Like it or not - and often we don't - power is a pervasive phenomenon. From midnight decisions in the Oval Office that risk the lives of young Americans to quarrels over the kitchen table, power is part of every human equation. Yes, it can be - and often is - abused, in business as in all arenas of endeavor. But it can also be used to do great good for great numbers. And as a career-building tool, the slow and steady (and subtle) amassing of power is the surest road to success.

For the blue-collar worker, the driving force behind change was factory automation using programmable machine tools. For the office worker, it's office automation using computer technology: enterprise-resource-planning systems, groupware, intranets, extranets, expert systems, the Web, and e-commerce.

South Africa has all the tools to compete in the new global village - an eager workforce, ready to take on any challenge.

If future competitiveness depends on treating people as an important part of the institution, the least respectful thing I can imagine doing to a human being is asking him to urinate in a cup.

The top athletes are consummate pros who work obsessively at their craft. Approach yours the same way.

Vision is dandy, but sustainable company excellence comes from a huge stable of able managers.

The magic formula that successful businesses have discovered is to treat customers like guests and employees like people.