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The New Economy is information based and Internet accessed. In 2000, industries recognized this leverage and initiated connectivity programs for their employees. Connectivity programs are equalizing opportunities for employees to enhance their personal potential and learn e-principles. Employees are discovering lifelong learning, improving work-life integration, and connecting to customers. Web companies gain efficiencies by sharing engineering designs, supporting build-to-order production schedules and promoting customer satisfaction at new levels. Connectivity packages support corporate hiring and retention objectives. This article reviews the context of the computer/Internet giveaways, the concepts of global relationships, Net learning and the Industry Internet.

New supplier / manufacturer relationship are necessary to produce products quickly, cost-effectively, and with features expected by the customer. However, the need for a new relationship is not universally accepted and endorsed. Resistance can be minimized through supplier self-assessment (such as Ford Motor Company's web-based instruments), management initiatives, and incentives. Trust and sharing are hallmarks. This strategy requires a new workplace paradigm affecting culture and people issues. Teams, extend across companies, share ideas and innovations. Decisions need to be mutually beneficial and the long-term value, for supplier and manufacturer, needs to be considered.