With most competitors moving ever faster, the race will go to those who listen (and respond) most intently.

Like it or not - and often we don't - power is a pervasive phenomenon. From midnight decisions in the Oval Office that risk the lives of young Americans to quarrels over the kitchen table, power is part of every human equation. Yes, it can be - and often is - abused, in business as in all arenas of endeavor. But it can also be used to do great good for great numbers. And as a career-building tool, the slow and steady (and subtle) amassing of power is the surest road to success.

Advantage comes not from the spectacular or the technical. Advantage comes from a persistent seeking of the mundane edge.

Management is about arranging and telling. Leadership is about nurturing and enhancing.

And remember: Everything in business is a paradox. To be excellent, you have to be consistent. When you're consistent, you're vulnerable to attack. Yes, it's a paradox. Now deal with it!

Who comes first? Don't be silly, says King Hal; it's employees. That is - and this dear Watson, is elementary - if you genuinely want to put customers first, you must put employees more first.

Now it is much faster and cheaper to bring thedocument to the user, rather than ask the user to come to the document or collection.