What About Germany?

摘要

We Germans often discuss Asian economies, and yes, we sometimes refer to Asian PCB makers as "yellow dragons." This, however, is not so much a derogatory term, but rather a grudging acknowledgment of our inferiority; it's hard to fight dragons. While Asia didn't invent globalization, it has adapted to this process to its advantage much more successfully than Germany. For example, the German PCB industry will shrink by approximately 25 percent, order entry is down by 6.5 percent, and PCB industry employment will drop 15% (compared to last year). Some people say our political leadership has proven too faint hearted to implement the reforms necessary to make the German economy competitive in the face of new challenges. The German public is to blame as well. It has not yet shown sufficient willingness to let go of certain luxuries that the current situation affords. However, there are exceptions. Companies also exist that have seen the challenges, faced them, adapted and whose success hopefully will inspire others to follow. What makes these German companies successful? They all share the same mindset, with the following characteristics.