Seeking Business Opportunities

The following appeared as part of an article in a magazine devoted to regional life:

“Corporations should look to the city of Helios when seeking new business opportunities or a new location. Even in the recent recession, Helios’s unemployment rate was lower than the regional average. It is the industrial center of the region, and historically it has provided more than its share of the region’s manufacturing jobs. In addition, Helios is attempting to expand its economic base by attracting companies that focus on research and development of innovative technologies.”

Discuss how well reasoned . . . etc.

I generally agree with the reasoning presented. The writer wishes to keep the city as a preferred choice for corporations seeking new business opportunities. It shows a forward thinking and a leadership aspiring for better opportunities for its people. New business not only bring in job opportunities, they also add to administration's coffers in form of direct and indirect taxes with both the company and the people contributing. With increased prosperity and more funds at its disposal the administration can work on improving the life of its citizens. However it is assumed that the concerned area has excellent environmental laws and meticulously planned industrial allocation. Without that the same industries may lead to problems and degradation of the area.

The writer points at unemployment rate to support his line of thinking. I agree with it as mushrooming new business keep unemployment in check. This is supported by the fact that the area has been an industrial centre historically and harbours a lot of manufacturing. Manufacturing is generally labour intensive. Even automated plants need skilled on-floor technicians, engineers, inventory managers etc. Hence it is logical to assume and reason that the area has lesser unemployment due to its industrial leadership.

The attempt to diversify the region's industry portfolio is a smart move and I agree that it can make the region more attractive. The fact that this diversification is into research and development makes the decision smarter. The research may be into subjects concerning current industries or something different. This has the potential of making the region attractive to not only the current industries but will also attract newer industries. All in all this can cement the region's position as the leading industrial centre. With these decisions in place, corporations will definitely look to the city when seeking new business opportunities.