The original internet was created in 1969 as a way to share information between 2 computer networks, one in the University of California and the second at the Stanford Research Institute.
Email was created in 1971 to share information.
By 1973, there were 40 computer networks connected to each other and the first cross-Atlantic connection was made with University College London.
The word “internet” simply meant connection – “inter-network” in its full sense.
There followed a very long wait until, in 1989, Tim Berners Lee proposed a “world-wide web” that would allow the transfer of hyper-text documents.
The first web page followed in 1991 and the first browser (Mosaic) in 1993.
1996 – Hotmail.
1998 – Google.
Boom!
And here we all are – connected globally and in real time.
We have all the information that we could ever need in our pockets and purses.
Information now is cheap, plentiful – there is, perhaps, too much of it?
The first phase of mankind’s journey on the web is complete.
The New Internet
We are now beginning a new journey – a new internet.
The new internet is about sharing experiences.
If you want an audience to react and respond (that can be an audience of patients or referring GDP’s) then you will have to share the experiences of your team, your patients and your existing referrers – have them share the way that you make a positive difference to their lives.
It is for that reason that video is becoming more important – patient testimonials, video treatment plans, virtual tours and team profiles.
Experience is unique, rare and priceless.
How people tell your story will be your most important marketing activity.
Who tells your story will define who you attract.
Back in 1969, the story is told that the first time those two computer networks connected, the system crashed as the “g” in “login” was typed.
Those in attendance persevered and changed the world forever.
They began the Information Revolution (to follow on from the Agricultural, Industrial and Technological Revolutions).
The Information Revolution is over.
The Experience Revolution begins.
Next?
Wearable technology.
Fibretronics.
Virtual and Managed Reality.
For now – experiences – tell stories.
