Few topics have excited so much interest for our profession in such a short time as Web 2.0.
There is currently a proliferation of articles and short conferences on the subject and a rising tide of interest. Yet a consideration of the discussion to date suggests that there is more heat than light. There is a deal of emphasis on illustrations, mainly from knowledge intensive, high-technology organisations, but little analysis.
In our view what is required now is:
- An understanding of the extent that Web 2.0 represents a new idea. Is it different?
- The development of a clear vocabulary and terminology
- A serious consideration of the potential for and drawbacks of the use of Web 2.0 in today’s organisations.
Accordingly, as a first step we have invited Professor Graeme Martin and the team from Glasgow University to prepare a discussion paper addressing the issues. This is attached and represents the first stage in a short project which is planned to conclude with the publication of a full Research Report by the end of 2008.
At all stages in the paper we would welcome your views and have established a discussion thread for this purpose. At various points is the paper there are questions with a link to the thread.
Please give us your ideas, feedback and opinion about Web 2.0