The Growing Importance of e-Communities on the Web

Abstract

Until recently, one of the main aims of the World Wide Web has been to offer users a wide range of information. This information was authored, by and large, by professional information providers. Recent advancements on the Internet, however, have changed this paradigm and the clear distinction between information producers and consumers is becoming blurred. New technologies such as weblogs, wikis, file sharing services, podcasting and social networks allow users to become an active part on the Web and let them participate in developing content.

In this chapter, an overview of several successful community-based concepts and services is given. The fact that many of these concepts have existed before is pointed out together with true novelties of their current implementations. Moreover, a critical view of recent communities, their importance and impact is presented. Especially the potential loss of individuality and the movement towards an“integrated society”with a common shared memory is discussed. We also venture to look at the future development of e-Communities in the light of ubiquitous access to information with technologies such as“always-on”wearable cameras and E-Ink.