One item today, because it has several parts, all revolving around a new, way outside-the-box book.

I’m referring to Jeff Jarvis’ just-released What Would Google Do?, exploring how to apply the lessons of Google to other industries and companies.

Jarvis teaches at the City University of New York Graduate School of Journalism; his blog is BuzzMachine.

Business Week published an excerpt describing how a car company run by Google might function and why the auto industry would be resistant to the approach. Be sure to read through the comments, they’re as interesting as the article.

I like the Management Tip Sheet; here are the headings, but the real value is in the details, so be sure to click the link.

• Manage Abundance, Not Scarcity
• Make Mistakes Well
• Give Up Control
• Get Out Of The Way
• Low Prices Are Good (Free Is Better)
• Don’t Be Evil (Contrary to popular opinion the phrase has an internal focus, not external.)

Finally, here’s a video of Jarvis talking about his ideas; there are several other interviews that offer different slants and information.

Just to be clear, this isn’t a book recommendation. I think there are good lessons to learn from Google, but there are good lessons to learn from most truly innovative companies.

I know of none that can be applied straight across the board or are one-size-fits-all.

But all the companies that still believe “if we make it they will buy” are in for a very rude awakening when the economy turns around—as it will.

Your comments—priceless

Don’t miss a post, subscribe via RSS or EMAIL

Image credit: flickr and BuzzMachine