Web 2.0?

We're getting more and more questions about this "Web 2.0 thing" (our techies are already discussing Web 3.0). You can read a thorough definition on wikipedia, but here is my simple explanation of the characteristics you should look for in any software application today:

• Ease of use (users only need an internet connection -no software to install);
• Low total cost of ownership without hidden fees for maintenance, hardware, or consultants;
• Users are encouraged to suggest improvements which are quickly implemented;
• Databases and applications that get richer with use; and
• Applications that interact with each other to serve you better.

Huh? To paraphrase Steve Matthiasson in his interview with the folks from Inertia Beverage, if we could apply the Web 2.0 concepts to the auto industry, we'd be able to order a car with "...the torque of a truck, the creature comforts of a minivan, and the fuel efficiency of a hybrid – on lease terms that let us trade-up every two weeks!"

web 2.0