Monday, September 30, 2019

Economic Features of Beer Industry Essay

The beer industry is incredibly large industry that has an enormous effect on the country, contributing greatly to the society. Two of its main contributions include tax dollars and jobs. The beer industry serves the country through its taxes, jobs, and purchases from other suppliers, its contribution to agriculture and more. The market growth rate of the beer industry is perplexing which is evident through following production statistics of top brewing companies (in millions hectaliters) In 2000In 2005 1. Annheuser-Busch-1211. InBev-233. 5. 2. Heineken-742. Anneheuser-Busch-152 3. Ambev-633. SABMiller-135 4. Miller Brewing 534. Hieinken-107 5. SAB (South Africa Breweries)-435. Carlsberg-78 6. Interbrew-876. Scottish &Newcastle-52 The national market consists of few major competitors as mentioned above. After 1990’s some of the leaders started expanding abroad, using progressive consolidation and leading to a small number of global players in the industry by 2004-2007. Which created high level of competition amongst the leading brands and a fight to gain the most market share. The Scope of competitive rivalry is also one the best way to identify the economic characteristics of any industry; with the beer industry the scope entails the global geographic area over which most of the leading brewing leaders compete. Penetration in the foreign market arena is becoming a key success indicator for most of the competitors in the beer industry. Use of high-speed packaging line helps in processing thousands of cases of beer per day, and with modern computerized control, the inventory can be tracked throughout the distribution network. These inventions are setting a faster pace of technological change in the industry, where by companies are delving into extensive research, and employing highly qualified personnel in order to beat the competition. To comprehensively examine the brewing industry we must also consider the factors of social ramifications to the product, the political climate, and the arena of technological advances within the business environment of the beer industry. Over the years in order to gain economies of scale some leaders have tried to increase the size of their plants, improve packaging and introduce automated breweries, thus reflecting few of the business characteristics dominant in the industry. Grupo Modelo for example tried to expand into the American beer market by the use of competitive distribution channels. Therefore indicating an economical ripple effect experienced through the effective use of technology and distribution channels in hand.

Sunday, September 29, 2019

Decision-Making Case Study Health Care Management Essay

Stoddard County Public Health Clinic is located on Highway 25, North of Bloomfield, Missouri. The clinic provides services to infant and child; young and middle aged adults; older adults; environmental services; and group/community services. When the 2009 budget cuts were distributed among the different departments, the manager of the Young and Middle Aged Adult Department noted a 15% budget cut. This paper is a case study of how the Young and Middle Aged Adult Department Manager will decide what tools she will use to decide which clinical service should be eliminated or introduced to better serve the Medicaid population at while at the same time make a 15% cut in its budget. Clinic Services Available and StaffingThe services available for the Young and Middle Aged Adult Department includes: breast and cervical screening project, anemia screening, sexually transmitted diseases, pregnancy testing, immunizations, nutrition education, W.I.C, women’s health screenings, high risk pregnancy counseling and case management for prenatals (Stoddard County, 2008). Staffing for the department includes: Department Manager; 2 full-time LPNs to perform screenings, draw blood samples and administer immunizations; 1 full-time nutritionist for the nutrition education; and 1 RN Case Manager to manage the women’s health screenings, high risk pregnancy counseling. The clerical staff is shared among the entire clinic. The Department Manager looked at the year-to-date information for each service provided under her department with the thought of possibly eliminating a service to make up for the 15% budget cut. Upon reviewing the all statistics concerning frequency of use and after surveying all staff members within the clinic, it was determined that each service was very important to the Medicaid recipients of Stoddard County. One suggestion from a staff member was to convert one of the full-time LPN positions to a part-time position and starting a clinical volunteer program. Another position that could be changed from full-time to part-time is the Nutritionist. Statistics have shown that her services are only needed 4 hours a day instead of the full 8 hours. The volunteers would be clinically proficient and could conduct the screenings that are very popular within Stoddard County. In order for the decision to be made, the Department  Manager will need to make a decision to use a decision making analysis tool. The Informed Decisions ToolboxOne option for the department manager can use to make a decision on how to manage a 15% budget cut for her clinic, is to use The Informed Decisions Toolbox developed by Thomas G. Rundall, PhD and his associates (University Of Phoenix, 2008). The toolbox is divided into six steps to help managers make an informed decision. The six steps include: Step 1: Framing the question behind the decision; Step 2: Finding sources of information; Step 3: Assessing the accuracy of information; Step 4: Assessing the applicability of information; Step 5: Assessing the actionability of information; Step 6: Determining if the information is adequate (University Of Phoenix, 2008). Step 1: Framing the Question Behind the DecisionBefore making an informed decision, the manager must formulate a research question out of the management question. In this case study the management question is â€Å"How will the Young and Middle Aged Adult Department operate with a 15% budget cut?† The research question is â€Å"What clinical services should be eliminated or added to allow for the 15% budget cut within the Young and Middle Aged Adult Department’s and how will it affect the profitability and quality of care outcomes during the 2009 budget year within the Medicaid population?† (University Of Phoenix, 2008). Step 2: Finding Sources of InformationStep 2 of The Informed Decisions Toolbox discusses different avenues of researching the management question. These avenues include, but are not limited to: healthcare organization libraries, webmasters intranet information and in-house support systems; and the Internet. Step 2 also describes search tips that were very useful (University Of Phoenix, 2008). Step 3: Assessing the Accuracy of InformationStep 3 guides the user to asking the following questions to help ascertain whether the information is accurate: â€Å"Is the information valid and reliable? Is the information comprehensive? Am I missing important perspectives or aspects of my decision?† (University Of Phoenix, 2008). Step 4: Assessing the Applicability of InformationThis step guides the user to decide if all the information accessed was applicable to making a decision. Step 5: Assessing the Actionability of InformationStep 5 will guide the user to determine if the information collected will provide useful recommendations to be implemented, what the expected effects may be of the decision and what are the possible effects that were not expected (University Of Phoenix, 2008). Step 6: Determining if the Information is AdequateThis last step will guide the user in making the determination as to when there has been enough information gathered to make a decision (University Of Phoenix, 2008). After reviewing the information on The Informed Decisions Toolbox, the Department Manager decided this tool wasn’t useful for the type of decision that needed to be made. There are four key strategies that have been recommended for use that affects an organization when the toolbox is used:1.†Strategy One: Recognize and Respond to the Growing Demand for Accountability as a Strategic Issue† (University of Phoenix, 2008). 2.†Strategy Two: Establish Organizational Structures and Processes for Knowledge Transfer† (University of Phoenix, 2008). 3.†Strategy Three: Build a Questioning Organizational Culture† (University of Phoenix). 4.†Strategy Four: Build Organizational Research Capabilities† (University of Phoenix, 2008). By using these strategies, an organization will be able to ensure that have all the research information at hand to help them stay accountable for their  actions. It is also a way for sharing of knowledge and always questioning so as to build a stronger organization. Devil’s Advocate TechniqueDevil’s Advocate is a technique that is used in gathering the positive and the negative aspects to a decision that needs to be made (Liebler & McConnell, 2008, p. 159). In this case, the Department Manager assigned the 2 LPNs and Case Manager the task of brainstorming and writing down the negative aspects of her proposal and all the positive aspects to the proposal. Negative AspectsThere were some strong negative aspects that the team was able to verbalize during the brainstorming session. Some of the stronger comments were:1.A full-time staff member will be required to have a change of status from full-time to part-time. This could cause the staff member make the decision to resign and find a position elsewhere. This will cause the Department to incur the expense of recruiting and training a replacement. 2.Cost of recruiting and training volunteer staff to make up for the  ½ FTE position lost. 3.Loss of expertise from taking already fully training long-time employee out of the full-time position and replacing them with an inexperienced volunteer. Positive AspectsThere were some strong positive aspects that came from the brainstorming as well. Some of the stronger comments/aspects are:1.Cost savings from using volunteer services. The LPN is making an hourly wage of $17.50 per hour equates to approximately $36,400 annually. By using the volunteer for part-time, there will be a savings of $18,200 annually. 2.Cost savings for changing the dietician to part-time would be $22,500, which is half of the $45,000 annual salary paid. The total budget from previous year was $154,800. The new budged, which excludes the 15% cut is $131,580, which equates to a total $23,200 difference. If the decision was made to change the two positions to  part-time, there would be a cost savings of $40,700.00. In conclusion, the decision-making tool that best suited the Department Manager of the Young & Middle Aged Adult was the Devil’s Advocate. By allowing those who the decision was going to affect the most have a part in the decision making process ensured better understanding of budget cuts. The Informed Decisions Toolbox is an excellent tool for those decisions requiring a lot of research data; however, not best suited for this Department Manager. The final decision was made to proceed with changing 1 FTE LPN to Part-time and 1 FTE Dietician to Part-time, which will create a total budgeted savings of $40,700.00. References Liebler, J., & McConnell, C. (2008). Management Principles for Health Professional (5th ed.). Sudbury, MA: Jones and Bartlett. Stoddard Conty. (2008). Stoddard County Public Health Center. Retrieved November 30, 2008, from http://www.stoddardcountyhealth.com/ServicesAvailable.htmUniversity Of Phoenix. (2008). The informed decisions toolbox: Tools for knowledge transfer and performance improvement. Retrieved November 30, 2008, from University of Phoenix, Week Two, Resource HCS 514 – Managing in Today’s Health Care Organizations Web site.

Saturday, September 28, 2019

Does the prison exacerbate or improve the mental health of those it Essay

Does the prison exacerbate or improve the mental health of those it contains Consider with reference to contemporary data on the social backgrounds of prisoners and the inherent harms of incarceration - Essay Example Crime and criminality is as old as the history of man. The society’s way of dealing with criminals, however, has changed over the ages and varies from society to society. Crime is recognized as an integral part of the social fabric of the society. French sociologist Emile Durkheim argued that crime is normal and is necessary for society. According to Durkheim one of the benefits of crime is that it ‘establishes and clarifies the moral boundaries of a society’ (Henry & Lainer, 2001). From a historical point of view imprisonment was designed not only as a form of punishment but to separate those guilty of criminal acts from the general population. In ancient societies and in some parts of contemporary societies the guilty is locked away for life or is rewarded by death. Imprisonment, therefore, is not a new phenomenon. In ancient Egypt and as recorded in the Bible, Joseph the Hebrew slave was placed in prison by the pharaoh of the day and was ordered to work while incarcerated. Many stories are also told of prisoners in Ancient Rome and in more recent times with the persecution of Christians and other religious activists. Different methods of imprisonments have been used. In some ancient societies, for example, prisoners used to be locked up in dungeons. In modern society a considerable part of the general population is locked up in penal institutions. Worldwide there are ten million persons who are under imprisonment with the majority being in the United States, China and Russia (Maeyer, 2005). Prison reform, however, came under the microscope when the prison population increased dramatically as a result of many social changes in society. Countries enacted new bills and policies that influenced the prison system. Some of those policies fuelled the increase of the prison population. Sentencing reforms in the United States led to a great increase in the rates of incarceration (Morris & Rothman, 1998). One of the problems that contributes to the

Friday, September 27, 2019

The Portfolio Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

The Portfolio - Essay Example complaining letters, cover letters, and other forms of letters helped me distinguish between different forms of letters and the elements required for each form of letter. This knowledge will be essential when I apply for future jobs and the skills gained will be beneficial in future. Although the class covered many things that will be helpful to me in future, I feel there are some things that we should have learned writing about in the class. However, the most important of the things that would have made learning better include writing various forms of short plays that we could act during class. This way, we could achieve a lot us a class in terms of learning about the differences in culture and we would have a chance of improving on the quality of our writing. By exchanging the scripts that we will have written, our classmates can correct grammatical mistakes and styles of writing in our work. Consequently, this approach will not only help us gain self-confidence, but it will also help us in improving out proficiency in

Thursday, September 26, 2019

W6Distributed Knowledge Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

W6Distributed Knowledge - Essay Example With the help of new advancements and movements in communication technology and IT, specialists from everywhere in the world are able to work together as a team. This kind of teamwork is growing at the present. Despite the fact that, new studies on distant and distributed team association have exposed that functioning in these locations brings a challenge to the joint building of novel knowledge. The fundamentals for bringing bright awareness are the similar as in face-to-face location. One precondition for generatinng new information is that to exchange information and distinguish what others are articulating, distributed team associates have to create various postulations regarding what other group members carry out as well as do not identify (Piritta Leinonen, 2008). In addition to judgment of others information, to arrive at the wide-ranging objectives of the team, team associates have to as well assess the knowledge that is previously communal and realized which subjects needed additional development in order to attain conclusions in their mutual assignment. Despite the fact that, in distributed team circumstances it is complicated to review what is familiar or common knowledge. As well as, inside studies on cognitive objectives and self-regulation, opinions have been obtainable regarding how persons strivings to estimate others and common perception that rely upon ones motivational state and cognitive abilities. Like that evaluation tendency, as well as consequently there might be variation in individuals assessments of others and shared information in collaboration also (Lori Rockett, 1998). Data and Knowledge transfer is a course of action in which one person, group or organization recognizes as well as learns detailed knowledge that exists in to another person, group or organization, and reapplies this

Wednesday, September 25, 2019

A critical examination of the relationship between entrepreneurial Dissertation

A critical examination of the relationship between entrepreneurial succession and knowledge development in Italian family businesses - Dissertation Example The study aims to ascertain which factors are significantly correlated with succession effectiveness from Italian business owners’ perspective; and to determine which knowledge management factors are significantly correlated with succession effectiveness from Italian business successors’ perspective. Through a convenience sample of 29 family-owned Italian businesses, the study found that all of the subscales in Pyromalis et al’s (2006) framework have been agreed upon by the owners of family-owned Italian businesses. These include their willingness to step aside in favour of their successors; the successors’ perceived willingness to take over; positive family relations and communication have received agreement from the owners; succession planning; and successor’s appropriateness and preparation. The factors which are significantly correlated with the effectiveness of the succession effort from the point of view of owners were ascertained, and these t urned out to be successor’s willingness to take over; positive family relations and communication; succession planning; and successor’s appropriateness and preparation. In addition, all of the subscales of Krueger & Day (2010) were agreed upon by the respondents and these include perception and creativity; intention; key beliefs and attitudes or self-efficacy; deeper beliefs and knowledge structures; entrepreneurial learning; and context matters. Finally, the following facets of knowledge management are significantly and positively correlated with perceived effectiveness of the succession effort:... positive family relations and communication have received agreement from the owners; succession planning; and successor’s appropriateness and preparation. The factors which are significantly correlated with the effectiveness of the succession effort from the point of view of owners were ascertained, and these turned out to be successor’s willingness to take over; positive family relations and communication; succession planning; and successor’s appropriateness and preparation. In addition, all of the subscales of Krueger & Day (2010) were agreed upon by the respondents and these include perception and creativity; intention; key beliefs and attitudes or self-efficacy; deeper beliefs and knowledge structures; entrepreneurial learning; and context matters. Finally, the following facets of knowledge management are significantly and positively correlated with perceived effectiveness of the succession effort: Key beliefs and attitudes or self-efficacy; entrepreneurial l earning; context matters; and deeper beliefs and knowledge structures. Recommendations on further improving the succession efforts at Italian family-owned businesses have been put forth. CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION Background In this chapter, the researcher shall present basic information on the concept of succession (especially in Italian families) and how knowledge is developed within each generation to keep the business afloat through the generations. In Italy, the majority of businesses that keep the country’s economy afloat are small businesses and most of these are â€Å"family-owned.† (ISTAT, 1996). Studies on Italian families have also shown that family members tend to â€Å"diffuse† their time for their family along with other routine activities, such as running a business (Arcidiacono and Pontecorvo,

Tuesday, September 24, 2019

The Pros of Capital Punishment Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

The Pros of Capital Punishment - Research Paper Example For instance, capital punishment is virtually outlawed within the European Union. At the same time, it is aggressively defended by various domestic laws in the USA, the People’s Republic of China and even in many Islamic states (Hodgkinson and Rutherford, 1996). That is to say, the practice of capital punishment has a rather haunting history. The modes and processes of such punishment were harsher with more severe consequences on the part of the offenders in comparison to today’s practices of capital punishment. However, this paper is not going to discuss those practices. More particularly, the paper focuses on the relevance of capital punishment in the present day scenario, which is more complicated with regard to taking into consideration the global institutions and laws such as the UN, Amnesty International, and Human Rights. It is important to note that although the prohibition on the application of capital punishment has been relatively well accepted internationally, more than half the population of the world live in countries where it is still practiced. Capital punishment, to some extent, and in an effective way, has certain pros to consider, especially in the context of specific crimes. Although, the international human rights law has already gathered a faster and stronger pace in support of the implication on restricting death penalty under all circumstances. But developed countries like the United States of America still practice capital punishment with the belief that justice is the final word for crime and punishment, especially the heinous ones. The applications of capital punishment are highly controversial. The primary issue over the practice of death penalty includes the debate whether it is the best way to stop crime completely or it is a violation of human rights. As for the statistical records, developed countries like the United States of America practices the use of capital punishment

Monday, September 23, 2019

The Importance of Critical Thinking Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

The Importance of Critical Thinking - Essay Example University students should use critical thinking in their reading, research, and their writing. Critical reading forces the student to think about the author's intentions and the meaning hidden behind the words. University readings require more than simply repeating facts or plots. It requires the student to use critical thinking to "...not only understand what they have read or been shown but also to build upon that knowledge without incremental guidance" (Why Teach Critical Thinking n.d.). Critical thinking allows the reader to question the writer's thesis or examine their facts. The information gained will be built upon during a lifetime of learning. Critical thinking is mandatory when a university student is conducting research. Critical research demands that the student not only consider the source, but also the author's sources. Their own research must be viewed with a critical eye as to methodology and problematic areas. Glicken (2004, p. 43) argues that "One of the key elements of the scientific approach is a willingness to critically evaluate and test knowledge and theories". This will help eliminate errors and biases. Limitations and irregularities should be noted when reading research. Critical thinking will also help determine if the research is unbiased or if the author had an agenda.

Sunday, September 22, 2019

The reflection of 2 group work Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

The reflection of 2 group work - Essay Example The current business environment is more complicated and fueled by many things that are yet to be known. Every leader feels some pressure when it comes to generating results, building effective teams and creating a high performance environment. At the same time, most employees get tired of uncertainty and the necessity to perform better with less. It therefore causes workplace dissatisfaction. The added pressure on employees to deliver without knowing their eminent future not only tests their patience, but also that of the leaders (Bass, 2009). Patience is always a virtue and good leaders need to practice it. More so today, where everybody is getting more and more frustrated, either at work or with societal issues. Efforts to practice patience are being tested than ever before. Therefore, leaders need to do more in order to make up for followers that lost their patience along the way. Leaders need patience since they deal with people and not machines. In contrast with machines, people have so many quirks. Mostly people are reluctant when it comes to change. People will develop political affinities and alliances. People have their preferred ways of doing things, pet projects and favourite friends. It therefore takes patience to work with people effectively and accomplish the set objectives and goals. Even though some times there is a need to be impatient in order to push an agenda, a good leader needs to understand that patience is the secrete weapon behind getting things done (Hughes, 2012). The third step of leadership process is development of strategy and vision. In this step, key leaders will develop and adjust the business strategy as well as the direction the organization is taking. During this process, the vision and strategy of the organization is reviewed depending on the business realities, redefining and refocusing the strategy so that it fits competitive and marketplace demands (Boonstra,

Saturday, September 21, 2019

Toyota Product Development System Essay Example for Free

Toyota Product Development System Essay Toyota’s LPDS starts with the customer who is represented by the Chief Engineer. Toyota uses the Chief Engineer’s concept paper as a guiding tool to align thinking on the planning process. They very efficiently use the Obeya (big room) to bring together the members of divergent teams and allows them to function as a unit. The teams are structured so that all of the voices that need to be heard, from the designers to the managers of the factory, who can provide input on the impact decisions will have on the workers and the final produce, are there. One of the advantages to Toyota’s process is that it allows them to retain valuable employees. Their system of â€Å"Creating a Leveled Product Development Process Flow† means that workers will not be overworked and will be able to focus their full attention on the project at hand. When the project is finished, they are provided with new challenges to help them grow. The process of innovation is woven into the fabric of the organization. Toyota supplements its processes with a culture that is finely aligned with the process. They have also developed a number of tools to serve the process such as the already mentioned Obeya, a system of checklists which until recently were kept in three ring binders, Hansei, teardowns, A3 reports which summarize problems and help to ensure alignment. All of the processes at Toyota are highly standardized, and their culture ensures that the standardization process continues. Toyota has a corporate structure that reinforces and perpetuates itself. Sakicki Toyoda learned the loom business from the ground up, and this instilled in him a belief that to be successful, one must understand all aspects of the business. He used this knowledge to build an empire and it his conviction that one must learn by doing that still guides the thinking of Toyota employees. Power is gained through merit with all engineers working their way up â€Å"through the ranks. † Unlike other automakers who hire the best and brightest out of college and immediately give them a great deal of responsibility, Toyota takes the best and brightest (discovered through a rigorous and highly selective process) and has them go through a mentoring system where they are judged at each phase of the training. It is a socialization process that produces an employee who is trained in Toyota standards and procedures. It takes many years for a newcomer to be given a large responsibility such as a Chief Engineer. Consequently, the Chief Engineer is imbued with respect, as the entire organization knows that person has obtained the rank through perseverance, hard work, accomplishment and a deep understanding of the â€Å"Toyota Way. † Toyota is fiercely loyal to its employees, retaining them even in times of economic downturn. Even employees who are not living up to Toyota’s exacting standards are retained, however, they are given jobs with no responsibility; a great humiliation in an environment that values achievement. This has given Toyota a reputation as an excellent employer, and jobs there are highly prized. One realizes when one takes a job at Toyota that you are a highly valued part of the family, and the success of the rest of the family rests directly with you. This surely makes new employees dig into their work with great zest and humility. By studying from the ground up, the workers are able to gain insight into the whole development process. They can see how their work literally fits into the larger structure. This harmony is further reinforced by their mantra of â€Å"Customer First. † When trade-offs are presented, the overruling concern is that of the designer, as the designer is the customer. For items that are not necessarily â€Å"Customer First† issues, Toyota has developed â€Å"trade-off curves† and decision matrices to standardize decision-making. PROCESS PRINCIPLES Anyone who has spent a long time at Toyota will have absorbed the Toyota Way. † The processes of the LPDS will be firmly engrained in minds of the employees. It is difficult to separate the â€Å"lean thinking† of Toyota employees from the LDPS. They reinforce each other. The process principles of LPDS are a manifestation of the lean thinking that is a part of Toyota’s culture. By defining the customer as the starting point of the entire LPDS process, Toyota is able to align the thinking of the entire organization. It also sets the goal of eliminating waste to greater serve the needs of the customer. Other companies have tried to adopt Toyota’s processes without success. This is due to the fact that the process is only one part of Toyota’s success, the other, and in some instances, more compelling part of the success, is Toyota’s ability to create a culture indoctrinated in that process. The culture subverts ego, and turns problems into learning opportunities. Toyota has developed the most effective â€Å"knowledge job shop† in the automotive industry. It beauty lies in its ability to bring together representatives of all facets of the production process in harmony. In thinking about Goldratt’s principle of identifying and bottlenecks, you can see that Toyota has developed a process to dramatically reduce the number of bottlenecks it will face. By using standardization of parts and platforms and bringing in the right representatives to the Obeya to discuss problems before they are built into the design, Toyota is able to smooth out the potential bottlenecks before they occur. There is a great deal of alignment between all members of the team, so one is not operating in a vacuum; trying to solve problems without seeing how your solution fits into the larger product. Toyota’s focus on a leveled product development process also helps to eliminate bottlenecks by keeping the batches of work at a manageable level, eliminating variability and keeps utilization levels constant. As mentioned before, standardization is extremely important in creating a successful innovation environment. Standardization creates a common language that fosters greater communication. It even promotes communication of best practices over time as the best practices are engrained in the process by being adopted a standards. It enhances the scheduling process by allowing anticipation in the schedule, which in turn leads to great synchronization of efforts. It allows platforms, technology and subsystems to be reused in different designs saving time and money. As a result of their standardization process, Toyota is often able to eliminate the expensive prototyping phase of vehicle development. This can be done because with so many â€Å"tried and true† components being used in consistent ways, prototyping would be redundant. Standardization is one the key element to Toyotas speed in developing new vehicles. PEOPLE PRINICPLES Toyota uses a matrix system rather than a skunk works operation to develop new vehicles, Toyota’s LPDS is fully integrated into Toyota’s structure. They assemble a cross functional team that has representatives from the full range of functions involve with design, manufacturing and sales. Unlike other cross functional teams, where there is some ambiguity as to who the employee serves, Toyota is able to get an extremely high level of productivity out of them. This is due to several factors. Toyota’s culture where employees have a high level of trust for one another and deep understanding of the process thanks to the leadership to the Chief Engineer. The Chief Engineer (CE) is the head of the development project. This position is given to a senior engineer with a proven track record as an outstanding engineer and as one who is successful in using the â€Å"Toyota Way. † Management chooses CEs based on their ability to handle challenges and then tasks them with developing a vehicle that satisfies an overarching strategic direction. The CE acts as the voice of the customer who is the main focus of the LPDS. As such, the CE articulates the overall concept for the vehicle in a concept paper. This concept paper is the guiding principle that aligns the entire team working on the project. The CE is not the direct supervisor of the engineers working on the program, however, the CE does have full responsibility for the design’s success from development through sales and the concept paper ensures accountability. Unlike the â€Å"heavyweight project managers† the CE is imbued with more authority. Even without direct supervisory responsibilities, the position of CE is highly revered within the Toyota organization and commands great respect. Many within the Toyota family strive to achieve the role of CE. In fact, it is the continual striving for excellence that has helped Toyota to develop and maintain a culture of continuous learning. When an employee starts at Toyota, they undergo a long mentoring and socialization process. The socialization process that Toyota employees go through instills them with the spirit of Kaizen, which says that there is always an opportunity to learn and that learning is ongoing. This is reinforced by Toyotas practices of Hansei (reflection). Toyota builds in time and encourages its workers to step back and reflect on the work that they are doing. Toyota’s culture that embraces problems, because problems combined with Hansei can lead to Kaizen. This gives them a huge advantage over American car companies were problems are not valued and people will often cover up problems that they are having in order to maintain their status. By not embracing their problems, the problems get compounded as they are often discovered too late. TOOLS AND TECHNOLOGY The best thinking to be used in choosing supporting technology is to think about it in terms the broader framework of your company’s people and processes. Toyota uses this thinking very effectively. At Toyota, technologies do not stand alone. On the contrary, their product development systems are all seamlessly integrated into their V-Comm system. This enables information to be passed quickly and efficiently to all team members. Toyota also adheres to a belief that technology should support your processes and not drive it. Consistency of process is valued at Toyota more highly than keeping up with the latest advancement. They chose technology to solve specific problems and do not look for a one size fits all solution. Finally, Toyota makes sure that the technological solutions are the right size for the problem rather than constantly going for the biggest and best. While Toyota uses this principled approach to technology, their tools that support successful innovation and organizational learning are not technology driven. Along with the V-Comm system mentioned earlier One of the first tools that is used is the CE’s concept paper. This paper is used to align the thinking of the product development team. It provides enough guidance that it allows the team to work in harmony, but at the same time, it gives the team enough flexibility that they are able to be creative. They also use a simple device called the A3 report, which distills problems and solutions down to their essence. It is really the process of reducing a problem to one sheet of paper that helps to hone the thinking and promote learning. However, the A3 also facilitates increased communication. They also use teardown analysis performed by the engineers who are working on the project and have a system of checklists that provide guidelines for product design. One of the most effective tools in Toyota’s arsenal is their constant and codified post-mortem process of Hansei. The standardization of Toyota’s processes allows the learning from this reflection to be captured and implemented. THREE CONCEPTS In looking at Toyota, one might say that they are an ambidextrous organization. Or one could say that they are successful because they have achieved a strong balance between the red and green quadrants of the Competing Values Framework. Much like Dell computers, Toyota’s culture looks very red on the surface. The strict adherence to checklists and standardization seem to indicate a company that is focused on control. But like Dell, the rigorous structures that the put in place are actually innovative (green). And in fact, the reason that Toyota and Dell are able to be successfully innovative is that they have these supporting structures in place. It is an interesting dichotomy to be at once extremely controlled and very innovative. However, by balancing these two aspects of the corporate culture, Toyota has gained great success. Toyota has also developed strategies that help it to avoid the â€Å"enemies of innovation†. First they use standardization to speed the innovation process to avoid lengthy development times. Second, by using tools like the concept paper, the Obeya, Hansei and standardization they are able to coordinate their efforts to a high degree. Third, they have come to grips with the risks that they are willing to take and have a high degree of trust throughout the organization. Finally, the CE truly understands the customer and has done much anthropological work to foster that understanding. KEY TAKE-AWAYS There were three main take-aways I gained from reading â€Å"The Toyota Product Development System: 1. Creating a culture that is aligned with your strategic goals is the greatest goal a manager could achieve. The Toyota LPDS works because it is engrained in the culture of the organization. The great reward for an engineer is to become a CE and lead a team in producing something that will best serve the needs of the customer. In order to become a CE, you have to demonstrate that you can work effectively within the systems of Toyota. This gives one a great incentive to work within the structure of Toyotas system. 2. Do not let technology drive your process, let your process drive technology. I was amazed to learn that a company with such advanced capabilities in development used checklist bound in three-ring binders to ensure that its processes were followed. It seems that most people, including myself, feel that newer and faster technology will lead to productivity breakthroughs. We are usually disappointed with the results. Toyota shows us that the problem is that technology without a solid process to back it up seldom works. If one can find technology that will improve a successful process, then it has great potential to have that breakthrough quality we expect. Toyota did this with their V-Comm system, which made the information previously stored in three-ring binders more accessible. 3. Structure leads to greater innovation It always seem counter-intuitive to me that by being more structured, one could be more creative. Having been trained as an artist, I often bristled at structure and standardization as I felt it stifled creativity. But Toyota’s LPDS made me realize that structure is the platform that allows innovation to happen. I then began to realize that within jazz music, there is a great deal of standardization. Jazz musicians spend years studying chord progressions, scales and modes and learning the songs that make up the jazz repertoire. They also spend years listening to other players and absorbing many of their ideas. This provides a foundation for musicians to communicate. Many people often ask me how it is that a group of jazz musicians who have never met before can come together for the first time and create great music together. It is because of the standardization of the repertoire that they are able to do that. The musicians know and understand the structure of a song and the â€Å"rules† for performing. This provides them with a common language to communicate their ideas to each other. In my own business, I see increasing our standardization preventing us from constantly reinventing the wheel. It is the best ways to promote and capture organization learning. The great challenge will be to change the culture, which I have created, from one that is adverse to structure to one that embraces it.

Friday, September 20, 2019

Different Ways To Communicate Electronically Information Technology Essay

Different Ways To Communicate Electronically Information Technology Essay Electronic communication has become a very popular means to communicate worldwide. Electronic communication is used for the transfer of different types of data and images through wire, electromagnetic, photo electronic or photo-optical system and radio. Electronic communication is so popular that many businesses and people consider it to be essential tool in our daily lives. The Potomac Knowledge Project from the Marino Institute states Electronic communications is interactive. It engages audiences in active, two-way communications; a self-selected audience, engaged and actively participating in the communications process. There are many ways to communicate electronically, each with benefits and risks related to business or personal use. It is likely that in the future, advances in technology and computer programming will enable us to communicate in ways we can only dream about today. Different Ways to Communicate Electronically Email. There are many different types of electronic communication including but not limited to: email, social media newsgroups, chat rooms, video conferencing, instant messaging, phone and fax. Email via the widely used internet is popular because people are able to write short messages, receive quick responses and include photographs or reports with formatted data quickly and efficiently. Sending information through the conventional or snail mail can be costly and time consuming. Using email for personal or professional purposes is an efficient means of communication. Social Media. Many newsgroups and chat rooms now use Facebook, MySpace and Twitter, a type of social media for communication purposes which lets the user give an instant message and receive an instant response with supporting live video images. Users are able to post messages to a particular group of people or to members of a specific club and comment instantaneously. Miscellaneous. Workplace-communication.com lists over fifty-five different types of electronic communication currently used in the workplace! Some other types of electronic communication that may not fall clearly in one of the above categories above are listed below: Fax Short-wave Radio Radio Broadcast Video Conferencing Skype Satellite Phone Texting Telephony Wikis Electronic communication has gained wide recognition, has innumerable practical applications and provides benefits for the user including quick communication, is cost effective and has easy access. The Benefits Work Related Environment. Many different types of organizations are using electronic communication facilities. Electronic communication provides the opportunity for groups of people in different geographical locations to communicate interactively through text, sound and video. Team members can work on and make contributions to the same document at the same time, engage in meetings and share information on projects. The ability to communicate and problem solve as a team increases the likelihood of an increase in productivity and customer satisfaction. In addition, many businesses are sponsoring discussion groups concerning issues related to the business (products, strategies, etc.) as a resource to offer further communication and marketing prospects. Electronic communication also enables people to work from home, called telecommuting. Working from home provides employees flexibility and saves office space, money spent on paper, printing and postal delivery. The communicated informatio n may be stored on disks, on computer hard drive files and is easily retrievable when needed. For Individual Use. For individual use electronic communication has become a way for people around the world to share pictures, graphics, conversations, and play interactive software games. People are able to communicate more economically when compared to phone or mail and are able to communicate quickly to friends and family who live a distance away. This type of communication has become a very important means of social communication. Careers in Electronic Communication. With the boom in technology and the computer industry, software services, electronic communication, programming, and security issues will provide growing opportunities for employment in the United States and worldwide. The demand for individuals and employees who are knowledgeable in the field of electronic communication will continue to increase. Working in electronic communications is a great option for those with marketable skills interested in securing employment in a fast growing field. The Risks Personal Mail is Insecure. Sending someone a personal electronic message can become a permanent record. It is easy to compromise your reputation by messaging something negative or offensive. Electronic messages are hard to stop once they have been sent and unlike paper messages they can be delivered instantaneously. Electronic messages are not secure and can be easily copied, resent or forwarded to others so you can never know for sure who will read it and form a negative opinion of you. It is also easy for someone to search all posted messages for your name as it travels through the internet; potential employers are now using this as a means to evaluate personality strengths and character when considering a potential hire. When sending a message you really have to think about whether or not you would like the public to read your message in the future. Tom Van Vleck , The Risks of Electronic Communication lists common examples of not using good judgment when sending electronic commun ication: broadcasting or posting a funny message sending or posting an angry message using sarcasm or irony criticizing others in public posting a message or sending mail late at night sending a message about a person that you wouldnt want them to see Business Mail. When communicating with a business or company using electronic mail it is important to look for a guarantee that the company will keep your information for its use only and will not sell your name or address to other companies. Users also need to be guarded when receiving emails from businesses inquiring about personal account information, credit card or billing information as business scams or identity theft have become a significant concern in electronic communication. Computer Hacking or Virus. Secondly, a big concern with electronic communication is security. Your computer can be hacked and/or infected with a computer virus. Most often when hacking a hacker is trying to access personal information for illegal purposes. A computer virus can impact the computer system and network, can erase data on the C-drive, cause the user to be unable to open files, delete files, slow down transmission speed, may replicate information and share it with others, and can alter the structure of messages which can be misunderstood. Electronic viruses can be challenging to detect and to clean off of your computer. For a business, cleaning up viruses can be costly. Conclusion In conclusion, electronic communication does present challenges in security and more recently in fraudulent actions using users personal information for illegal purposes. The use of the Internet, computer and electronic communication has become widely used for business and personal use. With the advances in computer technology and the rapid increase in different types of electronic communication, this form of interaction will continue to grow in popularity for professional and private use. ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATION INTRODUCTION DIFFERENT WAYS TO COMMUNCATE ELECTRONICALLY Email Social Media Miscellaneous THE BENEFITS Work Related For Individual Use Careers in Electronic Communication THE RISKS Personal Mail is Insecure Business Mail Computer Hacking or Virus CONCLUSION

Thursday, September 19, 2019

Effects of Overpopulation and Industrialization on the Environment Essa

Effects of Overpopulation and Industrialization on the Environment Throughout history, the world’s population has expanded in an extremely exponential fashion-- taking over three million years to achieve a one billion person benchmark, it then only took 130, 30, 15, 12, and 11 years to reach subsequent billions, respectively. (Southwick, 159) Such a massive and still increasing population, combined with the environmentally detrimental repercussions of industrialization (as a result of the need to sustain such a large population), namely pollution from fossil fuels, has begun to take a serious toll on our planet’s ecosystem. Moreover, â€Å"some scientists have calculated that an optimal human population on earth in terms of reasonable living standards is no more than 2 billion people.† (Southwick, 161) Already, we are well over this â€Å"optimal† population level at more than 6 billion people with projections of growing by another 2 to 4 billion in this century. Still, with the advent of modern technologies, primarily in the areas of medicine and agriculture, humans â€Å"have effectively increased the size of the globe over the last two centuries, in terms of the maximum population which it will support.† (Dolan, 58) Nonetheless, in spite of such stark improvements in technological efficiency and capability, the fact remains that one in five people worldwide lives malnourished and without adequate housing. Equally important, and especially pertaining to the topic at hand, is the notion that such overpopulation, in conjunction with industrialization on a global scale, has led to increased emissions of harmful pollutants, some of which can cause ozone depletion and global warming. Global warming, which will be examined shortly, is the phen... ...nmental salvation and continuity. This transition, led by developed nations, must include a commitment to the efficient research, development, and production of alternate fuel sources—those that are renewable, clean, and cost efficient (ie, hydrogen fuel). Otherwise, the uncertain long run implications of our current excessive consumption patterns may bring about the end of existence, as we know it. Sources: Dolan, Edwin G., "TANSTAAFL: The Economic Strategy for Environmental Crisis" 1974, pp. 55-72. Ponting, Clive. Chapter 13, "The Second Great Transition," St. Martins Press, NYC, 1991, pp. 288 Southwick, Charles H., "Global Ecology in Human Perspective" Oxford Univ. Press, 1996, pp. 159-182. Stanitski, C. et al (eds.), Chemistry in Context, Applying Chemistry to Society, Mcgraw-Hill, 2003 Internet 1 (http://cop5.unfccc.int/convkp/begconkp.html)

Wednesday, September 18, 2019

A Comparison of Tragedy in Hamlet, The Book of Job, and Oedipus Rex Ess

Interpretations of Tragedy in Hamlet, The Book of Job, and Oedipus Rex    For ages, man has pondered upon the roots of destiny. Is the outcome of a man's life determined by human qualities and failings, the meddling of a divine power, or simple fate? Shakespeare's Hamlet made the argument that tragedy is caused by human folly. The idea that divine intervention is at the root of human suffering is put forth in the Book of Job. In Sophocles' Oedipus Rex, fate is given as the root of man's suffering. Three divergent perspectives on the origins of calamity exist within the tragedies Hamlet, Job, and Oedipus Rex. Shakespeare's Hamlet enforced the idea that Human suffering is a result of human faults. Hamlet possesses extreme indecisiveness, but at times exhibits dangerous recklessness. Both contribute to his ultimate destruction. The majority of the play consisted of Hamlet deciding when, where, and how to kill Claudius, the murderer of his father. When Claudius is alone praying, Hamlet had the perfect chance to avenge his murdered father, but he decided to postpone the act. "Up, sword, and know thou a more horrid hent. / When he is drunk asleep, or in his rage" (Hamlet III.iii.88-89). If Hamlet had simply slew Claudius at that juncture, the situation would have never complicated; the story would have been over. Such innocents as Hamlet's mother, Polonius, Laertes, and Ophelia would have never met tragic ends. Although Hamlet possessed the fault of indecisiveness, at times, he exhibited a recklessness that led to suffering. When Hamlet was in his mother's room he heard a rustling behind a tapestry that he presumed was Claudius. He decided to kill the man behind the curtain without checking to make sure th... ... misfortune is a matter of fate that cannot be changed by any mortal actions. All provide a valuable insight into one of life's greatest quandaries: the root of tragedy.    Works Cited Green, Joel B., & Longman, Tremper (Eds.). Holy Bible -- The Everday Study Edition. Dallas: Word Publishing. 1996. Shakespeare, William. The New Cambridge Shakespeare: Hamlet, Prince of Denmark. Ed. Philip Edwards. Cambridge: Cambridge U P, 1985. Sophocles.   "Oedipus Rex."   An Introduction to Literature, 11th ed. Eds. Sylvan Barnet, et al.   New York: Longman, 1997.    Works Consulted Fox, Robin Lane. The Unauthorized Version: Truth and Fiction in the Bible. New York: Vintage, 1991. G. K. Chesterton, "Introduction to The Book of Job",   The Hebrew Bible In Literary Criticism, Ed. and Comp. Alex Preminger and Edward L. Greenstein, (New York: Ungar)

Tuesday, September 17, 2019

Dialogue - About a Girl :: Dialogue Conversation Essays

Dialogue - About a Girl â€Å"I’m always especially tired after 12 hours of consciousness,† Ryan stated, â€Å"but today was different.† â€Å"How’s that?† Ted asked. â€Å"I actually had an idea for a poem. Actually I probably would’ve written it as a short story,but I didn’t end up writing it because I thought it probably would’ve been a stupid story† Ted, surprised, replied, â€Å"Ryan, weren’t you just complaining the other day that your ‘well of inspiration had become a thimble of mediocrity’? Just tell me what your little poem was about, and I’ll let you know what I think about it. You oughtn’t be so hard on yourself.† â€Å"Well, you won’t be impressed, and it would’ve been a short story, not a poem.† â€Å"Get on with it, man!† Ryan cleared his throat and collected his thoughts so he could clearly explain, â€Å"The story goes like this: There’s this astrologer...or astronomer, some guy who studies space; well, this guy is looking through his telescope one day and he sees a planet, or star,or something of that sort that’s so far away and blurry he can’t be sure what it is. What he can see of it, though, he finds to be the most beautiful object in space he’s ever seen. He knows maybe this is all in his head, you know, like he subconsciously knows that he’s overdoing it because one day the observatory he was working for upgraded to a more powerful telescope, but he never zoomed in on that beautiful body even though he could. He didn’t want to find out that the thing that inspired him and occupied his creative mind was just another ball of gas or chunk of rock. "That’s basically it, except I would’ve written it with more detail and with a dramatic feel. I can see it on your face that you weren’t impressed. I told you you wouldn’t be impressed.† â€Å"Well, first thing is your story wasn’t stupid. Seriously,† Ted said in an almost patronizing voice. â€Å"Enough of that. What was it, do you think?† â€Å"Honestly, it's just starting to bother me that your story was just another of your typical whining-romantic themes. Its obvious that the star represents that

Monday, September 16, 2019

Statistic: Sampling and Research Design

Carlene Reyes 809000173 Question 2: Describe the relationship between research design and sample design Before examining both sample design and research design it is important to be clear about the role and purposes of each design. Research design is a plan for collecting and utilizing data so that desired information can be obtained with sufficient precision or so that a hypothesis can be tested properly. Every type of empirical research has a form of implicit research design.A design is a logical sequence that connects to empirical data to a study’s initial research question and ultimately it, to its conclusion. According to Adam G Bluman in his book Elementary Statistic define research design as a logical plan from getting from here to there, where here may be defined as initial questions to be answered , and there is some conclusion (answers) to these questions . Another text book has described research design as a plan that guides the investigator in the process of collec ting analyzing and interpreting observations.It is a logical method of proof that allows the researcher to draw inreferences concerning causal relations among the variables under investigations (Nachmias andNachmaias 1992 pp. 77-78). Research design can be seen as the â€Å"blue print† for your research, dealing with at least four problems what question to study, what data are relevant, what data to collect and how to analyze the results. As a result research design is more than just a work plan it is what makes social science scientific.In addition there are various forms of research design that can be broken up into both quantitative and qualitative research design. Qualitative research follows a naturalistic paradigm which is based on the idea that reality is not predetermined, but is constructed by the participants in the research (Vishnevsky and Beanlands 2004, p. 235). It aims at exploring the phenomenon in question by focusing on the individuals who experience it, assu ming that it is possible to maximize the understanding of the phenomenon by minimizing the interpersonal distance between the researcher and the participant.Qualitative research in non-experimental, with no dependent or independent variables. The idea is to understand phenomena as a whole. Qualitative research is done â€Å"in the field† and requires ongoing data collection and analysis. The data collection and methodology are flexible, and allow for modifications throughout the research process, gathering subjective data that includes thoughts and perceptions of the participants and the researchers alike.Qualitative research does not choose a representative sample of the population, but only chooses as participants those who have rich experiences in the phenomena of concern, and the sample size is rarely predetermined, because researchers include as many participants as necessary to give an understanding of the phenomena (Vishnevsky and Beanlands, 2004, p. 235). Whereas, in quantitative research the researcher aim is to determines the relationships between one thing (an independent variable) and another (a dependent or outcome variable) in a population.Quantitative research designs are either descriptive (subjects usually measured once) or experimental (subjects measured before and after a treatment). Descriptive studies are also called observational, because you observe the subjects without otherwise intervening. Descriptive research provides answers to the questions of who, what, when, where, and how for example a study measuring various attributes of salespeople, a training program, or a retailing situation.Experimental studies are also known as longitudinal or repeated measures studies, for obvious reasons. They are also referred to as interventions, because you do more than just observe the subjects. However the sample design provides information on the target and final sample sizes, strata definitions and the sample selection methodology. It†™s a relatively small subset selected from a population. Sampling design is a process of selecting a member of a unit for a study in such a way that the unit represents the larger group from which they are selected.Sampling makes possible the study of a large heterogeneous population. There are different forms of sampling design it can be classified as probability sampling and non-probability sampling. Probability sampling is a proportion and such sample is selected from the population by means of some systematic way in which every elements of the population has a chance of being included in the sample. With this research it is more complex its time consuming and more costly.Non probability sample is not a proportion of the population which there is no system in selecting the sample. The selection depends upon the situations no assurance is given that each has a chance of being included as a sample. The first form of probability sampling is Random sampling this type of sampling is one in which everyone in the population of the inquiry has an equal chance of being selected to be included in the sample. Its main advantage of this technique of sampling is that it is easy to understand and it is easy to apply too.Its disadvantage is that it is hard to use with too large a population because of the difficulty encountered in writing the names of the person involved. Another form of sample design is systematic sampling a technique of sampling in which every kth member of a list may be selected to be included. This form of sampling is called interval sampling there is a gap or interval between each selected unit in the sample. Its main advantage is that it is more convenient faster and more economical. Its disadvantage is that if the sample might become biased.Stratified sampling is another form of sampling the process of selecting randomly , samples from different strata of the population used in the study a sample obtained by dividing the population into groups, c alled strata according to the various homogeneous characteristic and then selecting members from each stratum for the sample . Its advantage is that it contributes much to the representative of the sample. Cluster sampling also called multi-stage sampling are used when the population is so big or the geographical area of the research is so large, it is therefore efficient to use.Its disadvantage is that it reduced accuracy or representativeness on the account of the fact that every stage there is a sampling error. Non probability sampling methods into two broad types are accidental and purposive. Most sampling methods are purposive in nature because we usually approach the sampling problem with a specific plan in mind. The most important distinctions among these types of sampling methods are the ones between the different types of purposive sampling approaches. In purposive sampling, researchers sample with a purpose in mind.We usually would have one or more specific predefined grou ps we are seeking. Accidental sampling is where the first set of available appropriate sample are used. To conclude research design function is to ensure evidence obtained enables us to answer the initial question as unambiguously as possible. Thus, we need to ask what kind of evidence is needed to answer these questions. Research design is thus equated with both qualitative designs whereas sample design is equated with both probability and non probability sampling. Sampling design involves taking a proportion of the population to do your research project.

Mary Shelley: Submissive Women in Writing

In the writing of Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein or, The Modern Prometheus, she creates four submissive female characters all of who are negatively affected by the hands of Victor Frankenstein. These four submissive female characters are Agatha, Safie, Elizabeth, and Justine.Each of these women is proposed as passive and nonessential. The women, Agatha, Safie, Elizabeth, and Justine, make a pathway for the creation of action for male characters. The actions that happen with/to these women negatively affect them for the purpose of teaching one of the male characters a lesson or inflicting deep emotions to the male characters.Agatha’s purpose to man in this book was teaching the monster. â€Å"The girl [Agatha] was young, and of gentle demeanour†¦she looked patient, yet sad.† (Shelley 75, 76). Agatha teaches the monster many things mostly by him observing her interactions with her blind father and studying her actions and mannerisms. â€Å"Agatha listened with r espect, her eyes sometimes filled with tears, which she endeavored to wipe away unperceived†(Shelley 80). Agatha teaches the monster about respect, sensitivity, and human relationships.Safie, a close friend of the De Lacey’s, comes on horseback to the cottage. Safie is Arabian and doesn’t know or understand english, so the De Lacey’s give her lessons. Safie’s lessons in language and culture become the monster’s lessons as well. â€Å"My days were spent in close attention†¦ I improved more rapidly than the Arabian†¦I comprehended and could imitate almost every word that was spoken†¦ I also learned the science of letters†(Shelley 85). Safie is another passive female character that caused action by the monster. To the audience it is insignificant weather or not Safie learns english, but it is furthering the monster’s education. Thus it was for the sake of teaching a male character a lesson and of no real benefit to t he female character.Justine is one of the most passive, submissive female characters and hardly even has a voice in the novel. Justine is ultimately framed for the murder of William Frankenstein, yet she remains collected and serene. Justine  handles herself with poise even with her unfortunate circumstances.â€Å"God knows how entirely I am innocent†¦ I rest my innocence on a plain and simple explanation of the facts which have been adduced against me†(Shelley 56). Justine’s purpose becomes clear when she is framed. She becomes static, a victim of her circumstance.Mary Shelley describes Elizabeth as submissive and tender. Elizabeth is the most influential character associated with Victor Frankenstein, causing a roller coaster of emotions. Mary Shelley writes Elizabeth’s submissiveness quite obviously when she says, â€Å"she presented Elizabeth to me as her promised gift, I [Victor], with childish seriousness, interpreted her words literally, and looked upon Elizabeth as mine†¦since till death she was to be mine only†(Shelley 19).This belittles Elizabeth and essentially makes her a victim of the monster because of her relationship with Victor. Even when the monster threatens Elizabeth, Victor doesn’t try to protect her entirely, and puts his frustration with the monster over Elizabeth. Elizabeth is belittled along with the other female characters, making them mere tools to get revenge.There is one more hidden female character, without whom, the novel would not succeed. Margret Saville is the most passive, submissive female character. There is no way to know if she even exists entirely, but her significance is one of great magnitude.Margret Saville is the reason Robert Walton writes the letters explaining what has happened and what Victor has told him, thus creating the whole story. Margret is so submissive that she doesn’t even get a voice in the novel; there is never a response from her.Mary Shelley creat ed many submissive female characters, all of whom were used, objectified, and castaway after greatly impacting man’s life. They are used as tools of revenge and decried for the works of the men who used them.

Sunday, September 15, 2019

The Importance of Protected Sex

Can you imagine having to urge to go pee 24 7, or what about gaining anywhere from 30 to 60 pounds, or even worse, contracting one of those nasty STD's we've all heard about? Well neither can I. Therefore, when abstinence is not an option, protected sex is a must. In todays world, the image of sex is portrayed everywhere. On TV, the radio, social networking sites, even school and public settings. Teenagers are constantly surrounded by sexual intensions, it’s a part of culture that is truly unavoidable. The media, portrays sex as fun and glamorous in plenty of ways, whether its movies, reality shows, or magazine ads, they never portray sex as something awful that can completely ruin your life, and give you no option but to take a turn for the worst. Teen sex in todays world, is nothing but false advertising. Most teens are not informed and educated on the risks of sex, and that is not entirely their fault. Parents tend to assume that children learn everything they need to know in school, and if they're not asking questions, that they're not even thinking about. That’s where their wrong. Most teens are timid about discussing this subject with their parents and are embarrassed to even bring it up. Studies show that teenager who can talk to their parents about uncomfortable subjects, including sex, are less likely to become sexually active at an early age. When teens turn to their peers about sex, they get sugar coated information that they have developed from the media, which leads them into thinking incredibly false things. Simply talking to your parents, discussing methods of protection, and how to obtain them could save teens lives, not to mention their reputations. Although teen pregnancy rates in Canada have declined greatly, the problem is far from solved. Pregnancy and being a mother is something much too large for any teenager to even grasp. The stress, anxiety, and toll it takes on your mind and body, is something no teen is ready for in high school. Pregnancy is an overall uncomfortable situation, consisting of sickness, weight gain, mood swings, swollen feet, constant urination, increased appetite, and much more. Not to mention, pregnant teens will most likely not want to attend school, with all the stress and sickness, school is just not where they want to be, which will eventually result in poor grades and likely failure. Raising a child, requires money, money requires a job, which most always will require education. Acquiring an education can be near impossible when you have a baby at home, your focus would be all over the place and if you didn't have a good family support system, it would be difficult to complete homework and assignments. Okay, so we have all sat through those nasty sex ed presentations, disgusted at the images of unheard of STD's. Passing up the knowledge from those presentations as something gross that would never happen to you, could be the worst mistake of your life. Teens contract STD's daily, never expecting it.. With Chlamydia becoming a pandemic in our province, it is very important to trust nobody, and use protection every single time you partake in sexual activities. Believe it or not, you can contract an STD from something so simple as kissing, gross right? Before you trust your partner, make sure you are well aware of their sexual history, and make them aware you are not willing to do anything without protection. The price teens could pay for begin sexually active far outweigh and advantages. Contracting an STD, becoming pregnant, and jeopardizing the rest of your life are only a few of the horrifying results of unprotected teen sex. Teens need to become educated and aware of all the risks, from parents or health professionals. Although the media might portray sex as something as simple and brushing your teeth, it’s a terrible trail to take. | ?

Saturday, September 14, 2019

The Alltel Pavilion Case: Strategy and Cvp Analysis

ISSUES IN ACCOUNTING EDUCATION Vol. 19, No. 4 November 2004 pp. 555–561 The ALLTEL Pavilion Case: Strategy and CVP Analysis Edward Blocher and Kung H. Chen ABSTRACT: The ALLTEL Pavilion case is intended for the undergraduate management accounting or cost accounting course and the M. B. A. management accounting course. It provides an excellent context in which to examine strategic issues in using cost volume profit (CVP) in a service business.Based on an actual entertainment pavilion, the case develops many factors unique to a service business and illustrates how pavilion management can use CVP analysis to determine which artists to attract and what kinds of contracts to have with these performers. The Pavilion has two types of customers (paying ticket holders and free ticket holders) and earns profits from three types of revenues (ticket revenues, concession revenues, and parking fees).The case requires you to identify the best strategy for different types of artists, conduct cost-volume-profit analyses, consider the strategic issues related to operating leverage and how this affects the choice of performer and contract, and assess pricing strategies. O ne day in early November, Pam Berg, Manager of the ALLTEL Pavilion, was reviewing the operating results for the year just completed in preparation for the executive board meeting the following Friday. While the year ended in the black, she was disappointed that the ALLTEL Pavilion failed to earn the budgeted profit goal.This was the second year since Ms. Berg assumed the manager’s position at the ALLTEL Pavilion. After the somewhat disappointing first year, she was determined to exceed the budgeted profit in the coming year. While not all events developed exactly as expected at the time of preparing the budget for the year, there were no major surprises during the year. Yet, the operating results are below the budgeted goal. In addition, Pam was frustrated by the lack of clear guidelines for contra ct negotiations with artists, for setting ticket prices, and in dealing with unexpected low ticket sales for certain concerts.THE ALLTEL PAVILION FOR LIVE ENTERTAINMENT The ALLTEL Pavilion in Raleigh, North Carolina (http://www. alltelpavilion. com/) is an outdoor amphitheater that provides live concerts to the public from April through October each year, hosting as many as half a million patrons a year. The seven-month season usually hosts an average of 40 concerts, and 12 year-round staff plan and manage each season. SFX Entertainment Inc. (http://sfxyes. liveonline. net/) operates the pavilion. SFX is one of the largest diversified promoters, producers, and venue operators for live entertainment events in the United States.It has 71 venues either directly owned or operated under lease or exclusive booking arrangements in 29 of the top 50 U. S. markets, including 14 amphitheaters or pavilions in 9 of the top 10 markets. Edward Blocher is a Professor at The University of North Caro lina at Chapel Hill, and Kung H. Chen is a Professor at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln. 555 556 Blocher and Chen ALLTEL Pavilion wants to be the nightlife for the Triangle (Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill, NC) and eastern North Carolina, and one of the most beautiful, technologically advanced, and successful amphitheaters in the world.It features the most modern state-of-the-art acoustics and video of any facility of its kind. In the last few years, ALLTEL Pavilion staged shows by the Dave Matthews Band, Alan Jackson, Brooks & Dunn, Toby Keith, Santana, Tim McGraw, Aerosmith, James Taylor, Jimmy Buffett, and many other national, regional, and local artists. The Pavilion claims, â€Å"There isn’t a bad seat in the house. Whether you choose to spread a blanket on our gently sloping festival lawn or select a reserved seat in our pavilion seating area, you are guaranteed a great view of the action on the stage† (ALLTEL Pavilion website).Exhibit 1 shows the stage and seating of the amphitheater. History/Development The city of Raleigh and Pace Entertainment Company of Houston, Texas jointly built the ALLTEL Pavilion in 1991. Pace Entertainment and Cellar Door Inc. of Raleigh, NC had the initial contract to manage the Pavilion. Hardee’s Food Systems, Inc. of Rocky Mount, NC, the original sponsor of the amphitheater, paid an annual fee to carry its name and logo on all signs and ads regarding the amphitheater. On February 3, 1999 ALLTEL Corp (http://tel. com) became the title sponsor for the amphitheater.The demand for the outdoor facility came about because the rapidly growing city of Raleigh lacked a major entertainment complex. In the late 1980s Pace Entertainment and the city of Raleigh came to an agreement to build the facility. The city of Raleigh would own the land while Pace Entertainment would own the facility and assume sole operations of the facility; Cellar Door would do the booking for all the concerts. Pace Entertainment would pay income taxes on earnings from the use of the facility. In 1998, SFX Entertainment Inc. acquired Pace Entertainment Inc.The amphitheater facility and its employees became part of SFX Entertainment Inc. Also, in 1999 SFX Entertainment Inc. acquired Cellar Door Inc. and merged with Clear Channel Communications Inc. , one of the largest owners of radio stations in the country. This move brought together both worlds of the entertainment business. While the company has diverse holdings, the philosophy of SFX is â€Å"One Company, One Mission. † Many companies that are now owned by SFX were at one time bitter rivals in the concertpromoting business. These companies now maintain good working relationships within SFX.A key goal for SFX is for the net operating income of each of its holdings, including the ALLTEL Pavilion, to grow 5 percent each year. The Pavilion competes with the RBC Center (http://www. rbccenter. com) at North Carolina State University in Raleigh (NCSU), the De an Smith Activities Center (http://tarheelblue. ocsn. com/genrel/ 092301aad. html) at The University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill, NC (UNC), and the Verizon Wireless Amphitheater in Charlotte, NC (http://www. verizonwirelessamphitheater. com/charlotte/), among others.In contrast to the facilities at NCSU and UNC that offer only indoor events, the Pavilion offers outdoor as well as sheltered seating for its events. Marketing, Operations, and Accounting When the marketing department plans a promotion for an upcoming event, it coordinates with the sales department to see if there is a conflict in sponsorship. Marketing also coordinates with the operations department to effectively manage the activities on show days. Finally, the budget of each department (sales, marketing, and operations) is reviewed by the accounting department, which provides overall financial anagement of the project. Bringing Concerts to Reality A concert becomes reality in many steps. First, a group or perform er with an interest in performing at ALLTEL will discuss with Cellar Door, Inc. and the Pavilion the possibility of performing at Issues in Accounting Education, November 2004 The ALLTEL Pavilion Case: Strategy and CVP Analysis 557 the Pavilion, and look at the open dates. Upon reaching an agreement, Cellar Door, on behalf of the Pavilion, signs a contract with the booking agent for the performer.A time is specified for gate openings, and once the gate is opened the show is underway. The job of the staff during a concert is to make sure every customer of the ALLTEL Pavilion has a pleasant experience and that the mission of the company is clearly seen by everyone that â€Å"a concert †¦ it’s better live. † Clean Sweep Inc. of Raleigh handles the cleanup after a show. Key Business Issues Marketing has an important role in the success of the ALLTEL Pavilion, but marketing expenditures are carefully watched. For every show, the marketing budget is limited to $20,000.F or many shows it is difficult to stay within the budget, since the Pavilion serves a five-market region consisting of Raleigh-Durham, Fayetteville, Wilmington, Greensboro, and the Carolina Coast. Most of the marketing budget is spent on advertising with radio, TV, and print media in the designated regions. Prior to developing advertising plans, the marketing staff analyzes ticket sales geographically over the five-market region. It is important to know the demographics of the five regions and compare them with the profile for each performer. The more ALLTEL Pavilion can know about the fans, the more they know where to spend the $20,000.SFX develops measures of performance and profitability for each advertising media, by region. This type of analysis is important to the ALLTEL Pavilion because increased ticket sales, through effective advertising, not only affect ticket revenues, but also revenues from parking, merchandise, and concessions. It is also important because of the increas ed cost of advertising. The advertising rates in the Raleigh-Durham region are comparable to the rates in Washington, D. C. The rates are up 200 percent over the last five years, while the budgets per show are only up 15 percent over this time.The cost of the performing artist has also increased dramatically. The average fee for an artist is approximately $160,000. Some artists are paid on a fixed-fee basis, while others are paid on a per capita basis. Generally, the most popular artists seek a per capita contract because they are confident of a high level of attendance. In contrast, the artist paid a fixed-fee is guaranteed the same fee whether 100 or 20,000 people attend (the capacity of the Pavilion is approximately 20,000 attendance). On average, the total number of paid tickets per fixed-fee concert is 7,000.The role of marketing and advertising is especially important for fixed-fee shows. One method the Pavilion uses in addition to advertising is to distribute â€Å"comp† tickets (comp tickets are free tickets distributed throughout the community) to build interest in the Pavilion that will later be realized in paying customers. Comp customers also bring in revenue for parking, concessions, and merchandise sales. In a fixed-fee concert, the number of comp tickets is approximately 25 percent of the number of paying tickets, while a per capita show has no more than 2. 5 percent.Because of the increasing cost of the performing artists, ALLTEL Pavilion tries to reduce nonartist costs. Nonartist costs at ALLTEL Pavilion include expenses for sales, marketing, parking, security, concessions, and merchandise. Since assuming the manager position, Pam has developed several avenues to reduce nonartist costs and/or increase revenues and profits, including reducing expenses, having the parking service pass out flyers for upcoming events, trading â€Å"comp† tickets for online spots in the radio industry, and giving local businesses tickets in exchange f or advertising on their premises.Revenues, Costs, and Flash Report for the KFBS Allstars Concert Exhibit 2 is a mock flash report for an illustrative fixed-fee show, the KFBS Allstars. A flash report is a projection of costs and revenues for a scheduled concert. The guarantee/talent cost ($160,635) is the amount the KFBS Allstars are guaranteed for the show. Projected sales is the number of projected paying ticket holders, while the â€Å"drop count† is total attendance, including both Issues in Accounting Education, November 2004 558 Blocher and Chen paid and comp tickets.Setting ticket price is often done together with the performer, taking into consideration SFX’s national and regional pricing policies, prices of comparable venues, and the Pavilion’s desired profit for the concert. Pam uses the flash report to plan potential concerts and to evaluate the success of concerts already presented. The report shows the variety of revenues and costs for a concert, an d the projected profit for the concert. The flash report projects total revenues including ticket sales, parking, food, and merchandise based on per capita (drop count) rates.Ticket sales are in four ticket categories: A seats and B seats are regular price tickets for the reserved and lawn seating sections respectively; C and D seats are promotional (discount) price tickets for reserved and lawn seating, respectively. Other revenues include per capita facility charges paid by the sponsoring corporation for naming rights (based on paid ticket holders) and a per capita service charge paid by the performer for food, transportation, and other services. Not included are the annual lease payments for VIP seats at $10,000 per year.Patrons to the VIP seats also have to pay the ticket price of A-level seats. Reserved and lawn seating areas are shown in Exhibit 1. The parking, food concession, and merchandise operations are outsourced to other service providers, so the direct costs for parkin g, merchandise and concessions are determined based on contracts with the service providers that include both a percentage (10 percent) of applicable revenues and a fixed fee. Operating expenses include an allocation of the total of fixed production and operations costs for the season, the advertising expenses for the KFBS Allstars event, and other variable expenses.These are then added to the direct costs for concessions, merchandise, parking, and insurance to determine total operating expenses. REQUIRED How would you describe the competitive strategy of the ALLTEL Pavilion? Given the firm’s strategy, what are the critical success factors for the Pavilion to achieve its goal of continuous annual growth in operating income? 2. Complete two selected cost-volume-profit analyses for the show illustrated in Exhibit 2, the KFBS Allstars: a) How many tickets must the ALLTEL Pavilion sell to break even? ) How many tickets must ALLTEL sell to earn $30,000 operating income after taxes , assuming a 40 percent tax rate? 3. What should be the average ticket price for the KFBS concert if the fixed-pay fee is $200,000 and the Pavilion expects to sell 7,000 tickets and wants to earn $30,000 after 40 percent in taxes? 4. Negotiating the fee for the KFBS Allstars: fixed-pay or per capita contracts? a) What is the maximum fixed fee that the Pavilion can pay the KFBS Allstars if the Pavilion wants to earn $45,000 after 40 percent tax and expects the show to have an average ticket price of $22. 12?Assume the show is expected to draw 6,000 paying ticket holders. b) What is the maximum fixed fee that the Pavilion can pay the KFBS Allstars if the Pavilion wants to earn $45,000 after 40 percent tax and expects the show to have an average ticket price of $22. 12? Assume, including 25 percent comp tickets, the show is expected to be a sell-out. c) Independent of (a) and (b), what is the maximum per capita fee that the Pavilion can pay the KFBS Allstars, whose concert is expected to be a sellout, if the Pavilion wants to earn $180,000 after 40 percent tax from an average ticket price of $22. 2 per ticket? 5. What role does CVP analysis and operating leverage play in contract negotiations with different types of performers (fixed-fee or per capita)? 1. Issues in Accounting Education, November 2004 The ALLTEL Pavilion Case: Strategy and CVP Analysis 559 EXHIBIT 1 ALLTEL Pavilion Stage and Seating The Pavilion can accommodate 20,000 fans with 7,000 reserved seats directly in front of the stage (covered seating in sections 1 through 9 and VIP seating) and another 13,000 on the spacious lawn. It has 78 theater-style VIP boxes that can accommodate 4, 6, or 8 people.In addition to positioning for prime viewing, patrons in VIP boxes also enjoy amenities such as wait staff service at their seats, personalized parking, and exclusive membership to the VIP Bar & Grill. Directly in front of sections 4, 5, 8, and 9 is seating with an elevated floor that provides excellent views of the stage for patrons with disabilities and additional seating for the hearing or visually impaired. Lawn Seating Reserved, Covered Seating Issues in Accounting Education, November 2004 560 Blocher and Chen EXHIBIT 2 Flash Report for the KFBS Allstars ConcertARTIST NAME ACTIVITY/EVENT NUMBER EVENT MONTH EVENT DATE Projected Sales (Number of Seats) A Seats B Seats C Seats D Seats TOTAL Number of Seats Projected Ticket Price A Seats B Seats C Seats D Seats PROJECTED NET AFTER TAX ADMISSIONS AVG TIX PRICE NET OF TAX PER PAYING PATRON TALENT % GUARANTEE/TALENT COSTS NUMBER OF PERFORMANCES DROP COUNT (includes comp tickets) Other Ticket-Related Revenue FACILITY CHARGE Per capita SERVICE CHARGE Per capita REVENUE FROM TICKETING Per capita ANCILLARY REVENUES PARKING Per capita FOOD CONCESSION Per capita MERCHANDISE Per capita RENTALS REVENUE FROM ANCILLARIES Per capita TOTAL REVENUE Per capita The KFBS Allstars 10310001 7 7/31/04 2,778 2,845 1,747 881 8,251 $36. 29 $22. 22 $11. 3 1 $ 4. 92 $182,479 $22. 12 88. 03% $160,635 1 10,349 $24,010 $2. 91 $16,172 $1. 96 $222,673 $26. 99 $19,767 $1. 91 $79,273 $7. 66 $36,428 $3. 52 $0. 00 $135,468 $13. 09 $358,141 $34. 61 (continued on next page) Issues in Accounting Education, November 2004 The ALLTEL Pavilion Case: Strategy and CVP Analysis 561EXHIBIT 2 (continued) Other Direct Costs PARKING CONTRACT CONCESSION CONTRACT MERCHANDISE CONTRACT TOTAL DIRECT COSTS Per capita PERCENT OF SALES TOTAL REVENUE (from above) TOTAL DIRECT COSTS (from above) GROSS PROFIT Operating Expenses TOTAL PRODUCTION EXPENSE TOTAL OPERATIONS EXPENSE TOTAL OTHER VAR. EXPENSE TOTAL ADVERTISING EXPENSE TOTAL OPERATING EXP Per capita PERCENT OF SALES OPERATING INCOME Per capita PERCENT OF SALES Detail: Other Concert Variable Expense Insurance Expense per person COGS—Concession per person COGS—Merchandise Inventory per person COGS—Parking per person Other Variable Concert Expense per person TOTAL OTHER VARIABLE EXPENSE $0. 1 7 $0. 35 $1. 12 $0. 08 $0. 02 $14,323 $4,448 $43,356 $17,826 $226,265 $21. 86 63. 2% $358,141 $226,265 $131,876 $15,506 $14,991 $14,323 $20,030 $64,850 $6. 27 18. 1% $67,026 $6. 48 18. 7% Issues in Accounting Education, November 2004

Friday, September 13, 2019

Case Study Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Case Study - Research Paper Example County, Western Walsh County, Grand Forks, Pembina, Cass County and Williams among the counties and areas that have already received flood warnings from National Weather Service in 2010 (NWS Report, 2010). Indeed, the â€Å"heavy winter snowstorms in 1997 led to massive spring flooding along the Red River thereby resulting in migration and displacement of more than ten per cent (10%) citizens† in North Dakota. This not only hampered the economic growth because of a sudden seize in business activities but also disrupted the society at large. It is worthwhile to mention that the financial burden had to be absorbed by US government, which initiated the move to ensure settlement of internally displaced persons (IDPs) in North Dakota with the assistance of International welfare agencies, Non-governmental and Inter governmental organizations. Some of the examples of flood related agencies include Red Cross, The Salvation Army, FEMA, North Dakota Department of Emergency Services, National Weather Service and others etc (Edward, 2000). It must be highlighted that North Dakota has already observed severe storms and flooding in March 2009 followed by recent flooding in March and April 2010 that in turn have increased vulnerability of residents of this state. In fact, residents of affected counties and areas are left with no other option but to migrate to safer places. This paper is an attempt to highlight the impact of natural disasters specifically on Cass County of North Dakota state. The paper will then throw light over the argument that vulnerability seems to be decreasing in Cass County because the experts have measured risk of only 1.4 out 10 in this particular area. In addition, the paper will also discuss any possible economic effects of flooding on Cass County and draw conclusions after analyzing the latest available information and facts. Finally, the paper will end up with a prediction about Cass County’s vulnerability and its future that will be supported by

Thursday, September 12, 2019

Talent Management Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Talent Management - Essay Example This can only be realized by talented individuals who are use their skills to improve organizational processes. Moreover, even talented individuals can underperform if they are not fully engaged with the organizations. The only way that organizations can encourage their employees to be fully engaged is to actively engage them, develop their raw talents, encourage their progress, and support the workers in the performance of their various responsibilities. Lastly, HR Cloud systems are important because they support the development of positive corporate culture. The IBM talent management approach makes use of all these facilities (Scullion & Collings, 2011). Organizational change functions as the core aspect of all of this corporation’s solutions. This is what contributes to the organization’s meeting its objectives, while preserving its business impact in the industry and the world at large. In regards to talent analytics, IBM’s solutions make use of leading analytics with expertise that offers a holistic interpretation of the company’s present position in the market, where it needs to be, and how to the organization can shape existing talent in order to realize this goal. IBM also facilitates corporate cultural change on the basis of collaboration and employee engagement, for the purpose of enhancing employee retention and productivity by means of technology, behavioral sciences, and organizational consulting. IBM also has a functioning operation that provides vendor selection and strategy support for HR Cloud systems. More than a decade ago, skilled workforces were viewed as being a necessity for any competitive IT organization. At this time, IBM was focused on managing talent in such a way that there was no wastage of corporate resources. In 2004, the corporation came up with a software to deal with ‘Human Capital Management

Wednesday, September 11, 2019

The role of Total Quality Management Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

The role of Total Quality Management - Essay Example The origin of TQM is attributed to Dr. Edwards Deming and Walter Shewhart on statistical control techniques (SCT) that aimed at identifying and managing quality variation in production processes (Charantimath 2006). Charantimath (2006) asserts that TQM extends beyond statistical quality control to incorporate other soft elements such as need for quality employee training, teamwork, integrated processes, supplier quality, employee empowerment and proper leadership, climate of trust and open communication in the organisation. Total quality management has enabled large franchises like Starbucks and McDonalds manage variations in their product, service quality, and attain higher customer satisfaction. Total Quality Management is useful in large franchises such as Starbucks and McDonalds since TQM since customer satisfaction is the ultimate measure of quality and all customers are viewed as owners of the quality. According to Charantimath (2006), the large franchises require continuous improvement and TQM uses analytical tools and employee involvement in determining the quality innovations and improvement ideas that are critical in improving the customer satisfaction. Accordingly, TQM requires visible, consistent and enabling leadership by the management in order to sustain continuous improvement in order to attain competitive edge and overcome competition in the market (Rao 1996). TQM is essential in enhancing the corporate public image since it demonstrates the organisational commitment to delivery of high quality products to the society. The stakeholders will be aware of the initiatives that the organisation has undertaken to improve quality such as continuous improvement and addressing of the customer complaints thus leading to higher customer satisfaction and reduction of costs associated with marketing and addressing customer grievances (Charantimath 2006). TQM improves overall customer satisfaction through understanding and production of

Tuesday, September 10, 2019

Marketting Analysis of Usitrip Travel Company Essay

Marketting Analysis of Usitrip Travel Company - Essay Example a procuratorate official website to verify), has been always get the federal business bureau (BBB) certification for grade A highest reputation ratings. 1) Tourism is a growing industry (4% annually). The United States tourism market is large and the U.S. visa is one year multiple entry visa, as long as the period of validity of the visa, tourists can visit the United States for many times, it also makes the United States tourism demand to be strong. The companys target customers are high-income earners (min. $75,000 for a single person), health-conscious individuals interested in popular overseas tour. These are lawyers, bankers, executives, doctors and business owners. The major purchasers are located in urban areas within major China cities. There is fast development in the business sector and expanding interest. Additionally, more specialty markets are developing. At first, it will be hard to rival experienced suppliers, particularly the business pioneers. However, target market is an exploitable niche, and our service is differentiated. Target market individuals will have comparative activity premiums, more disposable income and less effect on cost. We will provide luxurious service with prestige value. Our prices will be out of reach for the majority of overseas travelers. Administration will be valued based upon luxury contender costs and the quality included of our advertising. Suppliers that offer offering luxury services like our own do as such at costs like not ours. We are intensely evaluated in the luxury market. Since we engage luxury and hence a littler business, volume will be restricted. Notwithstanding, we will have the capacity to accrue a higher profit margin. Abroad visit has been working for a while now. The treks have been generally welcomed, and advertising is presently critical to its proceeded with achievement and future benefit. The fundamental business need is hard adventure trips for the affluent customer. This target market