Maria Azua

Do you have a LinkedIn page? Facebook? Do you use Twitter, and do you have a avatar in second life? Blogging, or use a wiki? Ever heard of Clouds, Open Software, or Jams? If the answers to all of these are yes, then you may recognize yourself and how you communicate when you read this book. But it will probably also give you new ideas and inspiration, and maybe get you thinking on how you use the new technology? And why you are using it, because it is not about technology, but about how you show more stay in touch with people and collaborate in all kinds of groups and networks.

If you haven’t used these new communication means, then also read on. The book will give you a brief introduction on these technologies, puts them in context, and there are examples how people and organisations are using them. It shows you lot’s of opportunities, and the value that the technology can deliver. But be warned, because the book also challenges ideas like “knowledge is power”, “protect your experts” and shows you that you can actually benefit by sharing and giving things away.

The book talks about the social age, using that term it puts the focus on the people, and how they can use communication technology to their benefit. It confirms what studies are also showing, that the new technology is not replacing traditional means of contact, but actually supporting them. People who intensively use social networking tools also communicate more directly, face to face and in groups. The new technology provides opportunities and helps them to establish contacts, prepare to meet, and have more effective meetings. And, it is also very interesting and fun to finally meet somebody in person that has similar interests as you, willing to share knowledge and experience; when that person happened to be in the neighbourhood!

What about business opportunities? The internet provides access to lot’s of information, and with the new technology it becomes a tool to quickly develop new products using open software and communities, innovate and adopt new technologies. Cloud computing and collaborations can help you to lower your IT costs, and get more out of your investment. The new technology also provides the means to market your products and services, and get feedback from your customers in all kinds of ways. Some may argue that things have not become easier with all the possibilities offered through the internet, and they are right. But the new communication technology provides great benefits, and that’s why people will use them; you can’t stop them. The best solution is to become aware of the risks, and learn how to use the technology in an effective and safe way.

If you want to catch up with all the new ways that people communicate and collaborate, and understand why they do it that way, this is the book for you. It is not about the technology, but about how people network and stay in touch with people, build communities, and collaborate in efficient ways. And how the new communication technology helps companies to deliver better products, and improve their relationship with their customers. show less