Connecting the Globe: Tim Berners-Lee’s invention of the World Wide Web marked a significant change in how we access and share information. He envisioned a decentralized system that would allow anyone, anywhere, to easily link to and access information. This concept, originally intended to enhance information sharing within CERN, the European particle physics laboratory, quickly evolved into a global phenomenon.

Berners-Lee was motivated by a desire to make information more accessible and to connect people in innovative ways. What stands out about the World Wide Web is that Berners-Lee not only created the technology but also made it available for free. He believed the web should be open and accessible to everyone, choosing not to patent his invention. This decision, rooted in a commitment to open access and collaboration, played a vital role in the web’s rapid expansion and widespread use.

It nurtured a culture of innovation and teamwork that continues to influence the internet today. Berners-Lee’s journey serves as a compelling example of how visionary ideas can have a profound impact and the significance of open access. It illustrates how one individual, motivated by a desire to make a difference, can create something that changes the lives of billions. For entrepreneurs, it underscores the potential of technology to connect people and the necessity of considering the broader social implications of their innovations. Often, the most significant advancements are those that are made freely available for the benefit of all.