Web 2.0 Sci-Mate

To support Socio-Technical Innovation I have selected a Web 2.0 tool called Sci-Mate. This tool is designed to allow for the open publication of thoughts and ideas in the form of open access publications. Additional function includes the ability to quickly disseminate information for review and comment as well as manage market content for easy reference or bookmarking.

An added feature is the tools can be configured to record all publishing data to include date, time, author, and IP address that the item originated. The owner can configure licenses or limit reviewers.

Wanted to look at a prediction by a futurist that to this point got it wrong. Let’s take the flying car for example. Some years ago it was predicted that cars that had the capability of flight would be the next replacement for the common car. For a short time in the late 70’s and early 80’s communities were built with private runways and garages to accommodate their soon to be available car-plane however they still remain empty. The technological advances and affordability never allowed for the creation of a car-plane to be anything more than a vision.

But with ever good futuristic idea comes the resurgence of the concept. As with this idea there is a new push to make this happen with a prototype that taught affordability and convince with a refundable deposit available.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xo0MEQSGW8w&feature=player_embedded

Will this new resurgence take hold or will it find a resting place next to the original futuristic idea. The major points of failure that are likely to repeat themselves are of course cost. The cost of the car-plane as well as storage fuel and the time/money to obtain a license will most likely be the demise. Technology may also play a factor as the development of lighter stronger materials is available to make the car-plane a viable form of transportation the general societal acceptance is not at a level to allow success.

Tom P.