Use of English - Multiple Choice

Innovation in Hard Times

Economic crises are usually associated with shrinking budgets, rising unemployment and widespread uncertainty. Yet history suggests that difficult periods can also act as a powerful (0) CATALYST for innovation. When resources are limited, companies are often forced to (1) .......... up with new ways of producing goods, delivering services and reaching customers. In prosperous times, inefficient systems may survive simply because there is enough money to cover their weaknesses. During a downturn, however, such weaknesses are quickly (2) .......... and businesses must adapt or disappear. Crises also tend to change consumer behaviour. People become more cautious with money and start looking for products that offer genuine value, which in (3) .......... encourages firms to rethink what they provide. In some cases, this leads not merely to minor improvements but to a complete (4) .......... in strategy. At the same time, governments facing economic pressure may invest in sectors that promise long-term growth, hoping to (5) .......... the foundations for recovery. Of course, not every crisis produces useful ideas. Some organisations simply cut costs and lose sight of the bigger picture. But those that manage to innovate under pressure often emerge in a stronger (6) .......... than before. Their success can then (7) .......... as proof that necessity still drives invention, and that periods of hardship may, under the right conditions, give (8) .......... to remarkable progress.