http://disqus.com/by/melaniejdunn/enWed, 12 Aug 2009 08:59:40 -0000http://www.mfrtech.com/articles/2380.html#comment-14710725<p>These are issues that have been around a long time and are the concern of every business owner. However, is there a strategy to pursue to improve the situation? Do you have an answer? It's not labor you're talking about, it's unions. But is there an answer here - a bridge that would allow some compromise? Also, let's remember GM was famously burdened with a huge middle management structure. While line jobs were cut with union negotiations, management was not. Now things have to change. This is the challenge of a "maintanence" business, to encourage change management in the culture. <br>About taxes: we have the highest rates, but the most loopholes...There are a number of corps that pay no tax whatsoever. Is innovation really held down by our corporate taxes? Look at Microsoft and Google. Successful companies pay taxes and innovate like crazy. Could the answer be that management must get more competitive?<br>We now have a standard of living and educational levels lower than Western Europe. Perhaps we should focus on how to increase our national quality of life - what products serve this end? The Obama Administration is focused on this future, and perhaps so should we.</p>melaniejdunnWed, 12 Aug 2009 08:59:40 -0000http://www.mfrtech.com/articles/2380.html#comment-14636597<p>I think that it is a matter of focus. The Obama Administration and many states have shown leadership in lowering energy costs for all commercial and industrial facilities. Many states have enacted rebates, incentives, grants and loans to help companies lower their energy costs with ROIs often under three years. New technologies can make old equipment more efficient. Just switching out your lighting to more efficient technologies can save an enormous amount of money. Our clients on average save 30-60% off their energy bills. This is indirect support but it can make an enormous impact on your bottom line and it is open to all entitities.</p><p>The Obama Administration has also focused on promoting the R&amp;D and manufacturing of technologies which conserve the end use of gas or electricity. New Jersey's Edison Innovation Fund supports the research and development, manufacturing and commercialization of energy efficiency equipment and technology that reduces electric or natural gas consumption, Class 1 renewable energy products such as photovoltaic, solar, wind energy, and other manufactured technologies or equipment that can demonstrate their integral nature to the development of Class I renewable energy and energy efficiency technologies.</p><p>Companies pursuing opportunities in this sector have access to grants and zero interest loans for terms up to ten years. Support is given for finding factory sites, initial hiring and up to $3 million. My perception is that many states have versions of this program or efforts to promote new businesses in economic development zones.</p><p>In short, the answer is to either "follow the money" by reducing your energy costs or by developing new products. If neither of these are relevant to your business, I would try exercise leadership by engaging the Administration by providing proposed solutions to your needs. Leadership is lacking but it may be up to you to contributing your expertise and insights.</p><p></p>melaniejdunnTue, 11 Aug 2009 10:55:18 -0000