Deloitte US

Nanotechnology in food : Emerging issues and potential uses

Tue, 21 May 2013 17:02:05 +0530

What is nanotechnology? What comes to mind when you think about nanotechnology? As a food manufacturer, would you be willing to use nanotechnology to make your food? The potential benefits of using nanotechnology are vast and far-reaching, but potential issues and unknowns still remain.

The dating game: Partnerships for the future

Tue, 21 May 2013 16:54:20 +0530

In the U.S. and around the globe, economies are struggling to recover, leaving governments to find ways to do more with less. Some may likely call this a challenge. Instead, it is an opportunity - indeed a call to action - for innovative collaborations, for public-private partnerships (PPPs) between government agencies, businesses, universities, entrepreneurs and citizens. Working together to not just identify problems, but also to more nimbly create solutions, PPPs can drive economic growth, create jobs and improve the services available to citizens.

How does your data garden grow?

Tue, 21 May 2013 16:52:06 +0530

In this Short Takes...on Analytics blog, "How does your data garden grow," Deloitte Consulting LLP’s Marcus Shingles discusses how organizations can use analytics for business growth.

Weathering the storms

Tue, 21 May 2013 16:49:28 +0530

Deloitte’s analytics-based Operation Enhancement Initiative (OEI) was employed to help a mid-size electric and gas retail and distribution utility in the Northeast better utilize operational data.

Drilling through data

Tue, 21 May 2013 16:47:37 +0530

Deloitte helped an independent oil and gas company derive a solution to seamlessly navigate its data and thus help users extract new insights about the relationship between cost and performance and perform on-the-fly competitor comparisons.

Shrinking retail shrink: Using analytics to help detect fraud and grow margins

Tue, 14 May 2013 18:32:49 +0530

This article describes how retailers can use new technologies such as data analytics to help them detect more fraud and improve margins in an increasingly challenging economic environment.

Capital expenditures: Will your investments deliver the desired result?

Tue, 14 May 2013 18:30:17 +0530

In this issue of CFO Insights, we discuss how to improve capex programs through more effective frameworks and leveraging metrics that matter.

The clothing industry wants the shirt off your back

Tue, 14 May 2013 18:29:02 +0530

Some passengers balked when airports first installed body scanners. Since then, the novelty has worn off, and most of us view the devices as just another obstacle to hurdle as we race to our destinations.

Now, similar scanners and other technologies are cropping up in the retail clothing industry, intending to provide garments that fit ... without visiting a fitting room, or relying on inconsistent sizing.

But they’re also raising questions about how much we’re willing to give in order to get something we want. To get a more comfortable fit, we may have to confront some uncomfortable truths.

The digital divide: Generation gap or a chasm?

Tue, 14 May 2013 18:28:02 +0530

The Greatest Generation. The Silent Generation. Baby Boomers. Gen X. Millennials. This brief history of U.S. culture now has a new demographic to add to its list: The Post-Internet Generation.

Instead of being born with silver spoons in their mouths, they were raised with mobile devices in their chubby toddler hands. They don’t know a world without laptops, tablets and cell phones.

Rise of the citizen scientist

Tue, 14 May 2013 18:26:13 +0530

New projects enlisting the help of "citizen scientists" make headlines nearly every day, and there are literally thousands of ongoing ventures.

The concept of citizens as scientists is hardly new. In the late 1700s, Thomas Jefferson planned the first weather network, which would record temperatures twice a day in every county in Virginia. Though Jefferson’s plan was interrupted by war, he is still dubbed "the father of weather observers" by the National Weather Service. Other early citizen scientists documented observations on bird migrations - century-old observations that are now being used to analyze the impact of climate change on bird populations.

Balance sheet integrity

Tue, 14 May 2013 18:24:58 +0530

Reconciliations are a key control over the quality of financial reporting. The "Utopian Close" is a financial close that is both effective and efficient. Can this Utopia become reality?

Enemy at the gates: What executives need to know about the keys to the organization’s front door

Tue, 14 May 2013 18:23:56 +0530

Pressure is mounting for organizations to not only detect threats, but to also prevent them - before they can affect critical business processes or sensitive data. These potential threats include an enterprise’s brand equity, competitive posture and reputation.

2013: What’s around the corner for the health care industry?

Mon, 6 May 2013 15:08:52 +0530

Dr. Paul Keckley shares his views on the potential impacts to industry stakeholders of Affordable Care Act implementation, cost containment, and other developments within the next year and beyond.

The compliance agenda starts here

Mon, 6 May 2013 15:07:41 +0530

Whether your organization is highly regulated, unregulated, public or private, it’s likely that compliance is a core business issue on your immediate agenda. As government regulation deepens around the world, its importance is only growing. While there’s been plenty of talk about the role of an enterprise compliance approach in managing these risks, the details have always been a little fuzzy ... until now.

Deloitte’s new book, Enterprise compliance: The Risk Intelligent approach, explains the key components of enterprise compliance and offers senior executives and board members a practical guide to the tough questions they should be asking about their own compliance efforts.

Time for a more user-friendly government

Mon, 6 May 2013 15:06:12 +0530

Easy. Helpful. Quick. These are all powerful words, ones that provoke positive feelings. They’re especially important in the context of user experience. We all want tools that are easy to use. We want information that’s helpful, and we want to find it quickly, on the device of our choosing. And we’ll return, again and again, to the companies, websites and apps that provide good experiences, as well as the content we need.

Now think of your experiences with government service providers, experiences like renewing your driver’s license or signing up for Social Security benefits. Do words like "easy, helpful and quick" come to mind? Probably not.

How the Internet is changing higher education

Mon, 6 May 2013 15:04:27 +0530

Revolution. Innovation. Disruption. Transformation. These are some of the words that showed up automatically to complete the phrase "online higher education" when I typed it into a search engine. Clearly, the Internet is shaking up higher ed, if even a search engine’s auto-complete algorithm can sense it.

Read the latest blog post by JR Reagan, Federal chief innovation officer and principal, Deloitte & Touche LLP.

The postdigital grapevine: Social media and the role of internal audit

Mon, 6 May 2013 15:03:34 +0530

No longer confined to areas of entertainment and life management, social media and social software have become an integral part of the postdigital business landscape. With more and more users linking, liking, friending and following, how can internal audit (IA) help assess and mitigate risks associated with social business?

Arsenic in rice: An old issue that’s still emerging

Mon, 6 May 2013 15:02:06 +0530

Have you ever thought about arsenic while consuming that burrito or while feeding your baby her first rice cereal? Honestly, the thought never crossed my mind. As a food scientist, you learn a lot about foods; sometimes it changes the way you eat and other times it has no effect on your diet. However, some information that came out last year from the FDA put the topic in perspective for me, particularly as a new mother who had just fed her daughter a lot of rice cereal.

Read this new article by Christie Gray, manager, Food Safety, Deloitte & Touche LLP.

Live from the Center

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 18:50:22 +0530

When you make critical decisions about industry events and their impact you need objective, data-driven insights to guide them.

Business trends 2013

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 18:49:10 +0530

Take a closer look at eight emerging forces that are influencing how organizations think about their top line strategy, including fresh perspectives on customer and social data analytics, private/public collaborations and emerging markets.

2013: What’s around the corner for the health care industry?

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 18:48:28 +0530

Dr. Paul Keckley shares his views on the potential impacts to industry stakeholders of Affordable Care Act implementation, cost containment and other developments within the next year and beyond.

Introducing dynamic review: Document review in new perspective

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 18:47:41 +0530

Our discovery methodology deploys advanced analytics, including predictive coding, to enhance document review management and reduce costs. You can make more intelligent decisions without necessarily leaving your existing platform or purchasing technology.

Maximizing growth: Insights on a mid-market acquisition

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 18:46:44 +0530

Watch a short case study video exploring how an aerospace and defense company accelerated their strategic growth plan.

Doing the unexpected: Shaping and sharing the future with big data

Thu, 18 Apr 2013 19:42:27 +0530

In our newest blog post, Deloitte FAS LLP’s Vivekanand Gopalkrishnan discusses how powerful, innovative and transformative big data can be.

Capital efficiency in a volatile market: Stop burning capital

Mon, 15 Apr 2013 20:51:18 +0530

Join our Dbriefs webcast on April 16 to learn practical ways to manage capital investments in a volatile world.

Suspicious activity reports and analytics

Mon, 15 Apr 2013 19:42:19 +0530

Analytics can provide compliance executives with an opportunity that helps them leverage information they already have to meet an unrelenting imperative they face every day: fulfilling their regulatory duty by running high quality, dynamic and effective compliance programs.

This paper suggests that financial institutions should use analytics to improve anti-money laundering (AML) systems, which can result in more efficient, effective and insightful operations.

I’ll have a PB&J sandwich, hold the S please

Mon, 8 Apr 2013 17:23:25 +0530

Working in the food industry, it’s hard to miss the numerous peanut butter outbreaks and recalls that have happened over the past few years. Many were caused by Salmonella contamination.

And, when I take a closer look, it’s not just peanut butter in my sandwich. There have been many significant Salmonella outbreaks and recalls associated with low moisture ready-to-eat (RTE) foods, including: chocolate, powdered infant formula, raw almonds, toasted oats breakfast cereal and dry seasonings, to name a few.

Five questions on supply chain risk

Mon, 8 Apr 2013 17:16:31 +0530

From the tsunami in Japan and drought in the U.S. farm belt, to horse meat in Europe and flooding in Thailand, the ripple effects of supply chain risks are being felt around the world. Problems that used to be isolated and manageable can now lead to global supply disruptions and lasting brand damage. Supply chain executives have to be equally vigilant about internal operational risks and even functional support risks in areas such as legal, finance, HR and IT.

As executives find themselves being asked more and more questions about the risks facing their supply chains, many have decided it’s time to reexamine their assumptions and approaches. In this issue of Risk Angles, Kelly Marchese answers five of the questions she hears most frequently regarding supply chain risk. Then, James Cascone takes a closer look at supply chain risks associated with our food supply.

How consumer product companies can maximize deal value, minimize disruption when selling-off brand

Mon, 1 Apr 2013 18:39:39 +0530

Sometimes companies think of divestitures simply as ""acquisitions in reverse"" and underestimate the effort and time the sales process requires, especially for businesses that are tightly integrated. When consumer product (CP) executives consider divesting one or more brands, they typically face a number of general and industry-specific challenges.

Learn more about these challenges and how CP companies can maximize deal value and minimize disruption when selling-off brands by reading our full article: "Divest and deliver."

Remote forensic collections in the enterprise environment

Mon, 1 Apr 2013 18:38:52 +0530

Targeted remote imaging represents a potentially valuable solution in a modern, globalized enterprise environment. As with the use of any technology, there are many factors to consider before selecting and investing in a specific solution. In addition to technical considerations, legal and regulatory issues play an important role. Ultimately, with the appropriate guidance, global enterprises can adopt remote forensic collection procedures, in addition to traditional imaging, to meet their eDiscovery needs and achieve cost savings and increased responsiveness.

U.S. aerospace and defense sector financial performance analysis

Mon, 1 Apr 2013 18:36:20 +0530

In 2012, the top 20 U.S. aerospace and defense companies' revenues increased 5.5 percent to $354.7 billion, primarily driven by record setting commercial aircraft production, which offset negative revenue growth within the defense subsector. Overall operating earnings decreased 2.2 percent to $36.0 billion due to the impact of slowing defense spending. Commensurately, overall operating margins decreased 79 basis points to 10.2 percent in 2012 from 10.9 percent in 2011.

Defense firms revenue decreased 1.5 percent and earnings fell 7.4 percent, while commercial aerospace revenue increased 18.3 percent and earnings increased by 13.2 percent.

This report details the financial performance of the top 20 publically listed aerospace and defense companies headquartered in the U.S., based on sales revenue. The report includes discussion of industry performance focused on the primary metrics of revenue growth, operating earnings and growth, and operating margins and growth.

Deloitte Consumer Spending Index stabilizes in February

Mon, 1 Apr 2013 18:33:25 +0530

The Deloitte Consumer Spending Index remained steady in February, primarily as a decline in initial unemployment claims and a rise in real average hourly earnings offset negative forces. The Index tracks consumer cash flow as an indicator of future consumer spending.

The face of innovation: What does an innovator look like?

Mon, 1 Apr 2013 18:16:44 +0530

If I ask you to picture an innovator, what’s the first image that comes to mind? A mad scientist in a Frankenstein-like lab? An aspiring entrepreneur in his college dorm room?

A passion to innovate can be found in laboratories, in corporate boardrooms and at elite universities. It’s found among geniuses and savants, in executives and college professors.

The next generation of problem solving

Mon, 1 Apr 2013 18:11:06 +0530

There aren’t quick fixes for many of the problems we face today. But there are platforms for change and innovation that are working to address them, platforms that solicit input from customers and citizens alike.

Five questions on retaliation risk

Mon, 1 Apr 2013 18:05:39 +0530

The interconnected issues of whistleblowers and retaliation lawsuits are experiencing a resurgence among businesses today, pushed along by new regulatory frameworks like those found in whistleblower provisions of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act (Dodd-Frank Act). Too often, companies don’t realize their exposure to retaliation risks until it’s too late.

How can leaders help guard their organizations from such risks? How can they foster a culture that empowers employees to actively engage with the issues of ethics and compliance? Risk Intelligent organizations are already taking a proactive approach to these challenges; designing and deploying programs that seek to encourage a speak-up culture - one that promotes internal reporting and resolution before problems spiral out of control.

In this issue of Risk Angles, Robert Biskup offers some thoughts on questions executives ask him most frequently about this issue. Then, Brian Huchro takes a closer look at the role of culture in managing retaliation risks.

IPv6: Is it finally time to migrate?

Mon, 1 Apr 2013 16:58:05 +0530

CIOs have been hearing about the importance of adopting Internet Protocol version 6 (IPv6) for so long that some have become desensitized to the issue. Yet, with some parts of the world already running out of available IP addresses, can they continue to put off the migration to IPv6?

For over a decade we’ve heard warnings about how the world is using up the addressable space provided in Internet Protocol version 4 (IPv4). Unless users adopt IPv6 - the replacement for IPv4 that can support billions of new addresses - they could eventually find themselves unable to communicate with the outside world via the Internet.

To date many organizations have built quick workarounds or ignored the warnings altogether, and the sky hasn’t fallen. Today IPv4 continues to support the vast majority of global Internet traffic. Yet, the warnings persist and are, in fact, becoming increasingly dire. Why? We’re now approaching the much-heralded breaking point, fueled by growth of mobile adoption, increased pace of public cloud adoption and the proliferation of new end points with Internet connectivity - "The Internet of things" - via embedded sensors in physical objects like cars, home appliances, watches, vending machines and elevators, to name a few. Asia and Europe are already running out of available IP addresses, a phenomenon that is expected to occur in the Americas within three years.

With this in mind, can organizations in the Americas - particularly those that are customer-facing - continue to ignore the calls to migrate to IPv6?

Putting strategy first

Mon, 1 Apr 2013 16:32:48 +0530

Using analytics, one organization achieved a holistic view of its customers, streamlining analysis and establishing an integrated global business process that drives performance.

From Bangalore to Boston: The trend of bringing IT back in-house

Mon, 25 Mar 2013 17:19:27 +0530

Though insourcing is a small trend as compared to the global outsourcing juggernaut, given the maturity of the outsourcing industry we are seeing more and more clients wrestling with the question of whether an outsourcing deal that is not meeting expectations should be re-tendered or insourced.

Most clients still prefer to fix broken deals by either renegotiating with the incumbent provider or re-tendering the work. However, insourcing is also being considered a viable option when the business case and business drivers make sense.

To learn more, download the complete whitepaper, "From Bangalore to Boston: The trend of bringing IT back in-house."

Top 10 issues for banking M&A in 2013: Seeking clarity and opportunity to re-energize the market

Mon, 25 Mar 2013 16:56:37 +0530

Assuming that the U.S. and Eurozone countries see sustained economic improvement and increased regulatory clarity, recent trends in transaction volume and size indicate that the banking industry M&A market could become re-energized in 2013.

Buyers may be looking to improve competitive positioning within existing markets and increase attractive demographics. They also may be seeking to create economies of scale to absorb the costs of a heightened regulatory burden. In addition, while transaction multiples have yet to fully normalize; sales of stronger banks are beginning to take place.

Learn more about the banking M&A 2013 landscape by downloading our full report.

The scientific information landscape and applications to translational research

Mon, 25 Mar 2013 16:55:43 +0530

When asked what aspect of the close process they were most interested in improving, 46 percent of respondents to a recent This paper describes specific execution measures involving strategy formulation, careful planning, multithreaded execution and an ongoing change management as a means of translating ideas to action, thereby increasing a TRI solution’s usage and making it an invaluable collaborative resource.

The case for a close czar

Mon, 25 Mar 2013 16:54:17 +0530

When asked what aspect of the close process they were most interested in improving, 46 percent of respondents to a recent Dbriefs poll said it was a combination of increasing integrity/accuracy of account balances, providing visibility into the close activities and responsibilities, having subledger systems agree to what is reported, and reducing effort and eliminating bottlenecks.

Having a close czar could be one of the answers to addressing these issues, as well as improving an inefficient process. Such a designee also helps promote the quality and integrity of financial and managerial reports. Moreover, the close czar can proactively identify the issues and help management make timely decisions, set expectations, and help meet the stringent financial reporting deadlines.

Download the CFO Insights article "The case for a close czar" to learn more.

Mid-market outlook: The impact of sequestration

Mon, 25 Mar 2013 16:53:30 +0530

Now that sequestration has become an economic reality, we had an opportunity to gain some real-time insights into how mid-market executives view the potential impact for their companies. Find out what we learned from the nearly 1,000 executives who took our pulse survey.

Top 10 issues for insurance M&A in 2013: Time for mergers and acquisitions to take off?

Thu, 14 Mar 2013 14:49:02 +0530

As a number of industry-specific regulations come into effect in the near future, insurance companies should begin educating themselves about requirements; assessing the state of their current ERM framework (as well as that of potential acquisitions); determining organizational readiness for increased oversight; and formulating appropriate response plans. Proactively connecting with trade associations and government affairs staff and leveraging leading practices may help companies move forward with more confidence.

Investor relations: What new CFOs should know

Thu, 14 Mar 2013 14:48:10 +0530

CFOs want external stakeholders to view them as having high integrity, as being a competent steward of shareholder resources and a strategic thinker, and of course, as being right. Gaining such a reputation does not happen overnight, however. In order to achieve it, you need to know the business, the drivers of that business and the questions investors want answered. Those questions are typically the same ones you ask internally: If you want the answers, then so do your investors.

As CFO, do your homework, be prepared for a multitude of questions, do dry runs, and create a playbook. But ultimately, think like an investor.

Health care reform memo: March 4, 2013

Thu, 14 Mar 2013 14:34:19 +0530

Explore this week's health care summary, highlighting news from the previous week’s activities in the administration, and implications for the c-suite and various stakeholder groups.

The mobile revolution: Is your IT department up to the challenge?

Thu, 14 Mar 2013 14:29:04 +0530

Until recently, many CIOs and their development teams have been trying to meet user expectations around mobile by layering mobile functionality on top of existing systems - the "veneering" of PC-era solutions deployed to mobile devices, delivered by their traditional development teams using established methodologies. But, as increasingly advanced mobile technologies, sophisticated user expectations and innovative usages continue to emerge, could utilizing traditional IT approaches - and skill sets - cause companies to miss out on the mobile revolution?

Many organizations are struggling for break-through wins that leverage the potential of today’s smartphones and tablets. Especially for enterprise-facing initiatives, "good enough" user experiences built around incremental use cases have often led to departmental experimentation, perpetual pilots and visions anchored closer to email, calendaring and conference room scheduling than positively disrupting operating and business models. Not to mention, the mobile revolution is about far more than touch screens and tablets. Soon, the word "mobile" may likely be synonymous with ambient devices, wearable computers and highly tuned sensors, among other futuristic tools.

As they try to harness the potential of existing mobile technologies and prepare for what’s next, many CIOs find themselves at a crossroads: Should they continue to focus on mobile enablement of existing systems, and treat mobile as just another deployment channel? Or should they follow a risky and largely unproven path, which could require them to abandon traditional strategies and hire talent with the kind of mobile experience needed to create an agile, mobile-centric IT environment?

Organizing for analytics in health care

Thu, 7 Mar 2013 14:41:21 +0530

The growing thirst for information - reliably accurate information - is dramatically changing the health care industry in many ways.

Health care reform memo

Thu, 7 Mar 2013 14:40:38 +0530

Explore this week's health care summary, highlighting news from the previous week’s activities in the administration and implications for the c-suite and various stakeholder groups.

HIMSS13 product collateral

Thu, 7 Mar 2013 14:40:07 +0530

While you are exploring HIMSS13 and all the great information to be found at the educational sessions and technical exhibitions, take a look at Deloitte’s product and services collateral.

HIMSS 2013 annual conference and exhibition

Thu, 7 Mar 2013 14:39:30 +0530

Deloitte can help you in your efforts to define a vision for your organization in the constantly changing world of health care. Through the use of data, analytics and content we can work with you to derive insights and make decisions about the future; to do things differently - or make a new way forward. Wherever you need to go, we see you there.

HIMSS13 resource library

Thu, 7 Mar 2013 14:38:32 +0530

While you are exploring HIMSS13 and all the great information to be found at the educational sessions and technical exhibitions, take a look at Deloitte’s recent publications and research on topics such as analytics, heath care IT, security and privacy, accountable care, meaningful use, ICD-10 and more - some of the top issues impacting CIOs in 2013.

The three-minute guide to banking analytics

Thu, 28 Feb 2013 20:28:16 +0530

Rebooting and refocusing your bank’s analytics capabilities can seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be that way. Identify where data and analytics can have the greatest impact.

The three-minute guide to sustainability analytics

Thu, 28 Feb 2013 20:26:55 +0530

Sustainability analytics can help companies understand the cost, impact and performance of their past and present sustainability initiatives- and anticipate future conditions and requirements.

Is big data "too big to Ignore"?

Thu, 28 Feb 2013 20:25:50 +0530

Visit our new DU Press page featuring a collection of analytics articles and videos that can help answer this question.

A restoration in hotel loyalty: Developing a blueprint for reinventing loyalty programs

Thu, 28 Feb 2013 20:24:27 +0530

In this report, "A restoration in hotel loyalty: Developing a blueprint for reinventing loyalty programs," we explore how to increase the effectiveness of loyalty programs.

Health system chief information officers

Mon, 25 Feb 2013 18:35:28 +0530

Deloitte interviewed CIOs in 12 major health care systems to assess their opinions about and preparedness for the near- and longer-term challenges they face in navigating the "new normal."

Going mobile: A series on the future of mobile government

Mon, 25 Feb 2013 18:34:18 +0530

Just as web 2.0 (the social web) supplanted web 1.0 (the read-only web) as the driving force in technology over the last decade, the mobile Internet will likely be the driving force in the next decade. The world will, once again, have to assimilate the change. This series will explore how the public sector can extract productivity gains, re-invent how it does business and meet the demands of an increasingly untethered populace by embracing the disruption wrought by mobile technology.

Deloitte research finds mobile technology adoption key in boosting public sector productivity

Mon, 25 Feb 2013 18:33:22 +0530

New Deloitte research shows that mobile technology could help close the widening productivity gap between the private and public sectors. The research report, "Gov. on the go: Boosting public-sector productivity by going mobile," argues that mobility presents the government with an opportunity to hit the reset button and drive efficiency and productivity from technology.

Big data: Too big to ignore

Mon, 25 Feb 2013 18:31:25 +0530

In our latest blog post, Jim Guszcza, Deloitte Consulting LLP, discusses what’s needed to help companies make sense of big data and leverage it for competitive advantage.

Hands-on analytics

Thu, 14 Feb 2013 17:52:07 +0530

Deloitte Analytics HIVE is the advanced technology, visualization-based approach used to display how analytics works and what it can offer as business tools and approaches become increasingly more intuitive

Hitting back at hackers: Do two wrongs make a right?

Mon, 11 Feb 2013 15:54:52 +0530

When companies are hit by cyber attacks, some may feel - with good reason - that they have no recourse other than to strike back. Law enforcement’s response can be lumbering and, currently, there are few options for collaborating with others on cyber-security challenges. Yet, before you try to take out a perpetrator’s servers, consider the risks. Increasingly, attacks are launched from within IT environments of legitimate organizations that may have no idea they’ve been breached. Striking back may help stop an attack in progress, but it also could have unintended consequences.

Given these considerations, are there times when hitting back at hackers is the more effective response?

The next wave of communication to members about health reform

Mon, 11 Feb 2013 15:54:21 +0530

Many people are still confused about health reform. What are you doing today to address this with your members?

Unlocking value in health plan M&A: Sometimes the deals don’t deliver

Mon, 11 Feb 2013 15:53:53 +0530

Deloitte’s analysis of 44 health plan merger and acquisition (M&A) transactions found that fewer than half led to sustained improvements in comparative market value three years after the deal closed.

2013 health care outlook

Mon, 11 Feb 2013 15:53:19 +0530

What’s around the corner for health care organizations and policymakers in 2013? Deloitte’s industry leaders discuss the coming year’s top issues and trends.

2013 outlook on life sciences

Mon, 11 Feb 2013 15:52:38 +0530

Terry Hisey, vice chairman and principal, Deloitte LLP, and U.S. Life Sciences Sector leader, shares his thoughts on the key issues facing the life sciences sector in 2013.

2013 outlook on health plans

Mon, 11 Feb 2013 15:51:56 +0530

Health care reform and consumerism are driving changes that cannot be ignored by health plans, according to Bill Copeland, vice chairman and principal, Deloitte LLP, and leader of the U.S. Health Plans and Life Sciences and Health Care practices.

Risk Angles: Five questions on risk assessment

Mon, 11 Feb 2013 15:50:15 +0530

Companies can spend an enormous amount of effort cataloguing the risks that could affect them at any given moment, on every front. While it’s important to develop that visibility, it’s just as important to measure and prioritize risks so that the organization is prepared to respond to them in an appropriate manner. Because the environment in which you’re operating is constantly - and quickly - evolving, it’s important that organizations are focusing on the right risks, at the right time, in the right ways.

That’s where risk assessment comes in. Assessment is the technique companies use to determine the significance of individual risks in light of business goals. In this issue of Risk Angles, Dr. Patchin Curtis, director, Deloitte & Touche LLP, offers her thoughts on some questions the executive team should consider asking about the risk assessment process. Then, Dr. Mark Beasley, Deloitte professor of Enterprise Risk Management at North Carolina State University, takes a closer look at risk prioritization, probabilities and appetite.

Deloitte Center for the Global Food Value Chain debuts

Mon, 11 Feb 2013 15:48:35 +0530

The Deloitte Center for the Global Food Value Chain (the Center), a source of insights and analysis designed to help companies in the food and beverage business understand the changing regulatory environment, reduce risk and address supply chain issues, recently debuted and issued a series of research papers to help companies comprehend and comply with the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA), signed into law in January 2011.

The road ahead: Thoughts on the recently released final FATCA regulations

Mon, 11 Feb 2013 15:47:33 +0530

On Thursday, January 17, 2013, the Treasury and IRS released the final regulations for the Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act (FATCA). Originally codified as part of the Hiring Incentives to Restore Employment Act of 2010, these final regulations culminate a series of interim guidance issued by the Treasury Department and IRS.

View highlights of several important takeaways from the final regulations, as well as Deloitte’s point of view on these rules.

Helping make the invisible visible with socialytics

Mon, 11 Feb 2013 15:46:47 +0530

In our newest blog post, John Hagel discusses socialytic disruption and the performance of teams. Learn how socialytics was applied to track patterns of interaction for better decision-making.

FATCA webcast: Final regulations on Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act (FATCA)

Mon, 11 Feb 2013 15:45:48 +0530

On January 17, 2013, the U.S. Treasury Department and the IRS released final regulations on FATCA. Beginning this month, FATCA requires U.S. taxpayers with specified foreign financial assets, as well as foreign financial institutions, to identify and report on their U.S. account holders annually. What do the final regulations entail?

New FCPA resource guide: Ten things for legal and compliance officers to consider

Wed, 6 Feb 2013 18:28:29 +0530

Is the new FCPA Resource Guide from the U.S. Department of Justice and U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission really new or just a compilation of existing material? This article identifies 10 key takeaways from the guide that may help legal and compliance officers obtain executive support and drive continued, appropriate enhancements to their FCPA/anti-corruption compliance programs.

Divestiture survey report 2013: Sharpening your strategy

Wed, 6 Feb 2013 18:27:06 +0530

Divestitures are becoming more a matter of strategy than survival. Deloitte surveyed executives regularly involved in divestitures to assess the past experience of their companies, their outlook for the future and the challenges they face. Read our findings from the survey and insights from Deloitte’s experience in the marketplace.

Club store strategies for national brands

Wed, 6 Feb 2013 18:25:56 +0530

While grocery, mass merchandisers and supercenters accounted for the majority of consumer product goods (CPG) sales in 2011 (72.6 percent), this share reflects an erosion of 2 percentage points in three years. The warehouse club channel is a growing and profitable segment for those CPG companies that have tailored their business for club retailers.

Deloitte hires health care compliance luminary Todd Kerr

Mon, 28 Jan 2013 18:48:13 +0530

Todd Kerr, an accomplished health industry compliance and audit executive based in Nashville, has joined Deloitte & Touche LLP’s expanding national Governance, Regulatory and Risk Strategies (GR&RS) practice.

The WOW of the HIVE

Mon, 28 Jan 2013 18:46:08 +0530

Our newest blog post explores a typical visit to the HIVE, which consists of preparation, the HIVE session and the "new possible," all designed to help businesses discover new insights through visualization.

Club store strategies for national brands

Mon, 28 Jan 2013 18:45:01 +0530

The warehouse club channel is a growing and profitable segment for those consumer product goods (CPG) companies that have tailored their business for club retailers. Consumer attitudes have changed, driving CPG and retail executives to take notice. As a result of warehouse members making more trips, spending more at club stores and finding these stores more appealing than just three years ago, some CPG companies have taken the pains to understand the characteristics unique to the warehouse club channel. Learn more about five distinct areas that are unique to the warehouse club channel.

Mid-market outlook: Back from the cliff - what’s next?

Mon, 28 Jan 2013 18:42:49 +0530

New blog post by Tom McGee: Most people, including me, usually make some personal resolutions for the New Year. But what about your company? It’s not too late to think about making some New Year’s resolutions for your business as well. In fact, the start of the calendar (and often fiscal) year is a good time to take stock and refresh your thinking, especially since your company’s 2013 plans were probably finalized months ago.

De-risking pensions: Can it be done?

Mon, 28 Jan 2013 18:42:07 +0530

By evaluating their plan options as well as future economic considerations, CFOs can develop a roadmap to help with de-risking over time.

2012 Survey of U.S. Health Care Consumers: Segmentation INFOBrief

Mon, 28 Jan 2013 18:39:07 +0530

Health care organizations traditionally segment their market based on demographics, insurance status or health measures. But we suggest that what matters most is behavior.

To supplement its 2012 Survey of U.S. Health Care Consumers, Deloitte offers an INFOBrief and infographic that take an in-depth look at six health care consumer segments, how they navigate the system in very different ways and the implications for industry stakeholders.

Tech Trends 2013

Mon, 28 Jan 2013 18:37:48 +0530

The wait is over!

Deloitte’s annual Tech Trends report examines the ever-evolving landscape of technology put to practical business use. Once again, we’ve selected 10 trends that we believe have the opportunity to impact business over the next 18 to 24 months.

This year’s theme, ""Elements of postdigital,"" looks more deeply into the five forces of postdigital enterprise that we introduced last year: analytics, mobile, social, cloud and cyber. As we have worked more deeply with these elements of postdigital, we’ve discovered that the formulae of these combined elements are likely to have the most significant impact on business.

We invite you to visit www.deloitte.com/us/techtrends2013 to learn more about the trends selected this year, watch our library of videos and download your copy of the report.

The goodwill impairment dilemma: What happens when U.S. GAAP and IFRS clash?

Tue, 22 Jan 2013 19:52:46 +0530

Dealing with inconsistencies from market to market can be perplexing. Whatever the situation, companies operating across the global economy continue to face the challenge of differing application of valuation methodologies and accounting principles under U.S. GAAP and IFRS, local country GAAP and even country-to-country under IFRS regarding goodwill impairment testing.

"The goodwill impairment dilemma: What happens when U.S. GAAP and IFRSs clash?" explores at a high level the challenges companies may face in performing goodwill impairment testing both in the United States and around the world.

Deloitte completes acquisition of Monitor’s global strategy consulting business

Tue, 22 Jan 2013 19:51:37 +0530

Deloitte has acquired substantially all of the business of Monitor, one of the world’s leading strategy consulting firms. Introducing Monitor Deloitte.

Swerving from the cliff: Tax provisions in the American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012

Tue, 15 Jan 2013 15:29:21 +0530

This report from Deloitte Tax LLP examines the tax provisions in the new law and considers the tax policy challenges facing Congress and the Obama administration in the year ahead.

U.S. Olympic Committee and Deloitte announce 2013 Warrior Games

Tue, 15 Jan 2013 15:28:14 +0530

The U.S. Olympic Committee (USOC) and Deloitte announced that the Warrior Games will be held in Colorado Springs, Colo., May 11-17, 2013. In addition to Deloitte, the presenting sponsor, the week-long event is also supported by the Department of Defense, Department of Veterans Affairs, BP, USO, Fisher House Foundation and the Bob Woodruff Foundation.

Five questions on managing risk in the midst of volatility

Tue, 15 Jan 2013 15:26:56 +0530

In just about any business, managing risk has been a little like keeping order on a storm-tossed ship. The environment is always changing, creating new challenges with every passing day. But over the past few years, it has frequently felt more like being caught in hurricane-force winds, when it’s hard enough to know which direction is up.

Get used to it. Volatility is widely expected to dominate the business environment for the foreseeable future. In fact, when Deloitte and Forbes Insights recently surveyed leading U.S. executives responsible for risk, we found that 91 percent plan to reorganize and reprioritize their approaches to risk management in the coming three years. Nearly 80 percent said this was due to market volatility over the past three years.

Five questions on the possibility of corporate tax reform - and the risks it could introduce

Tue, 15 Jan 2013 15:25:53 +0530

Debating the future of tax policy is not uncommon during a presidential election year. But recently, the tone of the national conversation about tax reform has subtly shifted. Many observers believe that support for corporate tax reform that results in a lower statutory rate while potentially modifying or even eliminating certain tax expenditures is beginning to grow, and passage of such a package may become reality in the next year or two. Any shift in the tax code introduces new risks that must be managed. But more sweeping changes could present more fundamental risks.

Text analytics: The three-minute guide

Tue, 15 Jan 2013 15:24:34 +0530

For many companies, unstructured data is simply exhaust from digital transactions and other online activities. But forward-looking organizations are mining this data for valuable insights.

Text analytics: Ride the wave or stay ashore?

Tue, 15 Jan 2013 15:23:37 +0530

In our newest blog post, Cindi Thompson tackles tough questions on text analytics. Should you jump in and ride the wave?

CFO Signals: 2012 Q4 results

Tue, 15 Jan 2013 15:22:14 +0530

Last quarter, it was quite apparent that the combination of sluggish economic growth, persistent European Union issues, approaching elections in the United States and the impending "fiscal cliff" were making CFOs very nervous.

Lingering uncertainty has pushed CFOs’ investment expectations even lower - with new lows for growth in capital spending, R&D and marketing investments. CFOs are cautious on domestic hiring, too, and more of them are projecting cuts than at any time in the last two years.

It is important to note that these expectations are largely premised on not going over the fiscal cliff and conditions not getting worse in Europe - because most CFOs also said they don’t expect either to be a factor in the near term.

Health plans’ challenge: Delivering on consumer preference

Tue, 15 Jan 2013 15:21:42 +0530

Health care consumers are ready to shop for insurance and customize the plans they buy. They want more choices and better tools to find the right fit and the best value.

Consumers’ utilization of the health care system

Tue, 15 Jan 2013 15:20:54 +0530

Satisfaction with primary care providers is consistently high, but consumers believe quality and prices can vary greatly among hospitals.

Rx use and life sciences innovations: Consumers’ attitudes and behaviors

Tue, 15 Jan 2013 15:19:49 +0530

Prescription medication users are clearly engaged in managing their care. They look for information, consider alternatives and seek value and effectiveness.

Information technology, social media and online resources for health care: A slow climb

Tue, 15 Jan 2013 15:19:13 +0530

Medical consumers rely more and more on a variety of information channels and resources, but that doesn’t mean they’ve placed their complete trust in it yet.

2012 survey of U.S. health care consumers: Five-year look back

Tue, 15 Jan 2013 15:18:28 +0530

Conducted annually since 2008, Deloitte’s longitudinal study of heath care consumers seeks to provide a comprehensive view of health care consumerism, a view that goes beyond the conventional boundaries of what health and health care are commonly thought to encompass.

Deloitte survey of U.S. health care consumers

Tue, 15 Jan 2013 15:17:49 +0530

The Deloitte survey of U.S. health care consumers provides data-driven insights on consumers’ perceptions of the health care system and their thoughts on health care reform.

2012 U.S. survey of health care consumers

Tue, 15 Jan 2013 15:16:20 +0530

In the health care industry, physicians call consumers "patients;" health plans call them "enrollees" or "members;" and bio-pharma companies refer to them as "users" or, sometimes, "subjects" if they are involved in a clinical trial. Many of the designations in health care infer that individuals play a primarily passive or reactionary role.

The hidden costs of U.S. health care: Consumer discretionary health care spending

Thu, 3 Jan 2013 21:09:08 +0530

This study estimates U.S. health-related spending by taking a broad view of direct and indirect costs as well as items such as alternative medicines, functional foods and the imputed cost of supervisory care.

Workforce analytics for the aerospace and defense industry

Thu, 3 Jan 2013 21:08:23 +0530

Talent management drives the attainment of a highly skilled workforce, and aerospace and defense (A&D) companies - who have long faced a pressing need for skilled workers - are frequently cited as having leading talent management programs. Such programs can increase interest among students to pursue a science, technology, engineering and mathematics education (STEM), can create learning pathways for career advancement, and can recognize and reward performance.

Deloitte Consumer Spending Index retreats

Thu, 3 Jan 2013 21:07:40 +0530

After nearly a year of steady gains, the Deloitte Consumer Spending Index (Index) fell in November due to a slowdown in the rise of new home prices and an accelerating decline in real wages. The Index tracks consumer cash flow as an indicator of future consumer spending.

Using econometrics to bolster scenario planning

Thu, 3 Jan 2013 21:06:55 +0530

In this issue of CFO Insights, we discuss the four key phases of scenario-based planning and how econometrics analysis - the application of statistical techniques to analyze economic data - can be used to help CFOs and their finance teams establish effective, action-oriented processes.

Mid-market perspectives: America's economic engine - why entrepreneurs matter

Thu, 3 Jan 2013 21:06:07 +0530

Can mid-sized companies benefit from adopting entrepreneurial behavior most often attributed to start-ups? According to this fourth research report from Deloitte Growth Enterprise Services based on results from a September 2012 survey of 652 mid-market executives, the answer is yes.

Deloitte and Decernis announce strategic alliance

Thu, 3 Jan 2013 21:05:32 +0530

Deloitte and Decernis LLC, a leader in global compliance management systems for global product safety, announced an alliance to provide solutions to consumer product, food service, retail and distribution companies. Specifically, the alliance combines Deloitte’s food safety, quality and supply chain experience and the software platform and content provided by Decernis for tracking and alerting consumer businesses about compliance issues.

James L. Kroeker, former SEC chief accountant, joins Deloitte

Thu, 3 Jan 2013 21:04:39 +0530

Deloitte recently announced James L. Kroeker, former Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) chief accountant, has agreed to join the organization as deputy managing partner, professional practice, effective January 7, 2013, pending approval by Deloitte LLP’s board of directors.

Kroeker will serve in a leadership role reporting directly to the Deloitte & Touche LLP CEO, promoting high audit quality and serving as a senior consultative resource to help Deloitte engagement teams and clients reach high quality financial reporting conclusions in the public interest.

Heads Up: Highlights of the 2012 AICPA National Conference on current SEC and PCAOB developments

Thu, 3 Jan 2013 21:03:53 +0530

The latest edition of Heads Up extracts key insights from the annual three-day conference hosted by the AICPA. The conference features speeches by, and question-and-answer sessions with, members of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB), Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB), International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) and other professional groups.

Five questions on business risks related to water and other critical resources

Thu, 3 Jan 2013 21:03:02 +0530

Water is something most of us take for granted. However, as demand for water continues to rise, more and more companies are learning that water is a finite resource and that water scarcity may have a big impact on the bottom line. In some cases it can even threaten a company's ability to operate, as well as its reputation.

Five questions on corporate governance and risk

Thu, 3 Jan 2013 21:01:00 +0530

Corporate governance was more straightforward back in the day when roles were defined simply as "management acts the board oversees." But today, that approach may not hold up - not when boards are scrutinized from all sides by regulators, shareholders, the media and analysts, to name a few.

So what’s the primary role of the board of directors today? Is it to simply oversee executive management’s activities? Or should the board take an active role as strategic partners, working alongside management to deal with the enterprise’s toughest problems? And what’s the board’s role as it relates to risk and culture? There are no "one size fits all" answers, but it’s important that the board and executive management agree on how they will work together to build a Risk Intelligent organization.

mHealth in an mWorld

Thu, 20 Dec 2012 15:57:09 +0530

Mobile apps only scratch the surface of possibilities offered by mHealth. Improvement opportunities exist along the value chain, from engaging patients to maximizing provider productivity to controlling costs.

10 Myths of health care reform

Thu, 20 Dec 2012 15:55:51 +0530

"10 Myths of Health Care Reform" A listener guide for the final run in the Campaign 2012 season.10 Myths of health care reform

2013 industry outlook

Thu, 20 Dec 2012 15:52:07 +0530

Our industry leaders discuss trends to watch and strategies to consider as you prepare for the year ahead.

A race to the bottom: How to survive in the new retail environment

Mon, 10 Dec 2012 16:34:43 +0530

The competitive frontier for retailers is shifting dramatically before our eyes. If retailers are to win in the marketplace over the next five to 10 years, they should determine the primary basis on which they will compete. Our latest report, "A race to the bottom: How to survive in the new retail environment," includes several practical steps retailers can take now to begin this journey.

The three-minute guide to geospatial analytics

Mon, 10 Dec 2012 16:34:00 +0530

Using geospatial analytics, businesses can identify patterns that were previously buried in spreadsheets, resulting in better decisions.

The power of zoom: Transforming government through location intelligence

Mon, 10 Dec 2012 15:24:22 +0530

The increasing wealth of data provided daily by smartphones, physical sensors and the Internet - the "digital exhaust" created as a byproduct of millions of our daily lives - has given rise to new models and opportunities for government to better understand its challenges and design more effective solutions.

The postdigital era: Bridging to a new basis of performance and competition

Mon, 10 Dec 2012 15:19:51 +0530

December 12, 2 p.m. EDT

Five major technology-based forces are impacting most businesses in the market today - mobile, analytics, social media, cloud and cyber intelligence. With each being relatively new and all rapidly evolving, how can technology executives deal with their potential for positive disruption in both business and IT? We'll discuss:

- The five forces and their evolving paths to become the major factors they represent today

- How these forces could transform operating models, business models and industries

- Examples of companies that have realized business advantage at the intersection of these forces

Learn how the convergence of these postdigital forces presents an opportunity for IT to help elevate business performance.

Is user empowerment worth the disruption?

Fri, 30 Nov 2012 18:01:48 +0530

Health Care Reform Memo: Special edition

Tue, 20 Nov 2012 19:07:57 +0530

With the re-election of President Obama, and the party controls in the U.S. House and U.S. Senate unchanged, the work ahead is now the focus. And health reform, the issue second only to the economy in the $6 billion campaign, is at the top of the list.

Look before you leap: Navigating risks in emerging markets

Tue, 20 Nov 2012 19:05:52 +0530

Given the potential for compliance risks in emerging markets, companies should carefully conduct due diligence before making investments or engaging third parties and should consider performing ongoing due diligence of existing business relationships and third parties.

As enticing as opportunities in emerging markets may be, our survey results suggest that "look before you leap" should be the mantra as companies plan their emerging market strategies.

Sell-side considerations for middle-market companies

Tue, 20 Nov 2012 19:04:55 +0530

This article explores the issues and challenges company owners face leading up to and during the sale process, among them: determining the preferred time to pursue a transaction; identifying and vetting interested buyers; deciding whether to pursue one-to-one negotiation or a broad auction process; and managing post-transaction issues such as employee retention and disparate compensation strategies.

Annual holiday survey: Smartphone shoppers help make retailers’ registers jingle this season

Tue, 20 Nov 2012 19:03:54 +0530

Online and mobile shopping gets consumers in the spirit; in-store service may seal the deal. Smartphones may be among retailers’ strongest allies this holiday season, according to Deloitte’s annual holiday survey of consumer spending intentions and trends.

Subscribe to the future - Tech Trends 2013

Tue, 20 Nov 2012 19:03:10 +0530

Subscribe to be among the first to receive the next installment of Tech Trends - Deloitte Consulting LLP's annual review of the leading technology trends impacting business today and into the future.

Every year, based on insight from our technology subject matter specialists, input from some of our largest clients and discussions with industry analysts and alliance members, we identify the 10 trends that we anticipate will have an impact for the CIO in the coming year and beyond. For 2013, the trends will include big data, social engineering, proactive cyber defense and mobility beyond smartphones and tablets.

Understanding the SGR: Analyzing the "doc fix"

Thu, 15 Nov 2012 18:35:37 +0530

The debate around Medicare Part B’s Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) is important to short-term policy-making around physician payments and longer-term issues of fiscal sustainability of the overall health system.

Leadership wanted: The public’s view of the manufacturing industry today

Tue, 6 Nov 2012 19:11:51 +0530

The American public continues to show very strong support for manufacturing and a deep understanding of the economic benefits that result from a vibrant manufacturing sector. Yet, Americans continue to have mixed views regarding the future of manufacturing in the United States.

The state of the cybersecurity workforce

Tue, 6 Nov 2012 19:10:48 +0530

Cybersecurity affects every agency, program and employee, and has become an even greater challenge to manage as global networks become more susceptible to risk. Learn how agency CIOs can develop cyber strategies and support the desired goals to recruit, retain and develop the cyber workforce amidst the growing talent gap.

Strategies for going public: The challenging landscape for IPOs

Tue, 6 Nov 2012 19:09:18 +0530

The fourth edition of "Strategies for going public: The changing landscape for IPOs" aims to help organizations effectively prepare for an IPO. It provides a straightforward explanation of the process, highlights the common technical terms and language encountered during an IPO, and outlines the new regulatory requirements that organizations will need to take into account as they seek to "go public."

International Tax Review - energy guide

Tue, 6 Nov 2012 19:07:53 +0530

International Tax Review published its third energy industry guide, in association with Deloitte, analyzing the tax and transfer pricing implications for taxpayers operating across the oil and gas sector.

The guide offers an insight into the sector and provides readers with a non-technical background with the latest information on how energy companies are taking advantage of nontraditional energy sources and updating techniques used for decades.

Subscribe to the future - Tech Trends 2013

Tue, 6 Nov 2012 19:06:33 +0530

Is outside-in architecture right for your company?

Tue, 6 Nov 2012 19:04:42 +0530

Outside-in architecture connects partners, suppliers and other external parties to a company’s ecosystem. While this design is growing in popularity, does the ability to share information with third parties justify the cost of replacing your current centralized architecture?

Recently, increased competition has led some companies to embrace an emerging IT architecture model that supports information sharing among internal and external parties. Advocates of this "outside-in architecture" approach argue it will soon become an essential element of business results. Yet this notion meets with resistance from companies that have invested heavily over the years in creating and maintaining a traditional, centralized IT architecture. Their reaction is understandable, and it raises the question of whether companies should divert resources toward a new architectural model that has yet to mature and demonstrate its longer-term value to the enterprise.

Is user empowerment worth the disruption?

Tue, 6 Nov 2012 19:02:12 +0530

Employees are expecting access to ever-more-sophisticated technologies in the workplace. Empowering users with such tools can generate value, but is there a point where CIOs should put the brakes on continual technology disruption?

Not too long ago, employees began asking CIOs to make business systems user-friendly. Shortly thereafter, these same employees began expecting CIOs to provide the kind of simple, innovative technologies they became accustomed to in their personal lives. Today, they want personal and contextual functionality and an IT environment in which everyone can use effective apps to accomplish their tasks - regardless of being internal or third party. Some claim empowering users in the workplace with leading-edge technologies can spur productivity and efficiency. Yet, others may wonder if the ongoing disruption caused by largely unproven innovations may be too high a price to pay for such gains. Should going "all in" with user empowerment be a business imperative?

Survey invitation: How is social business evolving within organizations?

Tue, 6 Nov 2012 18:53:28 +0530

Join MIT Sloan Management Review and Deloitte as we begin our second annual research study to understand the evolution of social business within organizations.

In our first research study, we learned that a majority (52%) of survey respondents believe social business is important or somewhat important to their business, and a very high majority (86%) believe this will be true in three years. We discovered enthusiasm around social software and a strong view that leadership and a clear vision are needed for effective adoption. Our survey pointed to marketing and innovation as specific areas for capturing value, while our interviews suggested operations and leadership stand to benefit as well. We also learned there is a great deal of uncertainty around issues surrounding measurement, and that very little measuring of ""social"" is taking place.

Our second report will explore and extend these findings, as well as expand into new related areas, including how companies continue to develop and expand social capabilities, where and how measurement is appropriate as companies move along this trajectory, and examples of cutting edge applications of social in business.

We're eager to hear how you and your company are thinking about social business and what you're doing to evolve social business within your organization. Please take the survey now.

User empowerment: envisioning the digital future

Thu, 1 Nov 2012 20:37:01 +0530

Dbriefs webcast - November 1, 2 p.m. EDT

As users adopt more intuitive, innovative technologies in their personal lives, their expectations of how technology works in the workplace have changed irreversibly, too. Users are unlikely to accept anything less in their professional lives than they have at home. How can technology executives use this movement to their advantage? We’ll discuss:

- What user empowerment is and the implications of consumerization and democratization of IT

- Types of investments companies are making in design-led solutions today

- Examples of companies empowering technology in the hands of their users

Hear how user empowerment can help stoke and harness the power of your workforce, customers and trading partners.

Health care industry megatrends

Thu, 1 Nov 2012 14:22:41 +0530

Learn more about the seven widely used megatrends affecting the health care industry. These mega trends require the health care industry to look around the corner and confront the "new normal."

Subscribe to the future - Tech Trends 2013

Thu, 1 Nov 2012 14:21:15 +0530

No debate here ─ shoppers’ spirits are brighter

Thu, 1 Nov 2012 14:20:15 +0530

According to Deloitte's 2012 annual holiday survey, omnichannel shoppers are expected to spend 71 percent more on gifts than store-only shoppers.

Energy independence and security: A reality check

Thu, 1 Nov 2012 14:18:40 +0530

Every president since Richard Nixon has explicitly called for either "energy independence" or, at least, increased "energy security." The real issue is not independence from all foreign oil, but reducing oil imports from unfriendly nations, diversifying our supply of energy sources and ensuring that no nation can effectively manipulate markets against our national interests.

So while U.S. energy independence may be unattainable in the foreseeable future, energy security is a realistic and achievable goal. Read more in this new report.

2012 Deloitte-NASCIO cybersecurity study: State governments at risk

Thu, 1 Nov 2012 14:17:20 +0530

The second biennial Deloitte-National Association of State Chief Information Officers (NASCIO) Cybersecurity Study, conducted in the summer of 2012, assessed the security of state digital data and cyber assets administered by state chief information security officers (CISOs).

CISOs from 48 states and two U.S. territories participated in the survey, and 63 business official stakeholders from a broad cross-section of states responded to a parallel survey. The study highlights the challenges states and CIOs/CISOs face in protecting states’ critically important systems and data. The survey results call for a greater collaboration among state CIOs/CISOs and business/program leadership of the executive branch agencies and elected officials.

The 2013 Essential Tax and Wealth Planning Guide

Thu, 1 Nov 2012 14:16:05 +0530

As we face 2013, the uncertainty of our tax and legislative environment is coming to a head - we’re again facing possible tax rate changes along with the expected sunset of favorable wealth transfer policies on January 1. The 2013 Essential Tax and Wealth Planning Guide discusses opportunities available through the final few months of 2012 and the planning environment beyond, as policy makers continue a tax reform debate that could fundamentally change how individual taxpayers compute their taxes.

The Affordable Care Act timeline

Mon, 22 Oct 2012 21:35:48 +0530

The Affordable Care Act (ACA) contains provisions to expand health care coverage, improve the delivery system and outcomes, and control costs.

Shaping the future: From meaningful use to meaningful user

Mon, 22 Oct 2012 21:35:00 +0530

Health care providers should focus on patient engagement, interoperability, clinical decision support and quality improvement as they work toward clinical transformation and achieving Meaningful Use Stage 2 requirements.

CFO Insights: Making decisions that matter

Mon, 22 Oct 2012 21:33:26 +0530

In this issue of CFO Insights, we will look at opportunities for chief financial officers (CFOs) and chief information officers (CIOs) to collaborate and drive more effective decision-making throughout their organizations as well as the barriers they face in making good decisions in the first place.

Dollar store strategies for national brands

Mon, 22 Oct 2012 21:27:12 +0530

The increasing consumer affinity toward new and improved dollar stores has caught the attention of both retailers and consumer product goods (CPG) companies. The shift in executives’ views on the importance of different channels over the last three years is testimony to the significance of this trend.

The core dollar-store consumers with low incomes have been well served by the dollar product offerings, prices and convenience. However, the new dollar consumers are surprised and appreciative of the national brand offerings and the dramatically improved in-store experience.

Consequently, it is important for CPG companies to make the dollar channel a strategic channel.

Defense continues to shrink, as commercial aerospace is taking off

Mon, 22 Oct 2012 21:26:26 +0530

Mid-year 2012 top 20 global aerospace and defense company financial performance analysis.

Radical cost reduction: Four levers to help health systems thrive in a post-reform environment

Mon, 22 Oct 2012 21:25:46 +0530

How can organizations achieve RCR over the next three-to-five years and find the transformative opportunities needed to thrive in a lean, post-reform environment?

Medicare and Medicaid

Mon, 22 Oct 2012 21:25:00 +0530

The U.S. health care system is in the midst of a transformation, driven in part by the Affordable Care Act and continued cost and quality concerns. Medicare and Medicaid are at the core of that transformation, and health plans are actively revisiting their strategic and operational approaches to how they manage and care for these populations.

State Medicaid program management: update and considerations

Mon, 22 Oct 2012 21:24:06 +0530

Effective management of state Medicaid programs is a hot-button issue. Facing ACA-driven enrollment increases amid slow economic recovery, constrained budgets and diminishing revenues, states need to find innovative ways to control costs while enhancing care management. This Issue Brief provides an update on state Medicaid programs and considerations for stakeholders seeking to improve quality and reduce costs.

Hybrid cloud: An idea whose time has come?

Wed, 17 Oct 2012 15:25:16 +0530

The hybrid cloud - a catalog of cloud services created and provisioned both inside and outside the enterprise - is a model growing in popularity among large companies. But how solid is the business case? And can companies effectively integrate data from multiple cloud sources? Join the debate.

The insight economy: Big data matters - except when it doesn’t

Wed, 17 Oct 2012 15:23:54 +0530

For a lot of executives, big data is the land of false promises and lost dreams - another overhyped trend in a long line of trends-that-weren’t. There’s definitely enough hype to give anyone a headache. What is big data - and why you should care?

The insight economy: Finding value in big (and small) data

Mon, 8 Oct 2012 16:26:29 +0530

You’ve probably seen the headlines - big data is this year’s media darling. While articles about big data keep coming, the marketplace may be lacking consensus on what exactly big data is and why anyone should care.

Deloitte CFO Signals survey: Economic, political worries depress large company CFOs’ expectations for earnings, investment, hiring

Mon, 1 Oct 2012 15:50:56 +0530

The quarterly survey, which tracks the thinking and actions of CFOs representing North American companies averaging more than $5 billion in annual revenue, found that 40 percent of CFOs report rising pessimism this quarter about their companies’ prospects (up from 28 percent last quarter). The outlook in the U.S. is worse with 47 percent of CFOs less optimistic.

Deloitte forecasts 3.5 to 4 percent increase in holiday sales

Mon, 1 Oct 2012 15:49:16 +0530

Deloitte’s Retail & Distribution practice expects total holiday sales to climb to between $920 and $925 billion, representing a 3.5 to 4 percent increase in November through January holiday sales (excluding motor vehicles and gasoline) over last season. This growth rate is below last year’s 5.9 percent gain.

The road worth taking on the workforce analytics journey

Fri, 21 Sep 2012 17:44:32 +0530

With the level of HR information maturity slowly increasing, there is an opportunity for organizations to use data and analytics to guide the organization forward in a way that makes a difference.

Sustainable cost management

Fri, 21 Sep 2012 17:43:38 +0530

State and local governments are exploring ways to be more efficient and effective in the face of a new fiscal reality. Deloitte can help government leaders adopt innovative, customer-focused approaches to service delivery, while realizing significant savings in operating and program costs.

Revenue and cash management

Fri, 21 Sep 2012 17:42:25 +0530

Deloitte brings broad perspectives and demonstrated solutions that can offer the appropriate balance and opportunities to drive revenue and growth.

Government innovation and action

Fri, 21 Sep 2012 17:41:27 +0530

Deloitte can assist government leaders in setting their agendas, identifying innovative solutions, transforming their organizations and delivering results with confidence.

Financial and administrative management solutions

Fri, 21 Sep 2012 17:40:16 +0530

Deloitte has the experience and knowledge to assist state and local governments in using technology as an enabler to achieve finance, procurement and human resource transformation.

Maximizing the value of employer-sponsored health care

Tue, 18 Sep 2012 15:33:25 +0530

Employer-sponsored health care plans are facing complex financial, regulatory and marketplace challenges. This Issue Brief reviews the current state of ESHC and suggests approaches that may help employers manage costs and win the competition for talent.

Talent 2020: Surveying the talent paradox from an employee perspective

Tue, 18 Sep 2012 15:32:18 +0530

The economic turbulence of the past few years has created a talent paradox: Amidst stubbornly high unemployment, employers still face challenges filling technical and skilled jobs. The latest report in Deloitte's longitudinal survey series sheds light on the employee perspective.

Brawn from brains:Talent, policy and the future of American competitiveness

Tue, 18 Sep 2012 15:30:24 +0530

The American workforce has reached an inflection point. Deloitte’s research indicates that there is a growing mismatch between the demand for talent and its current supply. This represents a significant challenge for job creation in the United States, particularly during a period of record-high unemployment. The demand for highly skilled and adaptable workers is accelerating, but the skill set of the country’s available talent is either outdated or out of stock.

Americans view talent development as a key driver to success. Thus, Washington’s long-term view must focus on developing a comprehensive talent policy for the 21st century - one that promotes a more highly skilled, adaptable and competitive American workforce. This report identifies six key policies associated with talent development and asks one simple question: Which options will accelerate talent development, and which will impede talent development?

Tax information reporting: The growing need for compliance technology

Tue, 18 Sep 2012 15:28:56 +0530

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is expanding information reporting and withholding requirements, including an increased focus on U.S. source income for foreign persons - now a Tier 1 tax examination issue. How can technology support the increasingly complex compliance process?

This report discusses the evolving tax information and reporting landscape, current compliance environment and common compliance issues. It also shares practical tips for addressing these issues and reviews processes and technologies that exist to help manage compliance.

Heads Up: SEC issues final rule on conflict minerals

Tue, 18 Sep 2012 15:26:44 +0530

This Heads Up discusses certain key provisions of the SEC’s recently issued final rule Conflict Minerals, which implements Section 1502 of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act. In addition, it includes appendixes containing the following:

(1) a summary of the differences between the proposed rule and final rule,
(2) a flowchart for determining the reporting and disclosure requirements related to conflict minerals,
(3) information about leading industry and nongovernmental organization initiatives and
(4) information about key legislative and other initiatives.

Risk Intelligence: Explore our latest resources

Tue, 18 Sep 2012 15:25:44 +0530

Even in - especially in - a volatile environment like the one we face today, Risk Intelligent planning is critical. Yet, just about each new week brings a fresh set of headlines indicating that some of the world’s largest, most successful companies still have holes in their approaches to risk management. Explore our latest insights on risk strategies to learn more.

Audit Committee Brief: Understanding the CFO’s perspective

Tue, 18 Sep 2012 15:24:42 +0530

In many organizations, the role of the CFO is expanding, and associated pressures and expectations are increasing. Understanding what is top of mind for CFOs and communicating regularly can help enhance the effectiveness of the audit committee’s oversight role. By cultivating a robust relationship with the CFO, the audit committee can facilitate a mutual exchange of perspectives on reporting, economic, regulatory, governance and risk issues.

Econometric analysis for scenario-based planning

Tue, 18 Sep 2012 15:23:36 +0530

Companies that are well prepared and able to quickly execute strategically thought-out plans are better positioned to thrive during uncertainty.

Social business and regulatory compliance: What new challenges could you face?

Thu, 6 Sep 2012 14:51:31 +0530

Register for the Dbriefs webcast taking place on September 6 at 2 p.m. EDT.

The information on corporate social media sites may be subject to similar regulatory requirements as traditional content, but social-sphere activity may create situations not covered by traditional rules and risk frameworks. How can technology executives help their organizationa effectively govern the social business? We'll discuss:

- How social business has changed the dynamics of the regulatory environment

- Steps companies can take to develop an overall governance strategy for social media

- Case studies of organizations that have met the challenges associated with social media regulatory compliance

Learn ways technology executives can address compliance with regard to social-sphere activities and resulting data in the social media channels.

Leading the multigenerational finance department

Thu, 6 Sep 2012 14:47:42 +0530

By making a finance talent strategy a priority and collaborating with the human resources function to make current programs finance specific, CFOs can pave the way for an inclusive work environment that values, rewards and develops employees across generations, reduces costly turnover, and increases finance employee engagement and productivity. In other words, CFOs can create the multigenerational team he or she needs.

A view of the U.S. health care system

Thu, 6 Sep 2012 14:46:43 +0530

Health care reform is center stage in the 2012 election. Take a look at some of the factors in play.

Emerging technologies: Going geek

Mon, 3 Sep 2012 18:32:11 +0530

Leaders in every function need to look beyond the hype and understand both the opportunities and risks associated with new technologies ─ and that means going geek. Explore our latest resources to learn more.

Is social media too risky for your company?

Mon, 3 Sep 2012 18:30:31 +0530

An inadvertent social media post containing sensitive information can land a company in hot water with regulators and inflict considerable damage on the business. Given this exposure, is it possible for organizations to govern social media in ways that effectively manage risk?

If an account manager inadvertently includes sensitive firm information in an update to his own profile on a professional or personal social networking site, will regulators find out? If they do, will they really care?

The answer to both questions is yes. For all of its potential value, social media exposes regulated companies to increased risk. Some may argue this increased risk is manageable. Others, however, feel the potential risks are just too great - the damage that regulatory non-compliance could inflict far outweighs social media’s value to the enterprise. Join the debate.

Cracking the code on supply and demand

Tue, 28 Aug 2012 17:46:29 +0530

Read this new blog post on the use of analytics in a company's supply chain. Using data in the supply chain isn’t new - it's different. .

As shared services matures, how is it evolving? [Infographic]

Tue, 21 Aug 2012 15:30:57 +0530

Shared services is no longer the new kid on the block. Although the basic concept has hardly changed, it’s being applied today on a much larger scale.

Provider 2020

Tue, 21 Aug 2012 15:30:20 +0530

A number of factors are converging to make the next decade the most tumultuous in the history of the health care industry. Deloitte takes a closer look at a strategic response to the path forward.

2012 Deloitte survey of U.S. employers

Tue, 21 Aug 2012 15:29:50 +0530

Deloitte’s 2012 survey of U.S. employers reveals C-suite and HR executives’ opinions about the health care system, Affordable Care Act, and anticipated strategies for employee health benefits coverage and cost containment.

2012 U.S. survey of health care consumers

Tue, 21 Aug 2012 15:29:11 +0530

Our fifth annual survey provides a comprehensive view of health care consumerism, exploring consumers’ behaviors, attitudes and unmet needs.

The unintended consequences of the Hatch-Waxman Act

Tue, 21 Aug 2012 15:27:44 +0530

Learn how companies can apply innovative solutions to the current and future challenges derived from health care reform.

What is your data trying to tell you?

Tue, 21 Aug 2012 15:26:45 +0530

Business analytics uses data to drive business strategy and performance. It includes a range of capabilities - from looking backward to evaluate what happened in the past, to forward-looking approaches like scenario planning and predictive modeling. Explore our latest resources to learn how analytics can deliver uncommon insights and breakout value.

Improving performance: Addressing industry challenges

Mon, 13 Aug 2012 16:38:21 +0530

Watch our short video case study to learn how the Deloitte CRG team worked with the Las Vegas Review-Journal to help the newspaper improve their overall performance so that it could continue to serve as a trusted source of news and information for the greater Las Vegas community.

Ripple effects: Why water is a CFO issue

Mon, 13 Aug 2012 16:37:24 +0530

For CFOs in any business, the time to create a water stewardship strategy is before you need one. Potential rewards of early action include enhanced brand value, a head start on water risk mitigation, greater confidence in your license to operate in specific markets and an added measure of security around the prospects for business continuity in what may become an increasingly unpredictable environment. Given that unpredictability, it behooves CFOs to prepare for water scarcity now and reduce the ripple effects.

HR shared services and outsourcing: Boldly going where they’ve never gone before...a new future state

Mon, 13 Aug 2012 16:36:22 +0530

There was a time when simply deploying a shared services model or outsourcing some parts of HR meant your organization was on the leading edge of HR efficiency, effectiveness and compliance. Today that’s not the case. HR shared services and outsourcing are evolving beyond administrative and foundational HR functions (compensation, benefits, employee data, job changes and the like) to encompass even greater-value services, such as workforce analytics, succession planning and employee relations.

Business and technology: Trending the trends

Mon, 13 Aug 2012 16:34:31 +0530

Individually, technology trends such as mobility, cloud computing, analytics and gamification are making organizations more efficient. When these capabilities collide, however, they can potentially reshape operating models, business models - and even industries and markets. Watch this episode of Deloitte Insights to learn more.

Smarter maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO)

Mon, 6 Aug 2012 17:09:31 +0530

Five strategies for increasing speed, improving reliability and reducing costs - all at the same time. Although each of the five strategies has different impacts, when combined they affect the efficiency and effectiveness of the whole MRO function. Excellence in these five strategies represents nothing more than a fundamental transformation of capabilities.

Global aerospace and defense industry sluggish in 2011

Mon, 6 Aug 2012 16:47:58 +0530

A new report indicates that the financial performance gap between commercial and defense sectors is widening, and U.S. growth is outpacing Europe. According to the study, the industry achieved 3.3 percent revenue growth in the U.S. in 2011, while it grew less than one percent (0.8 percent) in Europe.

Deloitte survey: Back-to-school shoppers ready to spend, prepared for higher prices at checkout

Mon, 6 Aug 2012 16:42:03 +0530

Consumers’ days of cutting back-to-school spending are behind them, and shoppers are reverting to more traditional information sources to study up before heading to the store, according to Deloitte’s annual "back-to-school" survey.

Driving change

Mon, 6 Aug 2012 16:32:54 +0530

Increased globalization and rapid advancements in technology are creating new market opportunities for organizations that can understand and anticipate their impact - and headaches for those that are struggling to keep up. A focus on scale efficiencies may fall short. Transformative change requires companies to rethink even the primary objective of why they exist and drastically shift their management mindset. Explore our latest insights to learn more.

Manufacturing opportunity: How America can regain global leadership in manufacturing

Mon, 6 Aug 2012 16:31:00 +0530

Today there are new pathways to manufacturing opportunity in America that are both available and achievable. And public policy has a major role to play in supporting these directions.

This report relies on collaborative efforts with a number of organizations working on important issues affecting the manufacturing industry, as well as surveys of American citizens, business and labor leaders, university presidents and directors of some of the United States’ largest national laboratories. It presents a case for optimism - and for hard work. It examines some of the main challenges facing any attempt to cultivate an American manufacturing renaissance, and highlights recommendations that could help the United States overcome these roadblocks.

Use analytics to pull the pricing lever

Mon, 6 Aug 2012 16:16:34 +0530

Price management initiatives have been shown to help companies increase their margins by 2 to 7 percent within a year, producing a 200 to 350 percent return on investment . So why is pricing so far down the list of options for organizations looking to improve performance?

Health care reform: Center stage 2012

Mon, 6 Aug 2012 16:05:58 +0530

Health care reform is center stage in 2012 - prominent in the public consciousness, thanks to constant political and legislative skirmishes over the future of the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Because of the health care industry’s dynamic and complex nature, the opinions of citizens and key constituents upon which policy is built should be regularly monitored. Their views of the health care system and health care reform are critically important to guide and inform the policy makers who oversee its functions.

For that reason, Deloitte has surveyed thousands of Americans over the last year - consumers, physicians and employers - about their opinions of health care reform. The resulting report brings together unique, data-driven insights on these stakeholders’ perspectives, gathered through three research studies conducted by the Deloitte Center for Health Solutions: the "2012 survey of health care consumers in the United States,""Physician perspectives about health care reform and the future of medicine" (2011) and the "Deloitte employer survey" (2012). Occasional data are also drawn from the "2011 survey of health care consumers in the United States."

Still standing: Planning for the high-wealth tax increases ahead

Mon, 6 Aug 2012 16:04:21 +0530

The Supreme Court’s decision to uphold the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act of 2010 means that two new tax increases in the health care reform law targeting earned and unearned income of certain wealthier individuals will take effect as scheduled in 2013.

This report examines these provisions and discusses practical steps taxpayers can take now to evaluate their tax positions for 2013 and prepare for the impact of these impending tax hikes.

Smart government: IT as a force multiplier

Mon, 6 Aug 2012 15:50:44 +0530

Government leaders can allow the budget crunch to be a crisis, or an opportunity to be more cost effective and re-think how business is done. Learn how IT transformation has the potential to be a catalyst for "smart government" and serve as a force multiplier for future mission success.

Guarding against cyber threats

Mon, 30 Jul 2012 17:06:16 +0530

In this issue of CFO Insights, we examine how to take a more risk intelligent view of cyber threats and outline steps companies can take toward more effective cyber threat risk governance.

Deloitte’s Consumer Spending Index posts its fourth monthly increase as the housing market turns up

Mon, 30 Jul 2012 17:04:57 +0530

Responding to improvements in the housing market, the Deloitte Consumer Spending Index (Index) posted its fourth consecutive increase in June. The Index tracks consumer cash flow as an indicator of future consumer spending.

Lease accounting readiness

Mon, 30 Jul 2012 16:10:26 +0530

Proposed directive calls for data collection and analysis of leasing arrangements.

Using analytics to reduce the specter of capitalizing all operating leases[Infographic]

Mon, 30 Jul 2012 16:08:52 +0530

Use any metaphor that comes to mind: going down the rabbit hole, stepping into the looking glass, landing in an alternate universe - whatever your preference, the depiction is apt.

Sustainability: Top 50 green brands

Mon, 30 Jul 2012 16:04:53 +0530

Deloitte is proud to have once again contributed its deep knowledge of sustainability performance management to Interbrand’s Best Global Green Brands 2012 list. View the rankings and learn how your organization might profit from closing the performance-perception gap.

The gamification of business: It’s not child’s play

Thu, 12 Jul 2012 21:19:48 +0530

Gamification applies principles that inspire people to play games - achievements, status and rewards - to radically change the way companies do business. How can technology executives use gamification to drive deeper engagement, increase alignment with corporate goals and improve performance? We’ll discuss:

- What gamification is and how it differs from serious gaming and simulations - The types of investments that companies are making in gamification today - Real-world examples of how companies are applying game mechanics for business advantage to drive unprecedented engagement with customers, employees and stakeholders

Register for the 7/12 Dbriefs webcast to hear how gamification could transform the incentives, behavior, engagement and performance of your workforce and customers.

As corruption concerns rise, few fear UK Bribery Act: Deloitte poll

Mon, 9 Jul 2012 16:48:05 +0530

U.S. regulators increase Foreign Corrupt Practices Act cases brought against individuals.

A look around the corner

Mon, 9 Jul 2012 16:46:51 +0530

Health system CEOs and their organizations face challenges that are at once unprecedented, predictable and unknown - a "new normal" that represents the biggest test thus far in their professional careers.

CFO Signals: 2012 Q2 results

Mon, 9 Jul 2012 16:44:04 +0530

Last quarter’s comparative reprieve from terrible news about Europe and the broader global economy yielded a substantial rise in CFO optimism - although this is not saying much given the two quarters of dismal CFO sentiment we saw in last half of 2011. CFOs were still voicing strong concerns, however, about slow growth at home, government stagnation - especially going into an election year in the U.S. - and the potential for renewed global economic volatility.

Biopharma customer facing model V2.0

Mon, 9 Jul 2012 16:43:21 +0530

Biopharma companies should consider shifting their sales models toward an account based selling approach that focuses on coordination of field activities within a particular ecosystem.

The case for change

Mon, 9 Jul 2012 16:42:31 +0530

The health care landscape is expected to evolve over the next decade. Find out how changes will affect multiple stakeholders, including providers, health plans, employers, state governments and biopharma companies.

Increase efficiency across the enterprise

Mon, 9 Jul 2012 16:40:50 +0530

Rising worry about Europe and domestic policy and continued economic uncertainty are driving many companies to hunker down and focus on more industry- and company-level issues. To accelerate, leaders are looking inward at what they can control within their organizations.

Explore our latest insights on streamlining operations across the enterprise.

How does data science differ from traditional analytics functions?

Tue, 3 Jul 2012 11:35:36 +0530

Read and discuss how the data scientist role is essential to an organization that wants to manage big data in our new Short Takes on Analytics blog by Tom Davenport.

Take a quick look: Cloud adoption across the enterprise

Tue, 3 Jul 2012 11:32:40 +0530

Cloud adoption is rising at an astounding rate. Companies with the most success are those that understand business leaders across the enterprise must be involved in the transition. This brief, web-format series addresses how companies can increase the chances of a successful transition - across organizations - by pursuing a holistic cloud adoption strategy.

Deloitte Insights: Viva la mobile revolution

Tue, 3 Jul 2012 11:29:30 +0530

As many companies realize their customers and employees spend a lot more time with their mobile devices than their laptops or desktops, "mobile first" is replacing "mobile friendly," triggering disruption and innovation across industries.

The latest episode of Deloitte Insights features Shehryar Khan, former chief executive officer and president of the Seattle-based digital agency Übermind, and Mike Brinker, both principals with Deloitte Consulting LLP. Tune in to learn more about how mobile is impacting business.

Gamification: Should business take games seriously?

Tue, 3 Jul 2012 11:25:57 +0530

Many companies are applying the essence of games - fun, play and passion - to real-world business situations as a way to influence behaviors in everything from back-office tasks and training, to sales management and career counseling. Using game attributes that resonate with their target audiences, companies can often achieve higher performance.

That’s all well and good for employee and even customer engagement, but can businesses apply gaming principles to solve more serious challenges - like strategy development and innovation? Read the Debate and join the conversation.

Smartphones will influence $689 billion in retail store sales by 2016: Deloitte study

Tue, 3 Jul 2012 11:22:50 +0530

Mobile phones currently influence 5.1 percent of annual retail store sales, translating into $159 billion in forecasted sales for 2012, according to new Deloitte research. For the first time in the industry, the in-depth study measures the "mobile influence factor," or impact of mobile devices on in-stores sales.

2012 U.S. survey of health care consumers

Fri, 22 Jun 2012 15:31:37 +0530

The five-year anniversary of our survey provides a comprehensive view of health care consumerism, exploring consumers’ behaviors, attitudes and unmet needs.

Improving housing data drives the Deloitte Consumer Spending Index's third monthly increase

Fri, 22 Jun 2012 15:30:47 +0530

In May, the Deloitte Consumer Spending Index (Index) posted its first three-month increase since September 2010, primarily due to an ongoing slowdown in declining new home prices.

Anticipate to accelerate

Fri, 22 Jun 2012 14:34:24 +0530

To pursue opportunities presented by reform, companies must consider the impact of change before it actually hits them. That kind of foresight positions companies to adapt internally and get ahead of reform - and the competition. Explore our latest insights on Dodd-Frank, health care reform and more.

Tech Trend #10: Outside-in architecture

Fri, 22 Jun 2012 14:23:53 +0530

For decades, businesses typically have been rewarded for consolidation around standard processes and stockpiling assets through people, technology and goods. Operations were assumed to be confined within organizational boundaries, with transactions viewed as short-lived events following well-defined steps. Systems were built primarily to enhance execution within their own self-contained scope of control.

Conventional wisdom about these principles is changing, and it’s changing fast. Companies are discovering they need a new kind of leverage - capability leverage - to mobilize third parties that can add value. Outside-in architecture requires an organization to think about its operations and processes as a collection of business capabilities or services. Each individual service can then be examined to determine how it can be most effectively fulfilled - either by strategically standardizing on existing package solutions or custom technology investments; or by sourcing through platform, software or business services available through the cloud.

As outside-in becomes the new normal, standards will emerge and platforms will likely evolve to decrease the cost of provisioning, managing and controlling each step in long-running processes. In the short-term, however, this architectural transition requires new skills from the CIO and the IT organization. CIOs who anticipate and understand the opportunity are likely to become much more effective business partners with other executive leaders.

What can this trend mean for you and your business? Read more in "Tech Trends 2012: Elevate IT for digital business."

Business analytics for mid-sized companies: Leveling the playing field

Fri, 15 Jun 2012 21:29:16 +0530

Until recently, a company’s level of technological sophistication was often pre-determined by how much it could afford to invest. But the advent of cloud technology has leveled the playing field for smaller companies with limited budgets, enabling them to leverage the benefits that cloud computing offers, especially in the area of data analytics.

What is keeping CFOs up at night?

Fri, 15 Jun 2012 21:28:27 +0530

Explore 10 things on the minds of today's CFOs. Individually, each concern signifies an area of subject matter expertise that finance must deliver; taken together they illustrate just how crucial finance leadership is to the day-to-day operation of any organization.

Divesting your shared service center

Fri, 15 Jun 2012 21:27:09 +0530

A window of opportunity has opened up for companies with mature shared service centers (SSC) to monetize them by selling them to an outsourcing service provider. This can generate immediate cash, and through the relationship with the service provider, further savings and service improvements can be realized.

Deloitte and BlackLine Systems finalize strategic alliance

Mon, 11 Jun 2012 16:22:08 +0530

After years of working together on finance transformation projects assisting large companies in the successful implementation of BlackLine software, Deloitte, one of the largest professional services organizations in the United States, and BlackLine Systems, one of the world’s leading financial technology solutions companies, have formalized a strategic business alliance.

Audit Committee Brief: Finance and the war for talent

Mon, 11 Jun 2012 16:20:45 +0530

For the past 20 years, there has been a talent war. Today, fresh from economic battles, domestic and global companies may face shortages in their finance leadership pipelines. As companies face greater business challenges in response to increased globalization and financial regulation, the skills required of finance executives continue to expand.

The untold story of America’s debt

Mon, 11 Jun 2012 16:19:20 +0530

New Deloitte research reveals that America's national debt crisis is likely more severe and immediate than previously thought, potentially affecting monetary policy and global competitiveness. Explore the five unexamined and potentially game-changing risks posed by the U.S. debt.

Value-based Pricing for Pharmaceuticals

Mon, 11 Jun 2012 16:18:05 +0530

In a new value-driven health care system, payment linked to performance is a paradigm shift that calls for pharmaceutical companies to innovate in product commercialization and pricing. This Issue Brief summarizes what is known to date about value-based pricing and identifies opportunities for additional exploration.

Social business: Should leaders stand back or jump in?

Mon, 11 Jun 2012 16:16:01 +0530

Deloitte and MIT Sloan Management Review surveyed more than 3,400 enterprise leaders and managers around the globe to learn whether social networking and software are transforming their businesses. We found that many respondents use social technologies to better understand and connect with their customers. Others use social business tools to push employee interests, ideas and knowledge across the enterprise. While 52 percent of the survey respondents said social business is at least somewhat important to their enterprises today, many leaders of organizations have not joined the trend. Are they wise to hold back? Or should they get started now? Join the debate today.

Tapping untapped markets

Mon, 11 Jun 2012 16:13:21 +0530

From the retail industry to financial services, many companies are looking beyond their borders for unparalleled potential growth. But entering new markets is not as simple as signing a lease and opening doors. There are fundamental implications for a company's business strategy, operating model and risk management. Explore our latest insights for guidance on pursuing emerging market growth - and tapping untapped opportunities too great to ignore.

Deloitte Shadow Banking Index Debuts: ‘Only’ $9.53 Trillion in Size at End of 2011

Wed, 30 May 2012 16:22:39 +0530

New quarterly index tracks changes in shadow banking; regulatory changes and new innovations anticipated to be big drivers of future fluctuation...

The shadow banking system in the United States might not be as large today as regulators and market participants feared, according to a new quarterly index introduced today by the Deloitte Center for Financial Services.

Raise Your Pricing IQ

Wed, 30 May 2012 16:21:10 +0530

Many businesses have trouble measuring their pricing IQ. They can't identify which products are performing well and which aren't. While a high pricing IQ lets businesses take the next step toward wealth creation, low economic intelligence leaves them hard pressed to make choices, design plans or make strategic decisions.

Tech Trend #8: Digital Identities

Wed, 23 May 2012 16:15:54 +0530

The digital expression of identity grows increasingly complex every day. Not long ago, an employee’s entire digital presence belonged almost exclusively to the employer, a practice that culminated in the mainframe ID. As enterprise technology expanded to include new tools and platforms, the number of digital identities grew. Today, many workers must manage a dozen or more user names and passwords across different roles on different systems to do their jobs.

Outside their workplaces, users established personal credentials on banking portals, consumer products sites, loyalty and reward programs, e-commerce retailers, local government services, home insurance policies and even remote access to cable TV. Along the way, these personal digital identities have continued to blend into the digital enterprise.

Organizations see the power in providing this identity - a logical, single, overall digital identity with a unified view, brokered across several different systems and security profiles. Today, industry groups and government bodies are pushing broader efforts that may become the backbone of a more substantial digital identity.

Does this trend lead to a universal digital identity, seamlessly crossing between professional, private and social lives? Enterprises today have a mandate to more seamlessly manage and enable digital identities for the personas of their employees, customers and partners, within and across enterprises; all of which lays the groundwork for shaping and creating a truly universal digital identity.

What can this trend mean for you and your business? Read more in Tech Trends 2012: Elevate IT for digital business.

Do Something About It

Wed, 23 May 2012 16:14:00 +0530

For multinational manufacturers, the links between strategy, business activities and enterprise value can be unclear. Can pricing analytics help?

Workforce analytics as a sales tool? Here’s how

Wed, 23 May 2012 16:11:16 +0530

We’ve discussed here on HR Times the rise of workforce analytics as a tool to give HR leaders insights that can help them support broad organizational goals. In fact, workforce analytics is one of the eight human capital trends discussed in the report Leap Ahead. Another is HR’s growing role in supporting sales force effectiveness, which has HR implications ranging from talent strategies and organization design to learning and development, compensation, governance and change management.

Understanding the economics of a business: Top down or bottom up?

Wed, 23 May 2012 16:09:38 +0530

The world's largest, savviest investment firms value a company by looking at the returns it generates above and beyond the cost of capital. Yet many companies still run their businesses based on traditional accounting and operational metrics that don't explicitly consider the cost of capital and assets. Should you follow the lead of sophisticated investors and apply a value-based approach to managing your business? And if so, what's an effective way to do it?

Emerging technologies: Digital disruption

Wed, 23 May 2012 16:07:29 +0530

Digital integration has gone from nicety to necessity. Organizations have unprecedented opportunity to engage customers, empower employees, drive business and build brand awareness across billions of devices. Business as usual has been disrupted - don’t get left behind.

What strategic buyers want to know about structuring the perfect M&A deal

Wed, 23 May 2012 16:06:35 +0530

The consummation of a strategic acquisition is never easy, whether you've done it once, or a number of times. In fact, at times the complex reporting requirements of the business combination rules can make the process seem overwhelming. Getting advisers involved early, having a view as to what others are doing in the marketplace, and successfully navigating a few of the more complicated areas, however, can be extremely helpful in ensuring your deal meets expectations rather than falling short of its mark.

Life insurance providers could benefit by increasing outreach and education, Deloitte survey reveals

Wed, 23 May 2012 16:05:39 +0530

A prime reason many uninsured individuals don't have insurance coverage is that no carrier has invited them to purchase their products, according to a Deloitte survey of life insurance buyers. Even insured individuals who are open to buying additional coverage often say that they have not been solicited by carriers.

Deloitte Digital debuts to help clients provoke and harvest the value of digital disruption

Sun, 20 May 2012 20:12:42 +0530

Back in January, we announced the acquisition of Übermind, a mobile-focused digital agency. Since then, we’ve been working on a bigger initiative that has evolved into Deloitte Digital.

This week, we’re excited to introduce you to Deloitte Digital - a global service line focused on helping clients harness digital technologies to transform their business. Deloitte Digital’s offerings include strategy, mobile, social, web, digital content and digital ERP. In addition to studios across the U.S., Deloitte Digital will also have a presence in Australia and the U.K.

"The launch of Deloitte Digital combines the strengths of a creative agency, a leading IT consultancy and an industry-centric business strategy provider in one company and allows Deloitte to help clients unleash the business value of these emerging technologies," said John Kerr, managing director, global consulting, Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited.

Learn more about Deloitte Digital by checking out our slick new responsive website: http://deloittedigital.com.

Should big data drive big decisions?

Wed, 9 May 2012 20:58:35 +0530

This year, many companies are taking on big data - ramping up tools and technologies to find signals and insight in unstructured, often external, and generally messy data.

Big data analytics can open a window into an intricate world of customers, employees and operations that hasn’t been easily accessible before. While leaders can gain fresh insights that are immediate and real, should they use big data to drive far-reaching business decisions? Join the debate today.

Unlock the potential in your data

Wed, 9 May 2012 20:57:19 +0530

Talent Edge 2020: Redrafting talent strategies for the uneven recovery - Perspectives from the Oil & Gas sector

Thu, 3 May 2012 22:07:42 +0530

While other sectors are focusing more on developing leaders and succession planning, Oil and gas sector’s primary focus is recruiting hard-to-find skill sets in the face of looming talent shortage. Read this report to learn more about the key talent trends in oil and gas sector.

HR in the financial services industry? Most are paying too much.

Wed, 2 May 2012 21:27:27 +0530

We all know the financial services industry has been under the microscope in the past few years, but a new Deloitte Consulting benchmarking study focuses the attention on a different aspect of FSI operations: HR. What’s revealed may seem like piling on to change-weary FSI organizations.

Turning strategic ambiguity into strategic clarity

Wed, 2 May 2012 21:26:41 +0530

Explore how CFOs can leverage data and the planning and performance management cycles to address multiple aspects of strategic risk, and in the process create opportunities for themselves to serve as business strategists and catalysts.

Deloitte acquires assets of CRG Partners

Wed, 2 May 2012 21:24:34 +0530

Acquisition propels Deloitte’s growth in the restructuring marketplace.

Solving the value puzzle - Factors mid-market companies should consider when evaluating M&A targets

Wed, 2 May 2012 21:22:46 +0530

An M&A deal can present game-changing opportunities for mid-market companies, which can open doors to new markets, fill gaps, improve operational performance and grow value. Potential buyers should balance financial hindsight with strategic foresight when vetting a target's value, especially one with depressed earnings. Buyers who extend their diligence beyond traditional valuation metrics - by analyzing strategic fit, root cause of depressed earnings, probability of improved performance and attainability of potential synergies - can gain a clearer picture of how a potential acquisition can help realize their long-term strategic vision.

Risk analytics: The three-minute guide

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 16:26:08 +0530

Many organizations want to take advantage of the benefits of risk analytics to proactively identify and understand sources of risk to limit risk exposure, or to take certain risks to generate returns. Risk analytics can help establish a baseline for measuring risk across the organization and offer executives clarity in identifying, viewing, understanding and managing risk.

Risk Intelligence trends and imperatives

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 16:25:15 +0530

A Risk Intelligent Enterprise is one where boards and executive-level management integrate risk considerations into strategic decision making, where business units and functions incorporate Risk Intelligence into every action they undertake. And managing with confidence begins by staying on top of hot topics such as cyber security, compliance and reputational risk.

Deloitte, Design + Construction Strategies Alliance provides energy management insight

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 16:24:35 +0530

Deloitte and DCStrategies will deliver services and solutions that help federal agencies and large real-estate portfolio owners meet complex and operational challenges related to energy management.

Carve-out financial statements: Why such a fuss?

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 16:23:28 +0530

Even the best laid plans can go awry in a carve-out, but understanding the intended purpose, describing and depicting the business appropriately, and then delving into some of the more challenging accounting issues sooner, rather than later, can certainly help streamline the process. Successfully navigating these waters requires early involvement from a number of constituents outside of the company’s internal accounting department, including, but not limited to, SEC counsel, the company’s senior management and the company’s external auditors. Even so, preparers need to realize that no two carve-outs are ever truly the same, nor does any "cookie cutter" approach to their preparation exist, and that simple message is what all the fuss is about.

Director qualification disclosures could impact proxy season

Thu, 19 Apr 2012 14:21:33 +0530

Leaders from Deloitte’s Center for Corporate Governance offer perspective on the 2012 proxy season as increased pressure to disclose detailed director credentials spurs scrutiny of board composition.

Five "must haves" to consider for outsourcing in service delivery transformation

Thu, 19 Apr 2012 14:19:25 +0530

Our observations of companies undertaking outsourcing as part of an SDT initiative suggest that the likelihood of achieving the desired outcomes can drop dramatically in the absence of certain critical processes. In particular, we have identified five specific areas where effective planning and execution can be especially important to an outsourcing effort.

Workforce analytics is a journey and a process

Thu, 19 Apr 2012 14:17:08 +0530

Everyone is talking about being smarter, but where does the analytics journey start for your workforce issues?

Are you mispricing investment risk?

Thu, 19 Apr 2012 14:15:15 +0530

Given the volatility in the marketplace, we recommend CFOs build the capacity to dynamically adjust expected rates of return and thoughtfully consider the ERP implications of industry and geographical diversification. Not doing so can result in the potential mispricing of risk when evaluating investment opportunities.

Celebrate Earth Day this month, drive green business year-round

Thu, 12 Apr 2012 22:02:13 +0530

It’s that time of year again - when Earth Day highlights environmental concerns and efforts. But leading executives know green business is smart business year-round. Organizations with a broader, more strategic plan for sustainability can not only drive efficiency and innovation across the enterprise, but also satisfy customer needs and influence how their suppliers operate.

Explore our latest sustainability insights to learn more.

Financial services M&A in 2012: A cross-sector outlook

Thu, 12 Apr 2012 22:01:00 +0530

Mergers and acquisitions (M&A) across the financial services spectrum could pick up in 2012 as banks, securities firms, insurance companies and asset managers react to regulatory mandates and competitive opportunities both here and abroad.

When it comes to enterprise mobility, can ‘slow and steady’ win the race?

Sat, 7 Apr 2012 20:55:06 +0530

In many organizations, mobile initiatives are popping up in almost every business unit, department and region. Some are pushing existing solutions and processes from the Web and desktop to mobile devices. Others are reimagining their business without location constraints. Both have the potential to improve efficiencies and effectiveness, but which is likely to have the more significant payback? Read the debate and cast your vote.

Technology Fast 500 call for nomination

Sat, 7 Apr 2012 20:53:17 +0530

Submit your nomination for Deloitte's 2012 Technology Fast 500, a list of the 500 fastest growing technology, media, telecommunications, life sciences and clean technology companies in the U.S. and Canada.

Deadline to submit: June 29, 2012.

Fraud analytics: The three-minute guide

Sat, 7 Apr 2012 20:51:46 +0530

Fraud analytics can provide insights that allow a company to manage potential threats before they occur as well as develop a proactive fraud and bribery detection environment.

Top 10 issues for insurance M&A in 2012

Sat, 7 Apr 2012 20:50:22 +0530

To prepare for an anticipated uptick in industry M&A activity, insurers should develop a strategy comprising three elements: business portfolio improvement to enhance existing assets, inorganic growth analysis to improve market position and M&A process excellence to embed M&A process knowledge.

CFO Signals: 2012 Q1 results

Sat, 7 Apr 2012 20:42:57 +0530

After two quarters of sharp declines, chief financial officer (CFO) optimism turned solidly positive in the first quarter of 2012, according to the most recent Deloitte CFO Signals survey. Moreover, CFOs’ outlooks toward earnings, capital investment and even hiring have improved. Only one sticking point remains - sales.

Leadership development: For the talented few, or for the masses?

Thu, 29 Mar 2012 14:16:02 +0530

Today, many talent professionals are facing a tough decision: Should we invest in programs and tools targeting a small pool of high-potential talent, or is it smarter to focus on developing leadership at every level?

Navigating the ICD-10 transition

Thu, 29 Mar 2012 14:15:05 +0530

As hospital and medical group leaders review ICD-10 implementation plans, they should remember that regardless of a potential new compliance date, the ICD-10 transition requires extensive planning.

The art and science of change

Thu, 29 Mar 2012 13:55:52 +0530

To achieve and sustain superior performance, organizations must evolve with the marketplace. But the when and how of strategic change are often up for debate.

Managing organizational change is both an art and science that requires knowledge of industry, economic and regulatory trends - and how your business fits into the landscape. Explore our latest insights on organizational, financial and operational performance to inform your strategy.

Workforce analytics: Using advanced analysis to manage talent and risk

Mon, 26 Mar 2012 15:42:54 +0530

Workforce analytics involves using statistical models that integrate internal and external data to predict future workforce and talent-related behavior and events.

Deloitte leverages eCommerce knowledge to improve website management on Adobe.com

Mon, 26 Mar 2012 15:42:09 +0530

Deloitte has implemented a new eCommerce solution at Adobe Systems Incorporated designed to enhance the management and customer experience of Adobe.com with significant and effective business results.

2012 Deloitte-AMIA health informatics industry maturity survey

Mon, 26 Mar 2012 15:41:05 +0530

Deloitte and the American Medical Informatics Association (AMIA) are working together to help industry stakeholders understand the maturity of health informatics in the life sciences, provider and health plan sectors.

The new health care workforce: Looking around the corner to future talent management

Mon, 26 Mar 2012 15:40:04 +0530

A fresh approach is needed to help ensure an adequate, effective U.S. health care workforce, including new ways of thinking about supply and demand. This Issue Brief shares findings and implications from Deloitte’s study of post-reform health care workforce transformation.

Power to the people?

Mon, 26 Mar 2012 15:38:39 +0530

Changes from the Affordable Care Act (ACA) are likely to increase the size of the individual health insurance segment and could result in a disruption of today’s group health insurance industry.

The voice of the personal lines consumer

Mon, 26 Mar 2012 15:35:15 +0530

Read our new survey of auto and homeowner insurance policyholders to find out why buyers are in the driver's seat.

Analytics in retail

Thu, 15 Mar 2012 15:36:33 +0530

To avoid getting lost in all the numbers, retailers should demand more from their data. Learn about six key areas where retailers can apply analytics to drive value for their stakeholders.

Introducing the Center for Regulatory Strategies

Thu, 15 Mar 2012 15:35:00 +0530

Businesses across most every industry face a wave of new regulation. In some cases the changes are so extensive that they may challenge the viability of some business models.

Deloitte’s Center for Regulatory Strategies is a powerful resource of information and insight on regulatory matters, including industry and regulatory specialists with expertise to help companies manage the complexity and convergence of rapidly increasing new regulation. The Center combines the strength of Deloitte’s nationwide network of experienced risk, regulatory and industry professionals, including a deep roster of former regulators, industry specialists and business advisors with a rich understanding of how multiple and converging regulations affect business.

IFRS being adopted in the United States

Thu, 15 Mar 2012 15:33:39 +0530

Watch the video to hear International Accounting Standards Board Chairman Hans Hoogervorst’s thoughts on International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) being adopted in the United States.

2011 IFRS Summit Center

Thu, 15 Mar 2012 15:32:06 +0530

Deloitte's online IFRS Summit Center features commentary and perspectives from International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) Chairman Hans Hoogervorst and U.S. Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) Chairman Leslie Seidman, who were the keynote speakers at Deloitte’s fourth annual summit.

Audit Committee Brief: What do audit committee reports disclose?

Thu, 15 Mar 2012 15:30:08 +0530

This Audit Committee Brief addresses current requirements with respect to audit committee reports and highlights areas where many audit committees are going beyond the required elements and providing additional transparency into their practices.

Keeping America safe: The new defense strategy

Thu, 15 Mar 2012 15:26:15 +0530

Department of Defense (DOD) officials have announced their plan for a proposed $614 billion budget in fiscal year 13 - and planned spending reductions of $487 billion over a decade. What is the impact on the new defense strategy moving forward? Hear the latest insights from former National Security Advisor General Jim Jones, USMC (Ret), General Chuck Wald and former Chairman of the House Government Reform Committee, the Honorable Tom Davis.

Highlights:

How the budget changes align with the defense strategy’s efforts to make the military leaner and more flexible and technologically advanced
What the focus will be on strengthening innovative partnerships and key alliances
A view from the hill - how Congress sees some of the acquisition challenges
The continued importance of public-private partnerships moving forward

Paving the path to compliance, opportunity

Thu, 15 Mar 2012 15:25:30 +0530

Explore our latest resources on regulatory and legislative reform.

Health plans look to the clouds

Thu, 15 Mar 2012 15:24:30 +0530

In the health information technology arena, cloud computing is a game changer. Health plans could benefit from the advantages that cloud computing provides.

Risk Angles: Five questions about risk committees

Thu, 15 Mar 2012 14:55:55 +0530

Board members have expressed increasing concern about their risk-oversight roles and responsibilities - and how best to fulfill them. This isn’t just an issue for financial services firms, where recent regulations have started to require (not just suggest) board-level risk committees. These days, a range of large organizations have begun exploring how risk committees can help them better navigate an uncertain economic and regulatory environment.

In this Risk Angle, Henry Ristuccia, Deloitte & Touche LLP partner and co-leader of Governance and Risk Management Services, answers questions about the value of board risk committees and what’s involved in establishing one. Afterward, Maureen Errity, director, Deloitte LLP Center for Corporate Governance, lends her perspective, based on recent research that analyzed trends around risk governance and oversight practices.

Top 10 issues for insurance M&A in 2012

Thu, 15 Mar 2012 14:54:39 +0530

Despite lingering market uncertainty, certain triggers could increase insurance industry M&A activity in the next 12 months.

Human Capital Trends 2012

Mon, 12 Mar 2012 18:37:51 +0530

Available now. It’s fitting that 2012 is a leap year, since a number of converging market trends are driving HR organizations to make significant leaps in capabilities and performance. HR faces a critical, dual imperative in 2012 - a focus on enabling both their organization’s overall growth agenda and on driving efficiency in the business of HR. This dual focus demands decisive action as the stakes are greater than ever.

mHealth: Transforming the face of health service delivery

Mon, 12 Mar 2012 18:34:44 +0530

A powerful combination of factors are driving mHealth service delivery across the globe. Rapid advances in mobile technologies, the integration of mobile health into existing eHealth services and the growth of cellular networks are leading the way. Hear firsthand from Dr. Mwendwa Mwenesi and Dr. Michael Cowan how mHealth is providing accessibility and affordability in global healthcare.

Highlights:

Why health experts and governments around the world are so optimistic about mHealth’s potential
Key obstacles mobile health is able to overcome compared to traditional "bricks and mortar" medical care
How mHealth is transforming the way health care is delivered in Tanzania
The impact mHealth is having on the United States health care delivery
Innovative mHealth business models that could help overcome the barriers of scale and sustainability in the United States health care system

Risk Angles: Five questions about reputational risk

Mon, 12 Mar 2012 18:32:16 +0530

Ask senior executives which risks concern them most and many are likely to place "reputational risk" near the top of the list. That’s because reputational risk is a meta-risk, reflecting the combined impacts of many other types of risks, ranging from supply chain to cybersecurity and beyond. While some organizations address reputational risk primarily by focusing on managing its component parts, we see increasing examples of organizations tackling this risk more holistically.

In this Risk Angle, we take a few minutes with Jonathan Copulsky, author of the recent book Brand Resilience: Managing Risk and Recovery in a High-Speed World, to get his take on managing reputational risk.

Supervisory care: Key costs, trends and strategic implications

Thu, 1 Mar 2012 14:13:29 +0530

As the U.S. population ages and individuals face financial hardships, demand for supervisory care - unpaid care at home provided by a family member or friend - is expected to soar. This Issue Brief examines supervisory care’s current and potential impacts on the U.S. health system.

Get growing

Thu, 1 Mar 2012 14:07:04 +0530

With limited opportunities to grow organically due to the struggling economy, executives continue to look toward mergers and acquisitions (M&A) and nontraditional strategies to extend their growth potential. Explore our latest insights to learn more.

The CIO’s role in business innovation: Sustain or disrupt?

Thu, 1 Mar 2012 13:59:58 +0530

We’re at an unusual time in industry: five major forces affecting businesses are all technology-based. These forces - mobility, analytics, social, cloud computing and cyber intelligence - are being combined in new ways, opening the door for sustaining innovations that can improve productivity and drive down costs. These forces can also be used to disrupt "business as usual" to create totally new ways of generating value.

Administrative Simplification: From compliance to competitive advantage

Thu, 1 Mar 2012 13:59:17 +0530

Administrative Simplification is intended to streamline administrative interactions between health plans and providers to improve the patient experience and reduce costs throughout the health care system.

What’s next? Perspectives of health technology officers

Thu, 1 Mar 2012 13:58:18 +0530

Deloitte interviewed health system chief information officers (CIOs), chief medical information officers (CMIOs) and other informatics leaders from hospitals and health systems on their activities and attitudes about IT and data management. Findings indicate they are cautiously optimistic about successful implementation of their IT strategies; however, questions and concerns remain.

Engaging health care consumers through information technologies

Thu, 1 Mar 2012 13:57:36 +0530

Effective use of information technologies represents both an unmet need and an opportunity for the health care system to better engage consumers. This Issue Brief shares findings from Deloitte’s 2011 Survey of Health Care Consumers, examining consumer interest in and use of health care IT.

Physician perspectives about health information technology

Thu, 1 Mar 2012 13:56:54 +0530

This survey of physicians assesses their current use and overall views of HIT, as well as actions around electronic health records, meaningful use and ICD-10. Physicians believe in the value of HIT to improve quality and safety, however, the cost of HIT remains a major concern.

Three keys to M&A effectiveness for aerospace and defense executives

Thu, 1 Mar 2012 13:55:53 +0530

This paper leverages findings from a Deloitte study of the relationship between A&D companies’ M&A strategies and their financial performance to identify three characteristics companies that outperformed the sector generally shared and under performers did not. These three keys can assist industry leaders as they prepare their companies to take full advantage of potential M&A opportunities.

Delivering value through risk and regulatory analytics

Thu, 1 Mar 2012 13:54:29 +0530

Companies are seeking greater transparency, deeper insights and more reliable predictors to manage risk, meet regulatory requirements and gain a competitive edge.

Top 10 issues for insurance M&A in 2012

Mon, 27 Feb 2012 21:55:55 +0530

This paper discusses the potential impact of issues such as economic and regulatory uncertainty, valuations, alternative use of capital and emerging markets. It also examines factors that could trigger increased M&A activity in the next 12 months, and explains how insurers should prepare by developing a strategy comprising three elements: business portfolio optimization to enhance existing assets, inorganic growth analysis to improve market position and M&A process excellence to embed M&A process knowledge.

Using analytics to help gain a competitive edge in manufacturing

Mon, 27 Feb 2012 21:54:22 +0530

New advancements in analytics can provide not only reports on past and present operations, but also help forecast the future - giving progressive manufacturers the competitive edge.

Emerging technologies: Explore our latest resources

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 14:31:14 +0530

The convergence of digital forces such as analytics, mobility, social and cloud is transforming business, offering a new set of tools and opening the door to a new set of rules for operations, performance and competition. This is an opportunity for information technology (IT) to truly help elevate business performance. What opportunities can new technologies - and their intersections - unlock for your enterprise?

Deloitte announces salesforce.com global alliance

Sun, 12 Feb 2012 14:41:22 +0530

Deloitte is entering into a global alliance with salesforce.com, the enterprise cloud computing company, to provide multinational and international companies with the software, mobile and open cloud computing technologies for the social enterprise.

Smarter phones, smarter shoppers and strategies for a new consumer perspective

Sun, 12 Feb 2012 14:40:14 +0530

Never in the history of commerce has it been possible to acquire as much data or participate so extensively in the process of connecting with consumers. Consumer product companies that systematically fine-tune these connections as well as their marketing strategies can be well positioned with regard to creating mobile-enabled paths in sync with evolving consumer needs.

Sustainability 2.0: Using sustainability to drive business innovation and growth

Sun, 12 Feb 2012 14:39:23 +0530

Leading organizations are taking a hard look inside their operations and across their supply chains, assessing where they are, prioritizing initiatives, and then formulating a broad sustainability strategy to foster product and process innovation to achieve their goals. They are also adopting metrics that more accurately measure their progress and improve their image in the marketplace. Companies that achieve this vision have the opportunity to enhance revenue and brand value, engage effectively with key stakeholders, manage risk and reduce costs.

Integrated reporting: The new big picture

Sun, 12 Feb 2012 14:38:32 +0530

At first blush integrated reporting may sound like a topic solely for accountants, but according to the International Integrated Reporting Committee, it aims to incorporate everything from strategy to risk management, from financial reporting to the inclusion of other capitals (think societal and environmental impacts). Everyone in an organization is likely to be touched by integrated reporting.

Making the most of your marketing DNA

Sun, 12 Feb 2012 14:37:47 +0530

Most marketing organizations execute the same basic activities. But not all great marketing organizations make identical choices. Learn more in this Deloitte Review article by Simon McLain and Jonathan Copulsky.

Is your corporate footprint stuck in the mud?

Sun, 12 Feb 2012 14:37:02 +0530

Many organizations recognize that geography is a key driver of corporate performance. Yet many maintain ineffective and inefficient footprints that can hamper talent attraction and retention, increase operating costs, overexpose them to risk and depress shareholder value. Why do companies leave value on the table by suboptimizing their geographic deployment, and how can they better capture that benefit?

The talent paradox: Critical skills, recession and the illusion of plenitude

Sun, 12 Feb 2012 14:36:15 +0530

While there is a surplus of job seekers, some companies are facing shortages in critical areas where they most need to attract and keep highly skilled talent. In other words, high unemployment rates do not mean that the talent you need will be there when you need it.

Headwinds, tailwinds and the riddles of demographics

Sun, 12 Feb 2012 14:35:29 +0530

Demographics may be destiny, but they don’t have to be doomsday. An ounce of demographic foresight can yield insights as to where a company’s customers and its workforce will likely live. Knowing the future whereabouts of its workforce and its customer base can help a company decide where to establish factories, offices and headquarters. Multinational companies can use shifting populations to their advantage by allowing abundance in one location to offset scarcity in another.

To thine own self be true: Sustaining superior performance

Sun, 12 Feb 2012 14:34:39 +0530

When and how a company must change in order to sustain superior performance is an evergreen topic of the art and science of management. And like just about every other question of substance, actionable truth is often lost in a vast wasteland of vacuous aphorisms.

At the court of King Henry: A conversation with Henry Chesbrough

Sun, 12 Feb 2012 14:33:42 +0530

This Deloitte Review article discusses all things Open Innovation and the challenges of sustaining the Open Business.

The mobile elite: Meeting the growth challenge in the 4G era

Sun, 12 Feb 2012 18:52:36 +0530

Mobility is everywhere. But with this growing ubiquity comes a set of unique challenges for companies riding the wireless wave of opportunity. Throw the impending arrival of the broadband 4G era into the mix and uncertainty levels are set to spike as the scramble for competitive advantage reaches fever pitch.

A delicate balance: Organizational barriers to evidence-based management

Sun, 12 Feb 2012 18:50:04 +0530

Data analysis is only part of an "analytics" project; and ironically it often isn’t the hardest part. It is not uncommon for sophisticated technical work to end up on the cutting room floor - resulting in unrealized value - for reasons having more to do with human and organizational behavior than the finer points of data quality or statistical methodology.

Is leadership’s primary role to mitigate risks or capitalize on opportunities?

Sun, 12 Feb 2012 18:48:18 +0530

You’ve probably heard that many, if not most, M&A deals sap shareholder value. It’s no wonder leaders approach a transaction with a wary eye - even when it holds the potential to open the door to new markets, fill gaps and improve operational capability. Would leaders shift the odds in their favor by focusing on mitigating the risks? Or by rallying others around new opportunities?

Tech Trends 2012

Thu, 2 Feb 2012 14:27:03 +0530

Available now. Deloitte’s annual Technology Trends report examines technology put to practical business use. This year’s theme, "Elevate IT for digital business," examines the broad impacts of five technology forces that have influenced our reports over the past several years - analytics, mobility, social, cloud and cyber security. Our 2012 trends are grouped into two categories:

Disruptors are technologies that can create sustainable positive disruption in IT capabilities, business operations and sometimes even business models.
Enablers are technologies in which many CIOs have already invested time and effort, but which warrant another look this year because of new developments. Enablers may be more evolutionary than revolutionary, but the potential is there to elevate the business game with technology.

It’s an uncommon, and perhaps even unique, time to have so many emerging forces - all rapidly evolving, technology-centric and each already impacting business so strongly. Whether or not you have previously thought of your business as inherently digital, the convergence of these forces offers a new set of tools, opening the door to a new set of rules for operations, performance and competition. This is an opportunity for IT to truly help elevate business performance. Each of these 2012 trends is relevant today. Each has significant momentum and potential to make an impact. Each warrants timely consideration. Forward-thinking organizations should consider developing an explicit strategy in each area - even if that strategy is to wait and see. But whatever you do, step up. Use the digital forces to your advantage. Don’t get caught unaware or unprepared.

Deconstruct your data

Thu, 2 Feb 2012 14:25:41 +0530

Explore our latest resources to learn how business analytics can deliver uncommon insights and breakout value.

When crafting corporate strategy, should social business be bolted on or baked in?

Thu, 2 Feb 2012 14:23:50 +0530

Many companies recognize that social business offers new tools and rules for competing in the marketplace. But should social strategy be integrated into the overall corporate strategy? Or should it stand alone?

Mining for insight

Thu, 2 Feb 2012 14:21:40 +0530

Pricing analytics can help companies better examine their customers, products and marketplace dynamics to help improve their growth and profitability.