Full Disclosure

My name is Bill Irvine, I've been involved in user-generated and user-directed content online since the very-early days of dial-up BBS systems, CompuServe, and AOL forums. My involvement on this particular issue is multi-facted as the CEO of The Above Network, LLC, a former advertising executive, member of the Internet Advertising Bureau, and developer of early web technologies. Today, I'm fortunate enough to be one of the few people able to work hard and derive income from something that is a great personal passion for me: freedom of expression through user-generated content online.

This website, and the information contained, is for all those users and web site owners with a similar passion for the independent web. While it is essentially my personal project, the funding to make it happen is supplied by The Above Network, LLC.

We Really Do Need A Solution

I agree that it is likely that some level of legislative action will be required to ensure more online advertising networks operate ethically. While there has been no documented case of inappropriate privacy intrusion, far too many ad networks allow improper ads and malicious software to take a ride on the network and land on your computers. With the inherent distrust resulting from such irresponsibility, it's no wonder that draconian legislation is being considered.

But I believe that, once the users of the independent web are fully informed about this issue, there will be an overwhelming demand for a different solution than the virtual elimination of third-party ad networks.

While there are many web sites that some of us find will offensive, any site, regardless of content, that inspires people to participate in conversations is a valid piece of our complex online culture. All such sites must have at their disposal the means to grow, flourish, and realize revenue to fuel whatever future holds in store. We cannot remove the only viable source of revenue for those thousands of voices that make a difference every day.

Contact Me

You can contact me at with any questions, comments, disagreements, or ideas.