This book comes at a time when virtual organizations (VO) are proliferating exponentially due to the twin catalysts of globalization and technological enablement. It provides conceptual frameworks and simple tools for identifying and addressing the complexities of managing geographically dispersed, virtually linked organizations, which may have grown organically or inorganically into a potpourri of multiple cultures, capabilities and practices. These can help to scientifically assess the impact of virtualization, balance the physical with the virtual and manage risks using early indicators. As ensuring knowledge transfer effectiveness (KTE) is vital in VOs, a diagnostic tool has been evolved to measure KTE, isolate problems and weak links and plan effective interventions. Moreover, a set of critical factors that could increase the chances of an organization's globalization strategies succeeding have been identified. This book interleaves theory with practice and provides insights drawn from conversations with business leaders, exploratory surveys, and in-depth research using a large sample. "Sandhya Shekhar's wide ranging analysis moves beyond just the technology enabling today's virtualized organizations to a long overdue analysis of the opportunities and challenges facing organizations looking to benefit from this historic levelling of the competitive playing field. Highly recommend to all executives responsible for leading into this brave new virtualized world." - Peter Bars Senior Partner Client Services / Consulting, Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu, Melbourne, Australia "This is a fascinating aspect of organisations which is now ubiquitous. The complexity has only increased over time. Given the need for a strong organisational framework to support a `virtual' organisation, there has been limited focus on this area and I am thus delighted that this book delves into this topic which should assist both the observer and the practitioner." - Sandeep Uppal Managing Director & Head Commercial Banking/ India, Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation, Mumbai, India "Virtual Organizations are becoming the new norm. The author has married her vast industry experience, in-depth analysis of several VOs, with strong academic orientation to present new concepts. Organizations will benefit tremendously by diving into the book to unearth the gems that will improve their organizational effectiveness." - Dr. Ambi Parameswaran Advisor (and former CEO and Executive Director) FCB Ulka Advertising, Mumbai, India .