Last October this blog noted that Google was preparing to circumnavigate the normal IPO process by going straight to market. The announcement of an auction today is the next step in that story. Should be fascinating to see how Wall Street reacts.
By shirking the institutions (partly) and going straight to the people, Google are showing they understand the concept of the new powerful digital consumer. And that in this new era it's actions that count , not words.
Thanks for the post on Google's Don't Be Evil philosophy. It's refreshing, isn't it?
Google's IPO should get "Don't Be Evil." a lot of publicity--and when people dig into it a bit, they'll find that it's not just an empty corporate catchphrase.
Google has lived this philosophy, and they're not just being altruistic -- it's paid off big time. By refusing to let ad dollars corrupt search results, they've become #1 in search. Users trust Google not to tamper with their information just to make a quick buck.
I'm exploring how the Don't Be Evil ethic applies not only to Google, but to business, politics and the media. I'd be honored to get feedback on my site, www.dontbeevil.com.
Thanks!
Posted by: mahlon | May 14, 2004 at 07:43 AM