|
Title:
Blown to Bits: how the new economics of information transforms strategy
Review:
Richness and reach - you couldn't have both before but you can now.
You can be niche and reach out to a large marketplace. Another bonus
is that most of the traditional principles of strategy still apply,
but the "objects" of strategy have changed, such as supply chains,
customer relationships and organisational structures.
This book confirms what all good information professionals already
know. We are living in a knowledge economy and this new economy is
turning traditional business models on their heads. When we picture
value and supply chains, we tend to visualise a linear flow of
physical activities. But it is information, in the broadest sense of
the word, that flows across these activities and binds them
together - the "glue".
But, the authors warn, that glue is beginning to melt. Even the most
stable of industries, the most focused of business models and
strongest of brands can be blown to bits by new information
technology. The fundamental cause is the explosion in connectivity
which is enabling the almost cost-free exchange of rich information.
That makes common business structures obsolete and competitive
advantage up for grabs.
The two authors, Evans & Wurster from The Boston Consulting Group,
give examples of several industries such as the newspaper industry,
retail banking and automotive retailing to demonstrate the impact
of these changes and how they are thriving amid the rapid expansion
of connectivity and the widespread acceptance of the technical
standards on the world wide web.
As an MBA and an ex-employee of a BCG competitor, I wanted to hate
this book, but it is well written, easy to read and
thought-provoking. To keep strategic thinkers happy it also includes
some complex diagrams and charts to help along the theory. Oh, and if
you are an information professional, the future has never been
brighter. You are no longer an intermediary, you are a "navigator"
and in a position of immense power. In case you didn't realise.
Free Pint Reviewer:
Lesley Robinson works for Free Pint on the business development team.
Purchase options:
Further reading:
Other reviews of Internet strategy books on the Free Pint bookshelf.
Readers Comments:
- Have you read this book?
- What did you think?
Let us know your thoughts and we'll post them above ...
| 
