The Battle of Valley Forge

The American Revolution era was one of the most significant time periods in the history of America. As America became more popular and gained more states they had to somehow break free from British rule. The thirteen colonies joined together to slowly gain freedom from Britain and become it’s own independent country. They began to decline British rule and eventually lead to war, to what is now known as the American Revolutionary War. The British sent invasion forces into New England in order to try and regain its power over the states, but they failed and were driven out by Washington and his army.After, George Washington, the general of the troops at the time, moved his troops to a more secure location for the soon coming winter. This location was known as Valley Forge. The times in Valley Forge were known to be very difficult for the soldiers fighting. According to more traditional sources, the soldiers lacked food, shelter and warmth and were also in need of more men. Accor ding to Robert Middlekauff’s text from â€Å"The Glorious Cause†, the times at Valley Forge were indeed miserable and the troops suffered greatly.Jack Rakove’s text from â€Å"Revolutionaries† agrees with Middlekauff’s view, and adds that over two thousand soldiers died that winter. However, Ray Raphael takes on the less traditional view and states that the soldiers did not in fact have such great difficulty. When you compare and contrast the other sources, Ray Raphael has a more persuasive document, as opposed to the more traditional accounts. Robert Middlekauff’s â€Å"The Glorious Cause† takes on the traditional story of Valley Forge, one that it was of extreme suffering and conditional, careless decisions, yet one of bravery and hope.Valley Forge was a difficult time for the soldiers fighting for their country. The conditions were severe and there were no buildings, as the troops had to put up their own. The troops lacked shoes, c lothing and soap and frequently had nothing to eat. The soldiers were starving and many were cold and sick. The water for all uses had to be carried for considerable distances. These are only few of the problems the soldiers faced day by day. George Washington, the leader of the troops, did his best to find food and get it to Valley Forge.Although Congress encouraged Washington to seize food that troops needed, Washington resisted suggestions. He recognized that relief of his troops hunger would undercut principles of revolution, and political support of people. Instead, he sent commissary in search of provisions, seized supplies, and attempted to protect seller's interest as much as possible. Washington’s orders suggest that he did not overlook many ways of maintaining discipline. The soldiers were absolutely miserable. They lacked everything an army needs for survival, from clothing to food to shelter.They had been hungry for weeks and suffering for months. After all of ago ny and distress, the soldiers pulled through with hope, and continued to fight. â€Å"Revolutionaries†, by Jack Rakove, as well, speaks about the great hardships and suffering that the soldiers went through at Valley Forge. George Washington was somewhat of a tough leader who knew his priorities. â€Å"We have not more than three months to prepare a great deal of business in, and if we let these slip or waste, we shall be labouring under the same difficulties all next campaign as we have done this.He explains that although George Washington understood the difficult circumstances that the men were going through, they had to continue in order to prevent from a cycle of the same things happening again. According to Rakove, when the winter at Valley Forge began, the soldiers were â€Å"barefoot, huddled in the snow around flickering fires†, while the enemy was sleeping warm, well fed, in nearby Philadelphia. In mid February, the men were lacking meat, and drenching rains washed out roads, swelled rivers, and badly disrupted the flow of supplies to camp.Over two thousand soldiers died that winter. Although they were starving, lack of food was not the main reason for the soldier’s deaths, but rather the lowered resistance to disease, food shortages, and inadequate clothing while the men were overcrowded on the huts. What caused all of this was mostly the strategic and political considerations. Congress imposed well meant but misguided reforms, which strained to the breaking point of the supply system.Although congress meant well, they’re plans were in fact failures and led to the critically harsh times of the soldiers. Many mistakes made by the congress lead to not only political problems, but also problems within the soldier’s lives during the harsh winter. Although Jack Rakove and Robert Middlekauff take on the more traditional story of the experience in Valley Forge, Ray Raphael takes on a different approach. In Ray Raphaelâ₠¬â„¢s â€Å"The Winter At Valley Forge†, he explains that many people believe in the traditional telling of the experiences in Valley Forge.Many people believe that the winter was one of the cruelest winters in the countries history and that the soldiers suffered greatly, but were able to withstand the wrath of British. Raphael exclaims that the traditional Valley Forge story is â€Å"disrespectful to the soldiers who endured years of hardships, endangered their lives, and in many cases died so that the United States could gain and retain its independence. To give these patriots the respect that is their due, we have to cease creating idealized fantasies about how well they behaved themselves.Raphael is greatly disappointed with the treatment and lack and respect towards the soldiers and story of Valley Forge and explains that the soldiers demanded food, clothing, and money, which had been promised to them and which was necessary for them in order to stay in the field and fa ce the enemy. â€Å"The few who act upon Principles of disinterestedness are, comparatively speaking, no more than a drop in the Ocean. † This is a quote by George Washington, commenting on the lack of people joining the army and helping the country fight for it’s independence.Reluctantly, the Congress offered bounties to those who agreed to join the army. This is why the men demanded the food, clothing and pay. Congress allowed the Commissary Department to fall into shambles, as the much needed food and clothing never arrived. Congress was accountable for the lack of provisions that caused the soldiers great suffering and grief. Forced to move on, the troops moved forward from Valley Forge to pillage local civilians. When the soldiers failed to receive adequate food, minimal clothing, or the pay they had been promised, they were forced to make a decision.They either had to endure their hardships silently, grumble among themselves, or make trouble. They could either de fend themselves or walk away. Soldiers had to deal with this unsolvable problem everyday, and they chose to act forcibly and continue. This is the true story of Valley Forge. These three sources share similarities and differences. It is quite clear that Jack Rakove and Robert Middlekauff, for the most part agree on their depictions of the experience at Valley Forge. But, Ray Raphael shares a much more interesting, more realistic portrayal.The traditional telling of Valley Forge is one somewhat out of a fairytale. It is simply over exaggerated with the overly harsh conditions and strong heart of the men who pulled through with their dedication to their country and continued fighting without ever giving up or losing hope. In the words of Ray Raphael himself, it is â€Å"disrespectful† towards the soldiers who fought for our country in Valley Forge. All three of these sources do agree that the times were not easy, but Raphael bases it off of a more reasonable explanation, rather than blaming the misery on nature.Raphael explains that it was in fact the congress’ fault for the soldier’s suffering. The congress did not send the soldiers the proper necessities in which they were promised, such as food, clothing or pay. The soldier's could have simply retreated and walked away, but they chose not to. They decided, despite the fact that they did not have the proper necessities to fight, they would continue and use what they could to survive and defeat the enemy. Raphael shares a more respectful, appreciative and persuasive telling of the story of Valley Forge.

Change Management Plan

This document will cover Riordan Manufacturing’s current management plan and the new proposed plan. It will also cover how the management plans on changing this plan over the next 12 months. Change Management Plan Riordan Manufacturing is a company which operates its official system like a bureaucracy. Every division has a manager and that manager responds to their manager who then reports to the president and CEO Dr. Michael Riordan. The bureaucracy is established like a matrix system. Every division consists of those who perform specific jobs. Every division has their own informal systems. These informal systems are created by building working associations collectively. Riordan motivates every worker to report any problems that they may have directly to their supervisor. This lets every worker, as stated in Riordan Manufacturing’s Worker Handbook, â€Å"Our experience has demonstrated that when workers deal openly and directly with administration, the work atmosphere can be fantastic, interactions can be obvious and attitudes can be optimistic. † By opening up the door to open interaction with all administration it improves worker behavior since they are capable to convey their values and problems. When workers are motivated to express themselves freely it increases the dedication to the organization and increases job satisfaction. Although Riordan Manufacturing desires to apply a fresh client administration method, Riordan Manufacturing must continue to adopt the matrix structure which they presently have set up. By setting up a fresh client administration system it will let every place be capable to assess the info for every client regardless of what place they would be at. Maintaining the existing matrix system will let and continue to improve team attempts to develop the complete work which is expected from every division. Riordan Manufacturing is a plastics production organization which employees more than 500 individuals. They have organizations in Albany, Georgia, Pontiac Michigan, Hangzhou, China, and San Jose, California where their company head office is located. Riordan items contain plastic drinks cans, customized plastic components, and plastic fan components. Their major clients are auto and plane component producers, soft drink producers, Department of Defense, and appliance producers. Worker conduct affects how they work and react to their work, managers, and clients. The company tradition at Riordan contains equity, confidence, commitment, have an inventive and team work atmosphere, impairment accommodations, performance assessments, worker rewards for example 401K, academic help, health and life insurance, respect vacations, honor vacations, assistance with day care, and employees compensation insurance coverage. Riordan seems to be a production organization which tries to become a choice for their clients rather than being a problem to their clients. Although this organization might be a great organization they just like any other producer have issues that must be tackled together with modifications which might influence the organization for the organization to remain in the loop with present economy problems. Some workers can't cope with modification and they may become unwilling. Some workers avoid modification is because of the lack of knowledge regarding the modification, comfort, personal private views, lack of confidence. However, even though the workers are being resistive, the administrators are intending to cope with the opposition and assist workers cope with the modification more efficiently. Administrators may apply the modification by conveying clearly, being straightforward, and acknowledging their worries together with acknowledging and respecting the workers. Administrators may rovide reinforces and support by letting workers to meet with them face to face with regards to the modification or the worker could benefit from some additional coaching. Administrators might place the resistive workers with somebody who is already using the modification, therefore the worker that is not adjusting will see a confident and administrators may make certain they have set some objectives to make sure the success of the modification was worthwhile and advantag eous. Modification is a part that needs constant and continuous quality of improvements. During the months administrators must be sure that the modification they put in place keep growing and continue to remain effective. Administrators can perform this by applying reaction to areas which are in danger, continue to make contact with their workers whether it is through phone, email, individual to individual, text messaging, or memo. Safety precautions will also continue to be managed and improve, and when the economy changes medical care in the organization might accommodate employee’s requirements. Staff and administration attitudes will remain optimistic, involve your workers, care for their views, ideas, thoughts, continue to provide training sessions, set objectives and goals (praising the workers might be a plus), and encourage inspiration in which this will let the workers to be more devoted. Administrators may assess achievement by viewing how the organization modifies that went into effect is up and running, organization numbers/sales haven't decreased, and workers are producing good results. To assess failure it would be the total reverse, however what would it be to assess. In case the organization is failing or haven't seen any growth then they must put forth one more change. Communication Plan When modification is introduced in the office it may also bring opposition from workers. This opposition arises from a modification in routines, anxiety about the unfamiliar, a reduction in a sense of safety, or even a danger to associations to name a few. While developing an interaction to workers, administration must try to train regarding the modification as well as contact as many employees as is possible. Doing so will likely reduce the opposition from workers and let approval of the modification. Administration must pick a type of interaction to convey administration modification at Riordan Manufacturing which will reach all workers with the same information. In this situation the best way to contact the most workers is to utilize a mix of a memo and e-mail. In these types of interactions, administrators must express why the modification is essential, what the modification will bring to the company, and develop a fresh mission. Describing the modification to workers will train them on why the modification must be made and provide them insight into the unfamiliar. The new administration mission will assist create company tradition that workers can buy into. Using a memo and e-mail is the most efficient way to convey the modification to the workers. This technique additionally permits the identical information to be sent. The information being sent is vital in order that workers aren't getting different info regarding the modification. While transmitting the message to workers, some hurdles might come up. Some workers might not read the message that will lead them to be unaware. Administrators must contact front line supervisors to make sure that all workers have read the message. A read receipt may also be linked to the e-mail to make sure that workers are getting the email. The information found in the message must also help the modification in a positive manner. Some workers might take the information as a bad modification that will enhance opposition. Team conferences must take place in order that supervisors can go over the content in the memo and e-mail. These conferences will let supervisors to deal with any queries regarding the modification and put the workers relaxed. Conveying modification is a vital method utilized to permit the change to be finished properly and keep worker spirit. Conveying modification in the office is essential to reduce opposition among employees. This interaction must try to train workers regarding the modification to assist put the employees relaxed. This information must be created in a manner to reach all workers with the same message in order that all workers are receiving the same info. Conveying modification in an efficient manner will probably enhance approval of modification and maintain the company tradition unchanged. Valued Employees of Riordan Manufacturing: The organization has made a decision to apply a client administration method which will permit you to easily monitor our clients. Administration knows that we have put great accountability on you to manage client info and wish to provide you the methods to do this job more efficiently. This info might be better more effective when we keep it in a uniformed style and saved in a convenient location. By applying this method we are allowing the info to be easily available to all workers and will get rid of any requirement for substantial searching. We know that info, if not saved correctly will get lost, and we don't want to endanger the client associations which you have worked so carefully to maintain. Formalized training will be given to all workers prior to execution. Our objective is to ensure that you are happy using the latest program before it's put into use. We have created a formalized coaching agenda for following week to make sure everybody has had time to see, work, and know the program. Administration knows that knowing latest method is a difficult job, however we are assured you will notice the advantage of this latest program. We thank you all for your persistence and assistance. Please contact your immediate supervisor with any queries or problems. Thank You, Riordan Manufacturing Management This document has successfully explained the new management plan and a plan on how the management is going to convey that message to their employees. After reading everything the reader should have a better grasp on what the management is doing and when the changes are going to be implemented. References Robbins, S. P., & Judge, T. A. (2011).Organizational behavior (14th ed.). Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson/Prentice Hall. https://ecampus.phoenix.edu/secure/aapd/CIST/VOP/Business/Riordan/index.asp

Group Brand Audit Project Essay

Your group assignment is to pick a brand from the list of brands(attached) and conduct a thorough brand audit. Each group must study and analyze a different brand. Brands will be assigned on a â€Å"first come, first serve† basis. Post your group’s choice of brand and gp number on the â€Å"questions for Prof/TA† board so that everyone can see your group’s choice. This way, the other gps will know which brands are already taken on a first come first serve basis. Once your gp posts a Brand choice (that is not already taken)- it’s yours. The brand audit analysis will be based on information from public secondary sources, company web sites, as well as your own professional experiences and insights. Surveys or primary research are not required but can certainly be conducted and used as needed. The final Powerpoint report should be submitted using the assignment link on elearning. The length of the Brand Audit report should be approx. 30-40 ppt slides (not including any appendices or references). Typically a thorough audit requires 30-40 hours of work which divided among 6 or 7 gp members usually amounts to an average of about 5-6 hrs of work per student. The following format and guideline will help streamline the approach and the process. A tentative example is available for you to review on page 132 of the textbook. This Rolex example is only that†¦an example†¦just a very brief and concise example. I. Brand Inventory A current, comprehensive profile of how all products and services sold by a company are marketed and branded. Read Also: List of Exploratory Essay Topics This is mainly the supply-side view of the company and the brand. Should include (but not limited to): History of the brand Identification of all brand elements (logos, symbols, characters, packaging, slogans, trademarks). Brand architecture. Description of attributes of the product/idea/service. Profile of direct and indirect competitive brands (use points of parity and points of difference). Include market share and other relevant facts and figures. ‘Brand Architecture’ and ‘Hierarchy’ and ‘brand product matrix’ (where applicable). Pricing, profitability and market share of the brand. Distribution channels and policies. Supporting marketing communications/promotional programs. Brand personality as reflected by the brand elements and existing marketing mix. 1 II. Brand Exploratory This is usually the more challenging research and analytical component of this assignment. Actual consumer perceptions may or may not reflect those intended by the marketer. The Brand exploratory is aimed at understanding what consumers feel and think about the brand in order to identify sources of brand equity. Should include (but not limited to): Customer knowledge of the brand (include â€Å"Brand Mental Map†). Brand Associations: awareness, strength, favorability, consistency and uniqueness of brand associations. Main sources of Brand Equity (possible threats to Brand Equity) Customer-Based Brand Equity Pyramid (CBBE pyramid) Problem areas/inconsistencies of perception vs. market reality. The size, profile and buying behavior of the most important customer segments. The depth and breath of ‘Brand Awareness’. A perceptual map showing the brand and its main competitors along the most important brand attributes. III. Conclusion & Recommendations: Should include (but not limited to): SWOT analysis. A proposal for a ‘positioning’ statement. Recommendations concerning how to measure, build and manage additional Brand Equity. IV. Appendix: Supporting/additional Tables, Charts, Graphs, Figures, Photos, etc. V. References: List only the material that you actually refer to in the report. Choose from this list of Brands (most of them from Business Week’s 100 Best Global Brands) Post your gp’s choice on the â€Å"Ques for Prof/TA† board on a first come first serve basis.

Language Beliefs Paper Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Language Beliefs Paper - Essay Example f adult learning and literacy are more expected to be providing an appropriate framework for second language learning compared to those concerned with child development. Linguistic-oriented theories of language learning tend to highlight genetic mechanisms, which are the so-called "universal grammars" in explaining language acquisition. Behavioral theories dispute that association, reinforcement, and imitation are the primary factors in the acquisition of language. Cognitive theories put forward that schema, rule structures, and meaning are the distinctive characteristic of language learning. Memory processes have been singled out as the basis for language intellectual capacity. There are a number of principles, which are related, with second language acquisition of children but in the following paragraphs, only the most imperative ones are stated. The first principle states that bilingualism is an asset hence it must be promoted at all levels. The topic of the use of language for bilingual children has now been a debate for the last so many years and there are no simple and definite answer. At times, parents as well as members of a community start feeling pretty strongly about their children who could not speak English in school. At other points of time, it has been witnessed that there is a robust attitude attached with the strengthening of the home language, while at the same time teaching English. The decision as to how to introduce English to children who come to school with limited proficiency in English should be left to local discretion of the parents as well as at times, to the children themselves, the latter being the case when they have serious p roblems understanding the second language or have trouble speaking and/or writing or both. If we talk about acquiring English, the child might come into sight as having some degree of know-how and adeptness in both the languages, thus signifying it as a transitional chapter for the duration of which requirement

Murder of JonBenet Ramsey Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Murder of JonBenet Ramsey - Case Study Example Prior to the discovery of the body, the Ramsey's found a ransom note in the basement from â€Å"a foreign faction† demanding $118,000.00 for the safe return of Jon Benet (â€Å"JonBenet Ramsey Would Have Turned 22 Years Old This Week; Murder Case Remains Unsolved†, 2012). This particular piece of information pertaining to the ransom amount was a red flag for the police at the time. The amount was the exact amount that John had just received as a bonus earlier in the year, this coincidence led to the speculation that somehow, the person involved in the crime knew the Ramsey's on a personal level (Stuart, 2012). But without a follow up call on the ransom note, the Ramsey family decided that it would be in the best interest of all concerned to inform their family and friends of the situation while also preparing to follow the instructions for the ransom demand. The police began an intensive search for the child within hours only to have her father inform them that he had f ound the body of the child in the basement. The official cause of death is listed as asphyxiation due to craniocerebral trauma. But a more in-depth look at the autopsy records reveals that the child also suffered from a skull fracture and severe blunt trauma. Evidence gathered at the crime scene included a garrote made from tweed and the broken handle of a paintbrush that is believed to have been used to penetrate the child's vagina. Although there was penetration, the police could not accurately declare if sexual assault was one of the horrors that the child suffered in the hands of her abductors (Montaldo, 2013). Although a majority of the evidence collected by the police indicated that a stranger had caused the death of JonBenet, there were still certain things that led the district attorney to question the abduction theory because of the way the child's body was recovered at home. Somehow, the evidence that the DA was seeing did not add up to an abduction scenario. Rather, the s ights of the police investigating the case, and the media for that matter, then centered on the possibility that one or both parents of JonBenet had caused her death. Although the authorities and media fed the public lines that led those outside of the case to believe that Patsy and John had possibly murdered their daughter in cold blood, the courts saw otherwise. Patsy, who died of cancer in 2006, and John were exonerated by the federal courts in May 2003 due to lack of strong evidence to support the parent murderer theory (Montaldo, 2013). Their total exoneration came as new DNA evidence in the case was presented, proving that traces of DNA not belonging to family members was found on the preserved clothing of JonBenet (Gardner, 2010). With the discovery of new DNA evidence in the case, one can clearly see that, had the police not set upon a trial by publicity on the Ramsey's and concentrated instead on actual police investigation, they would have caught the actual perpetrator(s) in the case. During the course of the first investigation of the case, the police had conducted more than a few blunders that influenced the case and set upon creating a publicity machine using false leaked information to crucify the suffering parents instead. First of all, because Boulder, Colorado was known back then as a relatively peaceful and safe place for its

Technology Research and Report Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Technology Research and Report - Essay Example Frank Ohrtman (2003, p.116) indicates that among data exchange standard, there has been phenomenal improvement especially in XML MP3 and TCP/IP the much dependent upon broad access to nonproprietary networking and data communications infrastructure (the Internet) that has been a principle tool in supporting the rising of technology waves and strong development undercurrents . Current technological landscape In this technological age, the combination of new standards, distributed software, expertise and a worldwide Internet infrastructure has created and continues to create a profoundly new technological architecture landscape. The advancement on technology has contributed immensely to heavy investment in the information technology industry. Organisations have increased investments in technologies and standards that allow them to bring structure to unstructured information. The motivation to replace unstructured with structured data is not the sole responsibility of the information co mmunity and the library alone, but also among business and national authorities across the world nations. On average enterprises operate with upto 85 percent of unstructured content, upon which efforts are being focused on harnessing their power in order for the enterprises to benefit from resulting competitive advantages. (Aray R., 2004). Among many others, there have emerged search engines as a dominant technical and structural approach towards automated data categorisation. Savvy Web users have become experts (professionally known as SEOs) at optimizing search strategies to maximize of the expected result although pressure has arose for much more advanced/structures search engines. Delivery of mobiles services This technology has also been widely embraced in the mobile technology. Provision of websites that are viewable via mobile phones is increasingly on demand and organisations have largely embraced provision of services and information through mobile technology (Andreas F. 20 11) Mobile service providers have been largely affected by the current technology landscape as they have to cope with ever emerging changes in the industry. Big chunks of the world’s population today are holders of mobile phones. Mobiles are not only used as communication devices but as also devices to access the Internet. The integration of such capabilities in the mobile devices has triggered a paralleled competition among mobile service providers as well as manufactures (Ajay R., 210). Effect of coverage and limitations Irrespective of geographical and topographical challenges, mobile service providers have managed to provide network coverage for their services to almost all parts within where their businesses operate. Though some challenges of network coverage are largely found in the African continent, most areas in the continent still enjoy these services. Advantages of 2G, 3G and 4G The mobile telecommunications industry has seen a lot of evolution since the inception of the use of mobile phone as a means of communication. There have been migrations in the industry such as the 2G, 3G and now the famous 4G networks in this industry. These have seen the industry improve provision of service to mobile owners become streamlined and the service advanced. The 2G technology evolved from 1G technology

The Subculture of Nerds and Their Rise to Stardom Research Paper

The Subculture of Nerds and Their Rise to Stardom - Research Paper Example Cultural divisions between nerds and popular culture a) The fact that there is certain music, movies, and other interests that are viewed as being solely for nerds. The Treatment of Nerds 1. Bullying Nerds a) The lack of effectiveness in the solutions for picking on nerds that the educational system ash offered and reasons why their actions continue to ineffective. The Nerds’ Status Change 1. Cause of the increased popularity of nerds a) The appearance of the sexy, rich nerd and explanations for the growth in popularity of the nerd subculture Conclusion The Subculture of Nerds and Their Rise to Stardom Introduction Subcultures define the state of high school society. While the identification with a set subculture often fades from a person’s definition of themselves after high school, some people stay members of their groups. Subcultures themselves have a continuation past the school years and emerge in mainstream society. While for some subcultures there is no particula r judgment of being good or bad, there are many subcultures to which many would hesitantly subscribe because of the negative way people in that group are perceived. Nerds, in particular, are a subculture to which the members often have been assigned without their choosing. On the opposite side of judgment stands the popular crowd. Usually, it is the popular subculture that is responsible for the many social ills from which those deemed nerds suffer. Being considered good, they judge against all that are not like them. It is members of this group that give labels to the others. Many who are called nerds would rather not be called thusly. Nerd has been a term used in teasing and still persists in modern bullying. Yet, even with all the persecution that those who are considered nerds must bear, this subculture has received some promotion in today’s society. Being once only a group to be despised, the nerds have actually won fans and there are some who now enjoy being members of this subculture, proudly wearing the label that they have been ascribed. An investigation into the nerds as a subculture cannot effectively be completed without defining just what a nerd is. There are actually many different meanings of the word. For some, a nerd is a special group which is set apart from others whose members display a greater than normal intelligence. Yet, for others it is a name that can be used interchangeably with others. In explaining the stereotype of the nerd, it has been said, â€Å"The stock character nerd is typically depicted as a white male with glasses and large sets of obscure data committed to memory† (Stauffer, 2009). Indeed, media would depict a nerd the same. The controversy lies in making the distinction between the nerds and a similar subculture called ‘geeks’. For many it seems ridiculous to make a distinction between a geek and a nerd, as it has been stated, â€Å"They are called â€Å"nerds,† â€Å"dweebs,† à ¢â‚¬Å"dorks,† â€Å"geeks,† â€Å"brainiacs,† and â€Å"computer jocks† (Kinney, 1993: p.21). All of these names are generally meant to imply someone who is socially inapt and has an above average interest in things like science, math, science fiction, computers, and the like. However, there has been some distinction made. For example, from an interview performed it was quoted, " 'Nerd' is a stickier term that is applied to people in a more negative way," Kendall said. â€Å"

Identify the ethical issues within the field of Information Technology Essay

Identify the ethical issues within the field of Information Technology - Essay Example A number of ethical concerns are associated with implementing the proposed integration project. Firstly, Accounting software, Graphic design software, operating systems, and virus guards can be purchased from unauthorized venders at a lower price. This is an act of violating laws regarding copy right, patents and trade secret. In addition using low price software which closely resembles the originals is also unethical. Such software can be associated with plagiarism, reverse engineering, open source code and cybersquatting(Ethics in Information Technology - Auburn University). Secondly, employees are responsible for using firm’s computers, internet facility, software and other appliances solely for the purpose of fulfilling the duties assigned to them. This is important to increase firm’s productivity (431). Workers are also expected to avoid unauthorized using of firm’s computers and confidential data. Accounting firm’s administration cannot rely only on trust for security issues like this while in the process of integrating with a different firm. On the one hand employees of two firms adapt to changing organizational structure after a certain time period. Organizational disputes can happen during this time period (Schein, 2004 ). On the other hand newly established firm has a larger number of employees. Firms use low cost and convenient IT solutions to monitor and supervise a large number of employees. New computers that are provided under this project will be linked via a computer network system. This shared network system can be used to obtain high speed internet facility to all the computers in firm. There are unauthorized means of using shared internet connections. Ethical procedure is purchasing an appropriate package from an Internet Service Provider. Networking is also important for increasing resource use efficiency of the firm such as printers (314). In addition, accessing to websites such as Facebook, YouTube eBay and

Health Reforms in the U.S. and UK Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2250 words

Health Reforms in the U.S. and UK - Essay Example The countries’ governments have indeed stated that the marginalised group of the society lacks proper healthcare due to the prevailing economic incapacities. Therefore, the governments feel the need to consider all citizens in offering healthcare services despite their societal status, races, demographic variability and economic variations. As a result, implementation of healthcare reforms in these countries has been given first priority (Weisfield, English & Claiborne 2012, p. 54). The aspects established in the reforms include cost reductions, quality enhancement criteria, patient satisfaction, stimulating ideal information technology approaches and improving overall service delivery in the health sector. Access to Health Care Individuals are entitled to efficient and effective healthcare services. In this case, the US advocates access to insurance cover that will cater for health-related issues. According to Tudor, the government ascertains that the reforms will further sec ure and ease the risk of loss for those with health insurance policies. On the contrary, the UK government advocates fair access to health services through the reforms. This emphasises the stringent measures over the health services delivered by private and public proprietors (Great Britain 2012, p. 78). The United Kingdom further advocates that proper health care systems will put patients into consideration, and to that extent, they will have the rights to express the types of services they seek. Most importantly, the UK reforms target to reshape and restructure the health system by approaching all societal groupings equally. In essence, the country understands the importance of all citizens and upholds their health as being significant to economic propulsion. The reforms consider improving the rate at which people gain access to health by allocating funds to the clinical commissioning groups and the founding of Public Health England. The bodies serve in intensifying health provisi on throughout the UK, thus reaching people in all dimensions nationwide. This aspect contrasts with the United States reforms, which imply that individuals ought to access insurance cover to stand viable to health services. On the other hand, the US government depicts that most of its citizens lack prompt access to health services due to high costs as compared to other nations. The reforms shall implement guaranteed access to the best health care among all citizens, thus enhancing social welfare. Through the reforms, the governments will subsidise the cost of insurance, hence making the policy cheaper and accessible by the marginalised group of the society (Truglio-Londrigan & Lewenson 2011, p. 49). An analytical approach portrayed that the US nation spends much on medical care but denies the citizens access because of the cost constraints. Therefore, suppressing the costs will propel health care throughout the nation. On the contrary, the UK government offers free health care throu ghout the nations, but inhibitions prevail over immigrants, and the time factor also matters since health facilities do not offer prompt services (Great Britain 2012, p. 79). Therefore, the UK reforms contrast with those of the US in accessibility to the extent that while one seeks to surpass costs, the other wishes to improve prompt delivery to all citizens despite their region and ethnicity. Health Quality Criteria A survey conducted upon the uninsured and insured patients inclusive of those

Creating customer value Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Creating customer value - Term Paper Example Given the fact that there are no monthly charges and debit card customization fee, many clients will find it easy and beneficial to use this account. The ease of online access to the account will also mean that the customers will be able to access the services without being restricted by geographical location or time. The ease in online access will also imply that the customers would not have to worry when it comes to account opening and online transactions (Ryals 2008, p. 101). The frequent add-ons also imply that customers will have an easier time in making the banking services match their lifestyles. This implies that the bank will be continuously responding to the changes in demands of the market. The monetary cost involved in this case includes the money that would be used in development of systems and customization of the debit cards (Alessandrini, Fratianni & Zazzaro 2009, p. 97). The bank will have to invest extensively to make sure that these services are available to their customers. It will basically take the both the bank and their clients less time for transactions under this account. However, the add-ons and the customization of debit cards will definitely take some time (Cassis 2009, p. 109). This implies that this is a continuous process especially now that it will involve market studies. In this case the energy that will be needed is basically that which will be required in maintainace and management of the system and customer service related activities. The energy needed in this case will come in the form of electricity and human power. The physiological cost is that the bank will have to put up with attending to clients of diverse nature (Sarlak & Hastiani 2011, p. 117). The bank will have to make sure that their personnel are prepared to psychologically take care of the needs of their

Poverty and Obesity Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Poverty and Obesity - Essay Example Additionally, individual view on obesity contributes to the prevalence. Obese children are at risk of developing high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, metabolic syndrome, behavior, and learning disorder, psychosocial health problems such as low self-esteem, and depression (Ogden et al, 2010). Indeed, there are various healthcare teams involved in health care education that include practicing nurses, parental and healthcare professionals, community and government health workers. These healthcare teams help in identifying children at-risk, provision of medical referrals, educating parents on the resultant health risks, encouraging consumption of nutritional balanced diets, promoting increased physical activities, and offering counseling for physical and emotional support. Indeed, through the healthcare teams we can clearly assess childhood obesity and promote obesity prevention. Ogden, C., Molly, M., Lamb, M., Carroll, M., & Flegal, K. (2010). Obesity and Socioeconomic Status in Children and Adolescents: United States, 2005-2008. NCHS Data Brief No. 51 Hyattsville, MD: National Center for Health

Colombian people Essay Example for Free

Colombian people Essay 2. List what is said about the British / Germans / Americans. British ?Bad food ?Not to easy going ?Pompous ?Arrogants ?Humorless Germans ?Stricts ?Punctuals ?Serious ?Precise ?Hardworkers Americans ?Loud ?Easygoing ?Ignorants ?Confidence 3. THEN MAKE A List of the adjectives / actions you think do stereotype the people from your country of origin. Colombians ?Easygoing ?Drug-dealers ?Like to party ?Coffee 4. Explain briefly whether you think there is some truth in them. Easygoing I think that Colombian people are very easygoing we can adapt to different cultures. Drug-dealers There is a belief that a huge of percent of the population work with cocaine, but actually there is small organization who deals with it and the vast majority of the population are normal people who work, study as the other population of the earth. Like to party In spite of the problems that the county has, we enjoy the life and seize any occasion for celebrate with passion and happiness. Coffee The best coffee in the world is produced in the Colombian’s mountains of a traditional and craft way.

Supply Chain Of Motorola Smartphones Commerce Essay

Supply Chain Of Motorola Smartphones Commerce Essay In the dynamic market of smart phone competition, companies need to establish a responsive supply chain to adapt with the changing environment and Motorola is not an exception. As they introduce their innovative Droid 2 to Vietnamese market, Motorola looks for suitable solutions to strengthen their competitive supply chain, especially in this country. Through the overview of Motorolas internal and external aspects in dynamic Vietnam logistics environment, this paper exams the difficulties the enterprises supply chain is facing and proposed three possible solutions in logistics and supply chain perspectives. The strength of Motorola lies in their experience, technology, and competency in managing electronics supply chain in different countries. Although outsourcing non-core business such as transportation may cause the enterprise to lose control on the activity, yet it also enables them to focus more in their core operations. Thus, the supply chain is more adaptive to the dynamic Vietnamese logistics environment, where the transportation and information infrastructures are under-developed. They lead to five major issues for Motorola supply chain mentioned in this paper: holding high level of inventory, low lead time, inaccurate demand forecast, timeliness, and inventory condition. To solve the suggested issues, the paper proposes three logistics strategy for Motorola: transportation-based third party logistics (3PL), collaborative planning, forecasting and replenishment (CPFR), and using radio frequency identification (RFID). Transportation-based 3PL is expected to solve the transportation difficulties for Motorola, as well as ensuring in-transit stock quality and timeliness. CPFR enhances the collaboration between trading partners to improve forecasting, reducing lead time and decreasing the risks of overstock and stock-out. Lastly, RFID supports inventory visibility, leading to accurate inventory management and replenishment. Among the three strategies, CPFR is the most suitable for Motorola to adapt due to the advantages of collaborating, planning, and forecasting. Thus, lead time will be reduced and inventory is better managed, the burden will be shared by many firms in the supply chain, and customers will be served better. Adapting CPFR, in the first quarter of 2010, Motorola is expected to reduce forecast error to 2%, lead time to 5 days and stock-out rate to 2.5%. Although CPFR is expensive and raises risks of sharing information, the benefits of accurate forecast, shorter lead time, better managing inventory, and above all better customer services will be critical for the successful launch of Droid 2 into Vietnam. CHANNEL OF DISTRIBUTION FOR THE SUPPLY CHAIN FOR MOTOROLA Inbound logistics Outbound logistics Apparition Game Tech (software and USB pads) Indonesia supplier (components) China supplier (components) Vinaphone Mobile phone stores Department stores Electronics stores Mobile phone single stores Mobile phone store chain warehouses Camera shops Mobile phone stores Department stores Electronics stores Mobile phone single stores Mobile phone store chain warehouses Camera shops Customers Motorola Malaysia (manufacturing and assembling) Motorola Hanoi distribution centers Motorola HCMC distribution center Packaging, labeling, and manual printing provider Research and Analysis: 1.1 Description: From China and Indonesia suppliers, 60% of components will be shipped to Motorola factory in Malaysia by air. Apparition Game Tech (AGT) will ship the USB game pads to the Malaysia plant to install with the phones. AGT will also supply the software to Motorola Malaysia plant to install into the phones. In Motorola Malaysia factory, they will produce 40% of critical components of Droid 2. The mobile phones will be assembled in this factory with software installed. Then the phones will be temporarily packed. Droid 2 will be shipped to Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City distribution centers. The packaging, labelling, and printing provider will deliver the packages and Vietnamese language user manuals to the distribution centres, where the final packaging will be processed. From the distribution centers, Droid 2 will be delivered to retailers, including mobile phone store chains warehouses, single mobile stores, electronics stores, department stores, and camera stores carrying cell phone. The mobile phone store chains then will deliver Droid 2 to their shops. From retailers, Droid 2 is sold to end users. Vinaphone provides SIM card for customers in the retail shops so they can use the phones. For users already having a Vinaphone account, Vinaphone will guide them to activate their 3G functions. All the transportation in the supply chain will be outsourced to third party logistics. 1.2 SWOT analysis Strength: Motorola has the technology, experience and skill in managing electronics supply chain internationally. Outsourcing the transportation for third party providers, they can focus on its core competency. With their specialization, the third parties can reduce transporting time and contribute to the responsive supply chain Motorola aims to build. The two distribution centers located in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, which have the most cohesive transportation systems in Vietnam and concentrate complex retail systems, will enable the product flow from manufacturing to distribution and retailing move smoothly. Weakness: Transportation of the supply chain will be outsourced to transportation based third party logistic service providers. Thus, Motorola may loss some control over its transportation activities and in-transit inventory. Moreover, as two partners in the supply chain, such as Motorola and its retailers, will not deal directly with each other when inventory delivered, it can weaken the collaboration and communications between them, and challenges the demand forecast ability in the supply chain. Motorola does not deal directly with Vietnamese end-users but through retailers. This creates difficulties for Motorola to adapt to the trend in smart phone market, reducing the responsiveness of the supply chain. Opportunities: Improving telecommunication infrastructure a priority of Vietnamese government, so improving the flow of information in supply chain. After WTO accession, Vietnamese logistics is more welcome to foreign investors. Third party logistics providers in Vietnam is also improving their services to more sophisticated level (Nguyen 2009), so Motorola can access to more competent third party services to fasten and improve the supply chain performance. Threat: The lack of mix transport agency (Venard 1996) forces Motorola to use more than one third party in transportation activities. The wide information sharing between the firms can raise the information security risk There is no advanced technology and information system such as EDI (Nguyen 2009.p15) to support logistics, affecting the ability for Motorola to communicate with their partners. Vietnam transportation systems is under developed with intensive roads, the lack of cargo planes and facilities (Goh Ang 2000,p.897); congested ports even in Ho Chi Minh city, only handling ships up to 25,000 DWT, causing dramatic bottleneck in supply system (Goh Ang 2000,p.901). The problems result in longer lead time and adding up logistics costs and risks, so the timeliness in Motorola distribution will also be affected. The rise in air cargo fee regarding higher demand near New Year may increase the cost of delivering USB pads to Malaysia and shipping Droid 2 in 2010. The shortage of automatic warehouse results in most material handlings are done manually (Goh Ang 2000,p.905), possibly damaging SKUs as well as lengthen lead time. Vietnamese companies are reluctant to share information (Tuang Stringer 2008.p398). This creates barriers to improve relationship and information sharing within Motorola channel partnership, decreasing demand forecasting. SWOT matrix: Strength Weakness Opportunities -Focus on improving demand management by investing in information sharing technology and improve coordination between firms in the supply chain -Continue outsource non-core activities such as transportation -Need a detailed benchmark to controlling the outsourcing activities to identify problems in those activities on time. -Maintaining and improving the relationship with third party service providers to plan the transportation as well as other activities better, which can reduce transit cost and time. Threat Choosing a local third party transportation provider since they have more understanding the roads system and transportation process. Construct an automatic distribution centers to reduce manual work in material handlings. Improve the visibility over the product flow to control the condition and timeliness of inventory and delivering. Improving partnership with firms in supply chain, especially with retailers to catch up with the trends and improve the demand forecasting. Need a strict evaluation process to choose a highly competent and responsive third party service providers 1.3 Issues: 1/ Holding high level of inventory: mostly in-transit stock due to the poor transportation infrastructure and the complicated customs procedures; safety stock due to the uncertainty in demand forecasting and transportation problems affecting supply. 2/ Long lead time: possibly regarding to the low transportation structure and vehicles, the shortage of automatic warehouse and technology facilitating ordering. 3/ Imprecise demand forecast: due to the weak relationship and communication between channel partners. 4/ Timeliness: possibly due to the unforeseen factors in transportation and material handling. Moreover, Vietnamese companies still do not pay adequate attention on on-time delivery (Nguyen 2009,p.17), which reducing the customer service quality. 5/ Inventory condition and real time information: mostly the lack of information technology to control the product flow causes this issue. Strategy Proposal: 2.1 Strategies: Considering the issues of Motorola supply chain in Vietnam, three logistics strategies are proposed to help solving the problems: transportation based third party logistics, collaborative planning, forecasting and replenishment, and RFID technology. 2.1.1 Transportation based third party logistics (3PL): A company can decide to outsource its non-core business. It is the process of shifting a part of business functions within an organization to outside providers (Fawcet, Ellram Ogden 2007,p.282). Third-party logistics means using an outside provider for some logistics activities such as transportation or warehousing (Fawcet, Ellram Ogden 2007,p.283). Transportation based third-party logistics is recommended for the case of Motorola supply chain in Vietnam, which will outsource transportation activities to a third-party logistics service provider. Advantages: Cost saving and improved services, as well as better transportation solution (Bhatnagar, Sohal Millen 1999,p.573). The specialization of the provider reduces lead time and guarantees good condition for in-transit stocks. By outsourcing non-core business, the company can focus on its core business (Bhatnagar, Sohal Millen 1999, p.573). Disadvantages: The loss of control over transportation activities. Disagreement or confusion about work priorities (Harrington 1999,p.60). Since the goal of manufacturers, using transportation-based 3PL is cost saving while the service provider aims to increase revenue, horizontal conflicts may occur between them. Although transportation-base 3PL results in several disadvantages, the strategy is still a suitable solution for transportation for Motorola supply chain. Due to the poor infrastructure of Vietnamese transportation system, there is high transporting risks. The transportation-base 3PL provider, with their specialized understanding of the system and customs procedures, has the ability to foresee and prevent risks in transporting. Thus, the stocks can be delivered on time. Moreover, lead time can be reduced due to providers specialization and highly invested facilities. Using their well-equipped vehicles, 3PL provider can also ensure the condition of in-transit stock, which is very important for electronics products such as Droid 2. Overall, customer service will be improved 2.1.2 Collaborative planning, forecasting and replenishment (CPFR): CPFR is an approach to coordinate activities such as production and purchasing planning, forecasting demand and stock replenishment between trading partners in supply chain base on Web technology (Fliedner 2003). It improves forecasting and increase product availability using synchronized replenishment, so customers will be served better at lower cost (Fawcet, Ellram Ogden 2007,p.482). The strategy required an intense collaboration between trading partners and technology system such as EDI to facilitate the information exchange. The strategy includes nine main activities. Activities in CPFR process (Danese 2007,p182) After agreeing on working methods, how to solve problems and location of meeting, collaborative partners join business plan together. Each company will do their own sales forecast and share them on an CPFR system. If there is too many differences in the two forecasts, the system will alert them and both partners will get together to solve and produce an accurate forecast. After that, manufacturer will forecast the way they produce and supply for retailer, as retailer will also forecast how to receive the order, and CPFR system will ensure the two order forecasts are matched, otherwise two parties will sit together again to work out the difference. Then, the CPFR forecast will be translated into production and replenishment plan, and order delivery (Coyel et al 2009,p.252). CPFR business model (Coyel et al 2009.p153). Advantages: Increase accurate forecasting, leading to better match between supply and demand (Murphy Wood 2008). Reduce inventory holding due to accurate forecasting and replenishment. Disadvantages: The risk of sharing sensitive information to other companies (Fliedner 2003). The high cost of implementing technology (Fliedner 2003), especially EDI system for information exchange. Although the system is complex and costly, a technological enterprise such as Motorola is able to adapt and utilize CPFR. CPFR reduces order response times for retailers and cycle times for manufacturers, so the strategy will contributes to shorter lead time of Motorola supply chain overall. Moreover, the accurate CPFR forecast will enhance on-time delivery the products to customer, especially in cases of introducing upgrading AGT software or a new Droid version. Furthermore, accurate forecasting increases the certainty in demand, so preventing overstock and stock-out as well as reducing safety stock holding cost, for both manufacturer and retailers. Thus, obsolescence and deterioration inventories will also be lower (Flidner 2003), which improve the stock condition, which is very important for phones batteries. Overall, applying CPFR will contribute to the performance and customer service of responsive Motorola supply chain. 2.1.3 Radio frequency identification (RFID) technology: Radio frequency identification (RFID) is a high level of using barcode, reading the information through radio frequency. RFID tag and reader are two main components of RFID system. A microchip is sticked to RFID tag and data will be written on it. The tag is placed on objects or smart cards, and the data can be read by RFID reader through radio signals (Hansen et al 2008,p.1). Unlike barcode, RFID reader does not need to reach the surface of the tag to read information. The data is transferred to the main server and shared to other information systems. RFID system (Reproduced from The Major Learn) Advantages: RFID improves inventory visibility and real time information. It enhances the control over inventory. RFID shortens lead time by reducing manual works in logistics processes. Disadvantages: Security: using RFID readers, competitors, or criminal can track the sensitive data from the tag to use against the company. Moreover, consumers privacy can be violated by too much information about them are shared through RFID. The cost of RFID implementation is expensive as a tag may cost between $0.15 to $0.75 (Michael McCathie 2005,p.6). RFID is highly recommended to be used from the manufacturing plant in Malaysia, not only Motorola Vietnam. RFID gives real time information, which assists other methods of cooperation such as CPFR (Hansen et al 2008,p.13). The inventory and product flow will become visible for the supply chain. Therefore, the manufacturer and distributors will produce and replenish for their retailers the right quantity, on time, minimizing inventory holding. Furthermore, smart phone and its accessories are highly vulnerable, and RFID will help ensure the condition of Droid 2 storage and movement as well as minimize human errors in handling the stocks. Moreover, with automatic tracking on the inventory, RFID reduces picking time, resulting in shorter lead time. And the same as CPFR, Motorola has the technological experience and budget to adapt RFID. Explanation of the Multi-criteria Decision Matrix (Appendix 1) Among the three proposed strategies, CPFR is the most suitable strategy applying for Motorola supply chain. The responsive supply chain system concerns on time, so the short lead time and accurate forecast are critical. By strengthening the connection and collaboration between manufacturer and retailer in the supply chain, CPFR significantly improves the forecast to match real demand, ensuring product availability, which strengthens Motorolas competitiveness better than the others. With the planned operation and transportation, risks and lead time will be reduced. It maintains on-time delivery. Moreover, accurate production and replenishment also prevent stock out and overstock, so the cost of holding inventory is lower and the obsolete inventory can be minimized. Overall, CPFR help the Motorolas supply chain solve the broad set of issues over the two other strategies. It helps the supply chain to be more adaptive and responsive to the changing environment of smart phone market as we ll as overcome Vietnamese logistics issues. An illustration of this is JK Computers Ltd, a 3C products retailer, collaborates with its supplier, Synnex Logistics using CPFR (Chang et al 2007). After together formulating the working mechanism, JP transmits sales and inventory data to supplier in regular basic to confirm on replenishment. If there is a difference, supplier will respond to JP, so JP then identifies another supplier using its database. However, the replenishment will be approved, and supplier will inform JP about the replenishing amounts to each store on agreed time, then processing the order. After delivery, the stores put the date to information system and transmit to the head office. The replenishment is done and payment is collected monthly. Adapting CPFR with Synnex Logistics, JPs stockout rate decreased 4.95% to 2.49%, ROI increased from 1 to 1.5, capital turnover raised from 1.33 to 1.75 and service level improved from 95.05% to 97.51% (Chang et al 2007). 2.3 Key Performance Indicators (KPIs): For Motorola manufacturer and retailers in the first quarter of 2010: Reducing forecast error from 5% to 2% from January 2010. Shortening lead time from 7 days to 5 days in three months. Reducing stock-out rate from 5% to 2.5% in three months. A benchmark to control the above KPIs will be formed. A weekly report will be sent to manufacturer, distributors, and retailers about the overall performance to take appropriate correction together if goals are not achieved, ensuring final KPIs reached. 2.4 Costs and Benefits of CPFR implementation: Benefits Costs Significantly improving demand forecast and planning. Better planning and simpler procedures passed between manufacturer and retailers. Thus, lead time will be reduced Stock-out, overstock can be minimized Holding less inventory so reducing cost Ensuring items will be delivered on time and in good conditions High risks: Sensitive information shared maybe caught by competitors. High cost of implementation CPFR system and facilities, and training staff Time consumed in meeting to overcome the lack of trust and set up front-end agreement. Aggregate concerns with number of forecasting and generation (Fliedner 2003). References: Bhatnagar, R Sohal, A Millen, R 1999, Third party logistics services: a Singapore perspective, International Journal of Physical Distribution and Logistics Management, vol. 29, no. 9, pp. 569-587, viewed 7 December 2009, Emerald Management Xtra database. Chang, T Fu, H Lee, W Lin, Y Hsueh, H 2007, A study of an augmented CPFR model for the 3C retail industry, Supply chain management: An international journal, vol. 12, no. 3, pp. 200-209, viewed 8 December 2009, Emerald Management Xtra database. Coyle, J Langley, C Gibson, B Novack, R Bardi, E 2008, Supply Chain Management: A Logistics Perspective, 8th edn, Cengage Learning, USA. Danese, P 2007, Designing CPFR collaborations: insights from seven case studies, International Journal of Operation Production Management, vol.27, no. 2, pp.182, viewed 7 December 2009, Emerald Management Xtra database. Fawcett, S Ellram, L Ogden, J 2007, Supply chain management from vision to implementation, Pearson Education, USA, pp.282-283. Fliedner, G 2003, CPFR: an emerging supply chain tool, Industrial Management Data System, vol 103, no. 1, pp. 14-21, viewed 7 December 2009, Emerald Management Xtra database. Goh, M Ang, A 2000, Some logistics realities in Indochina, International Journal of Physical Distribution and Logistics Management, vol.30, no. 10, viewed 6 December 2009, Emerald Management Xtra database. Hansen, W, Gillert, F, Cox, K Schmid, V 2008, RFID for the optimization of business process, John Wiley Sons, Great Britain. Harrington, L 1999, 3PL subcontracting: whos handling your business? Transportation distribution, vol. 40, issue 6, pp.60, viewed 7 December 2009, Business Source Premier database. Michael,K McCathie,L 2005, The pros and cons of RFID in supply chain management, University of Wollongong, viewed on 2 November, 2009, Nguyen, H 2009, Logistics system Vietnam versus Singapore, Vietnam logistics review, vol. 22, no.1, pp. 15-18. Nguyen, PT 2009, Expectations for Vietnamese 3PL service businesses, Vietnam logistics review, viewed 6 December 2009, . TheMajorLearn 2008, Overview RFID Guardian software, viewed on 10 November 2009, . Tuang, A Stringer, C 2008, Trust and commitment in Vietnam: the industrial distributors perspective, International Journal of Emerging Markets, vol. 3, no. 4, pp. 905, viewed 7 December 2009, Emerald Management Xtra database. Venard, B 1996, Vietnamese distribution channels, International Journal of Retail Distribution Management, vol. 24, no. 4, pp. 32, viewed 6 December 2009, Business Source Premier database.

The Hotel Industry Of United Arab Emirates Tourism Essay

The Hotel Industry Of United Arab Emirates Tourism Essay First of all we will be analyzing the Hotel Industry of United Arab Emirates (UAE) using Industry Life Cycle Model. Then after deciding the stage in which the industry is, we will be analyzing the threats and opportunities associated with the industry using Michael Porters Five Forces model. Then after deciding the threats and opportunities respectively, we will be deciding the business level strategies that will be best for our growth and development. This selection of business level strategy will be on the basis of Michael Porters Generic Business-Level Strategies. Then we will be analyzing the areas that can prove to be our strength and then we will be deciding the functional strategies accordingly. The selection of the functional strategies will be according to the Value Chain Model. After that we will be having the internal analysis of our capabilities in order to mark our presence in the industry. Then the suitable business model will be proposed according to the resources avai lable and constraints. Further we would be focusing on our mission, vision and our goals and finally the conclusion. 2. External Analysis: Industry Life Cycle: The life cycle of an industry is very similar to a persons life cycle. Just as a person takes birth, then grows, matures and finally dies, similarly the industry also experiences such phases. The various stages of industry life cycle are: i. Early  Stages Phase   It is the first stage when any industry comes up. The main focus is this phase is design of the product i.e. the different firms try to attract as many customers as possible to create the domain and boundaries of the industry. ii. Innovation Phase In this phase the main focus is on the process design rather than on the product design. The competitors try to sustain the customers by providing attractive services or adopting creative processes. This phase also helps in designing energy efficient practices. iii. Cost or Shakeout Phase   Here the dominance of the major players in the industry is clearly shown. The established firms force the smaller players to leave the industry by acquiring them or by achieving economies of scale which makes it difficult for a smaller firm to survive in the market. iv. Maturity   Once the industry is established the focus shifts from growth to market share. Companies try to earn as much profit as they can. Market share becomes the main attraction for a company. v. Decline   After seeing the happy days, the industry has to face this phase also. There comes a significant decline in the sales of the firms, they no longer are able to attract new customers but also the older customers are also decreasing. The hotel industry in UAE is in its maturity phase definitely. A number of facts and figures support this. UAE is being famous for organizing a number of events (sport events, trade fairs, business meetings etc.) due to its profound infrastructure and world class facilities in terms of transportation, hospitality. This has attracted a large number of people from countries all over the world including Europe, Asia, and America for the last many years. Definitely this is possible when there is an established Hotel Industry having world class facilities in UAE. Dubai has also been voted as one of the top ten desirable places to be visited by the people all over the world. This clearly shows that the hotel industry in United Arab Emirates is established and is in a healthy state. It has been estimated that about 500,000 new staff will be required in the hotel industry in UAE over the next five years. Thus hotel industry will help in the economic development of UAE as it will be providing employment to a large number of people in the upcoming years. Also a handsome amount of foreign currency will be earned that will further help in the development of United Arab Emirates. Michael Porter Competitive Forces model analysis: The threat of the entry of new competitors: Since the hotel industry is an established industry in UAE there is very little threat for any established player from new entrants. On the other hand it is definitely a challenging task for a new entrant to enter and keep the pace up with the already established players, as they have an upper hand in adopting new strategies. Thus for a new entrant in the Hotel Industry in UAE it is better to enter through merger or acquisition with an already famous brand name. Alternatively in order to survive, the new entrant can come up with some innovative idea that has not been implemented by the existing players. In terms of legal issue, there is no major barrier being established by the law and regulations. However there are laws when a new player (including foreign player) wants to enter the industry. The intensity of competitive rivalry: Definitely there is a very strong competition among the established rivals like Burj Al Arab, Sheraton Dubai Creek, and Dubai 7 Star Hotel etc. Thus this is definitely a threat for a new entrant as the customer loyalty is one of the major factors in the hotel industry. The customers prefer to stick to the hotels they used to visit unless and until some other hotel is providing something exceptional. Thus this can be considered a major threat because even if a new player is able to make entry in the industry, it will be very difficult for him to survive in such a competitive environment. The threat of substitute products or services: The threat of substitute products or services is somewhat low in this case as the substitutes of hotels and restaurants cannot be much. The alternatives will again be some hotels with different specialties or features that make it stand alone from the rest. Thus it can be considered to be an opportunity for any new player as UAE is organizing a number of events in 2011 and subsequent years. Some of these events are Dubai International Parachuting Championship and Gulf Cup, Dubai trade fair and conference, Dubai Shopping Festival etc. This will attract a large number of people to Dubai. Thus it can be considered as an opportunity for a new entrant as well. The bargaining power of customers (buyers): Here in UAE customers do have the bargaining power with them as there are a large number of hotels with similar facilities available. The customers can anytime switch to another hotel whenever they feel dissatisfied with a particular hotel. Thus bargaining power of customers can prove to be a threat for a new entrant. The bargaining power of suppliers: The bargaining power of suppliers comes into light when there are many buyers or customers for the product they produce or they are limited number of suppliers of a particular item. Here in the Hotel Industry the suppliers can be the real decorators, real state builders, raw material suppliers, crockery suppliers etc. There are a large number of suppliers of all these basic requirements. Thus the suppliers do not have a very significant bargaining power and hence do not provide much threat to the Hotel Industry in United Arab Emirates. Thus some of the forces of the Michael Porters model appear to be a threat for a new entrant whereas others provide opportunities and new prospects for the new entrants. 3. Business- Level Strategy Michael Porter has laid down several Generic Business-Level Strategies to neutralize the threats and at the same time exploit the available opportunities. He has basically categorized the Business- Level Strategies in basically three broad heads. These are used by different business people to have a competitive advantage over others. The three categories are Cost Leadership strategy, Differentiation Strategy and Focus Strategy. The strategies are based on two dimensions: namely strategic scope and strategic strength. Strategic scope is a dimension that is based on the demand whereas strategic strength is a dimension based on the supply side. Strategic scope deals with the composition and the size of the targeted market whereas strategic strength looks at the core competency of the business. Cost Leadership strategy: This strategy aims at producing the products and services at the minimum possible rate. Then the firm sells its products at either the average market price or sometimes even less than the average market price. Selling at average price helps a firm to make profits while selling at a price even less than the average price helps a firm to acquire market share. The cost leadership strategy is applied in a wide market where there are a large number of buyers and sellers. The cost leadership is achieved by improving the efficiency of the various processes involved, by acquiring the materials at a lower rate, vertical integration and minimizing the wastage. Here in the Hotel Industry of United Arab Emirates (UAE) outperforming the established players on the basis of price is definitely a very challenging task because all the major hotels are into existence for a very long time. Thus they know how to deal or change strategies. Thus for a new hotel venture cost leade rship is quite difficult to achieve and can only be implemented with some new innovative plans. Differentiation Strategy: This strategy focuses on developing unique products and providing unique services. This allows business firms to decide their own prices which can be more than that what is charged by the competitors. This helps the firm to capture a large market share and that too with making handsome profits. Here in the Hotel Industry, product differentiation strategy can play a crucial role in making a hotel distinguish from others. Thus a new entrant can come up with a differentiation strategy that will make him stand distinguished from others. The new entrant can specialize in particular area, this will him to attract the customers. c) Focus Strategy: This strategy focuses on a narrow aspect that is either on differentiation or on the cost advantage. The new entering Hotel should better focus on a narrow segment of the industry. This will help in gaining the new loyal customers as the services being provided to them will be better. The firms having focus strategy are likely to have lower market share as they are targeting a particular section of the industry initially. Thus the new Hotel entering in UAE hotel industry should initially focus on a particular section of the industry and should then expand itself. Thus it will be best for the entering Hotel to adopt differentiation strategy as it will attract the customers. 4. Functional-Level Strategies Michael Porters Value Chain Model divides the activities at either support activities or primary activities. The primary activities include: Inbound logistics: It includes transportation scheduling, storing, inventory control etc. These are basically the requirements that are necessary for the production of any product or service. Operations (production): It includes assembling, packaging, maintenance of equipment, testing and packaging. These are associated with all the process from product (service) design, manufacturing, quality testing. Outbound logistics: It includes all those areas which are required to transfer the finished goods to the customer like warehouses. The manufactured products are transferred from the store of the company to the warehouse or store of the retailer so that he can further transfer the goods to the customers. Marketing and sales (demand): The activities covered in this step are the product value enhancing techniques like advertising, promotion, pricing, selling. Depending on the aim or objective of the organization the money spent on marketing strategy can vary significantly from a very small amount to very large budgets. Services (maintenance): It includes services like customer support, selection, management, training, upgrading etc. Some of the services can be on-site while in some the customer is required to come at the office of the organization itself. The support activities include: Administrative infrastructure management: Includes planning management, accounting, public affairs, quality management etc. Human resource management: The activities being focused here are related to the human labor management like recruiting, educating, compensating, Technology (RD): Focuses on the involvement of technology to support the activities of value chain, like process automation, process up gradation etc. Procurement: Activities related to procurement of items like raw materials, servicing, spare parts, machines etc are covered in this. Therefore the smart selection of the primary and support activities for the Hotel entrant in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Hotel industry becomes very crucial. The one of the most important activity here for new entrant in the Hotel Industry is a proper selection of the Human work force as it plays a very significant role in this industry. A proper selection of Hotel managers, chefs, workers will help to attain new heights easily. Another important activity includes a very effective management which includes planning, organizing, leading and controlling of the workforce. This management plays a significant role in reducing the cost associated with any service provided by the hotel. The other primary activity that should be given appropriate focus is the services that are being offered that are aimed by the Hotel entering in UAE hotel industry. The services should be such that the consumers feel completely satisfied. The use of technology can ease the work of hotel management departm ent. Some of the work that can be easily managed with use of technology is the maintenance of a database system providing information regarding the rooms occupied, employee database, the information regarding the people coming to the hotel, automated billing system etc. This will help the hotel to provide quality and fast services which will further help the managers to focus their attention on other tasks as well. A proper strategy for the advertising of the hotel is also very important because that is something that will force the customers to leave their regular hotels and try the new one. Thus a proper and adequate amount of resources should be dedicated for the marketing purpose.    5. Internal analysis: The various capabilities for the new entrant (including having technologically advanced management, proper procurement, advertising, focused perspective etc.) can be a real bliss for the new entrant. For instance if the new hotel which is coming up in the industry has a proper planning of how to implement the automated system in all the activities (maintaining database of employees and customers, billing etc), it will be much easier for it to implement as compared to an existing hotel as its system has been designed in that way for many years and it will be difficult to shift to the technology. Other capability of the new Hotel that cannot be easily copied by the competitor is the innovative interior design of the rooms, reception, dining hall and other outdoor structures like swimming pools, lawns, parking etc. These better designs cannot be immediately imitated by the competitors because the change will require the redesigning and reconstruction which in itself is definitely a time taking process. Also the specialization in a particular type of food or beverages cannot be immediately copied by other rivals because for that new workers and chefs are required to be recruited which by any means is not an easy task. Also, as UAE is organizing a lot many events in the upcoming years a lot many tourists will come to UAE therefore having a proper advertising plan (online, magazines, newspaper, hoardings etc) will also be very beneficial for the new hotel. Also the hotel can provide some attractive packages like free city tour, or some discount on the hotel rates and food rates. This will help the hotel to make a beginning in the industry where already there are a number of established hotels like Burj Al Arab, Le Royal Meridien Resort, etc. 6. Business Model: The various components of a perfect business model are: Value proposition It is a complete picture of the problem of the customer, the process or the method that should be used to solve that problem and the values that should be taken into account while actually solving the problem. Here in UAE hotel industry the problem or objective is the hotel services to the customers. The process involved in providing those services includes clean and maintenance of the hotel, proper food facilities, proper lightning and water supply in the rooms. Market segment This component selects which segment of the market should be targeted according to the need or requirements in the market and then selecting which customers to target, so that the firm can acquire a large proportion of the market. Also focus on different segments of the market help the organization to create innovative processes as different strategies have to be adopted in different areas. The hotel industry of United Arab Emirates (UAE) is also divided into a number of segments. Sometimes need for expensive hotels come while at some other time cheap hotels may be in demand. Generally the expensive hotels are in demand for arranging business meetings whereas cheaper hotels may be preferred during some fair. Value chain structure It evaluates the position of the firm in the industry and how can the firm capture a major part of the value created by the firm. It can be a very important factor in the deciding that which hotel has how much share of the market and how the new entrant can vary its plans in order to capture the same. Revenue generation and margins This figures out the ways in which the revenue can be generated. The different steps could be support, sales, annual subscription etc. The firm always tries to maximize the revenue generated by the operation of the firm like selling products, or providing services. Here the upcoming hotel will try to find out the areas where the revenue generation possibilities exist. It is basically the exploration of the market areas which are still unexplored by the other competitors. Position in value network In this step the complementary firms and industries are identified. These complementary firms also need to be as competitive because since both industries are interdependent they need to be moving at the same pace. This will help in deciding that which hotels will be rivals and which other industries are must for the existence and the progress of the hotel industry. Competitive strategy Making profits only for the one time is not the motive of any firm. Every firm tries to sustain its profits making processes over larger time so as to prosper at a regular pace so that they can be at par with the major rivals. The new hotel will try not only to make one time profit, but the profits margin should increase steadily with time. The business models itself are very important factor in the success and profits of an organization. Thus the implementation of the above mentioned steps in a pre decided sequence is very important for the progress of a new hotel like us. We intend to enter the hotel industry of UAE by first opening a hotel and then expanding it as a chain in all the Emirates of Arab while at the same time providing the world class facilities in terms of hospitality, infrastructure, recreation, food, service and all the areas that befall under a hotel. As far as the business model is concerned we would mainly focus on the differentiation strategy that will attract the loyal customers of other hotels as well as the new customers also. This differentiation strategy includes all those things that are not focused by the established hotel names in United Arab Emirates. The functional strategies include adoption of a proper procurement process, effective management of all the resources (human, material etc), and moreover a separately focused advertising plan to spread to whole of UAE. As far as the core or the distinct competencies are considered, our main focus will be on the quality of service to the customers. We will be having the qualified managers and workers and most of them having past experience. This will help us serve the customers in a better way. 7. Mission, Vision, Values, and Goals: Our mission is to make an impressive entry in the Hotel Industry of the United Arab Emirates with quality customer service as our priority. It also includes attracting the tourists that will be arriving in UAE to attend events like Dubai Shopping Festival, Dubai International Parachuting Championship and Gulf Cup, Dubai trade fair and conference and many more. First of all we look forward to come up with a single but unique Hotel in the industry. As far as our vision is concerned we hope to have a chain of hotel all over the Emirates of Arab and become a famous name in the Hotel Industry of UAE. We value the customer as our main area of focus because customer satisfaction plays a very important role in long term run. Also our employees are a big asset for us and hence we value their satisfaction as one of our other priority. Without proper human resources it is not possible to survive in this industry. Our goal is to provide the tourist all the facilities that can ever think of. Some of these include providing best possible service, providing as many types of food types that can be possible, proper hospitality so that the tourists coming from all over the world should feel like A home away from home. 8. Conclusion Based on all the above mentioned strategies and plans we expect to make significant progress both in the short as well as the long term. Although we know that are a number of established players in the market which have their presence in every single area of the area, but we are quite positive about are plans and the strategies. It may be a bit difficult in the initial startup but the things will definitely work our way once we get a start. Also the initial profits may be somewhat less but in the long run we will definitely be able to outperform the existing major players. Our main focus as already mentioned above will be the Customer Satisfaction that will become an asset for us in the sustainable growth and development in the Hotel Industry of United Arab Emirates (UAE). This will help us in attracting the local as well as foreign visitors, tourists, business delegates etc to our hotel. Therefore the prospects of making huge success are quite bright, thus a properly planned and eff ective implementation of the strategies decided above will help us to achieve new heights in the Hotel Industry of United Arab Emirates (UAE). Diagrams: 1.Porters Generic Business Strategies: E:documentsgeneric-strategies-porters-mbaknol.jpg 2. Porters Five Forces ModelE:documentsPorter_Five_Forces1.jpg.png 3. The Value Chain Model E:documentsporter-value-chain.png 4. Business Model: E:documentsbusinessModel.jpg

Genetic Engineering: There is No Genetic Definition of Humanity Essay

With advances in genetics and the decryption of the human genome, many people are taking the time to sit back and ponder the questions of what humanity is and where it comes from.1 Will techniques such as gene therapy eventually create people who aren't quite human? If humanity is a flexible and ever-changing concept, then how do people know if they are human? Does some standard measure of humanity seem likely in our future, and is it even ethically proper to impose such a standard? Philosophy offers the most satisfying definition of humanity: a human person is a conscious individual who interacts with an outside world. The details of the various philosophical debates on the exact nature of personhood would be enough to fill a library, but the main ideas can be summarized as follows: a person is self-aware, having the ability to think about thinking. Nothing in this definition of humanity involves matters of genetics or quantitative analyses of specific traits, which makes this definition applicable to people who may not be human in the way science tries to define the term. Defining humanity in a scientific sense, however, is a nettled endeavor. Many "strictly human" traits can be found in animals. Wolves have a complex social structure. Bonobos, a subspecies of chimpanzee, can learn an abstract symbol-language and show the ability to understand grammar and syntax.2 In other experiments dolphins-who are genetically more distant from humans than bonobos-learned a type of sign language showing that they, too, are able to grasp complex rules of language.3 One only has to yell at the family dog to see that animals can express emotion and empathy. What, then, is left to humans? Many point to our advanced technology as proof... ... 1. This paper was originally written for the course, "Human Genetics, Society, and Ethics," held at Washington College, Chestertown, Maryland. 2. Robert A. Baron, Psychology 5th ed. (Boston: Allyn and Bacon, 2000). 3. Baron. 4. N. A. Campbell, J. B. Reece, and L. G. Mitchell, Biology 5th ed., (New York: Addison Wesley Longman, 1999). 5. Matt Ridley, Genome: The Autobiography of a Species in 23 Chapters (New York: HarperCollins Publishers, 1999) 24. 6. Ibid. 7. Baron. 8. Ridley, 24. 9. Ibid. 10. Campbell et al., 446. Bibliography Baron, Robert. A. Psychology. 5th ed. Boston: Allyn and Bacon, 2000. Campbell, N. A., J. B. Reece, and L. G. Mitchell. Biology. 5th ed. New York: Addison Wesley Longman, 1999. Ridley, Matt. Genome: The Autobiography of a Species in 23 Chapters. New York: HarperCollins Publishers, 1999.

Use of Foils to Illustrate Deceit in Shakespeares Hamlet :: GCSE English Literature Coursework

Use of Foils to Illustrate Deceit in Hamlet      Ã‚  Ã‚   In his play, Hamlet, William Shakespeare uses a variety of characters from different social backgrounds to paint an elaborate picture of deception. From the opening line of "Who's there?" the reader gets the impression that people are not what they seem in this play. The interrelationships between the royalty and people of the court are developed to illustrate the similarities and differences between the characters. Shakespeare skillfully reveals the deceptive nature of man and the ruin it causes through his use of foils.      Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Foils are integral to this play, because many of the devious plots are revealed to the reader through them. A foil is a secondary character that illuminates certain things about a primary character to the audience. The major character may reveal secrets, such as murderous plots or traps, or feelings, for example, a perspective on death or the love of another character. This can happen if the minor character is primarily a listener on stage. Another scenario is if two characters, major and minor, share similarities, but have distinct differences. These variations in personality will reveal something important about the main character. The "something important" could be a fatal flaw or a good point of their personality. Many foils are used in this play, but there are two important ones which happen to be for the same character.      Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Laertes is a foil for Hamlet and their deceptions are quite painful to all involved. Laertes and Hamlet are the same sex and approximately the same age.   They also both live abroad, France and Germany, respectively. Laertes and Hamlet both deeply love in different ways a maiden named Ophelia. Ophelia is Laertes' sister and receives advice from him about Hamlet. Hamlet proclaims his love and lust for Ophelia many times throughout the play. [Where in the play does he proclaim his lust for her?] For example, on page 659, [Citation] Polonius reads to the king and queen a love letter from Hamlet which states, "Doubt truth to be a liar, but never doubt I love." [This says "love," not "lust"; shame on you.] Laertes tells Ophelia that Hamlet does not love her, that she is just a passing fancy to the prince. Hamlet and Laertes both have meddling parents. Polonius, Laertes' father, sends his servant, Reynaldo, to spy on his son.

General Motors strategy and objectives Essay

GM is considered one of the world’s most treasured automotive companies over time and has attracted most loyalty from the esteemed customers in the automobile industry. To the suppliers and dealers, the GM has been the preferred business partner. To investors, GM means a blue chip holding by virtue of a long-term lucrative growth. GM led the global automobile sales for the past 77years successive years from 1931 through 2007, which is longer than any other manufacturer; it’s currently among the world’s largest vehicle manufacturer. General Motors strategy and objectives The GM Company operates to produce the highest quality automobiles in the market worldwide and in its recent strategies it has emerged among the best in terms of embracing new technology, business diversification. Out of the total number of automobile it produced in the year 2012, 72% of them were purchased. This is a positive indication of the influence and loyalty the firm has attained in the market. The sector of automotive is experiencing a lengthy period of declined profitability and sales. To ensure future growth, GM has proposed three strategies; Retrenchment strategy focuses on product redevelopment, more specifically brand reinvention. The next approach to GM’s redevelopment is a growth strategy, which has the option of expanding GM into emerging countries. The last strategy, is a restructuring strategy which explains a way to raise profits in the long term by revising the current pension plans and health care. The main strategy focuses on the retrenchment strategy it provides the greatest amount of near-term and sustainable profitability. How should GM use its scarce financial and human resources to stop its slide? GM needs to become more competitive and turn around its financial performance and ensure long-term profitability. For the past four years, GM has successfully been formulating and implementing effective strategies to enhance growth and profits in its worldwide market and some of these strategies include, investing almost $11 billion of its capital of 35 U.S.in expanding its facilities and since 2009 it has done so to ensure, more efficient productivity and to form higher quality vehicles. The joint projects in China, which have been constructing new factories that are anticipated to improvement the company’s production capacity by about 30 % to more than usual 5 million units annually by the coming year of 2015. So far in Europe, Opel that is one of GM’s affiliates is undertaking among the largest product belligerent in its history and is introducing 23 new vehicles and ten new engines due 2016 In addition, the South America’s GM affiliate energized its Chevrolet product inventory with a full assortment of refined, fuel-efficient and technologically advanced automobiles. In its process of relocating the GM headquarter to achieve a consolidated international operations to other parts like Singapore, which will help in sharpen the companies of south Asia region, Human Resource Balance scorecard is used to measure the performance of the financial and non-financial situation in General Motors Company. The score card entails financial perspective, customer perspective, internal perspective, and growth perspective. It enables General Motors to develop a comprehensive view of their operations and to better all operating and investment activities to long and short-term strategic objectives (Mural, 2008). Balance scorecard improves employee satisfaction and increases employees motivation, in general ensures human capital development. High-performance work system Open systems, autonomous work teams and performance-based pay are known as high-performance work system (Rouse, 2000). The system is known as a high involvement work system, high commitment, and flexible work systems. In GM there are only three factors that affect the high-performance work system; technology, retrenchment of employees and layout design. Retrenchment will cause GM lose employees who are much talented and subsequently lose a competitive edge. To surviving in a competitive environment, the company must rely on their workers creativity, strong teamwork, and problem-solving ability. The use of technology is a feature in the high-performance work system, all managers in every department of GM must be able to identify the technology they use in their firm. The information System can store data on employees that can help managers in deciding which employee is performing or not. Layout of GM offices and production plants is required to design to increase employee’s pro ductivity. The job designing would be performed well by the human resource manager. GM should come up with the proposals to transform the existing layout to an improved sustainability working layout. Sustainability strategies The company has adopted a Customer-Driven Sustainability strategy over the past few years. Its priorities have largely concentrated on building the foundation of the global sustainability practice, which aims at achieving the following, †¢ Creation of operational and product guarantees †¢ Identification of impact effective areas †¢ Enlargement of sustainability reporting practices and publication of the report †¢ Formation and alignment of corporate strategies and positions †¢ Development of processes for consistent global effecting, Most part of the foundational efforts is already completed, and the company anticipates spending the next several years of the building industry leadership in those areas of sustainability where we can make the greatest impact. Innovations that grow business by presenting new products and services that clients long for, while helping GM in responding to big trends and solving environmental issues and social disquiets.Integration that enhances sustainability is adopted embraced at all levels in GM at the global, regional and local stages across all strategic utilities and are vital in all the company’s undertakings. Transparency that is vital in building trust and accountability via the development of commitments to measure as well as manage progress through regular disclosure and reporting. Engagement with employees is encouraged in order creating a sustainable mindset in the whole company and with the external stakeholders to look for opinions on issues of concern and input for further improvements. Marketing GM has decided to reduce its product portfolios and direct the focus on Chevrolet, Cadillac as its â€Å"full-line marquis. The move is a drastic moving from their previous marketing strategy which includes offering an assortment of vehicles for every brand. This marketing strategy is formulated in order to prevent the opportunity for overlapping products. Instead of producing too many average vehicles, General Motors will be able to focus on great vehicles that will make the brand stand out. The Detroit News stated that all three brands GMC, Buick, and Pontiac will be offered under a single dealership. This change was made to increase productivity and branding within each dealership. Market information The following is a representation of the data that was adopted from the New York Stock Exchange and Toronto Stock Exchange. The Quarterly price variations based on the high and low prices from day to day trades of the GM common stock on the New York Stock Exchange, the principal market through which the stock is traded, are as follows (GM Annual report. Years Ended December 31, 2012 2011 2012 2011 High Low High Low Quarter HIGH LOW HIGH LOW1st . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $27.08 $20.75 $39.18 $30.00 2nd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $27.0030 $19.24 $30.47 $28.17 3rd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. $25.01$18.72 $32.08 $19.77 4th. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $28.88 $57.67 $26.55 $17.10 GM Company and its subsidiaries Successor Predecessor Years Ended December 31, July 10, 2009 Through December 31, 2009 January 1, 2009 July 9, 2009 Year Ended December 31, 2012 2011 2010 2008 Income Statement Data: Total net sales and revenue (a) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $152,254 $150,277 $135,591 $ 59,474 $ 47,115 $148,979Reorganization gains, net (b) . . . . . $128,155 $ Income (loss) from continuing operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 6,134 $ 9,286 $ 6,502 $ (3,786) $109,003 $ (31,051) Net (income) loss attributable to non-controlling interests . . . 52 (97) (331) 511) 115 108 Net income (loss) attributable to stockholders (c) . . . . . . . . . $ 6,88$ 9,190$ 6,12 $ (4,297) $08,106 $(30,719) Net income (loss) from common stockholders . . . . $ 4,86 $ 7,585$ 4,608 $ (4,428) $109,118 $ (30,941) GM $0.01 par value common stock and Old GM $1-2/3 par Value common stock Basic earnings (loss) per share: (d)Net income (loss) from common Stockholders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 3.11 $ 4.95 $ 3.12 $ (3.58) $ 178.63 $ (53.47) Diluted earnings (loss) per share: (d)Net income (loss) attributable to common Stockholders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 2.91 $ 4.59 $ 2.88 $ (3.58) $ 178.55 $ (53.47) SWOT Analysis Strengths; it has manufacturing distribution, assembly offices and also warehouses operations in 55 countries.GM is well rooted not only in U.S but also throughout the world. GM shares are still aggressive in China experiences will make them come back in the competition. However, variety of different brands help them to reach all target markets. Weaknesses: GM has a debt with the government. Poor organizational structure since there is a lack of communication between employees from the top to bottom, profitability is decreasing. Downsizing thousands of people.Opportunities: GM can use its competitors ideas to get back, they still have loyal customers. Increasing demand for hybrid/electric vehicles, GM still have Opportunities in emerging markets. Changing clients demand new model types. Threats: The gas prices are increasing rapidly; competition is developing new car styles and efficient. The rising raw materials prices and environmental emission standards. The crisis is a threat in the USA, Europe, and Asia. Social responsibility GM addresses health and vitality of the global communities through financial contributions like donations and volunteer initiative. GM invests in projects that improves health, education, and safety and also address the needs for technology and innovation. Their actions are guided by values; they are the drivers of their decisions, essence of their code of conduct. At GM social responsibility starts with their core values particularly the values of integrity, individual responsibility, and respect. All their corporate activities are measured against these values. They put their values into practice through their Winning with Integrity guideline employee conduct. This summarizes their important legal obligations and policies in the conduct of the business. In summary, GM is working on building solutions to the challenges of the community involvement every day because they need to be a trusted company. Conclusion The determined relevant market value at the date of the overall financial statements applies to the complete year, in spite of the appropriate market value calculated during the previous quarters of the current year. Using the two-class technique to analyze basic earnings per a single share and the increased dilutive of the two-class or converting method to calculate diluted earnings per share in the previous due December 31 of 2012 and 2011. The two-class method for computing EPS, as well as undistributed earnings are oftenly allocated to common stock and the Series B Ideal Stock according to its respective contribution rights in the undistributed revenues, as if all the earnings for the time had been exhaustively been distributed.(Form 10-K Annual Report, P36-41). Unpredictability may result in calculating of earnings per share from time to time subject to whether the application of the two-class technique is essential. The application of the two-class technique occasioned to an allocation of undistributed incomes to the Series B as Preferred Stockholders and, consequently, 152 million common stock equivalent from the already conversion of the Series B Preferred Stock are usually not considered outstanding for purposes of determining the weighted-average mutual shares outstanding in the computation of diluted paychecks per share in the years (GM press release, January 2012) .December 31, 2012to the year ended2011.The MLC circulated approximately 272 million permits for its common stock for its unsecured creditors including the GUC Trust. The warrant holders can use their covers at any time proceeding to their respective expiration dates (GM press release, January 2012). Upon exercising of these warrants, the shares allotted will be encompassed in the number of basic dividends remaining that are used in the calculation of earnings per share. The securities and license necessary to buy 313 million shares of the common stock were unsettled at December 31, 2012 and 2011, and in which46 million shares were exempted in every year’s calculation of diluted incomes per share because the warrants’ exercise price was more than the prevailing market average worth of the common shares(GM press release, January 2012). Under the capital stock method, the presumed undertaking of the unsettled permits resulted in over 104 million and 130 million dilutive shares in the two consecutive years ended on December 31, 2012 and 2011.Diluted earnings per share comprised of the consequence of 15 million and 13 million investment in RSUs arranged to certain global executives in the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011.In July 2011, the 61 million dividends of common stock funded the pension plans of January 2011 met the criteria to be eligible as plan resources for bookkeeping resolutions. The shares were considered unresolved for incomes per share purposes opening in July2011 (GM press release, January 2012). The totals in the year concluded on December 31, 2012 include dwindling charges relating to the investment in PSA of about $220 million, Income linked to numerous insurance retrievals of $169 million, a fee of $119 million in connection with the entry into the contract to sell the GMS business, which later led in a drop in the carrying value to proposed fair value, and appreciation of deferred returns from technology contracts with SGMW of $115 million(GM press release, January 2012). He total figures concluded in the year ended December 31, 2011included impairment charges associated to the investment of Ally Financial of $555 million, which is reflected as a gain on the sale of Ally Financial favored shares of $339 million, and appreciation of deferred revenue from technology contracts with SGMW of $113 million. On the other hand, the amounts in the year ended December 31, 2010 include the gains from the reversal of an accumulation for contingently issuable shares of GM Company common stock to the MLC of $162 million, which was a gain accrued after the sale of Saab valued $123 million, this resulted in an improvement on the acquisition of GMS of $66 million and an increase on the sale of Nexteer of $60 million (GM Annual Report, p51-58). References â€Å"GM Delivered 9.7 Million Vehicles Globally in 2013† (Press release). General Motors. Accessed 11th December 2014 â€Å"Form 10-K Annual Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 for the Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 2012 Commission File Number 001-34960. Accessed 11th December 2014 General Motors Company† (PDF). General Motors. February 15, 2013. Archived from the original on August 6, 2013. Accessed 11th December 2014 â€Å"About GM: GM Corporate Officers†. Media.gm.com. June 19, 2012. Accessed 11th December 2014 GM Press Release (January 20, 2012). â€Å"GM global sales up 7.6% in 2011 to 9.026M vehicles; China and US largest markets†. Green Car Congress. Accessed 11th December 2014 Source document