The Wave….You’re Not Missing Much (Yet!)

The last two weeks had a lot of buzz, much of it centered around Google Wave.  My Twitter stream was flooded with some people mentioning they got the invite and many more disappointed they are still waiting.  I never signed up to be on the initial list of invitees, but was fortunate to score an invite through a friend.  This particular friend isn’t a teacher, but spends a lot of time online and is well aware of what’s going on in the tech world.  When he told me he had invites and asked if I wanted one, I jumped at the chance.  I really didn’t have much of a clue about Google Wave, but since there was so much buzz, including apparent bids on eBay for an invite, I figured I might as well take advantage of the opportunity while I can.

By no means is this is post meant to be a full review of Google Wave.  I’m spent about an hour with it over the last few days.  I have yet to even watch Google’s video explanation.  I have, however, played around a little.  I spent time asking questions back and forth with Jen Wagner while we both discovered things for the first time.  Steve Dembo was online last night, and he showed me a few things GWave can do.  He’s been on the Wave for about a week and has had time to learn and discover.

I will eventually have more time to see what it has to offer, but below are 3 of my INITIAL reactions.  If you disagree with any of these, please tell me.  I’d like to make sure I understand the possibilities.

1.  It’s useless right now.  Okay, not useless, but until I get more contacts, I don’t see myself using it very much.  You cannot connect to non-Google Wave users through Google Wave.  In other words, if I’m using Google Wave, I can only connect with other Google Wave users.  Right now, I have 4 people in my contact list.  If my PLN was with me, I know I’d like it a lot more.

2. It’s not going to replace any other email program or IM program until EVERYONE you connect with joins you.  Right now, anyone with an email account can connect with you, regardless of whether they use GMail, Hotmail, YahooMail, a work email, or whatever.  Sure, there are a number of different IM clients available, but it seems easy to be able to toggle back and forth to meet your needs or to set up iChat or something else that will allow you to connect to a variety of chat clients.

3. The potential for collaboration is certainly there.  The ability to keep track of a conversation, add and edit in real time is going to be very useful – on a professional level.  I’m living in an elementary world and I don’t see this as an easy to use tool for elementary ages students.  Sure, some will be able to pick it up rather quickly, but for the most part, I think it will be challenging for younger students to use.

For those of you who feel left on the beach while some people are surfing, don’t fret.  I really don’t think you are missing much….yet.  As this gets refined and more users are on board, I can see the potential.  Until that time, don’t think you’re missing out on the good stuff because I really don’t think you are.