Money. Research and Development. Global Strategy. They're all critical to corporate success. However, many companies, especially those that are truly future-focused, now find that people are the primary competitive advantage.

In our increasingly idea-based economy, corporate success relies on the talents and brainpower of quality employees. What sets companies apart-what really prepares them for the future-is a strong human capital strategy ensuring bench strength both today and tomorrow.

Yet, a recent study by a prominent consulting group found that many companies feel they are "talent constrained." Seventy-five percent of executives surveyed said their companies either don't have enough talent or are chronically short of it; ironically, only 10 to 20 percent said improving their talent pool was one of the company's top three priorities.

Statistics point to a steadily shrinking talent pool, and if history holds true, the economy will continue to expand, and that pool will become even shallower. A severe talent shortage already plagues high-tech companies whose employee demands have skyrocketed: some markets have tens of thousands of unfulfilled jobs. Some experts are sounding the bell, alerting other industries. When 50% of high-tech job offers are turn down and about 30% of high-tech jobs take six months or more to fill, they say that's cause for concern.

Experts recommend turning a critical eye on your company and evaluating whether you have the talent inventory to ensure company growth. Consider these five questions:

• Do you find that good ideas can't be implemented simply because you don't have the talent to implement them?
• Has attracting top talent becomes so problematic that senior positions either go unfilled or you find yourself lowering your standards to accept the talent that's available?
• Do you understand what top candidates look for …beyond the size of their paycheck?
• Does your organization actively discuss strategies to improve and harvest your talent pool?
• Has implementing those strategies become high-priority?

Finding and keeping top employees must be a priority. Maintaining the right talent inventory now is a first step in building a team for future success.