The idea that the military has adopted Web 2.0 tools in their intelligence community doesn’t surprise me at all. In fact, I think it is a novel idea, as long as security can be maintained. Sensitivity, security, and speed must be in balance when it comes to this exclusive organization.

Obviously, the recent upswing in social networking through open online platforms cannot be ignored, as it is already taking over in the business world. Companies like Crocs and Bumgenius are using online sites, like Twitter to reach customers, market new products, and get immediate and uncensored feedback.

In case you haven’t heard, news on sites like Twitter and Facebook spreads like wildfire. As an avid tweeter, I can honestly say that there have even been quite a few times when I have learned of some breaking news stories on Twitter instead of my usual trusted news sources, like CNN or Fox News.

Now, with this speed of communication, also come consequences. Once something is said, it can rarely be taken back before someone else has already seen it and passed along the information. One typo, or under-thought-out comment, and it will become quite difficult to reverse the domino effect. There have also been times when false rumors have been spread as well, so the Web 2.0 world is not free of flaws.

Honestly, I think the advantages of Web 2.0 outweigh the disadvantages, and the military should embrace technology, but with an enforced code of ethics and proper protocol. Instantaneous collaboration is definitely essential to our military being able to keep up with the pace of a Web 2.0 world.

So, I have resurrected my blog from the dead for grad school purposes. Stay tuned for some, quite possibly, under stimulating posts!