CONVERGENCE & INTERNET 3.x Overview Convergence Intelligent Systems and Environment Next Generation Networks Next generation networks are considered strategic assets, but often described in narrow technological terms. Bear Stearns Equity Research team suggests in their definitive report, Internet Infrastructure & Services, that some are already using the next-generation networks of Internet 3.0: Internet 1.0 (1960's-1980's) The Personal computer and network was born. The creation of Internet protocol (IP) seeded growth of email and systems for publishing on the World Wide Web. Internet 2.0 (1990's) The Web era was established with proliferation of digital devices and fascination with communicating anything and everything over systems built using Internet Protocol (XoIP). Client servers, packet-moving routers, browsers, and ebusiness models were built around enterprise-centric systems and digitized products. Internet 3.0 (2000-) Value is now shifting towards standardization of meta language, such as XML, in software that weaves together resources and services for individuals in the dispersed but connected realm of universal connection: cross-platform multimedia communication. The emerging environment can still be described in the old engineering terms of computer power and network connections. Both develop through the integration and embedding of technology with a view towards ubiquitous computing and connection. But Internet 3.x provides a new context in which small investment can deliver better returns. Emphasis must be placed on the standardization of quality and process synchronization, both key dimensions of collaboration. Analysts at SalomonSmithBarny have described coming technology as The Birth of Collaborative Commerce. The valuable next move: From: > Towards: Proprietary and centralized communication systems > Open decentralized and edge-based systems Asymmetric interactions > Symmetric or dual forms of telecommunication Ownership of fixed capital and hard assets > Affiliations with and delivery of just-in-time service Quantitative concerns > Focus on the value of qualitative difference Serving central organizational goals and top-level minority interests > Enabling diverse interests and individuals anywhere, anytime An understanding of the working reality of Internet 3.x suggests that there is practical value in appreciating individual identity and creativity, and the fundamental strength of people-centered systems that enable participation, intelligent functions and informed relations. As conditions change, critical business decisions must be made at a healthy pace. EngineX  can help. Contact networks@enginex.com.   Key References Bear Stearns Web Structure of Internet 2.0 International Engineering Consortium (IEC)     (c) 1996-2002 EngineX. TOP . All Rights Reserved EngineX | Contact | EngineXNews  | Services  |  About Us  |  Terms of Use |  Join Us