DETROIT, MI -- Results of a survey on Michigan's economic outlook indicate vast improvement from 2009 and overall improvement from a year ago, but a slight decline in "satisfaction as a place to grow a business" from 2012.

The study, conducted by the Baker Strategy Group, surveyed business, nonprofit and public-sector respondents in November and December 2013.

"We have significant improvements in our direction and recognition of the serious economic issues faced by the state," said Margaret Baker, who has been overseeing the annual study for six years.

"However, as with any study of this broad scope, we note that there are many areas for improvement and action by statewide groups as well as regional and local groups like chambers of commerce, universities, governments groups and others who must collaborate to march Michigan forward."

Respondents who called Michigan a business-friendly state grew to 65 percent from 25 percent in 2009. And those who said they would recommend Michigan as a place to do business grew to 79 percent from 31 percent in 2009.

While the numbers showed vast improvement compared to 2009, there were some declines in measures of satisfaction compared 2012 showing continuing struggles on regional and local levels.

"The state needs to have realistic information to demonstrate how we are growing economically and the areas that show the best ways to proceed," said Gov. Rick Snyder in a statement.

A panel of experts at a Detroit Economic Club meeting where the results were released Wednesday agreed that improving transportation infrastructure and boosting higher education with a focus on technology are key to further improving Michigan's business environment.

The full study was to be published here.

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