Citizenship in the nation Essay

1.Explain what citizenship in the nation means and what it takes to be a good citizen of this country. Discuss the rights, duties, and obligations of a responsible and active American citizen. 2.Do TWO of the following: a. Visit a place that is listed as a National Historic Landmark or that is on the National Register of Historic Places. Tell your counselor what you learned about the landmark or site and what you found interesting about it. b. Tour your state capitol building or the U.S. Capitol. Tell your counselor what you learned about the capitol, its function, and the history. c. Tour a federal facility. Explain to your counselor what you saw there and what you learned about its function in the local community and how it serves this nation. d. Choose a national monument that interests you. Using books, brochures, the Internet (with your parent’s permission), and other resources, find out more about the monument. Tell your counselor what you learned, and explain why the monument is important to this country’s citizens. 3.Watch the national evening news five days in a row OR read the front page of a major daily newspaper five days in a row. Discuss the national issues you learned about with your counselor. Choose one of the issues and explain how it affects you and your family. 4.Discuss each of the following documents with your counselor. Tell your counselor how you feel life in the United States might be different without each one. a. Declaration of Independence b. Preamble to the Constitution c. The Constitution d. Bill of Rights e. Amendments to the Constitution 5.List the six functions of government as noted in the preamble to the Constitution. Discuss with your counselor how these functions affect your family and local community. 6.With your counselor’s approval, choose a speech of national historical importance. Find out about the author, and tell your counselor about the person who gave the speech. Explain the importance of the speech at the time it was given, and tell how it applies to American citizens today. Choose a sentence or two from the speech that has significant meaning to you, and tell your counselor why. 7.Name the three branches of our federal government and explain to your counselor their functions. Explain how citizens are involved in each branch. For each branch of government, explain the importance of the system of checks and balances. 8.Name your two senators and the member of Congress from your congressional district. Write a letter about a national issue and send it to one of these elected  officials, sharing your view with him or her. Show your letter and any response you receive to your counselor.

Globalization and International Business Essay

Introduction 1. The meaning of globalization * Broadly: the widening set of interdependent relationships among people from different parts of a world that happens to be divided into nations. * Narrowly: the integration of world economies through the elimination of barriers to movements of goods, services, capital, technology, and people. A. How Does International Business Fit In? * International business consists of all commercial transactions between two or more countries. The goal of private business is to make profits; Governments may undertake them either for profit or for other reasons. a. The Study of International Business * Most managers need to approach their operating strategies from an international standpoint. * Managers in almost any industry need to consider (1) where to obtain the inputs they need of the required quality and at the best possible price and (2) where you can best sell the product or service you’ve put together from those inputs. * Studying IB is important because (1) most companies either are international or compete with international companies, (2) the best way of conducting business may differ by country, (3) an understanding helps you make better career decisions, and (4) an understanding helps you decide what governmental policies to support. b. Understanding the Environment/Operations Relationship The Forces Driving Globalization * Globalization (1) has been growing, (2) is less pervasive than generally thought, (3) has economic and non economic dimensions, and (4) is stimulated by several factors. * The A.T. Kearney / Foreign Policy Globalization Index: some countries are more globalized than others, and a given country may be highly globalized on one dimension and not another. This index ranks countries across four dimension; * Economic – international trade and investment * Technological – Internet connectivity * Personal contact- international travel and tourism, international telephone traffic, and personal transfers of funds abroad * Political – participation in international organizations and government monetary transfers A. Factors in Increased Globalization a. Increase in and Application of Technology * Population growth, Economic growth * Innovations in transportation mean that more countries can compete for sales to a given market. b. Liberalization of Cross-Border Trade and Resource Movements c. Development of Services That Support International Business * Converting one currency to another, insurance d. Growing Consumer Pressures e. Greater Global Competition * Born-global companies: start out with a global focus because of their founders’ international experience and because advances in communications give them a good idea of where global markets and supplies are. * Clustering or Agglomeration: the situation in which many new companies locate in areas with numerous competitors and suppliers; they quickly learn of foreign opportunities and gain easier access to the resources needed for international moves. f. Changing Political Situation * A major reason for growth in IB is the end of the schism between Communist countries and the rest of the world. g. Expanded Cross-National Cooperation * To gain reciprocal advantages * To attack problems jointly that one country acting alone cannot solve * The resources needed to solve the problem may be too great for one country to manage; sometimes no single country is willing to pay for a project that will also benefit another country. * One country’s policies may affect those of others. * To deal with areas of concern that lie outside the territory of any nation * Three global areas belong to no single country: the non-coastal areas of the oceans, outer space, and Antarctica. The Costs of Globalization * Critics of globalization claim (1) countries lose sovereignty, (2) the resultant growth hurts the environment, and (3) some people lose both relatively and absolutely. A. Threats to national sovereignty * Sovereignty: its freedom to â€Å"act locally† and without externally imposed restrictions. a. The Question of Local Objectives and Policies b. The Question of Small Economies’ Overdependence c. The Question of Cultural Homogeneity B. Economic Growth and Environmental Stress a. The Argument for Global Growth and Global cooperation C. Growing Income Inequality and Personal Stress a. Income Inequality(disparity) * Challenge: to maximize the gains from globalization while simultaneously minimizing the costs borne by the losers. b. Personal Stress * The growth of globalization goes hand in hand not only with increased insecurity about job and social status but also with costly social unrest. Why Companies Engage in International Business A. Expanding Sales B. Acquiring Resources (R&D, Design) * Foreign sources may give companies (1) lower costs, (2) new or better products, (3) additional operating knowledge. C. Reducing Risk (Sales, Price swings) * International operations may reduce operating risk by (1) smoothing sales and profits, (2) preventing competitors from gaining advantages. Modes of Operations in International Business A. Merchandise Exports and Imports * The export and import of goods are the major sources of international revenues and expenditures. B. Service Exports and Imports * For non-merchandise international earnings, we call it service exports & imports. a. Tourism and Transportation b. Service Performance * Turnkey operations: construction projects performed under contract and transferred to owners when they’re operational. * Management contracts: arrangements in which one company provides personnel to perform general or specialized management functions for another. c. Asset Use * Licensing agreements: when one company allows another to use its asset such as trademarks, patents, copyrights, or expertise under contracts known as licensing agreements, they receive earnings called royalties. * Franchising: a mode of business in which one party (the franchisor) allows another (the franchisee) to use a trademark as an essential asset of the franchisee’s business. Royalties also come from franchise contracts. C. Investments * Dividends and interest paid on foreign investments are also considered service exports and imports because they represent the use of assets (capital). * Foreign investment means ownership of foreign property in exchange for a financial return, such as interest and dividends, and it make take two forms: direct and portfolio. a. Direct Investment(foreign direct investment, FDI) * Investor takes a controlling interest in a foreign company * When two or more companies share ownership of an FDI, the operation is a joint venture. b. Portfolio Investment * Non-controlling financial interest in another entity. * It usually takes one of two forms: stock in a company or loans to a company in the form of bonds, bills, or notes purchased by the investor. D. Types of International Organizations * Collaborative arrangements: companies work together in joint ventures, licensing agreements, management contracts, minority ownership, and long-term contractual arrangements. * Strategic Alliance: is sometimes used to mean the same, but it usually refers either to an agreement that is of critical importance to one or more partners or to an agreement that does not involve joint ownership. a. Multinational Enterprise (MNE) * Any company with foreign direct investments. * Multinational corporation or multinational company (MNC), Transnational company (TNC) in US. Why International Business Differs from Domestic Business External environment that may affect international operations. A. Physical and Social Factors * Any of these factors may require a company to alter its operation abroad (compared to domestically) for the sake of efficiency. a. Geographic Influences * Geographic barriers often affect communications and distribution channels. * Population distribution and the impact of human activity on the environment may exert strong future influences on IB. b. Political Policies * A nation’s political policies influence how international business takes place within its borders. * Political disputes particularly military confrontations can disrupt trade and investment. c. Legal Policies * Legal law: includes both home- and host-country regulations on such matters as taxation, employment, and foreign-exchange transactions. * International law: in the form of legal agreements between countries, determines how earnings are taxed by all jurisdictions. It may also determine how companies can operate in certain places. d. Behavioral Factors * The related disciplines of anthropology, psychology, and sociology can help managers better understand different values, attitudes, and beliefs. In turn, such understanding can help mangers make operational decisions abroad. e. Economic Forces * Economics explains why countries exchange goods and services, why capital and people travel among countries in the course of business, and why one country’s currency has a certain value compared to another’s. B. The Competitive Environment a. Competitive Strategy for Products: Products compete by means of cost of differentiation strategies, the latter usually by: * Developing a favorable brand image, usually through advertising or from long-term consumer experience with the brand; or * Developing unique characteristics, such as through R&D efforts or different means of distribution. b. Company Resources and Experience * A company’s size and resources compared to those of its competitors. c. Competitors Faced in Each Market * Success in a market (whether domestic or foreign) often depends on whether the competition is also international or local.

How to Write a Good Essay Essay

A standard essay establishes a writer’s personal understanding, recommendation, analysis, and explanation of a specific topic. This piece of writing is generally used to teach, inform, orient, inspire, refute, warn, or even entertain the reader. As such, a good essay is well-researched, informative, interesting, well-written and easy to read. In order to write a good essay, writers can follow these guidelines: First, the chosen topic must be extensively researched from credible sources such as libraries, academic databases, factual websites, surveys, and interviews. Through adequate research, the writer gains sufficient knowledge in dissecting and discussing the topic at hand. In this stage, other areas and sub-topics are also discovered while listing notes, important keywords and ideas. Upon completion of the research, the writer must digest all useful information to plan and write the essay in a systematic manner that clearly explains its topic while distinguishing the introduction, body and conclusion of the essay. The introduction contains the thesis statement or central theme of the essay which gives a general idea on what the written work is all about. Read more:Â  How to write diagnostic essay samples. Therefore, the writer must strive to make it interesting enough for the reader to continue reading the whole essay. After the thesis statement, the body is written by using the researched notes and summaries taken during research. Initial questions previously laid down to determine the outline of the essay must now be answered. Ideally, this is done by composing several paragraphs where each paragraph systematically tackles questions addressing who, what, when, where, why and how. Supplementary examples geared towards reinforcing the thesis statement such as statistical data and other studies can also assist in further expressing the idea of the essay. However, the writer must keep in mind to cite sources and acknowledge them accordingly to avoid plagiarism. Ideas and words borrowed from others, even if paraphrased, should be cited using the required referencing style. Widely used examples of these styles include the American Psychological Association (APA) and Modern Language Association (MLA). Since there are many existing styles, the writer must pattern the citation and format of the written piece according to the required style. Meanwhile, the conclusion is written by summarizing the important points, reiterating the thesis, and providing a call to action sentence for the reader to act on. A good essay imparts a lasting impression while encouraging the reader to think. In finalizing the essay, the writer must thoroughly edit and proofread the entire work. Spelling, grammatical, and structural errors should be checked again and again. One good way to do a spell-check is to read the essay backwards and check each word carefully. Most of the time, a good essay written by a good writer undergoes continuous editing, rephrasing, and rewriting until a cleaner and more concise copy is produced. For those aspiring to constantly write good essays, reading is a definite must to expand one’s vocabulary and exposure to other styles of writing. Careful research, effective writing, and thorough editing are essential stages of writing a good essay. By following these guidelines, together with constant learning, practice and dedication, one can develop the skills on how to write a good essay.

An Analysis of Psychological Theories with Regard to Sexual Offenders Essay

An Analysis of Psychological Theories with Regard to Sexual Offenders - Essay Example Through the utilization of criminology the ability to illustrate the impact sexual offenders place in society has been predetermined as well, although the statistics change on a yearly basis. However the use of criminology and the many theories from the heart of this identity of the study of crime have developed ways in which to gauge the characteristics, background, and the environment in which the offender might have developed from and also how it might contribute to their sexual offenses against others (Lynch 2002). In this generation, researchers have found various treatment programs which often work well in the attempt to rehabilitate the offender and reintegrate them back into their former communities. However the research will show that this process can be extensive at times and there are many theorizations associated with this type of crime and its occurrence. There have been many theorizations utilized to try and depict the reasons why some people focus on criminal actions that are relative to rape and other forceful sexual encounters as well. Some of these theories are rational theory, female delinquent theory, Structural functionist theory, and many, many others. Some have offered better insight as to why these types of crimes occur and others have just lead to more questions as to the occurrence of this type of crime. With regard to rational theory, many criminal theorists state that sexual offenders are always given the choice whether to commit an act of rape of sexual violence or not, in other words they have the ability to rationalize this type of decision (Barbaree et al 1990). The idea of rational theory developed from the concept of economic theory in the mid 20th century with some of the early founding thinkers being Homans, Blau, and Coleman (Sobel 1994). As was stated, this theory views an act of crime in a way that deciphers the choices and decisions that criminal offenders make subsequent to the criminal act itself. It is seemingly closely connected to the 'Theory of Will' in that it gives the idea that any sexual offender has the mental capacity to make their own decisions between right and wrong and by choosing to bring harm to someone else they are detailing that they are fully aware of the consequences of their actions (Barbaree et al 1990). The main difference between the 'Theory of Free Will' and the theory of 'Rational Choice' is the fact that although the 'Free Will theory' shows that possible offenders do make their own choices in regards to committing a serious crime such as a sexual offence they do not rationalize their decisions and are very impulsive in their actions indicating that their reasoning might not be that of a wholly correct mentally functioning human being that has the ability to weigh right from wrong. Rational choice theory shows that there is no question in

Single Parenting Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2250 words

Single Parenting - Essay Example Parenthood has now taken a sharp turn and cases of children being brought up in single families have increased significantly. This has been as a result of divorce cases or children born out of wedlock. In other cases children are born by parents who are just cohabitating and are not legally married. Such children face a lot of challenges both at family level and society level. Such children are usually considered by societies to be illegitimate and thus highly condemnable. These children are therefore born with illegitimacy stigma and are therefore faced by several problems and negative altitudes. Thus, the school counselors should consider such children as a special group when dealing with them so that they can better address their problems (Katz, Dunham & Zimmerman, 1997). Research has revealed that there is a relationship between the changing family structures and children in respect to examination performance, the research shows that children who are brought up by both parents perform better are more resistant to peer pressure influence whereas students from single families... They also have a higher rate of dropping out of school as compared to those children brought up in a family structure consisting of both parents; they also have greater psychological and social problems. Variation of deviant behavior among the children from single families depends on what caused the single family structure. Studies have shown that those as a result of divorce are more likely to be more deviant as compared to the children raised in single families where one of the parents may have died or born of single mothers. The worst case of deviant behavior is when a child is raised by either a step mother or a step father who mistreat them in their early development stages. Such children develop very negative altitudes in life which often accompany them throughout their lives. While dealing with such children, the school teachers and counselors should consider their plight, so as to be able to assist them in an attempt to prevent them from engaging in deviant behavior (Shih, 20 08). Single parents are faced with numerous problems in raising their children, they sped a lot of energy and time in practicing parenting and yet their results usually have numerous shortcomings. With out help from the other spouse and society single parents try to raise their children effectively. However, monitoring discipline among their children is quite difficult since the burden is laid on one person who is also expected to provide for the entire family with all their needs. The children can therefore take advantage of their parents and engage in practices that are considered to be defiant. It might not be possible for the parent to monitor each child closely and therefore the children who have a propensity of misbehaving have an opportunity to do

Feminism in the 1900s Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Feminism in the 1900s - Research Paper Example Occurrence of the World Wars had a substantial impact on their revolution since they were influenced to take a stand. This paper will explore ideas from different sources such as â€Å"The Great Gatsby† by Fitzgerald, â€Å"A Raising in the Sun† by Hansberry and â€Å"Jasmine† by Mukherjee, thereby discussing feminism in 1900s. During 1990s, women had managed to make their way into manual labor force in America, and others acquired professional occupations. For instance, Hansberry in â€Å"A Raising in the Sun† explains that Beneatha was socially progressive, whereby she undertook a course in the medical field and this enabled her to provide for her family (Hansberry, 23). On the other hand, women commenced to engage in a struggle aimed at establishing equal pay after the First and Second World Wars. In fact, this was contrary to expectations that they would give up their jobs and resume to their initial role of being domestic caregivers. Furthermore, they engaged into strikes, and they had a conviction that their effort would leave an incessant mark on American society. Women’s freedom to change their lives was attained during the 1900s, whereby they were offered a chance to vote and right to acquire education. In fact, this revolution led to increased changes in the work force, while fashion in America underwent continual upheavals. There were changes in women’s dressing, whereby they used fashion as a way of expressing themselves. For instance, in â€Å"The Great Gatsby† by Fitzgerald, there is a character named Myrtle Wilson, who is highly concerned with appearance and fashion (Fitzgerald, 26). During 1900s, women managed to acquire professions that were reserved for men, though there were those who decided to be employed in keeping boarding houses. In this case, women were able to secure employment in medical field (like Beneatha in â€Å"A Raising in the Sun†), while others became lawyers. In fact, a ll this revolution is attributable to revolution that occurred in nineteenth century. During this period, acceptance towards women increased significantly; this acceptance was based on their suitability in various occupations. Nonetheless, other women decided to continue with their domestic roles, thereby being excluded from attaining factory occupations and other professions such as writing or teaching Women who were married at a young age were denied a chance to pursue a career in the medical field due to lack of accessibility to necessary education. For instance, Beneatha became a professional in the medical field since she was not married; in fact, she was still living with her parents (Hansberry, 20). Prior to 1990s, women were offered a chance to become nurses, while men were offered a chance to become doctors. In addition, before the revolution in 1900s, there was a prohibition, which barred women from joining American Medical Association; in fact, they would not attend some medical colleges such as Female Medical College of Pennsylvania, but in 1910, women could join medical schools (Women's International Centre, 1). According to Women's International Centre, only seventeen and five present of doctors in America were women prior to 1900s (1). In fact, by 1930, there were no substantial improvements in women situation concerning other

The MYKI electronic ticketing system Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

The MYKI electronic ticketing system - Essay Example The MYKI Electronic Ticketing System Although the MYKI electronic ticketing system has been praised a number of times, it has also received a considerable amount of criticisms. These have been generated by the range of failures and loopholes experienced during the project. This project replaced the Metcard ticketing system that was used in Metropolitan Melbourne among other ticketing systems used in busies within the same region. It is the most recent contactless ticketing system that makes use of a smartcard and which is used on public transport. This system started on the 29th of February 2009 and was valid for train service transport of the Metropolitan system (Mitchelle, 2009). From the project management viewpoint, some of the things that have been discovered to have gone wrong include the lack of ability by Lynne Kosky, who was the public transport manager to remember the number that was to be used by passengers to buy a ticket. As a result of this, a computer error occur and r esulted in over 1,600 people receiving new Myki cards onto which their names were printed wrongly or indicated as anonymous. With its production alongside other similar Metcard services, the government continued to make payment in order to ensure that commuters had sufficient opportunity to switch to the Myki electronic ticketing system. Most of the News agents also refused to sell the Myki cards since they earned far less commission from the government than that generated from the other Metcards.

Immigration Marriage Fraud in Canada Research Paper

Immigration Marriage Fraud in Canada - Research Paper Example Under the Canadian Immigration and Refugee Protection Act, one of the major objectives is to assist families to reunite. It therefore follows that, permanent residents and Canadian citizens may undertake to sponsor their partners or spouse to enable then obtain permanent residence in Canada (Ward and Belanger 2010). However, this Act has been continuously abused by some individuals who enter into marriage for convenience to defeat the Canadian immigration laws and gain permanent resident in Canada. Fraudulent marriage may take two forms: One, spouse may pretend to be in a relationship that is genuine so that it can be easy for the partner who is being sponsored to gain entry into Canada while on the other hand the sponsoring partner may be given some kind of benefits either financial or other kind in return for the sponsorship. The second kind of fraudulent marriage or marriage of convenience is where one of the spouses genuinely gets into a relationship not knowing that his or her partner only wants to use the relationship to get Canadian permanent resident status (Magana 2003). Under the two instances of marriage of convenience, the relationship is terminated soon after the person who is sponsored gain permanent resident status in Canada, thus marriage of convenience or fraudulent marriages weakens the Canadian immigration system not to mention the difficulty that such fraudulent marriage present especially to the immigrants who are genuine in their endeavors. A case in mind is the recent incident where a young Indian boy committed suicide after his wife married him in India, immigrated to Canada, and walked out on him once she became a Permanent Resident. Gurdip Singh Saroya an Indian man had married his wife Harmanjit Kaur Dhami who arrived in Canada on October 12 to reunite with her husband, on arrival; however, she would not allow her husband to touch her. She insisted that she wanted to go and stay in Toronto on her own. Unable to come into terms with this news Gurdip Singh Saroya her husband could not swallow this emotional fraud from his wife anymore, on one Monday morning, Gurdip Singh Saroya committed suicide by jumping off the Pattullo Bridge. The family of Gurdip Singh Saroya is convinced that the actions of Harmanjit Kaur Dhami the fraud wife as they call her was to blame for their sons’ death. They have a strong conviction that Harmanjit Kaur Dhami persistence to move to Toronto to stay alone severely affected Gurdip Si ngh Saroya as he realized that he was in a marriage that was strange and unworkable. The family of Gurdip Singh Saroya are also convinced that Harmanjit Kaur Dhami only used her marriage to their son for convenience purposes to gain permanent resident to Canada. In Canada, an individual commits a marriage fraud when he or she enters into marriage for purposes of getting the requisites to attain permanent resident in Canada. For this reason, when a foreign spouse is helped to gain entry into the country and within a short time walks out of the marriage, these spouses automatically subscribes to their community support system which constitutes a marriage fraud. Basically, the institution of marriage is a union that is sacred, and in instances where one of the party to the marriage has genuine feelings and intentions while the other party mostly the party who is sponsored to get entry into Canada, has a deceptive intention of gaining permanent entry into the country, the very core valu es of marriage are defeated and as such that marriage never existed in the first place. The veil behind immigrants’ marriage must therefore be lifted to establish the true intentions of the parties intending

No Smoking on School Grounds Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

No Smoking on School Grounds - Essay Example Although some people are against the implementation, total â€Å"restriction on smoking on school groups† will be very effective in reducing the unpleasant effects of smoking. Why there should be no smoking on school grounds If a school allows smoking by students, teachers, or workers, people should advocate for change. There should be tough restrictions on smoking in schools and teachers have to smoke elsewhere and not schools. In many states, it is unlawful for children to buy cigarettes. No one should buy cigarettes for students or ask students to buy for them. If learners are allowed to smoke in schools, the chance of them start using other drugs is high. Cigarette smoking on school ground by teachers or other students can make other students start smoking. Once a student has started smoking, the bond between the student and other smokers affects his decision-making on whether to stop or continue doing it. The outcomes of many researches show that many adults who are smoki ng started the smoking habit in schools. Other students and school casual workers are the ones who influenced most of them to smoke. Smoking cigarette can make students start misusing other substances (American Cancer Society). Since schools have high populations, smoking on school ground leads to poor health for the ones smoking and the people around them. The number of first time smokers is augmenting daily, and many of them become habitual smokers. Some of them die because of diseases that are related to the behavior. They are risking their lives and the lives of those who are around them (American Cancer Society). Smoking on school grounds leads to poor performances in class. This is because teachers who smoke have been observed to use part of their times to smoke instead of teaching. The teachers also rush the lessons so that they can get time to smoke. Therefore, they spend a little time with students and fail to teach well. Additionally allowing smoking in schools can make st udents to spend more time in smoking instead of studying. For example, during break times they rush out to smoke instead of doing other helpful activities. Smoking also reduces the students’ concentration in class. Instead of listening to the teachers in class, the students long for break times so that they go out to smoke. For this reasons, â€Å"restriction on smoking on school grounds† should be helpful (Blatt 104). Another reason why there should be the restriction of smoking, in schools, is the increase in harmful behaviors in schools. Researches have proved that most students who smoke become rebellious in schools and some of these learners end up being expelled. Some students get suspension from schools due to misbehaving making them miss classes; thus, reducing their class performances. Students who smoke cigarettes mostly engage into fights and some of them even carry other dangerous drugs in schools risking other students’ lives. Cigarette smoking stud ents also suffer from psychological illnesses and this contributes to poor performances in schools (American Cancer Society). Refutation Some researchers argue that the implementation of â€Å"no smoking on school ground† will not be effective because it will be hard to monitor everyone in the institutions (Jacobson 144). I disagree with them because if schools become increasingly aggressive in enforcing no-smoking rules, people will stop smoking on the school grounds. To make

Climate Change in the Context of Kuehne + Nagel Inc Coursework

Climate Change in the Context of Kuehne + Nagel Inc - Coursework Example From this paper it is clear that the trends in climatic changes are worsening with the increase in the occurrence of the unpredictable extreme events. Hence, the activities of Kuehne + Nagel Inc. are extremely affected by the negative change. Alongside, the adverse impacts trails of opportunities exist to market the firm due to its stability, and this increases the client bases. With the practical implementation of the recommendations, Kuehne + Nagel Inc. will overcome the inevitable catastrophes presented by the weather condition.   Ã‚  This essay discusses that  the current climate trends depict a long-term increasing inclination of the average temperature of the air. Precipitation is also in a dynamic pattern. However, it varies in a complicated manner. Climatologists predict that the trends will significantly pick up the pace in the future. A severely damaging concern caused by an elevation of temperature rates is the continually rising levels of the sea. From the year 1860, the level has increased by 0.2 meters as affirmed by satellite information. Scientists project that the temperature at the end of the 21st-century ranges between 1.0 to 3.7 degrees Celsius.  Additionally, the alteration in the conditions of climate may result in changes in duration, intensity, frequency, timing and spatial coverage of climate and weather extremes. These in turn can modify future climatic situations.

Document Based Quesiton (AP World History) Essay

Document Based Quesiton (AP World History) - Essay Example In 2002, then US Treasury Secretary Paul O’Neill claims that the World Bank gave Africa $300 million in loans (as reported by BBC news, 28 May 2002). This staggering amount is just part of the reason why the countries of South Africa have accumulated so much debt. One should simply realize that the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF), while being international financial institutions, are actually largely controlled by the government of rich countries, like US and Britain (Africa Action website, 2005). While these creditors do provide aid and new loans to Africa, the hapless people of the region are forced to pay more money to them in a vicious cycle of debt. Thus, these creditors are able to wield significant influences over Africa’s economy and the region’s future. It is thus no great wonder why, despite these huge foreign debt, Africa barely has enough to properly supply its people with basic commodities such as food and clean water (O’Neill, 2002). To add insult to obvious injury, Africa is simply up to its neck in epidemic diseases, with AIDS being a major health concern of many countries in the continent. Information from UNAIDS (2000) signify that a great majority of the country is infected, thus resulting to more than 11 million children orphaned by AIDS and an equally significant amount being infected by the disease (UN, 2004). Perhaps the saddest point of this issue is the fact that amidst all these problems, civil unrest still pervade the region (Copson, Africa’s Wars and Prospects for Peace). While children are being orphaned by AIDS, parents lose their children to the never ending wars in the continent, as children are being recruited to serve either as soldiers or perform noncombatant roles both for the government and for the rebels (Amnesty International, 2005). The good thing that may be coming out of all these is that the rest of the world does not just sit back and watch Africa suffer

How Do Floods Occur Essay Example for Free

How Do Floods Occur Essay When floods develop, the places in which they do so are called water sheds. These water sheds can be either man made or they can be natural. A watershed is defined as an area that is between a land mass and a water source. A watershed can be a lake or a river. If this particular watershed is working appropriately, then the water should be drained into the ground naturally. However, if there is too much snowfall or rainfall, then the watershed cannot hold so much water and this results in overflowing of the water. However, when we are talking about the water sheds it is just not a small quantity of water but we are talking about huge volumes. So, a lot of water can actually drown an entire city. A combination of rains and excessive water can form the perfect recipe for a flood. When it rains the water levels constantly rise up and the rivers or lakes that act as water sheds cannot hold anymore water and so they also start overflowing and this results in a major flood. Even humans are some of the contributing factors to a flood actually. With so much development in the form of roads, infrastructure and buildings, there is very left ground left. So, there is no mud left for absorbing the water that comes in the form of rainfalls. If there are drains available, then the waters naturally flow into the drains and then led to the sea. However, when the drains are full due to continuous rainfall, then the cities get flooded.

Strategic ability of Hong Leong Bank

Strategic ability of Hong Leong Bank Hong Leong Bank Berhad was found by Ji Chiew. The bank starts operations in 1905 in Kuching, Sarawak. In 1 January 1982, the Head Office relocated from Kuching to Kuala Lumpur. The consolidation of banking institution to meet the requirement of Bank Negara Malaysia marks another milestone for Hong Leong Bank Berhad. Hong Leong Bank Berhad was listed on Kuala Lumpur Stock Exchange on 17 October 1994. The market capitalization as of recent days is RM 470 million, according to bank website. Hong Leong Bank has diversified the businesses into financial services, manufacturing, and property and infrastructure development. The services available are personal financial services such as credit cards, investment, loan, deposits, insurance, priority banking, personal banking and Hong Leong Club Rewards for customer loyalty (Hong Leong Bank, 2009). Industry Analysis 2.1 Why Porters 5 models Porters model determines the competitiveness of an organization using the five different forces and shows how the forces are related. To develop business strategies effectively, organizations must understand and act in response to those forces. (Porter, 1985) (Fornell and Wernerfelt, 1987) Rivalry Among Existing Competitors There are 37 banks, which are recognized and licensed to operate in Malaysia and more financial institution are opening soon. The trend of increment of the number of banks within the industry is fast and there are great challenges for HLB to create and maintain a good market share. Other banks are seems to be more aggressive to get and retain customers. This force is not in favor of Hong Leong Bank. (BNM, 2009) Threat of Substitute Products and Services Even though there are many financial institutions available, some unique facilities can only be obtained from the bank only. American Express facilities, co-branded products (e.g. MTV), higher interest rate, club rewards, junior/senior savings, overdraft are the few products which only available to this bank. Thus this force is in favor to the bank. (Hong Leong Bank, 2009) (BNM, 2009) Bargaining Power of Buyers Having the whole range of financial players apart from the retail banks, it is evident that customers can move within the 40 operators and can also decide to switch to the other non-banking institutions. Their choice can even extend to the insurance companies, depending on the nature of the product. For instance if a customer is looking for a small amount of loan, he/she can even get the said product from organizations like AEON, etc. The close location of various banks is also giving customer a very high bargaining power too. For instance in a location of Puchong Jaya, along the street of Jalan Kenari it is easy to find at least 9 banks within 100 meters Maybank, Public Bank, Eon Bank, CIMB Bank, HSBC, Alliance Bank, Bank Simpanan Nasional, UOB. With this concentration the bargaining of customers always goes high before customers start looking on a differentiated service. For the said bank, this is absolutely a negative favor since the potential customers can shift easily to differ ent point. (BNM, 2009) Bargaining Power of Suppliers The core business of the Hong Leong Bank is product and services which mainly focuses on safety of monetary management. The suppliers provide some tangibles like checkbooks, lockers, private banking, priority banking. The impact of these in HLB is not much significant since they are not really like the raw material. (Hong Leong Bank, 2009) Threat of New Entrants The Bank Negara Malaysia has set a minimum capital requirement of RM5 billion for a bank to be registered. The conditions set for registering a bank are not difficult to obtain, hence entry barriers become low. Thus more foreign owned financial firms are keen to open their business in Malaysia. Certainly these institutions will pose threat on existing banking business as theyll have unique products and services. This force is not in favor of Hong Leong Bank. . (Hong Leong Bank, 2009) From the above analysis of HLB 5 forces analysis, the diagram below will provide a summary of the banks overall industry analysis. Threat of New Entrants (-) Threat of Substitute Products and Services (+) Bargaining Power of Buyers (-) Rivalry among existing competitors (-) Bargaining Power of Buyers (+) 2.2 Limitations of the Porters Model Porters 5 force analysis talks about the external forces applicable to the outside of business. Todays business is much more vast and robust requiring dynamic approaches which should be an integration of different approaches rather than depends on a single analysis. Internal factor analysis requires much analysis as external. Designing, visioning and learning approaches should be considered when an industry analysis is done. Proters 5 forces are lack of these factors. (Porter, 1985) (Gronroos, 1997) Strategic Capability Analysis 3.1 Stakeholders Stakeholder Analysis identifies important groups of people or individuals that can have an influence on the Project. These Stakeholders can have their own objectives and views, which may differ and conflict with other Stakeholders. A Stakeholder Analysis is required to identify all the parties who are directly or indirectly affected by the enterprises operations. This includes not only the traditional shareholders, but also some new groups that the insights of sustainable development tell us must be consulted in decisions that affect them. (Roberts, Varki, and Brodie, 2003) (Fombrun and Shanley, 1990) In an organization, internal stakeholder is the employees or people who work inside the organization. External stakeholders exist outside the organization but have a direct interest in what it does (e.g. shareholders, governments, customers) etc. (Roberts, Varki, and Brodie, 2003) 3.2 SWOT Analysis 3.2.1 Why SWOT Analysis? SWOT analysis is a tool for auditing an organization and its environment. It is the first stage of planning and helps marketers to focus on key issues. SWOT stands for strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. Strengths and weaknesses are internal factors. Opportunities and threats are external factors. (Spreng and Chiou, 2002) In SWOT, strengths and weaknesses are internal factors and opportunities and threats are external factors. 3.2.2 Hong Leong Bank SWOT Analysis Strength Hong Leong Bank Berhad (HLB) principal activity is providing consumer-banking services including credit cards, investment, mortgage, deposits, insurance and priority banking. Other activities include business banking, trade financing, working capital facilities, treasury, foreign exchange, money market operations, capital market securities trading, investment, and takaful business. It has been recognized as one of the most profitable bank in Malaysia. (Hong Leong Bank, 2009) It has 186 branches, 17 business centers with talented and motivated employees throughout Malaysia making it one of the most widened banking sectors in Malaysia. Their first award year 2004, an acknowledgement for their active participation in spurring the growth of the SMEs in the country. This award certainly spur Hong Leongs strength to bring more value added financial services to customers and the SMI community and to help them face the extremely challenging and competitive business environment both locally and globally. Launched in October 2005; the Hong Leong Mobile Credit Card is the first of its kind, allowing customers who are provided with a six-digit personal identification number (PIN) to pay for goods and services using mobile phones via short messaging service (SMS). This offering is the result of Hong Leong Bank tie-up with technology provider Mobile Money International Sdn. Bhd. This unique method of payment, known as Mobile Money is speedy, convenient and cost effective. Using only the mobile phone for approval of transactions and payments, there is no longer a need for the physical plastic card, merchant terminals or Internet terminals. Payment requests are delivered via SMS. There is no need for card members to be present at the point of sales or at the merchant outlets. Payments can therefore be made from wherever card members are, at whichever place where there are mobile phone signals. (Hong Leong Bank, 2009) In 2007, Hong Leong Bank bagged the Asian Bankers Best e-Banking Project 2007 with its Internet banking offering, Hong Leong Online. The award recognizes the best emerging technology practices and benchmarks in Asia Pacific banks. Apart from the Asian Banker award, Hong Leong has also been ranked as the third most popular Malaysian online banking site. Online banking transactions helped the bank save about RM24mil from March to October 2007 as each online transaction cost about 20% compared with about RM3.50 for every over-the-counter transaction. Weakness In line with its strong customer service culture, the HLB continues to maintain its superior delivery standards which have been behind against international ISO standards. HLB is yet attained bank-wide ISO 9001:2000 certifications for customer service at the front office of its branches and bank-wide loan delivery service. This is a major drawback for the HLB to have a better customer base. (Hong Leong Bank, 2009) As to compete in the industry of banking, interest rate is a major challenge as customer will choose for a higher interest rate for savings account and for the lowest interest rate for the loans that the customers are seeking for their financial assistances and better service for the customer. Hong Leong Bank needs to change according to the environment as to compete and remain as the market leader. (Hong Leong Bank, 2009) As Hong Leong Bank has moved ahead to the Electronic banking or transaction there is greater risk or security threats circulated to the users of online banking or transaction. There are non technical threats such as phising whereby it is the act of tricking someone into giving them confidential information or tricking them into doing something that they normally wouldnt do. The common applications of this approach is to send fake emails (email spoofing) to a victim purporting to come from a legitimate source and requesting information (such as the bank account number and the password) or directing the victim to a fake internet website where this information can be captured. Opportunities The bank may recruit young and talented staffs and provide them proper training to create a talent base as well as provide job to those who are in need. This may also reduces the unemployment rates in Malaysia. This talent base is able to adopt with internal formation and usually stay with the bank until the end. (Hong Leong Bank, 2009) As the banking industry grows and provides opportunities for the local customers indirectly it also given an opportunity to the foreigners who stays in Malaysia. They tend to use banking services more frequently to have different types of account. This additional customer base will bring more money inside the bank and of course banks will gain profit from various types of transactions. (Hong Leong Bank, 2009) Bringing the bank closer to the consumer could be the vital opportunity. Providing a payment gateway where ATM card could be used as like a credit card for everyday usages. Since these customers will use won money, bank may encourage them to save more to get more benefits. Establishing more ATM and branches and electronic features (e.g Western Union money transfer) will definitely bring more customers in. (Hong Leong Bank, 2009) Threats Ease of distributing credit card could be a disturbing role the bank is playing. While credit card repayments are depends fully on customer payment, if it is not paid, bank has to go long way. (Hong Leong Bank, 2009) The bank is not really in forefront position to introduce new products and service as market demand changes. It if often seen that the bank introduces the products in different name when the service is already available in the market by other bank. (Hong Leong Bank, 2009) 3.2.3 Limitations of SWOT Analysis SWOT analysis usually very subjective. It simply looks at the negative factors first in order to turn them into positive factors. So it is advisable to use SWOT as guide and not as prescription. (Spreng and Chiou, 2002) Strategic Choices 4.1 Generic Strategy 4.1.1 Why Porters Generic Strategy Generic strategies are widely used today even though it was invented in 1980s. Three options are available for organizations to adopt to achieve sustainability which are cost leadership, differentiation and focus. Each of the three options are considered in two aspects of the competitive environment: (i) Competitive advantage talks about the prices (high or low) of the products, (ii) Competitive scope talks about the market size (narrow or broad). (Porter, 1985) (Chen, 1999) (Sanzo et al, 2003) Overall Cost Leadership The low cost products are the product leader in the market. It may also included the time required to built and delivery the products to customers. As it is mentioned earlier, using online banking, it would help the bank as well as customers to save more. Developing and maintaining online business is not low-priced itself. Yet it could provide vital thumbs-up to banks generic strategy. If more customers opt for online transactions, bank wouldnt have to spent time on serving customer physically thus itll requires less resources (e.g. less branch, less employees). These less resources will push ahead the bank with extra finance to improve other services. (Harris and Goode, 2004) (Sanzo et al, 2003) Differentiation Differentiated goods and services are designed to satisfy the customers with the lowest price/cost available for similar kind of products. HLB Flexi FD is a fixed deposit product which gives higher interest rate to the customer. Thus the bank will be in risk of loosing money. So it has to bring and retain much customer to cover the loss. The loss must be cover to be competitive. Since banking industry changes rapidly, HLB will have to customize the products and services over times to hold ensure customer satisfaction. (Dannenberg and Kellner, 1998) (Jones, Mothersbaugh, and Beatty, 2000) Focus In focus an organization can afford neither a wide scope cost leadership nor does a wide scope differentiation strategy, Here an organization focus effort and resources on a narrow segment of a market. Competitive advantage is generated specifically for the niche. A company has two options to choose: use either a cost focus or a differentiation focus. Taken example of HLB structured investments. Invested amounts are 3rd-party transactions and bank itself doesnt provide any guarantee of returns of money to the customer. In this segment, HLB is a low profile character. Even though bank is charging some commission on the investments, customers who are willing to invest are to do so at own risk. (Jarvelin and Lehtinen, 1996) (Evans and Beltramini, 1987) 4.2 Strategic Directions 4.2.1 Why Ansoff Matrix The Ansoff Growth matrix is a strategic direction tool that helps businesses decides their strategies for growth. Ansoffs product/market growth matrix discuss about the strategies on which the business deliver new or current products in new or current markets. Overall output of Ansoff product/market matrix is sets of strategies that set the direction for the business growth. (Auh et al, 2007) (Sanzo et al, 2003) These are described below: Market penetration Market penetration is a general name of selling current products into current markets. The bank continuously introduces loan and credit products to customers to leap ahead. Since the banks most incomes come from loan and credit facility, reshape of current products will ensure market growth and increase of usages by existing customers. Market penetration for HLB will be focused on the central markets that it is very familiar with, competitors are known, customer needs are defined and returns are potential. (Gustafsson, Johnson, and Roos, 2005) (Agrawal, 2001) http://strategyiseverywhere.files.wordpress.com/2007/12/ansoff_matrix.png Market development Market development tells about the distribution of current products in new market. With its existing banking facilities, the bank introduces private banking for the customers who loves personal banking. For everyday needs of banking, investment, loan, protection a dedicated personal banker is always there to serve the individual customer to fill their needs. These personal banking is nothing different than existing policies; focus goes to its loyal customers which puts big amount inside the bank. (Dannenberg and Kellner, 1998) (Filotto, Tanzi, and Saita, 1997) Product development Product development is the name given to a growth strategy where a business aims to introduce new products into existing markets. Saving multiplier plans is recently introduced by the bank. Hong Leong Savings Multiplier Plan is a unique investment tool that utilizes the powerful concept of Dollar-Cost-Averaging and offers a customized solution to tackle the distinct financial challenges throughout different life stages be it to secure a comfortable retirement or to ensure a steady flow of pension-like funds or for putting aside adequate funds even for childrens education. Islamic banking is another example of product development. (Metawa and Almossawi, 1998) (Haron, Ahmad and Planisek, 1994). Diversification Diversification is the growth strategy where new products are to be delivered in new market. This strategy is more risky for business growth as often business takes longer time to survive in a new market. HLB recently spread their business in Vietnam. Since Vietnamese culture differs from Malaysia, the bank has to adopt the culture as well as compete with well established Vietnamese banks. (Shankar, Smith, and Rangaswamy, 2003) (Evans and Beltramini, 1987) 4.3 Method for Pursuing Strategic Direction Forward Looking Policy Monetary policy management needs a forward-looking policy due to the time gap between policy actions and their intended effects on output and inflation. HLB built a macro model which would determine the impact of policy actions. Understanding the microeconomic factors are important too determine the inter-linkage of monetary policy mechanism. (Fornell and Wernerfelt, 1987) Deepening of Financial Markets New financial products are traded in the Money/Bonds market by the introduction of Hong Leong Banks Debt Capital Markets Structured Finance (DCM/Structured Finance) unit within Wholesale Banking provides innovative tailor-made solutions to financial institutions, corporate, agencies and high net-worth individuals through comprehensive offerings in the debt capital markets. (Dannenberg and Kellner, 1998) Strong Foreign Currency Reserve Foreign exchange reserves form part of the national assets and these needs to be deployed rationally keeping in mind the principles of safety, liquidity, and return. The reserves, which are currently deployed by the HLBs in-house reserve management treasury dealers, are in short-term high quality bank deposits. (Naser, Jamal, and Al-Khatib, 1999) Reliable and Secured Payment Systems To reduce the settlement time significantly and increase cost effectiveness the bank plans to establish an electronic clearinghouse to do almost every transactions online with tighten security and handy usability. Opening an account, apply for credit cards are already in place. The bank further steps in mobile banking for dedicated user. Recently the bank introduces e-broker services (HLeBroking). HLeBroking allows the flexibility of placing orders either through a phone call to our trading hub or via the internet. Professional dealers centralized in the hub are always on hand to execute transactions and monitor shares investment portfolio. (Shankar, Smith, and Rangaswamy, 2003) (Harris and Goode, 2004) 4.4 Implication and Evaluation of Analysis During this analysis it was assumed that strategies are reasonably orderly and knowable and, in turn, that evidence can help to evaluate theories that claim to explain these strategic positions. Data and information often founded confusing and imperfect. It seems almost certain that no single study can validate or invalidate a theory. Besides, there is a good chance that a large number of studies will not generate consistent results. (Agrawal, 2001) The methodology were used in analysis is not about developing a foolproof system; it is at least partly an art. There is no mechanical system that will escape judgment, sense, and intelligence. But this does not eliminate the need for techniques and standards. Product delivery approaches, geography, demography does plays role in strategic position which were missing in the analysis done. (Hong Leong Bank, 2009) The strategic planning process adopted by HLB was participative, consultative and result oriented. But the takes time to achieve results. While some important factors the bank missed out during strategic choices, individual departments must do their respective environmental scans through a SWOT analysis whereby they identified their internal strengths and weaknesses as well as the external opportunities and threats. (Hong Leong Bank, 2009) Business trends changes randomly. Todays product may not be available tomorrow. Thus no strategic plan could be exactly fit into business strategy. However, HLB could consider a more diversified strategy which would be more beneficial to determine strategic stand. Justification of a Strategy As the strategic position and strategic choices are different from the matrix analysis, a better strategic growth model is optimal solution. 5.1 McKinsey Growth Pyramid McKinsey growth pyramid is an upgraded version of Ansoff Matrix with broader discussing of important strategic factors. With every possible action there are certain alternatives (e.g. acquisition, joint ventures, alliances etc) with risk measurement from low to high. Existing products to existing customers This is considered lowest risk options go on businesses with current asset and current customer. But itll not be much beneficial for bank in long terms. Existing products to new customers Introduce existing products to new customer which may help them meet their daily financial needs so that they dont look for other financial choices. Consumers always look for much return while bank always looks for low give-away. New customers can be a turning point for any bank. Demographical (e.g. adult, children, senior) products would be vital products to attract new customers. (Harris and Goode, 2004) New products and services Over time, new products must be channeled into banking business. Broader distribution if Islamic banking could be a important factor. It is seen that many nom-Muslims adopted for Islamic banking. Since there is trend of Islamic banking growth, the bank should not take the risk to risk the potential customers due to lack of proper preparation. Some of the products may be delivered to existing customers. Risk may incur if the products doesnt appeal the customers. (El-Bdour and Erol, 1989) (Gerrad and Cunningham, 1997) New delivery approaches Todays consumer seek more convenient service provider. Banks are not exempted indeed. Many banks had adopted special facilities for different customers. Priority banking could be one solution. In priority banking everyone is unique and therefore has very specific financial needs. Thats why bank will offer a comprehensive range of privileges for convenience. Setting up special services only for young generation can be another important product delivery approaches. Dedicated services will invite more young generation to adopt the services. However, it could cost the bank some extra amount and if the products are not selling well, bank will face loss of resources. (Yoon, Guffey, and Kijewski, 1993) (Mols, 2001) http://www.filecluster.com/screenshots/61893.gif New geographies Geographical expansion is one of the most powerful options for growth but also one of the most difficult. The bank already went global opening branches in Singapore and Vietnam. This strategy is proven fine for well reputed bank (e.g. Citibank) but it has to be cautious in business. Geographical movement may bring new customers with solid financial needs but the bank has narrow down the scope of services due to high risk. (Sanzo et al, 2003) New industry structure The bank may re-assert the liquidity franchise and continue to address the yield challenge. While economics of the business have changed, unlike other countries, pricing and credit spreads did not adjust in tandem in the Malaysia. The quality of strategic asset-liability management, liquidity and capital management differentiates. Re-asserting core businesses with efficiency, unit cost management, operating leverage, dynamic pricing as well as customer value or returns on each customer relationship. Cross-selling and customer service are key success factors. (Agrawal, 2001) New competitive arenas Using competitive arena, business may transfer their resources and knowledge to new industry using vertical integration. This may pose immense risk to bank itself. Bank may loose it all investment. Despite the risk, this will help the bank grows rapidly and spread their products throw many distribution channels. (Gronroos, 1997) Conclusion The pre- and post-crisis strategic postures are a tale of worldwide economic fall down. The postures are characterized by the scaling up of the business, refining value propositions in each business, responding to competition and price war, building new capabilities and strengthening the risk and IT infrastructure as the bank sought to incrementally improve our market share and positioning. (Hong Leong Bank, 2009) (Gustafsson, Johnson, and Roos, 2005) The era ahead is more opportunistic in nature, with a rapidly changing eco-system and higher regulatory and prudential requirements. The shadow of the state on the sector globally is more pronounced. (Auh et al, 2007) Overall, the banks competitive strategy has to pivot on a competitive delivery, consisting of quality people, knowledge base and result oriented capability, market intelligence and local community embedment, entrepreneurialism and how it organize itself to scale and build new names. As it emerges from the crisis, it needs to re-segment the customers to market changes and re-build a compelling proposition on how to scale sustainability while staying opportunistic tactically. (Auh et al, 2007) References Auh, S., Bell, S.J., McLeod, C.S., Shih, E. (2007), Co-production and customer loyalty in financial services, Journal of Retailing, Vol. 88 No.3, pp.359-70. Fombrun, C., Shanley, M. (1990), Whats in a name? Reputation building and corporate strategy, Academy of Management Journal, Vol. 33 No.2, pp.233-48. Gustafsson, A., Johnson, M., Roos, I. (2005), The effects of consumer satisfaction, relationship commitment dimensions, and triggers on consumer retention, Journal of Marketing, Vol. 69 No.4, pp.210-18. Harris, L.C., Goode, M.M.H. (2004), The four levels of loyalty and the pivotal role of trust: a study of online services dynamics, Journal of Retailing, Vol. 80 pp.139-58 Roberts, K., Varki, S., Brodie, R. (2003), Measuring the quality of relationships in consumer services: an empirical study, European Journal of Marketing, Vol. 37 No.1-2, pp.169-96. Sanzo, M.J., Santos, M.L., Và ¡zquez, R., à lvarez, L.I. (2003), The effect of market orientation on buyer-seller relationship satisfaction, Industrial Marketing Management, Vol. 32 No.4, pp.327-45. Shankar, V., Smith, A., Rangaswamy, A. (2003), Customer satisfaction and loyalty in online and offline environments, International Journal of Research in Marketing, Vol. 20 pp.153-75. Spreng, R.A., Chiou, J. (2002), A cross-cultural assessment of the satisfaction formation process, European Journal of Marketing, Vol. 36 No.7-8, pp.829-39. Yoon, E., Guffey, H.G., Kijewski, V. (1993), The effects of information and company reputation on intentions to buy a business service, Journal of Business Research, Vol. 27 pp.215-28. Porter, M E. (1985) Competitive Advantage: Creating and Sustaining Superior Performance, New York: The Free Press. Gronroos, C., (1997) Value-driven Relations Marketing: From Products to Resources and Competencies. Journal of Marketing Management, Volume 13, Number 5, p. 407-419. Agrawal, P. (2001), The relation between savings and growth: co-integration and causality evidence from Asia, Applied Economics, Vol. 33, pp. 499-513. Chen, T.Y. (1999), Critical success factors for various strategies in the banking industry, International Journal of Bank Marketing, Vol. 17 No. 2, pp. 83-91. Dannenberg, M. and Kellner, D. (1998), The bank of tomorrow with todays technology, International Journal of Bank Marketing, Vol. 16 No. 2, pp. 90-7. Filotto, U., Tanzi, P.M. and Saita, F. (1997), Consumer needs and front-office technology adoption, International Journal of Bank Marketing, Vol. 15 No. 1, pp. 13-21. Mols, N.P. (2001), Organising for the effective introduction of new distribution channels in retail banking, European Journal of Marketing, Vol. 35 No. 5/6, pp. 661-86. Fornell, C. and Wernerfelt, B. (1987), Defensive marketing strategy by customer complaint management: a theoretical analysis, Journal of Marketing Research, Vol. 24, November, pp. 337-46. Jones, M.A., Mothersbaugh, D.L. and Beatty, S.E. (2000), Switching barriers and repurchase intentions in services, Journal of Retailing, Vol. 76 No. 2, pp. 259-74. Evans, K.R. and Beltramini, R.F. (1987), A theoretical model of consumer negotiated pricing: an orientation perspective, Journal of Marketing, Vol. 51, pp. 58-73. Jarvelin, A. and Lehtinen, U. (1996), Strategic integration in industrial distribution channels: managing the interfirm relationship as a strategic asset, Journal of the Academy of Marketing Science, Vol. 27 No. 1, pp. 4-18. Hong Leong Bank (2009), last accessed on 10th Dec 2009, Available at El-Bdour, R. and Erol, C. (1989), Attitudes, behaviour and patronage factors of bank customers towards Islamic banks, International Journal of Bank Marketing, Vol. 7 No. 6, pp. 31-7. Gerrad, P. and Cunningham, J.B. (1997), Islamic banking: a study in Singapore, International Journal of Bank Marketing, Vol. 15 No. 6, pp. 204-16. Haron, S., Ahmad, N. and Planisek, S. (1994), Bank patronage factors of Muslim and non-Muslim customers, International Journal of Bank Marketing, Vol. 12 No.1, pp. 32-40. Metawa, S.A. and Almossawi, M. (1998), Banking behaviour of Islamic bank customers: perspectives and implications, International Journal of Bank Marketing, Vol. 16 No. 7, pp. 299-313. Naser, K., Jamal, A. and Al-Khatib, K. (1999), Islamic banking: a study of customer satisfaction and preferences in Jordan, International Journal of Bank Mark

Needs Analysis in Syllabus Design

Needs Analysis in Syllabus Design Thank you for choosing our Language centre as one of your prospective providers. In this envelop you will find what you have requested from us. An essay with the explanation of Needs Analysis and Syllabus design in TESOL, and a description and rationale of the syllabus items for the two weeks course. We hope that you will be satisfied with the work we have produced. We would be very happy if we had the chance to collaborate with you. Part A: Needs Analysis: Needs analysis procedure in language teaching was first introduced and used by Michael West in 1920, but then re-emerged during 1970 as a result of intensive studies conducted by the council of Europe team. Needs analysis was developed and was emphasized in ESP (English for Specific Purposes) and it is argued that it is not possible to specify the needs of general English learners. Hutchinson and Walters (1987) describe need analysis as the most characteristic feature of English for Specific Purposes course design. It is also notable that a needs analysis is the starting point for a syllabus/course design. It is a part of a curriculum development, and is required before developing a syllabus. Thus, the information gathered from a need analysis can be used to define the program goals or sometimes to select the most relevant material for the language syllabus. Johnson K. (2008, pg.200) points out that: in order to plan a foreign language teaching we need to find a way of analysing learners needs. What is going to tell us just how much, and for what purposes our learners will need which foreign languages, it is the process of needs analysis. Needs Analysis in language teaching and language programme design, can be defined as a systematic process which helps teachers to collect information and get an accurate and complete picture of their students needs and preferences. Then they interpret the information collected and they make decisions about what to include in their programme, based on the interpretations in order to meet the students needs. This process can be used in response to the academic needs of all the students, for improving their achievements and meeting challenged academic standards. However, this process sometimes does not involve looking at the learners individual needs, but may involve looking at the requirements and expectations of other members involved, such as employees, parents, teachers and financial supporters. Some probable resources for gathering information are: questionnaires, surveys, tests, observations and individual interviews. Generally a need analysis tries to get information on the situations in which a language is going to be used, the purposes for which that language is needed, the types of communication that are going to be used in the course and the level of proficiency that is required to develop a syllabus. If a need analysis is used as a current part of teaching, it helps learners to reflect on their learning, to identify their needs, but also control their learning. Additionally, as Amie M. Casper (2003) states: The information gleaned from a need analysis can be used to help you define program goals. These goals can be stated as specific teaching objectives, which will function as the foundation on which a teacher will develop the lesson plans, materials, tests, assignments and activities. Thus, a need analysis helps you to elucidate the purposes of your learning program. Syllabus design in TESOL: All professional people, who are labelled as teachers or are somehow related to language teaching, sometimes in their career path will be responsible of creating a syllabus or at least they have created one. Basically, syllabus design is a key component of their course preparation. To start with, syllabus is defined as a statement of content, denoting what a particular programme is going to cover (Richards et al. 1985, qtd in Johnson K. 2008, pg.215), which means that a syllabus design involves planning course content. David Nunan (1988, pg.8) comments on syllabus design by stating that: A traditional syllabus design has been seen as a subsidiary component of the curriculum design. Curriculum is concerned with the planning implementation, evaluation management and administration of education programs, whereas syllabus focuses more narrowly on the selection and grading of context. Syllabus design procedures are required for deciding what is going to be taught in a language programme. A basic step prior to syllabus design is need analysis. Knowing exactly what to your students want, and why they want to learn English is a basic feature in a syllabus design. Generally, a right syllabus is designed into manageable chunks that can be followed and interact into each other. It is important that the effectiveness of the teachers class will be largely depending on how the lessons develop over time. Then, the teacher has to decide the content of his syllabus. He needs to make sure what to include in the syllabus so that it is relevant to what the students need. When it comes to organize the syllabus, the teacher designs his syllabus based on his list of prioritized topics or areas of his study. He has to make sure that his selected topics build up on others, but also that he uses a broad variety of resources and activities. Furthermore, the teacher has to be sure on which of the four skills (listening, speaking, writing, reading) to focus on, and which ones are the most important for his students. As you have read above, there have been identified three main stages in the process of a language syllabus. The first one is the needs analysis, then content specification and then syllabus organisation. There are two approaches to syllabus design. Product approach and process approach. Most syllabuses are based on product approach. In the product approach the teacher, teaches the students and then he tests them in order to evaluate them (evaluate their performance). A product syllabus focuses on what is going to be learnt at the end of the learning process (the outcomes) rather than the process itself. Some product-oriented syllabuses are the following: the grammatical syllabus, the functional syllabus and the lexical syllabus. On the other hand, a process approach on a syllabus concentrates on the skills and the processes which are involved in the learning process. There are different types of syllabuses in TESOL and they are the following: the situational, structural, topical, functional, notional, skills-based, and task based and lexical syllabus. Part B: Description and rational of the syllabus items: Having considered your needs, we have concluded to a relevant model of a syllabus designed especially for you. Obviously, what you are seeking for is the education of your receptionists for a better communication with your guests. Thus we are going to teach them those parts of English that are most relevant to them. Our organising principle for the selection and grading of what is going to be taught in this two-week course are notional-functional categories. We have decided to take communicative categories as the main principle of our syllabus. Thus this specific course is based on a notional/functional syllabus as it is the most relevant type of syllabus for this purpose. This program needs to be practical and relevant to your receptionists jobs. They need to learn how to use language under those several situations they face every day. The communicative functions were very carefully selected and sequenced according their usefulness to the receptionist and the extent to which they will meet the receptionists communicative needs. The syllabus is organised under the context hotel, which then is divided under a general heading (at the reception desk), with subheadings for specific activities. Within each situation, your receptionists will learn about aspects of that situation, and what language to use in order to communicate with the guests. We have ordered functions according to a chronological sequence because we think is more relevant to base the syllabus on the sequence of each action (what happens first, second, etc.), rather than grading them based on the associated language or grammar, as we are going to teach them how to use the relevant language under each situation. Hotel: At the reception desk: Greeting the guests/Giving visitors a friendly welcome Booking a room Giving/asking information Check-in Giving advise/ making suggestions Dealing with complaints check-out The situations listed in the syllabus are going to be practised through several of activities which will help your receptionists to develop and practise their abilities to communicate more effectively in a variety of real-life situations required in their work. The assumption that the receptionists already know the grammar has been a basic reason for starting this notional/functional syllabus, because what they need the most is to enhance their communicative skills when using language. Teaching based on this syllabus will add a communicative dimension to their already existing knowledge. We are going to activate this knowledge so that they will use it in order to do things with language (communicate better and learn functions of language under the context hotel). Generally, a notion is a particular context in which people communicate. A function is a specific purpose for a speaker in that given context. In this syllabus the notion of working in a hotel, requires a numerous of functions, such as greeting the guests, giving/ asking information, making suggestions, dealing with complaints etc. Thus, the syllabus items are focused on how the receptionists use English, in which purposes they use it and what exactly they need to learn in order to communicate more effectively with the hotel guests. The syllabus items, based on the contextualised exercises will give your receptionists the chance to improve and enhance their communicative abilities through those numerous functions of language we are going to teach them. The main reason for including those situations in the syllabus is because those are the most important situations in which a typical receptionist will take part in, and thus they need to work and practise their communicative abilities, but also they need to know what function of language to use under each situation. This is going to be done under several activities designed especially for this course. We think that the receptionists need to work their listening and speaking skills, as they are the most important skills they use in their work. Speaking skills are very important and they will be practised through role-plays between the students and the teacher. Listening skills will be practised through listening real life conversations, and then by completing activities related to the situations. It is important that effective speaking depends on successful listening. We decided to work on the other skills too, but the main emphasis will be given on listening and speaking skills. Relevant vocabulary, grammar rules and structures, but also pronunciation will be integrated in each situation. Your receptionists will be given the opportunity to practise their skills in real life situations involving authentic language use. Based on each situation, we have produced some exercises that present relevant instances of language. Vocabulary, grammar and functions derive from the situations selected. However, prior each situation we will teach them the appropriate grammar, vocabulary and structures of language they need to know. Under each situation, the receptionists will practise different functions of language. For example, when greeting visitors they will learn and practise relevant language on how to use language in order to greet their guests. This is also going to be done through listening several of greetings, based on real situations taking place in a hotel and produced by different people. We will give them the chance to practise listening comprehension through different listening activities. The receptionists must complete the comprehensions exercises in order to evaluate their understanding. Also, after or before a situation, students will be divided into groups and they will be given different scenarios in where they have to practise the topic they are given. Some scenarios examples based on greetings, are the following: Greet two guests as they approach the reception ( guests are an elderly couple) Greet two guests as they enter the hotel (these guests are very tired) Greet two guests as they enter the hotel ( these guests are very famous people) Greet the guests as they enter the hotel (A family with two young children) In this way, such a combination of elements will be associated with a fairly predictable language in terms of lexis, structure and function/interaction. Each situation they are going to listen to or practise it orally, will have a different structure, function and lexical items (taught prior each situation). Thus, all syllabus items are organised in a way which will be closely linked to a practical activity or task that the receptionist may have to undertake during their work. By the end of this course your receptionists will be able to communicate better under several situations, and they will also improve their communicative abilities.

Adolescence in The Master of Disaster by Guy Vanderhagae Essay

Adolescence marks the turning point of an individual's life, establishing the foundation of their development. It is during this phase that individuals leave behind the comfort of childhood and enter a reality beset with new perceptions of life. There are many stages of life, each enclosing its own distinct characteristics. As evident in the short story, The Master of Disaster, written by Guy Vanderhaeghe, adolescence involves growth as an individual, both physically and emotionally. Although each phase has its own challenges and difficulties, adolescence proves to be the most difficult stage of life to overcome. Through examination of the situations in the story, it becomes apparent that adolescence involves experiencing emotional conflicts between friends, searching for one's identity amid a period of change and overcoming the negative influence of peer pressure. Adolescence is a stage of life, overwhelmed by emotional conflicts between friends. It is a period of time where emotional instincts are weighed more than good judgement, when making decisions that will alter the outcome of the future. As evident in the story, there exists a strong emotional bond between Bernie and Kurt, "Whatever I withheld from Hiller, whatever would have been unspeakable in the company of the others was confided to Kurt Meinecke." (Vanderhaeghe, 59) It is apparent that trust is the foundation of their friendship. Trust is the firm belief in the reliability, truth and strength of an individual. However, Bernie decides to betray this trust, in choosing not to advise him of the intentions of Norman Hiller, "Norman was the flashy type, the guy who collected followers, collected them the way he did baseball cards and Superman comic boo... ...ents experience a time of mixed emotions between friends. They tend to make decisions, not with their head, but instead with their heart. Furthermore, adolescence is the turning point, through which individuals shape their identity. However, this proves to be difficult during a period of change, mentally and physically. Finally, within this transition, young people have the tendency to find reassurance in their peers. Nevertheless, this can often lead to negative peer pressure. The need for acceptance exists, so they are inclined to be vulnerable to influence. In a fast paced society, where constant change is inevitable, the transition from child to adult proves to be the most difficult. It is at this point in life, that adolescents shape the outcome of the future. Work Cited Vanderhaeghe, Guy.  Things as They Are?  Toronto: McClelland and Stewart, 1992.

Productivity in The US :: essays research papers fc

Productivity in the U.S. and What the Government Must Do   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  John sits at home each night with his wife and two children and watches the news. He listens as experts on the economy tell him that the economy is growing and that the GDP is growing. He wonders how this can be, because he lost his job months ago and has not been able to find work since. Has the very country that John lives in moved on and left him behind? This is the question that many Americans are asking themselves, and many more will be soon. In the 1960s and early 90s productivity in America increased by record amounts. The nation was prospering, people had jobs, and they were spending their money. All of this was done by simple government intervention. Now America is looking at another rise in productivity, but this time it may be a little bit different unless the government takes the proper steps.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The 1960s was a period of prosperity for the America. This was largely due to policies and the tax cuts that President Kennedy initiated at the beginning of the decade. His tax cuts were successful in lowering unemployment, encouraging people to invest more, and making the overall economy improve. To begin a period of prosperity there must be something to start it off. A tax cut gives people an incentive to work, save, and invest. President Kennedy said, â€Å"A rising tide lifts all boats† (Garfield, 1). This is proof that the government can have a big role in the economy. The Kennedy administration cut business taxes as well as investment taxes. This caused the Gross Domestic Product to grow by 4.5 percent in the 60s as compared to only 2.4 percent from 1952 to 1960 (Garfield, 3). Many people were worried that these tax cuts would raise the deficit, which makes since because lower taxes means the government will receive less money. However this was not tr ue. The tax cuts increased spending and investment to much that the government’s revenues increased 6.4 percent as compared to 1.2 percent from 1952 to 1959 (Garfield, 3). This proved that cutting the taxes can stimulate the economy enough to raise the government’s budget. This intervention by the government raised the standard of living for American citizens as well as increasing government revenue.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  President Bush has cut the taxes himself. However these tax cuts are far different from those of the 1960’s. Productivity in The US :: essays research papers fc Productivity in the U.S. and What the Government Must Do   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  John sits at home each night with his wife and two children and watches the news. He listens as experts on the economy tell him that the economy is growing and that the GDP is growing. He wonders how this can be, because he lost his job months ago and has not been able to find work since. Has the very country that John lives in moved on and left him behind? This is the question that many Americans are asking themselves, and many more will be soon. In the 1960s and early 90s productivity in America increased by record amounts. The nation was prospering, people had jobs, and they were spending their money. All of this was done by simple government intervention. Now America is looking at another rise in productivity, but this time it may be a little bit different unless the government takes the proper steps.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The 1960s was a period of prosperity for the America. This was largely due to policies and the tax cuts that President Kennedy initiated at the beginning of the decade. His tax cuts were successful in lowering unemployment, encouraging people to invest more, and making the overall economy improve. To begin a period of prosperity there must be something to start it off. A tax cut gives people an incentive to work, save, and invest. President Kennedy said, â€Å"A rising tide lifts all boats† (Garfield, 1). This is proof that the government can have a big role in the economy. The Kennedy administration cut business taxes as well as investment taxes. This caused the Gross Domestic Product to grow by 4.5 percent in the 60s as compared to only 2.4 percent from 1952 to 1960 (Garfield, 3). Many people were worried that these tax cuts would raise the deficit, which makes since because lower taxes means the government will receive less money. However this was not tr ue. The tax cuts increased spending and investment to much that the government’s revenues increased 6.4 percent as compared to 1.2 percent from 1952 to 1959 (Garfield, 3). This proved that cutting the taxes can stimulate the economy enough to raise the government’s budget. This intervention by the government raised the standard of living for American citizens as well as increasing government revenue.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  President Bush has cut the taxes himself. However these tax cuts are far different from those of the 1960’s.

Internal and external factors effecting the cost position Essay

The increased imports of the European as well as the Japanese make of automobiles in the United States significantly impacted the demand of the automobiles manufactured by the US manufacturers. â€Å"Imports of sub-compact cars from Europe and Japan rose steadily in the 1950s, often as families’ second cars but US manufacturers retained their hold on the lucrative markets for larger vehicles. † (French, 1997, p142) The US manufactures saw their market shrink as the more aware and price conscious consumers shifted to the European and Japanese counter parts for their automobiles, while the US manufacturers were left with making large, excessive fuel consuming vehicles that denoted social status and personal style. Aside from this the increasing prices of crude oil in the international market in the 1970s also significantly changed the demand of the automobiles as depicted by the consumers. â€Å"A crisis in the US car-market developed as a result of sudden unforeseen shifts in the general environment which allowed overseas producers to expand market share rapidly. New car sales faltered in the 1970s and excess capacity increased. At the same time the leap in fuel prices shifted the consumer preference towards smaller, more fuel efficient cars which Japanese and European makers already supplied in their domestic markets and were better able to produce that were the US manufacturers used to making larger, more up-market ‘gas-guzzlers’† (French, 1997, p142) The automobiles of French and Japanese make were smaller, more fuel efficient as well as more stylish yet cheaper than the those manufactured by the big three US automobile manufactures. As a result the consumers opted for purchasing the imported cars instead of those manufactured by the Unites States manufacturers. The recession of the 1970s also further reduced the disposal income and the propensity to save for the people in the United States which made purchasing the imported European and Japanese models of automobiles much more attractive to the consumers instead of opting for those models manufactured by the big three US automobile manufacturers. In the same period the perception of the consumers also significantly changed as was marked by the baby boomer generation and the hippy era. In this period, the consumer became more aware of the environment, the increasing pollution and the contribution that automobiles made towards adding to the pollution levels. As a result the consumers started to look for cheaper alternatives of travel and those which were more environmental friendly that the vehicles manufactured by the big three US automobile manufacturers. The internal factors that contributed to the changing cost position of the Bridgestone Industries, specifically at the plant pertained to the decreasing demand of the US manufactured cars and increased demand for cheaper cars that was reflected un the restricting cost based purchases being made by the big three manufactures form the Bridgestone Industries. As the volume of sales decreased for Bridgestone Industries, along with the margin for profits on sales made due to the rising overhead costs the cost position of the Bridgestone Industries significantly changed to become negative and resulted in the closing of the automotive component and fabrication facility by the Bridgestone Industries. Overhead Burden Rate The Bridgestone Industries had a specific method for determining the overhead burden rate for the products that was proposed and set on an annual basis. â€Å"The budgeted unit costs provided by the plant for the 1987 model year study included overhead (burden) applied to products as a percentage of direct labor dollar cost. The overhead percentage was calculated at the budget time and used throughout the model year to allocate overhead to products using a single overhead pool. The overhead rate used in the study was 435% of direct labor cost† (Patricia & Cooper, 1993) The following table depicts the overhead burden rate for the years starting 1987 through to 1990. Overhead Burden Rate (‘000) 1987 1988 1989 1990 Total Overheads 107,954 109,890 78,157 79,393 Total Direct Labor Dollar Cost 24,682 25,294 13,537 14,102 Overhead Burden Rate 437 434 577 562 The analysis of the overhead burden that was determined for the years, 1987, 1988, 1989 and 1990 showed that the total over heads increased from 1987 to 1988. However in 1989, there was a drop in the overhead level as the muffler exhausts and the oil pan based product lines were merged with the other three product lines. This reduced the overheads significantly. In 1990 however the trend shows that the overheads for the Bridgestone Industries increased again on an annual basis. The direct labor dollar cost showed a similar trend as well reflecting the increasing expenses along with the effect that the closure of the muffler/exhaust and oil pan lines had on the labor cost. The overhead burden rate that was determined pertained to approximately 437 percent in 1987, 434 percent in 1988, 577 percent in 1989 and 562 percent in 1990. The following table depicts the overhead burden shared by the respective product lines at the Bridgestone Industries for the years starting 1987 through to 1990. Overhead Burden Share per Product Line (‘000) Overhead Burden 1987 1988 1989 1990 Fuel Tanks 18,234. 35 18,412. 03 25,490. 37 25,891. 96 Manifolds 25,744. 16 26,184. 35 36,246. 56 36,819. 62 Doors 11,463. 72 11,864. 85 16,420. 07 16,681. 43 Mufflers/Exhausts 24,646. 33 25,050. 44 0 0 Oil Pans 27,865. 45 28,378. 33 0 0 107,954 109,890 78,157 79,393 The overheads shared by the respective product lines also depicted significant change in the years from 1987 to 1990. On average the oil pans product line had the largest overheads allocated to its while the product line for the front and rear doors had the lowest overhead levels for the years 1987 and 1988. When the product lines were merged in 1989, the manifolds product line had the largest level of overheads allocated to it, while the product line for front and rear doors had the lowest level of overheads assigned to it. On a year to year basis, the overhead burden level has decreased by a small gradual percentage over the four years highlighted. This is not due to the fact that the overheads for the company have been decreasing; instead this has occurred due to the fact that the dollar cost of the direct labor has incrementally increased over the four year period as well resulting in the decrease in the overhead burden rate.

Internal And External Business Environment Of Bunzl Plc

Bunzl is one of the world’s fastest growing specialist distribution groups in international market. The groups specialized in providing one-stop-shop for customers within several business sectors. The business includes producing a range of product including outsourced food packaging, disposable supplies and cleaning and safety products, caterers, non-food retail, hotels, etc. Its operations spread across North America, Europe and Australasia. Within this paper, we will focus more on the retail sector of Bunzl’s business environment.The company existed as far as 1854, as a haberdashery business founded by Moritz Bunzl in Slovakia, but it was not named Bunzl plc until 1940. The Bunzl family transmigrated to US and Europe and formed Tissue Paper Limited, the original name for Bunzl plc. During its early years, the company enters various types of business some of them were successful and some other are failures. Going through several changes of direction, the company did no t loose its existence in local as well as international market.Today, the company is a focused international value added distribution and outsourcing group, with the addition of Filtrona, a supplier of fibre and plastic technology products to international niche markets, listed as a separate entity (‘History’, 2006). Within this paper, I will perform an analysis on the internal and external business environment of Bunzl plc. The following chapter will elaborate how the company manages its internal conditions during its daily operations. The next chapter is about the external conditions of the retail sectors, and the challenges it brought to Bunzl plc.In the later part of the paper, there will be a short analysis on how best Bunzl perform its strategic management to face corporate challenges. II. Internal Strategic Environment of Bunzl Plc II. 1 Bunzl Core Competencies Bunzl has formulated a range of corporate mission to guide its steps in daily operations. The company s upported manufacturers who assist in satisfying customers’ needs for the benefit of all. It aims to provide services of such excellence that customers prefer Bunzl as their supplier regardless of the brand and product they select (‘About Bunzl Distribution’, 2006).If all successful companies have their own values that describe their competitive advantages, for Bunzl, it is the effective and creative utilization of technology. The company has only a single and uniform hardware and software platform to operate its business. The main data center of the company resides at its Corporate Headquarters in St Louis. The facility includes UPS generator, dual A/C and redundant telecommunications. The company also has a ‘hot site’ disaster recovery center where all transaction data are relayed to this site as a protection from natural disaster (‘Bunzl plc – Major Products and Services’, 2006).The company has a real time software system consis t of order processing, purchasing, receiving, billing, sales, warehousing, distribution and accounting modules. All locations of Bunzl operations are equipped with those software and all of them are connected to a centralized database repository, which is maintained by corporate IT staff. The company also maintains a National Accounting Customers system that provides customers from all over the country with standardized reports (including fill rates, sales tracking, item utilization, etc).In the retail sector, the company has an extensive network of distribution centers that serves retail supermarkets. Using the technology elaborated above, the company aims to maintain the quality of its services. Furthermore, it utilizes e-commerce facilities for online ordering and EDI computer-based technologies to support its ongoing strategies to increase productivity, service quality and achieved their ‘packaged of performance’ slogan. E-commerce technology is also used to continu e explore new business opportunities.These new business opportunities might be pursued in the form of internal growth as well as acquisition of new business (‘Bunzl plc – Major Products and Services’, 2006). II. 2 Product and Market Management Bunzl retail segment grocery customers include small, regional and national supermarket chains as well as warehouse grocery stores. The retail segment provided Bunzl’s customers with disposable packaging, supplies and carryout items. The retail outsourcing segment has a fleet of over 370 trucks, operating through 83 locations in North America and serving all 50 states, plus Canada and Mexico (‘Bunzl plc- Business Description’, 2006).The company is the leading distributor of disposable paper and plastic packaging supplies to the retail grocery industry. This includes the self-distributing chains and wholesalers. Bunzl is the company who is recognized for revolutionizing the outsourcing industry. The compa ny revolutionized that industry by developing sophisticated marketing, procurement and logistics systems designed to lower the delivered costs of supplies. Within this retail sector, Bunzl offers customers three types of logistics systems, which are: ? Direct-Store-Door (DSD), which constitutes a direct delivery to customers stores and supermarkets? Warehouse Replenishment System, which describes a just-in-time delivery system to customers’ warehouses instead of to customers’ retail stores. ? Cross Docking, which describes a system that serves clients in accordance to their individual stores’ needs? It is a system of individualized store-ready deliveries. (‘Bunzl plc- Business Description’, 2006) II. 3 Financial and Performance Management From the figures displayed in their financial report, the company displayed an increasing amount of sales and net profit during the last decade.This displayed a considerable growth of market share which is an impor tant indicator of overall corporate performance. The profit margin and operational ratios also display positive indication. A more detailed data revealed that the company made ? 2,182 million from sales in the year 2000, while in the year 2005; the sales number went up to ? 2,916 million. Other sales numbers between the two periods indicated a stable increase of corporate performance. The operating profit account of 2000 displayed a number of ? 165 million, while in 2005, this number changes to ? 205 million.The number between the years also displayed a stable rate of increase. Other accounts from the income statement as well as the balance sheet indicated that the company manages their resources in a very presentable manner. II. 4 Human Resource and Culture Management In terms of human resource management, the company aims to provide employees with real jobs since the fist day of work. This means that the company will expect high quality of working performance, but not before all e mployees are provided with training that involves practical experience as well as formal programs.The company has high expectations on key personal skills such as teamwork, leadership, self-development, innovation and creativity. Maintaining these programs, Bunzl aims to: ? Increase employees’ personal effectiveness by concentrating on the tried and tested techniques used by managers and specialist around the world. ? Improve employees’ financial understanding by providing them with programs that educated employees to interpret financial information and make decisive contribution to the key financial ratios of the business? Help employees to concentrate on team working and enablement, making each of them realized that enablement of individuals are crucial to a team’s success, etc Graduates that joined with Bunzl stated that Bunzl has a carefully structured training scheme, which covers a wide range of areas and gives trainees exposure to the whole organization. They stated that the company only take few graduates but tend to be encouraging in the process of developing their practical as well as decisive skills. They also mentioned that the company values teamwork and equality in performing team tasks.III. External Business Environment of Bunzl Plc III. 1 Macro Environment (PEST Analysis) ? Political Politically, the company did not have many obstacles that harm growth. The company operates in foreign markets, but limited to the regions of North America, Europe and Australasia, in which, political business restrictions are minimum. Because Bunzl do not perform business activities in China or in other Asian economy, the business experiences minimum complications when it comes to government regulations, market entrance and tax.The company also has a reputation of providing employees with equal work treatment, this keeps all problems of race and nationality away forms Bunzl operations (Desloge, 2005). Furthermore, Bunzl plc is officially headq uartered in London, who provided it with a slightly lighter burden of taxation. Nevertheless, because most of the group’s operations are in countries with higher tax rate (US and European countries); the taxation charge recorded for Bunzl in its financial report could be higher that the UK base rate.For instance, in 2004 the recorder tax rate was 32%, which is slightly higher that the nominal UK rate of 30%. Another political obstacle is the approval of regulators in foreign country. This is because a country’s government where Bunzl interests in needs to protect local players. Therefore, politically, the objective of Bunzl to enter new market in a foreign countries might be delayed due to regulation to protect local players. ? Economic The retail segment is naturally a capital intensive business. Retail companies generally perform considerable borrowing actions which will be paid-off gradually by years of profit.In the case of Bunzl, the company has been on the busine ss for decades and therefore, has already a low debt to capital ratio. In order words, the company no longer has to carry the heavy burden of interest rates. Nevertheless, the company performed numerous large acquisitions in its operational years that new borrowings are made occasionally. For example, the net interest charge for continuing operations increased to ? 10. 8 million from ? 2. 9 million because increased average borrowings due to recent acquisitions (‘Bunzl eyes more acquisitions’. 2006).Environmentally, only a small portion of the increase in interest charge is caused by fluctuation of interest rates. The environments in which Bunzl performs its operations are comparatively stable. The translation issue also has a weak influence over corporate profitability. Any fluctuation would not cause changes to more than 1% of sales number. According to Porter and Ketels (2003), within the last two decades, the UK economy had shown some excellent economic metrics. The y also said that the awareness on the issues of competitiveness had also increased significantly.This situation had helped the country to improve the country’s prosperity since there is an increase in the level of labor force utilization (hours worked per employee, employment rate, and labor force participation rate). In addition, they found that the country had experienced good growth in labor productivity while the country’s export market share and the attractiveness of FDI (Foreign Direct Investment) were still stable. Despite the excellent performance in some economics metrics, Porter and Ketels (2003) pointed out that UK still lag many other advanced economies.They said while labor utilization is at high level, the country still face low labor productivity (Porter and Ketels, 2003). ? Socio-cultural Concerning the socio-cultural aspects, the company might consider following questions like, what are the attitudes toward foreign products. How strong are the environm ental issues? Are they important to address especially if we are embarking on international markets? (â€Å"PEST Analysis†). Under such circumstances, the customers and manufacturer/service providers, like Bunzl are closely related.It further influences the way Bunzl interacts with their suppliers in order to ensure the products tailored to fit their customers’ needs and faster delivery. In the socio-cultural aspect, the company does not deal with extreme differences of culture, as faced by other multinationals. On the other hand, the company faces a slightly more demanding corporate social responsibility (CSR) practices. Modern communities in the North America, Europe and Australasian region are more aware of the importance of a good CSR practice by multinationals.In the case of Bunzl plc, besides ensuring all-ethical operational processes, the company also performs various community investments. There is no apparent socio-cultural debacle in the corporate history. ? Technological The technological environment provided a tremendous chance for growth to Bunzl. The company lives within an advanced society where access to technology is practically limitless. The technology provided the company with the potential to increase the quality of its outsourcing services. For example, Bunzl can develop centralized procurement system, which employs computerized system as shown in the following figure: