By this time, we've all heard the phrase "Web 2.0". It's a buzzword that basically describes the current state of the internet: Websites that are more simple, more useful, and more functional which seek to enhance our lives (and our ministries). But what if I told you that very soon (if it hasn't already) the time of Web 2.0 will pass. We'll be talking Web 3.0
3.0? Our Church doesn't even understand 2.0!
Unfortunately, falling behind the change-curve is the most prevalent and steadfast spiritual gift at many churches and ministries. (sorry, couldn't pass that one up) Churches are notoriously slow to adapt new technologies which is becoming a problem of greater and greater proportions due to the fact that adaption of new technologies by the mainstream is speeding up dramatically. We need to encourage our people to embrace technologies not solely because they're new, or hip, or useful...but because doing so will keep our churches relevant and engaged in the culture. Otherwise we become an outside voice that's just preaching to our choir and, unfortunately, that doesn't count as fulfilling The Great Commission.
Ok. So what's Web 3.0?
It wasn't long ago that Mustardseed started preaching benefits of Web 2.0 for churches. Web 2.0 allows your websites to become interactive and to become an enhancer of discussions, relationships, and the christian life in general. All of those aspects will remain, but an even bigger shift is on the horizon. Web 3.0 (as I personally call it) is defined by moving beyond the web. "How can a website move beyond the web?" you say? We're mobile people. As such, we're spending less and less time tied down behind a desktop computer in an office to get things done. We're now using our phones (or other portable devices) as our preferred method of getting information. Apple knows this and is leading the way with it's new iPhone. Google knows this and is developing it's own mobile platform in addition to starting services like Goog411. It's no secret that in a handfull of years, websites may still exist...but they won't be the primary way that people will be seeking information. What does this mean for your church? It means that you need to start thinking outside the web NOW. You need to start thinking about some different ways that people will access your church data (from simple things like worship times and directions to complex interactions with your website) when Web 3.0 takes over. We need to think ahead when building our websites and planning our communication strategies if we want to stay relevant when this next shift happens.
Getting Your Feet Wet
Want to see Web 2.5 in action? (I call it 2.5 because I see it as the emerging development on the 3.0 technology and mentality..but it's not quite there yet) Check out sites like Brightkite, Jott and Yahoo's FireEagle, start planning for your website to be accessible to current and next gen phones, and start talking with people in your church and ask them how they're preparing to do ministry in a world of Web 3.0.
