Competitive imperatives for the new e‐conomy

Looks at four key dimensions of evolving computer and communications technology: the visible dimension; the borderless dimension; the cyber dimension; and the dimension of high multiples. Recommends observing the different dimensions and their interactions. Employs a Figure showing migration towards a web‐shaped corporation. Reckons that the key implication for strategy is that companies must understand why platforms are becoming more prominent, and why platforms might collapse. Uses a second Figure showing acquisitions and minority investments that Cisco Systems has made since 1993.