Web TwoPointOhhhhhhh!!

We're all aware of Generation "X", "Y" and there's the appearance of "Z" but whatever happened to Generation "W"? The Internet is an amazing piece of technology that allows us to be wherever and even whenever we desire in the comforts of our own home. From searching the historical ruins of Rome's Coliseum to traveling back in time to Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet. Whether we like it or not Generation "W" or Generation "Web 2.0" is taking over.

Definition
Web 2.0 first came to life in 2004 during a conference between O'Reilly and MediaLive International. It covers the social media programs on the Internet, which are devices that aid in socially connecting people all over the world. In the British Guardian newspaper, Stephen Fry describes Web 2.0 as:

"…an idea in people's heads rather than a reality. It’s actually an idea that the reciprocity between the user and the provider is what's emphasised. In other words, genuine interactivity, if you like, simply because people can upload as well as download."

Below is a few examples of the differences between Web 1.0 and 2.0:

Web 1.0 --> Web 2.0
DoubleClick --> Google AdSense
Britannica Online --> Wikipedia
personal websites --> blogging
optimization page views --> cost per click
content management systems --> wikis
directories (taxonomy) --> tagging

(O'Reilly, What is Web 2.0)

Examples
Popular examples of Web 2.0 programs include MySpace, Facebook and Wikipedia. These sites allow full interaction and control for users anywhere around the world. On MySpace, users are able to create their own profiles, upload their own photos and even blog - much like FaceBook, minus the blogging ability. These two site are social connectors allowing people to 'meet' and view profiles of people they know and even do not know. Wikipedia is the new Encyclopedia allowing anyone to be involved in information giving and editing.