Competition called 'Critical' to nation's economy.

• Position: NDIA NEWS

A recent conference sponsored in Washington, D.C., by the Association for Enterprise Integration highlighted the importance of competition.

"It is critical that we keep our nation the most competitive in the world," said Richard M. Russell, associate director of the president's office of science and technology policy. This requires an "innovation ecosystem," he told the conferees.

"The components are not surprising--investment in research and development, along with policies that encourage private sector R&D," Russell said. "Competitiveness also depends upon a kindergarten through 12th grade educational system, universities that are home to world-class learning and research, skilled U.S. workers; the ability to attract and retain talented and skilled individuals from...