BWD Fall/Winter 2016-2017 | Page 22

22 BWD | Fall/Winter 2016-2017 Carpp’s Book Corner We are living in a dynamic time: As the pace of innovation gains momentum, every aspect of our lives is changing on a daily basis. Let’s explore four books that provide insights into the growth of the Information Age, as well as concepts that will influence our future. As always, good reading! The Fourth Industrial Revolution Klaus Schwab Schwab believes we are at the tipping point of the convergence of the physical, digital and biological trends fueling our next economic wave. He examines trends and their impact on the economy, businesses, government, society and the individual. This book captures the drivers behind the changes and offers a preview of where we are headed. Platform Revolution: How Networked Markets are Transforming the Economy and How to Make Them Work for You Geoffrey G. Parker, Marshall W. Van Alstyne and Sangeet Paul Choudary Jim Carpp, CISA/CIRM, CRISC Director of Rehmann Consulting The platform business model has catapulted Amazon, Google and Facebook to record heights and revitalized Apple and Microsoft. Companies across industries are harnessing the platform and leveraging the network effect to transform their businesses and dominate their markets. This book provides a roadmap to understanding the platform business model and using it to spur your own success. The Inevitable: Understanding the 12 Technological Forces That Will Shape Our Future Kevin Kelly Do not let the title of this book fool you: It is not about technology, but rather how we interact with the technological forces that are changing the world. Kelly has developed 12 themes that are intermingled, yet independently influential on our progress. Each one is a window into what shapes our daily experiences. If you are looking to broaden your perspective and glimpse into the future, this one is for you. Blockchain Revolution: How the Technology Behind Bitcoin is Changing Money, Business, and the World Don Tapscott and Alex Tapscott There is a lot of hype around the blockchain and how it is going to revolutionize our world. Tapscott and Tapscott explore its basic functionality, as well as how it can be leveraged to drive commerce going forward. We cannot predict the outcome; however, if the pundits are correct, the blockchain could be the foundation to a new business paradigm. It is time to get acquainted with this data structure and this book is a good place to get started.