The good news: Prices are falling slightly. The bad news: Contrary to optimistic early reports, that doesnt mean that everyones costs are falling.

Theres a major opportunity for productivity and employee engagement, but according to new research from Oxford Economics, most companies are unprepared to capitalize on it.

"There are too many people on the bench who want to get into the workforce, and who want to get back into the workforce," says Labor Secretary Thomas Perez.