Knowledge-based SMEs and SMBs (small fish) need to read "The Networked Enterprise (TNE) - competing for the future through Virtual Enterprise Networks (VENs)" with its numerous real examples and proven techniques to find out how to use VENs to develop strategic partnerships with BIG FISH (large enterprises) to propel them to the next level of competitive success. BIG FISH must also use TNE to gain enhanced access to innovation, agility and alternative risk/reward and cost models by partnering with small fish via VENs.

Buy it now from:
Amazon.Com
Amazon.Co.UK

Just over two years ago Nick Cater, writing for The Guardian Newspaper, Virtual communities can boost charities, suggested that Internet-based group tools offered charities and voluntary organisations an important new channel to re-energise the engagement with their staff, supporters and clients. He also noted that this could require significant investment in time and resources. It would be interesting to see how much, 2 years on, charities have exploited this opportunity?

Anyone serious about developing community, virtual or otherwise, should have a look at the excellent free resources at the Foundation for Community Encouragement originally established by Dr Scott Peck to help groups of all types work through the universal stages of community building.

Active Network report that earlier this year (June) Microsoft launched a free programme to enable communities to engage on-line, share experiences and, of course, talk to Microsoft about technology. The Hive is open to anyone who owns or leads a consumer group, blog, or community focused website with at least 50 members. As for the name, they felt that ‘bees were a good analogy for the idea of leaders coming together and cross-pollinating ideas and sharing information’. Any feedback or user experiences on The Hive?