What is Web 2.0?

This is a general term meant to encompass a whole range of technologies, styles and social changes.

There is no one clear definition, but essentially it means a move away from boring looking, unchanging web sites of the nineties and early 2000’s to more dynamic, application-style web sites.

This means sites which are more interactive, responsive, usable and better looking. These sites generally have a “social” component to them too, meaning they provide some way for the site’s users to interact with each other; rather than just the owner of the site.

What does this mean for my business?

Web 2.0 sites allow your customers or audience to engage better with you and with each other. They build a community around your site and therefore are more engaged with your business and return to your site more.

They provide feedback and suggestions to you and to each other, hopefully creating more hype in the process.
The flip side is they are also quick to provide criticism and negative feedback if you upset or ignore them.

What are the technology changes?

One core technology is driving Web 2.0 called AJAX (Asynchronous Javascript And XML) which means your web browser can make requests to the web server in the background which update what is displayed dynamically.
The aggregate effect is a smoother, more engaging experience. Rather than old click-wait-load-view paradigm, now transitions seem more fluid and less clunky.

What are the design changes?

Web design has progressed massively and web browsers have developed significantly over the last decade. Site can now be more animated and graphics-rich as bandwidth increases.
Advances in the use of Javascript means sites can be animated with various effects which are compelling and captivating for their audience.

Please get in touch to discuss how Arctic Kiwi applies these social and technological changes to improve the effectiveness of your website.