Thursday, August 12, 2004
Authors of a new study of Michigan's economy are trying to trigger a conversation about the state's economic development strategy. The study argues that Michigan should shift its focus away from manufacturing jobs and toward "knowledge based" industries.
As one of the authors notes, "Our purpose in doing this study is to start a conversation about whether Michigan needs a new economic-development agenda. That's not on anyone's radar screen now." Among the questions the report raises:
Can Michigan, in any substantial way, affect the long-term trend of the loss of manufacturing employment?
Should Michigan make the preservation of manufacturing jobs its economic priority?
How can Michigan both attract and grow knowledge-based industries and prepare, retain, and attract young professionals?
From the looks of it, the report has successfully started to raise some issues. Here's another view.
posted by Ed Morrison |
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Some Background on EDPro Weblog
The purpose of this weblog is to help economic development professionals -- EDPros -- keep up with the changes sweeping our profession. Strap on your goggles. It's a whole new game. There are no experts any more. The only place to learn about economic development is from other EDPros who are doing it.
One other point: the prevaling approach (paradigm, if you like) in economic development is shifting from competition to collaboration. There are a lot of reaasons underlying this shift, but here's the important insight: You, your community, and your region will do better by collaborating and sharing information.
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Speaking and workshops on Open Source Economic Development
As the idea of Open Source Economic Development starts spreading, more people are asking about it. Visit the I-Open web site to learn more. My colleagues and I are happy to explain the basic concepts in a talk or a workshop. E-mail Susan Alshuler if you'd like to learn more about workshops and speaking.
Background on Ed Morrison
Download some background information on me here.