The study which is called "an economy doing half its job" said that while large American companies were showing signs of recovery and were maintaining their competitive edge on the world stage, many middle and working class US citizens were struggling, as were small businesses.
Comment: For some perspective on just how difficult the daily struggle is for most Americans, see:
US poverty Levels: 49.7 million are poor, and 80% of the total population is near poverty
The new survey was designed by the Harvard Business School (HBS) and is the latest in a series of surveys on their US Competiveness Project. Every year HBS asks alumni worldwide to share their views about the state and future of the US business environment and US competiveness. In addition to this, the 2013-2014 survey also focused on three key areas: competitiveness, education, workforce skills and transportation infrastructure.
On balance respondents were pessimistic about the trajectory of US competitiveness. 47 percent saw a decline in the next few years, while just 33 percent thought things would improve.But respondents were less negative than in past surveys. For example, in 2011, 71 percent thought US competitiveness would deteriorate.
Jan W Rivkin, co-chair of the project, said the findings of the 2013-14 survey showed that while firms might be looking healthier citizens were likely to be struggling more and more.
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