So much has changed within the industry - just by comparing last year to this. When we look back at the "Genesis Days" when things got started - we can see the patterns as they emerge and will realize that this is just another stage in our development. Already we can see the evolutionary process hit everyone - all the way from the big, big, big guy down to the little newbie dudes. Even though things are thinning out AND are getting tougher - I still think it's a good thing. Too many newbies were coming in asking for "money making map in a box" and were getting it. It used to be you could throw up a crappy site using Front Page and make a buck. Now - it's much harder to make that buck on the net and only the tough will survive.
It's what I've been saying all along - network with other successful or hard-working webmasters whenever possible, work even harder than you've ever worked before, never give up, never give in - and most of all: don't be afraid to try new things. Serge preached years ago that webmasters need to think "out of the box" and those who listened to him have gone on to try many new things, making their own successes as they paved the road toward new options for us all.
Survival of the fittest. This industry is still in its baby-hood. We've got many more millions to make. But we need to be more creative and work hard once again to get there.
Those who want to sit back and bitch - go ahead. Nice knowin' ya.
Those who want to work hard and be here to tell the tale - I'll see you at the next show.
I think 2003 will be a landmark year for comings and goings of industry "big names" and businesses. Those who can hang tough and weather the storm will reap the benefits in the end. It's not over folks - it's just changing.