In a recent political cartoon for the Dayton Daily News, Mike Peters has drawn caricatures of Senators McCain and Obama giving themselves a personal thumbs up. McCain's character claims, "I said 'change' 10 times today. To which Obama counters, "I said 'change' 20 times today."

Certainly, if we had to pick one word to describe the political platform this election, it would be "change." Out with the old and in with the new. Isn't it funny that so many of us complain about change, or drag our feet if pushed to make a change, but in today's economy we are begging for it?

As the candidates have clearly stated, change is necessary for a better America. Wouldn't the same hold true for your own facility? When was the last time you made a change for the better at your site or within your operations?

Change can come in many forms and need not be as monumental as trying to flip the world right side up. Even the candidates have fessed up that it will take millions of baby steps and continuous education to float this sinking economy, from turning off lights to keeping car tires properly inflated as a means of reducing energy consumption.

Consider other changes as a positive makeover for your facility, from perfecting your professionalism on phonecalls, improving the landscape and curb appeal of your site, cleaning out the office clutter, or gravitating to a more sophisticated software accounting program.

Change will always cost something, but without it, everything takes a toll. In the words of singer-songwriter Sheryl Crow, "A change would do you good." It will do your business good, too. Change your attitude, your image and your future, and you'll likely earn earn a vote of confidence with consumers.