Bright spots in bleak economy

Posted by Courtney E. Howard

At a time of recession, when a majority of businesses are slashing budgets, eyeing the bottom line, continually conscious of the dwindling profits, how is it that other companies are growing, acquiring other firms, and expanding their portfolio product and services? What are they doing right? A great deal, I can only assume.

Common and central themes I have noticed among those technology firms in the mil-aero industry that are flourishing, even in the wake of what might be another economic depression (Curtiss-Wright and Kontron immediately come to mind), include: acceptance, partnership, and planning.

At a Kontron-hosted event this week, Norbert Hauser, vice president of global marketing at Kontron admitted that company management and personnel expect a decline in business over the next six to nine months, due to continued economic decline across the globe; yet, he and his colleagues also anticipate a full recovery, and more. They are realistic about attainable goals in the near term, accepting of situations outside of their control, and bullish on the future. I find it admirable.

At the same time, successful firms such as Kontron are investing in partnerships--not only with other, complementary industry vendors, but also with the user community. Executives continue to forge relationships with industry innovators, and to connect with systems designers and systems integrators seeking sound products and advice in these especially uncertain times.

Finally, executives at these organizations are proactively planning for the future. They have a roadmap in place and, when the global economy improves, they intend to act--deliberately and with precision.

For more executive-level insights, news, and announcements, be certain to visit the Defense Executive section of Milaero.com daily. Additionally, let your peers in the industry know what changes you have instituted to see your firm through trying economic times by commenting below or starting a discussion in the Command Post community (http://community.milaero.com/).