Data mashups are applications that collect data from a variety of sources and compile it into one easy-to-use tool. With a data mashup, a company has the potential to increase traffic to its website because of the mashup. For example, a real estate agent might want to add a map mashup, which would allow prospective clients the ability to search for the location of houses on a map right on the realtor's website.

There are a number of ways a person can use data mashups on a website. Some types of mashups have specific names, such as photo mashups, which deal with photography. The main difference in a data mashup is that the information revolves around actual data and not some other form of media. Ways to use data mashups include:

1. Becoming a data mashups manufacturer and offering your services to clients wanting to integrate the technology.

2. Utilizing data mashups on your business website to increase traffic or to offer additional services.

3. Learning the technology to incorporate data mashups on your own website.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Make the most of data mashups with trainings and certifications

One of the fundamental aspects of data mashups is the ability to empower a business to offer service-oriented architecture (SOA) in its applications. Trainings and certifications help a freelance data mashups supplier gain credibility.

I recommend: ZapThink offers events, conferences and certifications for SOA. Consult its data mashups list of events to find the one that fits your career goals. SOALogix is a provider of SOA that includes data mashup capabilities. Its products, services and trainings can help you stay up to date in the industry.

Use data mashups online shopping to improve your website

The services and products offered by data mashups providers vary from company to company. Use the Internet to quickly find the companies that offer the data mashups products you need at a price you like.

I recommend: Serena Software offers products like pre-built mashups as well as services for data mashups. Its website includes a detailed section to help you understand mashups and the ways they can improve your business. InetSoft Technology offers a flash demo of its products.

Find software from a data mashups vendor

People with experience in website design may find it less expensive to purchase software that works with data mashups. Many companies offer freeware programs, which allow you more freedom over the coding if you know how to use the product. Use the software to create your own data mashups.

I recommend: Download Sun Microsystems' Open-DM-DS program from CollabNet and create your own data mashups without having to write all the code from scratch. DevGalaxy offers Data Mashup Integration from Apatar for download. Apatar offers this as a freeware product, which means you can download and use it without charge.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Many blogs offer free advice on how to create a server-side data mashup. The technology is constantly evolving, so look for current posts.