public(MIND)

Jacob just pointed me to a very interesting article at SilliconValleyWatcher.

It’s about IBM and their massive move into the blogosphere.

A question asked is – Will logging boost IBM’s revenues and reduce layoffs

I think yes – the main reason as I see it is:

1. People love to be communicated to as what they are – people.

2. People love to have the possibility to interact with people, not systems.

3. Many employees will love the dialogue, feel more committed having the opportunity to tell about their work – connecting with others interested in their job-function a.s.o.

4. Business will shorten product development time

5. Business will develop better products
6. Business will have HUGE PR, goodwill and a completely new “face”.

But they will also face some major problems – for example:

1. In the start there will be a lot of damage control because not every employee is born as natural blogging talents

2. While starting this massive stunt some employees will not see the same potential as you and I. It will be looked at as a time consuming activity not paying off.

3. We - as costumers - will in the beginning not understand what they are up to, what’s the clue? Am I cheated?

4. After a while is comes down to endurance – will IBM be able to maintain the motivation?

Well – that’s my 5 pence.

I wish IBM good luck and for the blogosphere I hope for their success.