A good example of the latter is a product called Netscape, which was released over the network last Autumn and in the space of weeks was in use at thousands of sites all over the world. For example, my local supplier notes that medical professionals are signing up, purely because of value of the drug information on the network. Investigative and research - consulting firm Gemini estimates that it now sources 15 per cent of information needed for client work from the Internet compared to only 1 per cent 18 months ago. As in other areas of innovation, some companies will reap rich rewards while others will lose millions.
Many challenges lie ahead, for both suppliers of services and users.
The suppliers are already addressing commonly perceived problems - those of the availability and reliability of the network infrastructure, security, and methods of payment. At least one commercial service provider has had to do a fundamental rethink of their strategy. For users, the challenges are more diverse. They need to assess how to use the net to achieve business objectives of reduced costs, improved products and services, and enhanced customer satisfaction. They need to learn how to exploit the unique capabilities on offer, to create new business opportunities.