Yamaha Business Strategy Analysis Research Paper

Yamaha Business Strategy Analysis - Research Paper Example When looking at the company of Yamaha, it can be seen that there are specific components which drive the business forward as a whole. However, the units of musical instruments and vehicle engines each have specific qualities that provide a different level of growth within the company. This paper will examine these two business units as well as the influences in both the internal and external environment. This examination will help to create a different set of ideologies of how the business should move forward, specifically with these two specialized units. Introduction Growth that is within a specific segment of a business is dependent on both internal and external variables that are noted among those within a given business. Today, the global marketplace is changing the way in which most corporations are working as well as the associations which are related to the businesses and the associations with the changes that are progressing and in demand. When looking at the business segmen ts of Yamaha, it can be seen that different segments require targets, positioning and new brand value to ensure the success of the products. Two of the segments which define this are the musical instruments and the vehicle engines that are defined by Yamaha. These two segments relate to the overall corporate strategy while creating an effective turn – around with the business and the way in which it is able to provide various components for the growth of the company. This paper will examine the current positioning of Yamaha, as well as the units which are located within the company. These two units will be further defined by the current position that Yamaha is in, specifically by analyzing both of the segments through various models. The components that are a part of the Yamaha segments will then be defined with strategies which should be approached to ensure continuous growth and success within the company while ensuring that there is the ability to create a stronger develop ment of the musical products and the vehicle engines. Changing the approach and focusing on the internal and external environment in a different manner ensures the success of the company while allowing for new approaches to redefine the needs within the corporation. Background of Yamaha The overall ideologies behind Yamaha began in 1887 as a forerunner to the industrial age. The company began in Japan with the focus on reed organs which could be mass produced. The ideology of Yamaha quickly expanded into musical instruments, audio – visual products, semiconductors, computer products, sporting goods, home appliances and specialty industrial tools. The growth within each of these corporations continues to segment into services and products that are a part of the main corporation and which have led to several branches which are supporting the main products offered by the company. The overall mission of the business is to provide innovative products and services with the various branches of service which are offered. The philosophy is known as kando together, which is based on enriching culture and technology with different products. This is combined with the vision of offering the products to households and businesses while providing services of the basic needs and entertainment that is associated with individuals in various societies. Today, each of the market divisions continue to create a strong presence with the general mission and vision while remaining at the cutting edge of new services and products that are related to the main products which Yamaha was founded from (Yamaha, 2011). Background of Yamaha Musical Instruments The musical instrum

Describe marketing situations in which the use of qualitative research methods would be appropriate Essay Example for Free

Describe marketing situations in which the use of qualitative research methods would be appropriate Essay Describe marketing situations in which the use of qualitative research methods would be appropriate. According to Zikmund, Ward, Lowe, Winzar, Babin Qualitative research is a methodology that elaborate interpretations of phenomenal of interest without depending on numerical measurement ( Zikmund, Ward, Lowe, Winzar, Babin, 2011, pg 65 ) . It is characterised by its aims, which relate to understanding some aspect of social life, and it’s methods which generate words, rather than numbers, as data for analysis ( Patton, Cochrain, 2002 ) . In terms of marketing situations, qualitative research methods are appropriate to be used when the organization root for new product idea generation and development, strength and weaknesses of products/ brands and studying emotions and attitudes on societal and public affairs issues (qrca. org). To maximize understanding on the situation, there are two qualitative research methods that can be consider is Focus Groups and Questionnaires. With these methods, we identify the benefits as well as limitations of using these research methods. Focus groups can be define as an unstructured, free-flowing interview with a small group of people ( Zikmund, Ward, Lowe, Winzar, Babin, 2011, p71) . An approximately 60 to 90 minute discussion is led by a trained moderator with 8 to 12 relatively homogenous but unacquainted individuals who are brought together to discuss a specific topic ( Gunn, 2004) . Focus groups allow people to discuss their feelings, anxieties and frustrations, as well as the depth of their convictions, in their own words ( Zikmund, Ward, Lowe, Winzar, Babin, 2011, p72 ) . The benefits of focus groups can be presented for an in-depth exploration of new ideas, opinions, perceptions, and reactions to concepts and messaging. Focus groups often serve as exploratory research to assist survey design of subsequent quantitative research methods. Similarly, they can also be useful in validating and/ or clarifying results garnered from previous quantitative research and can be use to elicit â€Å" in their own words descriptions of products, services or issues being discussed. Conferences and other events present relatively low-cost opportunities to conduct focus groups with target audiences. There tend to be few interviewer effects on dialog because individuals tend to be influenced more by the group discussion than by the moderator. Participants are usually enthusiastic and spontaneous in their responses and groups tend to naturally cover more questions, opinions and comments than researchers could have anticipated. The disadvantage of the focus group however shows that the results from focus groups are qualitative and nonprojectable to larger populations. They require well-trained moderators to manage discussions, maintain focus, and minimize affects of the personalities and behaviours of individual participants on others and/or the entire group. Logistical and cost considerations include room and food set-up, and incentives are typically needed to encourage response. Questionnaires are not among the most prominent methods in qualitative research, because they commonly require subjects to respond to a stimulus, and thus they are not acting naturally. However, they have their uses, especially as a means of collecting information from a wider sample than can be reached by personal interview. Though the information is necessarily more limited, it can still be very useful. For example, where certain clearly defined facts or opinions have been identified by more qualitative methods, a questionnaire can explore how generally these apply, if that is a matter of interest. Ideally, there would then be a qualitative check on a sample of questionnaire replies to see if respondents were interpreting items in the way intended. Alternatively, a questionnaire might be used in the first instance, followed by qualitative techniques on a sample as a check and to fill out certain features of the questionnaire replies. Interaction among techniques in this way is typical of qualitative research.

Theme of Fallen Angels Essay -- essays research papers

Losing Innocence: â€Å"Fallen Angels† find the true meaning of war   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã¢â‚¬Å"Fallen Angels†, written by Walter Dean Myers, is a novel that tells about the story of young boys going into battle during the Vietnam War. There are many themes in â€Å"Fallen Angels† but the main theme is the loss of innocence. The title makes reference to these themes. And the boys in the book have dreams of losing their virginity and drinking alcohol for the first time. They are thrown into a harsh reality when they are shown the trials of war. In the end, they understand that the movies that depict heroicness and honor are just images of a false idea; that war is full of chaos and horror.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The title of â€Å"Fallen Angels† is the greatest indicator of the theme. All of...

Bloodchild: Oppression in Science Fiction Essay -- Butler Bloodchild E

Bloodchild: Oppression in Science Fiction Throughout American literary history, nearly every form of literature has covered the topic of slavery and black oppression in America. From William Lloyd Garrison’s abolitionist papers to Harriet Beecher Stowe’s controversial Uncle Tom’s Cabin to Alice Walker’s The Color Purple, the exploration of the black position in America has been a theme that engrossed generations. In the past century, as science fiction has established its place in the literary genre, authors such as Octavia Butler have become increasingly popular. In her short story "Bloodchild", Butler extends the discussion of oppression in America into the science fiction genre. In this manner her story, "†¦like almost all science fiction, though it seems to concern itself with human beings and worlds of the far distance and future, it also concerns itself with the here and now" (Asimov 110). Within the first few passages of "Bloodchild", Butler establishes that the Tlic clan has oppressed the Terran clan in the past. Though this history of superiority and oppression exists between the two species, T’Gatoi, a Tlic, is still a friend of this Terran family. "Only she [T’Gatoi] and her political faction stood between us and the hordes who did not understand why there was a Preserve†¦or†¦did not care" (Butler 1036). Gan and his family are forced to live on a preserve, keeping the Tlic from entering in and enslaving his family further. Already, one can see the similarity to the United States of America’s relations with the African-American people. Butler substitutes the race issue with a difference of species, creating an obvious physical incongruity between the oppressed and oppressors. This physical difference was often r... ...d its treatment of those who differ physically from the majority of the population. Through science fiction, Butler has reached another section of the literary audience, and challenged them to open their minds and to change their world. Bibliography Primary Source Butler, Olivia. "Bloodchild." The Prentice Hall Anthology of Science Fiction and Fantasy. Ed. Garyn G. Roberts. Upper Saddle River: Prentice-Hall Inc., 2001.1035-1049. Secondary Sources Asimov, Isaac. "Science Fiction and Society". Asimov on Science Fiction. American Medical Association. 103-111 Du Bois, W.E.B. The Souls of Black Fold. New York: Fawcett World Library, 1903. Litwak, Leon. Trouble in Mind: Black Southerners in the Age of Jim Crow. New York: Knopf, 1998. Rundblad, Georganne and Peter Kivisto. Multiculturalism in the United States. Thousand Oaks: Pine Forge Press, 2000.

Key Of Responsibility Speech

A lovely evening to all! Tonight I may say, to all of us seniors, let us congratulate ourselves for we all have been doing so great to make this tale of our lives as fulfilling as we want it and as adventurous as we make it. In four years of staying here in this institution, I may conclude that counting the wonderful moments that we shared in our high school days is a mind-boggling thing because even the depressing ones that we lived through contributed in helping us to become what we are today.Yes, even being â€Å"pasaways† in front of our teachers, all are considered factors that made this experience complete and of course, a perfect one. And if we are going to look at it, everything happened in a blast but, much unnoticed. When I made my first footsteps in this school in the early days of my freshman year, one thing I can’t forget is our innocent selves, just like a blind person who seeks the right path, looking for the white light behind the darkness of that innoce nce.By all means, we looked for the knowledge we need and we craved for the wisdom we must possess before we depart from this home, from this family. We were so curious about all the things that we encountered everyday but we did not know to whom we must hold on and how to distinguish right from wrong. And because of such blindness, receiving only the radiance of the twilight, some succeeded in knowing all the essential things to be remembered and to be understood by the heart but others got lost and failed to know the indispensable truth of life.We have encountered many things as high school students but still, our journey will not stop after this stage. And I’m very proud that we never lose hope when failures and disappointments come our way. We defended what we love, and fought for what we believed in. And as for you, the juniors, in a few more days, your job will be to continue the unfinished tasks we will leave behind as we sail in our respective ships to discover new oc eans. In behalf of the seniors, we are thankful because you are our companions and these years will serve as memories that we will cherish forever.After we move on, after we step on another phase of our lives, you must learn and remember the things that have helped us to finish this stage. Some things that we did, might not have worked out well but we trust that after we leave the portals of this institution, you may learn from our mistakes. Expect the worst but always strive for the best. Whenever you fail, don’t lose hope, just stand up. Consider such challenges as a blessing. We must learn from these challenges, particularly the failures so that we will achieve more success. You must also learn how to be humble.Humility is one sign of being educated, of being wise. This will be the start of your time to grow up and make your own; we believe that you can do more than what we have done. You must learn to be contented sometimes but grow most of the time. It is always right to be contented but this will sometimes hinder you from growing, from progressing. You only live once, so live your life to the fullest. It is not yet over so never make this as an excuse for you to be contented; there are many more fishes in the sea, waiting for you to discover them.Just be grateful for all your achievements and be thankful to the One who is the first and the last thing we must think of, God, because His love for us and His will to guide us is everlasting. To all Juniors, Knowledge has taught us the elements of character that facilitate success. With this key of acceptance we pass on to you the skills to learn, the aptitude to succeed, and the creativity to make a difference. We hope to see all your spectacular dreams come true. GOD BLESS US ALL!!! Key of Responsibility Speech A lovely evening to all! Tonight I may say, to all of us seniors, let us congratulate ourselves for we all have been doing so great to make this tale of our lives as fulfilling as we want it and as adventurous as we make it. In four years of staying here in this institution, I may conclude that counting the wonderful moments that we shared in our high school days is a mind-boggling thing because even the depressing ones that we lived through contributed in helping us to become what we are today.Yes, even being â€Å"pasaways† in front of our teachers, all are considered factors that made this experience complete and of course, a perfect one. And if we are going to look at it, everything happened in a blast but, much unnoticed. When I made my first footsteps in this school in the early days of my freshman year, one thing I can’t forget is our innocent selves, just like a blind person who seeks the right path, looking for the white light behind the darkness of that innoce nce.By all means, we looked for the knowledge we need and we craved for the wisdom we must possess before we depart from this home, from this family. We were so curious about all the things that we encountered everyday but we did not know to whom we must hold on and how to distinguish right from wrong. And because of such blindness, receiving only the radiance of the twilight, some succeeded in knowing all the essential things to be remembered and to be understood by the heart but others got lost and failed to know the indispensable truth of life.We have encountered many things as high school students but still, our journey will not stop after this stage. And I’m very proud that we never lose hope when failures and disappointments come our way. We defended what we love, and fought for what we believed in. And as for you, the juniors, in a few more days, your job will be to continue the unfinished tasks we will leave behind as we sail in our respective ships to discover new oc eans. In behalf of the seniors, we are thankful because you are our companions and these years will serve as memories that we will cherish forever.After we move on, after we step on another phase of our lives, you must learn and remember the things that have helped us to finish this stage. Some things that we did, might not have worked out well but we trust that after we leave the portals of this institution, you may learn from our mistakes. Expect the worst but always strive for the best. Whenever you fail, don’t lose hope, just stand up. Consider such challenges as a blessing. We must learn from these challenges, particularly the failures so that we will achieve more success. You must also learn how to be humble.Humility is one sign of being educated, of being wise. This will be the start of your time to grow up and make your own; we believe that you can do more than what we have done. You must learn to be contented sometimes but grow most of the time. It is always right to be contented but this will sometimes hinder you from growing, from progressing. You only live once, so live your life to the fullest. It is not yet over so never make this as an excuse for you to be contented; there are many more fishes in the sea, waiting for you to discover them.Just be grateful for all your achievements and be thankful to the One who is the first and the last thing we must think of, God, because His love for us and His will to guide us is everlasting. To all Juniors, Knowledge has taught us the elements of character that facilitate success. With this key of acceptance we pass on to you the skills to learn, the aptitude to succeed, and the creativity to make a difference. We hope to see all your spectacular dreams come true. GOD BLESS US ALL!!!

Life of a Confederate Soldier essays

Life of a Confederate Soldier essays Did you hear that John, the South made their own government earlier this week. Said Steve King, my younger brother, on our way back home from a swim with some of our slave friends. Yeah, and Jefferson Davis was chosen to be president. I replied, but Im not to sure seceding from the union was to good of an idea. I dont see anything good coming from the South seceding, even if it is constitutional. Im glad we seceded from the union. When the Yankees look at the south all they see is wasted land. They want to get rid of our way of life, which is the backbone of the United States, so that they can industrialize the South and make more money for themselves. Hes right, but I hope it doesnt come to war. The North would be much better prepared, and to many innocent people would die. But chances are it will, and this guy Lincoln wants it to. He said he wants unity for strength, I doubt that, he is no different than the rest of those abolitionist northerners. When we returned home, my life was changed forever. My mom, crying uncontrollably, took my brother and me in her arms, and told us the horrible news. A group of abolitionist, who were trying to start a slave revolt, killed my dad. He was only trying to stop them from taking innocent peoples lives, and despite his courageous efforts his innocent life was taken in a blink of an eye. The next few months were the two of the hardest months of my life. Then it happened, the Confederates attacked Fort Sumter, and the Civil War began. As soon as we could my brother and I told our mom we were going to join the confederates cause in the Civil War. I didnt want it to come to war but, I told my mom and brother, after Dad was killed I have been waiting for an excuse for revenge. My brother felt the same way, and thats why we were surprised when Mom would not let us...

Flares of Memory essays

Flares of Memory essays Sheila Chamovitz, developer of Flares of Memory: Stories of Childhood During the Holocaust, wanted to capture the essence of children during the holocaust during World War II. Since there are very few survivors still alive today she wanted to get their stories on paper so that generations to come would be able to learn the stories of the people that suffered for so long both during and after the war. After hearing one woman break down in her kitchen after suppressing her feelings for so long, Ms.Chamovitz decided to hold a conference in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania at the Holocaust Center to have some survivors write their story. This is how the book, Flares of Memory: Stories of Childhood During the Holocaust was born. The survivors that were invited to the conference were the sources Ms. Chamovitz used in putting this books together. They held workshops in order to make sure they developed their stories and got their message across. Another very important aspect is that all editing, no matter how small, was approved by the writer of the particular writer. Ms. Chamovitz wanted to make sure that nothing was changed that the writers wanted to include in their story. There were several themes within the book, however the main theme within it was survival. All of these children survived the war, despite all of the odds being against them. Some were forced into hiding, others were in the concentrations camps we hear so much about. These people were punished because of their religion beyond all reasoning. While reading this book I took notice when a writer would say something like, I am the only survivor of my family, there were eleven. There could possibly be more than that and the writer simply did not mention it. To think that entire families were wiped out is a mindblower. You always knew that these families existed, but you did not hear specific stories of survival. In the story What Ever Happened t...

Definition of Precipitation Reaction

Definition of Precipitation Reaction A precipitation reaction is a  type of chemical reaction in which two soluble salts in aqueous solution combine and one of the products is an insoluble salt called a  precipitate. The precipitate may stay in the solution as a suspension, fall out of solution on its own, or can be separated from the liquid using centrifugation, decantation, or filtration. The liquid that remains when a precipitate forms is called the supernate. Whether or not a precipitation reaction will occur when two solutions are mixed may be predicted by consulting a solubility table  or the solubility rules. Alkali metal salts and those containing ammonium cations are soluble. Acetates, perchlorates, and nitrates are soluble. Chlorides, bromides, and iodides are soluble. Most other salts are insoluble, with exceptions (e.g., calcium, strontium, barium sulfides, sulfates, and hydroxides are soluble). Note that not all ionic compounds react to form precipitates. Also, a precipitate may form under certain conditions, but not others. For example, changes in temperature and pH can affect whether or not a precipitation reaction will occur. Generally, increasing temperature of a solution increases the solubility of the ionic compounds, improving the likelihood of precipitate formation. The concentration of the reactants is also an important factor. Precipitation reactions are usually single replacement reactions or double replacement reactions. In a double replacement reaction, both ionic reactants dissociate in water and their ions bonds with the respective cation or anion from the other reactant (switch partners). In order for a double replacement reaction to be a precipitation reaction, one of the resulting products must be insoluble in aqueous solution. In a single replacement reaction, an ionic compound dissociates and either its cation or anion bonds with another ion in solution to form an insoluble product. Uses of Precipitation Reactions Whether or not mixing two solutions produces a precipitate is a useful indicator of the identity of the ions in an unknown solution. Precipitation reactions are also useful when preparing and isolating a compound. Precipitation Reaction Examples The reaction between silver nitrate and potassium chloride is a precipitation reaction because solid silver chloride is formed as a product.AgNO3(aq) KCl(aq) → AgCl(s) KNO3(aq) The reaction may be recognized as a precipitation because two ionic aqueous solutions (aq) react to yield a solid product (s). Its common to write precipitation reactions in terms of the ions in the solution. This is called a complete ionic equation: Ag  (aq)   NO3−(aq)   K  (aq)   Cl−(aq)  Ã¢â€ â€™ AgCl  (s)   K  (aq)   NO3−(aq) Another way to write a precipitation reaction is as a net ionic equation. In the net ionic equation, the ions that dont participate in the precipitation are omitted. These ions are called spectator ions because they seem to sit back and watch the reaction without taking part  in it. In this example, the net ionic equation is: Ag(aq)   Cl−(aq)  Ã¢â€ â€™ AgCl  (s) Properties of Precipitates Precipitates are crystalline ionic solids. Depending on the species involved in the reaction, they may be colorless or colorful. Colored precipitates most often appear if they involve transition metals, including the rare earth elements.

English Language Learner Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

English Language Learner - Essay Example In addition, ELL students tend to be nervous and anxious about interacting and addressing these issues to their teachers. In some cultures for instance, it is considered a taboo for a male, Middle-Eastern student to ask for help since it is considered to be â€Å"unmanly.† Issues such as these are prevalent in all cultures. The fear of participation and interaction with mainstream students for international students is even harder when interacting with NES. International students are intimidated as the possibility of mispronouncing or misinterpreting a certain words can be extremely humiliating. Undoubtedly, ESL students feel constrained to communicate effectively in a social environment due to their accents. All these factors accumulate to create a barrier towards developing interpersonal relationships. 2. What are the socio-cultural characteristics of young English Language Learners? What are the educational backgrounds of the families whose home language is other than Engli sh? Gather information about demographics in your state, and discuss how this can impact your work as a teacher.   Young English language learners are hardworking, determined and enthusiastic about learning the English language. Most students that are international students are middle-class and are highly educated. ... For instance, researchers suggest that developing critical skills for international students stem from analyzing magazine and radio advertisements. With this creative approach, students tend to modify their attention between subject matter and language data. 3. How do young ELL children acquire a second language? What is your current ability in supporting acquisition of second language for young ELL children?   Based on careful analysis, everyday conversational skills such as writing, reading and collaboration can truly solidify the foundation of the student’s cognitive and linguistic skills. In the process of learning an additional language, ESL students must keep up with the daily strains that are placed in their program of studies. Furthermore, ESL students must learn to excel in time management skills. Indisputably, each student has a unique set of literacy development needs. Most ESL students have a strict schedule and must be accommodated with personalized program of a ctivities that is managed by the staff itself. Lastly, the implementation of workshops with groups can tremendously enhance the process of acquiring a second language. As of now, we conduct workshops and conduct role playing, in which students are always engaged in a learning environment. 4. Describe how young ELL children’s cultural communication styles and learning styles affect the learning process. Refer to your observation of a young ELL child, during your Family Workshop. How did the family / teacher respond to the child in context of his/her communication style and learning style?   Without a doubt, different cultures possess different

External analysis of Logoplaste Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

External analysis of Logoplaste - Essay Example Logoplaste exists in a highly competitive market and faces stiff competition from Alpla-Werke, Amcor, Graham Packaging, and Plastipak. Amcor, an Australian packaging giant, is the largest player in the plastic manufacturing industry and packaging business. Alpla-Werke has a large market base in Europe and Latin America, which holds half of its manufacturing plants ((Alcacer and Leitao, 2013, 8). The company seeks to consolidate its place in the fast-growing Asian market. Graham packaging uses manufacturing processes and technologies to produce plastic containers from various resins. It has its presence in North America, Latin America, and Europe. Plastipak is an American company with several plants in America and Europe and has been a lead supplier for Pepsi. All the companies are great competitors and are currently competing for the Asian market. Logoplaste has a loyal customer base owing to its beneficial relationship with customers. Its main customers are fast-moving consumer goods such as Coca-Cola and P&G. Innovative packing attracts positive customer attention, and this is an important factor in the challenging retail market. Logoplaste are forced to expand internationally owing to the presence of their customers globally (Alcacer and Leitao, 2013, 3). They ventured into the Asia Pacific region, and started up a new production unit for P&G in Kuantan, Malaysia to produce packaging for domestic

TRENDS IN CONTEMPORARY SOCIETY Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

TRENDS IN CONTEMPORARY SOCIETY - Essay Example the new appearing forms of families resulting from both demographic and structural changes occurring in the world, it is still very important to categorize it for analytical purposes. According to Rappaport and Rapaport (1982), there are five types of family diversity which are very important in understanding how family diversity takes shape in real life: It results from the different access to economic and material resources that the families may posses. Social class diversity gives rise to rich and poor families in the society and is very vital in the modern world. This is because it considerable implications on the well being of the members of the family. For example, the ability of a child to access educational opportunities is greatly determined or influenced by the social class and economic well being of the family. Children from poor or underprivileged families may not have good life as compared to those from well-t-do families. It refers to the different types of family organization which develop different realities for its members. Compare for instance single parent families (where children live with only one parent) with reconstituted families (which are as a result of divorce and remarriage) with dual career families (where both parents work outside the home). Merely all families go through various stages of development and families which are in their early stages of development are quite different from those in their late stages of development. The stages of families in the life cycle lead to different experiences of family life for each individual member of the family. It results from the difference in cultural preferences and arrangements that exist around the world. In the UK the nuclear families are the typical family arrangements with children and their parents staying or living differently and independently with considerable autonomy from their kin. In china, the family arrangement is the stem family where two or more generations live

500 word essay symbolism in the short story the glass menagerie

500 word symbolism in the short story the glass menagerie - Essay Example One of the first symbols encountered by the reader is the fire escape. The fire escape represents both a literal and symbolic way to leave the house. It also represents a major them in the story – the need to escape. Williams describes the Wingfield house and makes note of the fire escape. He explains â€Å"huge buildings are always burning with the slow and implacable fires of human desperation† (scene i). Certainly this is true of the Wingfield family. Tom wishes to escape from his boring job and current lifestyle because â€Å"Man is by instinct a lover, a hunter, a fighter, and none of those instincts are given much play at the warehouse!† (scene ii). He does succeed, occasionally, in finding comfort in movies, drinking, and magic shows. The fire escape represents his ultimate path to his freedom. His regular trips onto the fire escape to smoke foreshadows the permanent abandonment of his family. In the final speech of the story, Tom states â€Å"I descended the steps of this fire escape for a last time and followed, from then on, in my father’s footsteps, attempting to find in motion what was lost in space† (scene vii). Laura wishes to escape too. However, she seeks refuge not in the real world but within the house and a reality all her own. The fire escape protects her from the outside world. She wishes to isolate herself from the world where her deformity is laughed at and her shy spirit is crushed. Even when she ventures out on to the fire escape she slips representing another failed attempt at entering the real world (scene iv). is a symbol of the affection that Laura seeks and the cruelty that world offers her. Blue roses are both unusual and mysterious which reflects Lauras personality. The nick name while seemingly affectionate was actually a play on the term â€Å"pleurosis† which Laura suffered from in her childhood. Additional, the use of the name Rose pays

Primary Drawbacks of Net Present Value as Capital Budgeting Technique Assignment

Primary Drawbacks of Net Present Value as Capital Budgeting Technique - Assignment Example This entire process has multiple loopholes, for instance the uncertainty that is prevailing when it comes to estimating future cash flows of that investment opportunity is high enough to put this technique under scrutiny. Next loophole is regarding the discount rate that is used to reach the present value of a cash flow. Again the accuracy of discount rate used is of critical importance in determining the correct value of the cash flow’s present value. This makes NPV value dependent or sensitive to the value of discount rate and forecasted cash flows. Third loophole that is pretty much evident from the assessment of this tool is that this tool takes into account information that is present at the time of decision making, thus it does not take into account changes in the initial conditions of an investment opportunity. The fourth loophole that can be seen is that this tool is only applicable when projects being assessed are tangible and quantifiable. And in reality firms undert ake certain projects that are aimed at enhancing the brand equity, such projects are out of the scope of NPV (Kent & English, 2011). Question # 2: Comparison of Net Present Value and Internal Rate of Return: This tool or technique is another capital budgeting technique. IRR is the discount rate that turns the net present value of forecasted cash flows from an investment opportunity equal to zero. ... A decision regarding a particular investment opportunity that is based on NPV technique will find itself under scrutiny when assessed using IRR technique. While this fact is not true for independent projects where both techniques will yield similar results, but when it comes to mutually exclusive projects (one project or the other) these tools do not yield a consistent result. The reason behind this conflict is that the set of investment opportunity that is being assessed consists of projects that vary in their size and timings of their future cash flows (Helfert, 2004). So it is clear that if a company is deciding between two investment opportunities, it will encounter a problem when it is using NPV and IRR to assess the value of these investment opportunities for the company. In this conflicting situation the company shall have to decide whether it will make its decision based on NPP or IRR (Helfert, 2004). Question # 3: Avenues to raise equity for a Profit Driven Firm: A profit dr iven firm, if assumed to be a corporation, has multiple options at its disposal to raise new equity capital. The first option that it has is to go to its existing shareholder for additional capital. The second option it has is to add more shareholders into the company by offering new share in the primary market. The third option available to a profit driven firm is that it can seek help from a venture capitalist firm; again this will be in exchange for some portion of the company’s equity. The fourth option available to the company is that it asks a bank for a loan in return for interest payments. These mentioned options are most suited to meet the company’s short-term capital requirement

500 word essay symbolism in the short story the glass menagerie

500 word symbolism in the short story the glass menagerie - Essay Example One of the first symbols encountered by the reader is the fire escape. The fire escape represents both a literal and symbolic way to leave the house. It also represents a major them in the story – the need to escape. Williams describes the Wingfield house and makes note of the fire escape. He explains â€Å"huge buildings are always burning with the slow and implacable fires of human desperation† (scene i). Certainly this is true of the Wingfield family. Tom wishes to escape from his boring job and current lifestyle because â€Å"Man is by instinct a lover, a hunter, a fighter, and none of those instincts are given much play at the warehouse!† (scene ii). He does succeed, occasionally, in finding comfort in movies, drinking, and magic shows. The fire escape represents his ultimate path to his freedom. His regular trips onto the fire escape to smoke foreshadows the permanent abandonment of his family. In the final speech of the story, Tom states â€Å"I descended the steps of this fire escape for a last time and followed, from then on, in my father’s footsteps, attempting to find in motion what was lost in space† (scene vii). Laura wishes to escape too. However, she seeks refuge not in the real world but within the house and a reality all her own. The fire escape protects her from the outside world. She wishes to isolate herself from the world where her deformity is laughed at and her shy spirit is crushed. Even when she ventures out on to the fire escape she slips representing another failed attempt at entering the real world (scene iv). is a symbol of the affection that Laura seeks and the cruelty that world offers her. Blue roses are both unusual and mysterious which reflects Lauras personality. The nick name while seemingly affectionate was actually a play on the term â€Å"pleurosis† which Laura suffered from in her childhood. Additional, the use of the name Rose pays

Contamination and Risk Assessment in Environmental Law Essay

Contamination and Risk Assessment in Environmental Law - Essay Example In a nutshell, substance, range and quantity are key in this third level. The last stage involved risk characterization that looks at the data collected and its relevance to the environmental stressor. Transparency, clarity, consistency and reason are the principles that guide this stage. Ecological risk assessment is concerned with the potential risk f substances on a whole range of organisms including birds, mammals, and reptiles in the rivers. Human health risk assessment, on the other hand, is more interested with the lives of individual beings. Both of these concepts employ the same models, however, ecological risk assessment involved foraging range omitted in human health risk assessment. Ecological risk assessment heavily relies on physical impacts of the substance. For example, it considers the physical abnormalities on the animals, changes in color of the plants among others. The national resource damage assessment and restoration (NRDAR) projects aim to rehabilitate the environment mainly land and water sources from large oil spills and effects of mining activities. The program carries assessment on the damages to the environment and push for legal action from the relevant authority. The NRDA has continued to carry out many activities for the deepwater horizon spill. Some of its activities include assessing the damage the level of impacts from the spill. The project is also interested in implementing rehabilitation for the natural resources damaged during the spill. The final plan is restoration program, which will include compensation of individuals involved.

Examples of Good and Bad Essays Essay Example for Free

Examples of Good and Bad Essays Essay To give you a sense of what is acceptable writing and what is unacceptable writing, here we present six essays. These essays are possible student answers to three assignments which are similar to assignments you might receive in class. Essays 1 and 2 deal with the following question: Professions have a tendency to develop a separate terminology that only members can follow. One reason for doing so might be described as society-serving and another might be described as self-serving. In a short essay discusses which of these two reasons do you think is more important in the case of economic jargon. Essays 3 and 4 deal with the following question: The Heisenberg principle states that there is a limit to our knowledge of reality because as we study certain physical phenomena we change them. Might a Heisenberg-type principle be relevant to economics? Write a short essay explaining why or why not. Essays 5 and 6 are responses to the following: In a Wall Street Journal article, a woman named Ms. Luhrs is quoted as saying, â€Å"If you’re continually consuming, you have to keep working, you can’t get off the treadmill.† Write a short essay explaining whether this a rational statement. After presenting all six essays we grade them and provide a brief overall assessment of the essays. We also provide some specific comments about what we liked and what we didn’t like. When you read our comments, think about the process of grading. That process has, by its nature, both an objective and a subjective element to it. The objective element of grading is the easiest. The objective part of the grade is based on considerations such as: Does the essay answer the question posed? Are the grammar, formatting, spelling, and standard elements of style up to speed? There is no debate about these relatively objective issues. For example, if you don’t answer the question you’re supposed to, you probably won’t do well on the essay. And if your paper has many grammatical mistakes, you’re in trouble. The subjective element of grading works like a wild card in the grading process. Usually, there are many ways a question can be answered. Some ways will strike a chord with your reader; some won’t. The same is true with discretionary elements of style. Some professors may like your style; some won’t. For example, Colander, the guy who wrote your textbook, has a very informal, matter of fact, style. His style turns off a number of economics professors. Some of these consider his work abominable because of that style; they assign his book nonetheless, because, on objective grounds, it is a great book. (That’s a Colander ironic stylism, in case you were wondering.) And still others, we’re happy to say, like his style. (If they didn’t the book wouldn’t sell, and the Colander text would be eliminated from the market.) The point of this example is that wild cards average out, so you shouldn’t concern yourself too much with the discretionary elements of style. If you get the objective elements right, you’ll most likely do well. So concentrate on objective elements first. Essay 1 Economist’s Jargon: Unite and Divide The economics profession’s jargon serves a variety of purposes. For example, their common terminology serves to make for more precise communication. It allows ideas to be communicated clearly and exactly. This exactness and clarity of terminology serves society by allowing economists to discuss economics with each other and with society with clarity so that other economists have a better understanding of what an economist is saying. A common terminology also serves to divide insiders from outsiders. For outsiders, for example economic students, who do not have a clue what these terms mean, economists’ terminology is exclusionary. It makes economists the gatekeepers of economic ideas. Economists’ terminology serves as a barrier to entry, restricting the supply of economists, and increasing the value of the services provided by existing economists. Which of these two reasons is the strongest? To answer that question let us consider two examples given by Amanda Benn ett, the author of The Wall Street Journal article, â€Å"Economists + Meeting = A Zillion Causes and Effects† [The Wall Street Journal, January 10, 1995]. The two examples are the concepts of externality and utility, Why do economists use these terms? Based on her article, and on my classroom experience, I would judge that, of the two reasons, the self-serving reason is the stronger. Essentially, economists create their terminology primarily to make life difficult for students. Consider the first example: externality. Why no simple call externalities â€Å"unintended side effects†? It would be much easier for students to comprehend. Or alternatively, consider the second, utilities. How much clarity can the concept, utility, provide when the text tells us that, essentially, it means happiness? If it means happiness, why not use the term, happiness? The very fact that Ms. Bennett can provide a simple translation of economists’ jargon suggests that the jargon was unneeded for precise communication. And even, if there is some value added in terms of clarity of the jargon, do its costs in additional memorization for students, outweighs the gain. For me, the answer is clearly, no. Actually, to answer anything other than economists are self-serving would show that I have not done my homework. Economists’ basic premise is that people are self-serving. Why should economists be any different. With a difficult to learn economic terminology, economists can create a monopoly position for themselves; they can restrict supply and increase price for their services. To quote the textbook, â€Å"people do what they do because it’s in their self interest.† Thus, the preponderance of the evidence suggests that economists have developed their economic jargon with their self-interest, not society’s interest, in mind. I think the self serving reason why professions develop a separate terminology that only members can follow is more important because people are greedy and always want what is good for them, not what is good for society because of the problems of the barriers to entry and the free rider and thus, the self serving reason is more important. On the other hand, it is good for society if professions develop a separate terminology that only members can follow because then everyone can understand them, and they can understand each other. A common terminology permits effective interpersonal communication, thereby resulting in clear, complete, open dialogue. So in a way, the society-serving causes of professionals’ terminology outweigh the self-serving causes because if we didn’t have it, then we wouldn’t be able to understand the weighty and eloquent locutions spoken by the eminent economists of yesteryear and today. For these reasons, I think that sometimes the society-serving reason is the most important. This the intellectual importance of the self-serving reason which is also the most important sometimes. The whole theory of the principle of rational choice theory which says that one should do that which yields the maximum marginal utility according to your self interest which is to say that selfishness is the thing that drives most people. Economists do not find it in their best selfish interest to use normal English to discuss economic theory because then everyone would be speaking it in the society, and the marginal utility is low. Instead of that, economists developed a terminology which only they could use, so people would have to attend institutions of higher learning to make it possible for them to profess economic tenets. This is called barriers to entry because people are barred from entering the world of economics by the insurmountable difficulties in attaining a sufficiently acceptable level of proficiency in the economics terminology. Barriers to entry create monopolies, market structures in which one firm makes up the entire market. Three important barriers to entry are natural ability, increasing returns to scale, and government restrictions, economics terminology can’t really be considered any of these because it’s more similar to learning by doing. Also the free rider problem undermines people’s willingness to perform service to their society further strengthening the argument that self-serving reasons have prompted economists to adopt their own terminology. Keeping people from becoming economists or talking about economics through the language barrier. This causes another dramatic consequence. The supply for economists is restricted, so that each economist who exists in the present market for economists may value their work at a higher price. So as you can see, the most important reason is the self-serving one, and subsequently, economists’ use of an economic terminology results in increased benefit to the economists at the expense of society. The society-serving reason pales in comparison. A quick skim of The Wall Street Journal on a daily basis for just a week should prove to you that the Heisenberg principle does indeed apply to economics. The Wall Street Journal provides daily analyses of economic events and economists’ perspectives on what has happened as well as what is likely to happen. The Wall Street Journal ‘s curculation is evidence that these analyses are taken seriously by both businesspeople and consumers. To see how economists’ predictions change the course of economic events, look at economists’ assessment of leading and coincidental indicators and the subsequent movement up or down in the markets for stocks and bonds. Leading indicators are used to predict what is likely to happen in the future, while coincidental indicators are used to describe the economy’s current condition. When the economists say that the indicators demonstrate that the economy is in a recession or entering a recession, consumers and businesses react immediately to prepare for the anticipated recession by reducing consumption and investing more cautiously. This often serves to hasten the onset of a recession, fullfilling the economists’ original prediction. In turn, if consumers and businesses expect good times ahead, they invest and spend their money more confidently. High levels of investment and consumption translate to strong economic growth. An examination of â€Å"Orders for Durable Goods Plunge by 6%,† [The Wall Street Journal, May 25, 1995] yields an example of how this cycle works. Note Marilyn Schaja’s prediction that the Fed will move toward â€Å"an easier policy stance† and the reaction of investors in the bond markets to this statement and others similar to it; the bond market soared due to speculation that interest rates might be cut soon. This is only one example of how economists’ predictions directly affect the bond market, but the bond market rises and falls dramatically each day in response to speculation about what the Fed will do or whether the economy is predicted to speed up or slow down. Other examples abound on the second page of The Wall Street Journal. But economists are not gods. They cannot know for sure what is going to happen to the economy, and they often disagree with one another. When there is a majority consensus, the Heisenberg principle operates in full force. Businesses and consumers are often susceptible to the majority opinion, and economists’ predictions will likely be fulfilled just because the predictions have been made. When all economists seem to disagree, the individual is left to make his own decisions. In this case, the outcome is less predictable, and it might seem that the observed is less likely to be affected by the process of observation. I don’t think the Hiesenberg principle can be relevent to economics because its a phisics principal. Phisics and economics are two different subjects, phisics being a natural science, and economics being a social science. I don’t think that economic predictions have anything to do with the events that they predict. The article compares economists to meteoroligists. Meterologists’ predictions don’t change the whether, so economists predictions don’t change the economy. This means that the Hieisenburg isn’t appliable. Underlying economic reasoning is economists’ analysis of individual choice. That analysis is based upon the observation that, generally, people act according to their rational self-interest, trying to get as much pleasure as possible out of life. From this proposition and subsequent measurement of pleasure, comes economists’ basic principle of rational choice: spend your money on those goods that give you the most marginal utility per dollar. An economist would use this principle to assess whether or not Ms. Luhrs’s statement is rational. If Ms. Luhrs calculated the marginal utility per dollar of leisure to be greater than that of consumption of material goods, and thus, work, her statement would be assumed to be rational by economists. The article, â€Å"When Shopping Sprees Pall, Some Seek the Simple Life,† [The Wall Street Journal, May 24, 19995] discusses that the decision is hers and that it has been made after careful thought. For example, Ms. Luhrs’s statement â€Å"It’s a freedom thing, the way I see it,† demonstrates the high value she gives to freedom, and the low value she gives to material goods. The fact that many people do not share her valuation of leisure versus material wealth is irrelevant to the issue. There is nothing in economics that says that people must want more and more material things. A second part of the principle of rational choice is the principle of diminishing marginal utility: as our consumption of an item increases, the marginal utility obtained from each unit decreases. It could be argued that Ms. Luhrs is demonstrating this principle: that after a certain point, work and consumption of material goods becomes less and less satisfying; the marginal utili ty of consumption of material goods falls. No, it is not rational because according to the economic theory, you should spend your money on those goods which yield the maximum utility per dollar. MUx/Px must equal MUy/Py. If MUx/Px is less than MUy/Py, than it is the consumer’s duty to buy more of good Y. If MUy/Py is less than MUx/Px, than the consumer must use more of good X. When you work more, you can consume more, each additional unit yielding additional, marginal utility, so you continually increase the sum of your total utility. Following the tradition of economic reasoning, more is better. She may be right about that treadmill because there is a cycle in which consumption results from work which necessitates further consumption, but theory would indicate that this is a positive, self-perpetuating cycle because increased consumption yields increased utility, therefore maximizing utility. The book says that the rule to follow is to vary consumption until the marginal utility for every dollar for one thing that you are consuming is the same as the marginal utility for every dollar for another thing that you are consuming. Ms. Luhr’s dissatisfaction from her current status in our society must come from her failure to vary her consumption of a variety of material goods. For goods, the marginal utility may start to be less than it was before after a while, and then we are advised to switch our buying to other goods. Ms. Luhr needs to find the goods which work for her. Then she wouldn’t be talking about the negative aspects of work because it is work which allows her to consume and maximize her utility. Her utils are at their highest the more she consumes. In my view Ms. Luhr is succumbing to her emotions rather than her logic because everyone knows that increased work yields increased wealth and increased utility, and this is the ultimate goal of a rational person who is acting selfishly which is how economists think people act. If Ms. Luhr were truly being selfish and self-interested, she would obtain greater satisfaction from greater consumption, but her statement is defying this tenet of rationality which is so important to economic reasoning. She doesn’t want more. She must be irrational.

Operations and Business Strategy of McDonalds

Operations and Business Strategy of McDonalds INTRODUCTION: McDonald is a very popular fast food business which is operating all over the world. It started its operations in sixties and currently it is serving worldwide chain of 30,000 restaurants. McDonald restaurant has a quality that it serves its product according to the culture of that region where they are operating. Several artifacts of modern world has been very well organized as Macdonalds famous product, promotional plan with the famed toys and films, its participation in the aid organization and its dispersion classified adds. More than 75% of McDonald is owned and operated by local men and women. Its serves more than 40million people per day. It gets about 82% of its revenue from 8 different countries which include Japan, Korea, Australia, France, Germany and USA. But the biggest achievements got by McDonald in these countries is creating a good name and brand image in peoples mind and hygiene cautions are the main driving advantage it has which helps the Macdonald to attract many customers. They have created a corporate symbol and saturated advertisement has helped the Macdonald by creating a good brand name and image of logo in the millions of people mind. Overall McDonald planned plan is called plan to succeed. There focal point is not to be the biggest fast food chain in the world but the finest fast food chain. McDonald planned philosophy in the rear this plan is generates recovered experience through the finishing of multiple proposals immediate the five factor of incomparable customer understanding. (McDonald, 2009) A key element of the MacDonald strategy since the beginning has been to own all the property on which the MacDonald was built doesnt matter the property is franchised or company owned. Rental money differs from property to property but it has been estimated that McDonald generate more money from its rents of the property than the franchise fees it charges. The success of the MacDonald since its beginning can be attributed to the customers service it provides. Each restaurant wants to have a good brand image by giving quality food and good customers services. In both field McDonald has made its name as it is providing quality and cheap food together with quality service. It has come with a limited menu but with great improvements. Another invention was the introduction of the play area. MacDonald is continuing new inventions to facilitate the mass customization process. In 2001 McDonalds began standardizing its technology its existing point of sale system with the office system in more than 11,000 stores in the United States. The company is investing in a common point of sale which will be available to use all over the world in its branches. (typepad, 2009) McDonalds make possible the replace of value by matching the money paid by customers with quality and diversity of products and services resulting to the customer feeling of having acknowledged their moneys significance and even more than what they compensated for. McDonald objective the customer happiness by food preparation the penchant to formulate the customers feels satisfied about the cost exchange. McDonald is advice for the family or friends get-together as well. MCDONALDS VISION To be the best and leading fast food provider around the globe MISSION STATEMENT McDonalds vision is to be the worlds best quick service restaurant experience. Being the best means providing outstanding quality, service, value, and cleanliness so that we make every customer in every restaurant smile OPERATIONS AND BUSINESS STRATEGY Business strategy is defined as it is a long term planning of a business with specific goals and target within a specific time with the available resources. It is a management plan constructed by the top level of management in order to make the business runs in profit. In McDonald the business strategy for the company is to make food fast available to its customers at a very low competitive price but to get profit as well by reducing the cost of the product and expanding the business world wide. Operations strategies play a very important role in achieving organizational goals. By using these strategies an organization controls and maintains all of its operations. So these should make after a comprehensive marketing analysis according to capabilities and resources of an organization. Operation management strategies in McDonald are being made by made by top management. These strategies are implemented in all the branches of the McDonald and these strategies are distributed to all its franchise branches in the written form. So there are operational managers in all the branches that control all operational activities. McDonald has adopted a strategy which is based on the three sections. This strategy has emphasizing on the customer importance and customers satisfaction. As the company has increased using the information technology, it has developed new ideas to improve the operational activities of the business. With the introduction of stock control data base system, it avoids unnecessary ordering; keep the stock up to date in store. It has become very easy and time saving now to order the stock. Stockrooms are directly attached to point of sale system and the manager knows what product is moving fast and how much he should order more products. (typepad, 2009) REDUCING COST WITH MORE EFFICIENT EQUIPMENT The challenge facing the global equipment suppliers when they design the fryers for our restaurants is to develop such kind of equipment that are more energy efficient and gives better taste while improving the crew efficiency and using less cooking oil. The low down oil quantity Fryer is the next age band fryer. LOV improves cooking efficiency, simplifies filtering and cleaning, and provide enhanced environmental benefits. The LOVs ground-breaking design allows restaurants to roast the same sum of produce with in the region of 40% smaller amount oil. It in addition uses more or less 4 % a lesser amount of liveliness than average fryers. (Gallagher, 2003) In McDonald lighting represent an important role in reducing the cost of its operations. McDonald uses fluorescent low consumption lighting in the kitchen. Tests revealed that each restaurant saves 11,000kWh of electricity each year. Packaging plays an important role of McDonald brand not only for quality, integrity and safety but also in its visibility to our customers. McDonald also use its cooking oil in its transport operation which has significantly reduces the cost of operation as well. Its not policy of McDonald to make its employee work efficiently but with limited resources but it provides everything to its staff they required to do the the job efficiently and according to health and safety methods. It helps the McDonald to get more productivity and get more revenue and improve its services. In order to achieve its business strategy goals, McDonald is emphasizing more and more on reducing its cost of operational activities. In order to reduce the cost McDonalds purchases most of the vegetables especially potatoes directly from farmers, this help the McDonald not even to cut the cost of chips production but also get fresh vegetable for salad for its customers. This also helps McDonald to not get effected by the fluctuations in the market prices. (typepad, 2009) Aside from offering hamburgers and fresh fries, McDonald has start serving the family treat and as a community centre for the senior citizen. It has also start giving indoor playgrounds and promotional toys to its kids as well. As this movement begins there is an addition of extra service-oriented equipment is desired. They can carry out studies and review to improve knows which among the different possibilities serves the companys target in good way. These will involve robots to do order tacking in replace of humans, automated processes of food in McDonald has (typepad, 2009) McDonald has a policy to be in the market as a market leader. In order to keep its leadership it keeps low cost and gets more income by selling food at cheap price. Food made with the help of machine is considered more hygienic; however the continuous development in the technology McDonald and especially its employees as they have to serve quick services. Computers and smart cashiers are used by the employees so that they would not get confused and they are provided with customized database management system. These all operational activities are conducted in all the branches of McDonald worldwide in order to successfully implement the business strategy of the McDonald. MCDONALD LAYOUT, PROCESS TYPE AND USE OF TECHNOLOGIES MCDONALD KITCHEN LAYOUT The strategy refers to the overall working and general environment offered by the McDonald. It includes the personal level, service and product layout, interior and exterior. McDonald has a policy to serve the fresh food to it customers in a minimum time and at the same time they want to get as many as possible customers to get the more income. The most important thing on which McDonald operational department concentrate is the customers satisfaction. Customers satisfaction can only be achieved if it serves the customers with a good quality food in a quickly with minimum price. In order to perform this whole process McDonald has a very specific type of layout. This layout gives an easy access to the staff to serves the customers in a quick way. At the till when a staff serves the customer, staff has a everything in its reach required by the customer. (Gallagher, 2003) McDonald keep maximum number of tills opens to serves the customers and each staff takes average one minute to serves the customer. The chairs are arranged in such a way that it gives a minimum disruption to the people who are standing in the queue. In the kitchen department McDonald has selected high efficiency fryers which take minimum time to fry the chips. Operations manager has assigned the task to different staff members according to their ability. McDonald get most of the things in ready to serve form from its main headquarter which decrease the cost of producing the food and it also help the McDonald to keep the quality same all over its stores. Staff in McDonald only has to put the food in oil and it gets ready to serve. It also helps the McDonald to save lot of storage cost. In order to keep the system runs smoothly McDonald always keeps good relation with the suppliers. Their supplier makes sure that they deliver the goods to McDonald in the minimum possible time. (Swearingen, 2003) STRATEGIC IMPORTANCE OF LAYOUT Proper layout enables: It makes the utilization of space, equipment and people more efficient. It enables the movements of information, materials and peoples more effective. It boosts the employee morale and helps to provide him safer working conditions. It helps to improve the customers relations with clients. Flexibility Layout design mean the overall working and general environment offered by the McDonald. It includes the personal level, service and product layout, interior and exterior etc. STRATEGIES: Exterior McDonald sets its premises in proper manner to handle any number of customers easily. The building design is standard world wide but it may be have some difference in size or in exterior according to the location. It enables them to save time, satisfy their customers, comfortable environment for both employees and customers. Ray Kroc was the first person in McDonalds history who took the initative to franchise the McDonald. He also maintain the McDonald outlooks, its signs and layout same every where in the world which has directly improved the sale of the company. As it has an attractive layout and eye catching sign boards. Interior: Interiors areset to be depoliticized. In addition to new restaurant lighting, menu boards, artwork and graphics, new materials will offer choice when it comes to decor selection. Technology perks include Wi-Fi, programmed music, and video. (typepad, 2009) MCDONALDS USE OF TECHNOLOGIES McDonalds has invested a huge amount of money on creating a technology board which has help the McDonald to adopt new and new technologies in its operations with time. The main job of this board is to recommend the management to buy those kind of equipment which are very effective in saving the energy as well as are more productive. In 2001 McDonald has start investing money in the improvements of point to sale ordering system and at the same time linking the point to sale system with the back office computer in all over the world. So this thing has helped the management to know what actually happening inside the business. What customer likes and what they dislikes. McDonald has invested capital in the improvement of electronic payment system as well which has make possible to process the transactions in less than 4 seconds. (swearingen, 2003) McDonald uses the best equipment to carry out the day to day operation in its outlet. MCDONALD EXPLOTATION OF VALUE CHAIN AND QUALITY PORTERS FIVE FORCES ANALYSIS Competition Restaurant industry is highly competitive industry. There are many small fast food businesses in the industry that fight each other to improve their customer base. McDonald is not exception to this. Since it establishment in 1940, MCD has excelled in this sector. Nevertheless to stay in the competition, it started with MCafe. This helped the company to stay in the business as a major fast food business. Another major step came out when McDonald started breakfast to compete with the existing businesses serving breakfast. Hence this industry is extremely competitive and the MDC should be up to date with customer taste and preferences. Quality is very important for McDonald in order to stay in the market but at the same time it has to keep the prices minimum to maintain the cost leadership. Ease of entry Although it is hard to enter in the restaurant business as it demand a lot of investment and it is hard to establish a distinct brand name as well. There is a cost of entry in the market and there is high research and development cost. Large established companies like McDonald perform compose it more easier said than done to enter and achieve something within the souk, new entrant find with the intention of they are facade with worth antagonism from offered string eating place. At the same McDonald working hard to maintain the quality same throughout the time. It is aware that if it compromise on its quality then it will make very much easier for the new entrant to attract the customers with better quality of its food products. Substitutes McDonald keeps a very close watch on its quality because it is aware that customers have many others substitutes of its food products. e.g MDC burgers, Beverages and dairy products. Strength of Suppliers The suppliers power in the fast food manufacturing is quite miniature unless the foremost feature of the item for consumption is not voluntarily on hand. Strength of Buyers Relatively strength of buyers in this industry is relatively low.(Ifm, 2009) PORTERS FIVE FORCES ANALYSIS OF VALUE CHAIN The main objectives of these kinds of activities are to give the customer a level of value which is more than the cost of activities. This has enables the McDonald to gain more profits. The primary value chain activities are: Inbound Logistics Inbound logistics is the raw material McDonald received in its warehouse and then distribute it to different branches according to their requirements McDonald has an efficient warehousing and transporting goods to its branches. All the products are made in the warehousing and goods are distributed as per the requirement of each branch. Operations It is the activities which are being conducted in order to transform the inputs into finished products and services. McDonald has a very good operation system as it has trained staff for each task in the kitchen. Most of its product is already in the ready to serve form. All they have to put them in the ovens or in the oil and the product get ready to serve in the minimum possible time which normally takes from 1-5 minutes. Outbound Logistics Outbound logistics mean to keep the finished goods in warehouses and then distribute them to different branches. McDonald has a very well established transporting system. As all of its products are prepared at the warehouse, so in order to improve the distribution process it has applied the IT technology which inform the warehouse body that which branch is running out of the products, so before the products get finished it immediately make available the product to the branch. This process is very cost effective as branches do not need to have the stock room for the goods. Marketing Sale It is a complete science that McDonald use to market its products in order to generate more sales. Service All the extra activities which are provided to customers even after the sale of goods. The primary activities are supported by : Technology development Technologies helps the McDonald to access the activities done inside the business which are as follow: Cost advantage Keep a eye on the costs and minimizing it out of the value adding actions. According to the porters five forces analysis McDonald competes with the forces which are inside the business in order to gain the maximum profitability. So it proves that business profitability is took place in the porters five forces mode. (Ifm, 2009) Further there are Secondary support activities which directly supporting the operational activities of the business. HRM department make it possible for the business to get the energetic people to perform the operations. They always keep motivating the staff to work hard. The Management makes possible to select the technology which is cost effective together with the efficiency. CONCLUSION McDonald is a very well established organization. The success of the McDonald is completely based on the extensive research of the market internal and external forces. It has done research on the people behavior of specific country, on their culture, buying power and social issue. McDonald has paid special attention on the location of the business, its interior and exterior outlook and types of technologies it going to use to get the maximum production at short time. The most important thing which it focused on was the quality and the market forces which directly affect the business. REFERENCES Publications from McDonald web site. McDonald culture and history. 2009. [online]. [Accessed on 4 December 2009]. Available from World Wide Web: http://www.mcdonalds.com/usa/work/companyhistory.html. Publications from biz/ed web site. McDonald. 2009. [online]. [Accessed on 5 December 2009]. Available from World Wide Web: http://www.bized.co.uk/compfact/mcdonalds/mcindex.htm. Publications from typepad web site. McDonalds business Strategy. 2009. [Accessed on 5 December 2009]. Available from World Wide Web: http://ivythesis.typepad.com/term_paper_topics/2009/02/mcdonalds-business-strategy.html. GALLANGHER, S. 2003. McDonalds technology trials.[online]. [Accessed on 10 December 2009]. Available from World Wide Web: http://www.baselinemag.com/c/a/Projects-Management/McDonalds-Technology-Trials/. SWEARINGEN, J. 2000. Operations Management, Layout Strategy. [online]. [Accessed on 11 December 2009]. Available from World Wide Web: http://online.uis.edu/spring2000/bus322/lectures/chap09/sld001.htm. Publications from Ifm website. Porters value chain. [online]. [Accessed on 23 December 2009]. Available from World Wide Web: http://www.ifm.eng.cam.ac.uk/dstools/paradigm/valuch.html. PAUL, J. 2005. International Business. New Delhi. 2nd Edition. Ashoke K Gosh. Publications from typepad web site. McDonalds business Strategy. 2009. [Accessed on 5 December 2009]. Available from World Wide Web: http://ivythesis.typepad.com/term_paper_topics/2009/02/strategic-business-analysis-of-mcdonalds.html

The Role of Women in America Essay -- Womens Studies

The Role of Women in America In her essay, â€Å"Housewives and Homework: The Lacemakers of Narsapur,† Chandra Talpade Mohanty focused on how men sold products that women produced and profited from women’s work. The essay basically pointed out how work can be defined according to sexual identity. It made me wonder if American women are still perceived by men in society as being housewives even though some of us are doctors, lawyers, teachers etc. Is the work that women do seen as what Mohanty pointed out in her essay as â€Å"leisure time activities†? I think that to some extent men believe that women’s sole purpose on Earth is to be their wives/partners and to be good mothers to their children. Even though we â€Å"leisurely,† as Mohanty so plainly categorized our work according to men in India, go out to our different careers or occupations everyday, we are not truly seen as providers or given credit for being part providers for the family. Some men may feel that we pu t forth more of an effort in being a woman who cleans the house, cooks, and takes care of the children. Maybe our â€Å"le...

Walton’s Letters in Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein Essay -- Mary Shelley

Walton’s Letters in Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein ‘Frankenstein’ is a gothic, science fiction novel written by Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley. It was written in Switzerland in 1816 and London in 1816-1817. The novel begins with a series of letters from the explorer Robert Walton to his sister, Margaret Saville. The entirety of ‘Frankenstein’ is contained within Robert Walton’s letters, which record the narratives of both Frankenstein and the monster. Walton’s letters act like a framing device for Victor’s narrative. Shelley’s use of letters enables the shift of narrative from one character to another, while still remaining like a standard novel. Walton’s is only the first of many voices in ‘Frankenstein’. His letters set up a frame which encloses the main narrative (Frankenstein’s), and provides the context in which it’s told. The letters from Walton, a well-to-do Englishman with a passion for exploring, start when he’s in St.Petersburg. He is writing to his sister Margaret in England. He assures her that he is safe and is looking forward to his voyage which has been his dream for many years. He tells his sister of his preparations leading up to his departure, and of the desire burning in him to accomplish â€Å"some great purpose†- exploring and discovering uncharted territory in the North Pole. There are also many roles which Walton’s letters undertake in Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein’. Each letter has a different role and introduces new ideas. One of the main functions of the letters is to set the scene for the telling of the stranger’s narrative. In addition to this, Walton’s letters introduce an important character, Walton himself, whose story parallels Frankenstein’s. Walton parallels Victor in ... ...ledge and wisdom, as I once did; and I ardently wish that the gratification of your wishes may not be a serpent to sting you, as mine has been.† The theme of destructive knowledge is developed and predominates throughout the novel as the tragic consequences of Frankenstein’s search for knowledge are revealed. Walton, like Frankenstein also in the pursuit of knowledge attempts to surpass previous human explorations in order to discover the secrets of the unknown. Overall the role of Walton’s letters in ‘Frankenstein’ are very important. Not only do they introduce important characters such as Robert Walton, Victor Frankenstein and the monster. But they also establish the period and place in which the novel is set, introduce important ideas and themes which prevail throughout the novel, and introduce and frame the novel in a creative and interesting way.

Impact of Globalization on Developing Countries

INTRODUCTION * Globalization describes the process by which regional economies, societies and cultures have become integrated through a global network of ideas. * This integration has been fueled by technological advances in communication, transportation and trade that break down national divisions and barriers. * Globalization is recognized through a number of trends such as growing economic integration and liberalization; trade regulation; convergence of macroeconomic policies; modification of the role and concept of nation state; proliferation of supranational agreements and regulatory bodies; and globalization of information systems. These trends are associated with both positive and negative impacts on human well-being, the use and conservation of the environment, equity within countries and between developing and developed countries, participation and democratic decision-making, food security, poverty alleviation and others. 1 http://elearn. usiu. ac. ke/webapps/portal/frameset . jsp? tab_tab_group_id=_2_1&url=%2Fwebapps%2Fblackboard%2Fexecute%2Flauncher%3Ftype%3DCourse%26id%3D_4144_1%26url%3D- GLOBALIZATION LECTURE. PPTX EFFECTS OF GLOBALIZATION ON DEVELOPING COUNTRIES Globalization has brought in new opportunities to developing countries.Greater access to developed country markets and technology transfer hold out promise, improved productivity and higher living standards. But globalization has also thrown up new challenges like growing inequality across and within nations, volatility in financial markets and environmental deteriorations. 2 This paper assesses the positive and negative impact of globalization on developing countries in the following dimensions; 1. Economic 2. Social 3. Political POSITIVE ECONOMIC IMPACT Increased Standard of Living Economic globalization gives governments of developing nations access to foreign lending.When these funds are used on infrastructure including roads, health care, education, and social services, the standard of living in the country increases. If the money is used only selectively, however, not all citizens will participate in the benefits. Access to New Markets Globalization leads to freer trade between countries. This is one of its largest benefits to developing nations. Homegrown industries see trade barriers fall and have access to a much wider international market. The growth this generates allows companies to develop new technologies and produce new products and services.Access to New and More capital Developing nations attract foreign investments resulting in better smooth consumption, deepens financial markets, and increases the degree of market discipline. In most developing nations, the financial markets are not fully developed, as such globalization is a boost to the country’s financial markets. Employment Opportunities Because the wages in developing countries is far lower than that of developed countries, work such as software development, customer support, marketing, accounting and insurance is outsourced to developing countries like India.The workers in the developing countries get employment. Access to technologies As a result of outsourcing, developing countries get access to the latest technology and technological improvements; they are thus able to use the technologies to improve the standard of living. They can also utilize these technologies in solving problems, for example advanced medicine to cure local diseases. Increased competition Due to the need to compete globally, companies have had to reduce prices, which is good for the consumer in such countries. In addition, there is improvement of goods and services accompanied by improved technology.Globalization is thus a win for consumers. NEGATIVE ECONOMIC IMPACT Widening Disparity in Incomes While an influx of foreign companies and foreign capital creates a reduction in overall unemployment and poverty, it can also increase the wage gap between those who are educated and those who are n ot. Over the longer term, education levels will rise as the financial health of developing countries rise, but in the short term, some of the poor will become poorer. Not everyone will participate in an elevation of living standards. Decreased EmploymentThe influx of foreign companies into developing countries increases employment in many sectors, especially for skilled workers. However, improvements in technology come with the new businesses and that technology spreads to domestic companies. Automation in the manufacturing and agricultural sectors lessens the need for unskilled labor and unemployment rises in those sectors. If there is no infrastructure to help the unemployed train for the globalized economy, social services in the country may become strained trying to care for the new underclass. http://smallbusiness. hron. com/effects-economic-globalization-developing-countries-3906. html Globalization for Developing Countries in Asia Backed by sound economic policies and informa tion technological advancements, the South-East Asian countries have prospered as their employment growth rate has increased tremendously. One fine example of this phenomenon is India which continues to have an economic growth rate of 8 percent or more per year. Easy access to foreign capital and increased foreign direct investment lays down the foundation for a competitive and yet, thriving market.Since the players increase in the market, the consumers not only get better products, but also at a cheaper price. Hence, another benefit is low inflation rate which helps the country to have a stabilized economy. Poverty has reduced in the Asian countries which have adopted liberalized economic policies. Companies from other countries bring their products with their technologies. Newer technologies in IT, production and research cut down the production cost, and increase sales. Moreover, they also sharpen the skills of the local labor force. Globalization in AfricaAfrica is a huge contin ent with many countries which are downtrodden and poor mostly sustaining life on agriculture and aquaculture. Not only that, there are regions which are torn apart by war and violence, and hence steady income from a stable employment would work as a respite from the in-fighting. Education plays a major role in the development of any nation and is one of the important drawbacks in the growth of the African region. UNESCO believed that 48% of children in Africa were never ever enrolled in primary schools in the year 2000.This disappointing number can go down if African countries open their doors to free market policies. With significant players in the market, a major positive impact would be on the education and technological field of the African continent. More resources and FDI would be at hand because of globalization and ensure lower exchange rate of local currency. Hence, it will indirectly help boom the economy. Though, globalization is not a magic wand and cannot wipe away all of Africa's woes, but it can surely create a favorable environment for a fair and stable government.Globalization would bring any African country more closer to rest of the world and any wrongdoing on the part of a government or a faction can be monitored and curtailed. Trade treaties and co-dependence in business is fostered by globalization. It can bring about a vast change in the political, economical, and social set ups in Africa. With more money, resources and people coming to Africa, the real and the most devastating problems of these countries could grab the limelight, and relief intervention can be provided by the global community. Read more at Buzzle: http://www. buzzle. com/articles/benefits-of-globalization. html

Unit 21: Level 2 Btec Business, P1 + P2

Subject: Two different businesses in London. Procedure: I have visited da coca cola enterprise in Edmonton, Never the less I have also been to Ash’s cafe. Findings: Coca- Cola enterprise limited in Edmonton. Purpose: Framework defines what being the best means for CCE, and outlines the strategic priorities that will help us become the best so we can drive consistent, longterm, profitable growth. Strategic Priorities: Grow value of existing brands and expand our product portfolio responsibly, Transform our gotomarket model to improve efficiency and effectiveness and Attract, develop and retain a highly talented and diverse workforce.Values: Accountable: We do what we say we will do, Customerfocused: We succeed only when we exceed the expectations of our customers and Teamdriven: We win as a team, and do it the right way. Business model /ownership: The coca cola enterprise is a public limited company. Nevertheless the company sells shares to raise investment, and it is owned and controlled by the managing director and other employed staff to run the plant. The brand name of coca- cola is known globally- in most countries in the world including the United States of America and countries outside of Europe.Location of the business: The organisation of coca cola enterprise is located in Edmonton. Nevertheless it is located off the A406 which is situated off the Lee valley industrial estate. Sector of business: The sector of the coca cola enterprise is in the secondary and the tertiary sector. This is because; the factory buys raw materials from other companies such as sugar from Tate and Lyle and produces their beverages. Coca- Cola enterprise Edmonton also sells their products and offers a service to the customer in relation, to storage of the product and how best to market it.Size of the business: The size of coca cola enterprise in Edmonton is medium because, it employs approximately 226 staff, who works 9:00- 17:00 or shifts to keep the plants up run. Reta il channel: The coca cola enterprise in Edmonton is a bottling company. Nevertheless the retail channel is to allocate their products to other companies like supermarkets, warehouse, shops and other business. The appropriate of coca cola enterprise: It is a successful business and is running successful. It is appropriate because it is the only bottling factor in Edmonton. It is also suitable because it is it is on an industrial estate with other factories.

Energe policy Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Energe policy - Research Paper Example (Fox-Penner and Peter S, 2010) A huge sum of monety is required before their implementation is attained. This may lead to tax rate increament. Although the regulations may affect people in terms of employment and costs, it is implemented for the advantage of the people. This is due to the health risks caused by these energy productions and also the environment. The life of a human being is more important than the money or the living standards of people. (Fox-Penner and Peter S, 2010) People should gauge the advantages and disadvantages in order to react to the effect of energy from Obama’s administration. In this paper we will be able to see two policies which should be considered and be implemented immediately and one which is not necessary for it to be implemented. Ozone is a combination of chemical reaction which includes methane, carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides and other volatile organic compounds. The Ozone National Ambient Air Quality Standards should be implemented in order to prevent its effects to the living things both animals and plants. This is in section 109 of the clean Air Act which includes both primary and secondary standards .The primary standards are used to protect the health of the citizens while the secondary standards are used in protecting the animals, vegetation, visibility and buildings. This act thus suggests that there should be control measure implemented on sources of air pollutants like industries and vehicles among others in order to reduce the effect of air pollution to the environment. (Implementation of the Clean Air Act National Ambient Air Quality Standards, 1998) This is because there effect will lead to an increase in health complication amongst the citizens subjected to the pollutants. The result of this will include spending money in solving these issues and many people might lose their lives. This will cost the government of about $19 to $90 dollars in order to be implemented which is high but it should also be considered that its effect will be affecting everyone. The effect of the ozone will affect the ecosystem at large as most of the plants will not be able to survive and humans will immune system will decrease increasing the chances of its effect to the human system. Emission reduction strategies should be used in both the local, state tribunal agencies from the menu of control measures in order to attain the national Ambient Air Quality standards on attaining a new primary ozone standard. Coal is a major producer of electricity in America by producing 54% of electricity supplied in the market. It is also used for cement among other purposes at home. Although it is useful to the American citizen it also has effects both to the health and the environment. The use of coal ash has many effects during combustion as they affect the human health for example they cause cancer and respiratory complications. They also affect the environment as it contains toxic elements like sulfur, mercury an d fluorine among others which also affect the environment. Coal plants emit carbon dioxide which affects the climate change as it prevents the emission of heat from the Earth surface which leads to the global effect. This can be seen by the reducing level of waterways as a lot of water evaporates. The percentage of coal production is over million tons and about 78% million are disposed while the rest is sold. Coal also causes aid

The Crucible Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 1

The Crucible - Essay Example The plot involves a series of accusations about people participating in witchcraft. Reverend John Hale, an expert in witchcraft, is called from a neighboring town, to investigate the unnatural events that have recently been reported in Salem. Many people accused of witchcraft end up in court and are hanged for their supposed involvement in unnatural activities. The scenes reveal that many of those who undergo trial for involving in witchcraft are in fact innocent people accused by others for personal reasons. The Crucible features many prominent characters among them John Proctor, Abigail Williams, Mary Warren, Ann Putman, Thomas Putnam, Giles Corey, Reverend John Hale, Elizabeth Proctor, Thomas Danforth, and John Hathorne. John Proctor (Husband to Elizabeth), a humble famer, had an affaire with Abigail at the time she was working for the Proctor family as a house help. Abigail a great liar wishes to see Elizabeth dead in the belief that upon Elizabeth’s death she would be married to John (Grade Saver par. 3). In a private conversation, Abigail reveals to John Proctor that the entire witchcraft saga was a hoax. Abigail accuses Elizabeth of attempting to murder her as she feels a needle-stab while she is eating. This she does knowing fully well that Mary had made a poppet and given it to Elizabeth as a gift with a needle stuck to it. It is based on the needle and the poppet that she accuses Elizabeth. In court, Proctor denounces Abigail’s claims stating that she is a liar an d a whore. As a result of Abigail’s lies Proctor is hang, Elizabeth is imprisoned awaiting her hanging after delivering her unborn child, and Rebecca Nurse is scheduled to face the gallows. The setting of the plot is Salem, at a time when accusations of being involved in witchcraft could draw the death penalty. The author is keen enough to involve create characters with different traits so as to be able to develop a captivating plot. In the Crucible, if

Critical Success Factors For Innovation Management Research Paper

Critical Success Factors For Innovation Management - Research Paper Example Innovation is important for all organisations to improve and develop, as innovation creates a unique positioning and differentiation opportunity that can give a business more market presence. What is an innovation? Innovations are unique business practices, exclusive product offerings, or any other activity that is ground-breaking or pioneering in an industry. If an organisation does not innovate, it will not have longevity as more innovative competitors will begin to outperform a business that is complacent by doing business as usual without creating inventive strategies. This report highlights the critical success factors for innovation management. Innovation management practices Sebell and Terwilliger (2011, pp.1-3), managing partners at Creative Realities, Inc., believe there are nine distinct success factors for innovation management. These include: 1. Having a compelling case for innovation. 2. An inspired and shared vision for the future 3. A fully aligned strategic agenda for the innovation. 4. More visibility of senior management in the innovation process and operations 5. A decision-making model that builds teamwork 6. A fully sourced, multi-functional team dedicated to meeting strategic goals 7. Open-minded exploration of the marketplace drivers of innovation 8. Have a willingness to take risks and see value in absurdity. 9. A well defined, yet flexible execution process.... In this case, the business must have a case to justify sweeping product changes and determine a new market entry strategy to provide a product that brings revenue gains unique from competition. A business case is critical to coming up with a strategic plan for new innovation offerings. Having an inspired and shared vision of the future is highly important in innovation management. Fairholm (2009) describes the importance of having transformational leaders in the organisation, those who constantly iterate mission and vision, using relationship development techniques in the social environment to gain commitment and loyalty in teams. A new innovation, whether product-based or human capital-based, will often mean the business is now taking on a new direction in its market. Innovation management, in this case, means developing an organisational culture that is focused, united and dedicated to team philosophy. This often means that senior management officials must be more visible, as was i dentified by Sebell and Terwilliger (2011). In many organisational models, there is a recognition that change resistance often occurs that stems from differing principles, values or work ethics of different employees in a diverse organisation. In order to get the innovation planned, produced and ultimately launched, team philosophy is critical and this could require decentralising the organisation or creating a more socially-bonded environment for group working. In the case where an innovation is product-based, the organisation must understand the drivers of marketplace competition. For instance, a technology company that has revolutionised telephony communications would need