Tuesday, May 08, 2007
Indiana Governor Mitch Daniels once told an audience of civic leaders in his state: "Progress begins when denial ends."
In the years ahead, every community and region will be facing serious workforce challenges. The regions that will move ahead will have the courage to face the facts. here's an example. In Payson, AZ, the local economic development organization has produced a serious report on the skill weaknesses in the current workforce.
"The study made clear the biggest challenge facing our business community is the fact it cannot recruit or maintain a qualified and stable work force. If this challenge can be met, there is a potential for an estimated $24 million in business expansion over the next three years in the area."
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.
If you are using a news reader, here is the link to syndicate this site:
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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.
Facing workforce weaknesses
