It's a point that too many cost-conscious companies seem willing to overlook.

This time the Defense Department wants cost-conscious companies to produce a utilitarian design and come up with an economical manufacturing plan.

After a surge of sales in the 1970's, especially to prosperous oil companies, the corporate jet business nose-dived, as cost-conscious companies turned to used models.

Another factor, of course, is the consolidation of power in the entertainment industry among a few big cost-conscious companies.

The otherwise cost-conscious company spent millions to spy on employees and critics.

The economic slowdown could provide an incentive for cost-conscious companies to move there.

Jobs don't just materialize at cost-conscious companies to absorb all the qualified people who want them.

"Aon is a very cost-conscious company," said one executive who worked with Aon.

Specialists say the job market has become dynamic here as cost-conscious companies end job guarantees.

Other cost-conscious companies are turning to incentive plans that let their employees benefit during the fat years, but not the lean ones.