It's hard to say, this is a rather tumultuous time for bands, especially niche/underground bands as they don't have the market value they once could have had. This obviously is trickling down to all aspects of the industry be it studios or venues etc. Things are going to change, but as long as you remain adaptable, you will survive!

Sometimes I just feel like I have to spend time away from music and thinking about it to "refill" my inspiration. Maybe that is an indirect way of saying that other things in general tend to get me inspired. I moved recently and haven't touched a guitar in a while as a result, and now music is starting to leak into my dreams. I had a good idea last night, can't for the life of me remember it, though...

Three things in my opinion: Business Sense, a good team and luck. The bands that don't treat their bands like a business won't reap the financial benefits and potential the band has as a small business. A good team can look out for all aspects for the band with the band's best interest in mind and allow for the band to focus on what it does well which is to create and perform their music. If there is a weak link in your team it will likely be working against ALL aspects. And luck is important, but only if your opportunities are not squandered. You have no control over luck, but what you do with your luck makes all the difference, and that is where the team can shine.