Each year, the Pittsburgh Technology Council conducts an annual survey of its members that covers a variety of topics – overall satisfaction with the Council, the value of various products and services, and new this year, the top business challenges expected to be faced over the next twelve months. Over 950 business and technology professionals answered this question, and their responses are shown in the table below (respondents were able to select more than one choice):
|
Challenge |
Count |
% Total |
| Business Development |
502 |
52.5% |
| Talent Attraction (Experienced) |
456 |
47.6% |
| Marketing/Exposure |
403 |
42.1% |
| Talent Retention |
287 |
30.0% |
| Staying Informed of Industry Trends |
246 |
25.7% |
| Talent Development |
244 |
25.5% |
| Talent Attraction (Entry-Level) |
234 |
24.5% |
| Product Development |
215 |
22.5% |
| Health Insurance |
193 |
20.2% |
| Access to Funding/Capital |
177 |
18.5% |
| Ease of Business Travel |
143 |
14.9% |
| Energy-Related Issues |
126 |
13.2% |
| Commercialization of R&D |
93 |
9.7% |
| Legal/Regulatory Issues |
85 |
8.9% |
| Business Taxes |
73 |
7.6% |
Interestingly, despite today’s complex business environment, the most prominent challenges are fairly simple (though perhaps not in practice): finding new customers and attracting/retaining/developing employees. Challenges such as health insurance, energy, and business taxes are all surprisingly low on the list, especially given the attention being paid to them during this election season.
What do you think of these rankings? Agree? Disagree? Leave a comment!
Encountering some of these challenges right now? Contact us to learn how we can help you overcome some of these pressing issues – for free as part of your membership!
