Most of us believe that technology has a good track record in improving productivity. But there have been many promised futures that did not come about.  Think 'the paperless office' for one.  This was first mooted back in the 1960s and every decade or so, someone promotes the concept again (normally scanner manufacturers). Well, mindful

I think it was Mark Twain who one said that eating a live frog early every morning means you know the worst is behind you and you can get on with your day with confidence.  (Literary quotes are often difficult to attribute ... most of them have allegedly been said by Oscar Wilde or George

We have seen lots of talk over the last few years by various governments about the need for more sustainable development - and less dependence on fossil fuels. Yet, the rise in the use of fossil fuels goes on - along with the associated pollution and environmental damage. If most businesses over-promised and under-delivered to

All nations want to increase their productivity.  This makes them more competitive, brings rewards for citizens and allows society to develop. The problem is that no-one is quite sure how it can be achieved. There seem to be as many solutions (or strategies) as there are nations. Is there a simple answer? No!  It is

Several years ago, Peter Drucker noted that if most organisations increased their productivity by 10% it would double their profits.   At that time, 10% seemed achievable.  Now, firms are lucky to achieve 5% - and nations feel good if they move into positive figures. What has changed? Not a lot, actually - but firms seem

We hold innovative firms up to the light- as rare, glorious examples. Most organisations have a number of creative people - whether or not in avowedly creative roles. When these creative people come up with ides that could become innovations - the ideas tend to be evaluated too early and too harshly.  Evaluators look for

India is often cited as the next major economic powerhouse - perhaps even overtaking China.  This is based on India's recent record in moving up the international GDP league. However, look just below the surface and you will see that this impressive growth has largely been fuelled by widening employment participation.  India has been very

Coaching has become 'fashionable - the number of business coaches has multiplied dramatically over the last 10 years. However many of thee coaches are 'consultants' under a different name. What is the difference? Well, a consultant attempts to improve your business. A coach, on the other hand, is trying to improve you - so  that

Careers have been changing for some time. More and more people have portfolio careers, switching industries, roles and employers frequently to fit in with a more flexible lifestyle and give a better work-life balance. This means most firms have higher labour turnover and greater recruitment costs. It also means it becomes necessary to improve the

The US is imposing tariffs on a number of imports - notably steel and aluminium.  The aim is to protect US manufacturing by making foreign goods more expensive - thus making domestic products more competitive.  Now I haven't seen the details of the tariffs - but I do know that this is an area in