ABSTRACT
The impact of technology has been discussed throughout this text begin ning with an analysis of the digital age (see chap. 1). Networks, the way we connect, "have reshaped our world over the past two centuries-rail roads, highways, airports, oil and gas pipelines, TV broadcasting, the electric power grid, and, of course, global telecommunications." Since 1995, more than "200 million people have plugged computers into the Net, by far the fastest spread of a new communications technology ever" (Schlender, 2000, p. 90). In many places, a new kind of workplace that is dispersed, flexible, and people centered is emerging as a result of new communication technologies. Companies are installing chief information officers (CIO), who ensure that the organization uses information technology in ways that help its workforce develop the best competitive advantages (Gates, 1999). Globally, expertise can travel digitally so the experts do not have to.
