Web 2.0 Lifehacks: Tools for Tomorrow

Web 2.0 is a term describing the use of web-related technologies that focus on improving user collaboration, fostering creativity and enabling the widespread sharing of information. Web sites that encourage members to contribute content and build social networks are embracing the spirit of Web 2.0.

A Lifehack is a technology-driven method for aggregating information and accelerating work flow. Not limited to newly developed technology, even ubiquitous devices used in innovative ways can qualify as a lifehack. For example, using a cell phone not only for voice and text, but beyond, to obtaining driving directions, looking up restaurant locations or writing a blog entry are all possible examples of lifehacks.

Web 2.0 applications are a natural platform on which to build lifehacks. As use of the internet spreads, so does the need for lifehack applications. Often the real usefulness of these tools is not immediately apparent. For example, Twitter is a micro-blogging tool that asks members one question: "What are You Doing?" Concise answers are posted via the web, email or text message. Following the daily routines of friends and family may not have much appeal, but instant access to the latest developments in an area of interest or to breaking news is very attractive. By choosing who to "follow" and whether their updates post only to the web or additionally to a mobile device gives people the means to control and customize specific flows of information.

Combining micro-blogging with a voice-to-text service like Jott further extends its usefulness. Members of Jott record short voice messages on a toll-free number, which are transcribed by computer and transmitted via email or text message to one or more recipients. This is useful for sending text to people while driving and using a hands-free device or communicating with the deaf or hard of hearing. Add the ability to "jott" a message to a micro-blog or an online calendar however, and a lifehack is born. Suddenly there is a new and easy way to capture thoughts and events as they unfold.

Friendfeed is a web-based service that aggregates updates from numerous other social network sites. As a member updates information on other sites, it is automatically published on Friendfeed, which in turn notifies any other members who are interested. The popularity and growth of this service is a testament to the growing use of Web 2.0 tools, in that a meta-tool is needed to easily track the ever-increasing flow of information.

Web 2.0 lifehack applications help people manage information and be more productive. They can facilitate more frequent communication among widely distributed friends and family members. Perhaps most exciting, these tools provide people with easier ways to transmit and store ideas and creative expressions as they happen. This removes potential obstacles between thought and action, allowing people to more freely create, share and collaborate with others.