One might choose any number of places to build a business these days. After all, Thomas Friedman has gone to great detail explaining the new “flatter world.” The barriers provided by the former foes of distance and time have been all but erased by technology and vision. So, the fact is, business can be effectively conducted, for many industries, almost anywhere in the world. Before choosing Daftar 4D a business location one should take a moment to investigate the STEEP driving forces that can cultivate or destroy the best laid plans of the most ingenious business leaders. Coming on as the tiger of the East, Singapore is building an economic powerhouse capable of providing the most fertile environment for business. It is by looking at the STEEP driving forces that one will easily recognize the advantages of business in Singapore.
Social Climate
Singapore offers a tremendous diversity for business. In Singapore one may be surprised by the intermingling of immigrants; Chinese, Malay, Indian, and European people melding into a homogenous group while maintaining some unique ties to their original culture. Identities “still remain although the bulk of Singaporeans do think of themselves as Singaporeans, regardless of race or culture. Each still bears its own unique character” (Singapore Expats, 2007). This diversity provides business a valuable resource for innovation and growth. English is widely spoken in Singapore however a more common language is “Singlish” which combines native languages with English.
Widely spoken and understood English is the primary language of business. Mandarin and Cantonese are also spoken widely. There are four major religious groups in Singapore. The most widely observed are Buddhism, Taoism, Christianity and Islam as well as a variety of lesser known faiths. Interestingly, these groups interact in a positive and interconnected way. As the groups observe their different religious festivals and holidays, the community frequently participates in the celebrations. Singapore offers much more than a diverse, yet well blended workforce.
Technical Horizons
Recognized as both a regional and world technological Mecca, Singapore has well established aerospace, electronics and telecommunications concerns. Fully connected to a reliable internet hub, Singapore is able to provide unrestricted high speed internet access. Google’s proposed trans-Pacific cable promises to further expand bandwidth and lower prices. Tremendous gains may be made by marrying the entrepreneurial spirit with the abundant supply of technological resources of Singapore. The workforce is well educated and ready for the right opportunity. With any highly sophisticated economy, technology is the nerve center and Singapore is not short on nerve. With a complex banking and stock market system in place, Singapore competes with any place on Earth. With a 92.8% literacy rate there is a sizeable and increasingly educated labor pool available for high-tech jobs. While maintaining a technical focus the Singaporean people do not ignore environmental concerns.
Environmental
With the scarcity of natural resources, Singapore administrates its natural resources with the wisdom of Solomon. With ports and airports that are among the busiest in the world, Singapore manages to protect the natural resources. In accordance with the “Green Plan” 5% of land is set aside for conservation. According to Alan Tan of the University of Singapore, Singapore is one of the Greenest cities in the world (Tan, 1998).
Perhaps the most difficult challenge for the people of Singapore and their leadership is administering the relatively small land area. This creates challenges for housing, farming, and manufacturing. Singapore’s leaders are challenged to make changes today that will handle the demands of the future.
Approximately 80% of the population lives in public housing. These apartments and flats are generally under 1,000 SF and offer the amenities of a small home. Others may opt for a private home or condominium which generally offers more spacious accommodations.
Singapore has an extensive and thorough public transportation system. In fact, for most, a car is unnecessary. The Changi airport is award winning and is among the cleanest and best connected in the region. Because of the strong enforcement of laws in Singapore, the country is well positioned to save itself from major environmental concerns. This higher environmental thinking aids not only Singaporeans but the region in general.