Planning horizons should also include global opportunities. The right community for an operation depends on the project s specific function and requirements. A high-tech firm needs to have a presence in communities most closely aligned with its vision, strategy, and culture. Organizations with successful operations need to compare the future goals of the facility with the characteristics of the current community to ensure that the positive operating condition is sustainable. It is important to understand the potential ramifications of becoming one of the largest or most visible employers within a community.
Issues can range from increased employment risk to local political meddling in corporate decisions.
In addition, the growth of an operation within a community requires an assessment of how the organization s resources are aligned and distributed. Answers to these questions will impact the real estate strategy, operations, and organizational culture. The goal is to insure that the organization positions itself to benefit from its alignment within the community. Cisco Systems is developing megacampus facilities, known as Cisco Cities, that will serve as strategic clusters. The latest Cisco City, located in South San Jose, may eventually employ 20,000 people.