Analysis of the Curriculum for Career Samples †MyAssignmenthelp.com

Question: Are Business Students Work-ready? Answer: This article proposes a model for examining the undergraduate students regarding their competency level in employability skills. The study compares the current mind gap with the hypothesis of the authors that the business graduates do not have specific soft skills that are fundamental to management. The authors reasoned that the employability skills receive much attention in higher education; however, the performance of the business graduates at work is below average. To successfully conduct the survey, the authors gathered data from 1008 Australian business graduates using an online survey. The research outcomes found out that graduates performance was weak in conflict resolution, meta-cognition, management skills, and decision making. Based on their research findings, the researchers realized that the competence level of business students at work is determined by various factors. These factors include the geographical/physical location, background culture, type of undergraduate edu cations, and former experience at work. The limitation of the research is that it assumes that employment is guaranteed once specific non-technical skills are acquired. This article was significant in providing the factors that could lead to the acquisition of essential knowledge by the business students which will make them more employable. However, further research on the shift of non-technical skills to work from the university should be done seeing that this research had this limitation. The authors of this article consider a qualitative study to examine the course curriculum that produces work-ready graduates. The survey considered only China, United States, and China but still, the outcomes could be generalized to other countries. The authors reasoned that business students could be work ready if they were subjected to the quality of the curriculum. The authors further assert that the curriculum should focus on the theoretical aspects of various disciplines in addition to the practical elements such as case studies and business simulations. The main limitation of this study is the low response rate in which only China and US and an overall weak response (n=26). This article was useful for it highlights the fundamental features of curriculum that can make it joyful to the students. Student participation is an aspect that could enhance the employability of business graduates. This information suggests that students should actively be involved the course curriculum an d that they should not only acquire theoretical training but should practically implement them in various aspects of the business. The author researched to determine the perspective of the student on employability. The authors explored the responses of over 400 business students from various disciplines. The authors findings showed that students in most cases are unwilling to face the tasks and problems when they enter the job industry. Furthermore, it is not possible that the graduates acquire all the needful theoretical knowledge and skills for work completion. Though, the graduates may lack the business expertise and the real-world knowledge. The author exerts that academic education is mandatory for jobs, even though it is not the only prerequisite. The balanced and successful case scenario is for companies to engage graduates with exceptional theoretical knowledge and excellent practical exposure. This article is of benefit to the students for it points out that the students should both learn the theoretical and practical aspect of things. The theoretical knowledge is imparted by the business schools, but s till, the schools are limited in the acquisition of practical knowledge. Thus, the need of experience should not be disregarded during employment because the experience of the graduates will be significant in making decisions in tough times. The author has discussed the significance of the employability skills. The researcher surveyed the UK job market using graduates from all disciplines in 38 UK higher education institutions who had graduated four years ago and analyzed the skills that are essential in the job market and the skills that business education impart. The author examined the existing literature and found out a gap between the required skills by the industry and the skills that business schools give. Based on the quantitative findings, the researcher resolved that there is no straightforward association between employability and employment. Even though skills and employability can be imparted by the business education, it doesnt warrant hiring to the graduates. The graduates will still have to learn much other stuff in the job industry. Employability is also affected by factors such as gender, social status, and the University attended. The main limitations of this research are that it utilizes self-assessed rating to collect data and there is no standard to measure skill results. This article is essential for it considers both sides of employment and employability. There are specific skills that only work experience can impart and these the business school cannot provide. Thus, the business graduates are made employable by the business schools, but still, a gap exists that only the workplace can fulfill. In this article, the authors researched to determine the work readiness of graduates with background accounting, but still, the findings can be generalized to other disciplines as well. Extant literature on the mind gap of a cross-sectional analysis of all the views of the students, employers, and alumni regarding the efficiency of accounting curriculum is the basis of the authors research. The authors strongly believe that accounting is a discipline that is vast and in which people have to develop numerous skills and competencies. These skills can be learned in the business school. The authors highlighted that business schools are significant for the imparting of accounting skills in the accounting job market. However, the learning acquired from the job market could not be undermined as well. According to the authors conclusion, a successful combination is an education from the schools of business and the training and development plans at the place of work. The primary limitations o f this research are that it only considers data from a single institution and doesnt factor in the perceptions of the graduate students. The article is essential since it develops the case that there is a willingness in business students to face the challenges in the business job market. However, they need to undergo polishing that can only come with the job experience. There doesnt exist a substitute for work experience for it enhances the ability of decision making of individuals. References Yu, Shaokun Carol, and Natalie Tatiana Churyk. "Are students ready for their future accounting careers? Insights from observed perception gaps among employers, interns, and alumni."Global Perspectives on Accounting Education10 (2013): 1. Wilton, Nick. "Do employability skills really matter in the UK graduate labour market? The case of business andmanagement graduates."Work, employment and society25, no. 1 (2011): 85-100. Tymon, Alex. "The student perspective on employability." Studies in higher education 38, no. 6 (2013): 841-856. Mitchell, Anne Marie, and Sandra Allen. "A Qualitative Analysis of the Curriculum for Career-Ready Graduates from the Perspective of Academics and Business Professionals: China, Europe and the United States." Journal of Higher Education Theory and Practice 14, no. 1 (2014): 100. Jackson, Denise. "Testing a model of undergraduate competence in employability skills and its implications for stakeholders."Journal of Education and Work27, no. 2 (2014): 220-242.

Environmental Strategies Green Crecyling

Question: Discuss about theEnvironmental Strategiesfor Green Crecyling. Answer: Current Consumption The current consumption is not good because there has been the use of facilities that do conserve energy. For example, there has been the use of bulbs, washing machines and fridges that consume a lot of energy. The fridges are also not positioned in strategic areas that can assist in energy conservation. The cooking facilities like woks are also not energy friendly. With proper energy conservation strategies, the management can be able to reduce energy usage by 80 percent. How to monitor energy consumption, Green Crecyling, water consumption and recycling Energy Consumption: One strategy of monitoring energy consumption in the kitchen is by regularly recording the amount of energy that has been consumed in a particular period. For proper monitoring of energy consumption, it is important to install separate meters for electricity and gas. Analyzing three months bills can assist in identifying how consumption has been varying from one month to the other. Green Crecycling: The most efficient way of monitoring green crecycling in a kitchen is by ensuring waste management system is present. It is good to keep a record of the data obtained from a waste scale. Some of the relevant data that must be recorded include; time and date of weighing, the net weight and loss code. Waste audits are also critical in monitoring the level of waste being generated and the cost incurred to manage the waste. It is also good to analyze the rate at which the correct bins are filled and emptied in a particular time. Water Consumption: Water consumption will be monitored by installing water consumption meter on the main pipe. Installing meters and taking the readings from time to time assist in monitoring the level of water consumption in a given time. Installing sub-meters is also important in this case because they will aid in identifying where the areas of greatest use are. Keeping records of monthly bills can also assist in monitoring how water consumption varies from one month to the other[1]. Recycling: One effective way of monitoring recycling in a kitchen is by maintaining data concerning the amount of waste recycled at a particular time. The team should regularly record the amount of waste that was successfully recycled at a particular time and the cost incurred. Step 4: Having identified sustainability, it is clear that water and energy consumption is done well. This is because the strategies used are very effective. The use of these strategies can enable the group to reduce its water and energy consumption at a great percentage[2]. To fully embrace a sustainability environment, it is good to use equipment made from sustainable materials and dodging all toxic chemicals. It is also important to equip the kitchen with energy friendly facilities like; Crock pots, pressure cookers, solar ovens, chest freezers and so forth. It is also important all cooking pots are covered while cooking in order to prevent heat loss. Using the right burner for the right purpose is also advisable. If for example one is using a small pan, it is advisable to use a small burner to prevent the wastage of electricity or gas. The use of separate meters is also ideal because it will assist in identifying the equipment which uses a lot of energy. The green team will consider all these strategies to unsure a sustainable environment has been achieved Bibliography Albino, Balice., Azzurra, Dangelico., Rosa Lacobone. The Effects of Adoption of Environmental Strategies on Greeen Product Development: A Study of Companies on World Sustainability Indices. International Journal of Management, 29, No. 2(2012): 56-71 Jody, Freeman Charles, Kolstad. Moving to Markets in Environmental Regulation: Lessons from Twenty Years of Experience. (Oxford: Oxford University Press, 20007), 34-62

Mediation and Advocacy Integration of mediation and advocacy within a human services agency

Through exploring information from different sources to find the underlying idea that is connecting the sources and the availability of information Pertaining current trends though advocacy and mediation in the human services agencies. Therefore, my prime objective is to review various spectrums of mediation and advocacy to the human services and provide knowledgeable understanding of the positive impact of integration.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Mediation and Advocacy: Integration of mediation and advocacy within a human services agency specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More To begin with, the definition of mediation refers to an act of a neutral third party who enters into negotiations with two or more conflicting parties. The aim of the mediator is find ways of initiating dialogue hence enhancing communication. This is done by trying to come up with an agreement or conclusion over a conflict existing between th e parties (Barsky2007). To advocate is to work on behalf of a Client in solving of cases. The advocate tries to foster a different type of relationship or employ Strategies that are likely to be appropriate depending on the issue at hand (Barsky2000). Human services agencies refer to organizations whose objective is to assist individuals improve the quality of their lives. The aim of advocates is to meet the need of the individuals though advocating for them where necessary. Advocacy and mediation are integrated into different dimensions of the human Services, it is within a human service agency on a national or international level that requires an individual who is ethical, knowledgeable, open-minded and understanding. This individual has a clearly defined stance for personal beliefs in an organization while advocating for Individuals depend on mediators. Hence advocates enlighten them of their rights and protection in order for them to seek justice where necessary. Many people pre fer advocate’s assistance due to their lack of knowledge of laws and procedures to be followed when seeking for justice and protection. The means of communication at this stage are advocated and mediated on to ensure that the relationship between parties remains intact, and solutions to their grievances are accepted by the both parties (The Association of Attorney-Mediators, 2001). This makes sure that the solution agreed upon by the conflicting parties in the presence of the mediator is respected. Therefore, my opinion is that mediation and advocacy is crucial in numerous dimensions and to be specific in the human service field. There are various conflicts that could not be resolved if somebody did not intervene to mediate. Many individuals’ rights could have been obliged, and not even an ounce of justice extended to those who deserve it in various situations.Advertising Looking for essay on communication strategies? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first p aper with 15% OFF Learn More In accordance to that a win-win situation can be established in various fields, for example, in parenthood, the National Casa Association is an organization that provides volunteers to assist the abused and neglected children. Besides, if it were not for mediation between the officials in other states, planning for Parenthood could become none exist. Victim Offender Mediation Association (VOMA) is a program that allows the person who offends others to come face to face with their victim. Trained mediators bring together the conflicting parties together to discuss along with family and friends. In the meeting, they discuss the effects of the crime committed also find a mutual plan to compensate the victim for the losses suffered due to the crime. Conclusively, this integration of advocacy and mediation has led to the general contribution of the wellness of human service agencies. This has enabled many individuals who take actions of seeking for a dvocates to protect their rights. It has also helped to resolve conflicts in the society through mediators, where by preventing the worst case scenarios. Works Cited Barsky, Allen. E. Conflict Resolution for the Helping Professions. Belmont: Wadsworth.2007.Print. The Association of Attorney-Mediators. Association of Attorney-Mediators Ethical Guidelines for Mediators. 2001. Web.1 December 2011. This essay on Mediation and Advocacy: Integration of mediation and advocacy within a human services agency was written and submitted by user Sarah Watson to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.

Marriott International

Marriott International Marriott is an international business venture, which deals with offering hospitality services to its clients. It has several business units in various countries around the world. Marriott International has been in operation for about 60 years. This has enabled it to spread its wings to 73 countries with over 3700 hotel units. It offers over twenty different brands of hotels, some of which are franchises for instance J W Marriott, The Ritz Carlton and Marriott Executive Apartments.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Marriott International specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Most of its customers are business people running business errands in multinational ventures. Mr. Marriott who is the Managing Director, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and proprietor of this group of hotels has actualized a myriad of business strategies that would not only increase the profitability of his businesses but also attract as many customers as possible. A business or corporate strategy is a long term plan of operation that directs all the activities of an organization, and aimed towards achieving competitive advantage over its competitors. Strategizing also helps a business develop proper ways to utilize its resources within a challenging business environment. Additionally, it helps a business to meet the diverse needs of its stakeholders for instance; customers, board of directors, neighboring community and government agencies. Marriott International began as a sole proprietorship formerly owned by his family several years ago, but has developed over the years into a world class group of hotels because of these strategies. The strategies employed include corporate strategies; this can be defined as a future business plan focused at improving the general scope and purpose of the business so that stakeholder’s expectations are met. Secondly, there is the business unit strategy; this is concerned with monitoring how a business competes in the market, its customer expectations and exploiting new business opportunities. Third, there is a type of strategy that deals with organizing each part of the business such as how the various business units are managed. This strategy is called operational strategy. Marriott International uses this strategy to run its various groups of hotels since they are focused on serving specific customer needs. Marriott International uses three main components to manage the selected strategies. A thoroughly selected corporate strategy just like that used by Marriott International should have a section for strategic analysis, strategic choice and strategic implementation. Strategic analysis entails conducting a Strength Weakness, Opportunity and Threat (SWOT) analysis of the business in order to determine its operational capabilities.Advertising Looking for essay on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More In addition to identifying favorable internal business factors that will steer the business towards high profit margins, external factors such as threat of entry of new competitors into the market are identified. The market is then segmented as it is the case of Marriott International. The management of Marriott’s group of hotels appreciates the fact that there are various customers with diverse needs. There are those people who will prefer being accommodated in executive hotel suits while there are those who cannot sustain a luxurious lifestyle. This strategy is called market segmentation where the management of a business decides to fragment the market according to customer convenience. This is why the Marriott groups of hotels run different hotel brands. After segmenting the market the strategic manager develops a different pricing strategy for all its diverse customers under the 4P’s of international business management. The P’s include place, p roduct, price and promotion. All these factors are then interrelated one after the other in such a way that it achieves not only efficiency but also effectiveness. The process of strategic choice involves selecting strategy options while considering the stakeholders expectations. Implementation poses the greatest challenge to many organizations since it requires translation of paper work into action. Marriott International History Marriott International was established in 1927 by Willard Marriot and his bride, Alice. The two started by putting a beer stand in Washington D.C. The beer stand could only accommodate nine people at the start of its operations. It was named â€Å"Hot Shoppe† where they prepared hot food substances like tacos, tamales and chili.Advertising We will write a custom report sample on Marriott International specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More These food items were mainly served to clients during the period of winter months. In 1929, Marriott International was officially incorporated as Hot Shoppes, inc. It experienced fast growth. In 1953, the company was listed as a public company. It laid its competitive advantage in world markets on product diversification (Hoover 2002). The company opened Twin Bridges Marriott located in Arlington, Virginia; this was the first hotel opened by the company. With its fast growing pace, Twin Bri dges Marriott went international in 1966; this happened after the company took over the running of an airline catering kitchen in Venezuela. It later changed name to Marriott Corporation in 1967. The company later engaged in series of takeovers which enabled it to grow into a billion dollar corporation. In the year 1998, Marriott International was listed in the stock market as an independent public company after which it started to focus its attention on business and leisure lodging. To ensure success in such a new venture, the company sold its superior living facilities in 2002. Marriott International continues to diversify its operations. Nonetheless, leadership of Marriott International started with the two founders, Marriot and Alice. Today, the company’s top management entails six executives operating at senior level; it has also thirty six corporate officers (Hoover 2002). Vision and Mission of Marriott International Company The vision of the Marriott International Comp any is to be the leader in the global lodging industry; it aspires to be the world leader in providing excellent services in the hospitality industry. In order to achieve this vision, the company strives to provide the best services in the world within the hotel and lodging industry. The mission statement of the company affirms that company’s commitment in being the best and provider of excellent lodging and food services. It achieves this by treating its workers in the best way ever so that they can offer extra-ordinary services to the company’s customers (Brotherton and Wood, 2008).Advertising Looking for report on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Competition The hotel is exceedingly disjointed. The competition is mainly based on the quality of the available rooms, service provision among others. Other factors that determine competition level include the presence of global distribu tion system, prices charged on various products and facilities and any other innovation that may come into the industry. It is important to note that Marriott International already operates in sixty eight nation of the world. This makes it possible for the company to offer its services to a large number of customers across the globe. However, it must be acknowledged that the company faces stiff competition from similar companies operating in the same industry both locally and abroad. Many of the company’s competitors are already spread across eight or more countries. This means that the competitors are enjoying a wider customer base than Marriott International. The main competitors to Marriott International include: Starwood Hotels: this group of hotels provides similar services to clients. The hotel already has 297 hotels in Europe alone. Besides, it operates in countries found in the American continent, Middle East and parts of Africa. It is therefore evident that the Starw ood Hotels get more revenues than the Marriott International due to its large base of operation spread across the continent (Abrahams 2007). Choice Hotels International: this is a group of hotels with international franchises totaling right over five thousand hotels. These franchises operate under different brands such as Comfort Inn, Sleep Inn and Cambria Suite amongst others. This company is also bigger than the Marriott International and definitely enjoys higher level of revenues than Marriott International. Intercontinental Hotels: this is deemed the largest hotel in the world judging by the number of rooms it has. It operates in more than a hundred countries across the world. This therefore implies that it is the largest competitor to the Marriott International (Yu 1999). Strategies used by Marriott International â€Å" Marriott International has put in place sales structure that will ensure it remains top in the provision of hotel products in the industry. The sales initiativ e is customer-centered and it aims at making sales simply, effective and efficient; this also helps the company to establish its roots deeper into the untapped market segments.Advertising We will write a custom report sample on Marriott International specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The strategy enables the customers to operate at one principal contact where he or she can get all product brands. In this way, the Marriott International has managed to meet all the customer needs within a centralized point of purchase. Beside, Marriott International relies on research to establish real customer needs. The company realized the rising level of complexity and number of channels through which customers in the industry secure rooms and accommodation or meetings; to solve these challenges, the Marriott International have come up with ways, through research, to improve the efficiency of its services to customers. It is important to note that t he company does research by involving those who are either directly or indirectly in contact with customers or clients. This includes interviewing sales leaders who have one-on-one engagement with clients, travel managers, meeting planners and sales associates. Moreover, the research is undertaken both internally and externally (Reid and Bojanic, 2009). The Marriott International also uses the strategy of evaluating its strengths and weaknesses. This is by obtaining data from various facets of the company and doing accurate evaluation. As a result of both internal and external research the company has established more clear roles for its employees and staff members so that customers get specific services and or assistances from specific company employees or staff members. Furthermore, Marriott International has come up with strategic idea of establishing regional sales offices to offer more effective services to its customers by organizing individual accounts. Internal audit and ext ernal audits Businesses are affected by both internal and external factors; the effect is either negative or positive. Internal factors are factors that a business can control while external factors are factors beyond the control of a single business. Internal audits To gather as much information as possible, the management undertakes the process with as many competent employees as possible. It should also analyze both published and unpublished data which will assist it in appreciating the need the prevailing conditions. The following process is followed;Advertising Looking for report on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Gathering of information Testing data validity Interpolating and analyzing information gotten Making strategic decision based on the information gotten The following are some of the parameters found by internal audits; The company has a pool of experienced human resource who is employed on a track record. It has employed a high level of technology in all its processes where it ensures that efficiency is facilitated. Corporate customers require fast and effective services since they are busy; to attain this company has embarked on an efficient technology. Financial Ratio Analysis Ratio Status Gross Profit Margin 17.2% EBIT Margin -1.4% EBITDA Margin 11.3% Pre-Tax Profit Margin -2.6% Current Ratio 1.3 Quick Ratio 0.5 Leverage Ratio 8.2 Receivables Turnover 13.0 Inventory Turnover 5.5 Asset Turnover 1.3 Revenue to Assets 1.3 Return on Invested Capital -5.8% Return on Assets -2.8% Debt/Common Equity Ratio 2.93 Price/Book Ratio (Price/Equity) 10.70 Bo ok Value per Share $2.95 Total Debt/ Equity 3.06 Long-Term Debt to Total Capital 0.75 SGA as % of Revenue 5.9% RD as % of Revenue 0.0% Receivables per Day Sales $29.49 Days CGS in Inventory 66 Working Capital per Share $1.95 Cash per Share $0.33 Cash Flow per Share $-0.17 Free Cash Flow per Share $-1.73 Tangible Book Value per Share $-1.53 Price/Cash Flow Ratio -190.7 Price/Free Cash Flow Ratio 18.4 Price/Tangible Book Ratio -20.88 Internal factor evaluation matrix Internal factor evaluation matrix is a strategic management instrument used in auditing major strengths weaknesses of a company in major operational areas of a business entity. This instrument also provides away of linking the operations areas. Internal strengths Weight Rating Weighted score Largest product provider in the industry 5% 3 0.15 Supplies main airline customers 15% 2 0.30 Good image and reputation 5% 3 0.15 Easily accessible by customers 10% 3 0.30 Strength of manage ment team 6% 4 0.24 Account of limited customer complaints 4% 3 0.12 Rising cash flow 4% 1 0.04 Loyalty of employees and staff 4% 3 0.12 Financial ratios 5% 4 0.20 Internal weaknesses Flooded market 10% 1 0.10 diminutive diversification 8% 2 0.16 Sensitive to raw material prices 15% 2 0.30 Nonexistence f strategic partner 4% 1 0.04 Limited access to global market 5% 1 0.04 Total 100% 2.26 1-major weakness 2-Minor weakness 3-minor strength 4-major strength External Audit CPM-Competitive Matrix Competitive Matrix for the Marriott Company is an array of major competitors of the company. An external audit addresses five area, they are; Economic factors Social and cultural factors Political/governmental structures Technology and innovations and Competitive forces The world is experiencing a rapid technological change; this is brought about by the use of computers in different sectors of a business. Marriot has benefited from the changes; for example the compan y has a website where a customer can log in and communicate directly to the company. These services are available for 24 hours in seven days. In line with the same, the company has embraced computerized marketing and advertisement where it sells its products all over the world through the internet. Internal processes are also facilitated The model of management has changed with increased enlightened people; customers are continuously demanding for better treatments form companies in the way they are served and the production processes involved. Currently social corporate responsibility management, ethical business products and customer care services have taken center stage. The company has embarked on corporate social responsibilities, it practices in environmental management exercises like tree planting, engage in clean technology among others. In the times of global financial crisis, the government of United States is increasingly adopting laws and regulation aimed at ensuring tha t business are conducted effectively, standards have been reviewed and compliance with the treads is important. Factors Marriott International Accor Hilton Hotels Intercontinental Hotels Low product prices 5 3 3 2 Superior quality 3 4 4 4 Flexible products 5 3 3 3 exclusive features 5 2 2 3 Timely product delivery 4 5 4 5 Total 22 17 16 17 External Factor Evaluation Matrix Opportunities Weight Rating Weighted score Industry consolidation 10% 4 0.04 Increased in clients 12% 3 0.36 Expansion opportunities 13% 4 0.52 Reduced operation cost 10% 3 0.30 Asset acquisition 14% 4 0.64 Threats Waning margins 10% 1 0.10 Government supervision 5% 3 0.15 Rising prices of crucial input 6% 2 0.16 Taxes and tariffs 10% 2 0.10 Economic slump 10% 1 0.01 Total 100% 2.38 1-poor 2-below average 3-superior 4-very superior SWOT Analysis for Marriott International Company Marriott International SWOT analysis (Research and Marketing n.d) Strengths High qu ality brand within the industry International operations with large customer base Prompt delivery of services to customers Low debt liability and strong financial base Well coordinated management team Weaknesses Weak functional performance Vulnerability to economic slowdown Difficulty in accessing credit market Ineffective cost structure management Fluctuating profit margins Opportunities Expansion to other foreign nations/market More asset acquisitions due to high level of privatization Initiatives for transformations Product diversification Recruitment of highly experienced personnel Threats Economic slowdown due to credit crunch Increase in government taxes Entry of new players in the industry Expansion of competitors Political instability inflations Space matrix The space matrix is an instrument used to determine whether aggressive, defensive, competitive or conservative techniques are appropriate for the company. In this case, SPACE matrix is used to determine t he appropriate strategy that the Marriott International should adopt for its growth and development. It helps the company to favorably compete with other companies within the industry. When plotted on an X-Y axis, the statistics appears as follows: For Marriott International, it is important that aggressive strategy be adopted. This owes to the fact that the company lags much behind its competitors. By adopting the aggressive strategy, the company will be seeking to catch up and probably outweigh its major competitors. The strategy will be used in new acquisition of assets which are necessary for the company’s expansion to other foreign countries and other regions where it has the potential of creating more market opportunities. Furthermore, the strategy is very appropriate in terms of attracting more clients. With the large number of operators in the industry and the potential entrance of new players, aggressive strategy is most appropriate in grabbing customers and even es tablishing loyal clients. Grand strategy matrix Internal (Redirecting resource within the company) retrenching unproductive labor force divesture winding up of the company or liquidation reducing operation costs within the company Overcome weakness doing vertical integration improve on cost structure management strengthen functional performance reduce debt burden Maximize strength ensuring determined growth development of new market establishing innovations development of products attracting more qualified and experienced personnel to improve operations of the company External (acquisition or merger for resource ability) Getting into joint venture with other companies Doing concentric product diversification Pursuing horizontal integration Hiring consultants with varied necessary expertise The Internal-External (IE) Matrix This matrix places the company into a nine cell matrix. For the company, the Internal-External Matrix looks as follows: Quantitative Strategi c Planning Matrix (QSPM) for Marriott International Company First alternative-acquire competitor Second alternative-expand internally Key factors Weight Attractive-ness Score Total attractive- ness score weight Attractive-ness Score Total attractive- ness score Strengths Exclusive product 0.11 2 0.22 0.08 1 0.08 Location 0.09 4 0.36 0.06 2 0.12 Employees unique skills 0.15 1 0.15 0.13 4 0.52 Product quality 0.11 4 0.44 0.15 4 0.60 Increased productivity 0.09 0 0.00 0.12 3 0.36 Weaknesses Low quality service to customers 0.10 4 0.04 0.13 3 0.39 Poor sales and marketing 0.15 2 0.30 0.10 1 0.10 Product diversification 0.08 3 0.24 0.17 0 0.00 Pessimistic to globalization 0.12 1 0.12 0.06 1 0.06 Total weight 100% 100% Opportunities New market 0.09 4 0.36 0.12 0 0.00 Acquisition of competitors 0.14 4 0.56 0.08 2 0.16 Joining trade alliances 0.16 0 0.00 0.10 1 0.10 Threats Rising competition 0.08 4 0.32 0.12 1 0.32 Price conflict 0.10 3 0.30 0.14 0 0.00 Competitor dominance 0.18 2 0.36 0.09 1 0.09 Forex (US$) 0.09 0 0.00 0.20 0 0.00 Bad tax policies 0.16 0 0.00 0.15 0 0.00 Total attractiveness score 4.08 2.90 The price of a commodity is an element of total cost plus a profit margin. When a target market has been established, there is need to determine the price affordable to the customers. A marketer should be aware of consumer’s trends and their potential. The social class that the product is targeted will influence the price of the products. Recommendations to Marriot International Company A customer is the backbone of a company; the main decision that a marketing manager should make determining his company’s market segment. One of the ways to enter in the target market is marketing mix. The 4Ps represent Price, product/service, promotion, and place. An effective marketing ensures that goods are available to the target customer, when they need them at and they are affordable. Since the Mar riott International Company is fast growing, and with the current challenges it faces, it is important that certain recommendations be proposed. The recommendations should be adopted with the sole reason of advancing the company’s global operations. To achieve this, the following recommendations are important: Performance evaluation: the Board of Directors is the top organ of the company. It is therefore crucial that the performance of the board be evaluated with respect to the company’s goals and objectives. Besides, it will also be important to come up with appropriate instruments to be used in evaluating the performance employees and other junior staff members. This can be done through performance management; Restructure marketing techniques: the company is facing stiff international competition and is likely to lose out in case it remains with the same old marketing strategies; the company should consider drawing new market communication strategies that will repos ition its products in the market. In addition, the company should re-brand its products through careful and skillful innovation in order to attract new customers. To ensure that the operations of the company are successful, it is important that the company defines its operation principles of internal control. Moreover, the company should also establish ways of monitoring and evaluating the internal controls. The company should establish proper criteria according to which the process of risk management will be taking place. the criteria should be in such a way that potential risks are identified as early as the initial warning signs can be spotted and appropriate actions be taken promptly. Financial strength is one of the most important core businesses of the company. To ensure that the company’s financial resource are well managed and utilize, it is recommended that the company gives a clear description on how the internal audit should function to avoid any form of Fraud or m isappropriation of financial resource It will also be important for the company to enhance the flow of information from the top level to bottom level. The flow of information on crucial and sensitive matters should be effective and efficient. This should utilize the most current communication technology. The strengths and weaknesses of the company should be evaluated on a periodic basis in order to identify potential challenges that can affect the normal operations of the company. It is important to note that new challenges arise and can contribute to the company’s already existing weaknesses. Again, the company is likely to gain more strength areas which, if well utilized, can help enhance the competitive advantage of the company. A definite period should therefore be set to be used in monitoring and evaluating the internal weaknesses and strengths of the company. Analyzing the strengths and weaknesses of the company is important since the company will be able to utilize th e available opportunities and cope with threats brought about by the system. Domestic market growth vs. Overseas Expansion of Marriot International The Marriott International Company started as s mall hotel firm in the United States of America; during the following periods, it embarked on aggressive expansion within the local industry. Its growth in the domestic market earned it a lot of revenues that enabled it to start its expansion outside the home market. It expanded its operations to several countries worldwide. The domestic market is getting saturated by new entrants into the industry; this poses threat to the company at local level. However, looking at the international market, there is still great opportunity to access new market segments. This implies that, the company stands a chance to gain more from overseas expansion than domestic market growth. In the process of overseas expansion, the company also stands a great chance of acquiring other companies and new assets. The most probable candidates for acquisition are the Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company and Hilton Hotels. The most important thing is that Marriott International should focus on acquiring assets of the most performing companies as this will bolster its financial performance and also increase its presence in the market. The two presented takeover candidates are well positioned to ensure the Marriott International achieves its growth objectives and both domestic and international expansion. Reference List Abrahams, J., 2007, 101 Mission Statements from Top Companies: Plus Guidelines for Writing Your Own Mission Statement, New York, Ten Speed Press. Brotherton, B. and Wood, CR 2008, The SAGE Handbook of Hospitality Management, New York, SAGE Publications Ltd. Hoover, G., 2002, Hoovers Handbook of American Business 2003, New York, Hoovers, Incorporated. Reid, DR and Bojanic, CD 2009, Hospitality Marketing Management, New Jersey, John Wiley and Sons. Research And Marketing n.d, Marriott Internation al, Inc., Research and Markets, Ireland. Yu, L., 1999, The international hospitality business: management and operations, New York, Routledge.

Foreseeability. Negligence and Tort Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

Foreseeability. Negligence and Tort - Assignment Example The essence of existence of specific relationship between parties to establish negligence claims is based on the logic that such a claim can only arise in acts and omissions relating to these elements (Cooke, 2005, p. 12). Normally, it is assumed that such claims can be levelled against a third party because such party is liable for acts or omissions that led to harm, injury, or loss. However, in some circumstances, an individual may be in specific relationship with a third party and have a duty to control the conduct of the third party so as to prevent harm, injury, or loss to the claimant (Kidner, 2006, p.25). Control over the third party includes but not limited to the following: parent and child, car owner and a drunken or incompetent driver, mental hospital and patient, parent and child, and gaoler and prisoner. The need for control over a third party is informed by the position taken by Lord Goff in Smith v Littlewoods [1987] 1 All ER 710 at 731 when analyzing the rule of mere- omissions and making considerations for the exceptions to this rule. Lord Goff argued that there are some circumstances where the courts have established affirmative action duties. One of these circumstances is that the defendant has control over a third party who has caused damage to the claimant. Control over a third party is an affirmative action that has been given rise by a number of relationships. Examples of these relationships are parent and child and employer and employee, where the defendant has an affirmative duty to prevent harm (Kidner, 2006, p. 71). Normally, there should be a chain of causation between the negligence of the defendant and the damage caused to the claimant, as decided in Rouse v Squires [1973] QB 889. In such circumstances, the third party may be held liable for the claimant’s damage. However, where the defendant has control over a third party, or in circumstances where the third party is

America's Post-Civil War Growing Pains Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

America's Post-Civil War Growing Pains - Essay Example The period was also meant to resolve issues caused by reunion of the 11 states which had seceded before the outbreak of the Civil war. The period witnessed a race struggle between the two races i.e blacks and white where the whites attempted to make blacks second class citizens with little involvement of running public issues. The whites had occupied the economic and political power houses until 1890s which witnessed the rise of populist members’ movements. The reconstruction period was also meant to insure the freed blacks from the draconian laws and policies of the white. Worth noting is that during the America Civil war, president Lincoln had declared a state emergency, and consequently assumed most of the congress powers and this had caused a lot of friction between the congress and the presidency. This would later spill in the reconstruction period where the two centers of power would fight over who lead the reconstruction period. Most members of the congress, more so tho se referred as the â€Å"Radical Republicans† vigorously rejected the president’s assumption of the congress powers. ... According to Altbach, P.G and Umakosh T. (2004) another major turning was the adoption of the three constitutional amendments 13th, 14th and 15th Amendments commonly known as the Reconstruction Amendments. The three amendments generally sought to abolish slavery, guarantee all citizens of United States citizenship irrespective of their birth status and a guarantee of federal civil rights. According to Nicholas Lemann, (2007), the passage of the three amendments marked a legacy in the constitutional development of United States as it gave rise to serious and extensive litigation which led to pronouncements of progressive judgments by Supreme Court leading to striking down of discriminatory state laws. These amendments have had an effect to the current America current society, economy, politics, and culture as it has allowed Americans from all corners of the world to have citizenship and participate in its economic and cultural life. Ways in which reconstruction period could have been different if Lincoln had not been assassinated If President Lincoln had not been assassinated, the reconstruction period would have seen more twists and turns than the ones experienced during his successor’s Presidency. Peterson (1995) argues that he would have interacted with Congress in a fairly far less difficult due to his superior political skills, pragmatism and flexibility. On the other hand, Rawley (2003) believes that there would have been attempts by the Radicals to impeach Lincoln and this would have complicated the reconstruction period. Effects of industrialization and urbanization on the average American between 1865-1900 The end of the Civil War provided a great

Changing business environment of Samsung

Changing business environment of Samsung Introduction: Samsung has grown to one of largest electronics company since 1938. Since 1970s and early 1980s Samsung expanded globally with diversified intention into core technical business. Samsung leads the electronic industry with its high performance and with high growth rate along with stability. 2009 Global Market Share of 13 Percentage of different products available in market. Examples -: Mobile Phones, Monitors, Semiconductor.1970 First Black White (Model P-3202) production started Samsung-Sanyo Electronics.1969 SAMSUNG-Sanyo Electronics established (renamed SAMSUNG Electro-Mechanics in March 1975 and merged with SAMSUNG Electronics in March 1977)1951 SAMSUNG Moolsan established (now SAMSUNG Corporation)1938 SAMSUNG was founded in, Korea (Taegu) Company: Samsung Global Market share is terms of sales is as follows: TV Market Share is 21.9% Laser Printer Share is 13.7% Mobile Phone Share is 16.7% DRAM Share is 30.1% TFT-LCD Panel Share is 25.7% If we compare this performance to other companies Samsung emerges as world leader in at least 3 sectors which are TV, DRAM TFT-LCD. This clearly shows us the dominance of Samsung in market and this is mainly due to its transparent policies, positive approach and honest efforts in being a global leader. This performance data is taken from Samsungs sustainability report for 2009 from Samsung official website. We can clearly see that Samsung as a company is growing locally and globally Korea being its local market. This consistent growth of the company is mainly due to its marketing strategies which are paying off well. More details on Samsungs operations, marketing, product line etc can be found on: The business environment keeps on changing and is unpredictable. So, it is very necessary to understand and react to this changing business so as to survive and grow in the market.Proper knowledge of business environment will make the entrepreneurs and businesses able enough to plan and implement strategies that are needed to identify the scope of improvement, create and exploit opportunities that come on the way, retain stability, gain competitive advantage and prepare appropriately for the upcoming challenges. The way the environment is analyzed and accordingly the strategies implemented, will define the track of the business.Here With the example of samsung. The data collected will be analysed using SWOT. SWOT stands for strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats. SWOT analysis, is a strategic business planning tool used to determine the Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats that exists in business. It includes identifying the business objectives as well as the internal and external factors which are likely to favour the business. It may be classified into: Internal factors strengths and weaknesses that are within (internal) organization. External factors opportunities and threats of external environment. The internal factors can be classified into strengths and weaknesses depending upon their effect on organization and business objectives.The factors may include all of the 4Ps; as well as personnel, finance, manufacturing capabilities, and so on. The external factors may include macro-economic factors like technological , legal,and socio-cultural changes, as well as changes in the marketplace or competitive position. According to B Kyle SWOT can be identified as internal and external in relation to environment. Strengths: It usually tells about the positives of the company. How well we are doing in our area of interest. What is our position in front of competitor? Weaknesses: Weakness refers to area of struggle of our company. Why are consumers not happy about particular product? Why are we not meeting sales target for a particular product. Opportunities: It is directly related to external environment. It could be the areas where your competitor is not good at. We should try to utilize strengths in areas of our weaknesses. Are there any emerging trends or possibility to capture market by introducing new product? Threats: It could be financial or development problem. Competitors strength is major threat. Are competitors becoming strong. Description. Strategic business tools: SWOT analysis for Samsung Strengths Strong hold in Consumer Electronics Low margin strategy increases sales Highly skilled labour availability locally globally Good focus on customer service and good marketing strategy Strong management and loyal employees Weaknesses Lack of performance in Laser printer sales Less cost effective in PC consumable products. Lack of brand recognition in mobile phone sector. Poor pricing strategy Lack of usage of infrastructure in some part of world e.g. China Opportunities Can unseat major stake holders in TV and DRAM sectors Increase product range in consumer electronics Can sustain future market using the idea of consumer taste research Rapid growth in competitive markets across the globe Increase in portfolio due to acquisitions of other firms Threats Faces high competition from Sony and Nokia in mobile phone sector. Daily entrants of new technology companies Impact on sales due to recession Lack of innovation in mobile industry threatens its position further down. Intense competition from existing companies in PC sector. The above information which helps in doing the SWOT analysis and other graphical presentation helps to answer our objective questions mostly. Although it might not provide direct answer but clarifies strategies and benefits of organisation doing global and domestic business. It clearly reveals the benefits of proper marketing in terms of sales numbers. PESTEL Analysis: PESTEL analysis is one of the most important tool of business strategic management which helps in identifying the surroundings within which the company operates. It gives a clear idea about the threats, risks and opportunities that occur in the market. It helps in understanding the needs of market, its fluctuations, whether the market is progressing upwards or downwards (i.e. growth decline ratios) and thus makes the businesses able to develop strategies accordingly. PESTEL is used as decision making tools in macro-environment. PESTEL is Classified into: Political factors Economic factors Social factors Technological factors Environmental factors Legal factors Political factors: Its all about intervenes of the government on the economy of the country. Political factors include areas like Tax policy Labour law Environmental law Trade restriction Tariffs Political stability Services and goods provide by the government ( merit goods ) and services which is not provided by the government (demerit goods) Goodwill among foreign nations Economic factors: It includes Interest rates Economic growth Rate of inflation (Inflation rate) Rate of Exchange (Exchange rate) For example: Cost of capital is directly affected by interest rate Exporting goods and supply of goods is affected by exchange rate Inflation raises cost. Social factors: Demand of products and company operations are affected by social factors like Culture of the society Natality rate Growth rate Age distribution Technological factors It includes Research and development activity. Automation Better technology for the production of goods Technological have direct impact on costs, quality which leads to innovation. Environmental factors It includes Weather Climate change Locality (Place) Ecofriendly products (to overcome with problem of global warming)e.g Effect of temperature on farming and tourism. Legal Factors It include Consumer law Employment law Health and safety law Discrimination law e.g. Minimum wages system in U.K is legal factor that affect business. Minimum age for employment is fixed by the government. Conclusions Recommendations We have analysed and gathered data from Samsung Company in relation to our topic global versus domestic marketing a critical analysis. The conclusions drawn using company data alone cannot summarize our findings. However there are similarities in few points. If we look at the organisation section we can see how Samsung has come a long way to be recognised as a global brand. It shows that achieving such position in global market is very hard. Not only achieving but it becomes increasingly important to sustain that growth due to fierce competition. It shows how companies have to adjust or change their policies from time to time keeping in mind rising and falling economy. In general it alerts companies of being more innovative cautious of environmental changes. It also emphasis on limitations one has to face as the behaviour and taste of consumer changes geographically. Recommendations Companies should develop marketing strategies keeping in mind its strengths, weaknesses and availability of resources to be globally successful. Companies should try to develop product which global consumer can identify easily from competitors one. Identify a sector where we can see growth and sustain competition. Companies should appoint special taskforce or focused group people to identify the drawbacks of non performing sector and find solutions to that. To be successful organisations should concentrate mainly on quality and pricing structure. Be in constant touch with customer by means of advertising, press releases and make them aware about product specifications and changes if there are any. Try to use both forms of communication verbal and non verbal. Summary From this report on global marketing versus domestic marketing we understand that main objective of any company doing global marketing is to find opportunities. It mainly expands companys reach to global customers. This mainly depends on how the company analyses its strengths and opportunities, optimum usage of resources and approach towards business. Here in this report we saw how Samsung as a global company has wide range of products and constantly keeps on adding them to sustain market place. SWOT analysis helped us to understand about positives and negatives of the company. Important outcome of the report about marketing can be converted in one slogan think globally and act locally. References Aaker, Jennifer, Susan Fournier and S. Adam Brasel. (2003). When Good Brands Do Bad. Paper presented to the Marketing Science Institute Board of Trustees Meeting in Washington, D.C., March 6, 2003. Baker, Malcolm and Greet Sterenberg. (2002). International Branding: How to Resolve the Global-Local Dilemma. Market Leader (Autumn). Johansson, Johny K. and Ilkka A. Ronkainen. (2003). The Esteem of Global Brands. Unpublished draft paper, McDonough School of Business, Georgetown University. Klein, Naomi (2000). No Logo. St, Martins Press. Levitt, Theodore. (1983). The Globalization of Markets. Harvard Business Review. Quelch, John, Douglas Holt and Earl Taylor. (2003). Managing the Transnational Brand: How Global Perceptions Drive Value. Paper presented at the Harvard Business Schools Globalization of Markets Colloquium (May 28-30, 2003). Upshaw, Lynn and Earl Taylor. (2000). The Masterbrand Mandate. John Wiley Sons. McQuarrie, Edward F, The Market Research Toolbox A concise guide for beginners. Bobette Kyle, How Much For Just the Spider? Strategic Website Marketing For Small Budget Business William D. Perreault, E. Jerome McCarthy Basic Marketing A Global Managerial Approach Tata Mcgraw-Hill Publishing Co. Ltd 2006. G Armstrong, P Kotler (2003), Marketing An Introduction, Pearson Education Pte. Ltd. Internet reference: http://www.fao.org/docrep/w5973e/w5973e02.htm http://www.cdf.org/issue_journal/samsungs_lessons_in_design.html Sustainability Report [online] from http://www.samsung.com/uk/aboutsamsung/citizenship/oursustainabilityreports.html Accessed 22nd August 2009 http://ivythesis.typepad.com/term_paper_topics/2009/08/global-marketing-versus-domestic-marketing-a-critical-evaluation.html http://business.lovetoknow.com/wiki/Global_and_Domestic_Marketing Refrences Sustainability Report [online] from http://www.samsung.com/uk/aboutsamsung/citizenship/oursustainabilityreports.html Accessed 12 March 2010.