Subjects: General Business

Among the forces shaping 21st century economies, capitalism seems to be a big winner. This creates serious problems for society when business, individuals, and the community end up with competing demands. Can these three create a workable partnership that benefits all?

Knowledge has become the new capital, the new currency for business in the new millennium. Organizations must move to become skilled at knowledge creation, gathering, and management. Those that do not understand or adapt to these new rules will likely disappear.

Until recently, only a small percentage of women were in the work force – confined to lower paying positions. However, the glass ceiling is beginning to shatter as more and more women access senior management positions in traditionally male-dominated executive offices.

Business in the new global, knowledge based, technology driven economy has become dominated by speed and flexibility. Companies that can move quickly from idea to marketplace, respond to changing customer demands, and meet increasing competition, will be the success stories of the new millennium.

In the new millennium, the economic impact of the Pacific region will be staggering. This growth presents opportunities for Western companies, but to succeed they must know how to access these markets and understand the cultural differences.

New technologies, the ever-increasing speed of information flow, and growing global competition are transforming the way we work. Specific job descriptions and rigid hierarchies are being replaced by work based on teams and projects and the increased use of contractual and freelance workers.

Downsizing is having a tremendous impact on traditional livelihood expectations, decision-making, and job control. The effect of stress on worker health and the role of unions are also changing the face of today’s workplace and it’s workforce.

The explosive arrival of the World Wide Web means businesses and consumers can access a networked world – a vast marketplace with limitless potential. What kind of effect will this have on workers and the job market?