In a recent (11/10/08) Business Week cover story, strategist Michael Porter poses and good question about the political and economic direction of the country…Where is the Strategic Thinking?  More to the specifics…

1. What are we doing about the constraints that degrade America’s entrepreneurial strength?
2. What are we doing about the continuing erosion of educated citizens and foundation learning?
3. What are we doing about the principle disconnects between technical, social, political and economic policy?

Porter argues for some reality-based strategy analysis of national challenges, resource management concerns and the many factors that shape and drive the country’s competitive stance in the world.  The balance of national planning and global leadership?  Or the stab at national leadership and global development?  These are important questions at every level of the political/economic discussion.

Stepping Into the Cauldron

The optimist would suggest that we live in interesting times, and further, that we have some exciting frontiers.  In our precepts of strategic thinking as outlined in Prepared and Resolved, the opportunities for advancement are framed by two things – business reality and natural goals.  Our business reality is painted with VUCA – the volatility, uncertainty, complexity and ambiguity* of the world today.  Our natural goals remain, in balance, the economic performance, competitive edge, customer relevance and corporate stewardship of the realities we guide and represent.  These are touchpoints for every organization today.

Michael Porter’s question is a good one for the leadership of the nation.  Who will come together to construct the answers that will make sense for individuals and society?  And, how will we get “prepared and resolved” for change?

* Wikipedia: VUCA