Indianapolis, September 26, 2008 – Butler University, Ice Miller and Inside INdiana Business announced today the results of the second annual statewide survey of Indiana's chief executive officers and senior executives. The survey, "The State of Our Business – A Perspective from Indiana Executives," provides insight and understanding with respect to significant issues facing CEOs, the state's role in attracting and retaining business, specific state initiatives and employment related issues.
The project partners identified over 1,187 CEOs and other executive officers as potential respondents. Of those contacted, 227 responded to a comprehensive online survey designed by Butler University.
The partners addressed several themes to examine in greater detail including: CEO challenges and issues, the state's economic stability, the state's role in economic development, human resources and diversity issues, education, technology and general interest.
"In some cases, the executives' decisions were consistent with the 2007 findings," stated Gerry Dick, president, Inside INdiana Business. "For example, we found that corporate reputation still tops the list as the most significant issue for CEOs and the educational system, once again, is viewed as a disadvantage for Indiana compared to surrounding states."
In comparison, the survey found that the consistent execution of business strategy and sustained steady top-line growth have become more important in 2008. "It's not surprising that these issues would be on the minds of the CEOs during these times of economic uncertainty," stated Byron Myers, chief managing partner, Ice Miller LLP. "We were encouraged to learn, however, that even in an unstable economy, a number of companies are still planning to add jobs in 2008."
With respect to the state's role in economic development, respondents rated education as the most critical issue in determining Indiana's future economic development. “It is not surprising that for the second consecutive year education was rated the most critical issue for economic development success,” said Chuck Williams, dean, Butler University College of Business Administration. “A strong educational system is key to a successful workforce. By being a partner and advocate for educational reform, Indiana executives can play a major role in improving schools and making Indiana’s economic outlook stronger.”
The project partners will continue to benchmark the results from the 2008 survey and to monitor, discuss and analyze the state's progress. A full summary of the report can be found online at: www.inceosurvey.com.
With a fully-integrated portfolio of television, radio, Internet, permission-based email and on-demand business news products, Inside INdiana Business delivers superior journalism trusted by an educated and affluent audience.
Headquartered in Indianapolis, Inside INdiana Business has developed a network of the state's leading television, radio and print mediums to deliver the business news only Indiana's business news leader can provide. As a result, our daily business news can be watched, heard and read in Indiana, Michigan, Illinois (including Chicagoland), Ohio and Kentucky.
Sally Fillbrunn Director of Sales and Marketing Grow INdiana Media Ventures 317.275.2014 sfillbrunn@InsideINdianaBusiness.com
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Courtney Tuell Director of Public Relations Butler University 317.940.9807 (direct) or 317.908.2307 (cellular) ctuell@butler.edu
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