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Administration of Change: The Obama Impact on Economic Policy

The Obama Impact on Economic Policy The Obama administration faces some of the greatest economic challenges the nation has encountered in two generations, and expectations for change are high. Explore our perspectives on how public and private organizations can implement real and lasting solutions.

To Survive or Thrive? Staying Strong in a Challenging Economy

Jessica Blume, Associate National Managing Director, Clients & Industries, Deloitte Consulting LLP

With our nation in the midst of a serious economic crisis, organizations and individuals alike are being forced to rethink short- and long-term business and operational strategies. When the economy is strong, many companies can grow even if they don’t operate at the highest level of efficiency or focus tightly on the most profitable activities. But when the economy turns downward, organizations that continue to operate as they did in more bountiful times can quickly run into trouble. The good news is that refocusing and rebalancing can help companies ride out the stresses of a downturn and emerge prepared for improved growth. Importantly, renewed focus on operational discipline can position companies for more profitable growth.

Today’s challenges are great: financial markets are unstable; commodity prices are in flux; housing, automotive and other industries must fight for survival; millions are newly unemployed.

But there are positive indicators, if you know where to look. Companies and organization are thinking about thriving in the downturn by growing smart; finding emerging merger and acquisition opportunities; simplifying their business models; “leaning out” operations; shifting fixed costs to variable costs; managing talent proactively; and bolstering planning disciplines.

And, the new administration is gearing up to tackle national problems; Wall Street is taking a more watchful stance; businesses are restructuring; globalization is taking root; talent is becoming more of a sought-after commodity; and greening issues are increasingly at the forefront.

Real and lasting solutions to corporate and organizational issues loom large in the new year. Indeed, the expectations for change are great.

Explore More Insights From Deloitte

	Economic Stimulus: Perspectives on Strategy Explore issues and industries of interest for guidance on navigating the current economy and positioning your organization for future growth.
	Obama Budget Proposal Resource Center Stay up-to-date on the latest developments in Washington with our ongoing analysis of the proposed FY 2010 budget package.
	The Stimulus Package: Analysis of Tax Provisions We break down the 407-page American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 document and provide analyses pertinent to various industries and functions.
	Navigating the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009: A Government Services Tool Kit Pressure to act quickly, extensive accountability mandates, the need to demonstrate results like never before: Such is the landscape most government agencies are facing under the ARRA.
	Governments on the Edge: Surviving the Financial Crisis Although there is no magic strategy that will turn the present global financial crisis around, governments around the world can find the seeds of long-term advantage in the decisions they make now.
	A Nation in Transition Learn about how to tackle the tough issues facing the new administration. We report on "Redesigning Government to Meet the Challenges of the 21st Century," "The Role of Private and Public Sectors in Protecting Data" and "Web 2.0: The Future of Collaborative Government."
	Driving State Transformation in an Economic Downturn With the obvious challenges it presents, the downturn also offers an opportunity to attack both the current crisis and the longstanding structural problems that hobble government operations.
	2009 Industry Outlook: Challenging Times, Emerging OpportunitiesExplore sector-specific insights on issues facing companies in the coming year, as well as guidance to help executives weather the current downturn and position their organizations for future growth.
	Putting Risk in the Comfort Zone: Nine Principles for Building the Risk Intelligent Enterprise In today’s environment, it’s natural to focus risk management efforts on protecting existing assets: sheltering market cap; shielding investments; safeguarding property, plant, and equipment. But tough times call for expansive thinking, not hunkering down.
	Global Economic Research Explore leadership and commentary on topics such as consumer confidence, deflation, the business cycle and a wealth of other issues related to economics. Review some of our most recent research about Q4 2008 and Q1 2009 issues.
	Deloitte Debates: Frameworks for Decision-Making This weekly series explores multiple sides of today's pressing business issues and examines the difficult choices executives face in today’s economic environment. Visit our library to read current and past Debates.
	Administration of Change: Perspective on the Obama Impact Barry Salzberg, chief executive officer, Deloitte LLP, provides his perspective on the potential for transformational change. Read his introduction, and explore our industry- and issue-focused insights.

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