E-commerce Hosting and Web 2.0

The phenomenon that is Web 2.0 has made its mark, originating in social networking platforms and evolving through traditional business applications. Because it has become more widespread, web hosting providers are increasingly customizing their offerings to meet the demands of this trend. This allows customers to benefit from a dynamic set of features that enable websites to thrive in the world of Web 2.0.

What is Web 2.0?

Web 2.0 can be described as a trend that revolves around using interactive, community-driven sites to promote the sharing of information, networking and other forms of collaboration among users. Some of the most common examples of this activity are blogs and wikis along with social bookmarking sites like Digg and Reddit. Thanks to Web 2.0, the customers are now able to interact with the business and actually play a significant role in the company’s successes. This new wave of web interaction is quickly replacing the dull, static website of past times. These days, users can interact with the website content and get involved in ways that were not possible before. By allowing the customers to play an active role, your business will gain trust, popularity and most importantly, credibility in the eyes of your audience. The web has changed and this is now one of the essential keys to succeeding.

You may be familiar with Web 2.0 and not even realize it. In fact, popular sites like eBay and Facebook are perfect examples. Ebay has its detailed feedback report while Facebook offers many web-based applications that allow profile users to get hands-on with the site. These large, dynamic websites are powered by e-commerce hosting services, thriving off the same features and administrative tools that can be used to bridge the gap between you and your customers.

The Role of E-commerce Hosting

Here are some of the Web 2.0 features you will find in an e-commerce hosting solution:

Free Blogging Applications – Blogs can be considered as some of the Web 2.0 pioneers and many web hosting providers offer these applications free of charge. WordPress is one of several blogging programs that functions well in the business environment. These platforms are generally easy to use and very friendly in the eyes of the search engines.

Multimedia Support – Internet gurus are raving about how effective video marketing has become. With support for multimedia technologies such as Flash and Silverlight, you can incorporate rich features that enhance the experience for your visitors.

Social Networking Tools – Social networking is the core of Web 2.0. E-commerce hosting features such as chat scripts and bulletin boards will give you the power to create a community environment that makes your site the place to be.

Why Jump on the Bandwagon?

The internet is driven by Web 2.0 and if you don’t catch on, your business could get left behind. Many have found that this is the most effective way to establish and strengthen brand recognition and keep existing customers around as well. There are many ways to approach this trend and as long as you stick with the program, you can make your business a success.