Friedman says that with advances in technology and communication, a new globalization has occurred that levels the economic playing fields for both advanced and emerging societies. He mentions certain so-called “flatteners” that push this flattening of the world’s economy. Here are some related to technology:
§ Web Browsing – anyone who can use a computer and has an Internet connection can use web browsers to easily interact with entities across the world, regardless of age or country. This allows for an entirely new marketplace and instant communication channels. This flattens the world because on the web, a single person can have the same presence as a multinational corporation, and entire firms can exist solely on the web.
§ Outsourcing & Offshoring – outsourcing allows firms to split their operations up and allow external sources to handle the processes to other firms. Offshoring puts business operations of a firm overseas where costs are lower. Combined with the boom in technology (fast data transfer and instant communication across the globe), this flattens the world because it spreads companies across the globe, and allows for emerging countries to excel because of cheaper workforces.
§ Web Searching – people across the globe can find cast information in a few milliseconds with a Google search. This involves people across the world in events and issues, as well as educates global societies with almost unlimited information.
Friedman is certainly a pioneer in technology and innovation. It was interesting to listen to him speak, after hearing so much about the book and reading exceprts and reviews, it is neat to see the man behind the message. On a more personal note, I appreciated how humble he is!
