Fighting over Web 2.0 definitions
Nicholas Carr and Larry Lessig are arguing about the definition of web 2.0. I side with Larry on this debate. The values (primarily true sharing) of web 2.0 are of supreme importance, web 2.0 is not just about making money off someone’s free labour as Nick Carr implies. True sharing which enables users to move the content they create is a strong web 2.0 value.
The definition of web 2.0 is an evolving one. It is about values, remixing and new technologies that support the remixing by participants. You have to let go, to let your web 2.0 product grow. If you’re not willing to let go, ask yourself why exactly you’re building the web 2.0 product. Not everything has to be participatory and enhanced to allow remixing.
At the end of the day, as a manager, don’t spend too much time thinking about what web 2.0 is and what it isn’t. Don’t feel you have to create web 2.0 versions of all your websites, intranets or extranets. Instead think about the specific web 2.0 concepts that can help your business and implement those only. Start with a business case, understand your user needs and preferences, think through all the implications and build only what you truly require.
After all, there’s no use creating a web product that allows remixing if no one wants to share, is there?
