The term “crowdsourcing” was coined by tech writer, Jeff Howard, to describe the ever-growing popularity of getting information, ideas and public answers by accessing the “wisdom of crowds”. Whether it’s getting advice from those in your Network (Twitter, just when you were getting comfortable with Facebook!)), seeking knowledge (Wikipedia), or using open source programming (e.g. Wordpress), technology is moving us at rocket speed, enabling access to the talents and intelligence of a sophisticated “crowd”.

Rather than feeling overwhelmed by these fast-paced changes, consider yourself in the forefront of the tech “cognoscenti”, those using mass collaboration to outsource jobs and projects, design products, turn hobbies into income, find investors, improve customer relations and services, charity fund raising, (and just about anything you can think of), and what it all means:

· “Brain gangs” – the information, skills and talents of a group, which may be specific or random, generates content and/or offers solutions for a variety of questions or problems.

· New partnerships - customers/consumers join and assist in the development of products and services, where the contributors often become the buyers in this relationship-based marketplace.

· Decentralized diversity – leap-frogging committees, managers, and bosses, opinions can be obtained from a huge pool, often operating independently; decisions are then made by those that sought the information.

· No single opinion maker – participants are independent from one another to keep people from being swayed by a single opinion leader, constantly generating of fresh perspectives.

· “Many to many” communication – with a multitude of readers, writers, and commenters, traditional media no longer provides the only model; individuals and groups actively provide information and knowledge

· Corps of communities – these “help engines” are powered by ardent and dedicated individuals and groups that can provide feedback and support; businesses seek this large pool for focus groups, trend spotting, branding, marketing and product development.

· Caveat emptor - same as you were told about newspapers and magazines, don’t believe everything you read! Check your sources (online sites such as Snopes), reach out to those in your networks (and beyond), ask for suggestions, advice and additional information.

· In the spirit of crowdsourcing, what topics would you suggest for the weekly Tip?

And remember, taking action is the catalyst for change!