IT Finds its Way with GPS
For every thing there is a season, and a time for every purpose under the heaven ….
or so states Ecclesiastes 3:1-8. For much of the world’s history time has been essential, In the world of business and government today time has become critical. In the discipline of business known as Information Technology time’s importance surpasses criticality. The GPS system and functions such as GPS asset tracking are built essentially on time. Time signals from the satellites determine the location on earth.
Samuel Smiles (1812-1904) in writing in Thrift noted there is
‘A place for everything, and everything in its place.’
So, what do all these quotes point to? Bit by bit business, world-wide business, is coming to realize that every business problem, every business process, every business opportunity has a element of “place” involved. Maps coupled with precision timing are what drives the power of place.
Jack Dangermond, founder and CEO of ESRI, the world’s leader in Geographic Information Systems is very fond of a phrase he coined:
The Power Of Place
Whether it’s GPS tracking company assets for efficiency, deciding on locations for new branches and divisions, allocating marketing funds to attain the most bang for the buck, selecting suppliers for maximum efficiency in shipping or even planning for business continuity in the event of disasters, business can no longer opt for the luxury of ignorance of place.
Dave’s advice of the day? If you’re a budding college student considering a business career, or a business executive thinking of going back to school for that MBA, or anyone thinking about a career change? Consider the role that “place” and the technicalities of “place”, GPS, GIS, overhead imagery, thematic mapping and all the other disciplines will affect your future. Don’t settle for study that concentrates on the balance sheet alone. Be the person who understands the power of place.