DISQUS

Fred H Schlegel · 1 month ago

I think the drive to big was often fueled by reduction in transaction costs especially when it comes to currency conversions and risk. Now big in many markets is a defensive mechanism against large capital movements that can change the fundamentals of doing business. (The impact on Iceland of trying to out maneuver the big boys for example or a Wallmart on the town square) The question of small that most weighs on my mind is what are defense mechanisms against the big. As networks try to control and stop content through digital pipes, or large financial institutions decide to favor one region over another - small can be at a distinct disadvantage and vulnerable to power plays. Avoiding choke-holds may be one place where regulatory intervention ends balancing the scales of big vs small. (And I'm a very strong believer in the power of small to drive change).

Another aspect of the go local (riffing on your "being human" and "physical and online world" points) is the question can the technological evolution of api's etc reverse the cocooning movement driving individual interaction online and away from the local pub. I understand the differences between geographic local and social local and maybe the cash flows even out in a fashion. However, I do like a good pub.

I'm rambling as usual. Like your thought thread.

Taylor Davidson · 1 month ago

Believe it or not, I'm actually desperately trying to ramble less, even if the above doesn't demonstrate the conviction :)

But small can be a defense mechanism against big: the failure of "too big to fail" companies has exposed some of the problems with using size as a defense mechanism.

Actually, I would argue that networks, declining transaction costs of communication and organization et.al. offer a defense for small against big, in some markets, networks, and communities. How? Small can procure talent, resources, capital at a similar cost basis and leverage said resources with a similar efficiency and effectiveness as large, in some systems.

.. and one of my interests is figuring out which systems :)