By Britnee Nguyen
You might have heard about Google Wave through your social networks, but do you know what it is? Google Wave is a new search layout that was released by Google to invite-only users. These selected users are given a couple of invites to give out to others as well. While searching the web for information about it, I came across some criticism and praise. It sounds like it’s a confusing concept, yet has a “promising future”. So here’s some pros and cons about Google Wave.
PROS
• Google Wave was developed by the same guys who developed Google Maps. So there is some intuitive genius behind the new service.
• It allows you to filter Google search results and choose just news, maps, images, etc.• You can filter search results by using real-time results or choosing the range of time you want to see results (recent, last 24 hours, week or year).
• It modernizes e-mail by adding the features of chat, wikis, document collaboration.
• Chatting is in real time, meaning that while you type your IM, it is showing the other person what you’re writing, as you’re typing it. This is to improve the speed of communication on internet.
• You can start a “wave” and connect with other people with similar interests or who are attending the same event you are and collectively put in information about it.
CONS
• Chatting is in real time. I know I just listed this as a pro, but it can also be a con. Who really wants the other person to see exactly what you’re writing as you’re typing it? When I chat, I typically write and then go back and reword things and cut and paste and add smiley faces, etc. Or sometimes I write it, but then decide to delete it before pushing the enter key. I’m sure I’m not the only one who is like this.
• It seems like a re-invention of the internet, that’s not necessarily needed. They put so much into this application, that it’s confusing to the new user.
• Anyone can add you to their list of contacts without your permission. Result: SPAM
• No “Error” messages are given, which might confuse the user even more.
Now, remember that Google Wave is only in preview mode right now, so many of these things might be improved upon before officially launching. From a personal point of view, I don’t see the benefit of Google Wave, but from a business point of view, it opens another door for businesses to make more contacts and to reach more customers. It’s another internet marketing outlet that businesses should be testing out. It’s the best idea to try it out for yourself and see what it can do for you.