ken_b - 6:33 pm on Aug 23, 2012 (gmt 0)

How many more years guys do you think people will be using websites in the current format? Will people still be getting information online in 10 years,

I'm not sure that we can reasonably define the format of the web today, much less into the future. It and the technology that powers it change too fast.

and will people still be using search engines?

Search might well change as time goes on, it almost has to in order to keep up with the changing role of the internet in peoples lives. Think coordinated fragmentation, or maybe creative chaos.

I ask because the internet world is pretty volatile and unpredictable which makes someone relying on it for their income risky.

I prefer to think of it as rapidly evolving, which is nothing new and will probably continue indefinitely.

I mean would people want to start an online business now if only to find the whole landscape has changed in 5 years?

Online or off, the business environment can and does change on a moments notice, sometimes faster. A large number of offline new businesses don't make it for 5 years.

I know adaptation is an important skills to have, but your average guy working form home needs a stable environment to plan and execute their business idea for the long term.

That guy might be better served looking for a 9 - 5. It's really no more stable, but at least the illusion is there to cling to.

I know there is a saying 'make hay while sun shines', but some predictability provides comfort.

Predictability is a parasite that sucks the life out of opportunity.

ken_b