Deloitte Insights Podcast

Creative shopping keeps spirits bright

Mon, 12 Dec 2011 17:59:49 +0530

The holidays are getting a little more personal this year, according to Deloitte’s 26th Annual Holiday Consumer Spending Survey. Respondents plan to spend more money on socializing away from home, and less on gifts and gift cards this season. Nearly one-third of respondents also said it’s important for retailers to have multiple channels and opportunities for consumers to shop from online to in-store.

Shift index: Long- and short-term impacts on global economies

Mon, 3 Oct 2011 20:13:13 +0530

"In the grip of economic uncertainty, many executives are holding their breath, trying to improve short-term productivity and hoping things will go back to normal. But according to the Shift Index, an annual study conducted by Deloitte LLP’s Center for the Edge, normal no longer exists. Forces such as digital technology and public policy have changed the way organizations will achieve long-term growth and profitability. Learn more as John Hagel, co-chairman, Deloitte LLP Center for the Edge, and Carl Steidtmann, chief economist and director of Consumer Business, Deloitte Research, Deloitte Services LP, discuss in the latest episode of Deloitte Insights."

A Naughty or Nice Holiday Season? 2010 Consumer Spending Expectations

Fri, 5 Nov 2010 21:03:45 +0000

In this episode of Deloitte Insights, Deloitte LLP's Bob Campbell , vice chairman and U.S. state government leader,Governor Tom Ridge, senior advisor, and Bill Eggers, global director of the public sector industry of Deloitte Research, discuss the enormous challenges facing the new governors and how best to approach them.

A Naughty or Nice Holiday Season? 2010 Consumer Spending Expectations

Wed, 10 Nov 2010 21:03:45 +0000

Will this be naughty or nice holiday season? In this episode of Deloitte Insights, Carl E. Steidtmann, chief economist and director of Consumer Business at Deloitte Research in Deloitte Services LP, and Alison Paul, the vice chairman and U.S. Retail leader at Deloitte LLP, discuss 2010 consumer spending expectations.

Distressed Real Estate: Beyond the Downturn

Fri, 5 Nov 2010 21:03:45 +0000

What aspects of the market have changed, and what aspects are cyclical? Financial Advisory Services LLP's David Williams, chief executive officer, and E.J. Huntley, principal, discuss the real estate landscape in the latest episode of Deloitte Insights.

Selling an S Corporation

Mon, 25 Oct 2010 21:03:45 +0000

Looking to Sell an S Corporation? Deloitte Tax LLP’s Kyle Woitel, partner, and Ryan Stecz, senior manager, discuss the tax landscape and considerations in the latest episode of Deloitte Insights.

Tax Implications on the Last Mile of Finance

Thu, 23 Sep 2010 21:03:45 +0000

In this episode of Deloitte Insights, John Gimpert, partner, Deloitte & Touche LLP, and Stephen Day, director, Deloitte Tax LLP, discuss how to improve the efficiency, governance, and quality of your financial close and reporting process.

The Corporate Lattice: A Model to Support Change

Thu, 23 Sep 2010 21:03:45 +0000

In the latest episode of Deloitte Insights, Corporate Lattice co-author Cathy Benko, vice chairman and chief talent officer of Deloitte LLP, discusses her most recent best-selling book and how the lattice framework can help companies adapt management strategies to the changing world of work.

The Power of Pull & Leveraged Growth

Fri, 17 Sep 2010 21:03:45 +0000

In this episode of Deloitte Insights, Power of Pull author John Hagel, director, Deloitte Consulting LLP, and co-chairman of Deloitte’s Center for the Edge, discusses long-term economic changes that have created a shift from push to pull, and how companies can be successful in this new business landscape.

Risk Management: Surviving and Thriving With Unconventional Thinking and Calculated Risk Taking

Wed, 4 Aug 2010 21:03:45 +0000

Insights from the book, Surviving and Thriving in Uncertainty: Creating the Risk Intelligent Enterprise and related hot topics in the world of risk management.

Media Consumption Habits Across Generations: Rethinking What You Know

Wed, 7 Jul 2010 21:03:45 +0000

Power has gone to the people when it comes to media interaction. Hear a discussion about Deloitte's State of the Media Democracy survey results and implications.

Manufacturing M & A: Doing Deals in a Reset World

Wed, 7 Jul 2010 21:03:45 +0000

Manufacturing is seeing an uptick in M & A activity. What should you know about doing deals in the wake of the Great Recession?

Executive Compensation and the CFO

Wed, 7 Jul 2010 21:03:45 +0000

Hear a discussion about the chief financial officer's (CFO's) role in improving the executive compensation process.

Three Things Your Chief Sustainability Officer Won’t Tell You

Wed, 16 Jun 2010 21:03:45 +0000

What does sustainability mean in practical business terms? The answer might surprise you.

The Cyber Savvy State Government

Wed, 16 Jun 2010 21:03:45 +0000

How can governments develop a road map to address cyber security threats that can affect our economy, services and privacy?

Recovery and Resiliency: Emerging Stronger and Smarter

Wed, 16 Jun 2010 21:03:45 +0000

How might the pending upturn impact your company’s growth strategies, and what should you consider as you emerge from the recession?

Emerging Economy Meets Emerging Markets: Time to Grow?

Mon, 8 Mar 2010 21:03:45 +0000

A discussion about investment trends in emerging markets and considerations such as Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) compliance.

Tax Risk: A Call to Action

Tue, 23 Feb 2010 21:03:45 +0000

How you can effectively integrate tax into your organization's overall risk management program.

Bank Governance: Preparing for Greater Scrutiny & Oversight

Wed, 10 Feb 2010 21:03:45 +0000

How financial institutions can better define risk governance goals, responsibilities and the scope of their board committees.

Cloud Computing: Impacting IT and the Bottom Line

Wed, 20 Jan 2010 21:03:45 +0000

This episode of Deloitte Insights discusses the potential disruptions and opportunities cloud computing presents.

Business in 2010 and Beyond

Tue, 12 Jan 2010 21:03:45 +0000

How should you plan for the upturn in the economy? This episode discusses the various scenarios and strategies for uncertain times.

The Great Transformation

Tue, 15 Dec 2009 21:03:45 +0000

The recession may already be over, but the effects will be felt for a long time. Deloitte LLP Chief Economist Carl Steidtmann discusses the ramifications.

Persevering in the Continued Downturn - What Do you Do When You've Already Done It All?

Thu, 10 Dec 2009 21:03:45 +0000

States have been facing significant revenue shortfalls resulting in continued projected budget deficits. Even with the major cuts taken in 2009, more cuts in expenditures and services are anticipated. What do you do when you've already done it all?

Deloitte's 2009 Education Survey

Mon, 30 Nov 2009 21:03:45 +0000

Education is one of the top national priorities. Barry Salzberg, Chief Executive Officer, Deloitte LLP, discusses the key findings in Deloitte's 2009 Education Survey.

Creating and Preserving Value — Guidance for Effective Risk Intelligent Governance

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 21:03:45 +0000

Many directors still struggle with risk governance. This podcast discusses practical ways board members can jump-start the risk governance discussion.

Holiday Cheer Makes a Comeback: 2009 Consumer Spending Expectations

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 21:30:23 +0000

Stacy Janiak and Carl E. Steidtmann discuss the results of Deloitte's 24th Annual Holiday Survey in the latest episode of Deloitte Insights.

Risky Business: Optimizing Contract Compliance in the Changing Oil and Gas Industry

Sat, 29 Aug 2009 21:30:23 +0000

With recent economic and oil price fluctuations, minimizing contract risk and increasing contract compliance in the Oil and Gas industry has greater importance.

Innovation Tournaments: Driving Innovation From Within

Sat, 8 Aug 2009 21:30:23 +0000

Innovation can come from anywhere. Some companies today are turning to their employees or customers as a source of innovation.

Building Toward Sustainable Lodging

Wed, 29 Jul 2009 21:30:23 +0000

Some hoteliers have a cynical reaction to the green movement, as it represents a departure from the status quo. Many are skeptical that hotels can adopt more environmental practices while maintaining cost control and guest satisfaction levels. Highlights: Are there any uniform industry standards when it comes to sustainable or green hotel practices? How can hotel companies “earn points” to obtain Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification? What are the pitfalls of transforming the older hotel facilities into environmentally friendly facilities What should lodging companies be aware of to mitigate the risk of misleading public disclosures and to promote transparency? Guests: Anthony Campanelli, senior manager, Deloitte Financial Advisory Services LLP Rod Millott, partner, Deloitte & Touche LLP Christopher Rizzo, Environmental Practice Area lawyer with Carter, Ledyard & Milburn LLP

Relationship Risks and the Impact of Current Economic Conditions at the Enterprise Level

Wed, 29 Jul 2009 21:30:23 +0000

In today's economy, many companies are highly dependent upon external business relationships to achieve business objectives and shareholder value. More and more, corporate growth and business success are supported through outsourcing, licensing, strategic alliances and joint development arrangements. These extended business relationships comprise what is now a widespread business model: the extended enterprise. However, contracting alone cannot guarantee the success of a relationship or performance accountability, and does not eliminate the associated risks. In short, you cannot outsource certain risks. Our guest speakers discuss proactive strategies that can help enterprise-level relationships move to create trust and value. Highlights: What kinds of risks might a company encounter with extended business relationships at the enterprise level? How does an organization's risk profile change with economic cycles? How might a company put together an approach for a sustainable contract risk and compliance process? How can executives prepare themselves to take advantage of an upward economy? Guests: Sandy Pundmann, partner, and Governance Risk & Regulatory Audit & Enterprise Risk Services functional leader, Deloitte & Touche LLP David Zechnich, partner, Contract Risk & Compliance, Deloitte & Touche LLP

Pro Bono: The New Currency in Corporate Philanthropy

Wed, 8 Jul 2009 14:01:06 +0000

Corporate giving has traditionally involved writing a check and calling it a day. But at a time when demands for nonprofit services are on the rise, cash donations are on the decline. Meanwhile, a national call-to-service is spotlighting the power of volunteerism. Enter the new corporate citizen: Instead of donating money to pay for work, companies can cut out the middle man — through pro-bono engagement and skills-based volunteerism. If corporate philanthropy is expanded to include the prized commodity of workplace talent, the relationship can reap considerably more value — and do far more good — for nonprofits and communities in need. Highlights: The Deloitte Volunteer IMPACT Survey suggests many nonprofits and companies should think about pro bono as an actual currency. What exactly does that mean? Given the current pressures on revenue in both the private and nonprofit sectors, how can organizations go about making the investments needed to take advantage of skilled volunteers? How has Deloitte helped College Summit overcome organizational challenges through its pro-bono work? It sounds deceptively simple: Nonprofits are asking for money to pay for work, when they could just be asking companies for the work itself. Why isn't more of this happening? Guests: Dean Furbush, president, College Summit Evan Hochberg, national director, Community Involvement, Deloitte Services LP Humbelina Sanchez, director, Deloitte Consulting LLP

Sustaining the Growth Trajectory: Intelligent Risk Taking for Technology Companies

Tue, 30 Jun 2009 13:26:46 +0000

Growth is a goal for most organizations. However, for technology companies, growth is a strategic imperative, and rapid growth comes with a set of evolving risks. The technology industry is dynamic and fluid, lending itself to a constant flux of threats, but also plenty of opportunities. A threat that might severely impede a technology company at one stage of its lifecycle — such as the unexpected pullout of an important strategic partner — may dissipate over time as products are released and consistent revenue streams are established. Yet the disappearance of one risk will often be accompanied by the appearance of another. Highlights: The growth rate for most technology companies reaches a plateau at a certain stage. How can risk management be used to help companies avoid “flatlining?” Innovation fuels technology companies more so than any other industry. What are some ways the concept of Risk Intelligence can be used to foster innovation? What issues should technology companies consider when embarking on a merger or acquisition? The act of pursuing capital and courting investors can be a time-consuming task for executives, especially in these current economic times. How can an effective risk analysis help technology companies gain efficient access to capital? Guests: Mark Jensen, U.S. Audit and Enterprise Risk Services Technology leader, Deloitte & Touche LLP Eric Openshaw, vice chairman and U.S. Technology leader, Deloitte LLP

In-House or Out-of-House: Navigating the Changing Landscape of the Legal Industry

Tue, 30 Jun 2009 13:13:51 +0000

With the economic downturn impacting almost every industry, businesses have been challenged to cut cost while maintaining a strong enterprise. Some companies are reducing costs by bringing work normally performed by outside counsel or vendors in-house. As more companies do this, relationships between law firms, vendors and corporate legal departments are changing. Highlights: Many have speculated that the current downturn and corporate investigations resulting from failing businesses will lead to increase litigation in the next few years. In what areas might litigation be most prominent? As budgets tighten, what can law departments do to reduce costs without increasing their company's risk exposure? How can law departments capitalize on their information technology investments? Guests: David Williams, chief executive officer, Deloitte Financial Advisory Services LLP Mark Califano, head of Litigation, GE Capital

From Recession to Recovery: A Risk Intelligent Strategy for All Economic Times

Tue, 26 May 2009 15:48:28 +0000

Today's turbulent economic environment calls for greater attention to risk management than ever before. Stressors such as low consumer demand, limited access to credit, market uncertainty and the global recession can increase risk exposures far above acceptable levels — especially if risk management activities don't receive the proper amount of attention. It sounds somber, but there's good news. The volatile environment has also highlighted risk management as a key driver of value for business leaders who embrace the opportunities that risk can create. And, a strategic view of risk can help executives protect and pursue enterprise value throughout the recession and beyond. Highlights: What does it mean to be “Risk Intelligent,” and how does that play into today's current environment? During a recession, leaders need to be especially vigilant about aligning business goals with risk management objectives. What is the significance of this alignment? Should companies continue to take risks in a down economy — or is that considered sheer recklessness? What are some ways cost reduction opportunities could actually improve risk management effectiveness? Guests: Sandy Pundmann, partner, Deloitte & Touche LLP Tim Lupfer, director, Deloitte Consulting LLP Wim Eysink, partner, Deloitte Netherlands

Growth and Leverage: How Technology Companies Can Innovate and Thrive in Trying Times

Wed, 6 May 2009 14:28:59 +0000

Despite the challenging times, there are still incredible opportunities for innovators. And technology is the home of innovation. Industry veterans still expect to see significant new disruptive capabilities emerge — both in products and services. Additionally, it is predicted that there will be many interesting new ways of doing business that result from this economic crisis. Yet, it will take more than just being a great technology company to survive in the current environment. Organizations that focus on being a well-run company by identifying new revenue sources and maximizing enterprise efficiencies may well discover that they can deliver more value with fewer resources and thrive in the global economy. Highlights: * Until recently, the technology industry was expected to be significantly less impacted by the economic downturn; however, it now appears that the impact of the global recession was simply delayed, and the industry wasn't immune after all. How surprising is it that it played out this way? * How does the current downturn in tech compare to the crash-and-burn scenario that occurred in 2001? * What do you expect to see either in mergers and acquisitions or in other creative uses of the sector's strong cash position? * Are there any immediate growth opportunities on which tech companies can potentially capitalize? Guests: John Ciacchella, principal and technology industry leader, Deloitte Consulting LLP Eric Openshaw, vice chairman and U.S. technology leader, Deloitte LLP

Getting Ahead: How Leading U.S. Companies Are Approaching IFRS Today

Tue, 21 Apr 2009 16:56:56 +0000

Thoughtful planning is an effective way to manage long-term costs and avoid expensive surprises. As companies develop strategies for managing through the economic downturn and evaluate their short- and long-term priorities, some leaders are factoring International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) into their plans today. Recognizing the value of planning ahead and the need to competitively position the organization for the future, forward-thinking leaders in the U.S. are taking steps now to prepare their organizations for IFRS. Highlights: -The economy is in challenging times, and companies have a lot on their plates. Why are we talking about IFRS now? -How are companies responding to recent Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) developments regarding IFRS? -Converting to IFRS isn't just about a change in accounting policies. What areas will most likely be affected by a transition? -How will the role of chief financial officer (CFO) be changed by IFRS, and what can CFOs do to prepare? Guests: Donald J. (D.J.) Gannon, partner, Deloitte & Touche LLP Alfred Popken, principal, Deloitte & Touche LLP Joel Osnoss, partner, Deloitte & Touche LLP

Managing Fraud Risk: The Need for Prevention and Detection

Tue, 7 Apr 2009 14:44:47 +0000

When it comes to putting together a fraud risk program, executives may not know where to start, but just by figuring out which risks need to be addressed, and in what order, they've already won half the battle. Complacency is no solution: Preventing and detecting fraud is everyone's business. Highlights: What are some of the trends today that argue in favor of stronger fraud risk management on the part of organizations? What are some of the key elements of an effective fraud risk management program? What are some of the factors an organization may consider in order to determine how to respond to and assess allegations of fraud? What may be entailed in a “gap analysis?” Guests: James Cottrell, partner, Deloitte Financial Advisory Services LLP Mohammed Ahmed, senior manager, Deloitte Financial Advisory Services LLP

IFRS Summit: IFRS Adoption Considerations and Strategies

Tue, 24 Mar 2009 18:51:33 +0000

Welcome to the IFRS Summit with Sir David Tweedie: Top International Financial Reporting Standards' (IFRS) Challenges and Opportunities. Please listen as Christopher Caridi, vice president, assistant controller, Thomson Reuters; Chris Tanana, director of component financial control, Chrysler LLC; and Martin Wheatcroft, controller, vice president U.S. Accounting Services, National Grid, discuss IFRS adoption considerations and strategies with moderator Joel Osnoss, partner at Deloitte & Touche LLP. Recorded December 11, 2008, based on information available at the time.

IFRS Summit: A Dialogue with Sir David Tweedie, Chairman of the International Accounting Standards Board

Tue, 10 Mar 2009 18:38:32 +0000

Welcome to the IFRS Summit with Sir David Tweedie: Top International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) Challenges and Opportunities. Please listen as Sir David Tweedie, Chairman of the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) and the architect of IFRS, is interviewed by Robert Bruce, the UK's leading commentator on accounting and financial reporting issues. Recorded December 11, 2008, based on information available at the time.

Riding the Next Wave: The Strategic Value of Green IT for Business

Tue, 24 Feb 2009 15:58:40 +0000

Going green has never been more popular, especially now that a new U.S. administration is set to push the environment to the forefront of its agenda. Many businesses have already taken the lead by voluntarily implementing environmental programs, many of which focus on information technology (IT), particularly when it comes to cutting down on energy consumption. In the future, though, companies that have based policies on incremental or cosmetic changes run the risk of either playing catch up or going out of business. By contrast, those companies that adopt a more structured approach to deploying and managing their green technologies will be in the best position to capitalize on what's being called the next wave of green IT. As surfers know, it's much better to be riding a wave than to be rolled over by it. Highlights: - What do you see as the next wave in green IT? What's been termed the first iteration of green technology? - How can all units and functions of an organization be brought in to support sustainability programs? - Companies may have already taken internal steps to improve processes and cut waste, but if they're going to take that giant leap forward they will have to look to the development of new green technologies. What kinds of technologies will help companies make that leap? - Green IT solutions can be both far-reaching and expensive. How can companies undertake these solutions, especially during a severe downturn when they're trying to rein in costs? Guests: Lynda Pak, director, Deloitte Consulting LLP John Winstanley, associate partner, Deloitte MCS Ltd

Planning for a Rainy Day: Ways to Improve Efficiency and Cut Costs in the Aerospace and Defense Industry

Tue, 10 Feb 2009 16:32:27 +0000

If prizes were given out to industries that had the most cost overruns, delays and inefficiencies, aerospace and defense (A & D) would probably win hands down. On average, new weapons systems are coming in two years late, saddling taxpayers with nearly $300 billion in unanticipated costs. Human nature is partly to blame: Too many contractors presume a “sunny day” scenario, projecting budget requests that are based on nothing going wrong. But things are about to change. The industry is going to have to make some painful adjustments as Washington is forced to devote more of its resources to shore up the ailing economy. For the foreseeable future sunny days are likely to be few and far between. Highlights: * Why have so many efforts to reform the acquisitions system fallen short of expected results? * How can earned value management provide A & D program managers with accurate and reliable feedback on cost and schedule performance through the life cycles of their programs? * What kinds of challenges has supply chain complexity created for the A & D industry? * How do political considerations influence the procurement process? Guests: Tom Captain, vice chairman, Deloitte LLP John Coykendall, principal, Deloitte Consulting LLP Rod Mateer, partner, Deloitte & Touche LLP

Fending Off Digital Attacks: A Holistic Approach to Cybersecurity

Tue, 3 Feb 2009 16:49:47 +0000

We are under attack, and we may not know about it until it's too late. Over the last ten years, almost on a daily basis, cyber criminals have been mounting attacks against federal agencies and private industries, exploiting the same technologies and interconnectedness that have streamlined business and made life so convenient for consumers. Vandalism, fraud, identity theft and corporate espionage carried out by gangs of tech-savvy intruders are siphoning more than 100 billion dollars out of the economy annually. But it's the threat to national security that has really gotten Washington's attention. The burden of safeguarding sensitive data and computer networks falls on federal agencies, organizations, users and administrators alike; and while cybsersecurity systems may be expensive to build and maintain, the cost of doing nothing is greater by far. Highlights: -Which threats to cybersecurity should the government and private industry be most concerned about? -How can both the government and the private sector determine which data to secure, and at what level, when there is so much of it and not all data are equally critical? -Nine out of 10 chief information officers and chief security officers see cybercrime as a major business risk. Are organizations giving the priority to cybersecurity that they should? -What exactly is a cyber mindset, and how do we get from here to there? Guests: Colonel Gary McAlum, senior manager in the Federal Government Services Practice, Deloitte & Touche LLP General Harry Raduege, chairman, The Deloitte Center for Network Innovation, Deloitte & Touche LLP Amit Yoran, chairman and chief executive officer of NetWitness Corporation and previous director of the National Cyber Security Division of Homeland Security

Establishing Trust in Sovereign Wealth Funds: The Purpose and Objectives of the Santiago Principles

Tue, 27 Jan 2009 21:06:40 +0000

Until recently, few people knew what a Sovereign Wealth Fund (SWF) was, even though some of these funds have been in existence for decades. An SWF certainly doesn't always look or act like other investment vehicles. These special-purpose investment funds are owned by foreign governments whose policies may sometimes differ from the policies of the countries where they invest; thus SWFs sometimes generate controversy. To help ensure an appropriate level of comfort with the activities of SWFs, representatives of 26 countries hammered out a voluntary agreement called the “Generally Accepted Principles and Practices” (“GAPP”) for SWFs, commonly referred to as the “Santiago Principles.” If these principles work as intended, they should go a long way to achieving another important goal of the Santiago meeting — maintaining a stable global financial system and the free flow of capital and investment. Highlights: -The International Working Group of Sovereign Wealth Funds began its work in May 2008, and the Santiago Principles were unveiled in October. What were some of the motivating factors that led to this agreement, and why did the process from inception to final agreement move so rapidly? -Is it possible to distill the 24 Santiago Principles into major themes? -How might these principles help in establishing trust and allaying concerns about political or national security implications? -Given the current volatility of the global financial system, is the impact of SWFs likely to be dimininished, especially since much of their wealth comes from trade surpluses, which are shrinking, and commodities, whose prices have plummeted? Guests: Frank Dubas, partner, Deloitte & Touche LLP Omar Fahoum, chairman and chief executive officer, Deloitte - Middle East Aase-Aamda Lundgaard, partner and audit leader, Deloitte – Norway

Customizing Care: The Future of Personalized Medicine

Tue, 13 Jan 2009 17:42:25 +0000

In the same way you can walk into a high-end clothing store and be fitted for a custom-tailored suit, you may soon have the opportunity to go to your doctor's office and receive a custom-tailored treatment for your ailments. It's called personalized medicine — therapeutics and diagnostics that are targeted for specific ethnic, familial and other demographic groups based on their genetic profiles, certain biomarkers and environmental exposure. Not only are these treatments likely to be more effective, but they also have the potential to reduce adverse side effects and improve your quality of life. Highlights: * How can personalized medicine be beneficial for all stakeholders — businesses and consumers alike — as well as society as a whole? * Why is personalized medicine becoming more attractive to pharmaceutical companies than the so-called blockbuster drugs that have long bolstered their bottom line? * How can life sciences companies attain a high return on investment from personalized treatments in spite of the fact that the markets for them are smaller than they are for most conventional drugs? How can health plans rationalize covering the expense of personalized therapeutics for their members? * Health care innovations can challenge the status quo, and personalized medicine is unlikely to be an exception. What kind of disruption may this technology cause, and how slowly or rapidly might it be adopted? Guests: Terry Hisey, vice chairman, U.S. Life Sciences leader, Deloitte LLP Paul Keckley, Ph.D., executive director, Deloitte Center for Health Solutions, Deloitte LLP

Managing the Risks and Value of Data Assets: A New Look at Digital IDs

Tue, 6 Jan 2009 15:05:20 +0000

Who are you? How do you define your identity? Chances are you aren't thinking of your passwords, usernames and personal identification numbers as an integral part of who you are, but in fact, our virtual identities (IDs) are assuming ever greater importance in both our private and professional lives. What's more, from a business perspective, virtual identities are actually part of an organization's data assets, as well as a potential liability. Imagine the potential consequences of identity theft or unauthorized access to your medical records. With companies becoming more virtual, enterprises urgently need to manage identity assets across multiple applications and systems, and even among their ecosystem of business relationships. It may not be possible to destroy our digital identities once they're created, but it is certainly possible to protect them. Highlights: -What are some of the ramifications of the convergence of real-world identities with digital identities that can occur in credit card transactions, for example, or in e-commerce? -Why has it become so important for businesses to put in place programs to manage identities — not just of employees, but also of stakeholders, customers, third party contractors and vendors? -Not all data are equal. How do you weigh the value and risks of each data asset to set priorities? -We all know how much time and aggravation we spend trying to juggle or even remember all of our various passwords and usernames. How can an identity access management program make it easier for people to obtain the information they need while still making sure that information is secure? Guests: Mark Ford, principal, Security & Privacy Services, Deloitte & Touche LLP Rena Mears, partner, Security & Privacy Services, Deloitte & Touche LLP

Unlocking the Benefits of the Deal: How IT Can Capture M & A Synergies

Tue, 9 Dec 2008 15:56:13 +0000

Try starting out on a trip without a map, a global positioning system (GPS) or enough gas in your tank, and see how far you get. Companies contemplating a merger, acquisition (M & A) or divestiture, take heed: All those dreams of capturing synergies through higher revenues and lower costs may turn to dust if you don't incorporate information technology (IT) into the integration process from start to finish. By failing to invite IT to the party, companies may overpay for an acquisition and suffer buyer's remorse down the road. And once the transaction is completed, IT still has a crucial role to play in whether the expected synergies actually deliver on the promise of the deal. Here's the bottom line: Integration without IT is no integration at all. Highlights: -To what degree does leaving IT out in the cold contribute to deal failures? -In what ways can IT put all the relevant information together to support the targeted M & A goals, such as revenue growth and asset efficiency? -What is the role of the chief information officer (CIO) in merger, acquisition and divestiture activities? What are the key elements of data management that need to be addressed? Guests: Peter Blatman, principal, Deloitte Consulting LLP Mark Walsh, principal, Deloitte Consulting LLP

Creating a Sustainable Future: Approaches Companies Can Take to Organize and Measure Their Green Investments

Tue, 2 Dec 2008 14:12:55 +0000

Remember that song from Sesame Street, “It's Not Easy Being Green”? Well, it's true. Because green investments can be made across several core business dimensions — a company's products and services, workforce and workplace and supply chain — it can be difficult to get a handle on what is often a confusing mix of projects, goals, values and promises. That's why it's vital for companies to implement an approach based on benchmarks that can help them organize and prioritize their green projects and then measure whether they're paying off as intended. Going green isn't just a public relations exercise or a wish list; it's a business, and it should be treated as one. Highlights: -What are companies doing overall to reduce their carbon footprint? -How can you gauge how you're doing compared to other companies' or other industries' sustainability initiatives? -As new generations of technological devices come on line consumers discard their older devices, and that can represent a threat to the environment. What recycling programs have companies put in place, and how successful have they been to date? -In what ways can sustainable initiatives combat environmental issues while also contributing to economic growth, accelerated technology development, business innovation — and not least, the bottom line? Guests: David Lewis, head of Environmental Affairs at Nokia Siemens Networks Chris Park, principal, Deloitte Consulting LLP

Reading the Signs of the Times: Holiday Spending Predictions

Tue, 11 Nov 2008 14:43:42 +0000

It's definitely not a letter to Santa. No one's wish list would include a housing meltdown, a global credit crunch, a compromised manufacturing sector, failing financial institutions and massive bailouts. Instead of jingle bells, what we're hearing sounds more like the roar of the perfect economic storm. To top it off, there are even five fewer shopping days this year than last. What's a retailer to do? Are there any indicators for optimism? What strategies will help the concerned retailer melt the spending ice block? What's hot and what's not this holiday season? Highlights: - According to Deloitte's 23rd Annual Holiday Survey, 64 percent of those who responded think the economy is in a recession. Are we? - Will there be a change in the way consumers shop or socialize this year? - It's been reported that major retailers are intending to be very " promotional " this season. Could well-targeted promotional campaigns prove to be an effective antidote to consumer fear? - What can retailers be doing right now to maximize their sales this year, and what should they be doing now to prepare for next year? Guests: Stacy Janiak, vice chairman and U.S. Retail leader, Deloitte LLP Carl E. Steidtmann, chief economist and director, Consumer Business, Deloitte Research, Deloitte Services LP

Moving Beyond the Employee Lifecycle: Talent Solutions for a New Workplace

Tue, 4 Nov 2008 14:45:22 +0000

Thanks to globalization and technology, employees are able to move in many directions — laterally as well as vertically — and select from among a variety of work options. And with employees increasingly able to work from anywhere in the world, the traditional idea of the workplace is becoming obsolete. Going forward in these challenging economic times, companies will need to create a difficult balance — retaining their best performers and attracting new people to replace their retiring baby boomers while keeping costs down. This isn't something that can just be handed off to human resources (HR); effective talent strategy is also good business strategy. Highlights: - Have there been any new developments in how companies are conducting the search for talent? - Are companies taking the risk of jeopardizing their competitiveness over the long term by shedding employees and curbing new hires in order to cut costs? - The workplace is changing dramatically — in many cases, it exists only in cyberspace. How does the transformed work environment impact the search for talent? - HR's job is to deliver the infrastructure necessary to support workforce planning. What are some of the ways HR can work with a company's business side to make this happen? Guests: Jonathan Pearce, senior manager, Deloitte Tax LLP Jeff Schwartz, principal, Deloitte Consulting LLP Heather Stockton, partner, Deloitte & Touche LLP

Facing the Music: What Companies Can Do to Prepare for an SEC Investigation

Tue, 14 Oct 2008 13:05:50 +0000

No one likes to think that a hurricane is going to barrel through their town, flood their home and blow their roof off, but it would be foolish not to keep fresh water, food and a working flashlight on hand. It's always better to be prepared — a lesson that applies to companies trying to stay out of trouble. And trouble often comes in the form of an inquiry or an investigation by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Companies don't have to wait for a call from the SEC's enforcement division before they act, however. They can take the initiative to get their house in order. You might think you can ride out a storm, but it still wouldn't hurt to check your flash light batteries once in a while. Highlights: There are several different kinds of complaints that come to the attention of the SEC — which categories dominate the SEC's current caseload? Why do they receive more attention from its enforcement division? What's your reaction to SEC Chairman Christopher Cox's recent admission that the SEC should have exercised more oversight, and that self-policing on the part of the financial sector didn't work the way it was supposed to? What industries has the SEC focused on in recent years, and why would fraud be found more often in one industry versus another? No company wants to be the target of an SEC investigation, but it's always good to be prepared for one. What can companies do to cover their bases if a case is opened? Guests: Kerry Francis, partner, Forensic & Dispute Services, Deloitte Financial Advisory Services LLP Walter Ricciardi, partner, Paul, Weiss and former deputy director of the Division of Enforcement of the SEC Bob Sprague, senior manager, Forensic & Dispute Services, Deloitte Financial Advisory Services LLP

Forging a New Identity: Why Steel Companies Gain From Consolidation

Tue, 15 Jul 2008 13:56:16 +0000

Matchmaking has never been easy. People who seem meant for each other in theory often turn out to be incompatible when they actually get together. The same dilemma people face when they're looking for romance may also be true for steel companies.

Putting Your House in Order: Why Companies Benefit From Entity Simplification

Tue, 10 Jun 2008 15:22:24 +0000

“Everything should be made as simple as possible, but not one bit simpler.” While Albert Einstein was referring to physics when he made this statement, his words are just as applicable to business.

Putting a Price on Risk: How U.S. Investors Can Succeed in Emerging Markets

Tue, 13 May 2008 14:37:37 +0000

Putting a value on a target company's assets can be tricky at best, but it's especially so in politically unstable countries with shaky economies and unpredictable legal systems.

Banking on a New Generation: How Banks Can Woo and Win Over Skeptical Gen Y-ers

Tue, 6 May 2008 13:48:06 +0000

Generation Y members want to do their banking in much the same way that they do comparison shopping at the mall. To attract them as customers, banks will have to offer more options, services and products, and make them available via a multitude of channels such as cell phones, interactive television and yes, even virtual world sites — in addition to online banking and the traditional bank branch.

Embracing Disruption: How Consumers Are Transforming the U.S. Health Care System

Tue, 29 Apr 2008 13:36:27 +0000

If the U.S. health care system is in crisis — and just try to find someone who says it isn't — and it's going to be fixed, any solution will have to take into account the attitudes and behavior of the people whom the system is supposed to serve in the first place.

Putting People First: Re-Engineering the Temporary Assistance to Needy Families Program

Tue, 22 Apr 2008 15:41:18 +0000

On February 5, 2008, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services published the final regulations of the Deficit Reduction Act of 2005, which includes the re-authorization of the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program (TANF).

Losing Out by Aiming Too Low: The Transformational Power of Outsourcing

Tue, 15 Apr 2008 16:39:40 +0000

Companies that outsource and offshore their services and labor are on a metaphorical diet. By focusing narrowly on cost reduction, they can lose sight of the other important benefits outsourcing can offer.

Bridging the Gap: How Private Investment Can Reduce the Infrastructure Deficit

Tue, 8 Apr 2008 16:59:50 +0000

Cash-strapped governments are increasingly turning to private investors, the investment climate can vary enormously from one country to another, with regulatory hurdles to overcome and special tax considerations to take into account.

Spinning off Successfully: What Companies Need to Know About Divestiture Strategy

Tue, 1 Apr 2008 15:01:08 +0000

Divestiture isn't simply integration in reverse. It's a complex process that requires special skills.