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There is no denying the great impact the Internet has had in people’s lives. Its effects are being felt all over the world, not just in terms of new technologies but its social impact as well. How people view and use the Internet is of particular concern to web masters, as the knowledge can help them formulate strategies or predict the next big trend.

The Pew Internet & American Life Project is one initiative that studies this powerful media. It is led by the Pew Research Center, a non-profit organization based in Washington DC. They produce reports that explore the impact of the Internet on families, communities, work and home, daily life, education, health care, and civic and political life. The project aims to be an authoritative source on the evolution of the internet through collection of data and analysis of real-world developments as they affect the virtual world.

Pew Internet conducts survey polls to examine various topics, and publishes reports on their website that are available to the public. Their research thrusts include Online Activities & Pursuits, Demographics, Internet Evolution, Technology & Media Use, Health, Family, Friends & Community, Major News Events, Public Policy, E-Gov & E-Policy, Education, and Work. In addition to these reports, PowerPoint presentations related to certain issues are provided for free download.

To appreciate the value these reports, bear in mind that similar studies by private consulting firms are sold for thousands of dollars each. With all the free resources Pew Internet offers, they rank up there along with Wikipedia as premier information depots.

Go to Pew Internet