Perhaps there is some good

If there is any good that might come form theses economic doldrums, it quite possible could be the notion that complacency is not good a business move.  I've seen far too many companies do nothing rather than explore an opportunity that offers them a savings.  Most businesses are looking to trim expenses...especially now.  Most buyer claim to be looking for savings... especially now.  And yet,  I must sadly report that the majority do nothing.  Why?  That's the great mystery.  Is it really better do nothing to sit on your hands and maintain business as usual?  I can confidently say that given these pathetic economic times we're forced to endure, those companies that fail to adapt will ultimately fail or become a shell of their former self.  Now is the time to look for cost effective expansion opportunities.  That's right expansion.  Given the available technologies it may not necessarily require additional hires but many justify maintaining existing personnel.

Operating from a position of fear is the exact opposite of what your business should be doing.  It's counter productive and retards growth opportunities.  Vendor relationships should be reevaluated as business as usual has certainly become unusual.  In our industry we have seen many what was once iron clad "agreements" with Office Depot and Staples dissolve and come our way.  Why?  Price in part.  But our flexibility and quick response has been a major factor as well.

The point of my ramble is to encourage the discouraged workers out there to avoid the complacency trap.  make your self an asset to your company by offering new suggestion, new methods, and even new products.    Sure I want one of your suggestions to be about office supplies and in particular OfficeBundle.com, but in light of that, find your own cause and increase your value.  Sitting still is a death sentence for both you and your company.