Well, I took a nap too late this afternoon and now I am up and cannot sleep. So, I thought I’d muse a bit about technology collaboration.
There are so many opportunities for collaboration that we do have to be particular about the ones we pursue. Right? I don’t think so. I think we need to pursue all bonafide opportunities to see where they’ll lead. This is particularly true in today’s environment.
Why do I say that? I have been pushing hard at work since my return from Iraq to get us collaborating and innovating more. And, every opportunity I’ve pursued has led to further opportunities…many bridging back to any number of other objectives I have. Yes, it takes time. Yes, I still have my other duties to perform. Yes, it leads to restless nights and blog posting at odd hours. No, I wouldn’t change a thing.
Granted, reality does set in on a lot of the opportunities. I cannot obligate the library to anything without consulting my boss. Also, many of the opportunities involve spending money, which, again, involves consulting my boss. But, the opportunities are for the library, not just me or the IT department, so the administration needs to be on board with everything anyways.
One other nugget of knowledge that I’ve gained recently is – if you have what you think is a good -to-great idea…share it! And, share it immediately! I have truly been amazed at how receptive others have been to my crazy ideas. And, even more stunned that they’ve been thinking similar thoughts and are eager to work together towards a joint goal.
Finally, for the UnConference, bring your crazy ideas. Bring your crazy friends. Even bring your crazy boss (though I won’t tell him or her you said they were crazy 
) Most importantly, however, bring your willingness to voice your ideas and listen to others’ ideas with an open mind.
George
