The authors cast their gaze on the many trends and ideas proffered by infoenthusiasts over the years, such as software agents, "still a long way from the predicted insertion into the woof and warp of ordinary life"; the electronic cottage that Alvin Toffler wrote about 20 years ago and has yet to be fully realized; and the rise of knowledge management and the challenges it faces trying to manage how people actually work and learn in the workplace. Their aim is not to pass judgment but to help remedy the tunnel vision that prevents technologists from seeing larger the social context that their ideas must ultimately inhabit. The Social Life of Information is a thoughtful and challenging read that belongs on the bookshelf of anyone trying to invent or make sense of the new world of information. --Harry C. Edwards
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The premise is practical and devoid of "change the world" promises. That very pragmatism, says Hagel, will drive enterprises to adopt it. In this book, he provides a clear view of the business implications of Web services: its distinct capabilities, its power to deliver near-term profits, and its potential to drive long-term growth.
Drawing from the experiences of pioneering adopters, Hagel shows how Web services will enable companies of all sizes to:
- Realize bottom-line savings quickly with modest investment
- Leverage investments in existing applications and create more flexibility
- Target specific areas for near-term cost reduction
- Establish-or leave-business relationships fluidly and inexpensively
- Create leveraged growth platforms for long-term competitiveness
A landmark book for CEOs, strategists, and IT managers, Out of the Box addresses near-term cost concerns and requirements for future success. As it discusses Web services, it provides deep insights into business strategy. At its core, this book tackles the most fundamental business issue facing managers today: how to continue to create value as competition intensifies. It also outlines innovative approaches to business process management and organization.
John Hagel III is a business consultant based in Silicon Valley, and is coauthor of two best-selling books, Net Gain and Net Worth. He has served as a senior executive with various technology companies and spent sixteen years as a Partner at McKinsey & Company, Inc.
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