The Net is a physical network of computers linked via telecommunications. Alternatively, it is a social space like any other; where systems, rules and communities emerge.
It is more abstract than familiar social forms. The Net is infi­ nite. When creating a new site it is made from nothing. An existing space is neither modified nor appropriated. Spaces can be as large or as numerous as conceivable, having no impact on the resource that is the Net. Space is invented; an abstract space disallowing fundamental social factors such as ownership and exchange.
The Net can be regarded not only as infinite in size but also in the form's it can take. It can be folded into impossible shapes simply by making connections from one point in eSpace to any other point in eSpace. Any potential connec­ tion is possible and allowable. A number of websites are now employing random address generators. When selecting such a hyperlink you are effectively jumping at random to another point in eSpace.
In a sense this makes little difference. The tools and techni­ ques available for creating websites, although rapidly deve­ loping, are still crude. This leads to sites appearing very simi­ lar. The Net takes on an homogeneous and conservative appearance.
Nevertheless, the past year has seen new standards. Exten­ sions to FITML (the scripting language for the web), VRML, JAVA and the current launch of Shockwave. The last two developments in particular, offering dynamic data transfer in computable form, suggest there will be rapid development allowing more diverse practices to emerge.
The problem of bandwidth will remain. Successful sites will address this in exciting ways. Simon Biggs. Ellipsis; KaapLand; Blam!; Jake Tilson; ParkBench; Fantastic Prayers; Floating Point Unit; SecurityLand; Body Space Memory