Web 2.0 Trends: Widgets

Many main social media websites are saying the same things about social media trends; in summary, the best businesses will incorporate as many of them as possible into their marketing, advertising and overall strategies if they hope to improve in the coming year.  We're all aware by now how permanent the ever-changing world of social media is (you could even say that social media is a cultural trend), but perhaps less is widely known is what enables social media in the first place.

Web 2.0 - as opposed to Web 1.0 - was arguably the first step in getting the social media world where it is today.  Web 2.0 is not actually a new version of the World Wide Web, but a shift in the way the Internet is being used.  But, probably all you savvy business who are on top of the latest trends (as any good business would be) already knows this.

One of the important things to know about Web 2.0 is how it is affecting the technological advances related to social media trends, and thus, how it's affecting the way we conduct (better) business.  Although not new, one of the rising Web 2.0 trends is none other than the widget.  Named probably for its diversity and versatility, the widget is a vital appendage to any form of social media.  Technically, a widget is simply a small program that can be installed or embedded on a desktop, web page or mobile phone.  Those of you who have been blessed with Macs will note the widget screen when you move your mouse to whichever of the four corners triggers the dashboard.  You'll find your widget calculator, widget clock and widget calendar, with plenty of room to install more (such as a "word of the day" widget, or a weatherbug widget).

But, what's most interesting about these widgets is their use socially (at least, in terms of media use).  While delivering instant ads is a neat new(er) marketing tool, it's almost become mandatory if a business is to stay afloat in today's insanity-paced consumer culture.  What's even better (in terms of business - that is, marketing) is an interactive ad.  Imagine if you could engage your customers immediately by giving them a taste of your product or service right on the spot, at little to no cost to you.

In this way, widgets can be like little digital hour'd'oeuvres for customers.  What makes this Web 2.0-enabled technology such a strategic marketing ploy is that, if used correctly, businesses can develop micro-samples of what they have to offer, thereby asking a small but significant investment of time (and possibly self) of a potential customer.  And this, as we all know by now, increases a business' chances for customer loyalty - all because of a little widget.

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