Licensing in a Flat World

Originally published in Les Nouvelles, June 2006, and LES Viewpoints, August 2005
Copyright © Finnegan, Henderson, Farabow, Garrett & Dunner, LLP

In his recent book, THE WORLD IS FLAT, Thomas Friedman illustrates how modern communications and fewer political barriers have added billions of potential competitors to the marketplace and added billions of potential customers. In a breathless tone, he suggests few in the developed world (if that classification still has meaning) have been paying attention and may face diminishing prospects if they fail to act.

Part of the book focuses on the current popular concern, outsourcing. Friedman makes the case that, despite short term labor disruptions, outsourcing from one country to another will be a net positive for all in a flat world. As career advice in the face of growing transnational outsourcing, he suggests entering a profession that is either highly specialized or by its nature is geographically anchored.