Resources

There are so many resources to inform our choices and build knowledge about 21st century business practices. Here are a few I've found useful. I'll add to this list, as I discover more dependable and interesting studies, networks and experts.

Technology Links:

Digital Divide Network:

"There has always been a gap between those people and communities who can make effective use of information technology and those who cannot. Now, more than ever, unequal adoption of technology excludes many from reaping the fruits of the economy." Funded by multiple foundations, coordinated by the Benson Foundation, this site offers case studies, articles and a forum for researchers and practitioners. This is a core issue in technology development, marketing and corporate culture development. An excellent resource.

Women in Technology:

"Women in Technology is a not for profit organization serving the Washington, DC metropolitan region and nearly 900 members in the technology community with a networking and professional growth environment to develop relationships and create new opportunities." An excellent mix of small businesses, large businesses, new and established companies. Networking events, workshops, supportive services, plans for a database and other web connection opportunities.

Human Resource Links:

Storytelling in Business:

"Why is there a resurgence of interest among today's business and organizational leaders in the ancient art of storytelling at a time when electronic communications might seem to make it obsolete? Human beings have been communicating with each other through storytelling since we lived in caves and sat around campfires exchanging tales. What is new today about the art of telling stories is the purposeful use of narrative to achieve a practical outcome with an individual, a community, or an organization." This site includes links to the Smithsonian Associates talks on organizational storytelling in 2001 and 2003. Noted experts from corporations, universities and knowledge management consulting firms discuss this issue from many angles. Fascinating.

Business Networking on the Web:

Business Owners Idea Cafe:

"Small Business Ideas, Grants & Plans to Start & Run a Business." Informational articles, chats and newsletters that help small business owners develop a business plan, search for grants, share experiences and insights. It has a "hip" feel to it that makes the newslettters, linking and articles fun to read as well as informative.

Knowledge@Wharton

"In a world where markets change in nanoseconds, knowledge is a source of competitive advantage. Knowledge@Wharton is an Internet-based guide through this volatile environment." Articles about business research, marketing strategies, book reviews, and a really effective newsletter that often offers great new resources for me.

Good Website Building Resources:

Istock Photo:

"iStockphoto members buy/sell high resolution, royalty-free stock photos for just $1.50 or less each." Many remarkable photos, a variety of topics, graphics as well as photographic images. Well worth checking out.