Contingency Plan

News about Detroit this week:

"Redwings Win Stanley Cup"

"Ford, General Motors improve in quality survey"

"Ford to cut salaried-worker costs 15 percent by Aug 1"

You may or may not know but I work for the Ford Motor Company. The largest family run business in the United States. I program the computers that control the engines on the hybrid cars....at least I do for now. This recent announcement stated that up to 15% of salaried workers at the Blue Oval could be let go involuntarily by August 1.

Details included that the cuts were to be made to the 'low performers' and 'low seniority'. While I'm a pretty decent worker and get reviewed well, I only have 5 years in at the company, much less then anyone else in my section. Could be cause for concern.

I'm also one of the few single/without family people of the group which may weigh in. But I don't mind taking one for the team in that respect.

While FoMoCo quality is now within a negligible amount with it's strong japanese competition, decades of poor quality and low fuel economy have been engraved in American consumers minds.

Surging commodity prices, a truck heavy portfolio, high gas prices and union labor costs have not helped the company stabilize either.

How does this reflect into the house? Well it's driving me into a contingency mode. I must do what it takes to ensure survival of the project.

What that means is I will refocus my efforts to obtaining my certificate of occupancy and to let luxury aspects be pushed aside for now. I'm going to plug the chimney hole in the floor and start eliminating other things that can be done later that will not impact my CoO.

One characteristic of people and organizations that I really admire is the ability to adapt and have quick recovery from obstacles. I hope to enact and refine these skills if needbe.

What is the best aspect of a contingency plan? Not having to ever use it.

Second best? Having a solid one that works.