World Out of Balance

A dynamic approach to survival and success in a rapidly changing business worldIncreased competition. Collapsed time horizons. Intense scrutiny. Rapid geopolitical change. These are just a few of the challenges corporate leaders and other key decision makers face in today’s volatile global environment. New technologies and other innovations add speed and efficiency to the way we do business—but at the same time, they increase risk factors that can slow down and even destroy companies. New government regulations, rising energy costs, and an endless array of unforeseen complications are forcing corporate leaders to look beyond the bottom line of short-term success—by anticipating potential problems and planning for future growth, even when the playing field is rapidly changing.But how can you and your company stay ahead in a world out of balance? How can you prepare for the opportunities and threats that come along with burgeoning populations in unfamiliar markets, rising anti-corporate activism, emerging oil and water shortages, and constantly changing consumer needs? The answer, according to Paul Laudicina, is foresight and flexibility. He has identified the crucial keys to success in turbulent times. Many companies focus their attention on internal operations and short-term goals—and blame their shortcomings on factors outside their control. But “value-building companies” look onward and outward—anticipating problems, managing risks, and developing new growth opportunities. They are prepared for the future. They are in control of their destinies. And you can be, too.This important book couldn’t have come at a better time. Not only does it highlight emerging trends and possible scenarios for tomorrow’s business environment, it also reveals what every business leader needs to know about the new global environment—and offers an in-depth analysis of the five drivers shaping an ever-changing business world: Globalization—the rising risks and rewards of trade, communication, and travel that bring increased vulnerabilities along with new opportunitiesDemographics—slowed population growth in developed countries and increased growth in developing markets Consumer Needs—increasingly diverse and demanding consumer markets, causing fierce market competition Natural Resources and Environment—the new energy crisis and other emerging challenges that strain natural resource limitsRegulation and Activism—new government regulations, public policy issues and long-term business challengesThese are the factors that will play a key role in your company’s future—and your own personal success. Supplemented with helpful risk-mapping techniques and sample scenarios, this empowering and enlightening book will alter the way you do business today and tomorrow. It is your personal guide to survival and success in a world of constant change. Paul A. Laudicina is vice president and managing director of A.T. Kearney's Global Business Policy Council, a strategic service helping chief executives and government leaders monitor and capitalize on macroeconomic, geopolitical, socio-demographic and technological change worldwide. Before joining A.T. Kearney and founding the Council nearly 15 years ago, Paul spent 20 years working on global strategic issues in various positions with industry, government and research in