What to expect in 2006

It's time to look into Wisconsin's future. That's right, all the way to 2006: Slow, steady growth. Continued concern about a shortage of skilled labor. The struggle to contain rising health-care costs. Signs of renewed vigor in some areas of manufacturing. A quick glance at the calendar shows the future is now, so the CRBJ asked business leaders and experts to share their thoughts on what lies ahead for Wisconsin....

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SOLUTIONS

Well-designed compensation plan can create a focused, motivated work force

How can human resource managers design a better compensation system? And how do you get your employees to appreciate that system?... > Full text

International market can really open your eyes

EXPERTISE

Adding Roth to 401(k) requires some planning

Communication with employees is critical to a successful transition.... > Full text

Easy ways to become a better leader

Business with purpose perfected at Artful Home

Only fools rush in to job market; be wise and take your time

POLITICS

Victory in Business Plan Contest goes a long way

Mithridion, the 2005 winner, continues to feel the impact; entrants sought for 2006.... > Full text

VIEWS

Don't shut the truth out of sick-leave debate

Lately, it seems, there is always a new controversy that pits the Madison business community against certain progressive forces. Whether it's the local minimum wage or the smoking-ban ordinance, many of these debates have seemed almost cartoonish, with both sides being starkly drawn and the rhetoric overblown.... > Full text

Bernanke's inflation approach could create a bullish market

TRAVEL

For many companies, benefits of global travel outweigh hassles

Call it touching base, face time, going to see for themselves or simply making eye contact. More business travelers than ever are winging around the world to connect with clients, vendors, manufacturers and counterparts at their company's foreign locations.... > Full text

TECH

Going after Google

Microsoft's foray into online services could be made easier with acquisitions.... > Full text

GM smiles on Janesville's tech-savvy work force

GOOD WORKS

United Way donations on track to beat goal

Despite speculation that donor fatigue would limit charitable giving, corporate executives and salaried employees at Madison companies really came through for the 2005 Dane County United Way campaign, organizers said.... > Full text

EXECUTIVE PROFILE

'Fabulous Farm Babe' is passionate about her job

FOCUS

Need help shrinking your energy bills?

Just like residential customers, businesses are trying to become more energy efficient, but businesses are faced with challenges beyond turning out the lights, lowering the thermostat and putting plastic over the windows. Wisconsin has several programs to help businesses assess their energy needs.... > Full text

FAMILY BUSINESS

Husband-wife team 'fell into' financial service

Their long, twisting paths crossed at an H&R Block convention.... > Full text