Have you heard about the Pew Internet study? I haven't read the full report but the overview published by the newswires is interesting and it definitely has me thinking about how to create technology that meets the needs for various types of Internet users (or non-users). The Pew Internet and American Life Project has observed from their phone interviews with 4,000 Americans that adults can be divided into three groups.
- Elite technology users - 31%
- Moderate technology users - 20%
- and others who have little or no usage of the Internet or cell phones
I'm sure many of us will read these categories as
- Kids (MySpace! Facebook! iPhone!)
- Parents (Email! 5 yr old phone with 120dB ringtone!)
- Grandparents (Where's my teeth!)
but that wouldn't be fair or accurate, would it?
Now here's where the study's results get really interesting. They further divide each of these groups into sub-categories. For example:
from Forbes.com (via the AP):
The
high-tech elites, for instance, are almost evenly split into:
- "Omnivores," who fully embrace technology and express themselves creatively through blogs and personal Web pages.
- "Connectors," who see the Internet and cell phones as communications tools.
- "Productivity enhancers," who consider technology as largely ways to better keep up with their jobs and daily lives.
- "Lackluster veterans," those who use technology frequently but aren't thrilled by it.
Notice what the common thread among all of the Elites is: social communication. I would be willing to bet that the reason the "Lackluster veterans" continue to frequently use technology is because of the need to stay in touch with people. Social connection will always drive innovation in technology.
It's probably safe to assume that if you're reading this blog you're a "high-tech elite". So does one of these sub-categories represent you? Which one and why? What are you needs as an Elite - what's missing? Drop me a comment. I'm sure it's no mystery which slot I drop into - "Omnivore". Munch munch munch :).
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