I got a Google Wave invite last week (sorry, they gave me 8 invites and they’re gone) and I’ve been playing around on it a little – thanks, Sasha. My immediate reaction: I don’t see much use on a personal level, but where it can really shine is for business usage.
As it stands now, and it’s only in Beta, Wave is a pretty neat concept. But that’s where it ends. It’s cool that I can have a real-time conversation with someone (think instant messenger, but the ability to watch the other person(s) type), but it doesn’t really add anything that other communicating tools don’t have. As of now, the most useful tool within Wave, at least for me, is the ability to send files to others. This will be discussed further, as I have a few concerns.
Additionally, you have the ability to start group discussions, you can post “yes/no/maybe” polls, you can add maps and you can import an itinerary. All are neat, but nothing that will make Wave become a truly useful tool.
I’ll finish with two things – one is a concern, the other is what I think will make Wave a true innovation.
First, my major concern/question right now about Wave – the ability to share files. I had a Wave going with one of my contacts and we were playing around with the different features when they uploaded a MP3. I clicked the file and it allowed me to open via iTunes or save to my computer. So, I downloaded the file to my desktop. Essentially, a MP3 that my friend purchased on iTunes was transferred to my computer without me having to purchase anything. How will this look for the music industry? Is this considered illegal file sharing? As of now, one user could download a pirated movie and transfer it to their contacts. One contact could purchase an album from iTunes and share it with all their contacts. Am I making this into a bigger issue than it is?
Finally, where I see Wave making its impact. As Wave improves and developers come out with useful tools and gadgets, I really see Wave as a business collaboration tool. It has the ability for co-workers in different offices, cities and countries to form a discussion group and collaborate on various projects. What if you were able to upload Google Docs to Wave? What if you could upload a PDF, a spreadsheet, an excel form and share it within a designated Wave? What if your sales department created a Wave and left updates on products, shared tips? What if there was an internal Wave for FAQs?
From a PR standpoint, I look at this tool and imagine being able to connect with a client and share updates throughout various campaigns and projects. I see it as a way to counsel a brand spokesperson. Why not use Wave to test out ideas and get insider feedback? What about using it for a focus-group and upload a 15-second commercial?
In my opinion, as it stands it doesn’t have much personal use. However, looking at the business side of its use, I think Wave has the ability to really be a game changer and be a powerful collaboration platform.
What are your thoughts?
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