We believe, subject to confirmation through the research, that services will become more important as firms seek to differentiate themselves from the competition through specialization and proprietary offerings.  It is the unique value of specialized services that will enable firms in the developed world to command a price premium over lower cost, often Asian suppliers.  This value is a mix of supplier know-how, accumulated knowledge, the intervention of skilled experts, and the co-created value of the customer.  Services will be increasingly IT-based or enabled.

Further information
If you would like to understand this topic further and its implications for your organization, contact your Account Representative.