Later today, Apple holds a press conference in San Fransisco where, we are let to believe, they will announce the much anticipated ‘tablet’ device that will extend the user experience domination started by the iPhone.

If nothing else, Apple ought to be congratulated for keeping a lid on the specifics about this device. Corporate secrets are notoriously difficult to maintain because human beings are involved.

People like to talk and even better they like to tell others ‘juicy gossip.’ Doing so serves to elevate the secret teller to a position of power and implies inside knowledge. Paradoxically if discovered it may also lead to that persons corporate demise too.

Competitive advantage is increasingly difficult to achieve and even more difficult to maintain.

Cynics may say the hype is all part of Steve Job’s master PR campaign, either way we’ll find out later.

-
-

Unless the economic landscape changes rapidly they are likely to be disappointed when it comes to securing a real ‘graduate job’ at the end of their course.

First some context parameters; what constitutes a graduate job?
1) One which by a quirk of supply over demand employs people who happen to hold a degree?
Alternatively is it
2) A position, for which, a degree is a pre-requisit?

Last year 408,000* undergraduate places were available, in 2009 this number is likely to increase. Graduates will probably find an excess of supply over demand in the coming years. As the motor industry has found to its cost, keep producing when the market isn’t buying equals a glut of unsold stock.

There is a glimmer of hope though, its never been easier to start a business. Technological advances mean tasks once considered complex and expensive, can be completed for a fraction of the cost. Think what an average personal computer or smart phone can achieve. The consumer market is increasingly sophisticated, creating demand for personalised products and services. It needn’t be the case of invention, innovating something that already exists is an excellent way to earn a living and take control of the economic future.

*Fifty thousand students expected to loose out on university places, July 10th 2009 The Times, Joanne Sugden

In an unusual display of cooperation the major cellphone manufacturers have reached agreement on a standard charger interface.

This is great news for customers; it means we can charge our mobiles without the need for brand or model specific devices.

A sensible and rare example of competitor co-operation. Let’s keep this momentum going!