New Commons Partner - Web 2.0 Consultant
John Speck owns Real Advertising, a marketing consultancy based on the notion that markets are conversations. His work as a New Commons partner is to develop a systems method for creating shared knowledge networks. Part of this involves live documentation of New Commons workshops. The remainder involves application of blogs, wikis, discussion forums and other Internet technologies to manage information and extend the conversation.

New Commons project work includes wiki administration for the Northern RI TriCommunities Coalition and the Division of Statewide Planning, as well as consultation with leaders of the Environmental Justice project and the Coastal Resource Center's Aquidneck Coyote project.

"Speck," as friends call him, began his advertising career in 1993 writing copy at Providence agency Mariani, Hurley & Chandler. From 1995 to 2000 he helped build the legendary pro audio brand EAW through its trailblazing website and interactive communications. The original director of marketing at Mediaspace Solutions, he helped build both a web application and an enterprise system that remain the company's backbone. As a freelancer and, since 2005 as principal of Real Advertising, he has helped clients draw the shortest possible line between themselves and their market by telling stories that come from the heart of the company's culture.

On the Internet, Speck writes under the pseudonym Frymaster. In addition to the New Commons blog , he publishes The Bucket Blog about Pawtucket, RI. He is a frequent contributor to Urban Planet's Rhode Island discussion boards and information oriented blogs like Confused of Calcutta .

New Commons Academy Class

Web 2.0 - What is it? Why Do I Care? -- Everybody knows web 2 is important. But almost nobody knows what it is. Beyond the definition lies the bigger question: What does this mean for my organization? The short answer is: everything. This class helps you put this phenomenon into perspective. If you understand where web 2 came from, you'll understand why some organizations have so much trouble while others thrive. What are the dangers? What are the opportunities? You'll leave with real answers and a CD-ROM in case you forget.