Web 2.0 is the new front door into your busines. It is the second Internet generation and refers to user-generated content. It is about providing multiple interactive tools and resources for your audience to easily access and become engaged in both your business and other customers. 

Consumers are increasingly savvy about how they research products and services. They want their searches to be simple, with easy navigation and retrieval mechanisms. However, websites can no longer be only a brochure with stagnant pages. Consumers want real-time information, product/service reviews, easy-to-use features (shopping carts, message boards, customers reviews ...) and an overall memorable experience. They want Web 2.0.

Who's Doing It?

A new report by Forrester found that 70% of big businesses are viewing Web 2.0 as a priority for 2008 and expect to spend $4.6 billion by 2013. In a world of big business, what can the small businesses, associations and non-profits do to play in this field? It is not necessary to go full speed ahead and become the next guru like Blogger, Facebook, Netvibes, or Twitter. When used appropriately, Web 2.0 is helping small businesses:

• Improve cost-efficiencies
• Lower implementation costs 
• Increase productivity enhancements

For more about what Web 2.0 can do for your business, go to How Can Web 2.0 Help?.

What's the Difference Between Web 1.0 and Web 2.0? 

Web 1.0: It is a billboard ad about your business.

• Flat and passive pages
• No interaction
• Basic information
• Costly to update and maintain
• Not user-friendly

Web 2.0: It is a front door into your business.

• Engaging, dynamic and interactive tools
• Databases (research, documents, newsletters, customer information...)
• Reusable (green) pages and templates
• Searchable
• Easy to locate
• Forms (for orders, inquiries...)

For further information, we have additional pages where you can learn about Web 2.0 components and find out which ones are most appropriate in your industry.