New Zealand business is currently concerned about “people, processes and technology”, says Auckland Chamber of Commerce and EEO Trust Chair Michael Barnett after a road-trip through the provinces.

 

When Chambers of Commerce research revealed that people issues are seen as critical to boosting productivity, the EEO Trust was invited to participate in a roadshow taking the productivity message to businesses throughout the northern half of the North Island. Hundreds of employers attended the roadshow which visited 13 centres from Northland to Taupo in October 2005.

 

“We found a surprising amount of consistency in employers’ concerns around the region,” says Barnett. “Whether people are in business in Napier or Kaitaia they’re concerned about people, processes and technology, and good leadership is a prerequisite.

 

“They’re paying attention to recruiting the right people, training and encouraging them, providing leadership and establishing good measurable processes. Employers are also identifying appropriate technology which truly adds value,” he says. “It’s relatively simple stuff, no more than common sense really, but essential if you want to make bad times good or good times better!”