Has anyone noted that this year's theme to the Davos Conference is collaborative innovation? See http://www.theglobeandmail.com...

What I find most amazing about it is that it has been the theme of the past three Business Innovation Factory Summit's (see http://businessinnovationfacto...)....right here in Providence.

Little Rhode Island's collaborative innovation posse (and you know who you are) should hang there heads high knowing that the world's leading figures will be discussing an approach that many Rhode Islanders now actively engage in--creating a more collaborative environment in our state. New social networks, like this, are growing each day creating further dialogue, discussion and collaboration between different parties. Ideas are coming off-screen and being put into action. As Rhode Islanders representing government, academia, public and private sectors form new collaborations, we are closing that one degree of separation (or connectedness) that is the only thing that stands between us and new (and cool) opportunities.

Collaborating is tough. It takes time, effort, stamina and energy. On average it can take up a fair amount of one's week. It can involve sharing ideas and sharing resources. There are tons of examples of people collaborating here and I think that is what makes Rhode Island an increasingly special place.

This year's theme at Davos is not really unlike the philosophy of "random acts of kindness." If each of us engaged in random acts of kindness, the world would be a better place. So too with respect to collaborating across institutions (and party lines).

According to the piece in the Globe and Mail, "Davos organizers also invited citizens around the world to respond via YouTube to The Davos Question. "What one thing do you think countries, companies or individuals should do to make the world a better place in 2008?" The most popular responses will be played at Davos, and leaders around the world will record their reactions to the suggestions." Once available, I look forward to checking out those videos!!!!