On this episode we delve into the concept of digital permanence and the lifespan of websites. They discuss the recent decision by Google to discontinue certain website services, impacting businesses and users who relied on them. This leads to a broader conversation about the impermanence of digital platforms and the risks of relying on third-party services for important digital content. They touch on the closure of APIs by various platforms, including Twitter and Medium, and how these changes can affect users and developers. The panel also explores the concept of personal and business websites, questioning the necessity of their longevity and the importance of regularly updating web content to stay relevant. They discuss the idea of digital legacies, how to manage online presence posthumously, and the responsibility of handling someone’s digital assets. The conversation is both philosophical and practical, addressing the transient nature of the internet and the need for individuals and businesses to adapt to these changes.
00:00 Introduction
02:47 Google’s Discontinuation of Services
10:03 Impact of API Closures
16:18 Website Lifespan and Digital Impermanence
22:55 Managing Digital Legacies
29:30 The Future of Online Platforms
35:44 Adapting to Technological Changes
42:58 Conclusion and Outro
