Competitive horizon
Article Type: Competitive horizon From: Strategic Direction, Volume 29, Issue 4
China set for export boost in 2013
According to a report published by www.china.org, 2013 should see China increase its foreign trade. Exports are predicted to perform better than in 2012, especially over the latter half of the year. The report warns of certain difficulties though, with China’s Ministry of Commerce pointing to likely tough budgets in certain nations as among likely barriers that also includes the potential for increased inflation as economic activity rises. It is expected that much of the ongoing emphasis will be placed on strengthening China’s trade connections with nations in Southeast Asia, South America, Africa, Central Asia and other emerging markets.
Strong future predicted for green building
Ecologically-friendly building is becoming identified as a key business opportunity, a study conducted by McGraw-Hill Construction claims. The US industry leader points out that decisions to go green are becoming increasingly driven by factors associated with strategic planning and financial performance of the organization. Client demand, market demand, reduced operating costs and boosting the brand are among the reasons cited. In addition, a green focus is also predicted to positively impact on asset value. Those prepared to adopt this approach can expect to profit within seven years for renovation projects and eight for new constructions. Firms from 62 nations were surveyed for the study,which revealed significant plans to engage in new construction and renovation activities over the next three years. Opportunities for new projects appear strongest in Brazil and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), while companies in the United Kingdom (UK) and Singapore showed the greatest intent where renovation is concerned. Published by www.greenlodgingnews.com, the report suggests that green building can help lower consumption of energy and water and provide health benefits by improving the quality of indoor air.
UK identifies new technologies to drive future growth
A government report has identified several technologies that can help boost economic performance in the UK. Conducted by the Foresight Horizon Scanning Center, the report singled out smart fabrics and 3D printing for special mention. The first innovation transforms clothing into an interactive state through the use of technologies that are incorporated within the fabrics. Scientists and other experts claim that wearers can be monitored for certain health conditions and a quicker response when elderly people fall is another likely benefit. The report, as published by www.growthbusiness.co.uk,is equally enthusiastic about 3D printing. People are able to manufacture their own products with this emerging technology, which is now available for commercial use. Along with energy transition, these areas are set to form the core of the UK’s long-term industrial strategy and help to ensure that investment will result in more growth opportunities. Exploiting these technologies demands close collaboration between scientists and industry, while the government’s role as facilitator is regarded as equally crucial.
Why communication creates business success
As globalization continues to open new windows of opportunity to business organizations, the need for communication skills has risen accordingly. Online language training provider Speexx argues that proficiency in this area makes a vital contribution to any firm venturing into new markets. With much business activity conducted in English, complacency often arises within organizations based in English-speaking countries. According to Speexx though, there is a need for businesses to acquaint themselves with a simplified, more global variant of the language in order to succeed internationally. But some competence in local language and customs is additionally needed for those operating in diverse markets, and having multilingual employees can considerably increase the firm’s competitiveness. Improving communication skills within the workforce demands major investment in language training technology. China and India have lead the way in this respect and their considerable efforts have played a role in the respective economic success of these nations. In contrast, poor capacity to communicate is blamed for loss of business that many European companies experience every year. The need for language training is paramount within multinational firms where increased career mobility creates openings which must be filled swiftly in order to minimize any disruption to business.
