Business applications can allow people to deliver more value for less cost (time and money), which has a flow on effect to their clients' clients / end users.

Business applications can allow people to deliver more value for less cost (time and money), which has a flow on effect to their clients' clients / end users. I disagree that Web 2.0 social software is "merely a distraction". 1) Enhanced communication has substantial benefits, and 2) even glib developments can later form the basis for meaningful impact on lives - the telephone was probably a distraction at first, but where we would be without 911 ?