WEs we like - Wednesday, December 10, 2008 4:32 - 6 Comments

You can Change the Web

If things go as planned, the Web won’t know what hit it once a new competition launches in January 2009.

Imagine Actions Everywhere. That is the catch phrase of the ambitious venture Change the Web 2009.

The competition, part of the Social Actions platform, aims at encouraging and promoting up-and-coming web applications that embed opportunities to make a difference on the umpteen websites, blogs, and social networks already existing on the Internet.

Far more than a brain-tickling challenge to the scores of technical wizards and digital activists roaming the Web, this contest has the capability of changing how the online community perceives the Web. It also holds the potential of unleashing (and sustaining) a massive wave of humanitarian action; ultimately shaping how the Web is used by its audience and maximizing the impact of social change campaigns.

The web applications that will stem from the competition will provide the necessary tools for each and every one of us surfing the Web day-in and day-out to add our voices to the expansive online community of do-gooders, collectively contributing on a daily basis to making the world a better place.

Picture this scenario: you’re browsing a page/website/blog on the Internet, and you’re automatically drawn in to a gut-wrenching story on the devastating effects of malaria in a village in Uganda.  Clearly, there’s an immediate need for help, and you want to do your part. Where do you start? Typically you would resort to a search on Google, spending considerable time combing through the countless aid organizations working in the area. Now imagine if beside the malaria article there was a web application that would automatically provide you with updated and concrete information (i.e. the latest urgent appeal campaigns on malaria) on how you can help. One click that swiftly leads to action.

That is one mighty concept to wrap our heads around. We, the Web’s loyal users, are granted a unique pass at revolutionizing the effect our online activities carry. That’s definitely one concept of WE to pay heed to.

Imagine You having the opportunity to change the Web – well, now you can!

[For those interested in lending their skills to help organize Change the Web 2009, please click here.]