Enterprise Software Is Dead. Long Live Enterprise Software: The Power of Unread Books

Enterprise Software Is Dead. Long Live Enterprise Software: The Power of Unread Books

In today's digital age, the world of enterprise software is evolving rapidly. With giants like Google and Microsoft dominating the market, it's clear that businesses are investing heavily in tools that enhance productivity and collaboration. However, the rise of remote and distributed teams, as well as the consumerization of work tools, is changing the landscape of enterprise software.

One of the significant shifts in enterprise software is the emphasis on knowledge management within organizations. As more teams work remotely and from different corners of the globe, it becomes crucial for employees to know what's happening and where to find important information. The days of relying solely on broad catch-all tools like PowerPoint, Word, and Outlook are fading away. Instead, organizations are turning to specialized tools tailored to specific users, making them more efficient and effective.

Moreover, the complexity of online identity is a massive headache for organizations. Managing identity in the digital realm is becoming increasingly complex, dynamic, and multi-faceted. The traditional infrastructure of identity, built for an analog world, is struggling to keep up with the demands of the digital age. With social security numbers, physical addresses, and security questions as the basis of online identity, organizations are dealing with outdated systems that are prone to breaches and vulnerabilities.

However, amidst these changes, it's important to note that enterprise SaaS (Software as a Service) is still a space for innovation. While it may not be as "hot" as it once was, there is still room for growth and development. The rise of remote and distributed teams, along with advancements in AI, is driving the evolution of enterprise software. AI-powered tools are not a separate category but a new vector cutting across various functions and verticals. This intersection of technology and work is shaping the future of enterprise software.

In a world where technology is rapidly advancing, it's easy to overlook the value of unread books. The Japanese word "tsundoku" describes the habit of acquiring books but never reading them. However, Nassim Nicholas Taleb, the Lebanese-American scholar and author, introduced the concept of an antilibrary in his book "The Black Swan." An antilibrary is a private collection of unread books, which can be as powerful as the ones we have read if we choose to consider them in the right light.

The goal of an antilibrary is not to collect books we have read to display them proudly on our shelves. Instead, it is to curate a highly personal collection of resources around themes we are curious about. It is about embracing the unknown and recognizing that thorough ignorance is the prelude to every real advance in science, as Scottish scientist James Clerk Maxwell once said.

Building an antilibrary goes beyond collecting books for the sake of collecting. It is about recognizing that knowledge is a process, not a possession. By maintaining a collection of unread books, we create a humble relationship with knowledge, acknowledging that there is always more to learn and discover. It becomes a research tool, a source of inspiration, and a reminder of the vastness of the world of ideas.

To make the most of an antilibrary, it is essential to take notes of all relevant references. When an author mentions another book, checking the exact reference and making a note of it allows us to have a comprehensive list of sources when we finish reading a book. This practice enhances our ability to delve deeper into topics of interest, expanding our understanding and perspective.

Furthermore, seeking recommendations from fellow readers is a valuable way to expand our antilibrary. Engaging in conversations about books and ideas with others opens up new avenues for exploration and helps us discover hidden gems that we may have missed otherwise. The act of sharing recommendations fosters a sense of community and collaboration in the pursuit of knowledge.

In conclusion, while enterprise software may be evolving and changing, it remains a vital aspect of modern-day work. The rise of remote and distributed teams, as well as advancements in AI, are shaping the landscape of enterprise software. Simultaneously, building an antilibrary and embracing the power of unread books allows us to cultivate a humble relationship with knowledge. It reminds us that there is always more to learn and discover, and that knowledge is a process, not a possession.

Three actionable pieces of advice to take away from this article are:

• 1. Embrace specialized tools tailored to specific users within your organization. These tools can enhance productivity and collaboration, allowing for more efficient work processes.

• 2. Invest in knowledge by building an antilibrary. Collect books that interest you and maintain a collection of unread books as a research tool and source of inspiration.

• 3. Engage in conversations with fellow readers and seek recommendations. Sharing ideas and recommendations expands your antilibrary and fosters a sense of community and collaboration in the pursuit of knowledge.