During a downturn, many businesses shift their focus to micro analysis, especially an examination of costs. This poses both a risk and an opportunity.

The risk is that this micro-level awareness comes at the expense of macro strategy, mistakenly reducing a minor cost without realising the impact it has on revenue streams. The opportunity is, of course, to 'cut the fat' and improve the efficiency of your business for now and the long term.

The current Shirlaws Conferences (being held this week in the UK) incorporate some useful tools to ensure our clients seize the opportunity, without taking unnecessary risks. How confident are you about your efficiency?

The Final Frontier (for less than 100 Quid)

This group of school children photographed outer space, with combined costs of less than (Pound)100. Altitude is determined by your Attitude...not how much you spend to get there.

Thermometer Terrorism

This is an alarmist article, so rest assured that a cheap thermometer isn't going to bring down an aeroplane. Still, it's something to think about next time you fly. Or not.

For Sale: The $100 house

In terms of recession efficiency, the $100 House stories coming from the US are both scary and exciting. The key is to see through the short term gloom, and into an opportunity that could promise renewal for new generations. Can you imagine if, in 20 years, the rust-belt home of failing car industries is the world's next artistic hub?

Environmental Profitability

Speaking of new generations, remember that the environment can be an efficiency guide for your business as well. Savings by "being green" can be made right now, when they're desirable, and when done right this can help position your company's green credentials ahead of the coming upswing.

Intranet Joke of the Week

Recently launched into the "real world" and shocked by the expenses that came with it, Bob was complaining about the high cost of car insurance.

"If you got married," teased his friend, "the premium would be lower."

Bob responded: "But wouldn't that be like buying an airline just to get free peanuts?"

Until next week,

Jacob Aldridge and the Shirlaws Team

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