Book ReviewBrief ReportSocial Systems Analysis Essay

Book ReviewBrief ReportSocial Systems Analysis - Essay Example Kotlowitz is believed to have asked their mother for permission to write about her boys and their family and surroundings. Allowing him to do so, the mother had famously said that there were no children in the Henry Horner Homes meaning that the brutal living conditions prevailing there had robbed the youngsters of their innocence. Alex Kotlowitz's hard hitting tale of the Rivers family exposes Chicago's underbelly and laying bare the harsh truth of the extreme poverty, hopelessness, racial discrimination, violence and insecurity of life that defines the world of the ghetto people. Inadequate schools, welfare dependence, governmental apathy, unemployment as well as lack of skills, drug wars and so on all play a major role in the plight of American inner-city life. The book chronicles the breakdown of the entire community where pain and sorrow is such a constant it is not acknowledged. Where young children harden early having attended more funerals than feasts and needing to run home from school to try and avoid being killed in crossfire and so live another day. Thus in another poignant quote, Lafeyette only 10 years old, observes matter-of-factly that if (not when) he grows up he would like to be a bus driver. In spite of all the seemingly hopeless, directionless confusion, the author believes things can still be turned round and tries to do his bit for the two boys by funding their education. However, this is just a drop in the ocean and drastic measures are required to ensure children are not deprived of their childhood. At another level of analysis, the Rivers family, central to Kotlowitz's story of the 'projects' lends itself to an investigation of the social system that seems to be the norm in areas like Horners Homes. It meets the requirement of Parsons'(Parsons, T. 1951, p5 as cited in Andrew Roberts) definition of a social system that says: A social system consists in a plurality of individual actors interacting with each other in a situation which has at least a physical or environmental aspect, actors who are motivated in terms of a tendency to the "optimization of gratification" and whose relation to their situations, including each other, is defined and mediated in terms of a system of culturally structured and shared symbols." However, this social system fails to hold together when Parsons' AGIL model required for the 'orderly smoothly functioning society is applied to it. For a social system to survive Parson identified four basic needs also called social system needs or functional needs. In other words to strive towards social equilibrium or a smoothly functioning society, any social system would need to have as goals the following: Adaptation, Goal-attainment, Integration and Latency or pattern maintenance Adaptation: This refers to adaptation of a society to its eco-system. This requires a mechanism to allocate resources and in a social system would be directed by the economy. Goal-attainment: To use resources to achieve certain ends, social systems usually rely on political institutions to help achieve the goals. Integration: To maintain internal order, to ensure values are maintained and symbolized, social systems follow various religions. Integration also maintains a solidarity that

Gerard Manley Hopkins Essay Example for Free

Gerard Manley Hopkins Essay The Windhover, by Gerard Manley Hopkins is a poem about the essence of natural things. This poem describes the relationship of human beings to the natural world as the poet is addressing God through the bird. It is praising him for all the marvellous things He has created and that humans can enjoy. The poem consists in three verses. In the first verse, the poet describes the power of the bird as it is portrayed as the master of heavens. This verse captures the movement of the bird in the sky. It starts with I caught this morning mornings minion that gives the feeling that the bird is a servant of the sky and it is the morning because it is a good time for hunting. Hopkins puts words together like dapple dawn-drawn to portray multi-images as here where the bird is drawn in the sky. Also, the alliteration here produces the effect of the birds movement in the air and the intensity of the poems feeling. The author writes that the bird is striding high there and this produces the image that the bird is taking huge steps in the air. The bird also rung upon the rein of a wimpling wing showing his power and control with ecstasy. The bird has control over the wind. The rhythm in this verse is very slow, yet steady. This verse consists in very long sentences that convey the effect that the bird is circling the air; with long movements it also reflects the poets feelings. This verse gives as the feeling that he poet has searched very well the words to describe his feelings but at the same time describing the bird. He searches for words that sound as they are written for example sweeps smooth. The second verse consists only of three lines explaining how the bird spots its pray and here, the beauty of the bird is more accentuated when the author uses Brute beauty to describe how beautiful the bird is, even when it is hunting. The word brute has an impact on the readers because this word means violent, wild, but here, the author uses it to emphasize that the beauty is a different kind of beauty; that it is a magnificent beauty, so marvellous and magnificent that there is no better word to describe it than brute. The poem reaches to the climax when the bird spots the pray and the author writes here buckle! as if warning us for action. To be prepared. From now on, the rhythm is more steady with lots of comas and faster than the first verse. This gives us the effect that the bird is now descending towards its pray. At the end of this verse, the author addresses to God as Oh my chevalier! and this is to thank Him for creating such marvellous things as the bird, full of Brute beauty so that humans can enjoy, even though it is only by watching them. When the author addresses to God, the rhythm changes. This matches the ecstasy of the bird in his own physical mastery of the sky. The last verse consists also in three lines, and here, the relationship of human beings to the natural world is also portrayed. This verse is more as a pronouncement. Here the author stops speaking about the bird and makes us realise how Gods beauty of creation is in everything, even in things where there is no apparent beauty. This is achieved also when Hopkins starts talking about how the shi er pli d makes even ploughing beautiful and how blue-bleak embers are also beautiful. In conclusion, I think that Hopkins decides to first start talking about the Windhover and about its Brute beauty to then compare it to the beauty found in every thing of creation. He relates human being to the beauty of nature because the beauty found in nature comes from humans sacrifice. The words on Hopkins poem impact me because they make me realise how lucky we are to be part of creation and enjoy the beauty there is from Christs sacrifice.

Marketing Environment Audit Of Wh Smith Marketing Essay

Marketing Environment Audit Of Wh Smith Marketing Essay Executive Summary The objective of this report is to conduct a marketing audit and appraise some of the processes, models and techniques used. This will include an evaluation of the actual external marketing environment in which an analysis of Porters Five Forces will be conducted to identify ways forward for WH Smith to stay competitive in the retail environment. P.E.S.T. analysis will be undertaken to identify the opportunities and threats facing WH Smith and an assessment of the actual internal marketing environment will be conducted in order to identify the strengths and weaknesses affecting WH Smith. This report found the relevant information from a variety of different sources including academic text books, case study texts, and various web sites including newspaper articles, the national statistics web sites, WH Smith annual reports and Datamonitor reports. Based on analysis from Porter Five Forces and P.E.S.T. the report found WH Smith lacking in the areas of expansion outside of the UK market in both the travel and high street divisions, WH Smith online store needs to be updated and more media needs to be added also the digital music download industry is worth looking into for future growth of the company along with the development of the already existing eBook website. And promotion and advertising is needed across all divisions and areas of the WH Smith. Introduction Background WH Smith is one of the leading retail groups in the UK. Its engaged in the retailing of newspapers, magazines, stationery, books and entertainment products. The company operates 565 high street stores and 490 travel outlets located at high streets, airports, train stations, hospitals work-place motorway service areas across the UK (WHSmithplc, 2008; Datamonitor, 2008). Key facts about WH Smith: WH Smith employs over 17,000 people. Every year 70% of the UKs population visit a WH Smith store On average, over 1.2 million people visit a WH Smith High Street store every day of the year WH Smith operates two divisions: High street and Travel. Every year 125 million travellers pass WH Smiths busiest Travel store at Londons Victoria Station WH Smith sells 1.5 million magazines every week; 24,000 magazines every hour they are open WH Smith sells in excess of 40 million books yearly On average, WH Smith sell 3,000 A4 pads daily End to end the sales of WH Smiths 3 best selling rulers would stretch from London to Spain (WHSmithplc, 2008; Datamonitor, 2008; Network Rail). Terms of Reference The aim of this report is to undertake a marketing audit appraise some of the processes, models techniques used for auditing the marketing environment. This is conducted thru evaluation of the external marketing environment assessing the actual internal marketing environment for WH Smith. From this the potential impact will be assessed to identify its impact on WH Smiths marketing planning marketing mix. The report will finish with a conclusion and recommendations will be made as regards the company going forward. Main Findings Kotler (2000, p. 708) states a marketing audit is a comprehensive, systematic, independent, periodic examination of a companys-or business units marketing environment, objectives, strategies, and activities with a view to determining problem areas, opportunities and recommending a plan of action to improve the companys marketing performance. An audit should be conducted on a regular basis, thoroughly and be well organised (CIM, 2002). An audit is undertaken so a company can identify its standing in the marketplace and involves an internal and external environmental analysis. Internal environment analysis: It is imperative for an organisation to regularly asses their marketing, financial, manufacturing and organisational competencies to ascertain the strengths and weaknesses of each factor (Kotler, 2000). Models used in this analysis: Value Chain Analysis PIMS (Profit Impact of Marketing Strategy) GAP Analysis Portfolio Analysis PLC (Product Life Cycle) Innovation Audit NDP (New Development Process) Experience Curves External Environment Analysis Theory: This analyses the micro and macro environments of the organisations which will lead to identifying the opportunities and threats facing the firm. Micro Environment: Factors closest to the organisation (customers, competitors, distributors, suppliers), these can have a considerable impact on the firms performance within the marketplace; the firm has no direct control over these factors but can have some influence (Businessdictionary, 2009). There are four techniques used in analysing the micro environment: Market analysis: Netmba (2007) states The goal of a market analysis is to determine the attractiveness of a market and to understand its evolving opportunities and threats as they relate to the strengths and weaknesses of the firm. Customer analysis: Identifying and understanding the needs and wants of your customers, exploring new trends for growth and expansion of the organisation (wmep, 2008). Competitor analysis: Entrepreneur (2009) describes competitor analysis as identifying your competitors and evaluating their strategies to determine their strengths and weaknesses relative to those of your own product or service Industry analysis: Industry analysis involves reviewing the economic, political and market factors that influence the way the industry develops. Major factors can include the power wielded by suppliers and buyers, condition of competitors, and the likelihood of new market entrants (Businessdictionary, 2009). A useful model that can be used when carrying out the internal analysis is Porters Five Forces: Porters Five Forces Model To quote from Hooley et al (2008, p 73) Porter (1980) suggests that five main forces shape competition at the level of strategic business units and that a systematic analysis of each in turn can help managers identify the key to competitiveness in their particular industry Competitive rivalry: Venturenavigator (2009) describes this as the intensity of competition between existing organisations in an industry. E.g. price, quality, and innovation. Threat of new entrants: Mallon (2005) suggests the risk of new entrants is based on the industrys barrier to entry, e.g. of brand capital costs, access to technology or requirements to obtain licenses. Substitutes: A substitute product is a product that replaces the need for your product altogether, e.g., Timber framed houses being replaced with steel frames (Whatmakesagoodleader, 2009). Supplier power: Buyer power looks at the relative power a companys customers has over it, size plays a factor, if the company is much larger than its suppliers, and purchases in large quantities, then the supplier will have very little power to negotiate. i.e. Tescos buying in huge amounts leads to suppliers having no power (Mallon, 2005). Buyer power: Customers can exert their power to shop around and demand lower prices; this creates price wars with companies which lead to reduced prices (Smit, 2006) also large businesses that purchase huge quantities from suppliers have greater buyer power and can demand lower prices; smaller firms do not have the same bargaining powers (Mallon, 2005). Macro Environment: Opportunities threats occur here, they are uncontrollable short-term factors that affect the organisation as well as everybody within society, and the organisation has no control or influence over these factors (CIM, 2002). In order to identify opportunities threats a PEST analysis must be conducted; this looks at four external factors affecting the firm: PEST Analysis Political: Political factors hold alot of weight over the regulation of a company e.g. consumer competition laws. Economical: The state of a countrys economy is central when deciding on business trading e.g. interest rates and inflation. Social: Social and cultural influences change from each country and must be measured e.g. changing trends, education, health system and ethnicity Technological: Technology is vital for competitive advantage, and is a major driver of globalization (Marketingteacher, 2010). SWOT Analysis: Hooley el al (2008 p42) states a SWOT seeks to identify the most significant factors, both internal and external, affecting the organisations and its markets. It provides a quick executive summary of the key issues. Secondly, however, by looking at where the strengths and weaknesses align with opportunities and threats it can help strategy formulation. The organisation can begin to see where its strengths might be best deployed, offensively and defensively, as well as where its weaknesses leave it vulnerable to change or competitor action. Porters Five Forces Analysis This analyse will report on the industry as a whole and identify ways forward for WH Smith to stay competitive in the retail environment. Buyer power High Having such a large operation gives WH Smith huge bargaining powers to negotiate terms without the risk of losing suppliers as switching costs are low and this makes industries highly competitive in reducing prices to win contracts with companies such as WH Smith (Datamonitor, 2009). Supplier power Low Supplier power becomes reduced for industries such as books, cards, stationery and entertainment because of the large number of companies within these industries that can supply WH Smith, also switching costs is relatively low (Datamonitor, 2009). Threat of new entrants High The rivalry from established competitors such as WH Smith discourages new entrants into the market but because the industry does not involve huge investment this encourages other businesses to start up (Datamonitor, 2009). Substitutes High eBooks threaten the traditional form of books but are a relatively new idea and currently not as popular as the traditional book concept, the reading devices are expensive which can turn customers off initial purchases, but WH Smith has adapted to this idea with the introduction of http://ebooks.whsmith.co.uk in October 2001 (Encyclopedia, 2002) another substitute to WH Smith is the increasing sales of second-hand books on sites such as Amazon and eBay. Competitive rivalry High WHSmithplc (2008) states large customer such as Tescos sell almost everything that WH Smith but at a reduced price such as cutting the prices of CDs to under  £10 damaging WH Smiths market share (Cope, 2003), all the while giving its customers the opportunity to carry out their grocery shopping at the same time. Consumers are looking for more value for money and it seems consumers are swapping trips to the high street in favour of a spin around a virtual store (Rigby, 2006), online retailers as Amazon give customers easy access to products online while facilitating easy access to compare prices and get more value for money. WH Smith needs to offer reduction and offers to match retailers such as Tescos and build on their web site. P.E.S.T Analysis Political: National minimum wage increase Threat The Office for National Statistics show that in October 2009 an increase from  £5.73 an hour to  £5.80 for adults was awarded with 18-21 year olds increased from  £4.77 to  £4.83. The majority of WH Smith employees would have benefited from this increase but WH Smith will be at a disadvantage with higher over heads being the main issue at a time when the economy is on a downturn (Hopkins, 2009). VAT increase in 2010 Threat Hopkins (2010) states the VAT increase of 2010 is another hit to WH Smiths profit margins as it increases from 15% to 17.5% in January, as this is necessary to bring stability to the UK economy it is also putting the company at a disadvantage, WH Smith high street stores have already seen a drop in sales over 2009 due to the economic downturn in the UK, this shows expansion is needed into other countries to avoid such risks throughout the company but as the WH Smith annual report shows there are no new plans to expand the high street division (WHSmithplc, 2009). Terrorist attacks Threat WH Smithplc (2009) states The spread of a deadly disease, an act of terrorism or war could decrease the number of customers visiting WHSmith outlets. The Travel division of WH Smith was particularly affected by such events on 11th September 2001 (New York City) and 7th July 2005 (London), which saw decreased amounts of commuters using airports and public transport which lead to a drop in sales (WHSmithplc, 2009). Due to the United Kingdoms involvement in the current war in Afghanistan WH Smiths Travel and high street divisions will be devastated by every terrorist attack in the UK for the foreseeable future due to their locations. Economical: Economic recession Threat The office of national statistics shows that the UK contracted by.02% in the third quarter of 2009 and remains 5.1% lower than the third quarter of 2008; however there is an increase in activity from the second quarter of 2009 showing the economy is slowly starting to recover. WH Smith (2009) Annual report shows high street division recorded a loss in sales of 2.3% over 2007 another loss of 5% over 2008, along with the closures of book outlets such as Borders and Woolworths this increase in the economy is good news for WH Smith in 2010. Interest rates Threat Interest rates were left unchanged at 0.5 per cent by the Bank of England today, as the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) continued its policy of keeping the price of money at record lows to stimulate the flagging economy (Sabbagh, 2010). Ian McCafferty, the chief economic adviser at the CBI, states the unchanged interest rate is unsurprising due to the fact that recovery in the UK is likely to be slow and drawn out, similar to that following the 1980s recession with sub-par growth continuing into 2011. This hold on rates will promote consumer spending but is still a threat to WH Smith as this is not a permanent hold on rates and can be increased. Unemployment Threat The office of national statistics identifies that as of 16th December 2009 the unemployment rating stood at 7.9% which was relatively unchanged from the previous quarter and has risen 1.9% on the same quarter in 2008, this stands at one of the smallest increases in unemployment since spring 2008 giving hope that the economy is back on track, with more people in employment it will promote consumer morale and more spending which will lead to increased profits for WH Smith. Social: Increase in the travel industry Opportunity A survey conducted by Travelzoo showed that over half of the UK respondents said they had plans to travel more in 2010, 66% of UK respondents are hoping to take one or two holidays and 31% are thinking about more than three trips. This shows the importance of holiday to UK residents as 25% will give up nights out, 22% will give up house improvements and 52% will get rid of luxury goods in order to be able to travel in 2010 (news.holidayhypermarket, 2009). With more people that ever travelling in 2010 it shows the travel industry is back on track and will promote increased profits for WH Smith in 2010. Acquisitions and partnerships Opportunity WHSmithplc (2009) shows acquisitions of Leeds-based UNS with 71 retail units, 8 Caffee Nuovo coffee shops in 62 hospitals and 23 airport units from Alpha Retail UK Limited also a franchise deal with Road Chef was also confirmed in 2008 (Hasell, 2008). 2010 will see six units opening in Delhi airports giving WH Smith a good share of the Indian market and shows the division is set on further international expansion outside of the UK. An alliance with Penguin in which Smiths will stock only Penguins overseas guides in the majority of its travel stores in airports, and rail and bus stations to the exclusion of all rival brands titles is another step forward in a time of retailing giants like Tescos taking over the book industry WH Smith has taken steps to ensure its competitiveness in the marketplace as discounts from suppliers ensures lower prices for end users (Freedman, 2009). High street benefited from the closure of the Woolworth stores in 2008 with WH Smith looking to have control of ten of the Woolworths stores before the end of 2009 (Felsted Lemer, 2009), this is another step forward for the UK market but having only two stores outside of the UK shows high street needs to be more active in foreign expansion. Technological: On-line sales Opportunity Whsmith.co.uk was launched in May 1999 with the intention of winning a third stake of the online book-market within three years but problems identified in customer service, lack of products available and poor promotion the site is losing customers to bigger competitors such as Amazon, the same can be said of the entertainment and eBook sites WH Smith operates (news.bbc, 1999). The economic recession is making more people price sensitive and so many more consumers are searching the internet in the hopes of better deals and a bigger range of products, as Rigby (2006) states Shoppers, it seems, are swapping trips to the high street in favour of a spin around a virtual store. Investment, promotion and management into the online stores would yield endless profits for the company. Digital music and eBooks Opportunity Encyclopedia (2002) shows WH Smith has made advancements into the eBook industry starting with the launch of http://ebooks.whsmith.co.uk in October 2001, but as with whsmith.co.uk the eBook site is lacking in promotion and available products on the web compared to Waterstones who identify eBooks as being a big part of their business and a fast growing part of the book industry over the past twelve months (Allen, 2009), also digital music is an area WH Smith has no investment in but should be taking steps to invest in as more customers are turning to digital music rather than purchasing CDs as Garrahan (2009) states Physical album sales have fallen sharply as music retailing has evolved from CD album purchases in retail outlets to digital downloads of songs from online stores. According to research the author defines the strengths and weaknesses as follows: Strengths: Widely recognised brand in the UK WH Smiths (2009) states their business model is based on their widely recognised and respected brand which has been part of the UK economy for the past 217 years, Datamonitor (2009) states The Companys brand is an important asset and strongly appeals to the customer, thereby positively affecting the companys business an example of this would be 70% of the UK population visit a WH Smith store every year (WHSmithplc, 2009). Wide retailing operation in the UK Travel operates 490units: 135 are in airports, 114 in railway stations, 118 in motorway service area, 95 in hospitals and 19 in locations such as bus stations and workplaces, nine units are in four non-UK locations, in Paris, Shannon, Copenhagen and Stockholm (WHSmithplc, 2009). High street operates in 565 High Street stores located in almost all of the UKs major high streets (WHSmithplc, 2009), it benefited recently with the closure of Woolworths and is taking the appropriate steps to expand its presence with plans to take over ten of the Woolworths sites as stated by Felsted Lemer (2009) and the recent collapse of the 45 stores Borders book chain occupied in the UK was another opportunity for expansion of the high-street stores which WH Smith decline to invest in, WH Smith had initially shown interest in a deal but then pulled out of talks (Marlow, 2009). The company has show to be a strong competitor in the UK market but more focus is needed in expansion into foreign markets as competitors such as Amazon have done. Strong performing travel division 2009 showed profits of 17% to  £48million and 8% profit growth, the division operates from 490 units (2008: 449 units), 135 are in airports, 114 in railway stations, 118 in motorway service area, 95 in hospitals and 19 in locations such as bus stations and workplaces, nine units are in four non-UK locations, in Paris, Shannon, Copenhagen and Stockholm and these units have shown to perform higher in rush hour than some lower performing high street stores (WHSmithplc, 2009). 2010 will see six units opening in Delhi airports which will give WH Smith a good share of the Indian market and shows the strength of the travel division, its stability in an economy downturn and shows the division making the necessary steps for foreign expansion (Hall, 2009). Weaknesses: Geographic concentration: Datamonitor (2009) identifies high street as having two locations outside the UK: Paris and Belfast with travel operating nine units in four non-UK locations Paris, Shannon, Copenhagen and Stockholm with six more to be opened in Delhi airports in 2010 (Hall, 2009) . WH Smith is open to many negative environmental factors having all of its operations in Europe, one such factor is the current economic recession that resulted in a 2.3% loss in sales over 2007 and another 5% loss over 2008 for the high street stores. Competitors like Amazon have operations in Canada, Japan, UK, China, France, Germany and the US; also Borders operate in Australia, Malaysia, New Zealand, Singapore and the United Arab Emirates (Borders, 2010; Amazon, 2010). As Travel is taking steps for foreign expansion high street has no plans for expansion as WHSmithplc (2009) points out The High Street plan remains unchanged thus making the company vulnerable to adverse market conditions in the region and puts it at a competitive disadvantage over global retail giants (Datamonitor, 2009). SWOT Analysis Strengths Widely recognised brand in the UK Wide retailing operations in the UK Strong performing travel division Weaknesses Geographic concentration Opportunities Increase in the travel industry On-line sales Digital music and eBooks Acquisition and partnerships Threats National minimum wage increase VAT increase in 2010 Terrorist attacks Economic recession Interest rates Unemployment Marketing mix: Product WH Smith offers a wide variety of Books, Stationary, Gifts and Cards, Magazines, DVD, DVD formats, UMD formats, Blue-ray and HD DVD, Music, Games, eBooks, PC and Electronics in the high street and travel division. WH Smith needs to invest heavily in digital media; along with eBooks focus must be put on investment in digital music as this market shows huge growth with ITunes being the market leader. Price Due to the increased amount of competition entering the market WH Smith needs to adjust its pricing structure in line with its competitors to ensure customers feel they are getting value for money thus increasing its market share, as customers become more price sensitive and shop around for better deals online and high street. Agreeing partnerships as the travel division has done with Penguin is an example, this ensures a reduced prices for the customer at the till as it reduces supplier costs, and this in turn increases competitiveness with such rivals as Tescos and Amazon. Place WH Smith high street has 564 stores present in almost all of the major high streets within the UK and travel has 481 units in airports, hospitals, motor service, bus and train stations within the UK, the UK market works well for WH Smith but it now needs to focus on foreign markets. Travel occupies nine travel units in Paris, Shannon, Copenhagen and Stockholm, the recent plan to open six units in Delhi airports in 2010 is such a way forward but more expansion into other countries is needed to stay competitive. High street offer two stores outside of the UK in Paris and Belfast with no plans to expand further in 2010, while competitors such as Amazon and Borders have a presence worldwide WH Smith needs to expand to stay competitive with such companies. WH Smith online has a weak presence, a huge amount of investment in promoting and managing the site is required. It has been shown that more people are moving to the internet for day to day purchases, research on products and value for money, if WH smith is not seen to be offering these to consumers they will move to competitors such as Amazon. Promotion Advertising offered by WH Smith is poor for all divisions as this has an impact on sales, more focus needs to be put into the advertising and promotion of both divisions, i.e. TV, radio, internet, ideas such as sponsoring Universities/teams as students would cover a big part of WH Smiths customers, reduction in prices would also be classed as advertising, cutting prices below competitors and this would also lead to customer passing on the information thru word of mouth. Marketing planning (strategic tactical planning): Businessdictionary (2010) states Tactical planning is Systematic determination and scheduling of immediate or short-term activities required in achieving the objectives of strategic planning, while Strategic planning is a business process that many companies employ to identify their critical success factors that set the course for future growth and profits (Gaw, 2009). Tactical planning as relates to WH Smith includes short term plans including pricing structures, discounts, and loyalty cards. Strategic planning is more focused on long term goals such as expansion into new markets such as the move into India with six travel units opening up also developments in industries such as digital music downloads needs to be a main focus of WH Smith going forward as the world is moving into the digital age. Conclusion The report found WH Smith to possess a huge market-share within the UK, but lacking in the areas of expansion outside of the UK compared to other competitors such as Amazon and Borders which leaves it vulnerable to negative effects on the economy such as the current economic recession. Also retailers as Tescos and Asda can offer drop down prices of mostly all products WH Smith sells included in a customers weekly grocery shopping which heightens competition for WH Smith with these retailers WH Smiths attempts into the digital era is lacking, the companies websites (entertainment, eBook, whsmith.co.uk) were found to be in need of attention is areas such as customer service, products available and promotion as customers are not satisfied with the current system. Also the digital music industry was found to be a growing market and it would be in WH Smiths interest to invest in this area. Recommendations The report finds that the WH Smith needs to be more active in promoting the company outside of the UK, competitors such as Amazon and Borders have done this successfully, expansion into other countries reduces the chance of being affected by economic factors such as the economic recession in the UK which has had negative effects on WH Smith high street division with a reduction in sales over 2007 and 2008. WH Smith on-line needs vigorous investment in all online stores, customer service, availability of products and promotion are the main issues to start with. Amazon has a great online presence as it markets its site very well, targeting its customers with items relating to previous purchases, this is a good idea for WH Smith to work on. Investment in digital music downloads is advised as this market has shown to be growing rapidly with ITunes as market leader. More partnerships like Penguin need to be agreed in both divisions, thus reducing supplier costs which can be passed onto customers; this will help with competition from Tescos and Asda. Reference/Bibliography Allen, K (2009), E-readers turn heavy textbooks into a light read just like Dan Browns latest, http://www.guardian.co.uk/business/2009/sep/10/sony-readers-boost-ebook-market (date accessed: 12/01/2010) Amazon, (1996-2010), http://www.amazon.co.uk/ (date accessed: 06/01/2010) Bintliff, E, (2009), Borders UK goes into administration, http://www.ft.com/cms/s/0/87e1fc72-dac1-11de-933d-00144feabdc0.html (date accessed: 07/01/2010) Borders, (2010), Borders stores around the world, http://www.borders.com/online/store/InternationalStoresView (date accessed: 06/01/2010) Businessdictionary, (2009), Micro environment, www.businessdictionary.com/definition/microenvironment.html (date accessed: 25/11/2009) Businessdictionary, (2009), Industry analysis, www.businessdictionary.com/definition/industry-analysis.html (date accessed: 25/11/2009) Businessdictionary.com (2010), Tactical Planning, http://www.businessdictionary.com/definition/tactical-planning.html (date accessed: 10/10/2010) CIM (2002), Marketing environment stage 1, London, BPP Publishing limited Computergram, (1998), WH SMITH BUYS EUROPES BIGGEST ONLINE BOOKSTORE, http://www.cbronline.com/news/wh_smith_buys_europes_biggest_online_bookstore?print=1 (date accessed: 07/01/2010) Cope, N, (2003), WH Smith blames Sars and fall in CD sales for profits slump, http://www.independent.co.uk/news/business/news/wh-smith-blames-sars-and-fall-in-cd-sales-for-profits-slump-537378.html (date accessed: 06/01/2010) Datamonitor, (2009), Company Profile WH Smith Datamonitor, (2009), Industry Profile Stationary and Cards Datamonitor, (2009), Industry Profile Books Dickson, M, (2005), Swann Upping, http://www.ft.com/cms/s/0/575ea15e-b2cb-11d9-bcc6-00000e2511c8.html (07/01/2010) Directgov, (2010), VAT Value Added Tax, http://direct.gov.uk/en/MoneyTaxAndBenefits/Taxes/BeginnersGuideToTax/DG_4015895 (date accessed: 10/01/2010) Drummond, G and Ensor, J, (2004), Strategic Marketing planning and control, second edition, Oxford, Butterworth Heinemann. 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Brave New World :: essays research papers

Brave New World by Aldous Huxley is a novel that takes place in Utopia. Yet in this ideal place everyone is conditioned to be happy, it is a place where various things such as the arts are restricted so all people will be synchronized in thinking. Love and commitment does not exist but rather everyone belongs to everyone else. This place is also a place where soma holidays help people escape from their realities and never have its society feel any kind of distress or illness. This place was not Utopia to John â€Å"the Savage,† it was rather a place of hell and torment which none of the things he enjoyed and loved existed. In the novel, freedom of the individual will is one of the fundamental beliefs at the root of human ideals. While the environment or the public world (society) plays some part in forming the psyche of an individual, it is in the end, the choice of the individual (John) to be who they become The whole concept of Brave New World contradicts to everything John ever believed in. John came from a world where art and expression of variation from the society existed. People must face their problems and overcome them, and love requires commitment and is greatly appreciated. John was rather a Renaissance man trapped in a world where none of his necessities in life existed. He was disgusted at their orgy-porgies, their belief of take, take, take not give, give, give. Total happiness did not exist to John in a world which lacked expression of the arts. It was rather total torment. Throughout the novel John continues to fight and believe for what he believes in while the surrounding environment continues to pressure him and submerge him into Utopian ways of life. The conflicts which were faced upon his arrival were of devastation. His life grew lonelier and lonelier each day with his dissatisfaction with the crude nature and refined society of the Utopians. He was trapped in a tedious world where there was nothing to do. John symbolizes the artist or the believer striving for ecstasy. Yet in a world of synchronized life, lack of arts, unrequited love, and â€Å"runaways† it is impossible to find ecstasy. He finds nothing worth living for in the ordinary world and strongly regrets his leave of the reservation in coming to this â€Å"boring† world. Clearly he is the image of a man trying to liberate himself from his own egotism.

Liquid Crystal Display Essay

A thin, flat electronic visual display that uses the light modulating properties of liquid crystals is known as a liquid crystal display. Direct light is not emitted by LCDs. Displaced cathode ray tube (CRT) displays of LCDs are used in most applications. Two sheets of polarizing material, are used in LCD displays, with a liquid crystal solution between them. The crystals align as a result of an electric current, so that light cannot pass through them. Each crystal, therefore, is like a shutter, either blocking the light or allowing light to pass through. Some of the technologies behind liquid crystal display are as follows Illumination-A cold cathode fluorescent lamp that is situated behind the LCD panel is used as an external lighting mechanism as LCD panels produce no light of their own. The conventional backlit LCDs are now being widely replaced by two types of LED backlit LCD displays. Active Matrix-This design depends on the usage of thin film transistors (TFT) — basically, tiny switching transistors and capacitors. One of the most important technologies behind liquid crystal display. These are arranged in a matrix on a glass substrate. They are required to switch the LCD’s pixels on and off rapidly. In LCDs, each colour pixel is created by three sub-pixels with red, green and blue colour filters. Twisted Neman tics-To allow light to pass through, twisted nematic displays containing liquid crystal elements are used, these twist and untwist at varying degrees to allow light to pass though . Any grey level or transmission can be achieved by properly adjusting the level of the voltage. Advanced fringe field switching (AFFS)-This technology provides superior performance and colour gamut with high luminosity. It helps in maintaining a wider viewing angle for a professional display and also minimizing colour distortion. Enhancement of the white/grey reproduction is achieved by optimizing the white gamut which also corrects the colour shift and deviation caused by light leakage. Vertical alignment (VA)-In this technology the need for extra transistors is removed because the liquid crystal material naturally exists in a vertical state. When no voltage is applied a black display is created and a white display is created when voltage is applied. This is one of the most widely used technologies behind liquid crystal display Bluephase Mode-It is used to obtain a better display of moving images; it also helps in improving the temporal response of liquid crystal displays. This technology removes the usage of expensive colour filters also short switching times can be achieved so realization of time sequential colour coding can be done Quality Control-There maybe occurrence of defective transistors in LCD panels which cause permanently lit or unlit pixels which are known as stuck pixels or dead pixels respectively. The presence of few defective transistors does not hamper the stability of the LCD panels. However the location of the defective pixels is important . it may be rendered useless if the defective pixels are clustered or are in the centre of the viewing area . also uneven patches may occur which is termed as clauding.

What to Do if Youre in Love With a Fictional Character

What to Do if You're in Love With a Fictional Character We love to read, and when were immersed in literature, the characters come to life for us! We know them- all their most secret and intimate details. Sometimes, we become too involved in a characters life (and situation). We know what they want, who they are, and sometimes, we may even imagine ourselves into the world of the novel. What do you do if youre in love with a fictional character? Step Back   Ask yourself: Why do I love the character? Perhaps one of the things you love the most about him/her is the fact that the character is without substance (he/she is not real, at least not in a corporeal, sit-down-and-have-a-conversation-with-you kind of way). How does the character (and the episodes in the novel that compelled you to love the character) compare with your real life experiences? Pros vs. Cons Consider the characters other qualities... For every perfect character trait, the author likely included a few undesirable personality characteristics. Make a list of the pros and cons (what you love about the character in one column, and what you dislike about the hero/heroine in the other column). At the top of the con list, you can write: _____ is not real. Hes a figment of my (and every other readers) imagination! Familiarity How many times have you read the book? Have you memorized all the characters main lines? If you have memorized all the scenes, and youve imagined yourself sitting beside your fictional love, it may be time to read other books. Get critical! Use your intense fascination with the book to conduct a full study of all works by the author, as well as an exhaustive study of the novel itself. (Beyond a simple reading and re-reading, track the characters, look at the critical reception, and learn more about the historical context of the work. Think of it as your way to get to know more about the character you love. Book vs. Movie? Ask yourself: Am I really in love with the actor who plays the character in the   film version? Im not suggesting that you suddenly become a stalker, or fall violently in unrequited love with all the actors as a  stand in for literary characters. But, its a bit easier to have a crush on an actor than it is to be in love with a character in a novel. Fan-dom vs. Real Love Sometimes its easy to confuse the feelings of real love with the enthusiasm you feel when you are an ultimate fan. That giddy-obsessive feeling that you get when you find a character that represents so many romantic qualities can be can sometimes be confused with the enigmatic (often confusing) feeling of love. Support Group or Book Club After talking with a great many readers over the years, Im convinced that there are many more of you who are in love with their favorite characters than you would imagine. Of course, part of the problem is that being in love with a character from a book is sometimes not accepted by our society. But, if you are really in love with a character, I urge you to seek out others to share your passion. Start a support group. You can even start a   book club- to share the favorite books with others who love their hero/heroine just as much as you do!   Read more about Fictional Heroes We Love... In The Secret Life of Prince Charming, Deb Caletti writes: It starts so young, and Im angry about that. The garbage were taught. About love, about whats romantic. Look at so many of the so-called romantic figures in books and movies. Do we ever stop and think how many of them would cause serious and drastic unhappiness after The End? Why are sick and dangerous personality types so often shown a passionate and tragic and something to be longed for when those are the very ones you should run for your life from? Think about it. Heathcliff. Romeo. Don Juan. Jay Gatsby. Rochester. Mr. Darcy. From the rigid control freak in The Sound of Music to all the bad boys some woman goes running to the airport to catch in the last minute of every romantic comedy. She should let him leave. Your time is so valuable  and look at these guysdepressive and moody and violent and immature and self-centered. And what about the big daddy of them all, Prince Charmi ng? What was his secret life? We dont know anything about him, other then he looks good and comes to the rescue.

Gauging the Effectiveness of Anti-war Activities essays

Gauging the Effectiveness of Anti-war Activities essays The Vietnam War leaves many dark legacies described in the superlatives: the most unpopular war, the most bombs dropped compared to all prior wars combined, the worst loss in U.S. military operation, and the list goes on. However, a legacy that is acutely palpable today as many Americans protest against the war in Iraq is the phobia about sending American troops abroad - otherwise known as the Vietnam syndrome. The Vietnam War is a black hole in U.S history that Americans do not want to revisit. This is evident through the U.S.s concentrated and decisive attacks during the Persian Gulf War in 1991 (perhaps soon to be Persian Gulf War I) that never eradicated the Saddam regime and its brief involvement in the Yugoslavia ethnic cleansing crises. Now, the possibility of war is near. The fear still resonating from Vietnam and the hope for peace prompt Americans to take a place in demonstrations. However, we must ask ourselves, how effective are protests and demonstrations in changing the minds, the policy of the people who ultimately decide the course of events and are resolute to do so by force? This is not to discredit the necessity of protests and demonstrations, but to question as to how one gauges the effectiveness of such actions. Deriving from the Oxford English Dictionary, to demonstrate is to publicly manifest an interest in public issues, usually taking the form of a procession or mass-meeting, and to protest is to express dissent or rejection of prevailing issues. During the Vietnam War, a distinction arose between these two concepts. Demonstration refers to a passive manifestation while protest refers to a more forceful one. However, the goal of these two activities is essentially the same: demanding a change in policy of a certain issue, which in the context of this essay is war. Various protests and demonstrations in history yielded different results. In the 1940s, the passive resistance against...

Free Essays on Mice And Men

English coursework: who is the loneliest character in of mice and men? The novel ‘Of Mice and Men’ is basically about two characters that travel together, Lennie and George. They settle down at a ranch for work. Together they hope to pursue their American dream. It follows up on various other men at the ranch, and issues faced during the time of the American depression. ‘Of Mice and Men’ is set in the fictional town of Soledad, in southern California, situated on the Salinas River. Steinbeck set the different scenes from his own knowledge as he worked at a ranch himself. The first chapter is set beside the river with Lennie and George hiding from some people, while the main part of the novel is focused at the ranch. The final scene takes place were the journey started. The novel is mainly evolves around the misfit characters but also involving others who make the story more realistic. Men during the American depression laboured at ranches having no family or no relationship with woman. The only place they had a physical relationship was at a brothel. Throughout the novel the men threat the only woman at the ranch as if she is alien to them. Perhaps because of curlys wife’s seductive attitude. Steinbeck shows that most of the characters are uneducated by the using colloquial language, for example ‘they come, an’ they quit an’ go on; an’ every damn one of ‘em’s got a little piece of land in his head’. Steinbeck also makes use of colours and sounds to describe his characters, such as the Curly’s wife who is linked with the colour red ‘her fingernails were red; she wore a cotton house dress and red mules’. Steinbeck also based his novel in Soledad meaning loneliness in Spanish, a key theme in the novel. Steinbeck also refers to Lennie as an animal, ‘dragging his feet a little, the way a bear drags his paws’, because his muscular body and animal like behaviour. Lennie and George’s relations... Free Essays on Mice And Men Free Essays on Mice And Men English coursework: who is the loneliest character in of mice and men? The novel ‘Of Mice and Men’ is basically about two characters that travel together, Lennie and George. They settle down at a ranch for work. Together they hope to pursue their American dream. It follows up on various other men at the ranch, and issues faced during the time of the American depression. ‘Of Mice and Men’ is set in the fictional town of Soledad, in southern California, situated on the Salinas River. Steinbeck set the different scenes from his own knowledge as he worked at a ranch himself. The first chapter is set beside the river with Lennie and George hiding from some people, while the main part of the novel is focused at the ranch. The final scene takes place were the journey started. The novel is mainly evolves around the misfit characters but also involving others who make the story more realistic. Men during the American depression laboured at ranches having no family or no relationship with woman. The only place they had a physical relationship was at a brothel. Throughout the novel the men threat the only woman at the ranch as if she is alien to them. Perhaps because of curlys wife’s seductive attitude. Steinbeck shows that most of the characters are uneducated by the using colloquial language, for example ‘they come, an’ they quit an’ go on; an’ every damn one of ‘em’s got a little piece of land in his head’. Steinbeck also makes use of colours and sounds to describe his characters, such as the Curly’s wife who is linked with the colour red ‘her fingernails were red; she wore a cotton house dress and red mules’. Steinbeck also based his novel in Soledad meaning loneliness in Spanish, a key theme in the novel. Steinbeck also refers to Lennie as an animal, ‘dragging his feet a little, the way a bear drags his paws’, because his muscular body and animal like behaviour. Lennie and George’s relations... Free Essays on Mice And Men The theme of loneliness in ‘Of mice and men’ The novel of 'Mice and men’ by John Steinbeck is set in the 1930s. This was a time of economic depression in the United States. Depression was a time where there was not a lot of money around so people had to move around to find jobs. His inspiration came from his own life experiences. The book is manly about George and Lennie they are two farm workers travelling through California during the depression. Their dream is to save enough money to buy their own farm with lots of animals and rabbits because Lennie likes rabbits very much. George is bright and knows the way of the world and has always looked after Lennie, who is big and strong, but "isn’t too bright". Lennie often gets into trouble because he doesn't know his own strength, he also gets frightened when things go wrong. The story tells us how strong lennie is when he finds a mouse he starts to stroke it but since he does not know his own strength the mouse was killed. Candy is the old ‘swamper’ who cleans out the bunkhouse. He is a ‘tall stoop-shouldered old man’. He is cripple and only has one hand. He knows lots of gossip and tells George and Lennie about how the boss victimizes Crooks. Candy is lonely his only friend is his dog. He has had it since it was a puppy but everybody else in the ranch is threatening to kill it because it is useless. This is exactly how Candy feels that they will ‘can’ him soon as he is old. Crooks is the only black man on the ranch; he lives alone in a dark and gloomy room all by himself. Everybody stays away from him because of his colour. Once in the story Lennie came into Crooks’s room and they started talking because they were both lonely and they started to become friends. Crooks shares the same dream as George and Lennie which is they will live ‘off the fat of a land’ and have rabbits to tend and look after the acres they hope they will have. Curley’s...

The Cinema of Attractions Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

The Cinema of Attractions - Essay Example Still, the cinema of attractions is a way of the audience identification and the reflection of the needs of the society of nineteenth and early twentieth century. In case the cinema was able to show something, it was considered to be a good cinema. The early cinema is of the exhibitionist nature. The audience is targeted by the specific images they want to see. Gunning claims that it was very important the way camera interacted with the eyes of an actor. In such a way, the audience had a chance to feel an interaction with heroes on the screen. Both of them were watchers (Diiorio, 2003). The attention of a spectator was very important for the directors of early cinema. This aspect was specially supervised. That is why they were really concerned about visual contact between the viewers and the actors. Only images, which were shown to the audience, were important for them. We can illustrate this claim by the film directed by Edwin Porter â€Å"The Great Train Robbery† in 1903. In this film the bandit looks at the audience and makes a shot. The viewers are able to see the smoke of the gun. This scene happens in the beginning of the film and the audience catches its breath in a foretaste of further events or images. This move is referred by Gunning as exhibitionist move showing the views what will happen next. Gunning claims that: â€Å"the cinema of attractions does not disappear with the dominance of narrative, but rather goes underground, both into certain avant-garde practices and as a component of narrative films, more evident in some genres than in others†. If not images are practiced as the tools to exert influence on the audience, then music is often used by the directors of the later films. (after 1906). In the film directed by Victor Fleming â€Å"The Wizard of Oz† (1939), the events are surrounded by music (Faden, 2001). We can see the way the main characters show their inner states. This technique is used by the directors in order to make them understand further development of events. Therefore, the narrative is supported by music and there is a lack of exhibitionist strategy in it. Viewers obtain help from the directors in order to perceive what is going on the screen correctly. Thus, attractions in the early films were used as tools to grasp attention of the audience and in later films director’s techniques were used to understand moods of the cinema’s characters (Brewster & Jacobs, 1997). According to Gunning, â€Å"This is not to say that narrative films are entirely separate to the world of the cinema of attraction. On the contrary, narratives will often incorporate this form of cinema into their development. However, since this method of cinema does tend to disrupt the realistic illusion created by the audience’s lack of self-awareness, incorporating it usually has a result of slowing down the progression of the narrative† (Gunning, 2000). Therefore, the cinema of attractions c omprises films before 1906 and avant-garde films, but nowadays many directors use these techniques as well. Modern Hollywood films are also based on the techniques of attraction, when the audience can see the face of the main character clearly and feel with him or understand him better. The exhibitionist nature of the cinema of attractions was mainly used for creation of a special atmosphere on the screen. There are special concepts of attraction in

Management of change - How organisational structure and culture can Essay

Management of change - How organisational structure and culture can influence the promotion or inhibition of change strategies w - Essay Example As such, the only way to remain competitive is to be able to change strategies in a manner that ensures the company remains competitive. This is particularly important for the engineering organizations that operate in a very competitive environment. Despite the benefits that change brings in an organization, most managers and employees are often resistant to change. Martins and Terblanche (2003, p. 68) noted that most employees and managers fear change and will often resist it. The reasons for resisting change are many, including fear of losing jobs, fear of changing the organization structure, culture, and fear of new responsibilities, just to name but a few. However, the organizational structure and culture has a huge influence on the change strategies that an organization may adopt at any one time. In this regard, the organizational structure and culture can either promote or impede the change strategies within an organization. The aim of this discourse is to explore the extent to which an organizational structure and culture can promote or inhibit change strategies within an organization. Organizational Culture and Change Management Culture plays a crucial role in driving a company to success. Pheysey (1993, p. 9) defines organizational culture as a set of norms and beliefs of an organization. In other words, it refers an organization’s ways of doing things. As earlier stated, organizations operate in a dynamic environment where change is necessary. Today, no company can compete favorably without embracing change, according to West and Farr (1990, p. 5). However, most managers tend to resist change when faced with the pressure of change. This is partly due to the organizational culture. For instance, most managers would try to deal with challenges facing the organization they manage by reverting the company’s traditional ways of doing things. In this regard, whenever a manager is confronted with the pressure for change, the manager will most l ikely try to deal with the situation in suh as way that is in line with the organizations ways of doing things. However, sticking to these cultural nuances impede the management of strategic change. Kotter and Heskett (1992, p. 13) advised that sticking to cultural ways of dealing with pressures of change may not be good for an organization since it inhibits the management of strategic change in an organization. For example, instead of adopting a new strategy of dealing with a situation in an organization, most managers tend to search for what they can understand and manage in terms of the existing paradigm. The adoption of cultural ways of doing things has been reported in the engineering companies where most managers tend to stick to traditional ways of dealing with situations that require change. However, this is dangerous since it inhibits the management of strategic change (Dent and Goldberg 1999, p. 36). For instance, report indicates that when managers are faced with the prob lem of declining performance in the engineering organizations, they have the habit of first seeking ways of improving the implementation of the existing strategy. This may involves actions such as tightening organizational controls. This implies that they only attempt to tighten up their accepted way of operation. However, in case this proves ineffective, then the managers change a strategy, though the change

Self reflectio on the module of acoounting information system Essay

Self reflectio on the module of acoounting information system - Essay Example Skills Learned From closer assessment of my personal and professional skills, it is apparent that the following skills were developed from the course: analytical skills, critical thinking, and intellectual growth from increased inputs on AIS concepts and theories, comprehension skills, the ability to interpret and apply required tasks and activities, and increased understanding of financial and accounting operations of an organization, among others. Further, skills to enable me to comply with the needed follow through in the module are likewise improved: prioritization of tasks or time management, problem-solving skills, introspection and even decision-making skills. The given lectures do not only provide the required explanation for terms being the subjects of discussion; but more importantly, learning goals are identified and illustrations are provided to guide and enhance learning skills. For instance, the topic on transactions processing gave students the lay-outs for sales or re venue cycle, as well as other cycles such as the purchasing, payroll and fixed asset cycle. These lay-outs assisted students in understanding the theories through visual representation of elements and interactions among stakeholders: managers, different departments, and external institutions (suppliers, government, and customers). I realized, however, that there were some topics which are generally difficult to understand given the nature and level of complicated concepts that were presented. For example, the topic on IS auditing was a fairly difficult topic that aimed to provide concepts in the most concise form. It, however, was successful in providing a general overview of the audit techniques and steps from a student’s perspective. Both critical and analytical skills are improved in this phase. I realized that for students who developed a deeper interest in the subject would need to make additional research or undertake additional courses on that topic alone. The topic on security and control is an interesting, relevant and contemporary issue that is highly important in terms of applicability to global organizational settings. Due to the technological developments accorded by the internet age, various organizations that opted to implement electronic applications (such as online banking, selling transactions through electronic business, and delivery of health care) need to be serious about awareness on this subject. My interpretative, analytic and application skills are enhanced as the subject of security breaches are closely studied. The topic on recovery procedures and control measures are most useful to inform me on the critical aspects of ensuring security in various phases of the operations in the organization, not only in information technology, but in other areas such as personnel, physical lay-out and structure, among others. It is my personal belief that other topics were fairly presented in a very generalized manner with the objective of pr oviding the necessary information that could be sourced from these: supply chain management, logistics and competitive advantage. These concepts should be discussed in more detail in other management courses like marketing. Another subject that is felt to have a wide range of complex topics and sub-topics is the area of systems development that presented other equally

Logistics and Supply Chain Management Operations' Process Control, Assignment

Logistics and Supply Chain Management Operations' Process Control, Optimization, and Sustainability in Seaport Container Termina - Assignment Example This is to say that the result of a productive port container terminal over a relatively longer period of time yields sustainability (Clark, Dollar and Micco, 2004). But for productivity to be optimized, a couple of operational management needs have to be fulfilled. These are logistics and supply chain management. The reason why these two phenomena should be incorporated and used hand-in-hand is that productivity and for that matter sustainability of container terminal is measured partly by the discharge and loading of container onto vessel as well as the reception and delivery operations, which involves transferring containers in and out of trucks (Kim and Park, 2003). These means of measurement directly require logistics to control the flow of container demands as well as supply chain management, which would determine the activities of individuals and organizations, which ensure the upstream and downstream flow of products and goods in vessel operations (De Monie, 1987). Problem St atement Vessel operators have recently adapted several methodologies and strategies in achieving sustainability in seaport container terminal including the use of concessions and the privisation of ports but not much of results seem to have been achieved even with these (Drewry Consultants Ltd. 2003). In the midst of the major failures being recorded therefore, there is the need for there to be a paradigm shift that looks at an unorthodox and radical strategy that can promise an unprecedented result. Interestingly, there have been a couple of research works already undertaken by a number of researchers who have looked at the impact of logistics and supply chain management towards process control, optimization and sustainability in seaport container terminal. For the present study, a number of those studies that made use of qualitative research approach shall be critically analysed. This implies that the proposed research shall be made to follow the qualitative research approach. By this study, some of the major forms of qualitative research approach shall be reviewed according to their weaknesses and strengths and an eventual decision on the best form or type of qualitative research approach for the proposed study shall be selected. Aims and Objectives Generally, the present study is structured around and aim, which is the overall goal that the researcher wants to achieve for the study. But the aim is wide and cannot be achieved without breaking it down into divisible parts. To this end, a number of specific objectives are set to help accomplish the research aim. The aim of the study is to determine which qualitative methods in the academic literature have been most effectively used in addressing the issue of how logistics and supply chain management aids in accelerating process control, optimization and sustainability in seaport container terminal. The specific objectives that need to be achieved independently to consolidate the achievement of the overall aim are given as follows. 1. To identify the two commonest forms of qualitative methods used in addressing the issue of logistics and supply chain management in seaport container terminal. 2. To evaluate the two types of approaches independently on the basis of The type of research questions addressed The value of the results presented The methods and instruments employed in achieving results 3. To evaluate the

Apple brand marketing campaigns positively influences Apples corporate Research Paper

Apple brand marketing campaigns positively influences Apples corporate identity in the consumes mind - Research Paper Example To build that kind of brand image, organizations will come up with brand marketing campaigns before and after the launch of the new products or services, which will entice and impress upon the eyes, ears and thereby the minds of the intended consumers. Then, when the launched products or services live up to the expectations of the campaigns and becomes successful, it will create an optimal impact for the organization, bringing in more consumers. Aaker (2004) discussed that a strong brand is a helpful and useful tool to establish an image and status for the organization, which in will influence the client to go the organization’s products, thereby building a solid and loyal customer franchise. Apple Inc. is one organization, which has been able to achieve this perfectly with its effective marketing campaigns. Srivastavaa and Thomas (2010) validates this fact by stating that Apple’s brand marketing campaigns has been one of its key components to its success, as it helped it to develop an positive brand image, which in turn played an important role in how consumers viewed it as a company, and importantly influenced them to buy its wide range of products. Apple Inc. started building a strong brand in the 1980s and 1990s, with campaigns like the Super Bowl commercial titled â€Å"1984†, the â€Å"Think Different campaign† in 1990s, etc. According to Kahney (2002), John Sculley, the former CEO at Apple Inc., increased Apple advertising budget from $15 million to $100 million in early 90s, and the current CEO, Steve Jobs spent close to $100 million in the marketing campaigns of iMac alone. With these spending and effective marketing campaigns, Apple Inc. was able to create a positive corporate identity, which greatly appealed to the client base, and importantly made them to support Apple Inc. even during its worst times. That is, when Apple’s products did not do well and when the company faced tough financial crisis, its brand image and the resultant consumers’ affinity towards it, only helped it to survive. As stated by marketer Marc Globe, â€Å"Apple is about imagination, design and innovation. It goes beyond commerce. This business should have been dead 10 years ago, but people said we've got to support it.† (qtd. in HWM, 2004). Chernatony & McDonald (2003) further adds up by stating, when a product or a service has a strong brand image, â€Å"customers perceive them as having value over and above that of the ‘equivalent’ commodity, or in excess of the sum of the price of the product’s or service’s constituent parts†. After a resurge due to its strong brand image, Apple Inc. was able to further elevate its corporate identity in the consumers’ mind with the launch of its successful flagship product, iPod in 2001. Its worldwide success gave Apple a strong corporate identity of a technological major, who can come up with products, which are innovative, adv anced and multi-purpose. That is, Apple’s products came to be recognized by consumers as high-end information and communications technology hardware, manufactured by a strong organization (Potter, 2006). In 2006, Apple Computers' survival and success hinged on two new initiatives - incorporation of Intel Processors to its PC's and its plans to succeed in digital

Entrepreneurship class; Business Plan Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Entrepreneurship class; Business Plan - Essay Example Management is also concerned to handle the financial resources in a proper and efficient way so that all the expenses of the business can be meet by the earned revenue and along with that company can earn sustainable percentage of profit in the business. Epiphany Junior is such kind of program which will provide innovative business ideas and try to bring out entrepreneur skill of individual person. Especially youth generation will be benefitted from this kind of program. This project is going to launch online course study which will help to develop the entrepreneurial behaviour of young generation by using chronological method. Creativeness and modernization are the main focus areas of this particular project. Again the project will help to develop individual quality, personality, knowledge, and attitude and management skill. The business owner of this project wants to expand this business outside Florida also. So he will target the other countries which are based in U.S. where such kind of online educational programs are in high demand. Basically the project is based on Florida. So the domestic market will be the main focus area to achieve maximum success and this success will help to achieve more market share in the other countrie s in U.S. Target customers of this project will not be only the young generation and children but also their parents who want to fulfil their children’s dream in a successful way. If the project can implement such kind of courses which can meet the demand and requirement of the targeted customers then only it will be successful to gain competitive advantages in the market. International online learning market is one of the largest and fastest growing markets in the world especially in U.S. It is forecasted that more significant growth can be observed in this particular market over the next three years. It is also estimated that the growth will increase more than 7 % over the next five years. This industry is in growth

Logistics and Supply Chain Management Operations' Process Control, Assignment

Logistics and Supply Chain Management Operations' Process Control, Optimization, and Sustainability in Seaport Container Termina - Assignment Example This is to say that the result of a productive port container terminal over a relatively longer period of time yields sustainability (Clark, Dollar and Micco, 2004). But for productivity to be optimized, a couple of operational management needs have to be fulfilled. These are logistics and supply chain management. The reason why these two phenomena should be incorporated and used hand-in-hand is that productivity and for that matter sustainability of container terminal is measured partly by the discharge and loading of container onto vessel as well as the reception and delivery operations, which involves transferring containers in and out of trucks (Kim and Park, 2003). These means of measurement directly require logistics to control the flow of container demands as well as supply chain management, which would determine the activities of individuals and organizations, which ensure the upstream and downstream flow of products and goods in vessel operations (De Monie, 1987). Problem St atement Vessel operators have recently adapted several methodologies and strategies in achieving sustainability in seaport container terminal including the use of concessions and the privisation of ports but not much of results seem to have been achieved even with these (Drewry Consultants Ltd. 2003). In the midst of the major failures being recorded therefore, there is the need for there to be a paradigm shift that looks at an unorthodox and radical strategy that can promise an unprecedented result. Interestingly, there have been a couple of research works already undertaken by a number of researchers who have looked at the impact of logistics and supply chain management towards process control, optimization and sustainability in seaport container terminal. For the present study, a number of those studies that made use of qualitative research approach shall be critically analysed. This implies that the proposed research shall be made to follow the qualitative research approach. By this study, some of the major forms of qualitative research approach shall be reviewed according to their weaknesses and strengths and an eventual decision on the best form or type of qualitative research approach for the proposed study shall be selected. Aims and Objectives Generally, the present study is structured around and aim, which is the overall goal that the researcher wants to achieve for the study. But the aim is wide and cannot be achieved without breaking it down into divisible parts. To this end, a number of specific objectives are set to help accomplish the research aim. The aim of the study is to determine which qualitative methods in the academic literature have been most effectively used in addressing the issue of how logistics and supply chain management aids in accelerating process control, optimization and sustainability in seaport container terminal. The specific objectives that need to be achieved independently to consolidate the achievement of the overall aim are given as follows. 1. To identify the two commonest forms of qualitative methods used in addressing the issue of logistics and supply chain management in seaport container terminal. 2. To evaluate the two types of approaches independently on the basis of The type of research questions addressed The value of the results presented The methods and instruments employed in achieving results 3. To evaluate the

Entrepreneurship class; Business Plan Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Entrepreneurship class; Business Plan - Essay Example Management is also concerned to handle the financial resources in a proper and efficient way so that all the expenses of the business can be meet by the earned revenue and along with that company can earn sustainable percentage of profit in the business. Epiphany Junior is such kind of program which will provide innovative business ideas and try to bring out entrepreneur skill of individual person. Especially youth generation will be benefitted from this kind of program. This project is going to launch online course study which will help to develop the entrepreneurial behaviour of young generation by using chronological method. Creativeness and modernization are the main focus areas of this particular project. Again the project will help to develop individual quality, personality, knowledge, and attitude and management skill. The business owner of this project wants to expand this business outside Florida also. So he will target the other countries which are based in U.S. where such kind of online educational programs are in high demand. Basically the project is based on Florida. So the domestic market will be the main focus area to achieve maximum success and this success will help to achieve more market share in the other countrie s in U.S. Target customers of this project will not be only the young generation and children but also their parents who want to fulfil their children’s dream in a successful way. If the project can implement such kind of courses which can meet the demand and requirement of the targeted customers then only it will be successful to gain competitive advantages in the market. International online learning market is one of the largest and fastest growing markets in the world especially in U.S. It is forecasted that more significant growth can be observed in this particular market over the next three years. It is also estimated that the growth will increase more than 7 % over the next five years. This industry is in growth

Coffee Stand Essay Example for Free

Coffee Stand Essay The proponents thought of a coffee business since Filipinos are known to be coffee – lovers. To satisfy consumer cravings, they came up with other blends of coffee, these blends will surely fulfill the cravings of the buyers. 1. 1 Project Proponents The proponents are composed of three (3) students from the College of Business taking up Hotel and Restaurant Management. The proponents have undergone series of brainstorming in order to come up this kind of business. Table 1: Proponents NAME| ADDRESS| NATIONALITY| OWNERSHIP| Paringit, Jerick U. | 78 Peras St. Bagong Barrio Caloocan City| Filipino| 33 1/3%| Lacabra, Elisha Grace V. | 43 Ero Bernardino Seminary St. Bagbag Novaliches| Filipino| 33 1/3%| Viloria, Vanessa DC. | 7 Pangako St. Bagong Barrio Caloocan City| Filipino| 33 /3%| 1. 2 Proposed Name of the Project The proponents named the business â€Å"Kofilicious† a combination of the words Coffee and delicious. It is a place where you can satisfy your coffee cravings at affordable prices. Kofilicious aims to serve blended coffees that are suited to the tastes of the customers. 1. 3 Type of Business Organization The proponents agreed to form a General Partnership with all three (3) partners. All of them will manage and participate in the business operation; each partner is subjected to contribute their share to come up with the required capital for the initial operation of the business. All of the proponents would be general partners with 33 1/3% shares each in capital requirement. 1. 4 Location of the business The Kofilicious will be located at the Walter Mart, North EDSA at the ground floor area. It is close to the LRT station, in front of Jackman. 1. 5 History of the business Initially, the proponents would like to start a Pizza Shop, a Restaurant or a Bar. However there is a difficulty in finding demand and supply of the main product. As time goes, the proponents have noticed that Filipinos are coffee lovers. So proponents were inspired by the idea of having a coffee shop. About the location, one of the proponent suggested to put up a business inside SM City San Lazaro at Felix Huertas St. Lacson Ave. Santa Cruz, Manila, but when they visited the said mall, the proponents found out that there are many direct and indirect competitors, so they searched for another location and found Walter Mart in North EDSA, Quezon City. It is a commercial place where it can achieve profitability through mall goers, students, employees. The most crucial factors that influenced the proponents in choosing what type of business project to establish and manage are (1) the need to obtain the necessary capital needed in establishing the business, (2) the marketability of the chosen project to ensure profit, and (3) the percentage and time needed to have return of investment in order to maintain and sustain the business project. Since the proponents are all students, capital is a limitation. The scale with which the business project will operate depends largely on the amount of money the proponents are able to commit to business. Nowadays, marketability of the product depends on the demand for the product. The project proponents chose food as their product because the marketability of beverages never decreases. As long as people drink, beverages will always be a top commodity. A survey conducted by the proponents showed that coffee is one of the most in-demand beverages. A little twist and little experiment, and the team came up with Kofilicious, coffee blended with other ingredients topped with whipped cream and wafer or wafer stick. CHAPTER 2 MANAGEMENT AND PERSONNEL The Kofilicous has a Stall Manager, Accountant, and two Store Personnel. Each personnel will work for eight hours a day, from Monday to Sunday. The term of payment will be given 15th and 30th of the month. The proponents choose personnel who have experienced and capability to work. 2. 1 Personnel The proponents formulate the policies, objectives and strategies to make the business productive and successful in its operation. The proponents will hire Stall Manager, an accountant, and store personnel. 2. 2 Personnel Requirements A. Stall Manager * Must be 21-35 years old * Must be a graduate of four year course which is related in Management, Hotel Restaurant Management or any other business course * Must be willing to work on shifting hours * Must have passion about coffee. B. Store Personnel * Must be 18 to 25 years old * At least 54 in height (male) or 52 (female) * With pleasing personality * Must have at least college level of education * Must be hardworking flexible * With skills in coffee mixing C. Accountant * Preferably a certified public accountant * With experience in financial statements preparation. 2. 2 Duties and Responsibilities A. Stall Manager * Oversees all the activities, * responsible for ensuring that the coffee shop maintains adequate supply levels, * maintains relationships with customers and staff, * identifies and estimates quantities of supplies to be ordered, * schedules staff work hours and activities, * organizes, plans, * bears the responsibility of ensuring that the coffee shop is adequately staffed, * makes sure employees are trained, * must handle all the advertising and promotion, * must manage the store and maintain the work flow and. * Must train the crews, and implements all the rules and policy. B. Store Personnel * are responsible for the preparation of coffee, * responsible for cleaning duties, * discover customer needs and appropriately suggest products with every customer to enhance service and meet sales goals, * Demonstrate the Just Say Yes behavior by taking care of customer needs, * Take responsibility to learn all aspects of the store personnel position, * are responsible for self-initiated learning, * enter purchases into cash register to calculate total purchase price, * accept cash payments, * count money, give change and issue receipt for funds received, * maintain sufficient amounts of change in cash drawer. * Keep register area neat and stocked with necessary supplies, * are responsible for inventory count, and * summarize daily sales and expense activities. C. Accountant * reports all financial matters to the owners, * prepares the business financial statements, * maintains of transaction records and the books of the firm, * manages the financial account of the business, * prepares the payroll. D. Proponents * oversee all work flow of the establishment, * Whenever the stall manager is not present, one of the proponents will be doing the after work inventory of sales. 2. 3 Organizational Chart Kofilicious adapted the line and staff organization that provides supplementing arms between the different levels of management. This type of organization is effective for good communication from top management to lower management. This form of organization is simple but helps avoid several organizational problems. FIGURE 1 Organizational chart STALL MANAGER Accountant STORE PERSONNEL 2. 3. 1 Proposed Rate of Salary Store personnel will be compensated on the number of hours and days of work they have ended. All employees will receive their salaries and wages every two (2) weeks. 2. 3. 2 Mode of Payment Payment of salaries and wages will be in the form of cash. Payment to be made twice in a month will be received by the employee on or before the 15th and 30th day of the month. 2. 4 Proposed Business Policies and Programs Be pleasant. Employees must wear a smile at all times. It should be part of daily operation. Be attentive. Employees must listen to every request made by the customers. Employees should exercise respect with customers at all times. Be patient. Employees must be patient in dealing with customers. They must exercise patience in order to please customers. Be accurate. Employees must give exact change at all times; make sure that accuracy is not only extended as to money matters, but in rendering service as well. The order is to be received correctly; the order is always to be repeated to the customer. Be loyal. Employees should give a loyal and honest service to the customer. Be observant. Employees must make it a habit to be on the lookout for little errors in service; and correct this in time. Be prompt. Employees must report for the duty promptly, and remain until relieved or until the manager has arranged for someone else to cover the work. Be clean. Employees must have a neat and clean appearance while on duty. Uniforms should be complete and in good order, properly buttoned and without spots or tear. They should observe proper hygiene daily. Management will not allow flashy jewelry, and excessive use of cosmetics. 2. 4. 1 Store Policies 1. The opening of the store is at 9:00 AM, exactly one hour before the actual opening of the mall, closing is at 10 in the evening. 2. All utensils used must be properly cleaned and sanitized after the operation, including the utility towels. 3. The crew should always wear their respective uniforms, caps, hairnet, and the nameplates provided by the company. 4. When the customer orders a product, the customer should be entertained and served in accordance with the span of time of making a blended coffee. 2. 4. 2 Uniforms All employees are required to wear their uniforms during working hours. The uniforms will be charged to the employee’s salary. The store uniform includes the following. a. Store shirt b. Pants c. Hairnet d. Cap and nameplate e. White socks and white clog shoes. 2. 4. 3 Attendance and Absences The company employs the strict observance on the attendance and absences of the employees or the following: 1. â€Å"No work, no pay policy† is strictly implemented. 2. Employees must work within the required hours and even during holidays, if necessary. 3. There will be a logbook and time card to have a record of the employees’ attendance. 4. Employees who intend to absent should inform the manager three hours prior to opening. 5. Employees who are absent for a day without any notice or permission to or from his/her manager are subject to: a. 1st offense- verbal warning b. 2nd offense- three-day suspension c. 3rd offense- six-day suspension d. 4th offense- discharge 6. Employees must be on time. A 15-minute grace period is allowed. Store hours will open at 10:00 a. m. as previously mentioned, but personnel are expected to be at the workplace one hour before opening time. 7. There will be a one-hour break per personnel, but this must be alternately done, that is, one personnel takes break, and the other one will be in-charge of the store, and vice versa 8. There is a one day-off, but it must be assigned and plotted by the manager. 2. 5 Proposed Management Style and Practices. The proponents will manage and supervise the operation of the business with the help of other people as their employees, and agreed to implement situational style of management in the supervision and operation in running the business. Considering the workers are one of the most valuable assets on our business, they must be treated fairly and with respect for them to work efficiently, effectively and productively. 2. 5. 1 Vision Kofilicious is committed to excellence. The partners are dedicated to offer not only the quantity but the quality of the proponents’ product, and the unparalleled service and love rendered to the people. 2. 5. 2 Mission To make Kofilicious a premium coffee house and to be competitive in coffee industry and its market. To be known through an excellent quality of coffee at affordable price with a strong reputation and consistent high growth in sales and profit. CHAPTER 3 MARKETING FEASIBILITY Coffee drinkers in the Philippines are among the most demanding ones. They favor well-brewed coffee drinks and demand great service. Kofilicous will strive to build a loyal customer base by offering a great tasting coffee located close to LRT Station. Our market research shows that 80% are the customer groups that are most likely to buy coffee. Since coffee consumption is universal, proximity to area of Walter Mart will provide access to the targeted customer. 3. 1 Market Description One of the major assumptions of this study is that the product can be patronized by all target market, since the proposed business is only small in scale. The target market population that the project covers is defined as the total estimate of people visiting the mall yearly. Since these people visit the mall and are free to go to any place at the mall, including the location of the project; all these people are potential customers. 3. 2 Demand. The computed demand was based from the survey the proponents conducted. The demand for the past five years and the projected five years are as follows: The survey showed that 80% of the respondents drink the traditional coffee. The respondents were also asked how frequent they drink coffee (given choice every day, once a week, twice a week). Respondents who chose â€Å"everyday† comprised 10% of the total subjects, â€Å"twice a week† comprised 30%, and â€Å"once a week† comprised 48%. The remaining 12% drink coffee for a frequency of â€Å"thrice a week to six times a week† – almost every day. This table illustrates the estimated demand for the product as defined by the percentages shown by the survey and the estimated population for the past five years Table 2 Frequency of Customer Demand for Possible Purchase Year| Total population| Interested to buy (80%) | Drinks coffee everyday(10%)| Once aWeek(48%)| Twice aWeek(30%)| Thrice to sixa week(12%)| 2011| 7,786| 6,229| 622| 2,990| 1,869| 747| The proponents conducted a survey at Walter Mart, North EDSA, Quezon City. This survey helped the proponents to know the number of respondents, target market and the total demand for coffee that the proponents need in the project. Based on 100 survey sheets that the proponents distributed, 80% of those people are willing to buy the product and 20% are those who are not willing to drink coffee. 3. 2. 1 Historical Demand Year| Total population| Interested to buy (80%)| Drinks coffee everyday(10%)| Once a week(48%)| Twice a week(30%)| Thrice a week(12%)| | | | | | | | 2007| 7,218| 5,774| 577| 2,772| 1,732| 692| 2008| 7,354| 5,883| 588| 2,824| 1,765| 705| 2009| 7,495| 5,996| 599| 2,878| 1,799| 719| 2010| 7,639| 6,111| 611| 2,933| 1,833| 733| 2011| 7,786| 6,229| 622| 2,990| 1,869| 747|. Year| Interested to buy(80%)| Total Demand(Annual)| 2007| 7,218| 607,004| 2008| 7,354| 618,441| 2009| 7,495| 630,299| 2010| 7,639| 642,409| 2011| 7,786| 654,771| Year| Total population| Interested to buy (80%)| Drinks coffee daily(10%)| Once a week(48%)| Twice a week(30%)| Thrice a week(12%)| Total Demand(Annual)| 2012| 7,935| 6,348| 634| 3,047| 1,904| 761| 667,301| 2013| 8,087| 6,470| 646| 3,105| 1,941| 776| 680,084| 2014| 8,242| 6,594| 659| 3,165| 1,978| 791| 693,119| 2015| 8,400| 6,720| 672| 3,226| 2,016| 806| 706,406| 2016| 8,561| 6,849| 684| 3,287| 2,055| 821| 719,945| 3. 2. 2 Projected Demand The Statistical straight line method was used to obtain the projected demand and based on the computed projection values, the proponents’ assessment is that there is a growing demand for coffee for the next five years. 3. 3 Supply Supply is the quality of goods that sellers are willing to sell out of given prices at a particular time and place. 3. 3. 1 Historical Supply The coffee may have a fixed price that could bring profile to the proponents or they have to sell it at whatever price it will fetch depending on the packaging. It is unlikely, however that they will continue to supply it if the price remain below the required amount to cover the cost and give the least profit. Competitors| Quantity sold per day | Zagu| 80| Coffee Break| 45| Tea Zone| 60| Competitors| Quantity sold per day in pcs. | Operating days| Total Supply| Zagu| 80| 360| 28,800| Coffee Break| 45| 360| 16,200| Tea Zone| 60| 360| 21,600| Annual Supply| | | 66,600| 3. 3. 2 Historical Supply Year| Competitor| Quantity sold/day in pcs| Operating days| Total Supply| 2007| -| -| 360| | 2008| -| -| 360| | 2009| 3| 179| 360| 193,320| 2010| 3| 182| 360| 196,560| 2011| 3| 185| 360| 199,800|. 3. 3. 3 Projected Supply Year| Competitor| Quantity sold/day in pieces| Operating days| Total Supply| 2012| 3| 188| 360| 203,040| 2013| 3| 191| 360| 206,280| 2014| 3| 194| 360| 209,520| 2015| 3| 197| 360| 212,760| 2016| 3| 200| 360| 216,000| 3. 4 Demand Supply Analysis 3. 4. 1 Historical Demand Supply Gap Year| Demand| Supply| DS Gap| % Unsatisfied| 2007| 607,004| -| 7,218| 100%| 2008| 618,441| -| 7,354| 100%| 2009| 630,299| 193,320| 436,979| 69%| 2010| 642,409| 196,560| 445,849| 69%| 2011| 654,771| 199,800| 454,971| 69%| Year| Demand| Supply| DS Gap| % Unsatisfied| 2012| 667,301| 203,040| 464,261| 69%|. 2013| 680,084| 206,280| 473,804| 69%| 2014| 693,119| 209,520| 483,599| 69%| 2015| 706,406| 212,760| 493,646| 69%| 2016| 719,945| 216,000| 503,945| 70%| 3. 4. 2 Projected Demand Supply Gap 3. 5 Proposed Marketing Practices Marketing practices include the practices that affect the relationship between the wholesaler, distributor, manufacturer and the retailer. 3. 6 Proposed Marketing Program and Strategy Kofilicious main purpose is to satisfy customers’ needs specifically on their taste preference, and to provide quality and friendly service. In order to achieve the business mission, the proponents constructed different strategies. Marketing mix elements are price, place, product and promotion. A. Price Price is the one that creates sales revenues. The pricing strategy of Kofilicious is set to determine if the market is capable of purchasing. The product having affordable prices is a must. A buffer of 10% and a mark up 40% were added to the Total Food Cost to get the selling price. B. Place Proponents proposed project will be located inside Walter Mart North EDSA, this site is chosen in order to capture the target market. Walter Mart is known for being one of the most visited mall in the country. C. Product. This refers to tangible service. The brand name has a connection to the product, and in sense, customers will hopefully be back for more. There will be a variety of products for the customers to choose from to satisfy their wants and needs. Below are the following nutrition facts of each coffee blend: Cafe Vanilla Frappuccino Calories 270| Calories from Fat 100| Total Fat 11g| | Saturated Fat 7g| | Calories 220| Calories from Fat 25| Total Fat 2. 5g| | Cholesterol 10mg| | Total Carbohydrate 48g| | Sugars 46g| Protein 3g| Vitamin A 2%| | Mocha Frappuccino Trans Fat 0g| Cholesterol 35mg| Sodium 150mg|. Total Carbohydrate 42g| Dietary Fiber 0g| Sugars 40g| Protein 4g| Vitamin A 8%Iron 4%Ricoa’s ChocolateCalories 290 Calories from fat 190 % Daily valueTotal Fat 13g 20%Saturated Fat 7g 35%Cholesterol 45mg 15%Sodium 115mg 5%Total Carbohydrates 39mg 13%Sugars 32gProtein 11gVitamin A 15%Calcium 35%Iron 15%Caffe LatteCalories 150 Calories from fat 50 % Daily valueTotal Fat 6g 9%Saturated Fat 3. 5g 18%Cholesterol 25mg 8%Sodium 115mg 5%Total Carbohydrates 14g 5%Sugars 13gProtein 10gVitamin A 10%Calcium 35%Caramel MacchiatoCalories 180 Calories from fat 45 % Daily valueTotal Fat 5g 8%Saturated Fat 3. 5g 18%Cholesterol 20mg 7%Sodium 100mg 4%Total Carbohydrates 25g 9%Sugars 23gProtein 8gVitamin A 10%Calcium 35%| D. Promotion| One of the Marketing Promotion tools used are tarpaulin, flyers and discount stubs. For the opening of the store there are 50 pcs. discount cards to be distributed, the stall will also distribute of 100 pcs. flyers and will post a tarpaulin besides the stall for the consumer to have the idea what products are being offered. (3. 7 Project Sales, see page 79) CHAPTER 4 Technical/Production Production is a major step in the series of economic process that brings goods and services to people. Producing a product that would cater to high level of customers satisfaction is one of the requirements for the proponents to cope with today’s successful companies. In this part, the proponents will discuss the production flow chart, project site, layouts and production schedule, facilities, floor plan, machine and equipment, utilities and raw materials. 4. 1 Product Description Kofilicious will serve different flavors. Every product is composed of different ingredients. The proponents decided to make a unique blend of coffee to satisfy the customers. These product items and ingredient are as follows: Vanilla Cappuccino. ? c Fresh Milk 2 tsp. Sugar 1 tsp. Vanilla Syrup 2 T Coffee 1 tsp. Cinnamon 2 T Whipped Cream ? c Ice Cubes Mocha Frappuccino ? cFresh Milk 2 TRegular Coffee 2 TWhipped Cream 2 oz. Milk Magic Chocolate 3 TSugar 1 cIce Cubes Ricoa’s Chocolate Drink ? cFresh Milk 120 gRicoa’s Cocoa 3 TSugar 1 tsp. Vanilla Extract 1 cIce Cubes 2 TWhipped Cream Cafe Latte 1 oz. Espresso, brewed 1 oz. Condensed Milk 1cIce Cubes 1 tsp. Cinnamon 2 TWhipped Cream Caramel Latte Macchiato ? cSteamed Milk 1 tsp. Vanilla Syrup 1 oz. Espresso, brewed 1 TCaramel Syrup 2 T Whipped Cream 1 cIce Cubes 4. 2 Production Process. Production process starts with cleaning of the section. Then begin for preparation of the ingredients, followed by the setting of equipment, measuring ingredients, inspection of quality and then storing the ingredients. Vanilla Cappuccino 1. In a blender, put the fresh milk, sugar, vanilla syrup, and coffee. 2. Blend it for a second just to mix all the ingredients. 3. Then add the ice cubes and blend. 4. Put in a cup, top with whipped cream, cinnamon and your choice of toppings (either wafer or wafer stick). Mocha Frappuccino 1. Put the fresh milk, regular coffee, milk magic chocolate and sugar in a blender. 2. Blend it for a second just to mix all the ingredients. 3. Then add the ice cubes then blend. 4. Put in a cup and top with whipped cream and choice of toppings (either wafer or wafer stick). Ricoa’s Chocolate Drink 1. In a blender, put the fresh milk, ricoa’s cocoa, sugar and vanilla extract. 2. Blend it for a second just to mix all the ingredients. 3. Then add the ice cubes and blend. 4. Put in a cup and top with whipped cream and choice of toppings (either wafer or wafer stick). Cafe Latte 1. Put the brewed espresso and condensed milk. 2. Blend it for a second just to mix all the ingredients. 3. Then add the ice cubes and blend. 4. Put in a cup and top with whipped cream, cinnamon and choice of toppings (either wafer or stick-o). Caramel Latte Macchiato 1. In a blender, put the steamed milk, vanilla syrup, brewed espresso, and caramel syrup. 2. Blend it for a second just to mix all the ingredients. 3. Then put the ice cubes and blend. 4. Put in a cup and top with whipped cream and choice of toppings (either wafer or wafer stick). 4. 3 Flow Diagram Operation A production process can be defined as any activity that increase the similarity between the pattern of demand-goods, the quantity form and the distribution of these goods available to the market place. LEGEND * Operation * Transportation 4. 3. 1 Production Process 1. Cleaning the area 2. Setting of the equipment 3. Preparing of the ingredients 4. Mixing the ingredients 5. Presentation 6. Serving 4. 3. 2 Service Flow Customer Kofilicious Personnel 4. 4 Materials Handling Design The materials requested for the daily operation of the business will be purchased by the proponents every week. One of the staff will inspect the process of production. The store will be using FIFO or First- In First Out as its inventory method. Materials are kept in safe and secured storage. 4. 5 Project Site The project is located inside Walter Mart, North EDSA, Quezon City. The project site has a total area of 3 meters by 2 meters. The site was chosen because the business is located near public and private offices and residences. 4. 6 Project Layout The food stand is about 8ft. in height, 4 ft. length and 3ft. in width. For the proponents the area is big enough to meet the production and selling operation of the business, the storage and other equipment could still be accommodated in the proposed area. 4. 7 Plant Size and Production Schedule The proponents chose the proposed business at the first level of Walter Mart, North EDSA Quezon City with a floor area of 3 meters by 2 meters. Table – Personnel Schedule: | Stall Manager| Store Personnel (1)| Store Personnel (2)| Monday| 10:00 a. m -7:00 p. m| 08:00 a. m -04:00 p. m| | Tuesday| 10:00 a. m -7:00 p. m| 10:00 a. m -7:00 p. m| OFF| Wednesday| OFF| 10:00 a. m -7:00 p. m| 10:00 a. m -7:00 p. m| Thursday| 10:00 a. m -7:00 p. m| OFF| 10:00 a. m -7:00 p. m| Friday| OFF| 10:00 a. m -7:00 p. m| 10:00 a. m -7:00 p. m| Saturday| 10:00 a. m -7:00 p. m| 10:00 a. m -7:00 p. m| 10:00 a. m -7:00 p.m| Sunday| 10:00 a. m -7:00 p. m| 10:00 a. m -7:00 p. m| 10:00 a. m -7:00 p. m| 4. 8. Floor Plan The stall has a total area of 3 by 2 meters which will have the operation area and the product display area. It has enough space for three personnel. The lease term is two months in advance and one month deposit. 4. 9 Utilities As for utilities, water supplied by Maynilad and electricity from Meralco will be included in the rental fee. The business will be charged Php 30,000. 00 every month with a 10% increase on rent per year. 4. 10 Coffee Materials Vanilla Cappuccino (8oz/240ml) Quantity| Ingredients| Wt. in g/ml| Product Cost| Unit Cost| Food Cost| ? c| Fresh Milk| 60 ml| P 62. 15/1000 ml| 0. 06| P 3. 60| 2 tsp. | Sugar| 10 g| P54. 00/1000 g| 0. 054| P 0. 54| 1 tsp. | Vanilla Syrup| 5 ml| P 10. 00/30 ml| 0. 33| P 1. 65| 1 tsp. | Coffee, strong| 5 g| P 66. 95/100 g| 0. 67| P 3. 35| 1 tsp. | Cinnamon| 5 g| P 38. 35/30 g| 1. 28| P 6. 40| 1 T| Whipped Cream| 15 ml| P 43. 20/250 ml| 0. 17| P 2. 55| ? c| Ice Cubes| 120 g| P 5. 00/1000g| 0. 005| 0. 60| Total Food Cost P 18. 69 +10% Buffer P 1. 87 Total cost P 20. 56 Mark-up 40% P 8. 22 Selling Price P 28. 78 or P 29. 00 Profit P 10. 00 Vanilla Cappuccino (12 oz./360ml). Quantity| Ingredients| Wt. in g/ml| Product Cost| Unit Cost| Food Cost| ? c| Fresh Milk| 120 ml| P 62. 15/ 1000ml| 0. 06| P 7. 20| 3 tsp. | Sugar| 15 g| P 54. 00/1000g| 0. 054| P 0. 81| 2 tsp. | Vanilla Syrup| 10 ml| P 10. 00/30 ml| 0. 33| P 3. 30| 2 tsp. | Coffee, strong| 10 g| P 66. 95/100 g| 0. 67| P 6. 70| 1 tsp. | Cinnamon| 5 g| P 38. 35/30 g| 1. 28| P 6. 40| 2 T| Whipped Cream| 30 ml| P 43. 20/250 ml| 0. 17| P 5. 10| ? c| Ice Cubes| 180 g| P 5. 00/1000 g| 0. 005| P 0. 90| Total Food Cost P 30. 41 +10% Buffer P 3. 04 Total cost P 33. 45 Mark-up 40% P 13. 38 Selling Price P 46. 83 or P 47. 00 Profit P 16. 00 Mocha Frappuccino (8 oz. /240 ml) Quantity| Ingredients| Wt. in g/ml| Product Cost| Unit cost| Food Cost| ? c| Fresh Milk| 60 ml| P 62. 15/1000 ml| 0. 06| P 3. 60| 1 tsp. | Coffee, strong| 5 g| P 66. 95/100 g| 0. 67| P 3. 35| 1 T| Whipped Cream| 15 ml| P 43. 20/250 ml| 0. 17| P 2. 55| 1 oz. | Milk Magic Chocolate| 30 ml| P62. 15/1000 ml| 0. 06| P 1. 80| 2 tsp. | Sugar| 10 g| P 54. 00/1000 g| 0. 054| P 0. 54| ? c| Ice Cubes| 120 g| P 5. 00/1000 | 0. 005| P 0. 60| Total Food Cost P 12. 44 +10% Buffer P 1. 24 Total cost P 13. 68 Mark-up 40% P 5. 47 Selling Price P 19. 15 or P 20. 00. Profit P 7. 00 Mocha Frappuccino (12 Oz. /360 ml) Quantity| Ingredients| Wt. in g/ml| Product cost| Unit cost| Food cost| ? c| Fresh Milk| 120 ml| P 62. 15/1000 ml| 0. 06| P 7. 20| 2 tsp. | Coffee, strong| 10 g| P 66. 95/100 g| 0. 67| P 6. 70| 2 T| Whipped Cream| 30 ml| P 43. 20/250 ml| 0. 17| P 5. 10| 2 oz. | Milk Magic Chocolate| 60 ml| P 62. 15/1000 ml| 0. 06| P 3. 60| 3 tsp. | Sugar| 15 g| P 54. 00/1000 g| 0. 054| P 0. 81| ? c| Ice Cubes| 180 g| P 5. 00/1000 g| 0. 005| P 0. 90| Total Food Cost P 24. 31 +10% Buffer P 2. 43 Total cost P 26. 74 Mark-up 40% P 10. 70 Selling Price P 37. 44 or P 38. 00 Profit P 13. 00 Ricoa’s Chocolate drink (8oz. /240 ml) Quantity| Ingredients| Wt. in g/ml| Product cost| Unit cost| Food cost| ? c| Fresh Milk| 60 ml| P 62. 15/1000 ml| 0. 06| P 3. 60| 60 g| Ricoa’s Cocoa| 60 g| P 52. 85/200 g| 0. 26| P 15. 60| 2 tsp. | Sugar| 10 g| P 54. 00/1000 g| 0. 054| P 0. 54| 1 tsp. | Vanilla Extract| 5 ml| P 10. 00/30 ml| 0. 33| P 1. 65| ? c| Ice Cubes| 120 g| P 5. 00/1000 g| 0. 005| P 0. 60| 1 T| Whipped Cream| 15 ml| P 43. 20/250 ml| 0. 17| P 2. 55| Total Food Cost P 24. 54 +10% Buffer P 2. 45 Total cost P 26. 99 Mark-up 40% P 10. 80 Selling Price P 37. 79 or P 38. 00. Profit P 13. 00 Ricoa’s Chocolate drink (12 oz. /360 ml) Quantity| Ingredients| Wt. in g/ml| Product cost| Unit cost| Food cost| ? c| Fresh Milk| 120 ml| P 62. 15/1000 ml| 0. 06| P 7. 20| 80 g| Ricoa’s Cocoa| 80 g| P 52. 85/200 g| 0. 26| P 20. 80| 3 tsp. | Sugar| 15 g| P 54. 00/1000 g| 0. 054| P 0. 81| 1 tsp. | Vanilla extract| 5 ml| P 10. 00/30 ml| 0. 33| P 1. 65| ? c| Ice cubes| 180 g| P 5. 00/1000 g| 0. 005| P 0. 90| 2 T| Whipped Cream| 30 ml| P 43. 20/250 ml| 0. 17| P 5. 10| Total Food Cost P 36. 46 +10% Buffer P 3. 65 Total cost P 40. 11 Mark-up 40% P 16. 04 Selling Price P 56. 15 or P 57. 00 Profit P 20. 00 Cafe Latte (8oz. /240 ml) Quantity| Ingredients| Wt. in g/ml| Product cost| Unit cost| Food cost| 10 ml| Espresso ,brewed| 10 ml| P 60. 00/60 ml| 1| P 10. 00| ? oz. | Condensed Milk| 15 ml| P 30. 75/300 ml| 0. 10| P 1. 50| ? c| Ice cubes| 120 g| P 5. 00/1000 g| 0. 005| P 0. 60| 1 tsp. | Cinnamon| 5 g| P 38. 35/30 g| 1. 28| P 6. 40| 1 T| Whipped cream| 15 ml| P 43. 20/250 ml| 0. 17| P 2. 55| Total Food Cost P 21. 05 +10% Buffer P 2. 11 Total cost P 23. 16 Mark-up 40% P 9. 26 Selling Price P 32. 42 or P 33. 00 Profit P 11. 00 Cafe Latte (12 oz. /360 ml) Quantity| Ingredients| Wt. in g/ml| ProductCost| Unit cost| Food cost| 15 ml| Espresso, brewed| 15 ml| P 60. 00/60 ml| 1| P 15. 00| 20 ml| Condensed milk| 20 ml| P 30. 75/300 ml| 0. 10| P 2. 00| ? c| Ice cubes| 180 g| P 5. 00/1000 g| 0. 005| P 0. 90| 1 tsp. | Cinnamon| 5 g| P 38. 35/30 g| 1. 28| P 6. 40| 2 T| Whipped Cream| 30 ml| P 43. 20/250 ml| 0. 17| P 5. 10| Total Food Cost P 29. 40 +10% Buffer P 2. 94 Total cost P 32. 34 Mark-up 40% P 12. 94 Selling Price P 45. 28 or P 46. 00 Profit P 16. 00 Caramel Latte Macchiato (8 OZ. /240 ml) Quantity| Ingredients| Wt. in g/ml| Product Cost| Unit Cost| Food Cost| ? c| Steamed Milk| 60 ml| P 61. 80/1000 ml| 0. 06| P 3. 60| 1 tsp. | Vanilla Syrup| 5 ml| P 10. 00/30 ml| 0. 33| P 1. 65| 10 ml| Espresso, brewed| 10 ml| P 60. 00/60 ml| 1| P 10| 2 tsp. | Caramel syrup| 10 ml| P 59. 15/120 ml| 0. 43| P 4. 30| 1 T| Whipped cream| 15 ml| P 43. 20/250 ml| 0. 17| P 2. 55| ? c| Ice cubes| 120 g| P 5. 00/1000 g| 0. 005| 0. 60| Total Food Cost P 26. 30 +10% Buffer P 2. 63 Total cost P 28. 93 Selling Price P 40. 50 or P 41. 00 Profit P 14. 00 Caramel Latte Macchiato (12 oz. / 360 ml) Quantity| Ingredients| Wt. in g/ml| Product Cost| Unit Cost| Food Cost| ? c| Steamed milk| 120 ml| P 61. 80/1000 ml| 0. 06| P 7. 20| 1 tsp. | Vanilla syrup| 5 ml| P 10. 00/30 ml| 0. 33| P 1. 65| 15 ml| Espresso, brewed| 15 ml| P 60. 00/60 ml| 1| P 15. 00| 3 tsp. | Caramel syrup| 15 ml| P 59. 15/120 ml| 0. 43| P 6. 45| 2 T| Whipped cream| 30 ml| P 43. 20/250 ml| 0. 17| P 5. 10| ? c| Ice Cubes| 180 g| P 5. 00/1000 g| 0. 005| P 0. 90| Total food Cost P 36. 30 +10% Buffer P 3. 63 Total cost P 39. 93 Mark-up 40% P 15. 97 Selling Price P 55. 90 or P 56. 00 Profit P 19. 00 Costs for packaging Materials| Product Price| Plastic Cups (8 oz. )| P 47. 50/50 pcs. | Plastic Cup (12 oz. )| P 51. 50/50 pcs. | Straw| P 75. 00/200 pcs. | Tissue| P 40. 00/bundle| TOTAL:| P 214. 00| 4. 11 Equipment, Kitchen Tools Packaging Requirements Equipment Item| Quantity| Unit Cost| Total Cost| Food Kiosk| 1| P 40,000| P 40,000| Blender| 2| P 1,200| P 2,400| Freezer| 1| P 9,847. 00| P 9,847. 00| Coffee Maker| 1| P 2,100| P2,100| | | Total:| P 54, 347. 00| Kitchen Tools Item| Quantity| Unit Cost| Total Cost| Measuring Cup| 2 set| 60| P 112. 00| Measuring Spoon| 2 set| 80| P 160. 00| Plastic Container| 6| | P150. 00| Kitchen Scissors| 1| P 30. 00| P 30. 00| | | Total:| P 452. 00| Packaging Requirement Item| Quantity| Amount| Total| Plastic cup| 50 pcs. | 0. 60| P 30. 00| Plastic straw| 50 pcs. | 0. 18| P 17. 50| Tissue| 1,000 pcs. | 0. 005| P 50. 00| | | Total:| P 97. 50| 4. 12 Man Power Requirements Manpower Requirement Position| No. | Work load| Basic Rate| Stall Manager| 1| Eight hours a day| Share to the capital| Accountant| 1| Twice a month| 1,500. 00/visit*2/month. Php 3,000. 00| Store Personnel| 2| Eight hours a day| 404/day*26days/month. P 10,504. 00| 4. 13 Wastes and Waste disposal Kofilicous will implement proper ways of disposing solid and liquid wastes. Solid wastes include used cups and plastic straws.