Today, Forrester and Harvard Business Review Press released the print version of Empowered, a book by Forrester veterans Josh Bernoff and Ted Schadler. This book is a quick and worthwhile read for just about anyone who wants to consider the changing role of technology in the workplace. After several reads of this book, I have found that in addition to a lot of great statistics, quotes, and case studies, there is a valuable message for how companies MUST change their philosophy and approach toward new technologies in order to stay innovative.

As a quick example of how quickly the technology landscape is changing, stop for a moment to consider just how many times in the past few days you have:

• Received an invitation to LinkedIn.
• Seen a personal acquaintance using Facebook.
• “Tweeted” or heard someone comment on “tweeting.”
• Checked your mobile phone — or seen a commercial for a cool new mobile app.
• Heard reference to social media in a news story.
• Watched a video clip on YouTube.