When discussing Google's
Wikis are collaborative Web-based applications that allow people to easily post, share, and update information. If you're familiar with Web-based encyclopedia Wikipedia, which allows anyone to write and edit entries, then you've got the idea. Amazon.com
The wiki concept is part and parcel of what some call Web 2.0 -- the Internet's evolution toward user-generated, easily shared content. Everybody from Yahoo!
It goes without saying that JotSpot philosophically fits well with some of Google's other Internet-based applications and services, such as Google Calendars, Google Spreadsheets, Writely, and Blogger. Meanwhile, JotSpot already has a formidable customer base. It consists mostly of business customers -- which makes sense, since wikis lend themselves well to business needs, where effective collaboration is a must -- although the company also caters to individuals and families. In another plus, JotSpot is already close to being profitable -- it provides not only free services but for-pay products as well.
Although financial details weren't revealed, one can only imagine that the price tag pales in comparison with what Google paid for YouTube. And we all know that Google has deep pockets through which it can acquire companies that will help it continue to evolve its mission.
Google has always made organizing the world's information and content the core of its mission, and snapping up JotSpot fits in with that mission. On the other hand, while Google may be the top dog in straight-up search, it's had a hard time gaining traction among Internet users with many of its ancillary products. There may be a lot to like about Google, and an acquisition like this one does make logical sense. However, there's a lot that remains to be seen when it comes to Google's wish to excel in non-search-related Internet areas.
Searching for related content? Look no further, Fool:
- Revisit Google's plan to snap up YouTube.
- Here's Google's latest quarter, and the nitty-gritty numbers.
- Read about Amazon's wikification.
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Alyce Lomax does not own shares of any of the companies mentioned. She is currently ranked 2,560th out of 11,909 in Motley Fool CAPS.