The Internet has changed dramatically in size, character, and economic importance, but may not evolve further without careful measurement of its users. Until then, the lack of accurate and credible information about Internet users is likely to hinder the continued health and positive development of electronic commerce.
Predictor: Hoffman, Donna L.
Prediction, in context:In a 1994 article for Wired magazine, researchers Donna Hoffman and Thomas P. Novak, associate professors at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management, urge a new methodology for keeping track of how many folks are using the Internet. They write: ”We propose that an Internet Users Measurement Advisory Panel be formed to develop a set of protocols for the rigorous measurement of Internet users and their characteristics, including the larger group of individuals with any kind of network access. The focus should be on defining and estimating segments of usage based on customer need. We further recommend that the panel: be composed of experts in measurement and psychometrics, survey research methodology, marketing and consumer research, computer-mediated communications, public policy, and computer science; produce Internet-accessible protocols for peer and public review, comment, and criticism; be funded by a consortium of diverse interests including government and private industry; direct the execution of surveys based on the protocols on a regular (at a minimum, annual) basis … It is time to act. The Internet has changed dramatically in size, character, and economic importance, but may not evolve further without careful measurement of its users. Until then, the lack of accurate and credible information about Internet users is likely to hinder the continued health and positive development of electronic commerce.”
Date of prediction: January 1, 1994
Topic of prediction: Information Infrastructure
Subtopic: Number of Users
Name of publication: Wired
Title, headline, chapter name: Wanted: Net.Census
Quote Type: Direct quote
Page number or URL of document at time of study:
http://www.wired.com/wired/archive/2.11/hoffman.if_pr.html
This data was logged into the Elon/Pew Predictions Database by: Anderson, Janna Quitney