Wednesday, March 4, 2015


Module 5

Triple convergence refers to the three types of convergence Thomas L. Friedman presents in his book. The first type of convergence is the creation of a global platform. This convergence created an even playing field for everyone regardless of time or geographic boundaries. This came about using the ten world flatteners written about in the book. The second type of convergence Friedman labeled as “Horizontalisation”. This type of convergence changed the chain of command from vertical to horizontal. This allowed different groups inside and outside of companies to work together. The final type of convergence created a world in which individuals could compete from anywhere for work. This convergence allows people all over the globe to access information needed to complete a job.

Friedman next discusses exploitation using a story about India and Indiana. In it Indiana was seeking a contract to upgrade computers and systems that process state unemployment claims. Indiana received several offers from companies however an American branch of an Indian firm won through a steal of a deal with $8.1 million less than any other bids, this allowed for the state to cut tax costs, help those Indiana department workers with future work, and provide Indian workers present labor. The state originally signed the contract but shortly canceled it providing money for what work they had already done. The conflict was that by outsourcing the work to help unemployment they were giving away jobs that could have helped unemployment. As to who was exploited and who was exploiting I am not sure. I think Indiana should have taken more time thinking about the problems they would cause by outsourcing the work.

Intellectual property is defined as “a work or invention that is the result of creativity, such as a manuscript or a design, to which one has rights and for which one may apply for a patent, copyright, trademark, etc.” (Google). Intellectual property is important because a persons creativity should be protected from being stolen.

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