Manifesto for Smart Growth

So here's what's sparking this discussion: while the economy is showing signs of life, most of us are not expecting double digit growth in revenues or funding sources anytime soon. Beyond this, something deeper has changed. Operating norms of the past decade have been swept away in the financial crisis that erupted last fall. What's emerged is a renewed expectation of prudence, performance and accountability. In this climate it is not only harder to play as less money comes in the door but the rules have changed as well.

Economic pressures accelerate change. What types of pressure does your organization face? Examples around us include consolidation (auto, banking), new vs. old business models (media), new competition via expansion (some big box retailers getting even bigger) or competition via new entrants (on-line replacing brick-and-mortar).

What is your organization experiencing? Are you focused on short term survival – cash flow management, expense reductions? Can you look ahead towards growth, if so, how? If you were the CEO (or if you are the CEO) what do you do?