Television Is a Great Invention Free Essays

A few people say TV is the most exceedingly terrible innovations of present day times. They make this statement for certain reasons. The accompanying focuses are some of them. We will compose a custom exposition test on TV Is a Great Invention or then again any comparative subject just for you Request Now To start with, they feel that TVs make individuals more detached than previously. Second, they think TVs add to the way that individuals are progressively inaccessible to one another. In the first place, I should concede that the main point is sensible. With a TV all you have to doâ€and everything you can do is to sit on an agreeable couch and take a gander at the screen. Individuals are turning out to be progressively detached essentially in light of the fact that there is no collaboration and no endeavors on them. Everything contains great side and terrible side and TV has no special case. Better believe it, obviously, it makes individuals lazier and uninvolved. They simply watch things on TV as opposed to doing without anyone else. However, aside from that, TV is by all methods an incredible creation. There is just a minority of individuals who can observe a few occasions on the scene, similar to some live matches and rivalries . So in what capacity can the remainder of individuals partake in the occasions a long way from the spot the occasions occur? Obviously through TV which all individuals are lawful and allowed to appreciate would we be able to do as such. What's more, to individuals who need to travel yet with no cash, TV is without a doubt an extraordinary thing through which individuals can see the world just by sitting in a perfect world at home. To the subsequent point, I need to state that it is valid. TVs do make individuals less near one another. Family parties and discussions are upset by TVâ€when one part is staring at the TV, he might want others to stay silent. However, everybody have time when the individual is separated from everyone else. TV distances individuals not really as it gives a wide range of unwinding and amusement for individuals when they are separated from everyone else. In spite of the fact that TV someone who is addicted a few youths to circumstance comedies; despite the fact that TVs put glasses on a huge number of students’ noses; in spite of the fact that TV decrease correspondences among families and companions, the benefits of TV are definitely more than the damage it does to us. To us people, when we finish an entire day’s work and feel depleted both genuinely and intellectually, we may turn on TVs and have a decent unwinding; when we need to get data on sports?entertainment or enormous occasions on the planet, we turn on TVs and get it from a wide range of TV programs; in any event, when we need to learn English?etiquette or custom of remote nations, we can turn on the TV and get what we need from them, generally. In a word, I think TV is an incredible development which is of extraordinary noteworthiness to the advancement of human culture. References: http://www.oppapers.com/papers/Television-Great-Invention/100718 http://www.media-awareness.ca/english/guardians/TV/good_things_tv.cfm http://articles.famouswhy.com/the_benefits_and_dangers_of_television/ http://wenda.tianya.cn/wenda/thread?tid=24535823bd68dd80 http://wenwen.soso.com/z/q138729005.htm The most effective method to refer to Television Is a Great Invention, Papers

Why Feng Shui? Essay -- Philosophy

The word Feng Shui (fung shway) truly implies wind and water in Chinese. These significant vitality sources underlie the conviction that natural components impact individuals incredibly and this is the premise of Feng Shui. The bagua diagram shows how components, headings and parts of life can be of impact. There is an abundance of data regarding the matter from experts and writers that demonstrate the advantages of Feng Shui. Doubters that started to rehearse it brought incredible thriving and karma into their lives driving them to become backers of the training. In this manner, it makes sense that however there is a counter contention against the contention that Feng Shui is gigantically valuable; it is disproven by fruitful agents, changes over and columnists. Business magnates, money related establishments, engineers, workplaces and mortgage holders use Feng Shui standards. Numerous exceptionally fruitful and smart individuals invest energy and cash joining this old craftsmanship , but then there are the doubters that endeavor to demonstrate it to be an exercise in futility. Feng Shui is currently a worldwide marvel it brings riches and prosperity, yet it is encircled with wariness; even the cynics in the end change when they are deluged with its advantages. Feng Shui is an antiquated workmanship which began in Asia a great many years prior. It depends on the bagua diagram which gives readings and settles on the best moves to make when planning structures or masterminding furniture in the inside of a structure. The diagram depends on the I Ching, an antiquated Chinese book that incorporates old inestimable standards and divination techniques. There are eight headings on the diagram, which give guidelines on what the specialist ought to do to show great vitality, and pull in the ideal results... ...nne. Feng shui takes care of your furnishings and your life. The Money Street Journal (1996): 12. Proquest. 9 Apr. 2012 . Lagatree, Kirsten. Antiquated chinese astuteness for the cutting edge work environment. Training and Development 51.1 (1997): 26-29. Proquest. 9 Apr. 2012 . Weltman, Barbara and Michael, Hayes. Feng Shui for Beginners. Journal of Bookkeeping 200.6 (2005): 36-39. Proquest. 9 Apr. 2012 . Asis-Leif Designs. 2001/2012. 6 May 2012 Bankrate.com. 2012. 6 May 2012

Coca Colas Brand

Coca Colas Brand Coca Colas Brand Home›Marketing Posts›Coca Colas Brand Marketing PostsCoca cola’s brand policy is crucial for the success of the company. The proof is that Coca Cola had became the worlds most valuable  brand. Coca Cola manages a brand of more 3500 products in over 200 countries such as diet beverages, fruit juices, energy drinks, teas, coffees, milk…(coca cola company, products, 2011). Coca Cola ‘s brand portfolio includes brands such as   Coca-Cola, Diet Coke, Coke Zero, Coke Classic, Sprite, Fanta, Dasani, Powerade, Minute Maid already marketed successfully on the market, but, in addition, the company is always involved in enhancing its brand portfolio by developing new products. A balanced product offering- they constantly expand the range of product brands and flavours offered to their consumers and customers across he growing non-alcoholic beverage categories in order to respond to new tastes and preferences. By broadening their product brands portfolio, they are off ering their consumers more choices than before. By the end of 2010, their water and still beverages was approximately 36% of their total volume, with more than 30 water brands in their portfolio.Expanding consumer choice with innovation-Coca Cola prides itself on thinking   ‘outside the bottle’ by often considering new strategies to broaden their beverage portfolio of brands through packaging and brand innovation.They are present in every occasion of consumption, with the correct brand, in the best package across all sale channels. Nutritional labeling information-in 2007, they began introducing labels in the EU member states in order to help customers understand the content of calories in beverages. New packaging solutions-they continue to broaden their brands offering to address  by making the product more accessible and that it always meet the ever changing consumer needs for instance by introducing new package forms. As an extreme example, one of the extensions, Cherry Coke , was successful despite a near absence of advertising support (Pitta, D., Katsani, L., 1995).Cola has been aiming to market a new products by exploiting a well-developed image by introducing new products such as Diet Coke, Caffeine-Free Coca-Cola,  Coca-Cola Cherry,  Coca-Cola Zero,  Coca-Cola Vanilla. Recent history shows that more than half of the new brands marketed during the 1980s were extensions of existing products, marketed under existing brand names. The most famous of these is Diet Coke, which is a major diet cola. Other Coke products are Caffeine free Coke, Cherry Coke, Coke ZERO, etc. On the other hand, Coca Cola has been marketing new product under new names.   They are given their own brand names such as Fanta, Sprite, Schweppes, etc. By analyzing Coca Cola’s brand portfolio it can be seen that Coca-Cola is an example of a hybrid brand architectureLooking closely at the Diet Coke drinkers,they would acknowledge the fact that the product is related to Coca-Cola, but to them it is not a sub-brand, it is their brand. Where some brands benefit from association with the Coca-cola brands, whereas others are driver brands on their own. In fact Coca-Cola set up different brand strategies in different products by using a Hybrid brand strategy in cola drinks that are under the Coke brand name.Coca-Cola Company deploys various techniques to acquire a considerable market share in the beverage industry. Development and expansion of the company is vested on various policies introduced to enhance its marketing prowess as well as meet respective customer preferences in the globe. The Branding architecture of the company has played a pivotal role in enhancing development and market maximization. Coca-Cola Company deploys hybrid mode of system through wishing the name Cola to one of its brands in the globe. Also, the company has been in front in producing other brands in different regions in the society aimed at enhancing its market share globally through diver sity brand system (Benedetto, 1999).

The Importance of Keeping Appointments - 998 Words

The Importance of Keeping Appointments I am writing this essay as a plan of action because I managed to miss a scheduled appointment. Missing a scheduled appointment may seem like a rather minute infraction but if you think about it and trace it back far enough it has a negative impact on all parties involved it effects the army as a whole, the government, tax dollars, every American and possible most of the population of the planet even if they don’t know it or feel an impact from it on some level even if insignificant it effects civilization as a whole. I had an appointment with the Army Substance Abuse Program scheduled for Tuesday the 13 of November at 13:00 in the afternoon. On this particular Tuesday I was also scheduled for an†¦show more content†¦If they rolled out on time, they may have avoided an ambush. It sounds extreme but time management plays a critical role in the Army. When you make an appointment, that spot has been reserved for you. That means if you have been given the last slot so meone else is going to have to wait for another one to open up. This could be one day or one month. And because you missed it someone else is still going to have to wait when they could have had that spot and been there. If you are going to miss the appointment or cannot make it due to mission or other circumstances they do allow us to cancel the appointment with in twenty four hours. The Army allows us to make appointments for whatever we need. Be it for a medical appointment, house goods, CIF, Smoking Sensation or whatever we need these recourses are available to us. But when Soldiers start missing appointments these systems start to become inefficient. Soldiers do not realize is that when they miss an appointment it does not just affect them; it affects the entire chain of command from the Squad Leader all the way to the First Sergeant. When a Soldier misses an appointment the squad leader must answer for the Soldier, the Squad leader must answer to the platoon Sgt., the Platoon Sgt. Must answer to the First Sergeant., and the First Sergeant must answer to the Battalion Sergeant Major. I don’t this to ever happen again, lessonShow MoreRelatedEssay about The Importance of Keeping Appointments1064 Words   |  5 PagesArticle 86 of the Uniform Code Of Military Justice. This Article covers Point and Place of Duty. That means from PT formation to COB that is where you will be. What a lot of Soldiers do not understand that includes appointments made by them or someone else. We have appointment times, SP times, formation times and many other start times that dictate we will be there. If a Convoy has an SP time of fifteen hundred hours and the Soldiers decide to show up late because they did not feel like gettingRead MoreBellevue / Nyus Program For Survivors Of Torture843 Words   |  4 Pagescompleted because it was an inconvenience for the nursing staff, which cause doctors to take on the responsibility, prolonging the wait time for appointments. Generally, the staff does not speak to the clients with respect or consideration. Clients do not have the opportunity to voice their concerns, and at times will leave the clinic before their appointment due to a prolonged wait-time. It would be beneficial for patient care if efforts were made to create a more welcoming and professional environmentRead MoreAppointments For The Health Care System888 Words   |  4 PagesPatients have been missing appointments or have canceled required follow up testing which were ordered by providers. These appointments are either canceled or no show within 24hrs before scheduled time. Missed appointments are a cost to the health care system in terms of personnel time, extended waiting lists, and the loss of potentially beneficial services. In the past quarter we have seen a decline in No Show Rate. We have 160 weekly spaces available for appointments in the hospital. The 10 % ofRead MoreWork Essay1221 Words   |  5 Pagesexplain the importance of timeliness as it relates to the US Army, as well as the importance of keeping appointments. Soldiers of every rank and specialty have many responsibilities, and many others depend on their actions being carried out successfully.   If a soldier does not follow extremely important or life-and-death orders, this could result in extremely unfortunate, life-or-death consequences. However, failure to obey small, seemingly simple directions, such as keeping an appointment, can alsoRead MoreProper Scheduling For The Pediatric Medical Field1267 Words   |  6 Pagesreceive the proper medical care quickly and well patients to have access to care and continue to stay well. This paper will discuss the importance of proper scheduling in the pediatric medical workcenter. Proper scheduling will result in the maximum amount of patients being seen by the doctor at their scheduled appointment time. The goal of a well-designed appointment system is to deliver timely and convenient access to health services for all patients (Huang, Zuniga, Marcak, 2014, p. 763). Good doctor-patientRead Mo reAn Argument Of The Supreme Court1109 Words   |  5 Pagesconstitution found life tenure appropriate for the justices of the Supreme Court as an expression of their importance to the government, but also that the loss of their cognitive ability was an imaginary farce. Currently, the lifetime appointment is to hold the integrity of the power granted to the court, to protect judges from interference on decisions that effect the other branches of government. Keeping the Supreme Court separate from the other branches upholds the integrity of the courts constitutionalRead MoreThe Implementation Phase Of The Process Of Care1058 Words   |  5 Pagesis a healthy individual and he exercises regularly. If he does not improve his oral health it will begin to affect his overall health. Jay admits to brushing his teeth but does not use any other intraoral aids. Jay needs to be informed about the importance and purpose of tongue cleaning. Cleaning the tongue will decrease the amount of bacteria in the mouth and improve the overall cleanliness of the oral cavity. It is important for him to clean his teeth, tongue, gingiva and mucosa because microorganismsRead More`Hitler Became Chancellor in January 1933 Because He Was Leader of the Most Popular Party in Germ any. ` How Far Do You Agree with This Judgement?1563 Words   |  7 PagesAlthough their popularity contributed to Hitler`s appointment as Chancellor, it can be argued that there were more dominant factors that assisted Hitler in his rise to power. The prematurity of the government is often seen as the underlying factor; however some historians argue that the actions of Hindenburg, Von Papen and the desperation gave Hitler the final push in the direction of chancellorship. Hitler very quickly realised the importance of propaganda, he then proceeded to use it as a meansRead MoreCellphones : Is It Important For Our Future?924 Words   |  4 Pagesare in an era where cellphones are used more than an expensive computers, unless we are at work. As we move in the future of technology, we found ourselves in need to be more connected not just with family members from all over the world but also keeping track of our daily interests such as news, the new concept car, and politics. There is always a need to predict the future with and without phones. In this predicting research, you will learn how important is technology to us, and why is it importantRead MoreMarketing Plan1461 Words   |  6 Pagesgroomed and pampered by stylist who have had years and years of training and must complete a very informative PetSmart safety certification process. According to the PetSmart (2008), â€Å"grooming is not just about having a fabulous do it is also about keeping p ets happy and healthy with services including nail trimming, ear cleaning and teeth brushing.† PetSmart is always looking for new and better ways to make the lives of pets and their owners easier. One of the solutions to the busy lifestyles of

Study of Organizational Culture in Singapore - 1669 Words

Introduction The reason behind choosing Singapore as my country of interest mainly was that I did my Co-Op there in Fall of 2011. Personally I loved the country as a work place. Also I noticed during my stay there the amount of awareness they had about green technologies and environmental issues. Singapore is like the best of both worlds. Culturally and climate wise similar to Asia and rules, regulations and policies of those like any western country. Singapore has a mixed racial population. There are Chinese (mainly), Malay, British expats, Indians staying there as Permanent Residents for so many years harmoniously together. Review Culture may be viewed as a group s collective being which is both static and dynamic in nature,†¦show more content†¦This means that, Singaporeans always work as part of a group. And rather than individual achievements they value group achievements. Also they are more comfortable with group decisions. * Masculinity/ Feminity: Though the general culture of Singapore can be characterized by masculinity, there is a moderate level of feminity in that. The Femininity societal norm for Singaporeans is to be people-oriented and more concerned with societal ties. Due to the importance placed on social relations, members in society feel that they are interdependent [2] * Uncertainty Avoidance: The HERMES (A multinational company for whom the survey was conducted) study reveals that Singapore is represented by a low UA Index. Since Singaporeans are bound or are used to follow very strict government policies and rules, they cannot tolerate uncertainty. They are meticulous in their appr oach towards work. One definition of an organizational culture is the collective programming of the mind which distinguishes the members of one organization from another (Hofstede 1991: 262). Regarding Trompenaars’ corporate culture descriptions, I would say there is no particular culture that is a fit to this country. Since it’s a blend of different types of people, there are so many types of behavioral patterns that it is difficult to categorize the whole countryShow MoreRelatedHealth Organization Case Study Research Essay1514 Words   |  7 PagesOrganization Case Study Research a health Health Organization Case Study Research a health care organization or a network that spans several states within the U.S. (Example: United Healthcare, Vanguard, Banner Healthcare, etc.). Harvard Business Review Online and Hoovers Company Records, found in the GCU Library, are useful sources. You may also find pertinent information on your organizations webpage. Review Singapore Airlines Case Study. PrepareRead MoreUsing Cultural Theories Analyzing the Main Issue of the New Zealand Office of atT1674 Words   |  7 PagesAccording to Neghab A.E.P, et al(2009, pp87-88) organizational culture is a common assumption, value or norm system among members of an organization which is based on their behaviors to help organization to achieve the abilities they need to adapt itself to the environment, create uniformity and internal integrity. This essay will analyze the main issue of ATT’s New Zealand office by using the cultural theories and the reflections after the analyzing. In the case of ATT GIS, ATT’s office inRead MoreSingapore Airlines : An Organizations Vision, Culture, And Value Of Customer Service1061 Words   |  5 PagesThis thread will examine and discuss Singapore Airlines’ (SIA) will be four-fold. The first section will discuss SIA’s eight ingredients of success - in light the organization’s vision, culture, and value of customer service, which have made SIA into an organization of global renowned and continuous change. After the eight elements have been dissected and investigated, the excesses aggression to vulnerabilities will be addressed. The second section will also provide examples and rationales of theRead MoreDiversity Management Has Increased Improve Competitiveness Within The Business World1146 Words   |  5 Pageshowever there has been less focus given towards diversity and the greatest difference is how they approach diversity based on their culture. In Korea, by example, gender is considered an important diversity characteristic when in most western countries race and ethnicity is more accepted as diverse compared to gender which is more used when considering discrimination. Studies have shown positive effect of diversity management in the US but because it isn’t such a concern in homogeneous countries or countriesRead MoreAnalysis Of Inclusive Leadership And Organizational Culture1390 Words   |  6 Pagesinternational markets of Germany, Iran, Singapore, and Greece. My participation in this initiative centralized on leading the Inclusive Leadership Team (ILT), whose task included investigating the suitability of the inclusive leadership model for this effort. To facilitate the appropriate incorporation of inclusive leadership in this global effort, I led the ILT in determining the application of inclusive leadership for the reinforcement of the organizational culture. The ILT established the fitness ofRead MoreCorporate Social Responsibility at Bread Talk Essay76 3 Words   |  4 Pagesdifferences and steps that could be taken to promote cross cultural awareness. Breadtalk Founded in 2000, BreadTalk have grown to become one of the top local brands and operates more than 330 bakery outlets, 31 food courts and 13 restaurants across Singapore, Asia and Middle East. BreadTalk have been consistently advocating the open systems loop efficiently, which allowed them to constantly create new products at least twice a year and maintaining their edge. This research paper will show an exampleRead MoreThe Importance Of A Specific Gathering Of Individuals1546 Words   |  7 Pagesfoster positive cultural change. Some of these obstacles that will be identified in the paper will be as follows: †¢ Affected by climate change †¢ Diffusion between cultures †¢ Inventions in a culture and further innovation. †¢ Art is a form of cultural control in restricting or directing change. †¢ Dysfunction in organizational culture is an obstacle to change. Here we will be discussing some of the obstacles in great detail with cultural examples and stories. Climate change Climatic change couldRead MoreA New Team Of Global Employees1257 Words   |  6 Pagesspecific groups in question is consist of a person from Greece, a person from Iran, a person from Germany, and person from Singapore. In order to examine the group LDR 804 GLOBE task information was collected concerning the personalities of persons from stated countries. This study will look at culture evaluation instruments and how they will be useful to measure the business culture and to find cultural holes associated with this team. There will be an explanation of how my style of leadership, and techniquesRead MoreRao (2015) Acknowledge That Leaders Need To Accept The1212 Words   |  5 Pageswill offer their expertise to the group. This article provides an overview of the traits of inclusive leadership. Next, the paper analyzes leadership skills required to create an inclusive organizational culture. The essay transition to exploring leadership characteristics that influence an organizational culture. Last, the article discusses the best method inclusive leaders can apply when working with multicultural groups in a global environment. Traits of Inclusive Leadership A Deloitte articleRead MoreKey Characteristics Of The Housing Development Board Of Singapore1192 Words   |  5 PagesThe public housing authority, Housing Development Board (HBD) was a very important aspect to Singapore’s basic shelter needs. In 2007, basic shelter needs were used for 3.7 million of Singapore’s population. Singapore is considered a city-state in South East Asia where the government is heavily involved. As a non-profit organization, the local government is responsible for overseeing and administering certain decisions and responsibilities of Singapore’s public housing. The Housing Development Board

Consumer Behavior on Black Friday Free Essays

string(107) " feel a sense of empowerment, or the thrill of winning, which will only intensify their moods for the day\." Running Head: Black Friday Consumer Behavior on Black Friday Abstract The purpose of this research is to examine consumer behavior on Black Friday. Black Friday is typically the busiest shopping day of the year, and it is all driven by the chance for consumers to save the most amount of money possible while getting their holiday shopping done. Research was done online, and also through personal experiences. We will write a custom essay sample on Consumer Behavior on Black Friday or any similar topic only for you Order Now By understanding what retailers and consumers hope to accomplish on this day can have a positive impact on everyone. Consumers are able to get what they want with the least amount of turmoil, and retailers are able to turn a profit. This research can be most helpful to merchants, as it will help them to understand what a consumer wants, and what they expect the unofficial holiday to be like. A complication with this research is that each consumer is different and may have different expectations in mind. Concentrating on making Black Friday as organized as possible will only benefit all parties involved. Introduction Black Friday refers to the day after Thanksgiving, which is the unofficial start of the holiday shopping season. Black Friday is a day when stores dramatically discount products with the intention of luring in the highest number of shoppers possible. The term Black Friday received its name because that is a day when, hopefully, businesses balance sheets go from red, a loss, to black, a profit (Staff, 2010). It can be a day of chaos, as seen in 2008 when a Walmart employee was trampled to death by a mob of customers (Gould, Trapasso, Schapiro, 2008). But many that day focus on saving money, and are willing to wait in lines for days for a deal. Impulsive Consumption Some of the purchases made on Black Friday may be impulsive. The textbook states that impulsive consumption is usually spontaneous and involves some feelings of liberation; is associated with a lessened sense of costs or consequences; and is motivated by a need for immediate self-fulfillment (Babin Harris, 2011). Consumers who go to a store for only a couple of items may find themselves enticed by other items that are on sale. The average person spent $365. 34 during Black Friday weekend 2010, for a total of approximately $45 billion total spent nationally (Chang, 2010). Unplanned purchases may be made because although a consumer went to a store for one sale, they may not have known all the other items that are discounted that day, and may make other purchases. Because many Black Friday shoppers are actually holiday shopping for other people, it is easy to look for a gift for one person, but find those perfect gifts for the other four people on your list, all in the name of getting a good deal. Social Environment Social environment is defined in the text as â€Å"the other customers and employees in a service or shopping environment (Babin Harris, 2011). Normally, people may be put off by crowding at stores. However, it is the norm on Black Friday. Although it is still unfavorable, it is something that people are willing to adapt to for the day. It may give a sense of urgency, which will put a consumer into the mindset of action. The text also refers to shopping buddies. Many people who wait in line for hours or even days on Black Friday do not do so alone. There are usually small groups of people, which may help to make consumers feel more comfortable. Consumers are taking more time to find buddies to shop with, and they are making an effort to have a plan in mind for what stores they will visit, and what they will purchase. For people who wait in lines for extended periods, they usually create some type of habitat to pass the time. Consumers bring tents, chairs and heaters to make themselves more comfortable. Some even bring electrical items such as lighting, computers or small televisions to keep them company while waiting for the savings to begin. The people in line usually form temporary relationships with the people that are around them. Sharing stories or deals that they are interested in is a far cry from the massive chaos shown on television news stories. Attitudes People may get caught up in the excitement of the day, and that can help them to spend even more money. While waiting in line, customers at the front of the line seem to be excited and happy. However, at the end of the line, customers appear to be more frustrated and anxious. Some consumers plan their Black Friday shopping trips weeks in advance. There are many websites available for people to view Black Friday advertisements online, before they are supposed to be released to the public. Walmart has tried year after year for the advertisements not to be leaked, but they usually end up on these websites before they are supposed to (4 Years Strong: Walmart Sends Another Cease Desist, 2011). Stores may not want to have their advertisements released early for a couple of reasons. First, consumers having the ability to research products and having too much time to explore all of their options may mean that consumers will not make as many spontaneous purchases on Black Friday. They also do not want to have their competition see their deals, and then have them beat their prices. Having the advertisements earlier though means consumers are able to plan what stores they want to go to, which may lead to less chaos on the actual day. People are motivated by saving money on Black Friday. Some consumers may even see it as a competition. For some, because there is only a limited selection available for many of the items that are drastically reduced, just acquiring that item may be all the motivation someone needs to be at the front of the line on Black Friday. A consumer may feel a sense of empowerment, or the thrill of winning, which will only intensify their moods for the day. You read "Consumer Behavior on Black Friday" in category "Papers" A consumer may be more likely to make a purchase of something out of the ordinary because of the price on Black Friday. The perceived risk is lower because the consumer balances the risk with the monetary discount that is offered, and can write it off easier. Normally, consumers may think thoroughly about an electronics purchase. However, electronics are usually a major seller on Black Friday. Because the discount is thought to be so significant, and the consumer thinks there are only a limited number available, they do not have time to think the purchase through like the normally would, and they make the purchase. What people are buying Each year, electronics are the one of the most widely sought after products on Black Friday. In 2009, the introduction of Zhu-Zhu Pets was the top search on Google referring to Black Friday sales (Wong, 2009). Surprisingly, rugs and jewelry were also top searches in 2009. In 2010, the iPad and other tablets were the top searches in electronics (Andrew, 2010). They were ollowed by laptops and HDTV’s. Handheld gadgets are expected to be a top seller for 2011. E-readers, tablets, music players and smart phones all seem to be popular searches for the upcoming holiday (Black Friday 2011 Predictions, 2011). Televisions and accessories are normally highly discounted on Black Friday, and 2011 should be no different. There may be more sales on 3D televisions, blu-ray players, and bundles of the televisions with the accessories. Cyber Monday Some consumers do not want to brave the chaos of Black Friday, and have moved to online shopping, while still looking for the dramatic discounts. Online purchases have grown steadily over the past few years, and in 2005, the term â€Å"Cyber Monday† was created (â€Å"Cyber Monday† Quickly Becoming One of the Biggest Online Shopping Days of the Year, 2005). In 2010, Black Friday sales grew 9% from the year before, but Cyber Monday sales grew 16% (U. S. Online Holiday Shopping Season Reaches Record $32. 6 Billion for November-December Period, Up 12 Percent vs. Year Ago, 01). Cyber Monday 2010 was the first billion-dollar spending day in history, and the first time that sales on Monday were higher than Friday. Many people have a four-day weekend for Thanksgiving, and are back to work on Monday. A large number of consumers are able to place orders right from a work computer, or even their smart phones. Smart phones are also making it easier for consumers to do research on sales, and to do the shopping itself. Online Black Friday sales increased 11% from 2008-2009 (Wong, 2009). Retailer Organization Most consumers on Black Friday have the same goal; to save money. If the stores are able to have some form of organization on Black Friday, it should help to keep the customers organized also. Chaos is more likely to happen when the store is not prepared for the massive number of shoppers. If the store makes adjustments to the way they normally operate, they are more likely to have an easier time handling the crowds. Passing out tickets to the customers in line for big ticket items is becoming the norm for many stores (Palmer, 2010). By doing so, customers are able to be sure they are going to receive the item they came to purchase, and it is easier to explain when they are sold out of a particular item. Also, some stores are able to rearrange their stores and put the items that are on sale in a particular area, so customers will not have to search all around the store, adding to the chaos. Many stores are choosing to open very early, with some retailers, such as Toys R Us even opening on Thanksgiving night at 10 P. M (Toys†R†Us Stores Nationwide to Open at 10pm on Thanksgiving Night to Welcome Black Friday Shoppers Earlier Than Ever Before with 200 Doorbusters and More Than $11,000 in Savings on Hot Toys, 2010). As this was only introduced in 2010, it remains unknown whether other stores will follow the idea. Having enough employees at check-out and for assisting customers is also essential. Retailers may want to also hire some form of security for the day, to prevent mobs of people causing chaos. No matter how prepared a shopper may be on Black Friday, if the store is unorganized or does not have a sensible system in place, chaos may ensue because of the consumers confusion or frustrations. Customers also look for even further discounts on Black Friday by using coupons. Retailers may want to include in their advertisements and stores about their coupon acceptance policy on Black Friday. If a customer waits in line for hours, then goes in the store to get an item, then waits in line for another hour to check-out, only to find that their coupon will not be accepted, that consumer may get very irritated and that will cause further problems. Conclusion Black Friday is a day that retailers hope to make the most amount of profit. But for consumers, they hope to save as much money as possible. Many consumers make impulsive shopping decisions on Black Friday. The social environment may lead to this behavior, as many shoppers are with friends or family, and make a display out of their shopping practices on that day. The attitudes of people can vary greatly on that day also. Most people are excited, but that can turn to frustration if it does not go as planned. Purchasing trends can vary each year, depending on what the newest items are. Electronics and the newest toys are usually very popular items. Cyber Monday is also changing the way people shop, and helping them to save even more money from the comfort of their home, from work, or even on their smart phone. A retailer being organized on Black Friday is imperative, as it can affect consumer behavior and how much money they spend. References 4 Years Strong: Walmart Sends Another Cease Desist. (2011, 10 14). Retrieved 10 22, 2011, from http://bfads. net/ Andrew. (2010, 11 15). Holiday Shopping Trends and. Retrieved 10 23, 2011, from http://www. retrevo. com/content/node/1570 Babin, B. J. , Harris, E. G. (2011). CB2. Mason, OH: South-Western Cengage Learning. Black Friday 2011 Predictions. (2011, 10 11). Retrieved 10 23, 2011, from http://www. blackfriday2011. om/news/2011/10/11/black-friday-2011-predictions/ Chang, A. (2010, 11 28). Big Black Friday weekend results: 212 million shoppers, $45 billion spent. Retrieved 10 21, 2011, from http://latimesblogs. latimes. com/money_co/2010/11/big-black-friday-weekend-results-212-million-shoppers-and-45-billion-spent. html â€Å"Cyber Monday† Quickly Becoming One of the Biggest Online Shopping Days of the Year. (2005, 11 21). Retrieved 23 2 011, 10, from http://www. shop. org/c/journal_articles/view_article_content? groupId=1articleId=623version=1. 0 Gould, J. , Trapasso, C. Schapiro, R. (2008, 11 28). Worker dies at Long Island Wal-Mart after being trampled in Black Friday stampede. Retrieved 10 21, 2011, from http://articles. nydailynews. com/2008-11-28/local/17910475_1_wal-mart-worker-long-island-wal-mart-jdimytai-damour Palmer, K. (2010, 11 23). Black Friday Guide to the Best Deals and Steals. Retrieved 10 23, 2011, from http://money. usnews. com/money/personal-finance/articles/2010/11/23/black-friday-guide-to-the-best-deals-and-steals Staff, L. L. (2010, 11 24). Business News Daily. Retrieved 10 21, 2011, from http://www. businessnewsdaily. om/how-did-black-friday-and-cyber-monday-get-their-names–0754/ Toys†R†Us Stores Nationwide to Open at 10pm on Thanksgiving Night to Welcome Black Friday Shoppers Earlier Than Ever Before with 200 Doorbusters and More Than $11,000 in Savings on Hot Toys. (201 0, 11 16). Retrieved 10 23, 2011, from http://www. prnewswire. com/news-releases/toysrus-stores-nationwide-to-open-at-10pm-on-thanksgiving-night-to-welcome-black-friday-shoppers-earlier-than-ever-before-with-200-doorbusters-and-more-than-11000-in-savings-on-hot-toys-108565064. html U. S. Online Holiday Shopping Season Reaches Record $32. 6 Billion for How to cite Consumer Behavior on Black Friday, Papers

Consumer Behavior on Black Friday Free Essays

string(107) " feel a sense of empowerment, or the thrill of winning, which will only intensify their moods for the day\." Running Head: Black Friday Consumer Behavior on Black Friday Abstract The purpose of this research is to examine consumer behavior on Black Friday. Black Friday is typically the busiest shopping day of the year, and it is all driven by the chance for consumers to save the most amount of money possible while getting their holiday shopping done. Research was done online, and also through personal experiences. We will write a custom essay sample on Consumer Behavior on Black Friday or any similar topic only for you Order Now By understanding what retailers and consumers hope to accomplish on this day can have a positive impact on everyone. Consumers are able to get what they want with the least amount of turmoil, and retailers are able to turn a profit. This research can be most helpful to merchants, as it will help them to understand what a consumer wants, and what they expect the unofficial holiday to be like. A complication with this research is that each consumer is different and may have different expectations in mind. Concentrating on making Black Friday as organized as possible will only benefit all parties involved. Introduction Black Friday refers to the day after Thanksgiving, which is the unofficial start of the holiday shopping season. Black Friday is a day when stores dramatically discount products with the intention of luring in the highest number of shoppers possible. The term Black Friday received its name because that is a day when, hopefully, businesses balance sheets go from red, a loss, to black, a profit (Staff, 2010). It can be a day of chaos, as seen in 2008 when a Walmart employee was trampled to death by a mob of customers (Gould, Trapasso, Schapiro, 2008). But many that day focus on saving money, and are willing to wait in lines for days for a deal. Impulsive Consumption Some of the purchases made on Black Friday may be impulsive. The textbook states that impulsive consumption is usually spontaneous and involves some feelings of liberation; is associated with a lessened sense of costs or consequences; and is motivated by a need for immediate self-fulfillment (Babin Harris, 2011). Consumers who go to a store for only a couple of items may find themselves enticed by other items that are on sale. The average person spent $365. 34 during Black Friday weekend 2010, for a total of approximately $45 billion total spent nationally (Chang, 2010). Unplanned purchases may be made because although a consumer went to a store for one sale, they may not have known all the other items that are discounted that day, and may make other purchases. Because many Black Friday shoppers are actually holiday shopping for other people, it is easy to look for a gift for one person, but find those perfect gifts for the other four people on your list, all in the name of getting a good deal. Social Environment Social environment is defined in the text as â€Å"the other customers and employees in a service or shopping environment (Babin Harris, 2011). Normally, people may be put off by crowding at stores. However, it is the norm on Black Friday. Although it is still unfavorable, it is something that people are willing to adapt to for the day. It may give a sense of urgency, which will put a consumer into the mindset of action. The text also refers to shopping buddies. Many people who wait in line for hours or even days on Black Friday do not do so alone. There are usually small groups of people, which may help to make consumers feel more comfortable. Consumers are taking more time to find buddies to shop with, and they are making an effort to have a plan in mind for what stores they will visit, and what they will purchase. For people who wait in lines for extended periods, they usually create some type of habitat to pass the time. Consumers bring tents, chairs and heaters to make themselves more comfortable. Some even bring electrical items such as lighting, computers or small televisions to keep them company while waiting for the savings to begin. The people in line usually form temporary relationships with the people that are around them. Sharing stories or deals that they are interested in is a far cry from the massive chaos shown on television news stories. Attitudes People may get caught up in the excitement of the day, and that can help them to spend even more money. While waiting in line, customers at the front of the line seem to be excited and happy. However, at the end of the line, customers appear to be more frustrated and anxious. Some consumers plan their Black Friday shopping trips weeks in advance. There are many websites available for people to view Black Friday advertisements online, before they are supposed to be released to the public. Walmart has tried year after year for the advertisements not to be leaked, but they usually end up on these websites before they are supposed to (4 Years Strong: Walmart Sends Another Cease Desist, 2011). Stores may not want to have their advertisements released early for a couple of reasons. First, consumers having the ability to research products and having too much time to explore all of their options may mean that consumers will not make as many spontaneous purchases on Black Friday. They also do not want to have their competition see their deals, and then have them beat their prices. Having the advertisements earlier though means consumers are able to plan what stores they want to go to, which may lead to less chaos on the actual day. People are motivated by saving money on Black Friday. Some consumers may even see it as a competition. For some, because there is only a limited selection available for many of the items that are drastically reduced, just acquiring that item may be all the motivation someone needs to be at the front of the line on Black Friday. A consumer may feel a sense of empowerment, or the thrill of winning, which will only intensify their moods for the day. You read "Consumer Behavior on Black Friday" in category "Papers" A consumer may be more likely to make a purchase of something out of the ordinary because of the price on Black Friday. The perceived risk is lower because the consumer balances the risk with the monetary discount that is offered, and can write it off easier. Normally, consumers may think thoroughly about an electronics purchase. However, electronics are usually a major seller on Black Friday. Because the discount is thought to be so significant, and the consumer thinks there are only a limited number available, they do not have time to think the purchase through like the normally would, and they make the purchase. What people are buying Each year, electronics are the one of the most widely sought after products on Black Friday. In 2009, the introduction of Zhu-Zhu Pets was the top search on Google referring to Black Friday sales (Wong, 2009). Surprisingly, rugs and jewelry were also top searches in 2009. In 2010, the iPad and other tablets were the top searches in electronics (Andrew, 2010). They were ollowed by laptops and HDTV’s. Handheld gadgets are expected to be a top seller for 2011. E-readers, tablets, music players and smart phones all seem to be popular searches for the upcoming holiday (Black Friday 2011 Predictions, 2011). Televisions and accessories are normally highly discounted on Black Friday, and 2011 should be no different. There may be more sales on 3D televisions, blu-ray players, and bundles of the televisions with the accessories. Cyber Monday Some consumers do not want to brave the chaos of Black Friday, and have moved to online shopping, while still looking for the dramatic discounts. Online purchases have grown steadily over the past few years, and in 2005, the term â€Å"Cyber Monday† was created (â€Å"Cyber Monday† Quickly Becoming One of the Biggest Online Shopping Days of the Year, 2005). In 2010, Black Friday sales grew 9% from the year before, but Cyber Monday sales grew 16% (U. S. Online Holiday Shopping Season Reaches Record $32. 6 Billion for November-December Period, Up 12 Percent vs. Year Ago, 01). Cyber Monday 2010 was the first billion-dollar spending day in history, and the first time that sales on Monday were higher than Friday. Many people have a four-day weekend for Thanksgiving, and are back to work on Monday. A large number of consumers are able to place orders right from a work computer, or even their smart phones. Smart phones are also making it easier for consumers to do research on sales, and to do the shopping itself. Online Black Friday sales increased 11% from 2008-2009 (Wong, 2009). Retailer Organization Most consumers on Black Friday have the same goal; to save money. If the stores are able to have some form of organization on Black Friday, it should help to keep the customers organized also. Chaos is more likely to happen when the store is not prepared for the massive number of shoppers. If the store makes adjustments to the way they normally operate, they are more likely to have an easier time handling the crowds. Passing out tickets to the customers in line for big ticket items is becoming the norm for many stores (Palmer, 2010). By doing so, customers are able to be sure they are going to receive the item they came to purchase, and it is easier to explain when they are sold out of a particular item. Also, some stores are able to rearrange their stores and put the items that are on sale in a particular area, so customers will not have to search all around the store, adding to the chaos. Many stores are choosing to open very early, with some retailers, such as Toys R Us even opening on Thanksgiving night at 10 P. M (Toys†R†Us Stores Nationwide to Open at 10pm on Thanksgiving Night to Welcome Black Friday Shoppers Earlier Than Ever Before with 200 Doorbusters and More Than $11,000 in Savings on Hot Toys, 2010). As this was only introduced in 2010, it remains unknown whether other stores will follow the idea. Having enough employees at check-out and for assisting customers is also essential. Retailers may want to also hire some form of security for the day, to prevent mobs of people causing chaos. No matter how prepared a shopper may be on Black Friday, if the store is unorganized or does not have a sensible system in place, chaos may ensue because of the consumers confusion or frustrations. Customers also look for even further discounts on Black Friday by using coupons. Retailers may want to include in their advertisements and stores about their coupon acceptance policy on Black Friday. If a customer waits in line for hours, then goes in the store to get an item, then waits in line for another hour to check-out, only to find that their coupon will not be accepted, that consumer may get very irritated and that will cause further problems. Conclusion Black Friday is a day that retailers hope to make the most amount of profit. But for consumers, they hope to save as much money as possible. Many consumers make impulsive shopping decisions on Black Friday. The social environment may lead to this behavior, as many shoppers are with friends or family, and make a display out of their shopping practices on that day. The attitudes of people can vary greatly on that day also. Most people are excited, but that can turn to frustration if it does not go as planned. Purchasing trends can vary each year, depending on what the newest items are. Electronics and the newest toys are usually very popular items. Cyber Monday is also changing the way people shop, and helping them to save even more money from the comfort of their home, from work, or even on their smart phone. A retailer being organized on Black Friday is imperative, as it can affect consumer behavior and how much money they spend. References 4 Years Strong: Walmart Sends Another Cease Desist. (2011, 10 14). Retrieved 10 22, 2011, from http://bfads. net/ Andrew. (2010, 11 15). Holiday Shopping Trends and. Retrieved 10 23, 2011, from http://www. retrevo. com/content/node/1570 Babin, B. J. , Harris, E. G. (2011). CB2. Mason, OH: South-Western Cengage Learning. Black Friday 2011 Predictions. (2011, 10 11). Retrieved 10 23, 2011, from http://www. blackfriday2011. om/news/2011/10/11/black-friday-2011-predictions/ Chang, A. (2010, 11 28). Big Black Friday weekend results: 212 million shoppers, $45 billion spent. Retrieved 10 21, 2011, from http://latimesblogs. latimes. com/money_co/2010/11/big-black-friday-weekend-results-212-million-shoppers-and-45-billion-spent. html â€Å"Cyber Monday† Quickly Becoming One of the Biggest Online Shopping Days of the Year. (2005, 11 21). Retrieved 23 2 011, 10, from http://www. shop. org/c/journal_articles/view_article_content? groupId=1articleId=623version=1. 0 Gould, J. , Trapasso, C. Schapiro, R. (2008, 11 28). Worker dies at Long Island Wal-Mart after being trampled in Black Friday stampede. Retrieved 10 21, 2011, from http://articles. nydailynews. com/2008-11-28/local/17910475_1_wal-mart-worker-long-island-wal-mart-jdimytai-damour Palmer, K. (2010, 11 23). Black Friday Guide to the Best Deals and Steals. Retrieved 10 23, 2011, from http://money. usnews. com/money/personal-finance/articles/2010/11/23/black-friday-guide-to-the-best-deals-and-steals Staff, L. L. (2010, 11 24). Business News Daily. Retrieved 10 21, 2011, from http://www. businessnewsdaily. om/how-did-black-friday-and-cyber-monday-get-their-names–0754/ Toys†R†Us Stores Nationwide to Open at 10pm on Thanksgiving Night to Welcome Black Friday Shoppers Earlier Than Ever Before with 200 Doorbusters and More Than $11,000 in Savings on Hot Toys. (201 0, 11 16). Retrieved 10 23, 2011, from http://www. prnewswire. com/news-releases/toysrus-stores-nationwide-to-open-at-10pm-on-thanksgiving-night-to-welcome-black-friday-shoppers-earlier-than-ever-before-with-200-doorbusters-and-more-than-11000-in-savings-on-hot-toys-108565064. html U. S. Online Holiday Shopping Season Reaches Record $32. 6 Billion for How to cite Consumer Behavior on Black Friday, Papers

Obama and the Immigration Reform free essay sample

â€Å"Obama set out to transform the US and her society during his presidency, but this is proving ever more difficult. † Obama had taken office in 2009 with the promise of introducing an immigration reform. He wanted to include a right of residence for immigrants who came as children of illegal immigrants to the United States. It is the third major project in his first term after the reform of health insurance and financial supervision. Illegal immigration is one of the most urgent domestic problems in the U. S. a reform could be one of the riskiest projects. Everyone was talking about the reform, shortly before the effective date of SB 1070 in Arizona which was the hardest immigration law of the country. This law included tough measures against immigrants. It stipulated, for example that the police officers had to control every person where they suspected they may find illegal immigrants. Even if someone from a completely different reason, for example for a traffic offense h as contact with the police, his immigration status must be checked. We will write a custom essay sample on Obama and the Immigration Reform or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page The wearing of this document is obligatory although it is not actually prescribed in the United States. Obama had therefore criticized the law. The Federal Justice Department complained about it and the Senate worked out a draft for a federal law. Everyone agreed that something must be done but the nation was divided. The Democrats wanted to allow the citizenship for illegal immigrants under certain conditions but the Republicans denounced these plans as mass amnesty and requested for a strengthening of border security and tough measures against illegal immigrants. In 2010 Obamas immigration reform failed because only 55 politicians voted in the Senate. 60 votes were needed almost all Republicans voted against it. In May 2011 Obama took a new approach by making a speech in El Paso. On the one hand, he emphasized his hardness at the border security to reassure conservative Whites. He had increased to 20,000 men to the border security and under him deported estimated 400,000 illegal immigrants, he said. On the other hand, he campaigned with a view to the Latino voters for a more liberal immigration law. The 50 million Latinos living legally in the United States are the largest and fastest-growing minority and an important group of voters, the Republicans need to take into consideration. However, this group contributed significantly Obamas election victory. Moreover Obama stressed the economic benefits of immigration reform which is an economic necessity. The illegal employment could be contained if millions of immigrants would get legal residency status. He also wants to make it easier for foreign students after graduation to stay in the country and to get work. On the world market, we need all the skills that we can get, said Obama and referred to the various waves of immigration in history which has made the country stronger and more prosperous. But the administration of Barack Obama is stricter than the previous administration under George W. Bush against illegal immigration. More than 396 000 people were deported in the past twelve months more than ever before. Washington stress ed that it was focusing on the increased deportations of illegal immigrants among the law-breakers rather than immigrants living inconspicuously. More than half of those which had been deported are convicted criminals. The proportion was almost twice as high as two years ago. One fifth of the deportees had failed immigration rules again. All in all Obama could not really keep his campaign promise. Many people are angry and disappointed about it. In 2008 Latinos contributed Obama’s election victory. So in the election 2012 Obama must try to win the trust of Latinos again, otherwise it might be difficult for Obama to be re-elected.

Customer Intimacy and Other Value Disciplines

Introduction This essay is based on an article, Customer Intimacy and Other Value Disciplines by Michael Treacy and Fred Wiersema (1992). The Value Disciples model focuses on three areas, which organizations should act upon in their operations to gain market shares. Treacy and Wiersema (1992) note that an organization should choose one of the value disciplines and concentrate on it constantly and vigorously, but it must also not ignore the other two areas. The two areas must meet the industry standards.Advertising We will write a custom case study sample on Customer Intimacy and Other Value Disciplines specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Operational excellence enhances organizational operations through quality services at low prices. Organizations should focus on efficiency, management of the supply chain, and streamline operations. Product leadership should focus on innovation, product design, development, short time frame, and bra nding in a highly dynamic market. Customer intimacy requires organizations to succeed in customer service and attention by tailoring products and services to meet specific needs of customers. In addition, organizations should also concentrate customer relationship management, exceed customers’ expectations in product and service delivery, focus on customer lifetime value, and be reliable and close to customers. Therefore, according to Treacy and Wiersema (1992), these are the three ways to achieve market leadership. The problem or opportunity for the organization Losing market share Compaq, Home Depot’s competitors, and Adidas lost market shares to their rivals because of the failure to understand and focus on the three ways for achieving market leadership. On the other hand, organizations, such as Compaq, Nike, and Home Depot gained significant market shares from their competitors because they focused on one of the value disciplines. Firms could lose market shares du e to several reasons. For instance, Compaq lost market share to Dell other competitors because of weaknesses in its delivery systems. Dell realized that Compaq and IBM delivery systems were weak. While its competitors concentrated lower prices, Dell developed an efficient operating model that eliminated dealers and distributors. This enhanced operational efficiency and excellence. As a result, Dell was able to acquire a significant market share from its competitors. Second, organizations lose market shares when they fail in product development. Product development requires creativity, which might be lacking in an organization. Firms that lose market shares have failed to recognize and embrace new ideas from outside. Unlike successful firms, organizations that lose market share fail to develop and commercialize their ideas fast. This could result from a failure to engineer business and management processes quickly. When organizations fail to pursue new solutions persistently, their p roducts may become obsolete as competitors develop better ones to meet emerging needs of customers. Therefore, product leaders must persistently seek for new solutions and commercialize the resultant products. Johnson Johnson has been able to get new ideas, develop them quickly, and seek for new solutions. Third, firms also lose market share due to failure to focus on customer service and related aspects of customer management. There are organizations, which have poor customer service. In most cases, customers tend not to visit such stores again. Such organizations underestimate the value of customers to their business.Advertising Looking for case study on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More It is imperative for organizations to stress the importance of customer service. Home Depot managed to outperform its competitors because it focused on intimate customer service. The company realized that not all customer s required similar services. Home Depot ensures that its customers get the right product irrespective of its price. Home Depot employees spend adequate time necessary to ensure that all customers get products that will solve their problems. This is the company’s first priority. Fourth, changes in the market may also result into a loss of market shares. For instance, when competitors emerged, GE realized that it could no longer rely on the loaded dealer concept to meet its customers’ needs. Consequently, the company had to review its distribution model. The model was expensive for some dealers. Moreover, low-priced competing products from Circuit City emerged to take GE’s market share. The underlying causes of the problems or opportunities Distribution channels and competition Organizations face several challenges during their existence. Some of these challenges could be both internal and external. Irrespective of the sources of the problems, firms should find ap propriate solutions for overcoming problems. One major challenge that Compaq faced in the PC market was in its distribution channel and retail stores. The distribution channel resulted in slow deliveries and inventory movement. On this note, Dell saw an opportunity to conduct direct deliveries of computers to its customers immediately. The move was so radical that other PC makers did not anticipate it, and the direct delivery was able to enhance efficiency in the operating model as the company sought for operational excellence. At the same time, Dell was able to enhance its production efficiency and meet the market price as it strived to perfect its Web delivery model. Compaq still relied on distributors and retailers despite their delays and costs. GE had to review its loaded dealer concept as the strategy became expensive and unsustainable for many small retailers. At the same time, the company started to experience effects of competition from City Circuit. Moreover, low-priced pr oducts also entered the market. GE was quick to react to such changes, and it did not lose huge segment of its market shares to competitors. The company embarked on developing high quality products at relatively competitive prices with minimal challenges. Consequently, it had to abandon the dealer concept and focus a new operational strategy. This changed the product manufacturing, selling, and distributing strategies.Advertising We will write a custom case study sample on Customer Intimacy and Other Value Disciplines specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More In this new distribution model, the Direct Connect System, GE ensured that its retailers and distributors did not have their own inventories. Instead, they used a virtual inventory of GE, which was supported by a computer program. The computer-based logistics model allowed retailers to see the available products at GE and make their orders based on customers’ demands. Failure to customized products to meet customers’ specific needs Home Depot was able to acquire market share from its competitors because it listened to its customers. This implies that Home Depot competitors failed to focus on customers’ specific needs. The company ensured that its clerks spent adequate time with customers in order to establish their needs and identify specific products, which could solve their home-repair issues. Home Depot focused on excellent customer service, which other competitors had ignored. Its first priority was meeting unique needs of customers irrespective of the cost of products. Home Depot based its business model on customer satisfaction, low prices, and provision of relevant information to customers. However, any customers who only expressed price concerns were not within the core market of the company. While other companies had failed to establish customer intimacy, Home Depot exploited this opportunity to gain its market share. Other firms, such as Kraft Foods have developed customer intimacy, which has allowed them to segment their services and enhance efficiency. Organizations that focus on customer intimacy have also changed their approaches to meet such requirements in customer intimacy. For instance, Kraft ensures that its advertisement, products, promotional materials, and operations in a single outlet or in stores in a specific area must appeal to a given customer base within that locality. The company has concentrated on collecting information from its customers and applying analytical techniques from collected data in order to derive insights for strategic decision-making. Not many companies use data to get insights for decision-making. Moreover, Kraft invested in educating its salespersons so that they could develop merchandise programs for their specific stores in different locations.Advertising Looking for case study on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Product development Normally, firms that have failed to develop their products to meet changing needs of customers lose their market share to competitors, which continuously develop new products for dynamic, unique needs of their customers. Thus, failure to develop new products could be an underlying cause of problems in a competitive market. Organizations that aim to be product leaders must strive to develop latest products and services for customers. However, not many organizations may challenge themselves adequately to attain that goal. This could happen for three reasons. First, creativity is a technical process, which is elusive. It requires organizations to identify and accommodate ideas that emanate outside the company. Second, organizations must commercialize their ideas fast. However, turning an innovative idea into a revenue-generating venture is a challenging task. It requires investment, collaboration within the entire organization, and the speed to achieve the desired o utcomes. Finally, organizations must engage in constant search for new solutions in order to improve upon their products. This would ensure that their solutions and technologies do not become obsolete in the market due to competition. This is the most critical aspect in product development. However, product development may face some impediments in an organization. For instance, bureaucracy in a firm slows down product development and its subsequent commercialization. Thus, any bureaucratic organization will fail in the process of developing new innovative products. Organizations, which seek for product leadership, must eliminate bureaucracy and make quick decisions. Companies that rely on data have enhanced their decision-making abilities as the case of Kraft indicated. Such companies facilitate all processes with urgency. In addition, they engage in a constant search for new ideas and implementation processes to shorten the product development cycles. For instance, Japanese automob ile industry has relied on concurrent development processes to reduce the time it takes to develop products and supply them to the market. Such strategies allow them to evaluate several ideas and adopt only those with favorable outcomes. Suggested solutions for the problems or opportunities Based on the article, Treacy and Wiersema (1992) noted that organizations could overcome their challenges by adopting one of the three disciplines and achieving the industry standards on the other two. That is, a focus on customer intimacy, product leadership, and operational excellence offer both solutions and opportunities for organizational challenges (Treacy and Wiersema, 1992). Firms that focus on operational excellence insistently concentrate on discovering new ways of reducing overhead costs, eliminating redundancy procedures, lowering transactional and other unnecessary costs, and enhancing business processes across different departments. Therefore, organizations must focus on delivering quality products at competitive prices without inconvenience to customers. Operational excellence defines a company’s internal procedures and its relationship with customers and other stakeholders with ultimate aims of delivering efficiency through lean processes. Another approach that a firm may use to solve its problems and exploit the available opportunities is through customer intimacy. In this approach, companies must consistently develop and shape their products and services to meet dynamic, unique needs of individual customers. They may adopt analytical techniques in order to derive insights from their customers’ behaviors and habits. Such insights can facilitate decision-making and development of appropriate customer service and communication tools. The final approach is product leadership. This aims to solve challenges and identify opportunities associated with product development. Organizations must focus on developing new products and services that meet need s of their customers. However, any organization that strives to become a product leader must have the required resources and management capabilities for risk management due to unforeseen challenges. Such organizations must attract new ideas, develop them fast, and concentrate on improving their ideas and products. According to Treacy and Wiersema (1992), it is difficult to plan to excel in product leadership, particularly if the idea may never thrive. At the same time, deep analysis of processes may also not be effective for product leaders. Instead, product leaders should recognize opportunities and react to them immediately as they occur. A quick reaction allows product leaders to handle the unknown effectively. Such organizations must also protect environments in which they operate. At the same time, organizations must understand their internal capabilities and culture as defined by their value discipline. Moreover, such organizations must also evaluate their competitors’ strengths and weaknesses. Above all, product leaders must strive to sustain product leadership. Reference Treacy, M., and Wiersema, F. (1992). Customer Intimacy and Other Value Disciplines. Harvard Business Review, 84-93. This case study on Customer Intimacy and Other Value Disciplines was written and submitted by user Eli Cook 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.

Characteristics of Ancient Monumental Architecture

Characteristics of Ancient Monumental Architecture The term monumental architecture refers to large humans include pyramids, large tombs, and burial mounds, plazas, platform mounds, temples and churches, palaces and elite residences, astronomical observatories, and erected groups of standing stones. The defining characteristics of monumental architecture are their relatively large size and their public nature- the fact that the structure or space was built by lots of people for lots of people to look at or share in the use of, whether the labor was coerced or consensual, and whether the interiors of the structures were open to the public or reserved for an elite few.   Who Built the First Monuments? Until the late 20th century, scholars believed that monumental architecture could only be constructed by complex societies with rulers who could conscript or otherwise convince the residents into working on large, non-functional structures. However, modern archaeological technology has given us access to the earliest levels of some of the most ancient tells in northern Mesopotamia and Anatolia, and there, scholars discovered something amazing: monumentally-sized cult buildings were constructed at least 12,000 years ago, by what started out as egalitarian hunters and gatherers. Before the discoveries in the northern Fertile Crescent, monumentality was considered costly signaling, a term that means something like elites using conspicuous consumption to demonstrate their power. Political or religious leaders had public buildings built to indicate that they had the power to do so: they certainly did that. But if hunter-gatherers, who ostensibly didnt have full-time leaders, built monumental structures, why did they that do that? Why Did They Do That? One possible driver for why people first started building special structures is climate change. Early Holocene hunter-gatherers living during the cool, arid period known as the Younger Dryas were susceptible to resource fluctuations. People rely on cooperative networks to get them through times of social or environmental stress. The most basic of these cooperative networks is food sharing. Early evidence for feasting- ritual food sharing- is at Hilazon Tachtit, about 12,000 years ago. As part of a highly organized food-sharing project, a large-scale feast can be a competitive event to advertise community power and prestige. That may have led to the construction of larger structures to accommodate larger numbers of people, and so forth. It is possible that the sharing simply stepped up when the climate deteriorated. Evidence for the use of monumental architecture as evidence for religion usually involves the presence of sacred objects or images on the wall. However, a  recent study by behavioral psychologistsYannick Joye and Siegfried Dewitte (listed in the sources below) has found that tall, large-scale buildings produce measurable feelings of awe in their viewers. When awe-struck, viewers typically experience momentary freezing or stillness. Freezing is one of the main stages of the defense cascade in humans and other animals, giving the awe-struck person a moment of hyper-vigilance toward the perceived threat. The Earliest Monumental Architecture The earliest known monumental architecture is dated to the periods in western Asia known as pre-pottery Neolithic A (abbreviated PPNA, dated between 10,000–8,500 calendar years BCE [cal BCE]) and PPNB ( 8,500–7,000 cal BCE). Hunter-gatherers living in communities such as Nevali Çori, Hallan Çemi, Jerf el-Ahmar, D’jade el-Mughara, Çayà ¶nà ¼ Tepesi, and Tel Abr all built communal structures (or public cult buildings) within their settlements. At Gà ¶bekli Tepe, in contrast, is the earliest monumental architecture located outside of a settlement- where it is hypothesized that several hunter-gatherer communities gathered regularly. Because of the pronounced ritual / symbolic elements at Gà ¶bekli Tepe, scholars such as Brian Hayden have suggested that the site contains evidence of emergent religious leadership. Tracing the Development of Monumental Architecture How cult structures might have evolved into monumental architecture has been documented at Hallan Çemi. Located in southeastern Turkey, Hallan Cemi is one of the oldest settlements in northern Mesopotamia. Cult structures significantly different from regular houses were constructed at Hallan Cemi about 12,000 years ago, and over time became larger and more elaborate in decoration and furniture. All of the cult buildings described below were located at the center of the settlement and arranged around a central open area about 15 m (50 ft) in diameter. That area contained dense animal bone and fire-cracked rock from hearths, plaster features (probably storage silos), and stone bowls and pestles. A row of three horned sheep skulls was also found, and this evidence together, say the excavators, indicates that the plaza itself was used for feasts, and perhaps rituals associated with them. Building Level 3 (the oldest): three C-shaped buildings made of river pebbles about 2 m (6.5 ft) in diameter and mortared with white plasterBuilding Level 2: three circular river-pebble buildings with paved floors, two 2 m in diameter and one 4 m (13 ft). The largest had a small plastered basin in the center.Building Level 1: four structures, all constructed of sandstone slabs rather than river pebbles. Two are relatively small (2.5 m, 8 ft in diameter), the other two are between 5-6 m (16-20 ft). Both of the larger structures are fully circular and semi-subterranean (excavated partly into the ground), each with a distinctive semicircular stone bench set against the wall. One had a complete auroch skull which apparently hung on the north wall facing the entrance. The floors had been resurfaced multiple times with a distinctive thin yellow sand and plaster mixture over a relatively sterile fine dirt fill. Few domestic materials were found inside the structures, but there were exotics, including copper ore and obsidian. Examples Not all monumental architecture was (or is for that matter) built for religious purposes. Some are gathering places: archaeologists consider plazas a form of monumental architecture since they are large open spaces built in the middle of town to be used by everyone. Some are purposeful- water control structures like dams, reservoirs, canal systems, and aqueducts. Sports arenas, government buildings, palaces, and churches: of course, many different large communal projects still exist in modern society, sometimes paid for by taxes. Some examples from across time and space include Stonehenge in the UK, the Egyptian Giza Pyramids, the Byzantine Hagia Sophia, the Qin Emperors Tomb, the American Archaic Poverty Point earthworks, Indias Taj Mahal, Maya water control systems, and the Chavin culture Chankillo observatory. Sources Atakuman, Çigdem. Architectural Discourse and Social Transformation During the Early Neolithic of Southeast Anatolia. Journal of World Prehistory 27.1 (2014): 1-42. Print. Bradley, Richard. Houses of Commons, Houses of Lords: Domestic Dwellings and Monumental Architecture in Prehistoric Europe. Proceedings of the Prehistoric Society 79 (2013): 1-17. Print. Finn, Jennifer. Gods, Kings, Men: Trilingual Inscriptions and Symbolic Visualizations in the Achaemenid Empire. Ars Orientalis 41 (2011): 219-75. Print. Freeland, Travis, et al. Automated Feature Extraction for Prospection and Analysis of Monumental Earthworks from Aerial Lidar in the Kingdom of Tonga. Journal of Archaeological Science 69 (2016): 64-74. Print. Joye, Yannick, and Siegfried Dewitte. Up Speeds You Down. Awe-Evoking Monumental Buildings Trigger Behavioral and Perceived Freezing. Journal of Environmental Psychology 47.Supplement C (2016): 112-25. Print. Joye, Yannick, and Jan Verpooten. An Exploration of the Functions of Religious Monumental Architecture from a Darwinian Perspective. Review of General Psychology 17.1 (2013): 53-68. Print. McMahon, Augusta. Space, Sound, and Light: Toward a Sensory Experience of Ancient Monumental Architecture. American Journal of Archaeology 117.2 (2013): 163-79. Print. Stek, Tesse D. Monumental Architecture of Non-Urban Cult Places in Roman Italy. A Companion to Roman Architecture. Eds. Ulrich, Roger B. and Caroline K. Quenemoen. Hoboken, New Jersey: Wiley, 2014. 228-47. Print. Swenson, Edward. Moche Ceremonial Architecture as Thirdspace: The Politics of Place-Making in the Ancient Andes. Journal of Social Archaeology 12.1 (2012): 3-28. Print. Watkins, Trevor. New Light on Neolithic Revolution in South-West Asia. Antiquity 84.325 (2010): 621–34. Print.

Ccounting Systems Design and Development Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Ccounting Systems Design and Development - Essay Example The system of authorising leave and other human resource issues would be faster as the authorisation would be made electronically rather than waiting upon the paper documents. Moreover, the benefit through the opening of the new system might make The Royal Australian Mint to strictly record and monitor the working performances by tracking upon the working hours of the employees. In addition, the other benefit that the organisation might expect is that the new system would significantly effect upon their area of planning which will cover the entire organisation and also will diminish the need for people to design their own systems. The Royal Australian Mint hopes that the new system would transform the organisation into an efficient workplace along with enhancement of the productivity in future. The previous Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system of The Royal Australian Mint was not capable enough to comply with the changing information requirements of the management. Moreover, the previous system became very much complex to support the various additional programs and report requests which were required to be added into the system. In order to cope up with these sorts of problems, The Royal Australian Mint felt the need of introducing new integrated system of information. The Royal Australian Mint had made each business area map out their major process activities may be due to the fact that the organisation identified the requirement for a new integrated system that would enhance their business operations. The major motive of the organisation in mapping out their major process activities was to attain knowledge regarding their current procedure of executing working activities and also seeking for the ways in order to enhance their working procedures. The Royal Australian Mint might face certain difficulties while implementing the new integrated system of information. Due

Motivation - Staying ahead of the competition ( Chapter 6) Essay

Motivation - Staying ahead of the competition ( Chapter 6) - Essay Example Recognition of gaining achievements during work is highly valued by employees and this boosts up the morale level of employees to a very large extent. Employees if motivated tend to remain highly satisfied with their working conditions. The Maslow’s hierarchy theory is a very good tool which is used for deducing the required motivation factors for the employees of the organization. Empowerment towards taking decisions of one’s job is highly motivating factor for the employees. They feel quite satisfied once they are in control of their tasks and have the autonomy to conduct the task accordingly. It is a strong stand point for the organization if they have set their goals in alignment and in consideration with the goals of their employees. If there is a point of interest of the employees towards achieving the goals for the organization, then there are high chances that the employees will be strongly motivated towards accomplishing their tasks. Strong and influential leaders possess the talent of motivating the employees to work harder. Motivated employees tend to produce better results and this in the short run as well as in the long run tend to allow the organization to remain ahead of the competition. In competitive environments, leaders tend to face difficulties in motivating their employees but with a positive attitude and delegating a strong sense of responsibility towards the employees, the organization can take its path towards success by the hard work of employees. While working in the organization, different types of conflicts may arise during working policies or decisions taking by management. Leaders should possess skills so that they can smartly deal with the conflicts that have taken place. If conflicts are resolved on a proper note then this motivates the employees to have a positive image of the organization as well as their management. Instilling a sense of positive humor and fun with

Mcdonalds As Good Corporate Citizens Marketing Essay

Mcdonalds As Good Corporate Citizens Marketing Essay Introduction The topic area of this research paper is to explore corporate social responsibility. A specific company will be chosen, researched and analyzed in depth to confirm or disconfirm whether it is truly socially responsible in its business practices. The chosen company in question is McDonalds Restaurant. In the past, McDonalds has been seen as both corporately irresponsible and socially responsible and has since been trying to keep its reputation high within its local communities and worldwide. By studying in depth the positive and negative research associated with McDonalds and its business practices, a stronger decision can be made on whether it is truly a socially responsible corporation or is putting on a faà §ade. Literature Review From initial research, many articles on social responsibility exist, however literature specifically involving McDonalds and its social responsibility do not. As a result, the topics preliminary research started on the company website to obtain an idea of what McDonalds claims to be doing to be socially responsible. The movie Supersize Me, in which the producer eats himself into an unhealthy life and body with McDonalds food, has given McDonalds a particularly unhealthy reputation. Yet, McDonalds seems to be going out of its way to battle this reputation. However, the corporations out-of-its-way actions lead to questioning whether or not there is a line between doing it out of genuine care or doing it to put on a show. Thus, this research paper serves to test the question of the fine lines of corporate social responsibility. Methodology The approach for answering the questions mentioned above is to research as much as possible to find both negative articles against McDonalds approach to social responsibility and positive articles supporting McDonalds and its many social business practices. The goal is to collect as much positive and negative data from all types of sources, such as journal articles, magazine articles, newspaper articles, databases and corporate websites. After all the research resources have been exhausted, the articles will be analyzed in terms of relevance to the question at hand and the most relevant examples will be analyzed individually in terms of the ethics of social responsibility. After interpreting all of the research together as a whole, the final result of whether McDonalds is a socially responsible corporation will be answered. Expected Results The group expects that the deep research into McDonalds intentions will yield more negative results than positive ones. It is expected that McDonalds is trying to put on more of a faà §ade than put into place actual socially responsible practices. Aside from its main and original charity practices, like the Ronald McDonald House and childrens charities, the group expects that the socially responsible acts that the corporation boasts on its website are not more than mere future promises that change with time but never become fully completed. Actual Results Environment McDonalds boasts that it prides itself on being environmentally safe and continuously innovative in its business practices. In the past, McDonalds eliminated its polystyrene packaging that had a problem being recycled and turned to newer, more environmentally friendly cardboard packaging. One of McDonalds more recent focuses have been on what they refer to as the Big Mac Problem, which is that beef production is one of the highest generators of greenhouse gases and the production practices are inefficient. However, without the pull in the beef production industry and without being able to eliminate the production of beef altogether, McDonalds would like to form a beef coalition, in which it trades with environmentally friendly groups and rallies or pushes many companies and farmers towards reducing greenhouse gases (Warner, 2009). Though McDonalds does not have the pull to change the direction of the beef production industry, it certainly has a plan to create that pull. The corporati on has also agreed to help reduce the amount of pesticide used in its potato supply chain by surveying suppliers and picking the ones that have the best pesticide reduction practices (Nations Restaurant News, 2009). As well as pesticide reduction, McDonalds has already implemented efficient, environmentally friendly, daily operating practices. The corporation has installed new fryers that are energy efficient and use less cooking oil, thus less waste (Nations Restaurant News, 2008). All around, McDonalds is implementing an act utilitarianism view into all of its environmental practices. By helping the environment, all of society benefits in health, in sustainability and in welfare. McDonalds may be taking smaller steps than what is expected of such a large corporation to help the environment and reduce their carbon footprint, but they are making sure they are benefitting the most people in every way while they do it. Health McDonalds is the most popular fast food chain in the world. With that prestige and recognition, comes the weight of both the positive and negative attributes associated with fast food. The largest criticism is by far the overall quality and health of their food. Amid the hype surrounding the 2004 documentry Super Size Me, there is a serious underlying issue that needs to be addressed. In favour of low prices and convenience, unhealthy and potentially dangerous fast food is consumed à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦an average of 11 times every two weeks (Heart and Stroke, 2005). This is certainly not a situation unique to McDonalds, but the company receives a large amount of negative attention because of it. To combat the McDonalds image of unhealthy living and its association with obesity, the company launched several initiatives in the 2003-2005 timeframe. They completely retooled their menu to include Healthy Choices salads, improved Happy Meal options such as: à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦low fat white and chocolate milk, apple juice, and Apple Dippers (White, 2006). With the menu change, came a complete marketing overhaul. This included McDonalds new Im Lovin It campaign promoting an active lifestyle, as well as the use of Ronald McDonald as a positive health role model for kids. Throughout the launch of the campaigns until the present, McDonalds has remained committed to their new vision, testing such ideas as mini-gyms for children in select stores (Horovitz, 2006), and including stepometers with certain purchases (White, 2006). McDonalds recognized that their previous business practices and overall product were not consistent with what the general public was demanding. The cultural norm has shifted over the last few decades, and the average customer began demanding that options were made available that were consistent with a healthier lifestyle. The company knew it was losing touch with its customer base, and implemented the theory of Ethical Relativism when determining what the best course of action to take was. First, they considered if their actions were the cultural norm. In the past, selling greasy hamburgers and fries may have been enough to appease the public, but today the average person is concerned with their diet and overall lifestyle. This push for an alternative from fast food chains meant that McDonalds had to consider alternate menu options if they wish to meet that cultural demand. Next McDonalds asked if offering only unhealthy options was causing harm to anyone. They saw that by offering o nly nutritionally poor foods and ignoring the promotion of exercise, people were definitely being hurt. This is represented by the climbing obesity rates, and the escalading rates of heart disease and other diet-contributing diseases. Overall, McDonalds saw that the ethical thing to do was to promote better diet and lifestyle practices in addition to their traditional menu, and went above and beyond what was expected of them to achieve this. Toy Safety McDonalds has always been very committed to safety, and this is revealed through their commitment to the safety of their toys. The toys included in McDonalds Happy Meals are a staple for kids and parents alike, and McDonalds realizes that it is important these toys are the highest quality they can be. McDonalds has been recognized for their exceptional safety standards by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, and acknowledges their contribution of both funds and technology to the commission. According to the Office of Information and Public Affairs, the funds donated purchased, à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦a computerized virtual child and a life-like breathing mannequin designed to evaluate choking and suffocation hazards (2001). This is a commitment to safety that goes above and beyond what was ever expected of McDonalds, and their track record indicates that their strict protocols are effective. Act Utilitarianism promotes the greatest good for the greatest number of people. McDonalds could have chose to save the money donated to the USCPSC, but decided that the financial pain experienced by spending this money is worthwhile when considering the overall well-being of its large youth consumer base. McDonalds could have also chose to produce cheap and unreliable toys for their Happy Meals to save money, but again, they have demonstrated that the price of potentially unsafe toys is not worth the small financial gain by doing so. Ronald Mcdonald House The Ronald Mcdonald house is just one of the ways Mcdonalds is being socially responsible. The program began in the 1970s when the first fund raiser launched to help children with leukemia. This program provides housing for families with very sick kids. The homes are nearby to hospitals which helps to keep the families together in a very difficult time for a very low cost (Ronald Mcdonald House). There are 12 Ronald Mcdonald Houses in Canada. Another part of the Ronald Mcdonald House is the Ronald Mcdonald Room. This is a room located within the hospital where the families of sick children can go. This room provides a place for parents and families to do their laundry shower, dine, cook food and use the bathroom facilities. Based on Act Utilitarianism, which is a theory that states that an action is ethical if it creates the greatest amount of happiness or pleasure for the largest amount of people. When Mcdonalds provides services for children with serious illnesses and their familie s this is creating happiness for all parties involved. The children are able to have their whole family around them in a time that is without a doubt scary for young kids. Because the children have their familys support and love this benefits the child greatly, as this will assist in their recovery from illness. Ronald Mcdonald House also benefits the parents of the children because they do not have to worry about the hassle of finding a place to live near the hospital at an affordable rate (A World of Charity: Children, families turn to RMHC in time of need, 2005). Parents are able to be close to their children when they are needed the most (Busch, 1998). The actions of the Ronald Mcdonald House are moral because they also conform to the theory of Rule Utilitarianism. Rule Utilitarianism is based on the fact that an action is moral if it creates the greatest good for the greatest amount of people but can also be sustained if everyone took that action in society. If every business i n todays society chose a charity that management felt strongly about this would be sustainable and create the greatest amount of good for all members of society. McHappy Day McHappy Day is one of McDonalds longest traditional events, held annually to help support sick children around the world. This event was established in 1977 as a one-day fundraiser for the Ronald McDonald House Charities, and has raised nearly over 26 million dollars in the past sixteen years (Z99, 2009). On this day, when you purchase a Big Mac sandwich, McMuffin sandwich or Happy Meal, McDonalds will donate $1.00 to its various childrens charities, which help support children in desperate need. In addition to the donations collected on this day, 10 cents from each Happy Meal sold regularly is donated to the Ronald McDonald House Program. (Marketwire, 2009) There are many ways in which someone can support McHappy Days in addition to purchasing the selected sandwiches. There are wristbands available for a donation of $2.00, or you can buy one of the McHappy Day products available for sale such as an apron, mugs, pens, bags, etc. You can also donate online through the McHappy Day website. Proceeds collected by the Ronald McDonald house Charities will help, à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦build and maintain houses close to hospitals, allowing ill children to stay close to their families, creating homely retreat rooms within hospitals, and [providing] free holiday accommodation for terminally ill children and their families (McDonalds, n.d.). McDonalds McHappy Day celebrations are a special day for everyone in the McDonalds environment. Some locations are visited by special guests, sports and media personalities, politicians and entertainers as they roll up their sleeves to work behind the counter and show their support (Marketwire, 2009). This may be the biggest draw for the crowd: seeing celebrities and local figures, à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦swap their glamorous day jobs for flipping burgers (Katu, 2007). For example, last years McHappy Day, Senior chief Mike Metcalf of Peel Regional Police visited his local McDonalds restaurant to lend a hand, helping to raise money for McHappy Day. Some of the proceeds from the purchase of selected sandwiches were also donated to the William Osler Hospital Foundation in Brampton, ON and Credit Valley Hospital in Mississauga (Silver Creek, 2009). McDonaldsalso holds McHappy Days for elementary and middle schools. Students are given an opportunity to see their teachers flip burgers, deep fry fri es, fill drinks and more, on their designated McHappy school days. Teachers hand out McHappy school cards to their students, which are stamped with their schools name and address. When purchasing, they give the cashier the card and $1.00 of their purchase is given to their school. At the end of the day, employees, customers, volunteers, and sponsors alike embrace the spirit behind McHappy Day; the spirit of joy. They take comfort in knowing that they made a difference and helped someone that was less fortunate then themselves. The actions performed by McDonalds in partnership with the Ronald McDonalds House charities take the characteristics of Act Utilitarianism. Ones actions must promote happiness and avoid those actions that cause unhappiness. The consequences of your actions should matter to everyone, not just those that surround you. McHappy Day promotes happiness for all. It helps the less fortunate by allowing those that wish to make a difference to participate in their community, even though they may be too busy to volunteer in more detailed ways. It truly makes a world of difference for a sick child to know that someone cares enough to participate. Animal Welfare Another way in which Mcdonalds acts in an ethical manner is that they have begun to demand that suppliers treat animals with respect. The current process for slaughtering chickens is: the live chicken is picked up and hung upside down on hooks, they are then shocked in water that has electricity running through it (which does not always kill the chicken) and finally their throats are cut. Mcdonalds is currently working with their animal welfare board to find a more humane way of slaughter called controlled atmospheric killing (CAK) (Garber, 2005). The CAK method puts the bird to sleep painlessly with the use of a gas, which would eliminate a lot of the suffering that is endured during the traditional slaughtering process. Another action Mcdonalds is taking to promote the better treatment of animals is by asking hen farmers to stop the process of debeaking and molting hens. Debeaking is a common practice as it prevents the birds which are confined to tight cages with several other birds, from killing each other. The process is extremely inhumane, leaving the hens beakless. Mcdonalds has also got its suppliers to stop molting hens, this process is carried out when the hen is at the end of their egg producing life. At this point the hens are starved, which makes them produce even more eggs. This process is inhumane as it can result in the death of the hen. Although this is only a small step in the right direction with respect to the issue of animal welfare, Mcdonalds is moving toward a more humane treatment of food animals. The theory of rights (more specifically animal rights) proves that making sure animals are treated humanely before being slaughtered is the moral action to take. At first blush one may think that it is not in the best interest of Mcdonalds to be sure their suppliers are treating animals fairly because this will only drive the price of meat products up, which in turn will drive Mcdonalds sales down. However, whether Mcdonalds is taking this action out of a sense of duty to animals or to keep their corporate image high in the eyes of the consumer it is the moral thing to do (Fast Food and Animal Rights: An Examination and Assessment of the Industrys Response to Social Pressure, 2008). The fair and humane treatment of animals can and should be enforced, whether the animal is a pet or being prepared for slaughter, has t he right to live as close to it would in nature, be treated fairly, and free from abuse. Corporate Social Responsibility Making Good Business Sense, written by Richard Holme and Phil Watts, (representing the World Business Council for Sustainable Development) described Corporate social responsibility as the the continuing commitment by business to behave ethically and contribute to economic development while improving the quality the quality of life of the workforce and their families as well as the local community and society at large. (Holme Watts, 2000) Many feel that McDonalds owes a debt to society, and that any ethically initiated activity that McDonalds takes part in is a ploy to divert peoples attention from the real issue of obesity. However, McDonalds has been interested in portraying the role of a Socially Responsible company for a longer period of time than societys recent search for a scape goat to take the blame of the wealthiest nations of the worlds rapidly growing obesity problem. In 2002, McDonalds released its first Social Responsibility Report. This report was a message to the stockholders of McDonalds, and their consumers that they were interested in ethics, and that it played an important position in the role of the company. In the report, McDonalds stated its various core values such as Giving back to the communities in which we do business, [being] committed to people and [being] dedicated to providing customers unparalleled levels of Quality, Service, Cleanliness and Value. (McDonalds CSR, 2002) Despite McDonalds efforts, both the Social Responsibility Report and the company were heavily criticized. McDonalds April 14 Report on Corporate Social Responsibility is a low- water mark for the concept of sustainability and the promise of corporate social responsibility. It is a melange of generalities and soft assurances that do not provide hard metrics of the company, its activities or its impacts on society and the environment. (Hawken, 2002) in essence, H awken and many other critiques argument is that McDonalds used a qualitative one-sided narrative to keep people stockholders happy and consumers spending. They avoided any real issues and just used numbers and data in the scenarios that would make the company look good. McDonalds has released four more CSR reports since 2002. With every new report, McDonalds has committed to increasing the transparency of the corporation to the public, and including more quantitative data rather than simply focusing on future goals. In addition, with every outcry from the public over an issue with McDonalds business the company has strived to address the issue and documented the results. McDonalds also has a code of ethics the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Senior officers must adhere. The waiver that each must sign can be listed in the appendix. In addition, Ethisphere even listed Bob Langert, VP of Corporate Social Responsibility at McDonalds, one of its top 100 most influential people of 2008 . Ethisphere had this to say: Langert and McDonalds unveiled a state of the art corporate responsibility report in 2008. If your company is working on a CSR report at the moment, it would be a waste not to take a look at McDonalds for a little inspiration. (Ethisphere, 2008) This serves as a testimony to virtue ethics. The executive officers at McDonalds are striving to cultivate virtues characters and pursue the right life for the corporation. Conclusion Critiques still argue that the CSR reports are biased and many people will argue that McDonalds is a two faced company that is only working on repaying their super sized debt to the worlds health. This will most likely continue to do so for the length of time that North Americans blame other people for their own self indulgence issues that lead to obesity. McDonalds offers a product that people ask for. There are many different types of food that are unhealthy in copious amounts. The restaurant exists however, because there is demand. McDonalds makes enough money that customers are not just paying for food; but they are also paying for McDonalds to take the blame for bad health conditions. However it is important to realize that despite the general mood that people have towards McDonalds, their policies towards maintaining environmental sustainability, auditing supply chains to prevent animal cruelty, supporting children communities, offering healthy menu alternatives, company trans parency and reporting on social responsibility demonstrates that McDonalds has dedicated itself to behave ethically and contribute to economic development while improving the quality of life of the workforce and their families as well as the local community and society at large.