Driving the Point

by Paula Santonocito

Last week, The Detroit News reported that few members of the Presidential Task Force on the Auto Industry (the people charged with helping save the U.S. auto industry) drive American cars.

The Detroit News viewed public records to arrive at its findings, which other media outlets also reported.

Does it really matter what cars these people drive? Yes, but not for the reason you might think.

A global economy, in concept, means goods and services transcend national borders. Ideally, the "world" business model creates a wider variety of products for consumers, and arguably job opportunities for more workers.

Of course this kind of environment also creates more competition. If a company has lagged behind with regard to innovation and efficiencies it will have more difficulty competing in a larger arena.

Basically, when the marketplace impacts product demand and alters price points, industry players must adjust in order to thrive (survive).

It doesn't matter whether the products are automobiles or talent management technology.

Are customers choosing your competitors' products? What drives their decisions?