Now here's a vague question:

Where can I learn about some of the newer applications and features that can be installed on web sites these days?

You know, the cool things that can be done and the (business) benefits of such things. Can you recommend any websites or sources?

I'm a little out of the loop and would like to catch up. Surely we've gone further than the old days of guestbooks and 'refer a friend' links.

Skim through the popular contents of HotScripts (http://www.hotscripts.com). Explore scripts in the programming languages that you want to learn more about. That is what I would do to start.

Check out http://www.serverfiles.com - if you are looking for programs to install on a webserver.

Hot Scripts can be good but can be horrifically slow at times. You can also looking at http://www.scriptsearch.com or http://www.aspin.com if you lke ASP applications.

hotscripts.com

for all the suggestions. Now I have some reading to do! Cheers.