Weighing Web 2.0

Web 2.0 tools are not a slam-dunk as program management helpers, so consider the following pitfalls before taking the plunge.

Pros

• Web 2.0 tools, such as wikis and blogs, open new channels of communication among team members.
• The tools allow many more people with good ideas to participate in the planning and review processes.
• They increase program visibility beyond the core team.

Cons

• The constant flow of information from Web 2.0 tools could distract managers and disrupt schedules.
• Although many tools are open source and therefore inexpensive or free, they still require an investment in training and education.
• There’s no easy way to measure the effectiveness of Web 2.0 tools, so demonstrating a specific return on investment will be difficult.