So who is looking for a new job in this declining economy? If opportunities are a little skimp in your area there is always the booming China to move to. It looks like China is going to put some thought into their designs rather than do blantent copies of what works elsewhere. One benefit of working there, it is probably easier to keep to your cost target.

Officials in China push for an increase in innovation,
and a shift beyond manufacturing to product design

China’s stunning economic growth in recent years has been based on its ability to efficiently manufacture key products desired by consumers worldwide.
The next step in economic development for the nation may be an expansion into the world of product design.
A recent exhibit at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London, United Kingdom reflected China’s push to go from factory-floor production, to developing and designing products.
In 2006, government officials in China said the future of the economy depended on innovation. Between 2003 and 2006, China spent 1.5 percent of its GDP (gross domestic product) on research and development – a huge increase from previous years.
Approximately 500 schools offering design courses have been established across China, but there is a shortage of design teachers. (Associated Press)