Merriam Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary (10th edition) defines “global” as “of, relating to, or involving the entire world.” While that’s not a new term in Central Florida -- the world’s number one vacation destination – residents in this region are just beginning to understand exactly how they are impacted by, and how to prepare for, an increasingly global economy.

Similar to the world’s economy, Central Florida is experiencing a natural evolution to interdependence with disappearing municipal boundaries as business trade, shopping, recreation and entertainment options lure residents and visitors from one end of the region to the other.

Competing in this global marketplace is not only about growth; it’s about a new way of thinking and behaving. Meeting the challenges of the global marketplace is the essence of the myregion.org initiative, a critical analysis of the changes that are occurring in the seven-county region.

Many Central Florida business leaders acknowledge that both large and small companies are experiencing similar challenges as more opportunities for commerce become available regionally, nationally and worldwide.

Experts say the key to Central Florida’s future lies in identifying the region as a whole, its function and how it can be managed effectively for all. The myregion.org program study is intended to develop a common framework or infrastructure and build regional leadership and consensus about the direction of the region.

One of the most important goals of myregion.org is to clarify our strengths and weaknesses relative to other regions and position ourselves most effectively in the world economy, while working to preserve our quality of life.

“The global economy is here and it impacts all of us who live and work within the seven counties that make up the central part of the state,” said Jacob Stuart, president of myregion.org . “It’s critically important that citizens embrace and direct our future way of life.”