Googled: The End of the World As We Know It

by Ken Auletta

Comments:

In case you didn’t know, I’m pretty much of a nerd. I love books about technology, technology companies, and all things related to Silicon Valley. I’ve been working my way through a number of books about successful companies in the tech sector. The librarians at my local library have commented on the books I’ve borrowed as well as the books that I’ve requested via inter-library loan. I’m not ashamed of my nerd status, and they think it’s kind of funny.

I was searching the stacks a few weeks ago, looking for another book, and noticed a relatively new copy of Googled by Ken Auletta. Since I really don’t know much about the company I decided to check it out and learn more about this iconic company.

I really didn’t know what to expect. I’m glad I didn’t go in with preconceived notions, because this turned out to be a fantastic book.

Ken is absolutely no apologist for Google. He had hard-hitting information, but also a fair approach. The very end of the book was a bit weakened by the fact that he made some predictions and recommendations for the future of the company that I don’t think will stand the test of time (it was written in 2009…eons in technology company time).

Despite the ending couple chapters, the rest of the book was very interesting. Vastly more than a search company, Google has infiltrated many other areas of the economy. Ads and Content Creation/Dissemination are keys to Google’s success, but may also prove their downfall. The culture of excellence among the employees, and the unique culture within the company are something to think about for any ventures that I enter into in the future, especially those that have employees.

There are many lessons to be taken from this book. The most important lesson is Google’s intense desire to do what’s right for their customers. Google’s definition of “right” may differ from yours, and it has differed from mine at times, but they have steadfastly stuck to their corporate motto of “Don’t be evil”. From my perspective, that’s a very interesting motto. So many corporate slogans are bland affirmations of dull thoughts. Google was avant garde with their motto, yet it has served them well.

Their dedication to their employees, and their demands for only the brightest and best among those who enter the company outlines a great way to ensure that A players are working with other A players.

Googled: The End of the World As We Know It was a pretty fast read, very enjoyable from the content perspective, and gave me many, many things to think about from a business perspective. I liked it enough that it’s on my wish list for Christmas so that I can add a copy to my personal library.

Hectic-Dad’s rating (out of 5)