OpenID Will Let You Log-On To Multiple Sites with the Same Digital Identity

Originally developed in 2005, it has taken four years for the OpenID application protocol, even the concept, to take hold in the mainstream.  You are probably hearing the buzz about OpenID, Google Friend Connect or Facebook Connect and if you haven’t used one yet, it is only a matter of time.  And why not adopt a system which allows you to use the same login and password, or digital identity, for an unlimited number of websites or software systems?  Whether it is checking account balances, paying bills or simply commenting on a product or forum, having one master key as your gateway into dozens, if not hundreds of sites, certainly could simplify things.  Imagine going between the recently announced OpenID compatible sites of Kmart and Sears, without even logging in twice.  It is just around the corner.

What’s Driving OpenID?  The Fight for Your Online Friends

One of the reasons we’re seeing a dramatic increase in sites which offer these types of services is the result of a battle to acquire users between Google, Facebook, AIM/Yahoo, Twitter and others.  It is easy to understand why the virtual user-grab is taking place.  Where there’s a connection, there’s relevance, and where there’s relevance . . . advertising dollars.  Relevance between friends can play out any number of ways.  With Facebook Connect, a user can login to any equipped site and view the activities of their friends, such as ratings, reviews, wishlists, and recently viewed products.  Two-way messaging with friends from within retail or manufacturers’ sites can provide untold word-of-mouth marketing and personal endorsements.  Another practical application, where bringing your friends along for the ride enhances the experience, is in the presentation of live media.  During NASCAR races, fans can login and watch four on-track video streams while simultaneously chatting with the public, their Facebook friends or people they follow on Twitter. Continue Reading »