It’s been quite the autumn of discontent, what with occupiers occupying, storms stampeding, markets making like pogo sticks, and an all-out blitz of Tebow trouncing. Ah, the economy…did your latest 401(k) statement have you reaching for your favorite potent potable?

Given what seems like a constant stream of conflicting economic news, it’s not surprising that some organizations remain in a hunkered-down, wait-it-out mentality. Being cost-conscious—by scrutinizing purchase requests and paring budgets to essential spending—is the fiscally responsible way to operate these days. It begs the question, though: What is “essential spending”? Continue reading →