Introduction : the fastest way -- The new business essentials -- Five distinctive qualities of leadership -- The basics for putting our differences to work -- Step 1: assessment : defining current realities -- Step 2: acceptance : developing support for change -- Step 3: action : moving forward -- Step 4: accountability : establishing shared ownership -- Step 5: achievement : measuring progress, celebrating success -- Step 6: more action : keeping momentum alive -- Innovation at the verge of differences / by Joel A. Barker -- Collaboration at the verge of differences -- The power of the virtual gathering place -- A send-off : a final word.