In companies that are slated to be shut down, productivity increases during the phase-out period itself. When management is busy dealing with matters other than daily operations, employees shoulder a greater responsibility for their work­-and efficiency is enhanced. According to business economist Magnus Hansson at Цrebro University in Sweden, this shows that it is possible to boost productivity considerably without investing.

Ford Motor Company President and Chief Executive Officer Alan Mulally today announced changes to his senior leadership team with the elevation of two key executives and the retirement of another.

Siemens is establishing a new Managing Board position for legal and compliance matters, effective October 1, 2007. A Managing Board proposal to this effect was approved by the Supervisory Board at its meeting today.

Nissan today announced that Alain Dassas will join the company as its new Chief Financial Officer. Effective September 17th, 2007 Dassas will lead the Finance function of the company including financial strategy, treasury, tax, and capital markets, sales financing operations and communications with investors and shareholders.

Sony Ericsson Mobile Communications today announces that Miles Flint has decided to step down from his position as President of Sony Ericsson.

Panasonic System Solutions Company (PSSA), a leader in professional video surveillance and medical vision systems, announces the appointment of James DeStefano as Director of Sales for their Security Systems and Vision Systems Groups.

Openwave Systems Inc. the leading independent provider of software products and services for the communications industry, today announced the appointments of John Boden to senior vice president of product management and Michael Wallis-Brown to general manager for the Asia-Pacific region.

Tollgrade Communications, Inc., a leading supplier of network service assurance products for the cable and telecom industries, announced today that Joseph Ferrara, a former Ericsson and Marconi executive, has joined the company as Senior Vice President of Marketing and Sales.

Nortel Networks Corporation today announced the departure of Dion Joannou, President North America, effective August 31, 2007. Joannou leaves Nortel to pursue other personal interests.

On May 23rd, The Securities and Exchange Commission unanimously approved interpretive guidance to help public companies strengthen their internal control over financial reporting while reducing unnecessary costs, particularly at smaller companies.