I have given up on making predictions.
But I do want to share some inklings I have about our future.
The growing rift in the US between free market capitalists and the energized and emboldened socialists will deepen in 2010. As we move toward the fall election I have a feeling that things will reach a fevered pitch. I worry about the post-election reactions no matter which way it goes. Property rights, tax policies, socialization of fundamental parts of our economy, and liberty will frame our debate over the coming months and maybe even for several years to come.
I also have an inkling that we are seeing the building blocks of the "next big thing" taking shape. It has something to do with technological convergence that is finally beginning to emerge along with the explosion of apps and cloud and/or virtual computing. Throw the rapidly falling cost and increasing capacity of wireless and we have an interesting brew, indeed. I think this will all be aided by the weak economic climate. Low cost communication and entertainment will be rewarded by the market (if we still have one), as folks are looking for value and efficiency in their lives.
The state of education is moving toward a sea change of epic proportion. The failure of public education, the empowerment of information through technology, shifts in demographics, and the likelihood of a very long down period in the economy will begin to turn education on its ear. It could be a very interesting ride for those of us in higher education.
I have other inklings, but it is time to get back to work helping Mrs. C. get ready for our annual News Year Eve Bash.
But I do want to share some inklings I have about our future.
The growing rift in the US between free market capitalists and the energized and emboldened socialists will deepen in 2010. As we move toward the fall election I have a feeling that things will reach a fevered pitch. I worry about the post-election reactions no matter which way it goes. Property rights, tax policies, socialization of fundamental parts of our economy, and liberty will frame our debate over the coming months and maybe even for several years to come.
I also have an inkling that we are seeing the building blocks of the "next big thing" taking shape. It has something to do with technological convergence that is finally beginning to emerge along with the explosion of apps and cloud and/or virtual computing. Throw the rapidly falling cost and increasing capacity of wireless and we have an interesting brew, indeed. I think this will all be aided by the weak economic climate. Low cost communication and entertainment will be rewarded by the market (if we still have one), as folks are looking for value and efficiency in their lives.
The state of education is moving toward a sea change of epic proportion. The failure of public education, the empowerment of information through technology, shifts in demographics, and the likelihood of a very long down period in the economy will begin to turn education on its ear. It could be a very interesting ride for those of us in higher education.
I have other inklings, but it is time to get back to work helping Mrs. C. get ready for our annual News Year Eve Bash.
Until
next year, then, here is my Annual New Year Blessing to Entrepreneurs (with
apologies to those in Ireland, to whom this may sound vaguely familiar):
May the market rise up to meet you.
May cash flow always be at your back.
May customers shine warm upon your face,
and opportunities fall frequently upon your venture.
And until we meet again,
May God hold you in the palm of His hand.
Here's to another trip around the sun! Happy New Year!
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