Ride the next Web wave

By Staff Writer for Integr8
Johannesburg, 30 Mar 2009

There is a growing trend among Internet users that gives new meaning to the phrase 'surfing the Web', says Robert Sussman, joint MD of Integr8 IT.

According to Sussman, Web 2.0 is the term used to describe what many ICT specialists are calling 'the second wave of the Internet'. It is an interactive, accessible and dynamic way of digital communication, which is being fuelled by the social networking advantages offered by the Internet.

“The trend is characterised by virtual access to back office applications from anywhere, which offers a new dynamic to the convenience of mobile, virtual interaction. It is taking the idea of 'hotspots' to a new level. This convenience and elevation from the traditional static Web presence is partly why the technology has found a place in the hearts and minds of the new age worker - employed people who have a choice of where and when to do business,” says Sussman.

The traditional 'nine-to-five' working hours no longer applies to the commercial landscape, he adds. Web 2.0 technologies are driving interaction and adding a new dimension to online socialising, through personalised Web sites and services like Facebook and YouTube. “It is interesting to note that while it has only been in operation for five years, the growth of Facebook equates to $100 million per percent,” says Sussman.

Some of the biggest issues within the industry workplace focus on productivity, cost to company and security. Mobile and wireless access to data, online interaction using the corporate network, and bandwidth is something of a conundrum for decision-makers today, Sussman says.

“On the one hand, there is the potential to generate business and advertise businesses and services beyond the geographic or logistic boundaries of the office complex. One the other, there is the very real risk that resources are abused or unnecessarily jeopardised.

Sussman notes that it's arguably a better strategy to embrace this new wave and adapt accordingly: “It has become necessary to seriously consider the implications of the general move towards centralised, managed services because this is where global markets are at present, and this is where we must focus if we are to keep up with innovation and leverage off the benefits.”