Manufacturing Transformation: Reed's Law and Self-Forming Groups

Manufacturers must evolve into a new model of networking and collaboration if they are to succeed in today's business environment, according to David Smith, Vice President, Technology Futures, Inc. (TFI). Technology changes are now being guided by Reed's Law and self-forming groups. A key point is that these communicators are not just groups of people anymore, but devices communicating with devices. The new model connects research labs, free agents, academia, and new markets. The manufacturing sector cannot miss out on this change if it hopes to thrive in the emerging business economy.

Austin, TX (PRWEB) November 29, 2006 -- Manufacturers must evolve into a new model of networking and collaboration if they are to succeed in today's business environment, according to David Smith, Vice President, Technology Futures, Inc. (TFI). Technology changes are now being guided by Reed's Law. Under this law, when a network allows users to form groups, the utility of large networks, particularly social networks, can scale exponentially with the size of the networks. These groups are self-formed through communications via the Internet, electronic devices, or other innovative methods. A key point is that these communicators are not just groups of people anymore, but devices communicating with devices. The fundamental shift in manufacturing and other industries is Reed's Law and self-forming groups. The new model connects research labs, free agents, academia, and new markets. The manufacturing sector cannot miss out on this change if it hopes to thrive in the emerging business economy.

To find out more about Mr. Smith's work in this area, please see his recent article, "Globalization Transformation" at http://www.tfi.com/pubs/w/pdf/TennessBus-8-06-Smith-Skelley.pdf.

He would be happy to give input toward stories on the changes occurring in manufacturing. He would also be glad to speak with you about possibly working with you or for you in writing an article on the subject.

Mr. Smith has been actively involved in technology management and forecasting for more than 30 years. Since joining TFI in 1996, he has assisted in creating and implementing plans for such organizations as Boeing, CIA, Coca-Cola, Department of Defense, Embraer, Hughes, Intel, Compaq, Kodak, Kyocera, Lockheed Martin, National Security Agency, National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency, and Sun Microsystems.

Recent national and international presentations include Keynote Speeches for the U.S. Senate Conference on Emerging Technology, Information Management Forum, Kodak's Global Leadership Forum, the Photography & Imaging Manufacturing Association, 7-11, and the Society of Telecommunications Consultants Conference.

Mr. Smith's views on technology trends have been prominently featured in Business Week and American Demographics, among other publications. His complete bio can be found at http://www.tfi.com/staff/bios/smithd.html. Many of his citations and activities can be found under "TFI News" at http://www.tfi.com/pressroom/tfinews.html.

For nearly 30 years, TFI has helped organizations plan for the future by offering outstanding technology forecasting, strategic planning, trend analysis, and strategic market research services and publications in high-technology and telecom technologies. Drawing on proven, quantifiable forecasting methods and strategic applications, we combine the vision of the futurist with the down-to-earth judgment of the technologist. Let us be "Your Bridge to the Future."

PRESS CONTACT: Please contact Ms. Carrie Vanston at (800) TEK-FUTR, (512) 258-8898, or by e-mail with questions, comments, or to arrange an interview with Mr. Smith or other experts at TFI. We are always happy to comment on the subjects of technology and telecom trends. We welcome you to visit our website at http://www.tfi.com and our "Press Room" at http://www.tfi.com/pressroom/index.html.

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