What is Web 2.0?

Web 2.0, for those involved in the online world, implies the second generation of internet use. The first generation of the internet (Web 1.0) relied heavily on static web pages, but with time, these static pages have developed into more dynamic platforms which better engage or interact with users. This new generation of websites and functionality is referred to as Web 2.0.

Aspects of Web 2.0

O’Reilly Media is said to have coined the phrase, Web 2.0, in 2004 with a series of conferences on the developing websites that emphasize sharing and communication between users. The phrase stuck and is often used as a buzz word among the online marketing community.

According to Tim O’Reilly, it is easiest to define Web 2.0 by offering examples of companies and websites already embodying the critical aspects. O’Reilly has four levels of compatibility with this new generation of internet.

Level 3 applications can exist only on the internet. These are the best examples of Web 2.0 and gain in effectiveness with increasing numbers of users. He offered the examples of ebay.com, craigslist.com, Wikipedia.org, and Adsense. 

Level 2 applications have serious advantages to operating online, but could function adequately offline. Flickr.com is a prime example of this level.

Level 1 applications are available both offline and online, but have additional features available by appearing online. iTunes and Google Docs and Spreadsheets are examples.

Level 0 applications can function just as well completely offline. Mapquest and Google Maps would be included in this category.

Of course there are infinite more examples of all levels of compatibility with Web 2.0. With new websites emerging daily, there are certain features that increase the communication aspect of each. Items that seem to contribute to the overall 2.0-ness of a website include a “networking as a platform” component which allows users to access applications through a browser, users contributing to and owning content on the website, and an interactive, rich interface.

Implications of Web 2.0

With Web 2.0 symbolizing the future of the internet, it seems logical that successful websites should consider integrating many of these same features. While it may not make sense to have users edit articles in the way a wiki does on a personal website, allowing comments or rating systems can make a difference in user interactivity.

With the phenomenal success of many of the leaders of Web 2.0, internet users are beginning to anticipate and even expect certain functionality on all websites. Static pages with few or no updates are a thing of the past. Successful websites of today are headed an entirely new direction.

Critics of Web 2.0

There are some critics of Web 2.0. These individuals claim the term is nothing more than a buzz word created to remove the stigma of the dot.com bust. Others feel websites use the term too loosely to have any real value, much like the old term “synergy.” Regardless of the critiques of the term or usage, the concept of a changed internet is not heavily debated. It is easy to see the direction the internet is taking, and prudent webmasters are beginning to follow the trend.

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