Thanks for the meaningful take on virtual work, Harold. It's very timely.

I was just with a client (I'm an OD consultant/closet techno-geek) who knows that he needs to create virtual teams in his global organization. Conceptually, he understands the need.

When I tried to explain some of the simple and inexpensive platforms and tools, he got nervous:

1. It was clear that a hands-on, concrete demo is needed for folks who don't do "black box" thinking. Those of us who stay on top of such things have to remember that others are willing but not able. That's a teachable moment.

2. He was very, very concerned about the lack of face-to-face relationship at the outset. His comfort level has him bringing everyone together for one meeting just so people "know" each other.

Again, that's a way to bridge the gap between old school and new tech.

Finally, an aside. Because I know this company so well, the real resistance will not be from managers and global team members. It will actually come from the IT folks who, for whatever reasons, can find 10 reasons "not to" every time a new technology is suggested or requested.

I'm thoroughly enjoying your writing and have added you to my RSS reader.