Information Technology (IT) and Web 2.0

Information Technology

The objective of this study explain the advantages and disadvantages of cloud-based hosting and in-house hosting and to explain the factors that have made cloud computing possible today.

What is Web 2.0?

Web 2.0 is reported to be a "techno-culture term" that was first used in 2004. (Gil, 2014, p. 1) The term Web 2.0 is a term that describes the World Wide Web which has "now evolved into a provider of online software services." (Gil, 2014, p. 1) The original World Wide Web 1.0 is reported to have been "just a massive collection of static electronic brochures" however, since 2003 it is reported that the World Wide Web "has evolved into a provider of remote-access software." (Gil, 2014, p. 1) The World Wide Web is such that has become Web 2.0 or the "interactive Web." (Gil, 2014, p. 1) Web 2.0 offers a variety of interaction software including the following: (1) word processing; (2) online banking; (3) free web-based email; (4) spreadsheeting; (5) consignment and flea market trading such as eBay; (6) consumer goods price shopping; (7) processing of digital photos; (8) news feeds; (9) online radio; (10) video hosting; (11) geomatics and mapping services; (12) car and anti-theft tracking and gps; (12) home security surveillance; (13) dating and relationship services; (14) psychology and medical counseling; and (15) headhunting and executive job searching. (Gil, 2014, p. 1)

II. How Do Organizations Use Web 2.0?

McKinsey and Company reports a survey of 1,700 executives across the globe in an array of industries and areas of functions on their use of Web 2.0. The survey results state that 69% of respondents in the study "report that their companies have gained measurable benefits including more innovative products and services, more effective marketing, better access to knowledge, lower cost of doing business, and higher revenues." (McKinsey and Company, 2009, p. 1) In addition, the results of the survey include findings that successful companies "not only tightly integrate Web 2.0 technologies with the work flows of their employees but also create a "networked company," linking themselves with customers and suppliers through the use of Web 2.0 tools. Despite the current recession, respondents overwhelmingly say that they will continue to invest in Web 2.0." (McKinsey and Company, 2009, p. 1) The technologies of Web 2.0 are reported as a strong draw for an organization and Web 2.0 interactivity provides the ability to "bring more employees into daily contact at lower cost" (McKinsey and Company, 2009, p. 1) In addition, when Web 2.0 technologies are effectively utilized "they may also encourage participation in projects and idea sharing, thus deepening a company's pool of knowledge." (McKinsey and Company, 2009, p. 1) In addition, Web 2.0 technologies provide a broader "scope and scale to organizations as well, strengthening bonds with customers and improving communications with suppliers and outside partners." (McKinsey and Company, 2009, p. 1)