Indeed, many other members of the semantic Web community remain hopeful that semantic technology will revolutionize the Web -- eventually.

"Increasing user and data mobility, and the expansion of Internet services and digital data information into everyday life, are pushing us in the semantic direction," says Project10X's Davis. With the rapid proliferation of Web information sources whose provenance is questionable, he continues, "you're not just looking for a needle in a haystack -- you're looking for the right haystack. Semantics provides a critical means of separating the wheat from the chaff."

"When I mention semantic Web in tech circles, nine out of 10 don't know what the hell I'm talking about," Next Wave author Simon notes. "But do I believe in its power, and that it will be a game changer down the road? Absolutely."

Horwitt, a freelance reporter and former Computerworld senior editor, is based in Waban, Mass. Contact her at .