Motivation for Crusades Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Motivation for Crusades - Essay Example The Moslems themselves kept the routes open to Christians, and the Byzantine Empire safe, until 1071, when Seljuk Turks took the lands, and persecuted Christians on the way. Lost land, religious conflict, and internal pressures were the background to Western Europe's initiation of the Crusades. R.W. Southern notes that "The worsening position of the Eastern Empire, and the genuine desire of some to save it: the even more potent though secret desire of others to profit by its disintegration; the dim realization that Islam constituted athreat to Christendomsome hoped to be saved by going; others didn't care if they were damned so long as they found new fields for profit and adventure. There was something in the Crusades to appeal to everyone." (Southern, 56) The crusades were, as Riley-Smith states "A holy war fought against those perceived to be external or internal foes of Christendom for the recovery of Christian property or in defence of the church or Christian people" (Riley-Smith, 1987, xxviii). This was certainly the overt motivation for the first Crusade, as initiated by Pope Urban II in November of 1095. This Crusade had a peculiar beginning, and Riley-Smith has made extensive note of this: "Few nobles turned up, and the theatre must have been riskyeven so, his appeal for knights to liberate Jerusalem struck a chord in western society" (Riley Smith, 1995). Urban openly declared "'Dieu le veult' - 'God wills it!'" (Bishop, 105); for many hearing the religious leader of the Western World declaring God's Will, the Crusades must have seemed to be a religious duty. In considering why this speech made such an impression, it should not be forgotten that the majority of Western Europe was, by this time, Christian in name at the very le ast. Europeans had been making the arduous pilgrimage to Jerusalem for decades, and in some ways the early Crusades might be considered another form of pilgrimage. Personal penance and justification by faith were still quite strong issues of faith, and would remain so until at least the mid-fourteenth century (Flagellants during the Black Death being one example of this). Being a Crusader, not only fighting for Christ but also traveling to the Holy Land to do so, was therefore a religious duty, atonement for sin, and a Holy Quest, similar to that being written about in Early Medieval romances. In fact, it seems as though Urban did not intend to have such a dramatic effect upon the nobles of Europe: the impression is that "The pop was taken aback by the success of his proposal. No plan had been made for the prosecution of the crusade" (Bishop, 106). The organization of the First Crusade was rather like a mopping-up exercise, after the disastrous People's Crusade in 1096. Poor people such as this marched under their own steam to free Jerusalem, and rather than the idealism of the nobility, their motivations appear to be genuine religious concern for the Holy Land. It should be clear, therefore, that the overt motivation, religion, was also an emotional force for many of the participants in the first Crusades, Kings and princes, such as Richard I of England, who were not struggling to maintain a fief, were probably

Strategics for Strategic Decision Making

Strategics for Strategic Decision Making What key lessons may be learned from any comparison of these two quite different accounts of the same strategic decision? Strategic decision Chosen alternative that affects key factors which determine the success of an organizations strategy. In comparison, a tactical decision affects the day-to-day implementation of steps required to reach the goals of a strategy.  [1]   From these two accounts there are key lessons which can be learnt as far as strategic decision is concerned. Strategy flexibility. Since strategy is not written on stones, sometimes it has to undergo some changes so as to be able to match with the real market environment at particular entry moment. Sometimes one strategy only fails unless a combination of both i.e. emergent strategy as well as deliberate strategy.  [2]   Ability to turn-on customer loyalty and tastes toward a product whose image is totally spoiled. While most motorcyclists were no doubt decent people, groups of rowdies who went around on motorcycles and called themselves by such names as Hells Angels, Satans Slaves, gave motorcycling a bad image. Some steps Hondas took were re-designing of their product to match with the market needs i.e. from larger machines to smaller lightweight motorcycles. The inevitability of proper and efficient market scanning. Its possible to enter the market with a very wrong strategy due to many reasons including failure to effectively scan the market needs. At start Hondas failed to know what US market needed and unfortunately they brought a wrong product of bigger machines while Americans needed smaller ones. Difficulties in the first entry to the market are not the end of business .Difficulties can be used as crucial mirrors for re-defining the strategy to a successful one. References: CASE STUDY 2: LAURA ASHLEY Question 1: Map Laura Ashleys stakeholders using a power/interest matrix. Stakeholders are those individuals or groups who depend on the organisation to fulfil their own goals and on whom, in turn, the organisation depends.  [3]  (Johnson et al, pp.132) Laura Ashley power-interest matrix is as follows: LOW POWER HIGH LOW INTERST HIGH Harmless stakeholders: THE 11 CEOs, Media Group Business Analysts Laura Ashley Customers Chief executive of Pearson Laura Ashley and the husband Bernard Ann Iverson a new CEO in 1995 Richard Pennycook a new FD in 1997 Shareholders like Malayan United Industries (MUI) LOW INTEREST LOW POWER: This is a harmless stakeholder group which requires less attention. This group is represented by the retired CEOs e.g. The 11 CEOs over the last 14 years. Id really rather focus on driving the business forward, he says. LOW INTEREST HIGH POWER: This group is not always bad but needs to be watched because when not satisfied it turns out to be harmful to the business. Laura Ashleys Customers; Customers have very high power to the business because without customers there is no business at all. HIGH INTEREST LOW POWER: This group is crucial to the business because it contains stakeholders with interest with what is done by the business including core customers of the business products and/or services. This group is represented by Media groups: likes to know about the operations but has got less power. Business Analysts: likes to get information for analysis although they have less power. HIGH INTEREST HIGH POWER: Here you can find all key business stakeholders whose expectations and interests are always in the higher side. This group is represented by Chief executive of Pearson Laura Ashley and the husband Bernard Ann Iverson a new CEO in 1995 Richard Pennycook a new FD in 1997 Shareholders like Malayan United Industries (MUI) its chairman Dr Khoo Kay Peng, David Cook, Lauras Finance director CASE STUDY 3: THE BALANCED SCORE CARD QESTION 1: Why do you think organizations often find the Balanced Scorecard difficult to implement in practice? Definition: The balanced scorecard is a strategic planning and management system that is used extensively in business and industry, government, and nonprofit organizations worldwide to align business activities to the vision and strategy of the organization.  [4]   Among various methods for measuring business performance, scorecard seems to be superior due to its advantages over other traditional financial methods. Balanced Scorecard incorporates future variables as well as multiple measures of performance compared to other methods. There are about four perspectives under this method which are financial perspective, Customer Perspective, Internal perspective and innovation Learning perspective. The following are reasons for organizations difficulties toward implementation of a balanced score card; The main problem facing organizations on implementing a balanced scorecard is the architecture and assumptions applied especially on selecting appropriate measures and number of measures to incorporate toward improving corporate performance as can be seen in the Shell crisis concerning overstatement of its oil reserves. Research from the Hackett Group shows a very small percentage of companies with mature and good mix of financial and operational metrics in their scorecards. There are processes in setting and implementing the scorecards known as translating the vision, communication and linkage, setting targets through planning and finally getting the feedback. Failing to follow this process organization faces the difficulty of failing to translate the strategic objectives to fit with measurements incorporated in the balanced scorecard which causes confusion than serving the purpose. The persuasion I would use to convince the organization to adopt balanced scorecard is to talk about its advantages over other methods which are as follows: Multiple measures of performance: incorporates a range of variables that measure performance against a multiple set of goals. Forward Looking: incorporates variables that are indicators of future performance including profitability. References: CASE STUDY 4-FIAT Question: Post at least 4 factors, ie a Strength, a Weakness, an Opportunity and a Threat, from one or both of your SWOTs (2004 or 2008). Briefly explain your analysis. SWOT analysis is a strategic planning method used to evaluate the Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats involved in a project or in a business venture. It involves specifying the objective of the business venture or project and identifying the internal and external factors that are favorable and unfavorable to achieve that objective.  [5]   The following is the analysis using SWOT tool of a FIAT Company showing its different milestones in business within two periods of 2004 and 2008. SWOT 2004 2008 STRENGTHS Strong management team, e.g. CEO Mr. Marchione. Young and energetic personnel with strong experience. The kids are truly devoted to the cause. They are the heart of the success. Having cars with relatively lower average emissions Product innovation Fiat is the market leader in Brazilian market. WEAKNESSES Unappealing models or Odd cars which Mr. Marchione refers it as an arrogance of thinking. Limited resources. Licensing innovation to other manufacturers. A truck-making joint venture between Iveco and SAIC in China, it is weak in China, India and Russia. OPPORTUNITIES New products -Alfas immediate future i.e. the new MiTo, which is based on the Punto and has been designed to match the driving dynamics of BMWs Mini, and the 149, successor to the compact 147 hatchback. Divorce from a 5-years GM partnership and becoming an independent player. Partnership with other strong manufacturers like TATA and SAIC. THREATS Immergence of new Innovative brands in the car market by new rivals. Its five-year partnership with GM. It had not worked, for several reasons. Sharing platforms, engines and purchasing had not produced the expected economies of scale and Fiats ability to act independently. When new European Union rules on carbon-dioxide emissions come into force At the time when Marchione chipped in Fiat witnessed a clear future as can be shown through re-shuffle of very old workforce. CASE STUDY 6: THE NOVOTEL VALUE CHAIN Question 1: What are Novotels competitive advantages? competitive advantage is an advantage over competitors gained by offering consumers greater value, either by means of lower prices or by providing greater benefits and service that justifies higher prices.  [6]   Novotel Competitive advantages: Multi skilling: Multi-skilling is to develop staff as a team able to perform tasks and work as needed in a flexible manner, this would have many advantages for hotel management, especially in smoothing the need for certain types of staff at peak bottleneck periods of the day or evening. Standardized levels of its services: A system to monitor standard procedures was introduced in 1987 which became known as the 95 Bolts. This system was intended to be a template for learning whose standards was carried out by an internal team of inspectors who visited each hotel approximately twice each year. They worked as mystery shoppers in that they made reservations, arrived, stayed and departed unnoticed. Sophisticated marketing and distribution systems: Novotel operates within both the individual and corporate business and leisure markets. Novotel usually have special promotions and advertising themes done in different locations and in different countries with tailored promotions to local holidays and lifestyles. Partnership programs: Novotel linked programs strengthening relationship marketing; especially the supplier partnership programmes, linked with purchasing and learning efficiencies delivering both scale and scope economies. Staff exchanges: There was Exchange between countries, locations and type of customer mix which contributed to multi-culture is essential to getting customers. The exchange provides means for staff motivation especially in the industry whose labor turnover is critical. References: CASE STUDY 8: THE VIRGIN GROUP QUESTION 3: Does the Virgin Group, as a corporate parent, add value to its businesses? If so how? Corporate parent: Is a business which owns and controls the operations of other businesses by either possessing outright ownership or controlling a majority of the voting stock.  [7]   Virgin was founded in 1970 as a mail-order record business and developed as a private company in music publishing and retailing. However, by 2002, the group included over 200 businesses spanning three continents and including financial services, planes, trains, cinemas and music stores. The group succeeded on adding values to its businesses regardless of decentralization of decision making. How does Virgin group add values to its businesses? Standards: The group had standards which enabled the businesses to perform toward the same goals. There were performance reviews which made employees being held accountable for their performance as well as promotions from within. For example by using stock options, bonuses and profit sharing. Support services: This involves centralised support services. For example, providing HRM, marketing, financial, etc support services and human resource management systems were in place to keep people committed. Corporate development: Branson adopted his own personal style of management within units, boosting himself on effectively adding value to customers through employee involvement and taking their ideas. Managing linkages: In the early 1970s Branson spent his good time soliciting funds for the company to become solvent. References: CASE STUDY 11: RESTRUCTURING SONY Question 1: How many times did Sony restructure itself during the period covered by the case study? Restructuring is the corporate management term for the act of reorganizing the legal, ownership, operational, or other structures of a company for the purpose of making it more profitable, or better organized for its present needs.  [8]   Introduction: On 7 May 1946, Masaru Ibuka and Akio Morita (4) co-founded a company called Tokyo Tsushin Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha (Tokyo Telecommunications Engineering Corporation) with an initial capital of  ¥190, OOOin the city of Nagoya, Japan. By the 1960s, the company had established itself in Japan and changed its name to Sony Corporation. In its milestones Sony underwent several business restructuring aiming at improving the companys focus on high potential products and expediting the decision making process to make the company more responsive to changing market conditions. Restructuring of electronics business (1994): In this new structure, the regrouping of electronic businesses were adopted getting into eight divisional companies. These eight companies are the Consumer Audio Video Products Company, the Recording Media : Energy Company, the Broadcast Products Company, the Business Industrial Systems Company, the InfoCom Products Company, the Mobile Electronics Company, the Components Company, and the Semiconductor Company. Leadership by team of executives: Here the new framework required Sony to be led by a team of executives at the top management level. The Ten-Company Structure (1996): In January 1996, a new ten-company structure was announced, replacing the previous eight-company structure whereby the previous Consumer Audio Video (AV) company was split into three new companies the Display Company, the Home AV Company and the Personal AV Company. The Unified-Dispersed Management Model: In April 1999 another change was announced aiming at changes in its organizational structure. The new framework required the company to streamline its business operations to be able to exploit the internet technology opportunities. Restructuring Efforts in 2001: Once more in March 2001 Sony provided announcement about another round of organizational restructuring. This was about transforming itself into a Personal Broadband Network Solutions company by launching a wide range of broadband products and services for its customers across the world. References: CASE STUDY 12: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS Qustion 2 : How significant was Jong-Yong Yuns role in the change process? Change process It is an organizational process aimed at empowering employees to accept and embrace changes in their current business environment.  [9]   INTRODUCTION: Samsung is an Asian Electronic Company based in Suwon South Korea. The firm has experienced stiff competition from rivals such as Sony, Nokia, and Motorola on the basis of its revolutionary products. Jong-Yong Yuns role in the change process: Reorientation: This helped the firm to develop new capabilities. He recruited new capable employees such as managers and engineers, many of whom had developed considerable experience in the United States. Retrenchment: There was a layoff of a number of employees amounting 30,000, representing well over a third of its entire workforce. Reduction of number of factories. Discarding a Failing Strategy: Although the firm was making profits, Yun was concerned about the future prospects of a firm that was relying on a strategy of competing on price with products that were based .The success of this strategy was tied to the Samsungs ability to continually scout for locations that would allow it to keep its manufacturing costs down. Developing a Premium Brand: Having managed to cut down the losses, Yun planned to shift Samsung away from its strategy of competition which based mainly on the lower priced products. Consequently, he began to push the firm to develop its own products rather than to copy those that other firms had developed. Pushing for New Products: Through its new product development processes Yun struggled a lot to make it happen ensuring higher margins as compared to its rivals. Designing for the Digital Home: Yuns long term plan is to ensure Samsungs dominance in digital home technologies. He believes that his firm is in a better position to benefit from the day when all home appliances, from handheld computers to intelligent refrigerators, will be linked to each other and adapt to the personal needs of consumers. References: Case Study 10: Mantero Seta Spa: a strategy for China Question 1: Would you recommend Mantero Seta Spas entry into the Chinese market? Market growth An increase in the demand for a particular product or service over time. Market growth can be slow if consumers do not adopt a high demand or rapid if consumers find the product or service useful for the price level.  [10]   YES I would recommend Montero Seta Spas entry into the Chinese market due to the following scenarios: Market Growth: Chinese market promises for the stable growth of the fashion business as you can see In the mid 2000s, stable economic growth had brought substantial income to many groups of people, and with it a growing demand for the satisfaction of higher level needs. Also Upper-class and middle-class people became increasingly interested in their social life, and chose to spend money to better enjoy their spare time. There was a huge potential to sell luxury goods to these groups: 2 per cent of the 1.3 billion people living in China. Identifiable retail Distribution: The government of China had adopted a series of policies to propel the retail industry through a process of fundamental transformation. The move had sparked dramatic changes in Chinese retailing, with market growth reshaping purchasing habits. As a result in the mid 2000s there were many different types of retailing methods, based on different products and market strategy. Geographical Differences: The reasons for the differences were various. In northern China consumers made choices based on seasonal factors. Values and beliefs of people in north China were based on their imperial history and social traditions, with clear distinctions between different social groups and classes. The distinction was underlined in many ways, including clothing. People in the north were aware of their appearance, and wanted others to recognise their wealth and ability. In the south the climate was temperate; therefore consumers chose lighter, more comfortable and durable material for everyday wear. Marketing Communications: Communication processes in the fashion business focused on the brand image and the values embodied in the product, rather than on the product itself. Processes included photographs, shows, showrooms, models, displays, videos and sample collections. References: CASE STUDY 5: THE PROFITABILITY OF UK RETAILERS Question: Are British supermarkets more profitable than their European and US counterparts? Profitability is the ability to gain profit Profit is the positive gain from an investment or business operation after subtracting for all expenses.  [11]   Profitability = TR-TC ( TR = Total Revenue, TC = Total cost) Return on capital employed ( ROCE ) is the ratio that indicates the efficiency and profitability of company capital investments.  [12]   British supermarkets are profitable compared to US and other European countries because of the following reasons:- Cost of labor: Labor costs are lower in the UK due to lower social cost borne by employers. This reduces operation cost and makes the British firms to be more profitable. Technology: British companies have a lead in applying IT in their distributions systems with deliveries in small number of companies warehouses, the use of technology in distribution system reduce the cost of operation contributing to higher profits. Buying power: The British supermarkets have high buying power and tend to be more centralizing than some of the US and other European countries. This help them in reducing cost and also the British firm are more experienced and skillful in using their buying power to negotiate better terms or price from their supplier. Because they have dominated the market the British supermarkets impose the higher than a normal price to consumers (oligopoly power). Because the British supermarkets have high buying power and the use of oligopoly make them more profitable compared to the US and other European counterparts.

Impact on the People of Nigeria by Muslims, French and British Essay

Africans have been migrating through out the continent, including Nigeria, long before there was even written record. Because of this, there has always been an extensive amount of inter-mingling between various ethnic groups, making it difficult to actually trace back who came from where. Aside from this amalgamation, there has been a huge impact on the peoples of Nigeria by outside forces. In particular, three major groups that had a major impact were Muslim merchants from across the Sahara, British slave traders and eventual colonizers, and the French and British Christian missionaries. The combination of these three groups has had both an economic and cultural impact on Nigeria that is still present today. External penetration of Nigeria started as early as the 9th century AD when Muslim merchants from western Sudan, Maghreb, Tripolitania and Egypt started traveling across the Sahara with camel caravans in search of trade. Over the course of the next six centuries, Islam became accepted widely in the north, especially among the Hausa and Fulani, and not only as a religion. It also imposed a central government, segregated the sexes, influenced language and script, and established a hierarchical class system that was not there beforehand. Islam did not spread south because of the dense tropical forest that divides Nigeria into north and south. This also caused the two regions to â€Å"develop† at different rates because while the south was still alien to Europeans, the north was expanding culturally and economically because of its deep involvement with the trans-Sahara trade routes. The peoples of the south remained untouched by Europeans until the 1470’s when Portuguese explorers, under the inspiration and guidance of Henry the Navigator, arrived and traded spirits, cloth, guns and gunpowder for slaves. The Portuguese did not really have much of a cultural effect on the indigenous people (besides the slowly diminishing population). This is because they rarely traveled farther than the coast, if they even left the ships. Eventually the British ships were dropping anchor along Nigeria’s coast after Britain realized the extent of the profits the Portuguese were making and what they could reap from slavery. By 1712 they had established a slave monopoly along the west coast. Chiefs and African slave traders brought slaves to shipside in exchange for Eu... ...t of Nigerians resorted to migration when fighting didn’t work. It is ironic how when one country tries to take over another in a forceful manner, it is met by some form of resistance but if the country introduces itself through trade it is accepted with open arms. The Muslims did not intend to rule over anyone. They were there to make deals and trade goods. Muslim conversion was gradual and voluntary and spanned over six centuries. There is little evidence about wars between Muslims and Nigerians. Also, many Nigerians are proud to be part of the Muslim culture in the north, even if they are from the south, because of its historical tradition, distinctive architecture, useful language, Islamic faith and because it is an alternative to white European culture. The British were the ones that forcefully took people’s land and family members. They were accepted at first, but they betrayed the trust of the people and exploited them for Britain’s gain for over 400 years. Many educated Nigerians today feel that if it weren’t for the slave trade and colonialism, they would be living in a much more modern and progressive country at this time. It is no wonder that they resent the British.

Managing Customer Relations Essay

This helps them to gather customers feedback by collating the responses and discussing about them during meetings, to see if there is an alternative, or a solution to the problem. However, not all feedbacks can have a solution as there are shortages of certain resources such as manpower, turnover rate and space in shop area. Overall, Food For Thought is a successful organisation despite not having a CRM system. They are able to generate high profits every month due to loyal customers and customers who frequent that area. Company’s Background Food for Thought is a Food and Beverage Restaurant (F&B) that sells western-styled food. It started out as a cafe in North Bridge Road. After a few years of establishment, the company decided to open another outlet at a nearby location of a larger space and closed down the cafe. Currently, there are 2 outlets (Queen Street and Botanical Gardens). They sell a variety of foods including salads, pastas, pancakes, cakes and desserts. The company has 2 selling points that differentiate them from other restaurants. First, the ambience provides a good place for customers to relax and hang out with family or friends. The overall layout emits a homely touch. Using recycled items, they decorate the restaurant with 540 jars of emptied pasta sauce. Secondly, they practice societal marketing concept by giving back 10% of their yearly profit to charity organizations. Their 5 missions include ‘Give clean water, ‘Feed good food, ‘Make poverty history ‘, ‘Teach them all’ and ‘Inspire kind acts’. (Refer to appendix A) CRM Planning Process Through the interview conducted, we found out that Food for Thought have yet to implement CRM system. However, they are considering implementing it after the organization is stable. Food for Thought connects with their customers through the use of Facebook and Twitter by learning customers’ needs and wants. Their target markets are the SMU students and the people working around the area of their location. In order to increase the awareness of their organization, they place their advertisement on the SMU daily newsletter and provide promotions for the students. Food for Thought staffs focuses on creating customer’s experience in order to build relationship with the customers. The staffs recognize their loyal customers and create a personal friendship with them. Likewise for new customers, the staff will create a customer relationship as they exercise relationship marketing. CRM Implementation Process In our opinion, Food for Thought has the basic foundation for implementing CRM system as they focus on managing customer’s experience. They start out by creating a Facebook page in order to encourage feedbacks from the customers. The management then analyzes the comments before deciding appropriate measures that should be carried out. Even though Food for Thought doesn’t have a CRM system, they collect their customers’ name card and sent out emails to update them on various promotions and competitions. They initiated the use of smart-phone apps such as chope. com or hungrygowhere. com to provide customers the convenience of making a reservation online. On the other hand, they are able to track their customers’ spending and number of times of reservation made. When queried on why they have yet to implement CRM system, Mr. Pala stated that the organization will only consider implementing a proper CRM system when the organization faces the situation whereby there is a need to analyze customer’s needs and wants to an extent. Impact of CRM on Sales and Marketing Strategy Food for Thought sales strategy focuses on the need to develop solutions to meet customer’s specific needs. The management team conducts a meeting every two weeks to review on the feedbacks mentioned through email, Facebook and Twitter (as mentioned above) to analyze on the customer’s needs. They collect verbal feedback from different customers and inform them about their menu recommendations based on customer’s individual needs and preferences. While they are collecting payments from the customers, the staffs will focus on being dialogue-oriented by engaging in small talks with the customer to understand their needs better before stating the feedback of the food to the head chef. The head chef will then make alternative recipe to meet and satisfy the customer’s needs. Through the use of sales forces, Food For Thought is able to process customer information quicker to meet customers’ need. They focus on sales force automation by using key account management such as the POS system to tabulate monthly and yearly sales. The sales activities allow them to identify the most favorable and least favorable items, via this method; they will up-sell the most favorable item to the customer while considering removing the least favorable items. The use of social media has provided the staffs with information to identify and differentiate their customers. By using this method, the staff will then be able to create a different marketing strategy to interact and customize various offerings to suit the needs of individual customers. For example, premium seating (bar table) are provided to their loyal customers, this allows the customers to not only observe the chef’s method of cooking but also engage in small talks with the staffs. Food For Thought focuses in building relationship. They believe in gaining true loyal customers by creating strong relationships through exchanging information while engaging  in dialogues with the customer. Through this method, customer knowledge will increase and therefore strengthening the relationship with the customer. Most of the loyal customers are under the undivided loyalty. They come from the workplace located nearby and only dine at Food for Thought. Loyal customers are more profitable as they help to spread positive word-of-mouth about the organization. Food For Thought implements retentio n strategies to the customers. One of which would be by rewarding loyal customers – for example, SMU students are entitled to 5% discount. This develops effective acquisition strategies to encourage word-of-mouth referrals for the customers. Loyal customers are entitled to preferential treatment as the organization treat loyal customers like family and refer to them by their name. Outcome of CRM implementation With limited resources, Food For Thought has to identify their desirable customers. Without CRM system, it is difficult to analyze customer from the restaurant. Food For Thought is currently in the stage of developing comprehensive CRM; therefore they do not have a fixed answer of the success or failure in implementing CRM in this restaurant. The current CRM implementation process has help gain customer knowledge, customer satisfaction and help building up the relationship with the customers. As Food For Thought is a developing business, there are rooms for improvement in the CRM implementation. They measure the effectiveness of CRM program through customer feedback. Using the feedbacks provided, the management is able to know the satisfaction of customers regarding the service or food of the restaurant. Unlike other restaurant that focuses on being profit-orientated, Food For Thought is customer-orientated. This implies that customer’s experience is more important than the profit gained. Moreover, customer interaction provides a measurement for the effectiveness of program. This shows that restaurant should improve on their service to retain existing customers. The increase in customer touch point will lead to an increase in opportunity in gaining customer’s knowledge thereby creating a learning relationship between the organization and the customers. Conclusion and future plans of company’s CRM strategy We have concluded that Food for Thought is a successful organization, where  they focus on building customer relationship rather than being profit-oriented. When there is a relationship built with the customers, trust will be built, and because Food for Thought believes in being customer-oriented, they never fail to recognize their loyal customers, which in turn would make the customers feel recognized and good, therefore bringing returned business. Not only do th ey build and strengthen the relationship with their external customers, Food for Thought has also built and strengthened the relationship with their internal customers, namely their co-workers. Food for Thought has also place customer satisfaction as their upmost priority, which is also another factor whereby they are successful in retaining their existing customers or acquiring new customers. Food for Thought currently has no plans to implement CRM yet as it is still a small organization. However, according to Mr. Pala, he has claimed that when the time comes when the organization faces the situation whereby there is a need to analyze customer’s needs and wants to an extent, it is then they will implement CRM, for now, they want to focus more on relationship building with their customers. Lesson Learnt Food for Thought and many other organizations faces the same problem which is the lack of manpower. Such situations are unavoidable and the turnover rate is usually higher in the F&B business as most locals prefer other lines of job than F&B. One way to overcome this problem is to have some employees, mainly the supervisor, to be on standby. Another method to overcome this problem would be to implement self-service in the outlet. However, Mr. Pala has claimed that this method may hinder the process of building relationship with the customers. Being customer-oriented, they value their loyal customers by treating them as a part of their family. Through this strategy, Food for Thought is able to build customer relationship and strengthen the bond between the organization and the customers. They gain customer’s trust by providing service beyond expectation by getting close to the customers and engaging small talks with the customer, proving that they value the relationship with each individual customer. â€Å"All customers are equal, regardless of them being loyal and long-term or new,† quoted from Mr.  Pala. They practice building customer relationship through breaking the ice by engaging in small dialogues with the customers either when they order food or upon settling the bill. When queried on how each and every staff managed to practice building customer relationship, Mr. Pala replied with the answer indicating that practice comes from the inner heart. They believe that by strengthening the bonds with ever y staff and treating them like a family will naturally bring out the courage in each and every staff to build a relationship with the customers.

Arduino

ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING TECH. (EE 306) Arduino Research Date: 2013/2/16 INTRODUCTION In this brief report we will discuss a family of electronic boards called Arduino. At the beginning we shall provide an overview of the Arduino boards and what they are. After that we will tackle the board’s component and how the board works. Finally an example of one of the applications will be shown. WHAT IS AN ARDUINO? An Arduino board is simply a microcontroller board. The board is designed with the purpose of facilitating the use of electronics in projects. The use of the board was intentionally made easy so that anyone can use it.The board comes with a software called the Arduino Integrated Development Environment. The software is used to program the Arduino board to do the required operations. An Arduino board receives inputs from different sensors and responds by controlling different types of actuators. It is also worth-mentioning that the board and its software are open-source. It mea ns that anyone can do anything with the board and its software. This nature has made the Arduino boards very popular among users because everyone can innovate with the board and share their innovations.However, this nature has also allowed clones with inferior qualities to be sold under the Arduino name. COMPONENTS There are many types of Arduino boards. Some components vary from type to type, but a simple Arduino board that can be built at home have the following components: 1- An Atmel Microcontroller. 2- LEDs. 3- Resistors. 4- Capacitors. 5- Clock Crystal. 6- Switch 7- Voltage regulator. 8- Connection pins. 9- Diode. 10- Transistors. An Arduino board’s capabilities can be extended by the use of shields. Arduino shields are boards that can be mounted on the Arduino board to perform different tasks.For example the Xbee shield allows multiple Arduino boards to communicate wirelessly, the motor shield allows the Arduino board to control a DC motor. 2|P a ge HOW IT WORKS In gen eral, a code is put in the memory of the board and then processed in the microcontroller. This code interacts with inputs and outputs. Inputs can be signals coming from sensors (light, voice, heat, etc. ) or results from another processed task. After processing the inputs in the microcontroller and applying the codes from the memory, the result comes in an output form (alarm, light, etc. ).Codes are written in the memory by connecting the Arduino board to a computer. Connecting the Arduino board requires the use of an ICSP header or a USB cable such as the one found in the newer versions e. g. Arduino UNO (see figure 1). An Arduino board can be powered from a USB cable, an ACDC adapter or a battery by connecting it in the Gnd and Vin pins. Figure 1: Connect Arduino by USB EXAMPLE OF APPLICATION Blinking LED In this example, we will use the Arduino board like a timer to turn a LED on for 1 second and off for another second. 3|P a ge To do this function see the code below; / Example B linking LED const int LED = 13; void setup () { pinMode(LED, OUTPUT); } void loop() { digitalWrite(LED, HIGH); delay(1000); digitalWrite(LED, LOW); delay(1000); } The First line written after // is a comment that does not affect the program. In the second line, we define the constant attached to pin 13 as LED. After attaching the LED to the pin, we decide whether the LED should be an input or an output, in this case, we chose output. Next, we write the processing code, (digitalWrite(LED, HIGH);) this means to provide voltage to the LED, (delay(1000);) means waiting 1000ms ? s, (digitalWrite(LED, LOW);) means cutting off the voltage, (delay(1000);) the same process, which is waiting 1s. This code will be repeated in a loop. CONCLUSION An Arduino board can be a great starting point for anyone interested in microcontrollers. The board is easy to use and has a wide variety of applications. There are many tutorials available in the world web for the board due to its popularity. Although the board has many advantages, it still has its own limitations. REFERENCE [1] Arduino site, (http://arduino. cc/en/) [2] Simply Arduino, Eng. Abdullah Ali Abdullah, (http://simplyarduino. com/? page_id=5) 4|P a ge

Congress Members Who Voted Against the 2002 Iraq War

Congress Members Who Voted Against the 2002 Iraq War The directionless Iraq War has killed over 4,100 U.S. soldiers, wounded or maimed more than 200,000 more, and delivered a devastating blow to our countrys reputation and moral authority. Its time we honor the members of Congress who voted in 2002 to prevent the Bush administrations hasty rush into an unprovoked attack and occupation of Iraq. Voter Breakdown The dramatic, much-debated vote on Joint Resolution 114 was taken on Oct. 11, 2002. It passed the Senate by a vote of 77 to 23, and the House of Representatives by a vote of 296 to 133. In the end, 156 members of Congress from 36 states had enough information and personal insight and wisdom to make the correct decision for our nation and the world community. Six House Republicans and one Independent joined 126 Democratic members of the House of Representatives in voting NAY. In the Senate, 21 Democrats, one Republic, and one Independent courageously voted their consciences in 2002 against the War in Iraq. These discerning, courageous leaders are exactly what our country needs to lead us out of the present abyss in Iraq under the Bush Administration. We can trust their judgment! Voting Record This convenient list is organized by state, and features all 156 members of Congress who voted NAY to the War in Iraq, including their political affiliations. State Congress Name Party Notes Alabama Rep Earl Hilliard D retired from office Arizona Rep Ed Pastor D Arkansas Rep Vic Snyder D California Sen Barbara Boxer D California Rep Joe Baca D California Rep Xavier Becerra D California Rep Lois Capps D California Rep Gary Condit D California Rep Susan Davis D California Rep Anna Eshoo D California Rep Sam Farr D California Rep Bob Filner D California Rep Mike Honda D California Rep Barbara Lee D California Rep Zoe Lofgren D California Rep Robert Matsui D deceased California Rep Juanita Millender-McDonald D California Rep George Miller D California Rep Grace Napolitano D California Rep Nancy Pelosi D California Rep Lucille Roybal-Allard D California Rep Loretta Sanchez D California Rep Hilda Solis D California Rep Pete Stark D California Rep Mike Thompson D California Rep Maxine Waters D California Rep Diane Watson D California Rep Lynn Woolsey D Colorado Rep Diana DeGette D Colorado Rep Mark Udall D Connecticut Rep Rosa DeLauro D Connecticut Rep John Larson D Connecticut Rep James Maloney D Florida Sen Bob Graham D Florida Rep Corrine Brown D Florida Rep Alice Hastings D Florida Rep Carrie Meek D retired from office Georgia Rep John Lewis D Georgia Rep Cynthia McKinney D Hawaii Sen Daniel Akaka D Hawaii Sen Daniel Inouye D Hawaii Rep Neil Abercrombie D Illinois Sen Dick Durbin D Illinois Sen Bobby Rush D Illinois Rep Jerry Costello D Illinois Rep Danny Davis D Illinois Rep Lane Evans D Illinois Rep Luis Gutierrez D Illinois Rep Jesse Jackson Jr. D Illinois Rep Bill Lipinski D retired from office Illinois Rep Jan Schakowsky D Indiana Rep Julia Carson D Indiana Rep John Hostettler R Indiana Rep Pete Visclosky D Iowa Rep Jim Leach R Maine Rep Tom Allen D Main Rep Baldacci D Maryland Sen Barbara Mikulski D Maryland Sen Paul Sarbanes D Maryland Rep Benjamin Cardin D Maryland Rep Elijah Cummings D Maryland Rep Connie Morella D Massachusetts Sen Ted Kennedy D Massachusetts Rep Michael Capuano D Massachusetts Rep Bill Delahunt D Massachusetts Rep Barney Frank D Massachusetts Rep Jim McGovern D Massachusetts Rep Richard Neal D Massachusetts Rep John Olver D Massachusetts Rep John Tierney D Michigan Sen Carl Levin D Michigan Sen Debbie Stabenow D Michigan Rep David Bonior D Michigan Rep John Conyers Jr. D Michigan Rep John Dingell D Michigan Rep Dale Kildee D Michigan Rep Carolyn Cheeks Kilpatrick D Michigan Rep Sandy Levin D Michigan Rep Lynn Rivers D Michigan Rep Bart Stupak D Minnesota Sen Mark Dayton D Minnesota Sen Paul Wellstone D deceased Minnesota Rep Betty McCollum D Minnesota Rep Jim Oberstar D Minnesota Rep Martin Olav Sabo D Mississippi Rep Bennie Thompson D Missouri Rep William Clay Jr. D MIssouri Rep Karen McCarthy D retired from office New Jersey Sen Jon Corzine D New Jersey Rep Rush Holt D New Jersey Rep Robert Menendez D New Jersey Rep Frank Pallone Jr D New Jersey Rep Donald Payne D New Mexico Sen Jeff Bingaman D New Mexico Rep Tom Udall D New York Rep Maurice Hinchey D New York Rep Amo Houghton R New York Rep John LaFalce D New York Rep Gregory Meeks D New York Rep Jerrold Nadler D New York Rep Major Owens D New York Rep Charles Rangel D New York Rep Jose Serrano D New York Rep Louise Slaughter D New York Rep Edolphus Towns D New York Rep Nydia Velazquez D North Carolina Rep Eva Clayton D retired from office North Carolina Rep David Price D North Carolina Rep Melvin Watt D North Dakota Sen Kent Conrad D Ohio Rep Sherrod Brown D Ohio Rep Stephanie Tubbs Jones D Ohio Rep Marcy Kaptur D Ohio Rep Dennis Kucinich D Ohio Rep Thomas Sawyer D Ohio Rep Ted Strickland D Oregon Sen Ron Wyden D Oregon Rep Earl Blumenauer D Oregon Rep Peter DeFazio D Oregon Rep Darlene Hooley D Oregon Rep David Wu D Pennsylvania Rep Robert Brady D Pennsylvania Rep William Coyne D retired from office Pennsylvania Rep Mike Doyle D Pennsylvania Rep Chaka Fattah D Rhode Island Sen Lincoln Chafee D Rhode Island Sen Jack Reed D Rhode Island Rep James Langevin D South Carolina Rep Gresham Barrett R South Carolina Rep James Clyburn D Tennessee Rep John Duncan Jr R Texas Rep Lloyd Doggett D Texas Rep Charles Gonzalez D Texas Rep Ruben Hinojosa D Texas Rep Sheila Jackson-Lee D Texas Rep Eddie Bernice Johnson D Texas Rep Ron Paul R Texas Rep Silvestre Reyes D Texas Rep Ciro Rodriguez D retired from office Vermont Sen Jim Jeffords D Vermont Sen Patrick Leahy D Vermont Rep Bernie Sanders I Virginia Rep Jim Moran D Virginia Rep Bobby Scott D Washington Sen Patty Murray D Washington Rep Jay Inslee D Washington Rep Rick Larsen D Washington Rep Jim McDermott D District of Columbia Rep Brian Baird D West Virginia Sen Robert Byrd D West Virginia Rep Alan Mollohan D West Virginia Rep Nick Rahall D Wisconsin Sen Russ Feingold D Wisconsin Rep Tammy Baldwin D Wisconsin Rep Jerry Kleczka D retired from office Wisconsin Rep David Obey D

Meet the Oldest Member of the Human Family

Meet the Oldest Member of the Human Family Meet the Oldest Member of the Human FamilyIn July 2002, an international team led by French paleontologist Michel Brunet announced the discovery of a humanlike skull that may be up to seven million years old, twice as old as any others found. The previously unknown ape species, named Sahelanthropus tchadensis, was found in Chad, in central Africa. The remarkably complete skull was nicknamed "Toumai," which means, "hope of life" in the Goran language. The skull's human-like face and teeth are surprising since they come from a period when researchers believed human ancestors just began evolving. It is not known whether Toumai was bipedal or not. Brunet et al. say that it would be a not unreasonable inference that it was a habitual biped because it shares characteristics with other hominids known to be bipedal. The skull is said to be that of a male because of its surprising combination of primitive and advanced features.Location of discoveryAlong with the fact that it comes from around the time when the hominids are thought to have diverged from chimpanzees, suggests it is close to the common ancestor of humans and chimpanzees. According to the view of Bernard Wood of George Washington University, the chief significance of the Sahelanthropus find is not the issue of whether it's a human ancestor, but the clues it offers into the unsuspected diversity of ancient fossil hominids. That might be the most amazing thing about Toumai: that humans can peer into their own beginnings, and see themselves emerging from the long dark night of the forest.

Surprising Benefits of Volunteering

Surprising Benefits of Volunteering With a busy student life, it can be hard to find time to volunteer. However, if you want to boost your educational experience and learn new skills, volunteering can be a rewarding option. Sometimes even more helpful than networking events or internship, it offers plenty of surprising benefits to students. Charity work will help you reduce stress, find friends and even advance your career. Learn more about the benefits of helping others and get started! #1: Learn or Develop a New Skill It is never too late to learn something new and volunteering is a great way to develop a unique skill or discover something you are good at. Unlike internships, that usually involve repetitive tasks, you can adjust your position to meet your personal goals. No matter what type of volunteering work you do, you may be certain to gain the following skills: teamwork self-motivation planning problem-solving time management goal-setting persuasion critical thinking By volunteering, you will invest time into really useful and engaging experience. #2: Stay Physically and Mentally Healthy Volunteering is good both for your mind and body. It has a profound effect on your psychological well-being, reduces stress and anxiety, combats depression and makes you happy. You will feel yourself better in regular contact with others and experience a natural sense of accomplishment. The better you feel about yourself, a more positive view youll have on your life and future goals. Moreover, as a volunteer, youll be more physically active and fit, strengthen your bones and muscles and as a result, reduce the risk of many diseases, including heart attack and diabetes. #3: Make New Friends Volunteering provides a great opportunity to develop your social skills as you are regularly meeting with people who have the similar interests. Even if you are shy and find it difficult to make new contacts, youll have a chance to develop and practice your relationship skills. Youll meet a lot of new people, especially if you are new to the area, and will have an opportunity to strengthen your support network and make long term friends. You may be surprised at how genuine these friends are. #4: Save Money Volunteering can even help you save money. Many organizations need volunteers to help them host different events, including various performances, concerts and festivals. Devote your time and you can receive admission to events that interest you without buying the expensive tickets. Even better, you wont need to stand in the long queues and worry about getting the tickets in time! Just make sure to register in advance because most music events and theater plays usually have a long waiting list of volunteers wishing to participate. #5: Find Love That might be really surprising but volunteering can help you find love. Yes, its true. Studies show that people prefer to go on a date with another volunteer than with someone theyve met through a friend. Volunteering activities will take a lot of your time, so there are more chances to meet that special someone. Its no secret that people usually find romance at workplace, so why wouldnt you? #6: Advance Your Career Volunteering will help you get experience in your area of interest and meet people in this field. It is also an amazing way to try yourself in a new position without making a long-term commitment. You may volunteer in an organization youd like to work after graduation and gain important experience and knowledge youll need later. Most volunteering options offer extensive training, so youll have a chance to develop the skills essential for your future career and raise awareness for self-improvement and professional growth. #7: Live Longer Do you want to live longer? Studies show that volunteers have better overall health and lower mortality rate. They find it easier to manage everyday tasks and have outstanding thinking skills even when they become older. Thats why if you want to live a happy and long life, consider taking volunteer work in addition to your vitamins! #8: Understand Yourself Better Trying yourself as a volunteer is useful for developing your personality. This experience will help you to understand whether you are a people person, whether you like working with other people, whether you would like to dedicate your life to helping others, and other important things about yourself. Also, you’ll find out what skills you already have and would like to develop. #9: Give Up Bad Habits This can be surprising but volunteering help to struggle with bad habits. Thus, according to Make A Difference Day Survey, ICM Research 2004, 30% of smokers aged 18-24 claimed that they begin to smoke less due to volunteering and 22% of the same age group said that they reduced the amount of alcohol they take. How is that possible? The answer is quite simple: each addiction is developed because a person in some period of his or her life starts feeling incomplete. Volunteering helps people to fulfill their lives with meaning so that they don’t feel incomplete like they used to. Volunteering is an enjoyable and simple way to test your passions and interests. It can provide you with refreshed creativity and inspiration that can greatly help in your personal and professional life.

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

Operations Management and Tesco - Essay Example Signboards with directional arrows were found to hang from the ceiling. Commodities were segregated on the basis of different parameters, each type being found at one place. The positioning of items was so done as to optimise space and also allow easy access to the customers. An interesting feature of the store is the open space that facilitates movement of products as well as customers. The entire arrangement has been designed in a way that ensures minimum collision between people moving inside the store. Surveillance cameras are installed at strategic points that keep an eagle eye on possible shop lifters. In operations management, the 4 V's are commonly defined as volume, variety, variation and visibility. In a large supermarket like that of Tesco's, all of them could be sensed, though in varying proportion. (Slack N., et al, 2007) The supermarket offers only one service that being providing commodities to customers. However, this is not the all. The uniqueness of the super market lies in the fact that it provides a plethora of goods and other necessary items for sale. It allows the customers the freedom to shop groceries, garments, accessories, cosmetic products, beverages and toiletries all at the same place. In addition to this, customers can also enjoy free home delivery services in case their purchase bills exceed certain pre determined limits. The volume of operations is thus, very high. Continuing from the volume analysis, the variety of services that a customer receives from the supermarket is high. It also needs to be mentioned that it depends on the customer whether she would like to enjoy the whole range of services provided. For example, many people were seen to visit the garments and electronics goods section but none of them purchased from there. In the strictest sense of the term the variety is very high. The store which was visited had maximum number of customers purchasing grocery and food items. Variation in sales happens depending on the product. Generally, food items have a moderate level of demand. Garments are in high demand only in certain seasons. However, variation in sales was also experienced throughout the day. Towards the evening, there was a rise in the number of customers purchasing hard drinks, beer and fruit shakes. Visibility, as defined in theories of operation management, is very low. Customers seldom can see how the shelves are getting filled up or the source from where frozen foods are obtained. Most of the rearrangement is done during the early morning or late night after the store gets closed for customers. The Layout, Flow and Use of Process Technologies In a supermarket, the layout and flow of various products are of paramount importance. It has to be borne in mind that placing of the products plays an important role both for the customers as well as the service provider. In the visited store, the layout was more like a process layout. Items of same kind were placed at one place. Among the items of same kind, the heavier ones were placed in a manner that would make it easy for the customer to carry it. Personal items and toiletries were found to be arranged in columns, the bigger packets forming the base and the smaller ones

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

Robotics - Research Paper Example Plurality of identity refers to chosen or multiple identities (Miller 2013, 2). Real identity is an aggregate of selves or identity aspects in various contexts and real identity is not subject to manipulation (Cocking 2009, 127; 135). Online identities might correspond to real identity and multiple identities are virtually possible on the same or different online platforms (Ellison 2013, 10; 14). Basically, social media enables users manipulate, diversify or distort identities for legitimate reasons such as privacy or deliberate misinformation. Cocking (2009) asserts that computer-mediated communication enables showcasing of users, entrance and contribution to interest groups and communities (123). Digital technologies have enabled modification of identity or creation of several identities (Ludovico, n.d.). Miller (2013; Ludovico, n.d.) refers to the 1993 New Yorker cartoon of a dog telling another that virtually, nobody knows it is a dog to explain virtual identities (3). The dissolution of the real life identity by technological advances results in fragmentation illustrated by multiplicity of identities and interconnections in various digital media. Private content postings results in partial representations of real life identity which is disjointed and rarely matches the original. Ludovico likens the phenomenon to opening up to strangers not likely to be met again. These online identities are unpredictable since they are constantly updated to create fictitious characters and exaggerate of real ones in identity experimentation. In pre and post web 2.0 standards, social media influenced formation of plural identities. The web 2.0 sites enable user generated content as opposed to the preexisting commercially and institutionally generated content (Vallor 2012; Pasquier 2010, 21). Vallor 2012 asserts that early use of these sites linked

Strategy Implementation of Coca-Cola Research Paper

Strategy Implementation of Coca-Cola - Research Paper Example The present study would focus on the Coca-Cola Company. It has its headquarters in Atlanta, Georgia and well developed systems, procedures and tools that align it to the structure in place to enable it cope with ever increasing competitive world. It creative and innovative culture has enabled it to keep in pace with stiff competition from their main competitor Pepsi. The company has developed a strand of valuable resources in its people and the resources that it contains that enable the multinational to serve its customers with quality and attractive products. The firm has employed a number of strategies so as to realize it objectives and visions, such as fair returns on shareholder value increase value to the community. During the 2010 annual report, it is noted that the company adopted a number of strategies. As noted in their press release, the company has continued to increase the volume of business through innovation and diversification of its products into potential markets esp ecially North America by building several brands such as Diet Coke, Fanta, Sprite, Coca-Cola Zero, vitamin water, Powerade, Minute Maid, Simply and Georgia Coffee. Business analysts provide that the company has continued to deal with volatile economic challenges in their pursuit of global business. The firm has also continued to invest in order to build solid brands of coke fuelled by marketing and promotional innovations. For instance, the ‘open happiness campaign and FIFA world cup promotional programs drove growth and increased reputation of the coke brands. Furthermore, the firm has continued to pursue sustainable developments in the environments and education funding through corporate social responsibility imitative. Structure of the organisation The firm has a well organized organic structure that consist of shorter and learner span of control that ensure timely decisions are met effectively. It has a simple matrix structure that consists of divisions led and driven by p rojects (Mintzberg, 1979; Glueck,1980; Gilbraith and Nathason,1978). The firm has a both decentralised and centralised. The corporate leaders of the company have delegated authority to a number of line and tactical managers in all their divisions around the world so that faster and timely decisions can be arrived. This translates into better quality of service delivery to their customers. Mintzberg (1979) argues that it is pertinent for a firm to centralise some certain policies, as centralising certain essential matters that deal with strategy and strategic options of the overall firm ensures that control is limited and controlled appropriately. These include product and market development. It has also centralised forms of policies and values that every stakeholder should adhere to in discharging their duties and responsibilities. Chandler (1962), Mintzberg (1979) and Glueck (1980) note that some essential matters that arise out of agency necessitate the corporate leaders to retain some authority and control to avoid misappropriation of powers for their own interest and at the expense of the firm.. This ensures uniformity in their systems, procedures and techniques so that productions techniques and tools are similar to maintain a brand name and reputation of the company. For instance, last year it was in a process of improving the quality of brands by pursuing a healthier diet campaign in the United States of America. It also instituted a number of promotional tools that boosted its sales volume and drove its global competiveness higher than 5 %(

Busi man Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Busi man - Essay Example The customers can stir the direction of the growth of an organization, and so it is up to the management and how the employees’ commitment to satisfy the customers, are being stressed and practiced that can ensure the upward direction in the progress of the company. Customer’s satisfaction is best achieved when there is conscious effort on the part of management to deliver the quality of service that the customers would expect. On the other hand, management should be well aware, that there are various kinds of customers. Naturally, they should cater only to the kind of customers who can bring about profit to the company. Those are the customers who have the capacity to pay the price of the services or products that will be made available to them and at the same time, they should look for the customers who are in need of the products that a company can provide. There are customers who go about complaining, but in reality, have no intention of letting go of their hard-ear ned money, unless they can haggle for the cheapest price. In this instance, it would be best that management is convinced that they are proud of the services that they can provide, and also best to remember that he who trims himself to suit everyone will soon whittle himself away . The most splendid achievement of all is the constant striving to surpass oneself and to be worthy of personal approval. Many times, management fails to satisfy the customers. This is where customers’ expectations come into play. The customers usually know what they desire in the services that they expect, and the perception of the quality of service that one company provides is relative, because customers differ from one another, and no matter how a company would try, it is simply impossible to please everyone. The customers would normally compare the products or services, based on

Machiavelli vs. Mohandas Gandhi-Martin Luther King Jr. on Power Essay - 1

Machiavelli vs. Mohandas Gandhi-Martin Luther King Jr. on Power - Essay Example The term ‘power’ has been explicatively the most contriving subject, a deep political discourse and a philosophical thought since generations and among great thinkers of the bygone era and even of today. What exhibits a power within a paradigm of political intrigues and among ruling elite is a question answered by philosophers with their philosophical juxtaposition to the contemporary political situation of the era. For some philosophers, the rule by force or law justifies power politics but through abiding by the moral principles. Following the ethical principles makes the ruler rightful heir to the powers he can exert. However the term ‘power’ has much more deep intensity and depth explored and applied into the consciousness of the people with great dexterity into the current political scenario. Machiavelli in his most famous treatise The Prince criticized this moral principle of authority to explain the power. For him there is no moral or ethical ground o n the basis of which legitimate or illegitimate use of power can be discussed, instead a person who is in authority has a right to command. This power position and explanation of power is contrary to the principles of Mahatma Gandhi-Martin Luther King Jr. for whom power is a means not an end in the political circle and when deep apathetic political overtures are being undertaken. The following essay will be a discussion on the Machiavelli’s concept against much lighter in intensity Mahatma Gandhi’s and Martin Luther King’s concept of power.

Michael Jordans biography as a sportsperson as well as a non-sports Essay

Michael Jordans biography as a sportsperson as well as a non-sports person - Essay Example This research will begin with the statement that born on February 17, 1963, in Brooklyn, New York, Michael Jeffrey Jordan (MJ) is one of the most famous professional basketball players not only in America but also in the world. He has played around 15 seasons in the National Basketball Association (NBA) in the 80s and 90s. Chicago Bulls and Washington Wizards were the major clubs for which MJ had displayed his basketball skills and abilities. It is believed that no other professional basketball players are as popular as MJ. MJ was instrumental in popularizing basketball not only in America but also across the world. Even though the popularity of MJ as a basketball player is unquestionable, his life is not free from controversies. It is believed that MJ was interested not only in sports activities but also in some of the other unacceptable social activities such as gambling. During the playoff season in 1993, Jordan has reported gambling in Atlanta just before one of the crucial match es of his club.   He admitted in the same year that he had lost around $57,000 in gambling. Moreover, author Richard Esquinas claimed that he had won $1.25  million from Jordan on the golf course (Anderson, 1993). In short, the weakness of Jordan towards gambling is well recorded in the history.   Apart from a great basketball player, MJ is a good businessman also. â€Å"Jordan is involved in a number of business ventures, including several restaurants".

Machiavelli vs. Mohandas Gandhi-Martin Luther King Jr. on Power Essay - 1

Machiavelli vs. Mohandas Gandhi-Martin Luther King Jr. on Power - Essay Example The term ‘power’ has been explicatively the most contriving subject, a deep political discourse and a philosophical thought since generations and among great thinkers of the bygone era and even of today. What exhibits a power within a paradigm of political intrigues and among ruling elite is a question answered by philosophers with their philosophical juxtaposition to the contemporary political situation of the era. For some philosophers, the rule by force or law justifies power politics but through abiding by the moral principles. Following the ethical principles makes the ruler rightful heir to the powers he can exert. However the term ‘power’ has much more deep intensity and depth explored and applied into the consciousness of the people with great dexterity into the current political scenario. Machiavelli in his most famous treatise The Prince criticized this moral principle of authority to explain the power. For him there is no moral or ethical ground o n the basis of which legitimate or illegitimate use of power can be discussed, instead a person who is in authority has a right to command. This power position and explanation of power is contrary to the principles of Mahatma Gandhi-Martin Luther King Jr. for whom power is a means not an end in the political circle and when deep apathetic political overtures are being undertaken. The following essay will be a discussion on the Machiavelli’s concept against much lighter in intensity Mahatma Gandhi’s and Martin Luther King’s concept of power.

Wk3 Second part of DQ Based on Dq1 AE and DQ2 ST Peer comment Assignment

Wk3 Second part of DQ Based on Dq1 AE and DQ2 ST Peer comment - Assignment Example e population over 30 years ago it is highly possible that the government would not have enjoyed the tremendous level of economic growth China has benefit from during the past three decades. A higher population would have absorbed more resources away from the whole. I believe that the world will face many more ethical dilemmas associated with genetic engineering. The Carrie Buck story is a terrifying tale since that shows that worse that society has to offer. The discrimination displayed by the courts was astonishing. There is some empirical evidence that points that vaccines may be causing autism. The incidence of autism growth was 10% last year. In South Korea a recent study revealed that 2.64% of the newborn babies have autism which is much higher than the 1% US autism incidence (Bower, 2011). I don’t think countries have a right to tell a person with autism that they cannot have a family because their diseases could be genetically spread. Mental patients have rights and should be respected by society. I agree with you that in the Burlington Northern scenario the employees were an important stakeholder group. The employees play a critical role in the success of a company since they compose the human capital of a firm. The legal status and laws that protect disable people were not applicable back in Carrie Buck’s era. Today there are many laws that protect disable people including the Disability and Equity Law of 2010. The Disability and Equity Law of 2010 provides legal rights to disable people in education, employment, access to goods, function of bodies, and in buying and renting property (Direct, 2011). I think that society has changed a lot in the last century. People have become more aware of the needs of others and the globalization movement has improved our desire to cooperate with other nations. In regards to public companies an agency that looks out for the best interest of all stakeholders groups is the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). A

Media Influence on Anorexia in Adolescent Girls

Media Influence on Anorexia in Adolescent Girls Katrina Cooper Table of Contents (Jump to) Rationale Aims and objectives Methodology Context Literature review How are adolescent girls being affected by fashion magazines and the media? Anorexia†¦Encouraged by Pro Anna website? Conclusion Bibliography Rationale A literature review is needed to analyse the reasons there is an increase in adolescent girls developing Anorexia Nervosa. A high number of girls are feeling pressured to diet to manage their weight. Social influences are affecting girls from believing the idea that women in fashion magazines, models and the media have the perfect body. This ideology can cause extreme dieting which can therefore develop into an eating disorder such as anorexia. Adolescent girls are being made to feel insecure about their bodies because of the way in which the media portrays underweight women with the image of the ideal body. Anorexia is a major concern for adolescent girls, with pressures from school, home and peers to remain at a healthy weight. It is difficult for girls to remain in control of their lives and can then lead on to extreme outcomes such as mortality or long term health problems. Aims and objectives To discuss in what ways the media influences girls into the idea of the ‘perfect body shape’. To discuss: Magazines Fashion Social media and internet access (Pro Anna website)   Methodology A literature review on the impact of social influences and the media has on adolescent girls of engaging in extreme dieting which can then lead to an eating disorder such as Anorexia Nervosa. Multiple studies agree that the media has an influence on adolescent girls. However; there is not enough research to declare social influences as the prime cause for young girls for developing anorexia. Numerous studies agree with the media being a cause for concern but research suggests that there are numerous other factors to take into consideration such as biological, developmental, behavioural and sociocultural. It is crucial to consider ethical considerations when taking part in research for a literature review to ensure all the information is accurately interpreted. If the research is not interpreted correctly it can create an unfair literature review. Context Anorexia Nervosa is a mental disorder which starts with an individual dieting and then leads on to unhealthy psychological thoughts about their bodies and weight. This can cause extreme weight loss and the irrational belief that the person is overweight. Individuals diagnosed with Anorexia have obsessive thoughts on restricting food, their calorie intake and food recipes. Studies suggest adolescents are most likely to develop an eating disorder because they struggle to deal with the developmental process that takes place just before or after puberty. Individuals concentrate on becoming thin for their own belief it will help with their personal identity. Studies have found that over the past 50 years there has been an increase in adolescent girls who have developed an eating disorder. The prevalence rate for young girls from ages 15-19 year olds who have developed anorexia nervosa has increased by 0.48%. There’s little information on the reasons adolescent girls have concerns about their weight and body issues. However, many researchers suggest the main reason is the media and the role it plays in portraying an ideal weight regarding pressures on young girls to remain thin. According to York (2012) there was an increase in people being admitted to hospital with an eating disorder. The admissions increased from 16% from the year before resulting in 2,228 in patients being treated for an eating disorder. The most major increase was from 10 to 15 year old girls, the prevalence rate increased from the year before by 69%. Similarly, it was recorded that 1 in 10 of all hospital admissions was girls aged 15 years old. How are adolescent girls being affected by fashion models and the media? Fashion models promote an unhealthy weight, The study of Katzmarzyk and Davis (1978 and 1998) studied models for two decades, results found models decreased their body weight. The study found that 70% of models were underweight, while 75% of women models were less than 85% of their ideal body weight. Similarly, Tiggemann studied 16 year old girls to find out the reasons for young girls concerns on weight and body dissatisfaction. Tiggemann found that the biggest reason that influences girls to lose weight is the media. However, he explained that the 16 year old girls are increasingly aware of the media influences and the self-image portrayal. The media such as magazines, television advertisements, music videos emphasise that female’s appearance is thoroughly important. This encourages adolescents to believe that self-worth is connected with appearance. Underweight fashion models create a negative impact upon themselves by looking unhealthy, stretched and physically disordered. Airbrushing in the media further emphasises impractical unrealistic expectations on young adolescent girls in society. In western society, young girl’s self-esteem deteriorates significantly during the adolescent stage. This increases the risk of young girls being extremely vulnerable and to feel dissatisfied with their weight. A study in the UK analysed 136 participant girls aged 11 to 16 year olds to find out if magazine images of underweight models or average weight models caused insecurities in young girls self-esteem. All of the young girls agreed it did cause insecurities and self-esteem issues. A study has confirmed 50% of young girls read fashion magazines between the ages of 11- 15 year old. Additionally, adolescents are being affected by the media because young girls see fashion models as a body to aspire for and admire them as a role model. This influences young girls to diet; in some cases this could have a negative impact on an adolescent girl and her associatiation with her body. Medical researchers are disturbed how the thin body from fashion models are becoming a stimulant to anorexia in adolescent girls. The fashion models bodies are being used as an influential cultural icon in society and fashion models are dangerously thin. Fashion models have an immense impact on young girls and how they begin to view their bodies in a negative way. The fashion models body creates a risk and danger to young girls because young girls think it is effective to aim to imitate the fashion model. This influences the behaviour habits associated with anorexia such as reducing eating habits and exercising more. Similarly, the university of west of England organised a survey involving 810 young participants. The survey concentrated on the media and images in magazine that promote ‘the perfect body’. Over half of the adolescent girls knew of other girls in their school who presently have body troubles. Apparently 25.4% of young girls compare their bodies to celebrities or people in the media and 35.2% of young girls want to look similar to models in magazines. Half of adolescent girls have been on a diet to lose weight and 15% of young girls would take diet pills if they were willing to lose weight. The age groups for individuals with anorexia In western society, people are taught that diets make them more content in their life. The media sends out messages that to be happy in life you have to be thin and there is comparison between realistic views on the body to thin models, average and underweight celebrities. Society wants individuals to look a certain way and being overweight has become unacceptable in western society. In addition, adolescent girls can attempt suicide because of the psychological effects of trying to achieve the ideal body promoted by fashion models. Recovering from anorexia can be difficult and may produce long term effects. Anorexia can have great effects on a young girls life with long term unemployment, parenting, fertility and relationship problems. It is not uncommon for young girls to be depressed with Anorexia. An individual’s eating disorder can have an impact in all aspects of the young girl’s life, in particular the family. Members of the family may find it difficult to approach and support someone with an eating disorder. Influence of Pro-Anorexia Websites The Pro- anorexia websites started appearing on the internet in 1994 and was initially created for individuals with Anorexia. The websites were used as a forum in which other people with the eating disorder could give online support to one another. However, research suggests individuals with the eating disorder are using the website as a way to stay thin, with groups of individuals encouraging one another to stay thin or lose more weight. There is a great concern for adolescents using anti recovery techniques on the Pro Anna website forum. Almost 49% of young adults internationally have access to the internet, exposing young people to damaging websites. The pro Anna website is described for promoting an eating disorder as a lifestyle choice and not as a medical condition. The content on such websites are influencing and giving adolescents ideas on starving themselves. There is a big concern on adolescents being able to access these websites and medical professionals should be aware of the harmful content on the Pro Anna website. Patients should be advised to seek accurate advice and support if willing to view information from the internet. However, more research is needed to be able to stop adolescents from accessing these dangerous websites. On the other hand, there are some positive roles for the Pro Anna website it can strengthen values for individuals and feel they are able to belong in a group. If the forum is used correctly by people with anorexia nervosa, individuals could share similar experiences, can give one another support and encourage each other to eat. The forum does encourage people with Anorexia to tell family, friends and doctors about their eating disorder. However, individuals on the website suggest that others with anorexia should not reveal too much too families and others as they believe people who do not have the eating disorder do not understand. A study of the Pro Anna websites reported that out of 182 families only 27% of parents discussed the Pro Anna website subject with their children. Similarly, only 52% of parents encountered and were aware of the Pro Anna websites. On the other hand, 35% of patients admitted using the Pro Anna websites, on average for at least 2.8 hours a week, with some patients using the website for up to 20 hours a week. The media has increasingly become aware of the effects of the Pro Anna website and are emphasising the necessary precautions parent should pursue in order to prevent their children from visiting the Pro Anna websites. However, the websites should not be unnecessarily advertised or promoted to children. Children should not be aware of the Pro Anna websites existence as this may cause unnecessary harm. In addition, children should be educated to critically analyse images in the media in case children do come across harmful content while accessing the internet. Conclusion The media has a great impact on adolescent girls from developing anorexia. The media is promoting unhealthily thin models and adolescents witness these images as adolescent girls read magazines regularly. This then causes self-esteem issues because adolescents are at a vulnerable age. It then can lead on to serious weight loss and dramatic outcomes. The age has decreased in adolescent girls at one point it was 16-19 year olds, but now it is affecting 11 to 16 year olds. The concern is high for adolescent girls gaining the opportunity of internet access to damaging websites which could further damage a person’s health. However, more research is needed to determine if social influences are the main cause for adolescent girls developing anorexia. Individuals should be aware there are many other causes other than social influences such as behaviour and biology. There are a number of factors that are necessary to take into consideration when diagnosing an adolescent girl with anore xia nervosa. There is not enough research to use one issue to be the responsibility of the eating disorder. 1

Jane Eyre Essay -- essays papers

Jane Eyre The novel, Jane Eyre, by Charlotte Bronte delivers a strong feminist message. Jane was a strong woman in a time when women were not meant to be strong. She was very out spoken (even as a child) and very sure in her values and opinions. She would not change them for anyone. She did not even let men control her, which is what was expected of women in this era. Jane’s father died when she was a little girl, leaving her basically on her own. The only kin she had that she knew of was an aunt that saw her as nothing but a burden and treated her cruelly. Her three cousins were just as bad, which further distressed her situation. Jane’s only escape from living with these awful people was the solitude she found in books. Any time she had spare time she would read. It is Jane’s love for reading and the knowledge she gained from them that gives her the power to finally stand up to her aunt. Her aunt ultimately gets rid of Jane by sending her to a very strict boarding school designed for orphans called Lowood. At Lowood Jane befriends a girl by the name of Helen Burns. When she first meets Helen, she sees her being punished in front of her entire class for virtually no reason. After witnessing this incident, Jane talks to Helen about it because she does not understand why she did not resist the teacher she says: You are good to those who are good to you. It is all I ever desire to be. If people were always kind and obedient to those who are cruel and unjust, the wicked people would have it all their own way: they would never feel afraid, and so they would never alter, but would grow worse and worse. When we are struck at without a reason, we should strike back again very hard; I am sure we sho... ...he now has complete financial independence which I believe makes her more secure in returning to Thornfield because she is in need of nothing but peace of mind in knowing that Mr. Rochester is alright. When she gets to Thornfield she finds it burnt to the ground. Mr. Rochester has gone blind and is very deformed after he went into the fire to try and save his wife from the burning house. His attempt had failed and his wife died. So in the end, Jane can now be with the person that she loves - Mr. Rochester. The irony of their marriage is that Jane will be the one taking care of Mr. Rochester instead of the other way around. Throughout the novel, Jane stands up for what she believes in even though in some cases it hurts her very badly. By her not being scared to do what it takes to follow her beliefs she went from a girl who had nothing to a woman who had it all.

Hermes :: essays research papers

Hermes - Messager god Essay written by Jamecca The idea of gods and goddesses began as far back as the ancient Egyptians, but the ancient Greeks were the first group to form a religion based on gods and goddesses. They believed that the gods and goddesses were not different from humans. Some of the few ways humans were different from gods were that the gods were stronger and lived forever. Since the Greeks believe in many gods, they are Polytheists. The gods and goddesses were thought to control different parts of the universe. For example, Zeus is the king of the gods, controlled weather. Or like Athena who was the goddess of wisdom. You learn about different gods and goddesses in myths. A myth is a story about a god or goddess. Homer, a blind poet, is famous for telling myths. He told myths because no one could read or write. Hermes (Latin name Mercury) is the messenger of the gods. He is the fastest of all the gods and goddesses. He is the son of Zeus and Maia. He is a guide who knew the way to the underworld. So he would show the dead souls the way to the underworld. Hermes is also known as the patron of traders, merchants, thieves and everyone who lived by their wits. Some characteristics of Hermes include his ingenuity, knowledge, creativity, and is known to be very cunning. He is also quite good at gymnastics. Hermes is an incredibly clever god. He found a tortoise outside of his cave and displayed his godly talent by placing strings over the shell, inventing the first lyre. As a child he was very precious, even for a god. But he caused a great deal of trouble. But one day, he went too far and learned a very important lesson. Hermes is a master thief. He started his career as a thief before he was more than a few hours old! It was his intelligence and theft abilities in the following myth that won him recognition as a god. The worship of Hermes began in his birthplace, Arcadia. People of Arcadia would hold festivals called Hermaea in his honor. The sacrifices offered to him included honey, incense, cakes, pigs, lambs, and young goats. One of the most famous myths about Hermes shows his extreme intellect. One day after his mother fell asleep, Hermes tip-toed to the pasture where his brother Apollo kept a large heard of cows.

Massive Tourism Essay

In this globalized world the stress caused by the workload and the problems that occur everyday in our social environment, have a direct effect on the health of the person, who tries to find a way to release the tension. This is why many doctors recommend recreation in the form of travel to avoid harm to our health. Nowadays Tourism has a key part in the lives of every person, but mostly business people. They use it as a way to connect with their children and at the same time, recover their lost energy. These believe has spread all over the world and now Massive Tourism has become an important issue in the Government plans and the Tourism Industry. Massive Tourism happens when large masses of tourist arrive to visit a place. Travel Agencies offer tour packages to groups of people to get lower airfares, room rates, etc. Massive Tourism has a direct effect on the economy of the country, by increasing the incomes and providing more work. But many countries aren’t prepared to receive large groups of people, which causes damage to the culture, infrastructure and also to the environment. Advantages of Massive Tourism  For People Tour Operators and Travel Agencies offer Tour Packages to tourist around the world, to visit and enjoy another countries culture without the need to plan all the activities, transport or accommodations by themselves and by traveling in large groups they get lower costs. This is why the number of tourist has increased, because nowadays it is easier to travel, not to mention cheaper. What most people look for in a trip is to leave all worries and problems behind, and just enjoy and relax for a determined amount of time in another city or country and away form their normal lives. Tour operators can offer lower costs because by making these tour packages they an agreement with the hotel, airlines, museums, etc, who are part of the package. These companies offer the operators a lesser cost, in exchange of promotion, which they get with this tour packages. Both the companies and the tourist benefit from this packages. Also because you travel with a group that will share the same activities and interests it is probable to form relationships and friendships with new people. For Governments Large groups of people arrive everyday to a country, and they expend money by realizing various activities during their stay. For example food, museums, discos, shopping, transport). This is why the country benefits from massive tourism because it has a positive effect on the economy of the country by increasing the incomes. The Tourism Industry is ever growing, which results in more job openings and increases the interest of studying tourism related careers to improve the service given in their country and also to have a bigger involvement to incentive the tourist activities and at the same time, protect the natural patrimony. In addition, massive tourism boosts other kinds of tourism, such s eco tourism which increases investments to create new recreational, and tourist areas. Another advantage of massive tourism is that it improves the relationship between countries. Disadvantages One disadvantage is the rapidly spread of the diseases because of massive tourism. Most people who travels likes to go to a completely different place. For example, they want to visit exotic places. But they do not know the real consequence of their adventure. Sometimes, they are taken by the emotion of the trip and they don’t inform well about the places they are going. One case took place in China. There was a new virus, very contagiously, which spread fast due to the tourists who travel around the world. That way, virus could reach cities like Frankfurt, Toronto etc. As we can see massive tourism helps diseases to expand. Besides humans, animals are also affected by new diseases brought by tourists of other countries. Another important effect of massive tourism is the one on the culture. Now we are living in a globalize world. This means that many aspects are the same in different countries. When many tourists arrive in a country like ours, the people of the host country start to behave like them. Little by little they start changing their image. The impact caused by tourist is strong in some places. For example in our jungle many amazon tribes have lost their traditions. Now they make presentation of typical dances of their tribes only for tourists. Once the tourists leave their tribe, these people start to behave as if they were from the cities. Their naturalness is lost. Same case happens in the highlands. Language is also affected by massive tourism. Nowadays most people understand English. In one way this is very practical for tourists but on the other hand English absorbs the other languages. The attraction of a country, in some cases, is based on the language. If one person wants to go to France in order to learn French, he will find that most people like to speak English or Spanish. The language is part of the culture in a country and it shouldn’t be change. When you see only tourists in one place, you will realize that the lifestyle s affected too. Being surrounded by tourists changes the way you act. This case is presented everyday in Ibiza. This international place has very few Spanish inhabitants. For this little population, life has acquired a different face. Their neighbors are no longer Spanish people but tourists. The way you treat tourists is not the same as you treat people from your country. That is why the lifestyle changes in places like Ibiza that receive mass ive tourism. One of the biggest effects of massive tourism is on the environment. Massive tourism can imply more incomes but is also means more people to attend and too much garbage. Too many people in one place can cause a mess. In fact the more disturbed is the people of the host country. The infrastructure suffers and is damaged because it can not stand multitudes. To illustrate this point Macchupichu is a good example. Recent investigation has revealed that Macchupichu and the whole city of Cuzco are suffering the consequences of the disorganized coming of tourists, especially in the high season. Conclusion Nowadays people are looking for ways to canalize their energy and just for a couple of days, get away from their problems, and meet new cultures and new people. As we have seen massive tourism is an alternative for people that has tight schedules and no time for recreation or just stop to breathe. This is why massive tourism does not only benefit individuals but also the whole society and encourages the population to take interest in the tourism industry and the protection of their culture. Nevertheless Massive Tourism also has a negative aspect for the countries if it is not treated as it should. An organize tourism brings benefits for sides, tourists and countries. Sometimes the solution isn’t in the quantity but in the quality of the services and the experience. In Peru’s case, this negative impact has taken a toll on the infrastructure in some important cities like Cuzco. This is way the authorities have started to develop new plans to organize these cities to receive an organized tourism without damaging the city.

Business operational Essay

To provide learners with an understanding of the role and importance of operations management (OM) in the efficient and effective production of goods and services. Scenario: WH Smith is a major, well-known and publically-quoted book retailer and newsagent in the UK. Recently it was reported how Kate Swann, the former CEO for the last 10 years, has turned the company around from ? 135m losses to ? 106m profit in a decade. (source: www. theguardian. com/business/blog/2013/jan/23/wh-smith-kate-swann-profit, accessed 1 October 2013) (Also see copy attached) This is an example of how the principles of operations management can be used to reactivate a firm. How did she do it? Using the above as a starting point, together with other information sources, which you should research yourself, on WH Smith, you are asked to address the Tasks below regarding operations management. Task 1 (this meets LO 1, ACs 1. 1, 1. 2 and 1. 3) Based on the Scenario, produce a document explaining the nature and importance of Operation Management and its key elements. Your document for this Task must include the following elements (among others as you wish): I. A definition of OM and an explanation of its importance; II. The key elements of OM; III. The need to produce goods or services on time and to cost, with the right quality and within the law; IV. The role of OM in achieving strategic objectives; and V. Produce systems and sub-systems diagrams for any WH Smith operations processes, including a brief explanation of your diagrams. Task 2 (this meets LO 2 ACs 2. 1, 2. 2 and 2. 3) Based on the Scenario, produce a document explaining the relationship between OM and strategic planning. Your document for this Task must include the following elements (among others as you wish): I. II. III. Explain the implementation of the â€Å"3Es† in WH Smith; Critically review the tension between cost minimisation and quality maximisation in the context of WH Smith; and Assess the importance of the five performance objectives that underpin operations management. Task 3 (this meets LOs 3 and 4 in full) Base on the Scenario, produce a document explaining how to organise and apply relevant techniques in a typical production process. Your document for this Task must include the following elements (among others as you wish): I. II. III. IV. Comment briefly on the importance of operational planning and control. Explain what linear programming is, and give an example in relation to any part of the operations of WH Smith; Produce a network plan and indicate the resultant critical path for any operation in WH Smith. (for this task, you should include a set of operational outcomes, which are clearly defined). Explain how quality can be defined and maintained. Learning Outcomes and Assessment Criteria In order to Pass this unit, the evidence that the learner presents for assessment needs to demonstrate that they can meet all the Learning Outcomes for the unit. The Assessment Criteria determine the standard required to Pass this unit. The Assessment Criteria will act as a guide to help you put into context your answers to fulfill the Learning Outcomes. Learning Outcome Assessment Criteria 1. 1 explain the importance of operational management 1. 2 explain the need to produce safely; on time; to cost; to LO 1Understand the quality and within the law nature and importance 1. 3 explain the link between operations management and of operational strategic planning management 1. 4 produce a systems diagram to illustrate a typical business 2. 1 explain the ‘Three Es’ (economy, efficiency and effectiveness) LO2 Understand the link between operations 2. 2 explain the tension between cost minimisation and management and quality maximisation strategic planning 2. 3 evaluate the significance of the five performance objectives that underpin operations management 3. 1 explain linear programming LO3 Understand how 3. 2 evaluate critical path analysis and network planning to organise a typical 3. 3 explain the need for operational planning and control production process LO4 Be able to apply relevant techniques to the production of an operational plan for a typical business 4. 1 produce a set of clearly defined operational outcomes 4. 2 produce a network plan and indicate the resultant critical path 4. 3 explain how quality could be defined and maintained. INSTRUCTIONS AND INFORMATION FOR LEARNERS This assessment and the Tasks above are designed to assess your achievement of all four of the Learning Outcomes and associated Assessment Criteria for a Pass in the ‘Employability Skills’ unit of the qualification you are undertaking. Your tutor/ deliverer will advise you when you should start work on the assignment, the date when you must hand in your completed work and when you can expect to get your mark and feedback on your work. Guidance on this subject is provided on page 1 of this assignment brief. You should make sure that you plan your work carefully, to ensure that you cover all four learning outcomes of the assignment, and complete it within the time limit specified. There is no official guideline wordcount or percentage marking (other than Pass/ Merit/ Distinction/ Refer). By way of guidance only for this particular assignment, it is recommended that you write a minimum of 2000-2500 words total and match the weighting of your efforts to the wordcount indicated. Your statements in answer to the Learning Outcomes need to be prefixed with the specific Learning Outcome title or at least the Learning Outcome number. This will help you keep on track and should ensure you address the details. You must make sure that you acknowledge any sources you have used to complete this assignment, listing reference material and web sites used. The assignment result will be published on BITE’s Moodle online education materials platform, normally within 6 weeks of the submission date. If your assignment is assessed as referred, you will be notified with an indication of the areas to be addressed. You may resubmit an assignment, or submit a new assignment, on a further two occasions during your period of registration as an Institute learner with Edexcel. If there is anything in these instructions or in the assignment itself which you do not understand, please seek guidance from your tutor/ deliverer. Merit grade Descriptors For learners to achieve a Merit they must: Identify and apply strategies to find appropriate solutions Indicative characteristics Learners must demonstrate that: An effective approach to assignment planning, study and research is in evidence Evaluations and judgements, using evidence, have been made Problems with a number of variables have been considered Select/design and apply appropriate methods/techniques A range of relevant theories have been included Relevant theories and techniques have been applied to the case study A range of different sources of information have been used The selection of methods/techniques of analysis and use of source material have been justified Information/ data has been synthesised and processed Present and communicate appropriate findings The written assessment is coherent, shows logical development and a sound understanding of theories, concepts and research evidence The written assessment demonstrates that an appropriate structure and approach has been used The written assignment demonstrates a writing style appropriate for audiences both familiar and unfamiliar with the subject. The written work is clearly written and technical language has been accurately used Distinction grade Distinction descriptors For learners to achieve a Distinction they must: Indicative characteristics Learners must demonstrate that: Use critical reflection to evaluate own work and justify valid conclusions. Conclusions have been arrived at through synthesis of ideas and evaluation of research evidence and have been justified The validity of results has been evaluated using defined criteria Realistic and informed recommendations have been proposed against defined characteristics for success Take responsibility for managing and organising activities. The written assignment shows excellent planning, is organised coherently and is clearly expressed Independence of thought and gathering of research material has been demonstrated Material used has been clearly understood and well organised The importance of individual and group behaviour in organisations and its management has been recognised and addressed Demonstrate convergent/lateral/creative thinking. There is evidence of self-generated ideas with evaluation Convergent and lateral thinking are evident in the written assignment Creative thinking is evidenced with unfamiliar material. Problem-solving is in evidence Innovation and creative thought are in evidence Receptiveness to new ideas is evident Ideas have been generated, evaluated and informed decisions/ recommendations are made. Case Study: WHSmith †¢ WH Smith: Kate Swann turns ? 135m losses into ? 106m profit in a decade One of the UK’s most highly regarded – and highly paid – retailers achieved success by going against the grain WH Smith chief executive Kate Swann favours the old retail adage: sales are vanity, profits are sanity. Photograph: PA When Kate Swann arrived at WH Smith in 2003, there was a widely held view that the chain’s days were numbered. A decade on, she has turned losses of ? 135m into a profit of probably ? 106m this year, and shares that were languishing at 250p are now changing hands at 650p. Swann is now one of the UK’s most highly regarded – and highly paid – retailers. Yet she has achieved this remarkable feat by breaking many of the â€Å"rules† of running a successful high street retail business. When Swann announced she was pulling out of selling music and DVDs because the profit margins were thin and getting thinner, rivals thought she had taken leave of her senses – she was instantly kissing goodbye to about 30% of Smith’s turnover. On a same-store basis on the high street, WHS now sells roughly ? 65 of goods for every ? 100 of custom seven years ago. The demise of Zavvi and HMV in the face of online competition shows it was a brave – and correct – decision. Swann favours the old retail adage: sales are vanity, profits are sanity. By focusing on profitable sales and cutting costs relentlessly, she has boosted profit margins – according to analyst Nick Bubb by an almost incredible 15 percentage points. While other retailers have been pouring resources into the digital world, Smith’s big online strategy is its Funky Pigeon card site. Instead, Swann plans to open more shops, even though they are, to be frank, deeply unpleasant places to shop, stuffed with stock and screaming promotional banners. While the supermarkets have to tread carefully in the products they offer and have been targeted for displaying sweets at the checkout, Smith’s has sold stationery aimed at teenagers and young women adorned with the Playboy bunny motif and Swann’s checkout assistants attempt to force-feed the nation giant bars of Galaxy and chocolate oranges. Her secret? Maybe it’s the low profile. While many rivals enjoy the limelight, holding forth on the woes of the economy, the lack of women in the boardroom and political issues such as the in-out debate, Swann says nothing. She doesn’t give interviews. On Wednesday, at Smith’s AGM, a shareholder stood to offer thanks for her transformation. Asked to respond, she merely said: â€Å"Thank you, let’s move on. † No doubt she will. There will be a queue for her services.