How the likes of Napster and Kazaa went so far so quickly

Abstract

PurposeReviews the latest management developments across the globe and pinpoints practical implications from cutting‐edge research and case studies.Design/methodology/approachThis briefing is prepared by an independent writer who adds their own impartial comments and places the articles in context.FindingsFinds that modern day highway robbers have been termed “network innovators”, and while there is no theft involved these days, they have a shared aim: to make life as easy as possible for the masses and in turn as difficult for the established order as possible. A network innovator tends to be a not‐for‐profit enterprise that has developed an innovation, usually in new technologies, and uses new types of networks to spread the word about and distribute the innovation.Practical implicationsProvides strategic insights and practical thinking that have influenced some of the world's leading organizations.Originality/valueThe briefing saves busy executives and researchers hours of reading time by selecting only the very best, most pertinent information and presenting it in a condensed and easy‐to‐digest format.