Many utilities lack the depth of data needed to implement more cost-effective asset-management systems like condition-based monitoring and maintenance methods, which utilities in Europe and Asia are adopting to enhance the efficient use of capital and reduce operations and maintenance costs.

FORBES: Dark Grid: Electric Utilities Scramble to Get Smart

This may mean that you use low-cost Web-based services to provide order taking, accounting, e-mail services, database management, or a hundred other functions that are central to the operation of your business.

FORBES: Extreme Outsourcing

Such a decision would be based on an extensive cost-benefit analysis that would need to satisfy members of VW Group's board of management.

BBC: Bentley considers assembling new model outside the UK

What matters in successful portfolio management is deciding upon a sensible allocation based on your needs, filling those allocations with low-cost investments such as index funds and ETFs, and then staying the course through all market conditions.

FORBES: Agonizing Over Optimal