Saturday, August 31, 2019

Learning Team Deliverables Essay

Organizational culture consists of different traditional ways, values, and certain beliefs when setting out the rules for making a decision, power, and formation of a company. The organizational culture focuses more on leadership values. Culture determines the way we as people handle business and also for one’s own success. By having a structured organizational culture, it allows the employees to feel that if they do what is right, they will be rewarded for their actions. The following paragraphs will discuss the impact of leadership and the mores of senior management and how they affect both the culture and the application of power. We as a group have chosen a law firm as the â€Å"model† company. Coercive Power Coercive power is a form of manipulation used on employees to bring about a sense of fear. Employees conform to coercive powers for fear of retaliation. Coercive power in the long run can lead to character flaws amongst employees. Law firms that use coercive powers are usually only concerned with short term goals. Coercion used long term can cause dissatisfied partners’ performance to drop. Partners may eventually end up leaving the organization because they feel nothing good is going to happen for them. For instance, peer pressure at a law partnership could be a form of coercion to gain a unanimous decision regarding financial decisions. Long term affect could lead to the partnership being resolved due to one of the partners’ dissatisfaction in the ways things are going. Reward Power Law Partners who conform to the rules to receive positive benefits for their efforts enjoy reward power. Law Partners enjoy reward power since it allows them to control negative repercussions by doing well. Partnerships use reward power to help encourage partners to perform high and meet the firm’s goal. For example, bonuses given at the end of each year could motivate all partners to do well. Reward powers usually benefits all parties involved. Legitimate Power The most common access to one or more of the power bases is legitimate power. â€Å"Legitimate power represents the formal authority to control and use organizational resources based on structural position in the organization.† (Stephen P. Robbins, Timothy A. Judge, 2011) In a law firm, that structure is driven by the board of directors, then to the partners. Those that are lawyers are submissive to the partners in hopes to become one someday themselves. We associate power with hierarchy, so employees infer leaders as powerful and comply when an executive order is placed. Although, legitimate power is the most recognized, having expert power is just as powerful. Expert Power In any organization, most of the time employees are easily replaced. If one provides the same service or acting task in a like manner as their counterpart, then replacing them is not that difficult. However, having a niche that is not easily replaced provides expert power. Expert power is the ability to provide an expertise and the respect and admiration of others. In a law firm, the knowledge of being able to defend or represent the firm in a way that is beyond the ability of others creates an expert power that will buy you life in the firm. Since law firms are all about winning their cases, the more one brings to the table, the better the opportunity of becoming partner. Referent power Referent power in any organization allows an individual to be considered for hire or a current employee to receive warranted or unwarranted compensation for their contribution to the entity. Referent power in a Law Partnership can assist in an employee becoming Partner of the firm. Rewards incurred from this power are influenced by interactions and the ability to relate to others. This power has been stated to hold more weight due to its intimacy. It has been directly correlated with positive performance, satisfied employees and the organization knowingly aware of an employee’s commitment and contribution to the organization. The use of the five power bases in a Law Partnership is commonplace. However, in order for the firm to be successful, the board of directors and partners must possess strong leadership skills, and abide by an even stronger code of ethics when exerting their powers. Leaders of the partnership use their reward and  legitimate authority to motivate others, encouraging growth, and further development of skills. Expertise is used to contribute to the growth of the firm, and not used as a ransom for personal gain. In addition, a strong sense of values in leaders of the firm will bring about an atmosphere of respect and trust, thus upper levels of the partnership use reference and personal influence within ethical confines. The use of all power bases for individual gain will not bring about sustainable growth and should be avoided. Furthermore, use of coercion power will create fear and distrust, and if the other powers are also being misused, partnership’s culture can be affected stress, lack of motivation, loss of staff, and corruption, and even b etrayal. References Schermerhorn, J. R., Hunt, J. G., & Osborn, R. N. (2005). Organizational Behavior (9th ed.). Retrieved from https://ecampus.phoenix.edu/content/eBookLibrary2/content/TOC.aspx?assetid=bb2bb7b2-43f9-41d6-af58-cf49682ce588&assetmetaid=20a7c5ea-8d61-49ba-b292-5374bc15903f. Stephen P. Robbins, Timothy A. Judge. 14th ed. (2011). University of Phoenix website. Retrieved May 1, 2014 from https://newclassroom3.phoenix.edu

Personal Plan Essay

My personal plan is to for me to better myself with my personal and educational goals. With the help of the Career Interests Profiler and Career Plan Building Activity I can identify what I need to work on. Also, they help make my SMART goals, which I think are necessary for me to complete to make my personal plan successful. My SMART goals are; take a Math workshop within the next 2-4 weeks to improve my math skills, take a writing workshop within the next 4-6 weeks to improve my writing skills, find a mentor that is an accountant within the next 6 months, explore the accountant job market within the next 2 months, and to take a study guide workshop within the next 3-5 weeks to improve my study skills. I think that those two results along with my ethics results will help me guide through my academic and personal journey. I also agree with my competency’s results. I think it is more important to work on areas that need improvement then to focus on my strengths I feel as though my Personal Career Interest results were correct. My career results are material recording, scheduling, dispatching, and distributing material recording, secretaries, administrative assistant, and supervisor of an office, administrative support worker and supervisor of sales worker. I also feel as though my results matched my strengths. The results revealed that my strengths are that I am conventional, enterprising, and social. I take my personal education and career goals very serious. I feel as though my goals are what is going to help me succeed in my education and career. My biggest personal education goal is to graduate with a Bachelors in Accounting. Another educational goal I have is to try my hardest to uphold a 3.0 GPA. When it comes to my career goals I know they are ones that I will accomplish, because they are the reason why I am in college. My first career goal is to become an accountant. Then once I am an accountant I want to work for my local hospital and be their accountant. And my final career goal is to have my own CPA business. I think that everyone should have education and career goals, because that is what pushes you to succeed. My career interests will help me guide through my academic journey, because I will know what courses I need to take to get my career. After taking the Career Interest Profiler, my results showed me that I am meant to be an Accountant. My competencies will guide me in many ways through my  academic journey. My competencies that will guide me through my journey are that I learn from failure and success, follow instructions from others, follow procedures and policies, achieve goals, uphold ethics and values, work under pressure and, demonstrate an immediate understanding of newly presented information. I feel as though pursing a degree does help me build on my competencies that I need for my future career. The competencies I need to build for my career are to set high standards for quality, build diverse teams, work under pressure, rapidly learn a new task and commit information to memory quickly. The academic work that I do for my course assignments are related in some type of way to all my competencies. For example my competency to set high standards for quality goes hand in hand with setting a goal to write the best papers that I can for my course assignments. My personal ethics, Career Plan competencies, and reasoning abilities results will all help me in many ways to guide me through my academic journey. My personal ethics will help me to know what is right and wrong when it comes to my academics. For example I will work hard to do my writing assignments instead of choosing to plagiarize. My competencies and reasoning abilities will also help me through my academic journey. All of my competencies and reasoning abilities will help me. I do not only believe that all three of these things will help me through my academic journey but that my academic journey will help me build on these things to make them stronger for future career.

Friday, August 30, 2019

Essay about American Industrialization Essay

Industrialization between 1865 and 1920 had many different effects on American life. In some ways, industrialization improved American life. However it also created problems in American society. There are several advantages and disadvantages to industrialization. In the decades following the Civil War the amount of factory jobs and city jobs increased. Rural populations decreased as urbanization increased. (See Document 1) Education rates and steel production rates also increased during this time period. The growth of railroads made transportation easier and more available to the public. John D. Rockefeller argued that industrial combinations, such as trusts and monopolies, were a benefit to industry. (See Document 6) He stated that through industrial combinations a business could expand its markets, while producing low priced goods, and still making a profit for stockholders. Steel making entrepreneur, Andrew Carnegie, had donated much of his wealth to the building of public libraries and other charities. (See Document 7) There were several positive effects of industrialization on American society. Industrialization was also the cause for many problems in American society. With the rise of big business a huge gap was created between the rich and the poor. The rich business owners were very wealthy and always had the best of everything, while working man lived in poverty. (See Document 5) Many people worked in sweatshops for as little as 25 cents per day. (See Document 4) Workers organized into labor unions such as the Knights of Labor and the American Federation of Labor. Under these labor unions, workers fought for higher wages, shorter hours, and safer working conditions. (See Document 2) The huge amounts of wealth created by the hardships faced by the workers is why this time period of industrialization came to be known as the Gilded Age. Industrialization between 1865 and 1920 had improved the national economy and the life of business owners. However millions of Americans suffered from low wages and living in poverty. Industrialization had a major effect on all Americans.

Thursday, August 29, 2019

Enviroment Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Enviroment - Research Paper Example There are varying sources of carbon dioxide especially the quantities found in the earth’s atmosphere. For example, environmentalists put the number at about 391 ppm (parts per million). Similarly, there is volcanic gassing, burning of fuels, combustion of organic matter and power generation that result to the excessive release of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere (Kemp 145). Other sources of carbon dioxide are cited as natural especially the decomposition of organic matter found in the grasslands and the forests. There is also notable emission of the gas into the environment from the respiration existing aerobic organisms. There are several effects of carbon dioxide in the environment in respect to the health of human beings and the immediate environment. For instance, in terms of positive effects, there are plant growths especially during the photosynthesis and transpiration processes. However, the negative effects supersede the positive such as the increase of the earth temperature. This eventually leads to global warming that finally leads to acidic rain. In other words, there is a mix of rainfall of carbon dioxide that comes in form of smoke from burning charcoal. On that account, the acidic rain affects crops by depositing acids especially in the oceans when it ends up poisoning sea creatures (McMichael & World Health Organization 145). In other words, the carbonic acid also affects crops by burning their leaves leaving traces of elements such as zinc and lead. The increase in earth temperatures also results to the warming of water bodies such as lakes, seas and rivers hence affecting creatures t hat have a direct dependence on water bodies. In the same view, there are also anthropogenic health risks of carbon dioxide that are paramount apart from the environmental effects. These are the human impacts of the gas upon the biophysical environments and other biodiversity resources.

Wednesday, August 28, 2019

Nursing Children and Childbearing Families Essay - 1

Nursing Children and Childbearing Families - Essay Example It can also lead to abortion and still birth (RCOG, 2008). b) Folate supplementation prior to conception reduces the risk of neural tube defects like spina bifida. It is recommended to take this B-group vitamin, much before conception to third month of pregnancy. Seven out of ten cases of neural tube defects can be prevented by taking folate supplementation. It important to take folate before conception because neural tube formation occurs during initial weeks when pregnancy is most often not confirmed. The recommended dose for supplementation is 400 micrograms per day (RCOG, 2009). Question 2. a) Breast feeding has several advantages to the baby and the mother. Advantages to mother include decreased risk of certain diseases like osteoporosis and cancers, faster return of uterus to prepregnancy state, natural contraception and psychological sense of confidence as the mother provides completed nourishment for her baby. For the baby, the benefits include complete nutrition that is easi ly digestible, safe, warm and palatable, protection from infectious diseases because of presence of antibodies in the milk especially in the colostrum, enhancing of mother-child bonding and attachment and decrease in the risk of atopic dermatitis, asthma and other chronic illnesses. b) Breast feeding protects the babies from developing allergies. The main immune factor that is responsible for the benefits is a substance called secretory immunoglobulin A (IgA) that's present in large amounts in colostrum. Babies fed on cow's milk or soy milk or even other formula feeds tend to have increased risk of allergies. The IgA forms a protective layer on the intestinal wass preventing undigested proteins from causing allergic reactions. Another important characteristic of breast milk that helps the baby is that it enhances cognitive development in infant because of breast-feeding, prolonged skin contact, the reduction in maternal stress with feeding, and the improved mother-infant interaction . Breast milk also has some brain growth factors which help in the growth of brain and development of intelligent skills (WHO, 2011). Question 3. a) Positive effects of early discharge include recovery of mother and child in a familiar atmosphere of home, decreased risk of iatrogenic infections and decreased health care costs (NICE, 2007). Negative effects include increased risk of readmission due to feeding problems, unopened bowels, reflux-related problems and neonatal jaundice and increased risk of mortality due to choking episodes and other illnesses like viral illness (NICE, 2007). b) Recovery in a familiar home environment decreases stress for the mother and also family members because of increased availability of resources and comfort at home. In the hospital, the child and mother can contract infections from other patients and this can increase the duration of hospital stay and health care costs. Feeding is not established until third or fourth day after delivery and feeding problems can be stressful both for the mother and the baby and can in turn lead to decreased milk production. This becomes a vicious cycle. Improper feeding techniques can cause choking in the baby or even hypoglycemic episodes. Presence in the hospital allows health professionals help the mother and tackle any complications immediately. Exaggerated physiological jaundice and jaundice due to ABO incompatibility are more often detected on the third or fourth da

Tuesday, August 27, 2019

My generation negative and postive issues Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

My generation negative and postive issues - Essay Example Even while outside perspectives on Generation Y might overemphasize technology when examining this generation, I recognize that the explosion of the Internet and the personal computer were defining characteristics. In these regards, my generation will be recognized as the last generation to emerge in an era before the Internet. When I consider the implications of such an occurrence, I recognize that it has positive and negative elements. Millennials were the last to experience the unfettered nature of existence prior to the onslaught of technological mediation that accompanied the computer, while at the same time being introduced to this technology at a formative enough period to grasp its more subtle concepts. Undoubtedly future generations growing up in this new world will build on Internet achievements, but they will always lack the more natural connection with the physical world of prior ages. Another prominent defining characteristic of my generation is experiencing the shifting economic stratosphere. This has been a unique experience as the 90s brought unparalleled economic growth and development only to result in a bubble economy that would pop in 1999 and then, as a result of the subprime mortgage crisis, collapse in 2008. I believe this experience has had a negative impact on my generation, as we had become accustomed to one way of living only to have it taken away. When I consider movements such as the Occupy Wall Street protests I recognize that although income disparity is a pressing concern, a great amount of the protestors are simply discontent at their inability to attain high paying employment. I believe growing up in a bubble economy greatly conditioned them to expect this out of life, resulting in a youth culture of entitlement. While there are negative aspects of my generation I also recognize that there is much to be

Monday, August 26, 2019

Write a critical reivew of Five minds of a manager of Henry Mintzberg Annotated Bibliography

Write a critical reivew of Five minds of a manager of Henry Mintzberg and 3 other peer reviewed articles - Annotated Bibliography Example What is critical about this article is the assumption that the authors have actually attempted to generalize the different organizing principles applied by the managers. Though authors have focused upon managing self, organization, context, relationships and change within an organization however, for a manager to master all the traits at one time could be difficult task. As authors suggested that the managers must have to bring all mindsets to work together it is therefore relatively difficult for the managers to assume all the roles and perform them at their best. Managers may have to make a trade-off between certain mindsets as their actions must be based upon what is exactly in the best interest of the organization by taking into account the cost benefit analysis of their decisions and actions. Authors argue that all five mindsets must be weaved together to achieve the balance however this balancing act may not be possible to achieve. This article discussed about the mindset required to actually mentor the employees and help them to grow. The author has actually outlined that in order to properly groom the successors, organizations actually let the time pass on and fail to actually groom the employees and successors. The approach taken by the managers may not be suitable enough to actually allow successors to develop more maturity to assume the positions of responsibility in future. Author therefore has argued that to properly mentor the employees for the next level in their career, it is important that mentors must assume a special mindset which can foster such mentoring within the organization. This mindset requires slow, subtle and forgiving mindset which can actually allow managers to accommodate the mistakes of the followers and actually help them to correct their mistakes. This article is limited in the sense that it presents just one side of the argument and provides

Sunday, August 25, 2019

Employees in an International Market Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Employees in an International Market - Essay Example As Groenewald (2009) states, â€Å"staffing, training, compensation, and performance management are basically important tools in the human resources practices† (p. 1). In this paper, we will examine the functions of human resource department in managing employees in an international marketplace. Most Critical Human Resource Functions To manage employees in an international marketplace, the human resource department of a company needs to execute some critical functions. These functions not only ensure a smooth running of business processes but also help a company achieve its corporate goals and objectives effectively and efficiently. Some of the most important HR functions in this regard include aligning recruitment process with corporate objectives, starting programs for employee training and development, and increasing employee motivation. Let us discuss these functions in some details to know their significance for a better management of employees. Aligning Recruitment with Corporate Objectives One of the main roles of the HR department is to align the employee recruitment process with the overall strategy of the company in order to build an inspired and productive workforce. Employee selection is one of those functions that are critical to ensuring a company’s success. It is the responsibility of the HR department of a company to recruit such people, who can prove themselves productive for the company through their skills, talent, and knowledge. A skilled and experienced employee is a key towards the success of a company. Therefore, global HR managers look for such people who can give improved performances and can ensure high levels of profits for the company through their performances. In today’s competitive world, recruiting and forming a diverse workforce...This paper stresses that employee training also plays a valuable role in ensuring long-term profitability of a company. Therefore, HR professionals put their efforts in investing i n employee training and development programs to improve the individual performances of employees as well as to increase an overall organizational productivity. Employee training and development also help in creating a pool of suitable replacements for the employees who either resign from their jobs or get promotions within the company, hence, leaving their positions available for other suitable candidates. Employee motivation is the combination of employees’ job-related behaviors, the level of efforts employees exert, and the employees’ level of determination. Companies are at risk of facing many setbacks with a lower level of employee motivation.This report makes a conclusion that effective human resource management is one of the most important factors that determine the success of a company in local and international markets. The main functions of the human resource department in managing employees in an international marketplace include strategic employee selection and recruitment, developing effective employee training programs, and increasing employee motivation to meet corporate goals and objectives. Some of the main outcomes of focusing on employee management in broader terms include selective and strategy-oriented recruitment of employees, improved organizational performance, improved business efficiency, and formation of a skilled workforce which is able to meet the requirements of the international business environment.

Saturday, August 24, 2019

History Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words - 2

History - Essay Example In this essay I will attempt an outline of five of the earliest religions that are known including those of Ancient Greece and India, the early Islamic religion and the early religious views of Africa. However, to begin I will examine the religious views of the early Chinese civilization. In fact, in the early Chinese civilization there are said to have existed three separate doctrines. These doctrines were Confucianism, Buddhism and Taoism. The religions of Christianity and Islam are said not to have reached this region until the 7th century A.D. The ideas of Taoism are said to have originated in the 6th century B.C and were founded upon the thought of a man named Lao Tzu (although there are many who believe this man is purely a mythical figure). In reality, while Taoism can be viewed in terms of religious practice, it is essentially more of a system of philosophical thought. It is based on a few simple principles which include the belief that there is a kind of universal 'life-forc e' that is inherent in all things. Therefore, respecting and caring for all things is a vital element within this system, and individuals are duly encouraged not to use force but should rather be prepared to compromise and have faith in more natural forces. 2 Around a century later, Confucius (551-479 B.C) reacted somewhat against the teachings of Taoism and set about creating his own system that became known as Confucianism. Again, it can be argued that this system, while it is generally considered as a Religion of China, is in reality more focused on both political and social morality. Nevertheless, Confucianism was to become enormously influential, especially during the Han Dynasty that ruled from 206 B.C. until 220 A.D. In simple terms, this doctrine asserts that people should remain faithful to both their rulers and their Gods and that humbly carrying out their duties is the way to peace and happiness. Let us now move across the map and look at the religious views of Ancient Gr eece. In fact, the original motivation behind the religious views of the Ancient Greeks lay in a reaction against the 'gloomy' religion of Ancient Egypt. In addition, we find there is a fundamental difference between the religion of Greece and many others (including the above Religions of China) and that is the fact that it was not founded by any one figure and had neither sacred scriptures nor system of priestly hierarchies. The religious views of this country were in fact not limited to faith or belief but were rather focused on incorporating a positive practice into the quotidian life of its inhabitants. This is mainly due to the fact that the Greek gods were largely based on the image of man, and were little different with regards to character from man himself. For certain, the gods were seen as both stronger and more intelligent than mere mortals, but neither holy nor omnipotent. Therefore, man was regarded as their spiritual equal. 3 In particular, the people of Ancient Greece are said to have taken great joy in participating in the practice of looking into the future and thereby attempting to predict its outcome. For this reason the so-called 'oracles' were both much revered and respected. Of all the known oracles, the oracle known as Delphi was said to be the most revered of all. Delphi was in fact considered to be something of a 'center' for the earth and thus was consulted often with regards to matters of earthly significance. In fact, the

Friday, August 23, 2019

Case summary Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Case summary - Assignment Example Despite its success in early periods of operation, LEGO faced some internal issues which jeopardized its competitiveness in the market. Between 1998 and 2004, the company registered massive revenue loss linked to inefficient manufacturing and distribution systems of the company. The management ignored production costs, which led to high volume of wastes. The company has developed a complex operation mechanism, courtesy of its many operating years. This only meant an increase in operation costs associated with its supply chain and production sections. There are a multiple issues facing LEGO, which need strategic planning in order to overcome. First, the company faces stiff competition from other companies entering the building toy industry. Some companies even manufactured plastic bricks products attuned to LEGO’s products. The situation worsened in 1988 when the company’s plastic design patent expired, reducing competition barrier in the industry. Second, acquisitions, for example Disney acquired Marvel Entertainment increasing the pressure of competition on LEGO. Third, legal battles also threatened the company’s efficiency. Court fights with other companies such as MEGA Brands over trademark registration resulted into massive loss for the

Tony Kushner's Angels in America Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Tony Kushner's Angels in America - Essay Example play who has been infected by AIDS and this thinking is reflected when he "feels dirty" as if his heart is "pumping polluted blood." as he is seen to be hallucinating in his struggle with the "angels" as to the reason Earth has been cursed by Aids.(Kushner,P.34) and his deteriorating condition finds him being drawn to "cosmologieswith no judgment, no guilt, or responsibility" (p,42).The play has heavy undertones of Angelic symbolism originating from the traditional religious systems which is so characteristic of the sociological magnum opuses of the likes of Emile Durkheim and Peter Berger. The play demonstrates the rise and re-rise of Angel Imagery in the America of the nineties. In "Angels in America, Roy Cohn ,another character of the play who says the classic dialogue just after being told by his doctor that he too has AIDS (Cadden, 1995). when he states ,'Homosexuals are not men who sleep with other men,' Cohn says. 'Homosexuals are men who in fifteen years of trying cannot get a pissant antidiscrimination bill through City Council. Homosexuals are men who know nobody and who nobody knows. Who have zero clout. Does this sound like me'" (Kushner: 2003:45). This dialogue shows the how the irrational hatred, disapproval, or fear of homosexuality, gay and lesbian people, or their culture manifests itself in an internalized way especially with in the ideals of people like Cohn as he blasts the minority for their lack of power and marginalization in the society and ends of hating them as a whole. Yet another of Kushner' endlessly provocative and rich thematic concerns manifest themselves in one of the main relationships in the play between Joe Pitt and his wife, Harper. As a young Republican Mormon he is a close friend of Roy Cohn, who is also Joe's surrogate father. And their conversations about the changing American culture reflect the events post 9/11 showing the heaving political over tones of this drama. All in all Kushner's highest achievement in this play is his success in dramatizing the difference of opinion within America's so called "melting pot culture" and ability to juggle comedy and tragedy up till the point when Cohn dies in agony; and Joe and Harper are left alone showing some home for their future. The Play has not however always received a positive response, and had to go through varying amounts of political and literary attack and people has objected the play's portrayal of Gay people as "martyrs" and largely condemned as an attack on American Value's particularly by the religious community. Although the supporters of the play were not just amongst the gay community but the admirers came from all sections of the community based upon its moving depiction of the pain suffered by AIDS victims. The last scene of the play (Part 1-Millenium Approaches) shows an Angel which breaks through the ceiling of Prior Walter's room in the hospital and there is a message which says

Thursday, August 22, 2019

Home Depot and Lowes Essay Example for Free

Home Depot and Lowes Essay Case Summary Value Line Publishing analyst, Carrie Galeotafiore had followed the retail building-supply industry for approximately three years. Within a week the investment-survey firm will be publishing Galeotafiore’s quarterly findings on the industry along with the five-year financial forecast for the industry’s leaders, Home Depot and Lowe’s. In an effort to increase their top and bottom-lines, Home Depot and Lowe’s have implemented strategies like improving customer service, attracting professional customers, and introducing a more favorable merchandise mix. Combined sales from the two companies accounted for more than a third of the industry’s sales. In the mean time, smaller hardware stores struggled to remain in the game. Galeotafiore reports shows confidence in the methods Home Depot deployed to achieve their goals and attributed Lowe’s margin expansion to their thrust into the major metropolitan markets. This case will mainly focus on the strategic issues involved with Home Depot and Lowe’s, the industry trends, the financial outlook for the respective companies, and whether or not Galeotafiore has the depth of knowledge and experience to make a correct call on the companies’ performance.Finally, the report will be substantiated with financial ratios comparing one company with the other, showing possible alternatives and proposing recommendations. Case Analysis This segment will narrow down the major issues of the case, along with the quantitative perspective showing historical trends and the projected level of economic activity. In 2001, the Economist Intelligenc Unit (EIU) estimated the retail building-supply industry to be approximately $175 billion with stores similar to Home Depot and Lowe’s capturing one third of the 51% of sales in their category. Despite the slump in the economy in 2001, growth was at 4.2% which representd a decline from 7.7% in 1998. Strategic issues for Home Depot and Lowe’s Home Depot’s CEO, Bob Nardelli’s goal was to increase their margin through declining cost in product review, opening more tool-rental centers and improving purchasing aspects. All of the above were an effort to remain  competitive. Galeotafiore stated in her report that stores which provide programs similar to the Service Performance Improvement offered by Home Depot tend to fear better in operating margins, inventory turnover and productivity, than the do-it-yourself establishments. Jefferies’ analyst Donald Trott downgraded Lowe’s, due to a declining housing-market bubble and, based on an opinion that their stock price was richly valued compared to Home Depot’s. However, on the brighter side, Lowe’s management told analysts that over the next two years, it expected to maintain sales growth between 18% and 19% and over the next three years from 2002 to 2004 it is expected to open 123, 130 and 140 stores respectively entering metropolitan m arkets with populations over 500,000 like the Boston and New York markets.

Wednesday, August 21, 2019

Enhancements of IC Engines in Real-world Conditions

Enhancements of IC Engines in Real-world Conditions   Aatif Shaik, Aditya Upadhyaya R, Gowtham,  K N, Sachin B N Abstract – Optimizing engine performance of IC Engines is a very shady field. Other than reputed companies Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), who publish their reports, the rest of the industry does not throw much light into aftermarket modification field. As an end-user, a customer wanting to optimize his vehicle in terms of power, mileage usability is often mislead into buying products modifying his automobile that will produce no useful gains. This mini-project will be done on 2-wheeler motorcycles ranging from 150cc-350cc. It aims at bridging the gap between the products and the end-user’s knowledge of it. It will take on many such optimizing/modifying techniques, such as installing air-filters, spark plugs, exhaust systems, engine oils etc., and try to demystify what is actually happening there for the use of the said end-user. This mini-project will involve testing of various parameters of an engine, such as Brake Horse Power, Torque, Exhaust Emissions, Inlet Manifold Pressure etc., of a completely stock Engine. It is again tested after modifications for the same parameters. The results are then compared to give an outline of the effect of the modification. Each modification is done separately for the results to be completely independent of each other. All of the tests are conducted in real-world conditions, so as to ensure the reliability of the result. The final report (end of the project work) will give a much needed clarity on the modifications; will also comment on the safety of using such techniques and its cost effectiveness for the end-user. Market Situation – In a stock motorcycle (factory-made, unmodified), it is so designed that the whole system is as generic as possible. That is, it is supposed to be appropriate for a wide-band of end-users. Taking this line, the manufacturers tune down most of the engine parameters in favour of mileage fuel efficiency, as these are the two major parameters that an end-user looks while buying the automobile. As time passes, the user, who now is accustomed to the automobile, might feel the need to enhance and optimize his automobile. He therefore researches about all the modifications that he can do to his automobiles, so as to increase the performance and efficiency. Parameters for testing – Power produced (at the wheels) Torque produced (at the wheels) Fuel efficiency These parameters were chosen because of the following reasons – Power produced at the wheel was taken, instead of engine power, because this gives an accurate idea of how the motorcycle will perform in the real world. It also includes the losses that will occur due to external conditions, and therefore will give a realistic feel to the test. Torque produced at the wheel was taken, instead of engine torque, because of the same reasons as above, that is, it will give an accurate idea of performance in the real world. Fuel efficiency is an obvious factor and a parameter to be considered, as most endusers will ultimately look at this for their decisions. It gives an indication of how well the engine is taking the modifications and will also represent whether the modification done is cost-effective or not. Specifications of modifications used – Results – Air filter modification For load testing, there is a 1.11sec difference in acceleration timings, in partial load conditions. Whereas, there is a 1.24sec difference in acceleration timings with full load condition. In both cases, the modified motorcycle’s timings were better. For the crispness of throttle, it was seen that the modified setup has a better crispness than the stock setup. For initial fuel efficiency, it was seen that the stock setup fared better than the modified setup. For the cold starting test, it was seen that there is no difference between stock and modified setup. Dyno test Synthetic Oil modification – For load testing, there is a 2.25sec difference in acceleration timings, in partial load conditions. Whereas, there is a 2.17sec difference in acceleration timings with full load condition. In both cases, the modified motorcycle’s timings were better. For the crispness of throttle, it was seen that the modified setup has a relatively better crispness than the stock setup. For initial fuel efficiency, it was seen that the stock setup fared better than the modified setup. For the cold starting test, the stock setup fared badly, whereas the modified setup. Dyno Test – Exhaust Muffler modification For load testing, there is a 2.1sec difference in acceleration timings, in partial load conditions. Whereas, there is a 1.65sec difference in acceleration timings with full load condition. In both cases, the modified motorcycle’s timings were better. For the crispness of throttle, it was seen that the modified setup has an extremely good crispness when compared to the stock setup. For initial fuel efficiency, it was seen that the stock setup fared better than the modified setup. For the cold starting test, it was seen that there is no difference between stock and modified setup. Dyno Test – Discussions – Air Filter – The modified setup performed better than the stock setup, because of the extra amount of air going into the engine cylinder. This allowed the fuelinjected to calibrate and add more fuel to the air-fuel mixture, thereby gaining power. In the modified setup, as there is no restriction, aside from the filter material, the engine was free to suck air to its maximum capabilities, allowing the fuel-injection system to inject more fuel, thereby increasing power and torque. This is seen as the constant increase throughout the power-band. The crispness of throttle was better in modified setup because the lesser obstruction in the intake system, which allowed air to be sucked in freely. Cold-starting was not affected because of the fuel-injected system, which automatically calibrates the appropriate amount of fuel to be injected in all conditions. Synthetic Oil – The modified setup performed better than the stock setup, as the synthetic oil gives better lubrication than the stock setup. This is due to the inherent nature of the synthetic oil, which provides better lubrication and wear-resistance throughout all temperatures with respect to stock mineral oil. The crispness of throttle was better in modified setup because the lesser friction, which allowed that engine to rev freely and quickly. Due to greater lubrication, lesser friction was present, thus minimizing friction losses, which attributed to the higher power and torque output in the modified setup. Cold-starting was better in modified setup, as the inherent nature of the oil made less viscous allowing it to start freely and quickly, compared to stock setup. The synthetic oil also kept the engine temperature lower than the stock setup, thus further helping it to work efficiently. Exhaust Muffler – The modified setup performed better than the stock setup, as the free-flow exhaust muffler allowed the exhaust gases to flow out more freely than the stock setup. This allowed the piston to have lesser load on it to push the gases out, therefore giving a higher power and torque output. This can be seen in the consistent increase in power and torque from 3500rpm. As the load on the piston decreased, the engine was allowed rotate freely, thus giving it a more free nature, whereas the stock setup constricted the engine very much. The crispness of throttle was better in modified setup, because of the free flowing gases in the exhaust system, which allowed that engine to push more and more gases out for the same rpm. Cold-starting was not much different compared to stock setup, as the starting depended on initial air-fuel mixture temperature, which doesn’t get affected by this modification. Final Conclusion – It depends on the end-user on whether he wants to do certain modifications. From the results and discussions, we can see a general increase in performance for all the modifications used, provided those are done under correct procedures. These results were fairly satisfying, and also laid to rest some of the general misconceptions that were attached to such modifications. Apart from power enhancing, the mini-project also tried to bridge the gap between the aftermarket modifications and the customer’s knowledge of it. Dealing with how the actual results of how a modification might work-out and whether their claims were correct. It is concluded that the manufacturer’s claims of increasing power and performance which are indeed true, But the manufacturer also claims increase in mileage which is not true since it comes with of a small drop of mileage. If the end-user can adjust with the drop, then they can find the modifications useful. References Effect of Intake air filter condition on vehicle fuel economy. By Kevin Norman, Shean Huff, Brian West United States Department of Energy. Synthetics vs Mineral Oils By A Jackson Exhaust Tuning on 4 stroke Engine; experimentation simulation By Gordon P Blair, D.O Mackey , G.F Chatfield Society of Automobile Engineers Internal Combustion Engines MIT Open Courseware Professor. Wai Cheng

Tuesday, August 20, 2019

Problems Faced by Starbucks in India

Problems Faced by Starbucks in India Jump to: SWOT Analyis of Starbucks  | PEST Analysis of Starbucks Starbucks Coffee Company has gone through some major makeovers throughout its existence. Starbucks was initially a small entrepreneurial business partnership, which sold only roasted coffee beans, tea, and spices. Later on, Starbucks took on a director by the name of Howard Schultz, who had great vision for the company, but whose ideas were rejected. Schultz went on to later purchase the corporation and grow it to what we now know as one of the largest and most loved coffee chains in the country. Having expanded into several other countries, such as Canada, Japan, and China, Starbucks yearned to step foot in the Indian market and leave its footprint there. However, this invasion would not be as easy as they had hoped. Case 7: Starbucks Coffee Company Founded in 1971 by Gordon Bowker, Jerry Baldwin, and Zez Siegel, Starbucks was simply a place for consumers to purchase high quality, dark roasted, whole coffee beans. As is the coffee addiction trend, this was a popular investment for the partners. The business did very well and had expanded to five retail outlets within ten years. In 1982, Howard Schultz joined the company as the director of Retail Operations and Marketing. While on a business trip in Milan, Italy, he had an epiphany. Fresh brewed coffee was not limited to households, as Milan alone had 1,500 coffee bars. He wished to expand Starbucks to sell freshly brewed coffee as well, and to bring the coffee bar experience of Italy home to the states and to Starbucks clientele. Schultz suggestions were shot down, pushing him to leave the company and give life to his visions on his own. Having worked out many initially neglected concepts, his coffee bar, Il Giornale, became a huge success, reaching around $500,000 annual sales by mid 1987 and having attained three locations, one of which was opened in Canada. Current Situation In 2006, Schultz announced Starbucks intent to expand into the countries of Russia and India. Indias conditions for market entry were pretty favorable, and it seemed like a great time to make their move. The population is high and the majority of the population is youthful and is expected to remain youthful for years to come. It has become a place for many companies to outsource production and services, and is simply all around a great opportunity. However, there are also constraining factors for economic growth. Yet when the government announced permission, per their approval and certain restrictions, for Foreign Direct Investment in retail trade of single brand products, several chains announced their intentions to take advantage of this opportunity. Current Performance Starbucks coffee houses serviced, entertained, and provided a cultural atmosphere to over 40 million customers in its 7,600 retail locations in the United States alone. Starbucks entered markets regions at daily rates through a strategic plan that phenomenally gained success in China, Asia, and Japan becoming the leader in specialty coffee around the world. By the end of 2006 and with careful environmentally scanning through strategic measures based on the objectives, mission, and having a vision for the Starbucks brand, Starbucks entered joint ventures, partnerships, and market segments which increased its sales to over 300% reaching $103 million in 2 years; that is, from 1990 to 1992. Starbucks offers an assortment and well desired variety of premium coffee fitted to the cultures of its retail outlet locations. Despite the intense competition Starbucks next destination was to reach into the market segments of India and Russia; however, many economic, technological, political-legal, and socio-cultural factors existed. Starbucks faced constraints of encompassing the productions of its high quality premium coffee beans at the risk of distributions and control of workers well-being, and its established trade relationships. Corporate Governance . Having seen the accuracy of his visions in his own coffee bars, Schultz decided to purchase the assets, including the company name, of Starbucks when they became available for sale in 1987. He refaced his Il Giornale stores to Starbucks stores, and promised his investors growth. Schultz then began his journey to take over the world, several Starbucks locations at a time. In 1992, after seeing drastic growth over the past three years, the corporation went public, raising $29 million from their Initial Public Offering. Schultz then went on to dominate the U.S. market with the companys high quality products and services. After having taken over the market, the company began working on new products as well. Initially, Schultz refused to franchise the company name for fear that he would lose the business model he had worked so hard to build. He wanted to ensure that customers everywhere received the same quality, experience, knowledge, and service during their visit no matter what location they walked in to. Even partnerships were closely examined and evaluated before receiving approval. Corporations had to be reputable and value the Starbucks name and image if they wished to serve the brand. Current Performance. Since the inception of Starbucks after being purchased by Schultz, the corporation has been growing rapidly and successfully in North America. In 1994, the company was formed into Starbucks International, wishing to expand its footprint to other countries. The company had three goals in mind: prevent competition from gaining the lead in other countries, benefit from the high number of coffee drinkers in other populations, and build on the growing demand for Western brands. Starbucks began opening international locations in 1996. Having done their homework, Starbucks saw great opportunity in Japan, as it was a rapidly growing market for coffee, especially specialty coffee, and chose that as their first targeted location. The company continued to grow into other countries and dominate markets well into the early 2000s. Japan is the companys largest revenue source outside of North America, and the chain continues to thrive in all the countries it occupies. Strategic Posture . Starbucks has announced their intention to enter the Indian market numerous times now. In order to enter the market successfully and strongly, and with the intent to remain there for years to come, they need to find a trustworthy, competent partner. The company is still working on finding that partner, in which they can put their trust, to hold true to the Starbucks name and brand. Although the Indian market is a great opportunity, the company holds its values and business model to be more important. Starbucks has made efforts to stay green by using recycled cups, and even revamping the menu to include healthier selections. They have formed Starbucks Entertainment, are planning to publish books, and coming up with new ideas on a regular basis. Schultz is dead serious about taking his company Hollywood and beyond (Horovitz, 2006). Schultz has worked hard to build and grow his brand. Therefore, they will not partner with simply anyone. Discussion Within the industry markets that Starbucks faces is a problem reflected by the absence of empowerment and the responsibility of co-operative structures that go beyond the global supply chains engaged in shared responsibilities within poorer countries. Starbucks faced a dilemma regarding the well-being of its workers where constraints of resources, health concern, and fair trade agreements rested on the consumers buying decision to buy fair trade products. There seems to be big plans in the making for corporate conglomerates with no real social responsibilities and only strategic maneuvering; yet, Starbucks marketing mechanism was not through the media but by word of mouth which was a far reach into the homes and lives of those who consumed not just coffee or tea but Starbucks coffee. Starbucks coffee now left with its very own strategy and vision embraced by a coffee culture is threatened in a market that has to contend with its workers and its coffee producers well-being and earmark ed by threats of market-based sanctions in the form of reputational damage (MacDonald, 2007) if it failed to comply with activist demands regarding health concerns and economic governance. What are the strengths and weaknesses of Starbucks International? What are the opportunities and threats facing Starbucks? SWOT ANALYSIS Strengths #1 specialty coffee retailer 11,000 stores in 36 countries w/ 10,000 employees 40 Million customers weekly Uncompromising quality, customer service and relationships (captured social aspect of coffee) Knowledge ( advice in brewing) Sophisticated Store development (6-mo. opening schedule) Expansion strategy (20 more stores 1st 2 yrs) Took advantage of higher coffee consumption rates in other countries Used joint ventures and licenses to enter foreign marketsWeakness Product pricing Large Company (quick to expand) Weaknesses Too many stores in the same radius Cultural issues (Japan food coffee), no smoking High cost (Rent labor) No In house facilities (Roasting) Less control of stores on US soil Tea drinking countries opposed coffee Opportunities Starbucks to offer the finest coffee in the world to India within the next 18 months. Starbucks had an awesome image, more than offering fine coffee, great music, great people, a comfortable/upbeat meeting place, and sound advice on brewing at home. Made locations in high-traffic (e.g. Malls, busy street corners, and grocery stores) Starbucks strategically gained a foothold in the market it entered and quickly moved on to the next market. Starbucks became the leading player in Boston overnight Starbucks was able to build a plan to open stores daily. Threats Starbucks postponed entry into India in the face of problems in Japan and recently entered China Japan originally a tea drinking country, with a per capita consumption of coffee in 1965 of 300g/day Starbucks was opening stores too close to each other which affected their brand image Starbucks gained intense competition who took advantage by including elaborate food menus, and had separate smoking areas. Japan had high rent and cost of labor China was traditionally a tea drinking company Opportunities (continuation): Much like China, India has traditionally been a tea culture, yet a growing coffee culture is emerging, among the countrys young adults. Starbucks did joint ventures, licensing, and partnerships internationally. Joint Ventures helped to get their name out there with a reputable company already doing business there for years so they have the know-how when it comes to the customers of that region and their demands Threats (continuation): China had inadequate infrastructure, bureaucracy, regulatory and foreign investment controls, the reservation of key products for small scale industries, and high fiscal deficits constrained economic growth in India India was the largest producer and consumer of tea Starbucks faced the challenge of the increasing obesity rate in India. Starbucks was the target of consumer health groups against high-calorie and high fat products which led to obesity, heart disease and cancer What are the strategic factors facing Starbucks? PEST Analysis The strategic factors facing Starbucks is maintaining its identity while pursuing its product reach within the international markets where its premium prices for its products are served in poorer countries. Political and Legal factors:  Starbucks sought after potential joint venture partnerships in India and Russia. To prepare for the interpersonal business relationships, partnerships and future business endeavors, Starbucks sought to acquire a competitive intelligent strategy by gathering key information such as scouting locations and meeting with government officials prior to entering these markets to fully gain the additional market knowledge required for its success. Government actions impacted Starbucks as a challenge with exchange control, trade agreements, trademarks, and other foreign regulations all of which protected the working farmers and their rights. Economic Factors: The Starbucks product and service offerings allowed in Japan were twice that much in the United States and yet Starbucks incurred huge losses due to the surmounting consumption of the Japanese intake of its gourmet and premium priced coffees. In 1997 alone Starbucks opened 10 stores in prime locations; thereafter, Starbucks reined with profits from the 3.17 grams of coffee consumption per day allowing in 2002 Starbucks to open well over 360 stores. The strategy Starbucks initialized in its mission, objectives, and vision to be a success was to be the first to move to get a head start on the competition; however, analysis indicated that Starbucks cultural and high traffic locations were too close to one another and the socio-cultural aspect this affected the Starbucks brand image. Starbucks coffee entered new markets with new leadership that recognized the culture, history, and quality behind premium coffee; however, the no-smoking policy, high rent, and cost of labor in Japan posed great challenges to Starbucks. Starbucks incurred additional losses with the exchange of materials. Starbucks only offered India ground roasted premium coffee beans, Japan did not have a roasting facility; therefore, Starbucks paid additional shipping costs to allow shipment of its coffee from its roasting facility in Kent to Japan. Socioeconomical Factors: The vision imposed by Mr. Schultz, the new owner of Starbucks, no longer wanted coffee to be sold as a produce but instead wanted the Starbucks coffee to reach into the heart and soul of its consumers. The coffee consumption rates in different international markets such as in the Asian markets where coffee market is in the development stage, Starbucks faced the challenge of having to educate the market and future consumers about the quality of coffee, the experience, and the idea of coffee away from health concerns. Pricing decisions in India posed a great challenge to Starbucks due to the increase in disposable income and economic situations that affected their idea about coffee which included: Shifts in demographics and social trends such as the age of the coffee consumer. The obesity rates which have an impact on corporate responsibility programs. Competitive disadvantages over better service than Starbucks Western style. Technological factors: Maintaining the Starbucks coffee culture without impact to its foreign trade relations impacted the commerce in China many were opposed to the Starbucks culture of a Western coffee chain. In China the traditional consumption of tea was dominant over coffee and preference was made to instant coffee as opposed to the Starbucks premium fresh roasted coffee partly because coffee was mainly for sophisticated urban consumers. Does Starbucks possess a distinctive competency? If yes, does it fit the Indian market? We absolutely believe that Starbucks does possess a distinctive competency. They are the leader in high quality, dark roasted, whole Arabica coffee beans. They also offer such a large variety of flavors. Their extensive product line also appeals to the different tastes of their heterogeneous consumer base. Given that the company has expanded to encompass a lounge, creating a homey feeling, and serve food items as well, the atmosphere is very inviting and welcoming, attracting the variant crowd. The environment Starbucks locations create for the public would mesh extremely well in the Indian market. Coffee consumption in India is growing drastically, although too different likings. The current coffee bars in India provide some similar environments to that of Starbucks, and the ones which are different appear to be simple enough to where Starbucks can meet the needs of the Indian consumers, should it choose to adjust slightly. For example, there is a Garden Cafà ©, and a Cyber Cafà ©, as well as a Highway Cafà ©. If Starbucks wishes to stay competitive and can do so without hurting their current image, they can create similar cafà ©s with the same type of peaceful home away from home environment which they currently strive to achieve. However, simply due to the number of coffee shops in India, and the fact that much of the Indian population has no preference for filtered coffee over instant, it may present a difficult situation for Starbucks to remain competitive as far as pricing, quality, and overall reasons why the consumers should select their brand over the existing ones. During a company conference call on May 3, 2006, Howard Schultz wrapped up his portion of the discussion with a statement of motivation and goal declaration. Looking ahead, the ambition and the level of enthusiasm to continue to grow present us with greater opportunity than ever before. With a long growth trajectory and so much opportunity ahead, we will strive to continue to provide the highest quality products and service and protect our brand and reputation as we innovate and grow into the future (Schultz, 2006). What are the keys to success in Starbucks operating in India? For Starbucks to be successful in India they must concentrate on the home countrys food habits and especially the current and upcoming Indian beverage market. In the United States the Starbucks current menu consist of muffins, yogurts, sandwiches, paninis, cookies and cakes. Though these delicious treats are suffice to the general public from area to area here in the states, the diversity of Indias culture make it thus that dishes are distinctive from one region to another. What we do know is that spicy foods and sweet foods remained popular across the board in India as well as wheats, rice and gravy based dishes. What this means for Starbucks is that certain locations will have to make offerings that are very specific to that region as there is no one size fits all for this culture. If Starbucks were to offer dishes at its locations, they would need to have the food cooked and prepared in a way that was native to the residents. Starbucks would also need to take in account if the locations would be primarily in northern or southern India, as South Indians consume most coffee. Another key to Starbucks success is how they introduce themselves into the Indian beverage market. Similar to the food habits of Indian residents, taste and preferences for beverages is determined by your geographic location. Most Northern Indians are tea drinkers and an occasional coffee drinker; I suggest Starbucks should figure out how to convert those casual drinkers to full time coffee drinkers. The reason being is the growth of quick service chains that is continually expanding in India, in an article by The Economic Times they expressed that the quick-service restaurant market is worth $13 billion and grows roughly 25-30 percent a year and that Indias entire food service market is worth $64 billion (Starbucks, dunkin donuts, 2011). Because of this large amount of growth, Starbucks target market should be the young and the trendy. Indias population has 700 million people who are under the age of 30 which accounts for 60 percent of their population (Starbucks, dunkin donuts, 201 1). For example hometown cafes like Cafà © Coffee Day, Italian Barista and Costa are receiving positive responses from the youth and these cafà ©s are gaining popularity among their group (Mohapatra, 2010). With the consistent growth of the coffee industry at 5 to 6 percent a year (Mohapatra, 2010) I see no reason why Starbucks shouldnt be successful in India if our suggestions are followed. What products does Starbucks offer? Starbucks coffee is an expensive high premium coffee grown from Arabica beans, which accounts for approximately 10% of the total worldwide coffee purchases. The coffees are sold under the Starbucks, Seattles Best Coffee and Torrefazione Italia brands and include: Hot drinks: Venti, Grande, Tall, and Short and Cold drinks: Iced Venti, Iced Grande, Iced Tall, and Frappucino to name a few. Starbucks Coffees: Regular, Decaffeinated, Starbucks VIA (ready brew French roast), Starbucks Reserve (exotic, rare, and exquisite coffees), Coffee from mild to extra bold. Starbucks international: Starbucks Latin American, Africa Arabia, Asia Pacific, Multi-Regional, Specialty, Organic, Whole Bean, and Ground coffees, syrups, and powered blends. Starbucks Beijing offered coffee beverages, 15 varieties and blends of the finest Arabica coffee beans, fresh baked pastries and desserts. Starbucks Japan included an elaborate food menu. Starbucks offers coffee pods, filter packs, portion packs, and instant coffee products. Starbucks offers coffee gifts, gift boxes, gift packs, brewing equipment, drink-ware including espresso machines, coffee makers, coffee presses, grinders, teakettles, teapots and accessories including gift cards and delivery of its products. Starbucks stores also offered fresh pastries and sandwiches. (Japan) Are circumstances appropriate at this time for Starbucks to successfully enter into the Indian market? I believe that circumstances are appropriate for Starbucks to successfully enter into India. With a newly signed agreement with Tata and a growing young adult generation, Starbucks can have a strong impact on the coffee market in India. Starbucks remain rooted to its core beliefs and objectives if it is going to succeed in India. The agreement with Tata, a gold medal Robusta coffee producer, shows that Starbucks is not abandoning its premium and rich culture. It will continue to produce its tasteful and premium coffee to the India urban community. Indias population is also one of the youngest in the world. According to a study by 2020 the average age of an Indian person would be 29 years old. This young generation will help shift the country from a primary based tea drinking company to more of a coffee based country. This younger generation in India also has a taste for Western culture. Starbucks is a strong Western company that can have a strong impact in India.   Starbucks will face challenges with coffee competitors that have made their imprint on the Indian community. These competitors are Cafà © Coffee Day, Qwikys, and Barista. Starbucks still has competitive western advantage when compared to these other competitors. Their prices are also said to be in line with its competitors, giving Starbucks a chance to succeed.  To enter the Indian market successfully they must understand that the Indian people are focused on leading a healthy lifestyle. Starbucks high calorie, fat products will pose a challenge of successfully entering the market. With good management and a strong strategic plan, Starbucks can successfully conquer these challenges in India. The Indian market is growing and Starbucks has the culture and product to succeed. What are the 3 reasons that Starbucks International pursues international expansion? Starbucks International pursues international expansion with the sole desire to recreate the Italian coffee culture with these important variables in mind. To take on its competition early on from gaining a head start in international markets. To build upon its growing desire for the Western brands To benefit from the higher coffee consumption rates in different countries. Monitored Trends in the International Society and International Natural Environments Political-Legal: Environmental protection laws, foreign trade regulations, stability of government, attitudes towards foreign companies, tax laws, and anti-trust regulations impacts the governance and the strategies preempted by Starbucks. Economic: GDP, Inflation rates, Wage/Price controls, Disposable and discretionary income of international markets reflects consumer demands and sales. Sociocultural: Lifestyle changes, rate of family formation, growth rate of population, age distribution of population, health care, living wage, and unionization. Technological: Total industry spending for RD, focus of technology efforts, patent protection, new products, and environmental awareness standards that would allow for better management of crops, more efficient farming, reduction in cost, increase yields, and decrease environmental impact. 8b. Are each of these criteria met in the Indian Market? Yes, these 3 criteria are met in the Indian market. Since there are only three big name coffee spots in India, Starbucks is acting early before other coffee companies in North America or Europe mimic their idea of entering the Indian market. Many retail giants are entering India at this time, it is important that Starbucks enters to get a head start on the competition. By entering now Starbucks may obtain certain locations that are likely to be profitable before competitors or other retail giants acquire the space.   Since Western brands are popular among the younger generation in India, Starbucks has met this criterion in the Indian market. With one of the youngest populations in the world, the Indian market will see an increased demand for Western products by this generation. Starbucks comfortable atmosphere and it ambiance of an extended family will make coffee more beloved in the Indian market if they choose to enter. Coffee consumption has also seen a steady rise recently . In 2005 coffee consumption in India jumped to 85,000 tons. Starbucks is hopeful that this consumption will steadily increase over the years. If they enter the market now they have a strong chance of succeeding. With the increased consumption of coffee in this primarily tea-based country, the Indian market has met Starbucks International criteria of benefiting from a growing coffee consumption rate.

Monday, August 19, 2019

Crime And Punishment In Wuthering Heights Essay -- essays research pap

The complex and furious creation of Emily Brontà «, Wuthering Heights is a powerful novel that fiercely combines many of the greatest themes in literature, such as love and its intricacies, revenge and the its terrible effects, and the contrasts between nature and society. One of the most prevalent themes in this celebrated work is that of crime and punishment, or sin and retribution. One character in particular, Heathcliff, stands apart as a conduit for both of these, es-pecially his sins. His past crimes, both worldly and metaphysical, coincide with his punishments.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Heathcliff, to some, began life as a crime. His foster brother Hindley shunned him as a reject from society while viewing Heathcliff’s very existence a grievous crime, particularly because Mr. Earnshaw’s love and affection were displaced towards Heathcliff instead of himself. Far later in the novel, this terrible attitude backfires upon Hindley, who is misused and cheated out of ownership of Wuthering Heights by Heathcliff. This crime parallels another: Heathcliff’s abhorrent abuse of both Hindley in his weakened state and Hindley’s son Hareton, who is made the stablehand instead of the rightful owner of the Heights. Heathcliff also trespassed when he imprisoned Catherine upon her visits to his son Linton. He coerced her into marrying Linton while her own father was dying, and so gained ownership of Thrushcross Grange as well as the Heights. &...

Sunday, August 18, 2019

Educational Philosophy :: Philosophy of Education Teaching Essays

Educational Philosophy For some, it is an occupation – a means of earning a living. For others, it is a skill performed with great ability and proficiency. What is it? It is teaching. Teaching, as defined by Webster’s New World Dictionary, is to â€Å"show or help (a person) to learn (how) to do something; to provide with knowledge, insight, etc.†(Webster’s, p. 605). Since the beginning of civilization, teaching has encompassed people’s lives. Building on the knowledge learned from his beloved teacher, Socrates, Plato created his own school to encourage others in their pursuit of knowledge. Even though the styles and philosophies of teaching have changed greatly since 2000B.C., the concept of an ideal teacher remains the same. Excellent educators inspire their students to reach for the stars. Our public education system in West Virginia is due to the valiant efforts of our forefathers. Fighting for a training arrangement applicable to ALL students, these pioneers provided the groundwork from which we have expounded. Our ancestors appreciated the importance of an adequate education, and now, it is our responsibility as present and future educators to continue the tradition. Providing equal and superb instruction to all students should be the number one priority for us teachers. Public educators have the greatest opportunity – to touch a child’s life for the better. As a public school teacher, I would set the expectations for my students at ceiling level, but then provide them with the ladder and walk them through each wrung to ensure accomplishment. I want to instill in my students that each child has the capacity for success (keeping in mind that each person has his own definition for success) and a lifelong thirst for knowledge. Children are like clothing. Some are â€Å"ironed† and â€Å"clean† from a childhood of love and true nurturing. Some are â€Å"wrinkled† and â€Å"worn† from a childhood of abuse and neglect. Some appear â€Å"irregular† as a result of a handicap or disability. Sadly, many are â€Å"labeled†, whether positively or negatively, before they complete their years in school.

Saturday, August 17, 2019

Causes and Effects of Stress in Daily Life Essay

Causes and Effects of Stress in Daily Life Stress comes from many different things and is the cause of many problems in a person’s life. There are different type of stress that mostly people experienced in there lives. The Acute, episodic and chronic stress. Each of this stress has a different types of characteristics, symptoms and treatment. Mostly people suffer from acute stress and experienced a perceived threat either physical, emotional or psychological that can cause our body to experiences and increased the levels of hormones and to increase the heart rate, breathing and higher blood pressure. Episodic stress is more severe type of acute stress. This type of stress is often more difficult to diagnose. Mostly people suffer from this type of stress experience symptoms everyday. The most common symptoms are headaches such as migraines, tension, being irritable, feeling anxious or even pain in the chest. According to Benjamin H. Gottlieb, Chronic stress is often defined by continuing the possibility or expectation of potential harm. The most common sources of stress in people’s life are often categorized like Death of spouse, family or friends. Health, crime, sexual problems, alcohol or drug abuse or inancial, and the life changing, for instance the divorce, separation, marriage or new baby. Argument with spouse, family member, friends, co-workers or boss. Physical changes to include lack of sleep, new work place and hours and the demands of the job and relationship with co-workers, new responsibilities and to understand the roles and regulations of the new Job and the support that there getting to a co- workers or supervisors. A lot of people suffers stress from the work place. to include the lack of feedback on the performance, poor communication with their own teams , orking long hours and uncomfortable work place. The general causes of stress that most common of people experienced are physical threat, social threat and financial threat. In particular it will be worsen when the person feels they have no response that can reduce the threat, the need and sense of control. When a person dealing with stress it can become fear that leads to imagined the outcomes. Uncertainty, unable to predict , and feeling not in control and lastly feeling being cognitive dissonance. It occurs when they cannot meet the commitments and being perceived as incapable and dishonest.

An Analysis Of Cousin Kate And The Seduction Essay

The title sounds like a woman is talking about her â€Å"Cousin Kate† and not especially about herself. It’s like her side of the story in the poem. The poem is about a lady in about the 1814 (the olden times). She falls in love with a rich person who sounds like the king which says here â€Å"Why did a great lord find me out† and then he flatters and uses her to the point where she is pregnant and has a child. This part from the poem shows that a rich person or so a king found her and abused her when she thought he really truly loved her but no he did not. â€Å"He changed me like a glove†. Then she praises her cousin about her looks and her wealth too. She says â€Å"You grew more fair I:† †¦ â€Å"Because you so good and pure† She then talks bout how true her love was and Kate’s wasn’t and she wants to spit in her ex lords face because she did not like him for his money or his land just because it was true love. â€Å"O cousin Kate my love was true, And your love was writ in sand:† This tells us that the Lord probably chose her cousin Kate because she was beautiful and because she was from a wealthy family and not then narrator because she says she was not that wealthy †¦ â€Å"Call me an outcast thing, Even so I sit an howl in dust†Ã¢â‚¬ ¦ At then she goes on to talking about her son which I think she had mentioned before in the poem were it says â€Å"So now I moan, an unclean thing† as if she did not want a child but now I think she is pleased with having a special gift which is her child and then she goes on to saying that her cousin Kate will never get what she has got because she never destined to get it. It says in the poem â€Å"I’ve got a gift you have not got, And seem not like to get: †¦ I’ve little doubt you fret. My fair haired son my shame, my pride† †¦ So she does not regret anything that has happened. She criticises her sister a little throughout the poem and is always saying she made a mistake but she got the best out of it like her fair headed son. Seduction means to seduce which means to lead astray and then tempt them into a sin or crime which the whole poem is based on. The poem is about a girl who gets persuaded by a handsome boy that he is the one for her and she can trust him fully. In the poem it says â€Å"She had nodded, quite enchanted† †¦ â€Å"so she fell in love† so she thinks that he has chosen her or she is the one for him. Later in this poem she finds out that she is 3 months gone in other terms three months pregnant with her x boyfriend’s baby. â€Å"When she discovered she was three months gone† She is frightened and very scared and the poem tells â€Å"And realised, for once, that she was truly truly frightened† She hates her life so much that she would rather take drugs than live in this hell that she has made by herself trusting some boy she had met at the party. She tells us that she wants to take drugs by â€Å"But then again better to be smoking scented drugs†¦Ã¢â‚¬  From that moment on her life lead her into a totally different path. She talks about her bright and colourful past which she can remember very clearly and wants to go back where she was with her friends in different places lie Blackpool by saying â€Å"Where were the glossy photographs of summer, Day trips to Blackpool, jumping all the rides?† so that’s why she wants to go back into her lively past. This poem shows how life can be sometimes and that you can never trust it. It shows her experiences with a lovely, gorgeous boy (what she thinks of him) and after how she is completely shattered. â€Å"With fingers that stroked her neck and thighs†Ã¢â‚¬ ¦ to â€Å"she cried that she had missed all her innocence around her† so that shows you what the narrator felt and was like from her past to her present. This poem might make boys seem bad and horrible but all boys are normally not like that and that girls always fall into a trap but sometimes they don’t from what it says in the poem like â€Å"All the parties where you’d meet the boy next door, Where you walk hand in hand, in an acne’d wonderland,†Ã¢â‚¬ ¦ This shows that she remembers the past and its like she cusses it and that she doesn’t want it to happen again like its going to happen again.

Friday, August 16, 2019

Noodle Express Business Proposal Essay

1. Overview of the Business Noodle Express is a noodle shop that offers Healthy Noodles. All the ingredients are prepared fresh and ready to cook. The noodles contain protein, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals. The way we prepare the noodles is different from the usual way on how it is prepared here in the Philippines. The idea of this is originated from a noodle shop in Thailand. We serve noodles on the spot while the customers observe and wait for the food they have ordered to be served. The noodles are served fresh and hot to the customers immediately. We don’t use preservatives but we use fresh ingredients in making it. The business follows the Thai vendor that is used in selling noodles to the people. They use mobile stalls to wheel their locations every day. Noodle Express goes to the customers and not them to come to us. We make and serve the noodles as they wait. 2. Target Market Our target market is the people living in small areas. One of the basic needs of a person is food. We cater noodles to the people in any places particularly the low class. Mobile stalls are used to sell noodles to the consumers. Instead of people going to shop to eat, we use mobile stalls for us to go to them. The advantage of our business is that we let customer chose the flavor they want. In Thailand, most of the noodles they are selling are spicy while here in the Philippines, people want a different taste. The noodles benefits for all because it is not only healthy but also affordable and cheap as well. 3. SWOT analysis Strength Why do we consider Noodle Express a healthy business? All the ingredients are fresh and natural. It contains Carbohydrates (noodle), proteins, (meat), vitamins and minerals (vegetables). It is affordable and is beneficial to all especially when our target market is the low class. The noodles contain fresh ingredients and are not preservatives. Weakness Opportunities One of the advantages is that noodles are easy to sell. It is affordable for all. Customers can pick the flavors they use by adding sugar, vinegar or even spices on their noodles. Since Noodle Express uses mobile stalls as vendors, the business can easily go to different locations to sell the noodles to other consumers. It is not just the mobile stalls but the business also puts up a shop for people to come and eat. Threats 4. Conclusions and Recommendations Our business is affordable, cheap and the best thing of all, healthy. People can afford it since we offer a cheap price for them to buy. Noodle Express is a successful business since it is beneficial for all. We go to the customers and they go to us. Not only that it is fresh, but it is also a healthy food that people could eat. Noodles are healthy especially when the ingredients include more fresh veggies.

Thursday, August 15, 2019

Good and Bad Stress

As is the case with most people, a stigma is carried with the perception that asking for help is a sign of weakness. So much so is this fact that people have taken their own lives, before doing so. This is a universal problem that, to date has no solution. The prevalence of this problem is so severe education has been enforced almost to a mandatory level. Organizations have made suicide prevention training as such a part of the Job now that it almost seems routine.As with soldiers that are expected to operate in high stress environments, so are officers and the risk of the pressure becoming too much is always there. An Organization known as SAVE (Suicide Awareness Voices of Education) has dedicated its mission to prevention and education, as we now know that one of the biggest defenses we have to this horrible problem is an educational offense. Knowledge is power. We need stress. Our bodies endure stress everyday and a certain amount of stress is healthy.It is once we endure more tha n we can perceptively handle that the risk of suicide becomes prevalent. Most individuals in high stress professions excel under certain stressful situations, yet another reason that it takes a certain type of person to be able to handle the demands of police work, but every person is different and their body reaction to stress may be more severe. It is here that we see a stigma arise, in that an individual sees a counterpart that handles certain situations differently and perceptively better than they themselves creating a feeling of inadequacy.It is because of perception that so many lives are lost due to this not so silent killer. Page 3 of 4 No singular definition can be used to pinpoint a definition for stress, but we are certain that â€Å"good† stress is known to be helpful. It's the bad stuff that we have to look out for. In the past, law enforcement suicides often were ruled accidental deaths, and they are still underreported, Dandies says. â€Å"Most of us agree th at the statistics are probably much higher than we actually know, because of the shame factor. † (http://Saturday's. Saturdays. Com)If those in need of help would look past the stigma of weakness associated with getting help would we see a decrease in these senseless losses? Of course! â€Å"†These folks are taught to suppress their emotions and soldier forward,† says Elizabeth Dandies, a psychologist who works with California police agencies in the aftermath of suicides. â€Å"It's very difficult for them to admit they need help. † And I agree. I myself served five years as an Army PM and had to sit through countless hours of Suicide Prevention Training and memorizing a mantra using an acronym ACE.Ask your buddy Care for your buddy Escort you buddy Did I encounter individuals that could've benefited from counseling and refused to go?

Wednesday, August 14, 2019

The Lesson: Issues on Financial Stability of Families

In this research proposal I will address issues on financial stability of families, economy and education. â€Å"The Lessonaâ‚ ¬? reflects the attitudes and education of children in the lower working class. A point was made in the story that brought up old emotions. On page 474 a student states, † Imagine for a minute what kind of society it is in which some people can spend on a toy what it would cost to feed a family of six or sevenaâ‚ ¬?. † That's not much of a democracy if you ask me. Equal chance to pursue happiness means an equal opportunity at the doughaâ‚ ¬?. Our society would much rather spend money on building prisons and shopping malls than on better school and homes. No child should have to go with less than livable housing, or be deprived from a decent education. I was told all of my life that the standards in the wealthier schools (where mostly whites went) were better than the schools in the lower parts of the city (where most blacks went). The sad fact was that it is true. I attended both schools. It made me think, why is the high achievers/summit classes at the poorer school if the other school gets the most money. The only thing that is funded in the poorer schools was the athletic department. We all deserve the same opportunities as our peers no matter what the financial situation may be. I also came to learn in the (black schools) the work was easier and the athletes were given grades. Mostly drug dealers, and dropouts hung around the school. At the predominantly white school they had police and security, but the black school had teachers and coaches as hall monitors. In an overview of educational statistics black and Hispanic children were at the bottom. If we are receiving the same education then why is there such a difference in knowledge? Politicians constantly speak about equality, but they not making a difference? We all deserve the same chance at life rather than being mock and talked about as children as never going to be anything, and we will be in jail by the time we are 16 at least twice.

Tuesday, August 13, 2019

2500 1day Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

2500 1day - Essay Example Some environmental management plans of the University include biodiversity management plan, carbon management plan, energy efficiency management plan and environmental sustainability policy. The University has joined the EcoCampus scheme that is aligned with ISO 14001 which is an international environmental management standard. The University building policy is based on preventing overheating of the building, ensuring utilization of natural ventilation and light, minimizing heat loss and equipping the buildings with energy efficient equipment. Generally, all the contractors must supply the university with a company environmental policy in order to show evidence on the ability to ensure the buildings meet the expected environmental building standards. The environmental sustainability plan aims at minimizing the impact of the University activities on the environment and ensuring that green IT systems are functional within all the campuses. The plan also ensures the carbon emissions are monitored and calculated according to the amount of energy utilized and all targets are achieved within the stipulated time period. The environmental sustainability is also geared at minimizing harmful chemical disposal, excessive carbon emissions, water wastage and improving the wellbeing of the stakeholders. The environmental management and sustainability system of Edinburgh Napier University includes environmental, economic, ethical and social factors (Edinburgh Napier University, 2013). The university is committed to entrenching the principles of sustainability in the planning and operations processes throughout all the activities of the organisation. The University has supported the carbon management programme. The current environmental sustainability plan promotes sustainability in all teaching and research activities in the University. The University has partnered with other stakeholders in encouraging the awareness of sustainability approaches and encourages the

Monday, August 12, 2019

Economic and Ethical Issues of Pricing Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Economic and Ethical Issues of Pricing - Essay Example Using prices may be because every company wants to gain and retain competitive edge at a price level. Pricing cannot be done in isolation considering that there are number of economic issues in the business environment that firms must take into consideration before setting up prices in order to remain relevant (Devan, 2011). Key economic issues that may affect a business’s pricing strategy include but not limited to level of competition, recession, demand, cost of services, elasticity and government policy. The level of competition will definitely affect the organization’s preferred pricing strategy (Martins, 2010). The tax advisory firm is already facing competition from non-CPA market competitors and do-it-yourself tax-preparation software packages. Provided you are not a market a leader in the industry, competitive pricing will always have a great impact on your service prices. This is because market leaders are renowned for establishing standard prices against which comparisons will be made on other services price offering. It is the wish of every company to sell its services with a high margin but unfortunately, this is not possible in a highly competitive market as existing competitors are likely to offer identical services at considerably lower price. When trying to set prices as in our case where the tax advisory firm is already facing competition, it is not worthwhile to avoid competitors. Devan (2011) asserts that this is because an intense competition will always increase flexibility of company price offering. It is advisable, that the decision to compete with lower price offering should cautious, because competitors often respond with lower prices if they perceive negative impact of your low prices on market share. The level of market demand is another important issue that can affect pricing strategy of products/service (Devan, 2011). Demand in this case refers to the quantity of product that the client is willing and ready to pay for. In case demand exceeds available supply, in our case being service offering then there tend to be an increased rush for the few available service providers and this is likely to inflate product prices. According to Martins (2010), business enjoys when demand is very high in the industry, as this will not significantly influence service prices unlike in situation where demand is low with a high number of suppliers in the market. Recession will often have an impact on the pricing strategy of an organization. During recession, companies tend to set their prices low owing to the consumers low spending power. Clients often demand for lower prices during recession than in normal economic and this force business to cut down their prices to be attractive to clients and avoid closing down owing to lack of business. Elasticity is a vital consideration when designing an organizations pricing. A firm must consider the reaction of clients to its products in case of changes in prices. A high ela stic product/service is that which a slight increase in price will discourage consumers and thus low demand (Devan, 2011). Inelastic products are those, whose demand is not affected by the changes in prices whether upwards or downward. A company needs to consider the type of service offering t

Administration and Executive support Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Administration and Executive support - Essay Example On the other hand, other than key skills administrative assistants must have certain key qualities that will make them effective and efficient. Some of the key qualities include the ability to prioritize as well remain calm within the organization. In addition, an administrative assistant must have the quality of working under pressure whilst remaining focused. The reason behind such qualities is the fact that MA (administrative assistant) role is usually directly under the manager who may transfer their stress to the assistant or even pressurize them when operations are not going on as planned (Frisch, 2002). (b) Demonstrate with the use of a visual aid (individual Action plan), the different methods for developing your MA skills to help you to develop in your role in supporting formal meetings, projects and personal scheduling Document production, filing, and dispatch training will provide an opportunity to the administrative assistant to learn how to produce documents, file the same, as well as dispatch the documents to various departments or individuals within the organization Through secretariat courses, administrative individuals will be able to develop knowledge and skills that are involved in not only liaising but also performing various functions of a secretary, which directly correlates to the manager or role performed such as acting as personal assistant In the event that accounting and finance department are unable to handle petty cash within the manager’s office, the administrative assistant should be given the mandate to handle such cash. However, handling such cash requires accounting skills obtainable through accounting and finance courses (a) Define the term stakeholder and produce a table to identify and classify at least ten different stakeholder groups (both internal and external) for this organization. For each stakeholder identified, explain their power and influence. A stakeholder is defined as any person, group,

Sunday, August 11, 2019

5 questions Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

5 questions - Essay Example quilibrium† model for groups development in which a group’s progress is marked by two phases of stability—Phase I and Phase II—emphasized by abrupt changes at the project center point that occurs halfway to the deadline. There are number of factors that can positively or negatively affect cohesiveness; a few of these are number of employees, duration of time for task achievement and duration of time the group spent together, organization, external pressures, location and reputation of the group, closeness of supervision, and internal competitive behavior. For example large groups (with size more than 25 to 30 employees) may reduce the development of cohesiveness. The longer the duration for group development, the larger the cohesiveness. Outside pressures (of close supervision) could speed up development of cohesion. The higher the reputation, the more potential cohesiveness will evolve. Expressing the purpose in terms of specific goal increases the productivity over and above any performance benefits achieved through individual goal setting. A behavioral norm for high productivity and performance set over organizational norms qualifies high performing work groups. For example business revenues can be influenced by many factors such as market position, advertisement and price. Through advertisement a businessman express his purpose of increasing revenues and mostly advertisement increases the productivity (Daft & Marcic, 2010). Group would be most useful for this decision. Advantages of decision of a group include (1) More information and knowledge through the sharing of group member resources, (2) Number of increased commitment and acceptance to the decision, (3) Better apprehension of the decision. The time for a group to make a decision might how ever be longer. Given the uncertain and unstructured nature of this conclusion, a group would be more efficient. Advantages in a group decision-making situation are complete information and knowledge is

Saturday, August 10, 2019

Division and Classsification Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Division and Classsification - Essay Example the wedding planners and participants such as the Groomsmen, best man, Bridesmaids, flower girls among others; however, these are not guests because of their roles. Decisively, most people have attended weddings and observed the type of different guests there based on their behavior, contributions in certain areas and their dialogue. There is certain group of guests that one can point out in almost every wedding ceremony no matter how carefully or executive the couple does the event planning. Some of the brides complain that most of these guests are from the groom’s side of the family but even some are from the bride’s side and there is no single person to blame. Comparatively, this essay focuses on evaluating and analyzing the different types of guests commonly found in weddings based on behavior, reception by the other guests, dialogue and other unusual traits. Relatives are probably the first people on the guest list of every wedding because they are the most supportive. However, in every group of relatives there is that one person who is either incongruous or random based on their dialogue around other guests and behavior around the couple. The random or inappropriate has very poor social skills because they say anything that comes to mind and to anyone. Additionally, they tend to sit around people that they have nothing or very little common with, which makes them inappropriate and weird; their conversations are out of place and generally painful, matter of fact, very people opt to sit the next to them, especially the relatives. The only time the inappropriate relatives are fun is when they meet with the group of the couple’s friends that likes to party; however, they are only hilarious to these friends when they are all drunk. Remember the only reason that they attend the ceremony is because they overheard people talking about the wedding and decided to attend. Most of the time, they are introduced to the couple during the