Web 2.0
Despite the name, Web 2.0 is not a new version of the web - just another form of jargon to describe an emerging online phenomenon. Rather, Web 2.0 is a ‘second generation’ trend in web design and development combining new methodologies like AJAX and Animated JavaScript Libraries, social networking applications and communities to make the web more interactive, more collaborative and more efficient.
For a complete history of Web 2.0 (and a far more complete definition) we refer you to Wikipedia’s entry for Web 2.0
What does Web 2.0 look like?
From a technological standpoint, Web 2.0 sites typically rely on open platforms and API feeds to push and pull information from users and allow (as much as possible) a seamless end-to-end interaction with a website.
From and interactive standpoint, Web 2.0 sites use what info you submit to deliver value back to you and to other users. At least that’s the goal.
Examples of Web 2.0 sites
When you think of modern, interactive, second generation websites, you might think of:
- Facebook, MySpace and bebo: Great examples of interactive communities and designer application platforms tailored to user profiles and needs
- Amazon: The online book selling giant has been doing it right for a while with reader reviews (and user rating of those user reviews) and with ‘helpful’ up selling hints like: ‘customers who have ordered ‘x’ also ordered ‘y’ and ‘z’.
- Skype or Yahoo! Messenger and Windows Live Messenger: Online interactive voice and chat communication tools – that not only allow you to communicate with other users (in one-to-one or conference call/chat formats), but also let you send files and money… and much more!
- Wikipedia: The web’s user generated online encyclopedia!
- Digg, StumbleUpon, delicious: Social Bookmarking Sites / Applications allowing people to discover and share content from the web!
These are but a few examples of Web 2.0 in action. To learn more about Web 2.0, check out these useful links:
