There is an old joke that starts out, “I’ve got good news and bad news.” While there is nothing funny about this past year, there certainly is plenty of good news and  bad news. 

On the positive side, many concerns have moderated as firms have found innovative new ways to cope with the “new normal.” And more than a few firms have thrived as never before. 

But at the same time, the battle for top talent has intensified and marketing budgets remain at historically high levels as firms try to transition to a digitally driven marketplace.