Wikinomics

Don Tapscott and Anthony D. Williams examine the emerging economic and social implications of the Internet, arguing that digital networks are fundamentally altering how value is created and distributed. The authors introduce the concept of 'wikinomics,' a term derived from the collaborative nature of Wikipedia, to describe a shift from traditional hierarchical business models to open, networked, and participatory structures. They explore how this transition impacts industries ranging from media and finance to manufacturing, emphasizing the rise of open-source software, peer-to-peer networks, and user-generated content.

The book serves as an early and influential analysis of what would later be broadly categorized as Web 2.0. Its tone is analytical and forward-looking, blending business strategy with sociological observation. By highlighting the tension between closed, proprietary systems and open, collaborative ones, the text provides a framework for understanding the digital economy's move toward transparency and collective intelligence. It remains a key reference for understanding the foundational principles of modern digital collaboration and networked business.

Description adapted from Open Library bibliographic data ↗.