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Located at the University of Michigan, we are an independent, non-profit research and educational organization guided by our founding principle that thriving businesses drive economic development and improve social welfare in low- and middle-income countries.

Consulting

With deep expertise across multiple industry sectors and disciplines, we partner with profit-seeking firms and nonprofits to develop and apply proven business practices.

Training

Harnessing the latest innovations in education, we provide world-class management training opportunities for the global leaders of today and tomorrow.

Margaret Huebner: Building the
Human Resources Function at Oman’s Port of Salalah

In recognition of International Women's Day on March 8th, our case of the month is about an American woman who restructured the human resources department at a global shipping port in the Middle East. The fact that Margaret Huebner was female added more complexity to her assignment. But, she found a way to navigate the cultural differences and accomplish her task. There are many lessons to learn from this case, especially for women entrepreneurs and women in business.

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Case Publishing

About Us

Consulting

With deep expertise across multiple industry sectors and disciplines, we partner with profit-seeking firms and nonprofits to develop and apply proven business practices.

Training

Harnessing the latest innovations in education, we provide world-class management training opportunities for the global leaders of today and tomorrow.

“Automakers desperately need new workers — with new skills — to build electric cars”

Business Insider reports that automotive companies need to pivot quickly to electric vehicle production. Our Diana Páez is helping to identify the challenges and opportunities along the way, with a focus on Mexico and other LMICs.

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Business Insider

About Us

Consulting

With deep expertise across multiple industry sectors and disciplines, we partner with profit-seeking firms and nonprofits to develop and apply proven business practices.

Training

Harnessing the latest innovations in education, we provide world-class management training opportunities for the global leaders of today and tomorrow.

Insights 21–22

As we celebrate our 30th anniversary, we are proud to highlight how WDI is Solving for Business with our partners in our annual Insights report.

News & Views

WDI, State of Chihuahua Release Strategic ‘Roadmap’ for E-Mobility
WDI, State of Chihuahua Release Strategic ‘Roadmap’ for E-Mobility
Thursday, March 16, 2023
The William Davidson Institute has released a new report, developed alongside Chihuahua’s Secretaría de Innovación y Desarrollo Económico, that delves into opportunities in the electric vehicle value chain and the key elements of the emerging global e-mobility ecosystem. Additionally, the roadmap identifies the necessary stakeholders, and the most effective strategies to prepare for the e-mobility transition and the impact on Chihuahua and greater North America.
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Perspective: Making the e-mobility transition a global one
Perspective: Making the e-mobility transition a global one
Tuesday, March 7, 2023
Around the globe, we are witnessing actions from government, industry, academia and other players whose roles are crucial in enabling the transition to e-mobility. Our research is investigating the challenges and opportunities of this global shift in LMICs.
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Practical Lessons, Powerful Connections: Workshops Aid Ukrainian Refugees
Practical Lessons, Powerful Connections: Workshops Aid Ukrainian Refugees
Wednesday, January 18, 2023
Russia's war in Ukraine has pressed NGOs to the limit. In partnership with the Weiser Center at the University of Michigan, WDI offered the NGO Leadership Workshop in Poland in late 2022. At the time, WDI shifted its curriculum to meet the needs of the many NGOs in the area serving Ukrainian refugees.
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Energy-Focused Business Education: WDI Opens a New Case Study Contest
Energy-Focused Business Education: WDI Opens a New Case Study Contest
Tuesday, December 6, 2022
William Davidson Institute at the University of Michigan has launched the Energy Innovation in Low- and Middle-Income Countries Global Case Writing Competition. Administered by WDI Publishing, this new contest is seeking innovative and expert business case studies that advance solutions to energy scarcity and sustainability. The first-place winner will receive $3,000, second-place $2,000, and third-place $1,000.
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Margaret Huebner: Building the Human Resources Function at Oman’s Port of Salalah

About Us

Consulting

Training

“Automakers desperately need new workers — with new skills — to build electric cars​”

About Us

Consulting

Training

Insights 21–22

News & Views

WDI, State of Chihuahua Release Strategic ‘Roadmap’ for E-Mobility

Perspective: Making the e-mobility transition a global one

Practical Lessons, Powerful Connections: Workshops Aid Ukrainian Refugees

Energy-Focused Business Education: WDI Opens a New Case Study Contest

Stay Informed

Margaret Huebner: Building the
Human Resources Function at Oman’s Port of Salalah

“Automakers desperately need new workers — with new skills — to build electric cars”