Web 2.0 – The Internet Evolves
Every once in a while, technology takes a startling leap ahead. Call it an evolutionary “fast-forward.” Web 2.0 is such an event. It is basically changing all the rules as it relates to how people use the Net. But I’m getting ahead of myself. To understand this important change, you need to remember Web 1.0...
For the longest time, websites were nothing more than virtual billboards, online pamphlets for businesses. During the dot-com boom, companies paid designers huge sums to develop these colorful but static sites. Many of these sites still exist today, languishing and forgotten relics littering the information superhighway.
Recently, programmers have discovered ways to make sites more interactive, more dynamic. The sites operate more like a program than a “pamphlet.” We call these types of sites, Web 2.0 applications. To get an idea where the Web is going, take a look at my current favorites:
Google Maps
All of us have seen various mapping sites out there, but Google Maps was the first to add Web 2.0 features. Specifically, the ability to “grab” the map and move it, zooming with your scroll wheel, and “dragging” your route make this site extremely user friendly.
PhotoShop Express
Adobe has long been known as the leaders when it comes to photo manipulation. Their flagship product, PhotoShop is found on the computer of most graphic designers. Well, they’ve just released a beta of their FREE online version: PhotoShop Express. While it doesn’t have every feature that experts expect, it has the most commonly used features most amateur photographers use.
Kayak
I love this site. Basically, it is a travel site, but instead of giving you its own set of airfares, it actually searches all the big names in travel and gives you THEIR best deals. This site saves me a lot of time. You’ll notice the Web 2.0 features right away.
Zoho
If you don’t have Microsoft Office but need the same functionality, look no farther. This site pushes the limits of Web 2.0 by transforming your web browser into an office suite, complete with word processor, spreadsheet, database, and a host of other programs.
But Web 2.0 is not limited to “productivity apps.” Many entertainment companies are sitting up and taking notice of the exciting new opportunities the Internet has opened up.
Hulu
Hollywood has longed tried to figure out how to make a buck in cyberspace. Well, hulu.com is an exciting experiment. Basically, you can watch just about all NBC and Fox television shows, even past episodes, for free. The revenue stream is generated by non-skippable ads that appear during the broadcast.
Second Life
Redefining the online gaming world, this site is very similar to the PC-based Sims game. In the Sims you had no specific goals to achieve, no simple objectives, just the responsibility of taking care of an artificial person. Second life takes that concept to the next level by allowing you to interact in real-time with others all around the world. Be whomever (or whatever) you want in this alternate reality.
I’m very excited about the future of the Web. Newer, more interactive sites are being launched daily. You may never have to buy software again!
About the Author Kyle Reddoch is a Web Expert located in Amarillo, TX. Learn more about him at his website, KyleReddoch.com.
