This activity has been designed to give students experience formatting a Formal Business Report. For this activity, students will open a Microsoft Word text document that is already keyed but is unfor

Georgia Competitiveness Initiative Report

Prepared by

Student Name

The Georgia Chamber of Commerce

July 2012

INTRODUCTION: GEORGIA—THE ECONOMIC LEADER OF THE SOUTH……..1

Areas of Focus...........................................................................11

Business Climate.........................................................12

Education & Workforce Development..............14

Innovation.......................................................................16

Infrastructure................................................................18

Global Commerce.....................................................20

Government Efficiency...........................................22

CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

REFERENCES

INTRODUCTION: GEORGIA—THE ECONOMIC LEADER OF THE SOUTH

Throughout Georgia’s history, state government and the business community have worked together to grow the economy and create a high quality of life for those who call our state home. As a result of that partnership, Georgia has been the economic leader of the South, one with an enviable logistics system, top tier research universities, world class technical education, a robust agricultural sector, abundant natural resources and a positive global reputation–all of which contribute to our ability to attract, retain and grow both jobs and investment.

To ensure that Georgia’s future is bright, the state must focus not only on what is needed to successfully emerge from the recent recession but also to remain competitive for decades to come. The Georgia Competitiveness Initiative–a partnership between public and private sectors– was created by Governor Nathan Deal to enhance the state’s economic development strategy.

As a result, the Initiative centered on six key areas that, together, have and will continue to form the foundation for long-term economic success. These are also the key areas that site selection consultants use to evaluate locations:

Business Climate

Education and Workforce Development

Innovation

Infrastructure

Global Commerce

Government Efficiency and Effectiveness

Business Climate

Georgia’s reputation as a business-friendly state has been demonstrated through both past economic success and numerous national rankings and accolades. Maintaining that climate – one that supports existing industry, new corporate locations, small business and entrepreneurs – must remain at the heart of any economic development strategy. By modernizing incentives, revising tax provisions, and leveraging our quality of life, Georgia can ensure continued success in the future. “Provide incentives that reward growth and support established industry to increase Georgia’s ability to compete with other states in attracting new companies or expanding existing ones.”

Education & Workforce Development

A supportive business climate, sound economic development strategy, and world-class infrastructure are of little value to business without a dependable pipeline of qualified workers. Insisting on excellence, promoting post-secondary options for learning, and ensuring that Georgia’s curriculum is adequately preparing future employees are all critical components to creating a workforce that will attract quality jobs. “Focus on adaptability and flexibility within the pre-K through 12 system so that students are prepared to work or be trained to work upon graduation.”

Innovation

Innovation plays an important strategic role in both the growth of traditional industries and the continued diversification of the state’s economy. Georgia is fortunate to have multiple incubators for cutting-edge research and start-up companies but lacks the infrastructure needed to fully leverage these opportunities. Georgia can grow into a more attractive and permanent home for entrepreneurs and new industries through an increased focus on providing support, an infusion of available capital, as well as the creation of an environment where entrepreneurs and new industries can thrive. “Stop brain drain. Students take Georgia investments out of our state. We need to coordinate programs to keep them in Georgia.”

Infrastructure

For half a century, Georgia’s transportation assets, affordable energy, expansive telecommunications networks, and abundant natural resources were highlights of successful economic recruitment efforts. As other states and nations made investments in their own infrastructure in order to compete, Georgia maintained the status quo and that advantage is diminishing. Reinvestment in and expansion of these assets, including long-term planning, is critical to the state’s economic future.

Global Commerce

The 1996 Olympics placed Georgia on a global stage that, combined with world-class logistics assets such as the ports and international airport, has resulted in increased exports, foreign direct investment, and companies doing business globally. Ensuring that Georgia companies are ready to maximize international opportunities for growth, identifying emerging markets, and promoting the state as a great place for tourism are all key to continued growth.

Government Efficiency

Businesses depend on state government to operate in an efficient manner, providing services and support in a way that does not impede growth. Georgia has been fortunate to have been recognized for such efficiency in the past, consistently receiving AAA bond ratings and accolades from national business and government experts. Retaining and enhancing that reputation is key to attracting new investment and job creation. “Reduce red tape or bureaucratic issues that impede progress of economic development.”

CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

Despite a state government that is consistently recognized for its efficiency and pro-business environment, Georgia was hit particularly hard by the recent economic recession. Multiple signs point toward recovery. State revenues have trended upward since mid-2010. Traffic to the ports continues to increase. The Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD) has announced numerous location and expansion projects throughout the past year. However, business still faces challenges.

REFERENCES

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Hegarty, N. (2010). Application of the academic motivation scale to graduate school students. The Journal of Human Resource and Adult Learning, 6(2), 48-48-55. Retrieved from http://search.proquest.com/docview/867401296? accountid=12962.

Irani, T., Telg, R., Scherler, C., & Harrington, M. (2003). Personality type and its relationship to distance education students' course perceptions and performance. Quarterly Review of Distance Education, 4(4), 445-445-453. Retrieved from http://search.proquest.com/docview/231214590?accountid=12962.

Mupinga, D. M., Nora, R. T., & Yaw, D. C. (2006). The learning styles, expectations, and needs of online students. College Teaching, 54(1), 185-185-189. Retrieved from http://search.proquest.com/docview/274679946?accountid=12962.