Evolved from the age-old concept of matchmaking and blind date, online dating has progressed both quantitatively and qualitatively over the years, and is destined to continue to do so for years to come. Whereas online dating originated as nothing more than scanning names and pictures of singles, popular websites such as MySpace and Friendster have demonstrated how features such as searchable databases, personalized pages, and blogs can benefit those searching for love online.

There are other dating alternatives out there besides online dating, such as speed dating, being setup in a blind date by friends/relatives, or simply just meeting people in a bar/club. However, because online dating is so convenient and easy to use it has become one of the most popular matchmaking services. Clearly, online dating has come a long way since its inception. What else can we expect from the industry as technology continues to advance?

- Improved accountability - As the online dating industry expands and improves, we will see fewer instances of members not being who they claim to be. A large factor is due to the fact that online dating sites are beginning to understand the necessity of performing background checks on their members. However, a growing trend toward instant messaging and other forms of communication can be observed. This trend is also predicted to turn to video and audio conversations online. Ideally, being able to talk face-to-face via webcam such as using speed dating and blind date service provided by 15minuteDate.com will weed out predators and encourage members to be more realistic about who they are.

- More mobility - People can now use cell phones to message friends, check email, and even browse the mobile web. It is also predicted that cell phones also will become another major method of online matchmaking.

- Better searchability - In recent years, websites with extensive and searchable databases have transformed online dating. Sites such as MySpace and Friendster allow members to fill out a profile, which other members can search to find people with compatible interests and lifestyles. This trend toward improved searchability will continue as technology and demand usher in new standards of online matchmaking. Thus, when users are matched online, they will less likely to be matched up in a random blind date.

- More personal interactions - Online dating sites are beginning to realize the importance of personalized interaction. The trend toward personal expression -- as evidenced in detailed online dating profiles, MySpace personal pages, and blogs -- will continue, allowing members to choose their dates more and more on the basis of compatibility.

It wasn't very long ago that most people expressed suspicion of online dating. Meeting people online posed a safety threat because they might not be who they said they were -- not to mention marked you as desperate in the eyes of many skeptics. However, as the Internet has become the basis for more and more personal, social, and business interactions, online dating has also become more acceptable -- and, as a necessity, more safe. It is predicted that these trends, triggered by technological advancements and the growing interest in online dating, will continue for many years to come. Who knows -- by the time your grandchildren are dating, perhaps online dating will be the standard, rather than the exception!

15minuteDate is a new concept in online matchmaking that combines the best of blind date and speed dating. By using the service, users will be matched up in a 15 minute blind date/speed dating session where they can meet their blind date face-to-face via webcam.