In which ways is the world ‘flat’?

Question 1

Space-time compression (3)

Answer 1

• Advancements in communication and transportation technologies have reduced the time and distance required to connect with people and places around the world.
  -Internet, emails, video conferencing, and social media, information can be exchanged instantaneously, allowing businesses, organizations, and individuals to collaborate and coordinate across different time zones and geographical locations.
• Similarly, air travel and efficient shipping methods have accelerated the movement of goods and services, enabling a faster and more accessible global marketplace.

Question 2

Level playing field (3)

Answer 2

• Individuals and businesses from diverse backgrounds now have equal opportunities to participate in the global economy.
  -Rise of e-commerce and digital platforms, small businesses and entrepreneurs can compete with larger corporations, as they gain access to a global customer base without the need for a physical presence in multiple countries.
  -This democratization of commerce has empowered individuals and smaller entities, fostering innovation and economic growth in various parts of the world.

Question 3

Enabling, empowering, and enjoining individuals and small groups to go global easily and seamlessly (4)

Answer 3

-Empowered individuals and small groups by providing them with the tools and resources to access global markets and collaborate across borders with ease.
- Online marketplaces, crowdfunding platforms, and social media networks have become instrumental in helping startups and creative projects gain exposure and funding from a worldwide audience.
-Moreover, the availability of cloud computing and online services has enabled entrepreneurs to operate and manage businesses efficiently, reducing the need for extensive physical infrastructure.
-The internet and digital technologies have facilitated the dissemination of knowledge allowing individuals to learn new skills, connect with like-minded professionals, and access educational resources from across the globe. As a result, the world is “flatter” in the sense that geographical barriers are no longer prohibitive, and anyone with access to the internet can participate in the global exchange of ideas and information.