We used to believe that it comes from growing older, but even the young believe that 2003 went by faster than any other year. Maybe believing that 2003 went by quickly was really wishful thinking. We're all sure now that the economy has begun to re-start, so that generally 2004 is going to be better than 2003. Even manufacturing seems to be rebounding, but does that equate to a better year for print?

Reinforced by both industry and global economists, we're also feeling confident that the New Year will also bring print growth. Why, mostly because history tells us that print should be helped through the triple benefits of a growing economy coupled with an Olympic year and the U.S. Presidential elections. We're told that it might not grow as fast as the GDP, and that some segments will grow while others continue to decline. Still, those who are poised to take advantage of the opportunities should do well. One way to ensure success is to have the ability to react to what actually happens during the year. One impediment to the ability to react is the annual budget!

At The EAGLE, both as industry watchers and as consultants, the end of the old year and the beginning of the new one reminds us that most businesses, including those in the print and digital imaging markets, runs by annual budgets. Many of you probably spent the last few months on 2003 trying to make the year end positively, however you were probably also encumbered by two conflicting major tasks: