It's World Wide Web Day: How the world has evolved since its invention in 1989.
“World Wide Web, commonly known as the Web, was created by Sir Tim Berners-Lee in 1989. World Wide Web Day is celebrated on August 1 every year. It is a day dedicated to commemorating the birth of the World Wide Web (www) and recognising its impact on the world”
As a leading website design and development agency in Manchester, UK, we thought it was only right to commemorate this day by exploring how the World Wide Web and the internet has transformed the world since its invention.
But first, a quick clarification around the terms World Wide Web and internet as these are often confused. The internet is the networking infrastructure that connects devices together, while the World Wide Web is a way of accessing information through the medium of the internet.
Information access and connectivity
The World Wide Web revolutionised the way we access information. Prior to its invention, knowledge was confined to libraries, encyclopaedias, printed materials - and conversations! Today, we have a wealth of information at our fingertips, enabling us to learn about any topic with just a few clicks. This ease of access has empowered individuals, businesses and communities everywhere to make informed decisions and enhance their knowledge base.
E-commerce and online shopping
The advent of the internet gave birth to e-commerce, forever changing the way we shop. From small businesses to large retailers, online stores have become a vital part of the retail landscape. Consumers can now browse, compare prices and purchase products from the comfort of their homes, while businesses can reach a global audience without the need for physical High Street shops.
Social networking and communication
Social media platforms have revolutionised how we connect with friends, family and colleagues. Through platforms like Facebook, WhatsApp, and Instagram, people can stay updated on each other's lives, share experiences and foster a sense of community. Additionally, social media has transformed communication between businesses and their customers, providing an avenue for direct engagement and feedback.
Online banking and finance
The internet's impact on the financial sector cannot be overestimated. Online banking has made managing finances easier for individuals and businesses, allowing them to check balances, transfer funds, and pay invoices with convenience and security. Furthermore, the rise of digital wallets and online payment gateways has facilitated seamless transactions globally. Some of us here at PropertyStream actually know what a chequebook is, others don’t know how to spell it!
Distance learning and education
The internet has been a game-changer for education, making learning accessible to all. Online courses and e-learning platforms have empowered people to pursue their interests, upskill and earn certifications without traditional barriers. Additionally, educators can now reach a global audience, fostering a diverse and enriched learning environment.
Remote working and freelancing
The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the importance of the internet and 24/7 connectivity to enable remote working. Whilst many digital agencies like us at PropertyStream already had excellent remote working processes in place, other businesses in Manchester and across the country quickly adapted to the new normal. Virtual meetings, cloud-based collaboration tools and project management platforms became essential overnight and the whole world became used to a new nuance of the internet - it was called Zoom. Arguably, this shift also gave rise to, or certainly accentuated the growth of, the gig economy, providing freelancers with opportunities to work for clients worldwide.
Entertainment and streaming
The internet has completely transformed the entertainment industry. Streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime and Spotify have become primary sources of entertainment offering a vast library of films, programmes and music. This has revolutionised how we consume media, allowing us to enjoy content on-demand. Most millennials do not watch TV in real time, but rather use technology and streaming providers to fit around their own time-table and lifestyle.
Rise of websites
Of course, with the world wide web came digital transformation on a massive scale with a need for online profiles for every business and organisation in the form of websites. A well designed and built website is essential for every business to present their brand, business, products and services to audiences. As the first point of contact, a website needs to act as an information source as well as a brand awareness and lead generating platform, representative of the business or organisation in question. PropertyStream is the most awarded website providers in the property industry and we've been supporting property clients with web design and web development for 10 years. We are part of Manchester based digital agency 22Group who provide website, branding and marketing services across multiple industries including FinanceStream who work with website clients in the finance sector.
Digital marketing and consumer behaviour
Our digital-first economy has resulted in an unprecedented shift in marketing and consumer behaviour, including how consumers search for products and services. This has given rise to the many spheres of digital marketing such as SEO, paid online advertising and social media marketing. These disciplines are all associated with website performance and integral aspects of brand awareness and lead generating marketing campaigns. We offer all these services at PropertyStream, 22Group and FinanceStream.
In summary...
So, on the day marked as World Wide Web Day, we pause to recognise that the internet has certainly shaped the world we live in today. From providing access to information to transforming how we shop, communicate and work, there are many things to be incredibly grateful for. Of course, as with all inventions, the 24/7 connected world has drawbacks too, but that’s for another day, and another blog.
As a Manchester based website design and marketing agency specialising in estate agent websites, here at PropertyStream we look forward to embracing the future of the internet, the continued advancement and development of website technologies and how we use these to help businesses, including estate agents, thrive in the ever-evolving digital landscape.
Happy World Wide Web Day!