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Most Web 2.0 sites offer one of two things: a place to goof off or a "virtual" version of a desktop application.
So for anyone looking for a site that promotes business productivity, I suggest checking out Sosius.com. This is one of the few sites I've found that actually offer an array of usable tools for the business environment.
First, the site functions as a virtual network, so users can send emails and files to each other, manage calendars, and even create databases. The site also supports a lot of features common to Web 2.0, including blogging, instant messaging, and RSS feeds.
Some storage capability is available, but space is capped at 200 megabytes. That's somewhat limiting considering some of the options that the site promises, such as picture storage or music streaming, but if you're willing to pay you can get additional storage.
That brings up the subscription services. While the site is officially in beta testing - Sosius has only been available to the public since late 2007 - it does provide phone support for its subscription users. There is even an online forum for its nonpaying customers. The company promises feedback within 24 hours.
For a beta site, Sosius seems to be well supported and fairly informative. That's all better, because while the site is very functional, it isn't very intuitive. Using the site's features, especially more advanced features such as email publishing, requires a certain amount of set up, but good documentation is provided throughout the site.
The site also provides fairly good security, which is a must if it hopes to attract business users. While physical security and privacy are often a concern on any website, Sosius provides SSL security and says that all data is stored in a secure database. That may not pass muster for some IT departments, but it's a start. Sosius will also encrypt all traffic to and from the website as part of its subscription services.
While the site offers a service that seems well thought out and decently executed, it remains to be seen if businesses will actually use it.
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