Sunday, August 31, 2008

Web 2.0

     I found this video particularly interesting, and watching it actually introduced me to the term and concept of Web 2.0.   The title Web 2.0: The Machine is Us/ing Us is a clever way to express the notion that while we feel that we use the web, its vast utility is actually reshaping the way people live.  
     Web 2.0 is the recognition of a "new" Internet, not in any technical sense, but in a way that is allowing people to interact through social-networking sites, podcasts, wikis, blogs, video feeds and the like.  The implications that new and faster "connect-ability" offers is astounding: people can find old friends, apply  for jobs, place ads, send entire files or portfolios, and even find a soulmate.  
     Once the web became known for its effectiveness, it molded the way software developers and web masters developed web pages.  No longer are our audiences bound by geographic barriers; Web 2.0 allows interconnectivity on a global scale.  Anyone with access can have their own web page, introducing them to the rest of the world.  Businesses that take advantage of the benefits that this "new" Internet can offer are able to operate on an elevated level.  Those that are currently part of the workforce must keep their business agile and flexible to adapt to the changing face of day to day operations, while those entering the workforce must anticipate the wide use of Web 2.0 applications in today's global community.  
     This is what Professor Wesch meant by "We need to rethink everything."  We must all consider the expanding of the web and its correlation with each and every aspect of our daily lives.

Sunday, August 24, 2008

Hello Class!

My name is Grant, and it is nice to meet all of you electronically! This is officially my first blog and I am taking a liking to it already. I posted a survey question on the side of this page about the Tiger football season if you would like to share your input. There is more about me there as well if you care to know. The picture I chose is of my dog Penny Lane, who is a Dalmatian/Pit-Bull mix. She is almost three years old and lives with me in Clemson. Here are some of my favorite shots of her:During the week in the evenings you can find me in the scoop shop (Ben&Jerry's) downtown. If you come in and I am there, mention to me that you are in my business writing class and I will give you a free scoop! This also applies to you, Professor Rogers. Now that is bribery at it's very best. I will try to make my blogs interesting, and my page easy on the eyes. I am looking forward to a great semester and to meeting all of you in person. See you in class!