Steven Deller

Income inequality has been rising since the 1980s, both in Wisconsin and nationally, and economists and policymakers have become increasingly aware of and concerned about this trend.

Economic growth and development hinge on how firms conduct business. Companies striving to maximize profits can compete in two ways: They can minimize their operating costs or they can innovate, develop new products and increase their market share. In practice, many firms mix these options by focusing on innovation while keeping an eye on costs.