Partnering with the Germans. (Global Business Monitor).

WHAT'S MORE IMPORTANT FOR BUSInesses when expanding internationally--low costs or deep talent and infrastructure? Germany, the world's third-largest economy, is making the case that its depth of talent in semiconductors, manufacturing, communications, and other technology is worth more to potential business partners than lower wages in other locations.

Martin Klender, national practice leader of Deloitte & Touche Fantus Consulting, reports that his organization conducted a survey in 2001 to learn about companies' selections of new locations. It found that nearly 80 per