FocusZenith: The New Concept in Space Business

Within the space sector and supporting infrastructure, vast levels of experience, knowledge and ideas are wasted, due to the lack of opportunities to pursue and develop them. Graduates from academia often outweigh the number of new positions available, whilst staff in existing employment are being downsized. This has largely been caused by governmental cut backs to space programmes or through private companies already having maximum headcount. Another example of an under-utilised resource is the numerous entrepreneurs and innovators, who are unable to compete on their own against the larger, already established, private companies. This barrier to enter the space sector market deters investment and investors from being tied up in a high risk, long term return venture. In this case of demand (for employment) outweighing supply (of available opportunities), a new concept is required to bridge this gap and attempt to fully utilise all individuals and their knowledge. FocusZenith is a newly formed, independent organisation, based in the United Kingdom. It is the objective of the organisation: (1) to research and develop issues affecting the space sector, (2) to promote new interest in space, science and technology, by being a point of contact for educational purposes, (3) to act as a focal point for centralising independent efforts, (4) to provide employment and co-operative opportunities between the company and other individuals and organisations, and (5) to act as a "one-stop-shop" for business and marketing matters. It is planned for FocusZenith to expand and cement ties with both governmental organisations and others in the private sector, thus creating a network of individuals, small independent companies and entrepreneurs. The creation of strategic alliances with these various bodies will allow each to utilise their skills or develop their own ideas and have the necessary knowledge at hand to make this possible. Also, enlisting the expertise of member groups on specific projects will allow easier market entry and increase the market share potential for all involved. This network will serve a second purpose, as it can be implemented when completing research on behalf of other organisations. However, legislative constraints regarding issues such as transfer of technology and data protection, will need to be addressed, both within the strategic alliance and when working for other organisations Internally, the implementation of a "Code of Conduct and Courtesy" will alleviate many areas of concern. The full potential of FocusZenith and supportive strategic alliances will only be truly realised as more and more visionaries participate in this advancement in space business. Closer working of individuals and small organisations in one collective venture will allow more opportunity for growth and development to occur through mutually beneficial co-operation.