As we enter a new decade we are at a cross road. On one hand we face global competition, the tail end of one of the most significant recessions faced in this country and the emergence of markets and technologies that can help organizations become more competitive and efficient. On the other hand, the glass is half full. These same challenges can be seen by some as opportunities for growth and expansion.
Lets look at this from a technological aspect for a minute. Information Technology has played a major factor in the trends of the economic landscape. As micro technology emerged in the 80s, we saw a significant trend and growth in the area of sciences. In the 90s we benefited from the growth and emergence of the dot-coms that provided a major economic engine of the decade. As we faced Y2K, we once more saw business and technology come together to face the possible threat of the Y2K “none-event”. Billions of dollars were invested by companies as they replaced outdated and antiquated systems, for fear of a major collapse or loss of data.
Though this period provided great opportunities and an avenue for growth, a significant by-product was the emergence of life science and BIO-Technology. Today we still face these challenges. Companies can be conservative and keep doing business as usual or leverage expertise and resources to separate themselves for their competitors.
Technology spending is predicted to be among the highest it has been in almost a decade. Billions of dollars are being pipelined by Washington towards technology, life sciences and BIO-IT. Those companies that recognize the opportunities and position themselves in the forefront will reap the rewards.
By investing in capital growth, human resources and emerging trends your business is driving the growth that feeds the economic engine. Growth creates jobs. Jobs create a need. A need creates manufacturing. And together they all generate opportunity and define the trends for future generations.
I am a glass half full type of individual. I believe that growth through proper planning can position any organization to leverage the market as capital starts to move freely once more. The writing is on the wall, though not everyone has read it, let along taken advantage of it. Reward without risk is not for the faint of heart. But for those that can see the forest for the trees, the possibilities are limitless.
Therefore as we face a new decade, what was done in the past may not still be apropos. You must consider new strategies, new objectives and a new business model: A model of opportunity instead of conservatism. By investing on your business, community and human capital, those companies that want to be a recognizable entity for years to come can demonstrate the difference between business as usual and business in the new decade.
Post Views: 707
