Foreword
Firm Foundations - A Study of New Zealand Business Practices and Performance is the major output of the Business Practices and Performance Survey that was undertaken in 2001. The study has been designed by the Ministry of Economic Development, in association with other government departments and academics, to comprehensively gauge the nature and capabilities of New Zealand businesses. It also seeks to identify the key issues that need to be addressed so that these capabilities can be further developed in the future.
The study is one of the most extensive studies of New Zealand business practices ever to be produced, and emphasises our commitment to improving the research base upon which we develop and implement programmes designed to improve business foundations and promote business growth.
This study provides us with a timely insight into the skills, talents and innovative potential of New Zealand firms. These are the key areas that are crucial for improving business performance and, as such, the economy's performance as a whole.
On behalf of the Ministry I would like to express our deep appreciation to the many people who have been involved in the development, preparation, administration and analysis of this study. In particular, those at Statistics New Zealand and the contributing academics who have assisted us in developing this research.
It is also critical to recognise those who have generously provided their time to participate in this study and provided an enormous contribution in terms of the wealth of data we have been able to collect. I would particularly like to thank the 2,756 New Zealand businesses who took the time to fill out the questionnaire on which this study is based, and the 48 firms who allowed us to visit them and discuss these issues in more detail. The information that each business provides is fundamental to our ability to provide informed and effective policy advice.
This study does not provide "the formula for business success". However, we hope that it will be valuable as a tool for benchmarking your business's practices, or for developing a better understanding of the structure and dynamics of the New Zealand business sector. In particular, we hope that from this report you will be further encouraged to continue your efforts towards business improvement.
Geoff Dangerfield,
Chief Executive, Ministry of Economic Development
December 2002
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