Social Media & Web 2.0 Defined
Many people think they know what the terms mean but do they really? Do YOU really know? Well if you don’t, you’re not alone. It seems as though people are living in a strange new ecosystem (but I like to call it a virtualsystem) full of innovative and highly disruptive applications where people tend to fear what they don’t understand. Seriously, even using the word “ecosystem” on something that is purely virtual; further proves this fear.
MMmmk so what is Social Media?
Social Media refers to activities, practices and behaviors among communities of people who gather online to share information, knowledge, and opinions via conversational venues such as blogs, message boards/forums, online communities such as Facebook, Twitter and Youtube. If you’ve ever left a comment on a website, asked a question online or watched a video posted with feedback, you’ve participated in social media.
And Web 2.0 is…?
Web 2.0 is somewhat a misnomer. It doesn’t refer to a actual version of the internet or World Wide Web. There really is no new physical version of the internet (hence why it’s a virtualsystem and not an ecosystem). Web 2.0 has 2 faces to it. The first is the technical side. This refers to the actual technology and innovation that inspires and powers the infrastructure and interfaces for the applications used on the web. It branches on the idealization of creating robust and comprehensive programs that are easy to use, intuitive, and interface-able. Many popular Web 2.0 sites have a developer’s API (Application Programming Interface) such as Youtube, Google Maps, Facebook, Twitter, and Flickr.
The other face of Web 2.0 is the visual presentation. The look, feel, and design. If you haven’t noticed, most sites typically look the same as far as the parts that make up the pages. There’s a Header, Fold, Footer, Sidebar, and Toolbar. Each part incorporates high quality images that follow publicly recognized design standards and aesthetics. There’s a high level of gradients, blurs, and 2D layering that give the perception of depth.
The Future
The web is evolving every day. And with each evolution it scares the pants off those who aren’t able to adapt and accept change. I urge you keep your eyes open for the next evolution of the web and prepare yourself for the changes to come.
About the Author
Cameron Tullos – Web Dev Expert
As a multimedia developer for 9+ years at major web & interactive studios in Columbus, OH, Cameron is well oriented to the inner working of agencies and Corporate America.
-Cam can slam a revolving door
