A company has a couple of good years, usually due to the economy, and the CEO catches the "gazillion-dollar disease." This commonly known malady tends to flare up when they confuse strategy talk with revenue targets.

What does a manager mean when he or she says, "we need to kick some butt and make some heads roll?" Do managers actually manage this way and what does it accomplish long term?  Learn the benefits of leadership rather than “management by hammer.”

The NAW/DREF Foundation published another "Facing the Forces of Change" study in early 1999. This study examines the convergence of E-Commerce, Supply Chain Integration, Globalization, and Alliances on the distribution industry.

Well-selected and executed initiatives can generate positive cash flow in weeks. The key is to identify opportunities that offer incremental payback.  In a down economy, fight the temptation to become reactive and defensive. Consider opening your offensive playbook for ideas on transforming the downturn into a strategic opportunity. Here are some offensive "plays" that may help you regain the initiative.

This article was written at the start of 2002 to share perspective and optimism for the coming future.  Its motivational qualities still apply and are worth a read.