ChapterTwo.The Connectivity Divide

Chapter Two. The Connectivity Divide

Let's start with a simple test. Draw a line under the last question to which you can answer yes.

Toddler	I sometimes receive postal mail. I have a home phone. I have cable TV at home (or satellite). My home phone is cordless. I use the Internet from home. I have at least one cell phone. I use e-mail for either work or family matters from home. I have high-speed Internet (cable or DSL) at home.
Crossing	I use instant messaging either at home or work. I sometimes work from home instead of going into the office. I carry my cell phone wherever I carry my wallet. I use text messaging (via cell or PDA). I usually pay (if necessary) at hotels for high-speed Internet access.
Connected	I could make use of an XML document if I wanted. I use a hybrid PDA (cell, e-mail, text services). I use "virtual office" groupware tools (document sharing, messaging). I sometimes work at 3:30 in the morning. I expect airports, campgrounds, rest stops, trains, buses, and planes to have WiFi service. Actually, I expect it absolutely everywhere. I sometimes make free voice calls over the Internet. I usually work from home and have given up my true office.

There is a dividing line between the truly connected members of our society and those who are not. The value of Inescapable Data technologies can only be realized by crossing the line. In 2005, most career-oriented adults fall somewhere between being connected newborns to having advanced to the toddler stage. Teens and twenty-somethings, the future workforce, are another story. They are showing their parents the way.