The term Web 2.0 is all the rage, but it really doesn't provide much detail on what it really is. The Internet and associated web pages are in a constant state of evolution. The term Rich Internet Application (RIA) refers to a web page or application that provides the user with an experience that resembles applications running on their local computer. RIA is one aspect of the Web 2.0 evolution.
Another Web 2.0 example is something called a "Mashup". A mashup is a quick way of describing a web page or site that brings together information from multiple sources in a unique way that brings value to the web user. There are many examples of mashups out there. Perhaps the best examples are ones that display information on a map. Thanks to Google Maps and Microsoft Maps it has become easy to not only display a map but also display push-pins for specific locations along with interesting information about the locations. Think about trying to find a restaurant for dinner. Just enter in your desired area and a map can be displayed with push-pins showing possibilities and when you move your mouse to the push-pin the page displays information about the restaurant. Pretty cool and helpful for the user.
Not all mashups are created equal, and not all require the use of maps. In some cases the information that is displayed from the user is retrieved from multiple sources through the use of Web Services or other APIs. The use of web services or APIs typically requires some amount of programming knowledge or experience. I have created several mashups by combining the Amazon Web Services, eBay web services, and PriceRunner services to provide a valuable source of information to consumers.
Where to Start?
Create your own mashup is a great way to better understand what a mashup is. Where to start, however, depends on your level of technical skills. If you have some programming and web development skills, then the best place to start will be the web site ProgrammableWeb.com. That site has tons of information about mashups, published APIs from vendors and other web sites, examples of mashups, forums, and more. Even if you aren't interested in programming the site will provide you with some good information.
If you're looking for a non-technical start at mashups then head over to the Microsoft Popfly [http://www.popfly.com] web site. The Popfly site provides some good information on mashups and also allows you to create your own mashup without writing a single line of code! How cool is that?
Ultimately it doesn't matter where you start your quest for knowledge on mashups. What is important is that you get started somewhere. If you want to learn while I'm learning, then check out my blog.
Brad Salmon has over 18 years of experience designing and developing technology solutions. He continues to have a passion for technology and spends his spare time learning new technologies and how to apply them to add real value. Check out his blog at Flintvalley.com Also check out Zune and Zune Accessory Store for a mashup example. |
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