The U.S. government has been engaging with social media, including YouTube, since 2009, when it signed Special Service Agreements with the major social networks to ensure compliance with federal terms and conditions. Also in 2009, YouTube unveiled its U.S. government video portal to showcase federal agency content.
Since that time, YouTube has played an increasingly important role in many federal agencies’ communications. While some agencies have experienced significant success using YouTube, others face challenges incorporating YouTube into their regular outreach efforts.