ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book explores through six inter-related themes, all conveniently starting with 'e'. It includes: Efficiency, Effectiveness, Engagement, Expression, E-work, and Experience. The challenge and re-invent many existing long-standing workplace conventions. These include basic aspects like office design and image, workplace status and symbolism, dependency on desks, use of alternative worksettings and locations, 'territorialism', use of paper, exploitation of technology and flexibility with time. A pivotal point in the evolution of business and the nature of work, enabled by technology and the Internet, as well as, importantly, our new values and expectations. They move from years of theory and speculation about the future to a new, perhaps unrecognisable, reality. Enlightened, networked individuals realise and embrace this change first; taking with them smaller, agile organisations. More established larger organisations will then need to embrace the changes or face decline as the speed of change becomes merciless.
