In the modern global economy, prosperity is a nation’s choice. Nations choose prosperity if they organize their policies, laws and institutions based on productivity. Nations choose poverty, or limit their wealth, if they allow their policies to erode the productivity of business. They limit their wealth if skills are reserved only for a few. They limit their wealth when business success is secured by family connections or government concessions rather than productivity. – Michael E. Porter, The Competitive Advantage Of Nations.
Speed and efficiency are two words that are often under consideration when the matter of business facilitation is raised for discussion. Many Barbadians are aware that this country is becoming less attractive, as countries that had not in the past invested in education and health care are now doing so and with a strong work ethic, are becoming more attractive as destinations for investment, leisure and business.
There is a great temptation to immerse oneself in a discussion about the great efficiencies that information technology can bring and the value of those hand-held devices each Barbadian adult now possesses. However, ICTs superimposed on a business culture that sees no benefit in such efficiencies will be of limited benefit.
Is it clear that within the context of Barbadian business, speed and efficiency are rewarded? Does the employee who exhibits these skills stand a better chance of promotion? Does the business that exhibits these standards stand to land the most lucrative contracts?
Individuals naturally do what is most beneficial to their survival.
There is a perception in Barbados, whether justified or not, that success is based on who you know. Thus, it may very well be that the energies that should be directed at improving efficiencies are diverted into ensuring that the principals of businesses and employees, whether in the public or private sector, secure the connections that will ensure success.
While we could debate some of the points made by Michael Porter, it is a fact that Barbados can only prosper in this highly competitive world if high standards are rewarded. Unfortunately it seems that we are moving away from these ideals of pride and industry.
Chronic inefficiencies will breed corruption, as it is very tempting for individuals to pay extra to have their matters expedited where the official system is inefficient. Bribery then leads to greater inefficiency and inflates the cost of doing business.
It is not easy to change a culture and while family connections and government concessions do play a role in most countries, the government and the private sector do not, in those countries, systematically hinder the emergence of those who do not have those advantages.
If individuals and businesses continue to believe that there is no advantage in speed and efficiency, they will never pursue it and Barbados will see a reversal in its fortunes. This cultural shift will be difficult but it is clear that we cannot continue as we are – we must choose.
We must choose prosperity or poverty.
