Many companies today are accelerating Web 2.0 projects in an effort to better engage with their customers, build brand and offer alternate channels for information. Unfortunately, paper-based specifications for these projects are hard to understand for business people and without expensive coded prototypes, there’s no way to test Web 2.0 style websites with consumers before they’re built.

Getting consensus on business needs takes much longer than expected, delaying Web 2.0 initiatives. Rework and change orders later in the process not only delay the project further, but add to cost overruns. And adoption is put at risk, since customer experience is not tested until after the site goes live. Getting Web 2.0 sites to market late gives competitors a head start on building community and brand, damaging business plans.

Use iRise to visualize the Web 2.0 site early in the process. Using iRise in a rapid, iterative definition cycle with business and technical stakeholders leads to faster agreement on what to build. The same visualization can be used to quickly test new interfaces directly with customers, moving the usability function to the front of the process. Rework and change orders are eliminated because everyone has fully experienced the application even before it’s built. Your Web 2.0 site goes live early, accelerating opportunities to build community and brand value.