So Clive Thompson from Wired Magazine is writing an article about a concept called "Radical
Transparency". His thesis, as he says, is pretty simple:
“In today's
ultranetworked online world, you can accomplish more by being insanely open about everything you're doing. Indeed, in many cases it's a superbad idea to operate in highly secret mode -- because secrets get leaked anyway, looking like a paranoid freak is a bad thing, and most importantly, you're missing out
on opportunities to harness the deeply creative power of an open world.”
As part of the process for putting this piece together, he’s definitely practicing what he preaches. He’s posted a public call for participation looking for comments on the concept, examples of situations or institutions where transparency is becoming more the norm, or issues that should be raised as a result.
Personally, I think this concept has ripple effects throughout society, as political communications, buyer / seller interactions, media institutions, and interpersonal communication could get a refreshing boost of authenticity.
What I believe is going to happen though, is that – like many other societal shifts –
this one will be embraced more by the young and digitally connected, and will be resisted initially by older generations at first. As Thompson points out, "the pre-Internet world trafficked in secrecy, and information was valuable because it was rare" – so it’s going to go against the very DNA of
older generations to be completely transparent and “come clean” when they’ve made mistakes, or are trying to maintain control over the flow of information about themselves. (look no further than politics, and those in power for the easiest example.)
But I think this is an interesting concept, and I’m glad they’re exploring it. One idea I’m going to suggest they take a
look at is the nature of buyer / seller interactions, and specifically how we are trained for them (informally or formally).
Could there actually come a day when Radical Transparency in the sales process could resemble that old Seinfeld bit on what would happen if people said whatever they were thinking on blind dates?
Dater
#1: “Hi, this isn’t going to work out,
actually. You aren’t as attractive as I
was hoping for (your product really isn't that great), and your friend completely misrepresented you in his / her
description (your advertising really didn't live up here).”
Dater
#2: “Hey, no problem. Your breath is horrible anyway (you're probably a high maintenance client), and you’re
one of the worst dressers I’ve ever seen (you were probably going to squeeze me on margins anyway).”
Both: “Take care now! (talk to you never)”
Ok, maybe we're still a little ways away, but you get the picture..:) What are
some areas in your life where a little Radical Transparency could help?
