As a resource, the World Wide Web (Web) contains huge amounts of
information. The Web is
extensive, relatively easy to access, and provides virtually
unlimited information. An excellent resource to gain knowledge,
the Web is leading the “information
revolution”. It has made a huge difference in the world,
and will continue to do so. When you need current information and
you need it now, there is no alternative.
Over the past 12 years I have been involved in technology research.
Originally,
I obtained software
information from printed reference
materials and then from CDs. The advent
of the Web as a research tool has greatly expanded
the availability of information while reducing the amount of time
needed on each task.
The majority of my time on the Web involves looking up technical
computer information, which I use for teaching Microsoft applications
classes and providing technical advice at work. Outside of work,
I really like following all aspects of the financial world, and
the Web has turned into a great resource for this hobby.
I can't imagine
being without it. Although it takes time to
sift through the multitude
of sources, I find that after years of use I can quickly analyze the search results to find the most appropriate site. The amount
of information on the Web is staggering,
so it is important to remember what it is you are searching for
and not get sidetracked.
The Web is a wonderful resource when you can substantiate
that the information provided is accurate
and true. Like any other resource, the Web has good and not so good
information to share. Depending on what you are looking for, you
have to judge for yourself how relevant
the material is for you. It is important not to believe everything
you read and to attempt to stay away from personal sites, and I
try to know who is responsible for the site before treating the
information as fact.
The more you use the Web, the more comfortable you get, and the
more likely you are to use it even more. The Web certainly helps
save time and allows you to focus resources in doing research and
seeking out useful information.
Overall,
the Web has given me the opportunity to be mary more times effective
at obtaining data.
If I find material but do not have time to read it, I print it out
and read it later or on the commuter
train. In addition, as I find things of interest, it takes only
a few seconds to share that information with my team members and
other professional associates. This enhances
my networking capability
to be in touch with many people with the same interest looking at
a particular subject.
The Web provides an excellent way to find information fast. It enables
users
to find research as it is occurring, rather than waiting for it
to be published. It also provides a highly collaborative
environment in which it is quick and easy to exchange ideas with
colleagues.
The Web is an excellent way to acquire
knowledge quickly and easily, visit company websites,
e-mail any questions you might have, research topics, conduct
surveys, participate in special interest discussions, and gather
information for further analysis
without having to be physically
present.
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