The year 2000 was an interesting footnote in the unfolding universe of the Internet. Search engines, peer-networking, Toys.com, everything everywhere, nothing but net. The new knowledge worker used a browser first, then launched a desktop application to communicate facts, figures, and information. Just seven years ago, Google users couldn’t dream of $480 a share, but the search features were getting better and better and changed the way search was performed. Lurking beneath ridiculous business models, and even more ridiculous stock evaluations, a battle was beginning to wage between proponents of the network and the opposing desktop crusaders. Seven years later, it’s our contention, at least when it comes to publishing on the Internet, that the network has earned it’s place, and as such, is here to stay. And Google, now a very respectable behemoth of Wall Street (or is it NASDAQ?) is making life just a little harder for that other behemoth of a company in Redmond, Washington.

Consider that today you can log on from your PC or laptop, create or log into an account with Google, get “Gmail,” their e-mail application, view documents and spreadsheets using “Docs & Spreadsheets,” or managed and edit photographs using “Picasa.” Nearly everything done yesteryear using desktop applications, requiring sometimes quirky installation procedures, can now be served to you on your web browser. Now, how cool is that? Not impressed? Well, then consider that Google also has a translator to view web pages in other languages, an instant messenger and call gadget named “Talk” and many more tools and gadgets to come. Still not impressed? Stay tuned, Google seems hell bent on gaining your patronage and clicks.

Try the “Pack,” a free collection of what they term “essential” software. It contains usable software as described above, but also contains additional software that is extremely useful, like “Adobe Reader 7,” “Ad-Aware” antispyware, and “Norton AntiVirus 2005.” How’s that for a package of tools and apps that you use and need everyday on the web? With downloads that help you talk for free, play video, and access to instant messaging, Google is positioning itself to provide ubiquity on the network. That means doing more whenever, wherever, on whatever device or platform you happen to fond of. So, we recommend a visit Google and explore the many wonders of productivity and gadgetry devised to tickle your productivity and connectivity. After checking it out for yourself, share with others you know. We’re confident that at least one or two of these online application will benefit someone.