I admit it. I love the Internet. I think it goes way beyond a technical innovation. The Internet and its applications are the engines of a social revolution. However, that doesn’t mean that, as a potential driver, I wouldn’t like to know a little bit more about how they handle.

Think about getting a new car. Sure, you read that little stat sheet pasted to the window. It gives all those handy technical specs. And do you just make your choice off of which one is cheaper or gets the best MPG? No. You also read Consumer Reports, take a test drive, ask owners, and give it your personal inspection. You test it and then make your decision based on a wide range of data. Not just the specs.

Now about the Internet…

Google “measuring the Internet.” What you will get is tons of reports on bandwidths, capacity, and physical size. Precious little data on usage, behavior of users, or social impact. Everyone is looking at the sheet on the window; not many people are putting the net through its paces.

There are way more Web and Web 2.0 applications out there than models of cars. Yet, on average, we are eager to buy one out of the box and just drive, regardless if it is the best ride or not. It’s like buying that sporty two-seat convertible to shuttle your family of five.

A responsible organization involved in working with web-based media should provide a bit more evaluation when it comes to the power and impact of Web applications. I am not going to use a Web application for myself or on anyone’s behalf until I have checked it out against some carefully established criteria.

In my experience, the best practice is to meet with stakeholders, identify your users, develop a needs assessment, compare applications, and think strategically well in advance of any Web implementation. All of this provides valuable data to inform any decision you make.

Please, I beseech you on the part of other people traveling the Information Superhighway: Think before you drive!