Drink †Coffee Essay

A. Overview of the Industry The beverage industry in the Philippines has increased its market volume in the recent years as the fruit of gaining popularity and support from majority of the Philippine population. According to Euromonitor. com, after reporting a total volume drop of 2% in the previous year, juice recovered to be among the most vibrant soft drinks categories in 2013. Total juice volume ballooned by 8% supported by the products’ popularity among schoolchildren and the increasing health-consciousness in the country. Manufacturers continue to cash in on the local perception that juice is healthier than other popular soft drinks products like carbonates. It should be noted that, in 2013, the Department of Education banned the selling of carbonated drinks in school premises. Juice benefits from this development as it is among the beverages geared at children. B. Market Profile The target market of Zest-O in general are the kids and moms. These consumers can afford consumption for such beverages and therefore, better chances of high sales volume. Simultaneously, they also have the tendency to be more aware of health and wellness needs basically due to unlimited access to the diverse forms of media for advertising and promotions as carriers of information. As mentioned earlier, the Philippines, having a warm climate, is not such a comfortable place to be in especially during the peak of heat waves. For the local consumer, it’s all natural to look for a thirst-quenching treat in compensation for the discomforts of the heat. In line with this, demand for refreshing beverages significantly boosts during the months of March, April and May, while the rest of the year, the demand lessens partially yet remains constant. C. Market Size Based on the preliminary results of the 2012 Census of Philippine and Industry (CPBI) conducted nationwide, the Philippines had a total of 173,900 Value of Production of Key Manufacturing Enterprises by Beverage Industry for the year 2012. Table 1 shows that Beverage Industry for the year 2009 garnered the lowest number of value of production of key manufacturing enterprises at 123,300 (71.9%) followed by the year 2010 with 141,700 value of production of key manufacturing enterprises. Table 1 Link: http://www. nscb. gov. ph/secstat/d_estab. asp Industry cost structure A value chain is a model used to disaggregate a firm into its strategically relevant value generating activities, in order to evaluate each activity’s contribution to the firm’s performance (Terms V 2006). Through the analysis of this model we can gain insight as to how a firm creates their competitive advantage and shareholder value. The value chain of the nonalcoholic beverage industry contains five main activities. These include inbound logistics (suppliers), operations, outbound logistics (buyers/ customers), marketing and sales, and service. Inbound Logistics (Suppliers) Zest-O’s suppliers provide them with materials such as ingredients, packaging and machinery. In order to ensure that these materials are in satisfactory condition, Zest-O has put certain standards in place which these suppliers must adhere to (The Supplier Guiding Principles). These include: compliance with laws and standards, laws and regulations, freedom of association and collective bargaining, forced and child labor, abuse of labor, discrimination, wages and benefits, work hours and overtime, health and safety, environment, and demonstration of compliance (Zest-O 2006). From time to time, Zest-O uses third parties to assess their suppliers by having interviews with employers and contract workers. If a supplier has issues about the supplier guiding principles, they are usually given a certain amount of time to take corrective measures; if not, Zest-O has the right to terminate their contract with these suppliers. Operations Zest-O’s core operations consist of Company-owned concentrate and syrup production. According to their website, some of the main environmental impacts of their business occur further along the value chain through system’s bottling operations, distribution networks, and sales and marketing activities. Management of these operations across the business value chain tends to be more challenging outside of the core operations. According to Zest-O, they continue to address this by working with their partners to reduce the effects at every level of the manufacturing process by enlarging their comprehension of the complete environmental impact of their business through the entire lifecycle of their products from ingredient procurement to production, delivery, sales and marketing, and post-consumer recycling. Outbound Logistics (Buyers/ Customers). The activities required to get finished products to customers include warehousing, order fulfillment, transportation, and distribution management. Zesto products are sometimes transported by four-legged power. Across much of provinces, bottlers deliver to thousands of family-run kiosks and home-based stores. Marketing and Sales The Company pioneered the first-ready-to-drink juice drink in flexible foil pouch (Doy Pack System). With its flair for innovation, Zest-O juice drinks won the consumers’ patronage and wide acceptance. Over the past 25 years, Zest-O has earned itself a place in the Filipino culture. Zest-O Corporation has posted enormous growth over the years. With total assets of only Php 10M when it started, it continued to grow reaching annual gross sales of 280M in 1987 after 6 ? years of operation. As the company continued to venture into different products, sales continued to MULTIPLY reaching a total annual gross sales of Php 2. 6 B for the year 2004 with a total asset of 450 M. Service Activities that maintain and enhance a product’s value include customer support, repair services, installation and training. Zest-o’s customers range from large international retailers to smaller independent businesses and vendors. As a result, they provide services tailored to meet their customer’s needs. Market Trends Zest-O’s target markets are increasingly growing towards recognizing the difference between poor quality brews and those of high quality. This development is an important trend for the company as it represent its target market. Zest-O now are having an increasing number of people who appreciate the traditional brews whilst living in the urban areas. With this in mind Zest-O intend to ensure that our packaging is respectable and attractive. Today’s extremely stressful work environment dictates that individuals consume healthy drinks especially in the summer season, this presents an opportunity that Zest-O may exploit, marketing the health aspect of its beverages. Market Growth Juice will continue to capitalize on its health positioning to sustain growth in the forecast period. The total volume CAGR from 2013 to 2018 in this category is 2% while constant value sales will reach Ps45. 6 billion in 2018. The demand for juice is supported by the health-consciousness of consumers in the Philippines, and will be stimulated further by the expected influx of new product developments by manufacturers in 2013-2018. Recognizing consumers’ increasing demand for products, which are positioned to improve the wellbeing of patrons, industry players will largely invest in the development of health and wellness juice products. Fortification will remain a key strategy employed by companies to differentiate themselves from competition and target specific consumers. Source: http://www. euromonitor. com/juice-in-the-philippines/report Market Needs Drinks in the Philippines are not only a necessary complement to meals, but also help beat the tropical heat. As with their food, Filipinos often incorporate local produce into beverages to create tasty and refreshing concoctions. A few examples include blended mango shakes, coconut juice and pandan leaf iced tea. Filipinos also enjoy the coconut-infused hard liquor known as lambing and gin cocktails mixed with pineapple juice or citrus fruit juice. Zest-o will set out to provide good quality products that will help instill a jovial environment. Zest-o intends to provide the customer with more than a drink to quench one’s thirst. The company intend to provide a quality beverage that not only quenches one’s thirst but enables one to enjoy themselves and be proud of it. The quality of raw materials and assembly technology evident in their products will serve to enhance the appearance of the customers, in turn adding to their status.

Cost Information for decision making Essay

Two common costing systems used in business are traditionally cost accounting system (job costing, process costing and operating costing) and activity-based costing system (ABC). There are some similarities and differences between these systems. Regarding the similarities, both accumulate product costs throughout the production process and assign those costs to individual units of production. Additionally, product cost under two costing systems consists of direct materials, direct labor and manufacturing overhead. In terms of differences, they are different in the way how the overhead costs are allocated. For conventional costing, it assigns manufacturing overhead based on a single volume based cost driver such as direct labour hours. In contrast, ABC approaches cost from the perspective that products do not cause costs. It requires activities which are the causes of all costs incurred so it allocates manufacturing overhead according to the activities needed to produce the products. Therefore, it highlights the existence of non value added activity which is not existed under traditional method. ABC also differs from conventional costing in the use of several cost pools when allocating the overhead costs. For instance, traditional costing uses only one cost pool to distribute the overhead whereas there are many cost pools involved under ABC. Furthermore, ABC employs both volume-based and non-volume-based cost drivers while conventional costing utilizes only volume-based cost drivers. Another difference is that conventional approach complies with the GAAP so it can be used to satisfy conventional financial reporting requirements. On the other hand, accounting standard board does not accept ABC to prepare financial statements so it can be useful for internal management decision. Under conventional system, there are similarities between job costing, process costing and operating costing. Firstly, they accumulate product costs throughout the production process and assign those costs to products. Secondly, these costing systems calculate the product costs which comprise direct material, direct labour and manufacturing overhead. Lastly, the cost flows for three systems is from raw material to work in process to finished goods and then to costs of goods sold. These first two systems can be distinguished by the following differences. First, job costing system is used by the company which produces unique products or products based on customer orders. Conversely, process costing is for the firms which produce one or a few homogenous products and often have continuous mass production. Second, each individual product costs are traced easily under job costing while process costing makes no attempt to track individual product costs. Thirdly, under job costing, the transfer from one job to another does not take place whereas the production from one process is transferred to next one till the product is full completed under process costing. Next, process costing accumulates product costs in each production department throughout the period while job order costing accumulates product costs to specific units. Operating costing for company which has a mix production system that produces in large quantities but then is customized the finished product. Therefore, operating costing is a combination of process costing and job costing. However, it differs from job and process costing which includes more than two types of cost pools in overhead allocation process. The cost pools are designed to match the separate processes that may be allocated to batches of products. Comment about the quality of your work: According to the assessment criteria, my answer for the question should be marked 7. This is for the following reasons. Firstly, the answer is well-organized into five paragraphs which consist of differences between conventional costing and ABC costing. For instance, the first and second paragraphs demonstrate the similarities and differences between conventional costing and ABC. Apart from this, the answer also points out the similarities and differences between job costing, process costing and operating costing.

Oral health condition of the Maya community Essay

Oral health condition of the Maya community - Essay Example The results of the study showed that missing teeth correlated significantly with age. Gender, religion, income, and education levels were not related significantly related to missing teeth. The samples used had restored their teeth using amalgamated fillings, bridges, full dentures or crowns. Periodontal diseases occur in four stages; 1. Color change on gums, 2. Gums bleed, 3. Gums become sensitive, 4. Oral lesions appear. 45 % of the respondents showed two or more signs while 10% showed all the signs. 16% of the participants showed five symptoms of temporomandibular joint dysfunction. Most of the respondents did not have access to preventive health. Instead, they used reactionary care that is the extraction of teeth either by themselves or by minimally educated participants. Interviewees had different reactions on tooth extraction. However, a larger percentage preferred tooth extraction since it eliminated acute pain. 54 respondents were aware that failing to brush their teeth was a cause of their teeth problems. The level of healthcare among the respondents was dependent on their income level. The respondents either visited an odontology or a dentist depending on how much money they had. The condition in the two differed in terms of qualification of the doctor, equipment, workspace and even aesthetic appearance of the facility. Some respondents found it expensive to purchase toothbrushes. Moreover, they could not afford dental care and thus waited until their teeth fell off.

Business Commuication Writing Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Business Commuication Writing - Assignment Example 190). This is not the case because this act will create gaps in an applicant’s resume and gaps between jobs are not appreciated by an interviewer or screener. This will make the screener believe that an applicant is incompetent and due to this, he had failed to find jobs. It is wrong to state employment in an organization in which an applicant has not worked at all, because the human resource team has a huge network and they know other individuals of the human resource management department of other organizations and can easily obtain information about a particular individual’s employment with another organization. The human resource management team even has contacts with the government and can easily obtain background information about a particular applicant. It is okay to provide a photograph attached with the resume because a photograph provides a lot of information about a particular applicant, such as personality and looks which are quite important for recruiters. Even if the photograph provides information that may help the recruiters in making a biased decision, there is no harm in it because the same information is provided in the resume by the applicant. Those applicants that show an â€Å"I† attitude or, in other words, those who try to paint a picture that they can perform alone are not welcomed by current recruiters because recruiters today try to locate applicants and employees who have an ability to work along with a team. Those who show an individualistic attitude fail to pass the interviewing phase as recruiters know that today an individual cannot perform alone and needs a team to perform a task. An applicant might be told by many that they should be deceptive in their CVs, but this is not true as deceptive CVs and those that are not deceptive are treated equally, and CVs do not ensure that an applicant will get a job; rather, they ensure that an applicant will get a

Rose for emiley written by william faulkner Essay

Rose for emiley written by william faulkner - Essay Example These devices include motifs, themes and symbols; for instance, the theme of tradition versus change, symbol of the hair strands and Emily’s house and motifs such as watching and dust. Themes, symbols and motifs play significance roles in enhancing the story’s plot and of characters’ traits. Themes The theme of ‘tradition versus change’ is notable throughout the story, particularly through Emily’s mysterious figure through which Faulkner demonstrates the struggles, which emerge from attempting to maintain tradition in light of sweeping change. Jefferson town is at the crossroad, accepting a modern commercial future while remaining perched in the past. This is notable in the eroded glory of the Grierson home to the cemetery where the town buried unknown Civil War (Faulkner 83). Emily is part of the tradition, steadfastly remaining unchanged over the years regardless of the countless changes occurring in her community. She represents traditions which people seek to honor, but she is also a burden cut off from the external world as she nurses odd behaviors that others do not comprehend. In essence, Faulkner uses the theme of ‘tradition versus change’ to show how Emily inhabits a timeless vacuum, as well as the world conjured by her imagination. For instance, Emily refuses to have metallic numbers embedded to her house when Jefferson receives modern mail services. While Jefferson holds traditional notions, such as reputation and honor in high regard, the narrator is rather critical towards the old men who wore Confederate uniforms to Emily’s funeral. The narrator notes that like Emily, the old men considered time a relative element. The theme of the power of death also enhances the story’s plot. Death permeates the story from the mention of Emily’s death at the beginning of the story (Faulkner 11). In all instances, death prevails over all attempts to master it. For instance, Emily who is a key fixture in her community slowly succumbs to death. The narrator compares Emily to a drowned woman who is bloated and pale after staying too long in the water. Emily tries to exert power over death by denying its existence. This is most notable through Emily’s treatment of Homer, after the death of the latter. Motifs The story encompasses motifs such as dust, which underscores decay and deteriorations. The dust which covers Emily’s house is a fitting description of the lives which faded within the house. Faulkner writes that when the aldermen went to secure Emily’s tax payments, Emily’s house smelt of dust and disuse, and the dust rose when they sat. This demonstrates the degree to which Emily’s house was a place of stasis in which memories and regrets remained undisturbed. The dust also portrays the cloud of obscurity which hides Emily’s nature as well as the secrets inherent in her house (Faulkner 112). A Rose for Emily also encompasses the motif of watching in which Emily is the subject of the narrator and Jefferson townspeople’s intense controlling stare. Instead of establishing real connections with Emily, the townspeople establish subjective and imprecise interpretations of the woman they hardly know. The townspeople attended Emily’s funeral under the pretense of honor and respect, but they wanted to satisfy their curiosity regarding the town’s most eccentric person. Perhaps the most ironic dimension of the story is that of the theorizing and gossiping which the townspeople do behind Emily’

Treatment of sepsis Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Treatment of sepsis - Research Paper Example International campaigns to improve outcomes have emerged based upon the efforts of 11 different organizations in the guise of the Surviving Sepsis Campaign. An international effort to increase awareness and improve outcome in severe sepsis. On the agenda are data from hospitals around the world, where the condition has been tackled by decades of dedicated work from a variety of researchers. Sepsis and related disorders are potentially life-threatening syndromes that occur in association with a suspected infections whose signs and symptoms match at least two conditions of a systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS). The major SIRS conditions are an increased heart rate, fever, and rapid respiration; the young and the elderly often exhibit early signs and symptoms of sepsis sometimes before exhibiting the full scope of SIRS criteria. The majority of sepsis cases are the result of bacterial infection. Those hospitalized with sepsis are treated with intravenous antibiotics, and therapy to alleviate organ dysfunction. (Davis & Stà ¶ppler, 2011) Sepsis and systemic inflammation that arises as a result are still responsible for as much as 70% of mortality in some intensive care units. (Reidemann et al. 2003) The mortality rate of severe sepsis includes organ dysfunction as a result of infection or subsequent failure in blood pressure and septic shock. This is in cases where hypotension does not respond to fluid resuscitation and correlates with organ dysfunction or blood pressure issues is too high by the standards of any medical practitioner. (Dellinger et al. 2004) Even before signs of organ failure, the odds of mortality can still reach up to 30%. Prevention of infections in the first place and the expedient diagnosis and treatment of sepsis are the best ways to prevent sepsis and moderate sepsis syndromes. The prognosis depends on severity of sepsis, and can change rapidly unless answered with swift, effective treatment. Also influential is the underlying

The Concept of Market Segmentation Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

The Concept of Market Segmentation - Term Paper Example The Marketing of the business requires co-ordination, planning and implementation of strategies and requires the future Marketing Manager having the right skills and training to ensure success. Marketing is an important element for the success of any organisation. Marketing message by the organisation needs to instil a sense of excitement and urgency in the customer to try out the product or service. The marketing by the organisation should satisfy the needs and wants of the customer along with benefitting the shareholders of the organisation.   Marketing management is an important part of the business management, with the customer the main focus of its activities.   Marketing objectives and targets have to be monitored and met, and through effective use of marketing research and marketing concepts, Eden Leisure & Fitness Centre should be able to identify the needs and wants of its customer and try to delivers benefits for both the customers and the business. Eden Leisure Centre will use marketing to generate the strategy which will define their sales technique, business communication and business development. Marketing concepts and techniques will be used to identify, satisfy and maintain the customer. This will help the leisure centre in building strong customer relationships, creating value for their customers as well as the business itself. An explanation of the marketing concepts and some suggestions for measures/initiatives the centre could introduce that would demonstrate a marketing orientation approach to its customers. E den Leisure fitness center needs to have a marketing-oriented approach for making their business successful. A marketing oriented approach allows organisations to conduct their work operations according to the wants of the customers. Eden Leisure fitness centre needs to denote the wants and requirements of the customers and then accordingly provide the services to them. The decisions that would be taken by Eden Leisure fitness centre needs to revolve around the customer wants rather than thinking about what would be right for customers.

How did the discovery of the Americas impacted European life Essay

How did the discovery of the Americas impacted European life - Essay Example In this respect, Columbus’ discovery of a New World was a disappointment, because he had gone in search of western access to Japan and India. He failed to return to Spain loaded with spices. But next Spanish-backed explorations soon proved the value of the newly discovered lands (Kishlansky 358). The discoveries of Americas in the first place influenced the economic development of Europe. There began to emerge a colonial system that has accelerated the capitalist production in Western Europe and contributed to the accumulation of the large sums of money in the hands of bourgeoisie. The latter opened the door to the organization of the large enterprises. The discovery of new lands could not but influence the worldview of the European people, their religious, philosophical and religious thought. The discovery of Americas had also a huge impact on the European habits, because the first traders brought to Europe such integral parts of everyday life like chocolate and tobacco. Thes e products were unknown in Europe before. The influence of tobacco and drinking chocolate could not be questioned. Thus, the current paper discusses the impact that the discovery of Americas had on the Western European economy, on religious and philosophical thought, and on people’s everyday habits in the early modern period. ... The monopoly on these new markets guaranteed the rapid accumulation of capital in the countries of the Western Europe. There began the so-called â€Å"price revolution† (Fischer 68). It was caused by the import of large amounts of American gold and silver to Europe. During the 14th century the total amount of hard money in Europe increased more than 4 times. The large inflow of relatively cheap gold and silver led to the sharp drop of their value and to the significant increase in prices for agricultural and industrial products. The revolution in pries has strengthened the urban and rural bourgeoisie and advanced their incomes. The feudal lords were broken. The poorest peasants and workers suffered great damages due to the price revolution. The prices for agricultural products have grown to a much greater extent than for the luxuries (Fischer 77). In Spain, for example, due to the increasing costs a number of goods became uncompetitive. This was one of the reasons for the decl ine of the industry and commerce in this country. However, due to the same reasons the Dutch merchants came at the international stage as the leading trade agents. Gold inflation had a great impact on the industrial development, accelerating the transition to capitalism manufacturing. There was a sharp decline in the wages of the workers. Thought, the nominal value of the wages increased, it was not sufficient in comparison with price increases. In France, price revolution lead to the numerous peasants’ revolts, because they could not cope with burdensome taxes and rent they had to pay their lords. Naturally, when the prices for the goods of the first necessity became impossible, it led to the increasing discontent among masses (Spielvogel

Discuss Reproductive Alternatives Research Paper

Discuss Reproductive Alternatives - Research Paper Example Georgia Reproductive Specialists (n.d.) stated, ‘The procedure, called Transvaginal Oocyte Retrieval, requires neither hospitalization nor general anesthesia. In order to prepare a proper environment in the woman and to increase the chances of recovering several healthy and mature eggs, the woman will undergo about two weeks of intensive preparation. This will include hormonal therapy with "fertility drugs." Blood tests and ultrasound scans of the ovaries are used to determine the optimal time to retrieve the eggs from the ovary. This optimal time is just before ovulation when the oocytes are almost ready for fertilization. At the proper time, an outpatient procedure under local anesthesia will allow the females eggs to be visualized by ultrasound and retrieved from the ovary by placing a needle through the vaginal wall. Usually, the eggs will develop into cleaving pre-embryos, whose cells divide 2 or 3 times to become preimplantation embryos (pre-embryos). Using a special cath eter, the couples pre-embryos will be passed through the vagina and into the uterus at the time the pre-embryos would normally have reached the uterus (2+ days after retrieval). After the pre-embryo placement in the uterus, the patient will lie quietly in a bed for about an hour, and then will return home.’ The process of Transvaginal Oocyte Retrieval can actually bring about emotional stress and even anxiety. Like other alternatives, it does not guarantee a hundred percent accuracy. It is also said to have serious side effects, however, drawbacks can be prevented once those are immediately detected. Another option that is becoming popular is the surrogate mothering. Malpani, Annirudha and Malpani, Anjali wrote, ‘The word "surrogate" means substitute or replacement and a surrogate mother is one who lends her uterus to another couple so that they can have a baby. In the West where fewer and fewer babies are offered for adoption, surrogacy is gaining popularity, despite

Dress solution Essay Example for Free

Dress solution Essay America’s schools have been faced with increased challenges over the last several years. Aside from seeking out new ways to educate students and keeping up with changes in technology, school leaders are facing a continued rise in social problems in their schools. Among these problems are incidents of school violence, gang activity and bullying which create a tension on school grounds nationwide that prevents many schools from fulfilling their mandate to educate students. Sadly, some of the most tragic incidents that occur in schools stem from the type of clothing that is being worn by students. Often theft and violence can be linked to designer clothes and expensive shoes. Sometimes clothing bearing colors and insignias may be used to identify gang affiliation, thereby promoting fear and intimidation among students. Certain styles of clothing also lend themselves toward easily hiding weapons. Furthermore, the pressure to be fashionable and have the latest clothes can take its toll financially and emotionally on students and parents. These issues are beginning to gain momentum, especially among parents, in school districts across the country. Parental support has become the force behind the increase in school districts adopting student dress policies. A recent survey in Hoke County, North Carolina showed an average of 64 percent of parents supported uniforms in the schools. Student dress also drew the attention of the former President Clinton. In a memorandum on school uniforms to the Secretary of Education, he directed the Secretary to â€Å"develop information about how local school districts have made uniforms part of their school safety and discipline programs. † He also requested that information about school uniforms be made available to every school district in the country. There are no perfect solutions to the social problems that exist in today’s schools. However, schools can and should consider practical steps to create an atmosphere of respect and attentiveness for their students. Implementing a student dress policy is one such option. Although little formal research has been done on the effect these policies have on students, the feedback given by those who have implemented school dress policies indicate these policies are making a difference. This paper will explore the types of school dress policies—school uniforms and dress codes—and the effects they are having in today’s schools. Student Dress as Policy The attention given to school dress codes and uniforms has become more and more focused over the last several years. As dialogue increases among parents, students and school officials about what remedies may exist to deal with the problems facing today’s schools, student dress policies have moved to the forefront. The issue received nationwide recognition in 1998 when, in his State of the Union address, President Clinton recommended school uniforms as a method of reducing school violence. Since that time, there has been a notable increase in the number of schools that have considered and implemented a dress policy for their students. More recently, in his State of the State address, North Carolina Governor Mike Easley recommended school dress codes as a means to address behavior in North Carolina’s schools. In his speech Governor Easley asked every school board to â€Å"enforce a reasonable dress code policy because students come to school to learn—not to party. † It appears that leaders on many levels have begun to recognize the potential benefits that school dress policies can have on the school environment. Uniforms: When implementing a school dress policy, some schools are more directives while others take a more passive approach. School uniforms are certainly the more directive method because they tell students what they must wear. A school uniform policy requires students to wear similar looking outfits to class each day. Some schools do offer an â€Å"opt-out† option if the parents agree to it. Others will also make exception for students whose religious beliefs may be hindered by the uniform. The first known public school in the country to adopt a school policy on uniforms was Cherry Hill Elementary in Baltimore, Maryland in 1987. The first major school district to require school uniforms was California’s Long Beach Unified School District in 1994. 6 According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) of the U. S. Department of Education; only about three percent of public schools require uniforms to be worn by their students. Nationwide, at least 37 states, including North Carolina, give local school districts the authority to require uniforms if they choose to. The first county in North Carolina to require uniforms was Halifax County. As of the 2000-2001 school year, they are the only school district in the state to require uniforms in all their schools. 10 The county school uniform regulations require elementary and middle school students to wear certain combinations of khaki bottoms with navy or white shirts (plaid jumpers are allowed for females). High school students must wear a variety of pants and shirts combinations depending on the school they attend. The Halifax uniform policy does ease penalties for financial hardship and exempts students from wearing a uniform if it imposes a substantial burden on a student’s exercise of religious belief. Though no other school districts require uniforms district-wide, some individual schools within school districts have chosen to require uniforms. For example, in North Carolina’s largest school district—Charlotte/ Mecklenburg—23 of the 144 schools have chosen to require uniforms even though they are not required to do so. Dress Codes: Another less stringent approach to student dress policy is the school dress code. A school dress code instructs students on what they cannot wear instead of telling them what to wear (i. e. no hats, no tight fitting clothes, no vulgar or obscene depictions on clothing, etc. ). Dress codes are much more common in North Carolina’s schools than uniform policies. Out of the 117 school districts in this state, at least 48 have some form of dress code in place. One of this state’s most notable school dress code policies is in Johnston County. Their policy not only prohibits inappropriate clothing such as short shorts and sagging pants, but also prohibits abnormal hair colors and body piercing jewelry. Students who violate the policy may receive a short term suspension from school for up to 10 days and students who repeatedly violate the policy may be suspended for the remainder of the year. Other counties, such as Cabarrus, have similar policies, but leave the responsibility of developing rules and regulation up to each school’s principal. The Effect: There has been little scientific study done on the effects of student dress policies. However, there is empirical evidence that continues to mount, especially with the rising number of schools who are considering these options. One survey of schools nationwide conducted by the National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP) revealed that one out of five (21 percent) public, private and parochial school principles had either instigated a uniform policy, were currently writing one, or had it on their agenda for consideration. With so many schools and school districts adopting school dress policies, it is important to understand why so many have chosen to do so. The purpose for most, if not all, schools that are adopting uniforms and dress codes is to address the issues of discipline and academic achievement. Classroom disruptions are commonplace in today’s schools and having methods in place to promote a better learning environment have never been more important. Furthermore, little debate remains over the dangers and pressures that exist in schools today. With the increased displays of school violence, many school officials, parents and students have become more determined to find solutions. In determining the effectiveness of school dress policies, there is no more compelling evidence that the feedback from the school principals themselves. Though the majority of public schools do not require uniforms, the feedback is very positive from those who do. According to one survey conducted by the NAESP, principals of schools that have uniform policies in place believe that students stay more disciplined and focused in their studies and feel less peer pressure. According to the study, principals identified the following effects of school uniforms: 79 percent believed uniforms positively affected classroom discipline; 67 percent saw an improvement in student concentration; 62 percent noticed a positive effect on school safety; 72 percent saw an increase in school spirit; 85 percent noted a better perception of the school by the community; and 75 percent indicated a positive effect on peer pressure among students. In North Carolina, the feedback from Halifax County is also positive. Dr. Viola Vaughan, principle at Southeast Halifax High School said that their school uniform policy has done a lot for the students both academically and behaviorally. â€Å"Discipline issues have decreased tremendously,† she said, â€Å"when children look around at each other, they don’t see the name brands and clothing that often divides them. † Dr. Vaughan pointed out that even school assemblies are quieter because students act more respectfully. Alan Sledge, assistant principle at Brawley Middle School in Halifax County, said that their uniform policy was â€Å"very effective and places a very valuable role on the academic setting because the kids are more focused on their books over their clothes. † Feedback on school dress codes has also been positive. According to Don Woodard, a high school principal in Johnston County, the student’s â€Å"demeanor is better and there are fewer disruptions because of teasing, or students being uncomfortable because of the apparel that others are wearing. † He also pointed out that the students have more â€Å"poise and are more well-behaved when they have the sense of being dressed for the occasion of learning. †22 Commenting on his school’s dress code, Shelly Marsh, a middle school principle also from Johnston County, said: â€Å"We have high expectations by having a dress code, students know there are expectations and guidelines that they must adhere to. Students’ attitudes are different according to their dress. † Along with school principals, the U. S. Department of Education has acknowledged the positive effect that school uniforms can have. In their publication â€Å"Manual on School Uniforms,† which was ordered to be sent to every school district in the United States by President Clinton, the Department of Education cited the following potential benefits of school uniforms: (1) decreasing violence and theft; (2) preventing gang members from wearing gang clothing at school; (3) instilling student discipline; (4) helping to resist peer pressure; (5) helping students concentrate on academics; and (6) aiding in the recognition of intruders. Safety and Other Benefits Of all the potential benefits of school dress policies, none is more important than improving school safety. With student violence constantly making the headlines, the clamor for solutions continues to grow. Safety in schools today is essential, and creating an environment that reduces incidents of intimidation and violence is necessary for students to learn effectively. Unfortunately, the demand for high priced designer clothing often puts students at risk of theft and violence from other students. Clothing that indicates affiliation with gangs is also a problem and can cause intimidation and fear in schools. The National School Safety and Security Services, an organization that consults nationwide on school safety and crisis preparedness issues, supports school uniforms and dress codes as a way to â€Å"contribute toward improving the school climate† because it â€Å"can play a significant role in reducing security threats and improving school safety. † According to this safety organization, dress codes and uniforms can help reduce potential problems by: (1) reducing conflict stemming from socioeconomic status, such as comments and personal attacks about who has better clothing; (2) reducing ways in which gang members can identify themselves which, in essence, is a form of intimidation and creates fear; (3) reducing the risk of students being robbed of expensive clothing, jewelry, etc. ; (4) in the case of uniforms, helping school administrators to more easily identify non students, trespassers, and other visitors in the hallways who stand out in the crowd. Notable evidence of the effects of a student dress policy can be seen from the aftermath of California’s Long Beach school district implementing mandatory school uniforms. Since they began requiring uniforms, crime in the school district has dropped by 91 percent, suspensions have decreased by 90 percent, sex offenses have been reduced by 96 percent and vandalism is down 69 percent. Interestingly, these improvements came about without any other security measures having been implemented at the time uniforms became mandatory. In addition, a study released by the Harvard School of Education found that the Long Beach school district was among six districts in the nations 34 largest cities that dramatically reduced their dropout rates. During the past five years, dropout rates have declined from 11. 2 to 2. 7 percent. The Center for the Prevention of School Violence, though not endorsing any specific dress code policies, points out that each of the â€Å"three Ps of school safety† — â€Å"place† (physical security of the school), â€Å"people† (those in the school) and â€Å"purpose† (mission of the school)—can be impacted by school dress policies. This is because dress policies define what is appropriate for the school setting while impacting the way in which people relate and interact with one another. The Center acknowledges that though the research on student dress policies is limited, the anecdotal evidence supports the existence of some form of student dress policy. It is important to remember that the solution to school violence does not lie in one single approach—certainly not in school dress policies alone. Yet, because of the likely benefit of curbing school violence, they should be considered along with other solutions. Student dress policies can also benefit students far beyond keeping them safe. Schools with uniforms say that their students have better self-esteem because without the name brand clothing on display, the students are placed on an equal level. Poorer students do not feel and are not treated as inferior because they don’t have nice clothes. This equality also seems to create a sense of school unity. Dr. Viola Vaughan and Allan Sledge, both principals from Halifax county have witnessed an increase in school unity since uniforms were required. Dr. Arnold Goldstein, head of the Center for Research on Aggression at Syracuse University agrees. He believes that uniforms encourage a â€Å"sense of belonging† because they promote a feeling of community among the students and help make a troubled student feel like part of a supportive whole. These effects contribute to a school’s overall sense of order and discipline. As a result, the learning environment improves—making it easier for teachers to teach and for students to learn. Student dress policies also reduce the cost of clothing for students. Parents whose children wear uniforms do not have to spend extra money on multiple outfits for their children. Instead, they need only invest in a few outfits that conform to the school’s uniform policy. This is particularly helpful to the low-income parents who often feel the financial burden of providing suitable clothes for their children. USA Today reported that in 1998 parents of students in non-uniform schools spent an average of $185 per child while parents of children in uniform schools spent an average of $104 per child. 33 Uniforms also minimize the confusion about what to wear to school each day, relieving students of the chaos of choosing and outfit each day. Dress codes are also helpful for parents when shopping for their children because they provide guidelines for parents when purchasing clothes for their children—often ruling out excessive and expensive articles of clothing that conflict with the school’s policies and keeping student dress within reasonable boundaries. Student dress policies offer authority figures in the schools the opportunity to display their own dedication and discipline. Some schools with dress policies include (or extend the option to) teachers to participate as well. Certainly, if teachers and administrators exhibit the same discipline that is required of the students, it will reinforces the guidelines and make students more likely to comply.

Internal And Task Environment Analysis

Internal And Task Environment Analysis The purpose of this paper is to discuss environmental factors affecting upon McDonalds management functions. And current strategy the company currently using to tackle this environmental impact. This will be achieved by exploring how McDonalds tackle with all of the external and internal environmental factors. There are mainly three factors that were selected to outline the achievement of McDonalds corporation. The first factor is globalization, which is define as closer contact between different parts of the world, with increasing possibilities of personal exchange, mutual understanding and friendship between world populations. Diversity, the difference among people and cultures, is the second factor discussed in the paper. The final factor is ethics, which can be defined as a set of principles of right conduct. This paper explains how the McDonald Corporations uses the factors to conduct business around the world. There are many different values to the dollar around the world, many issues that have occurred in many of those regions/websites, and about 120 countries served by McDonalds that Rely on the functions of management to succeed. Finally, short and long term strategic and tactical recommendations were outlined in order to enhance McDonalds competitive position within the global fast-food industry. These recommendations are both realistic and well supported, based upon the evaluation of their current strategy and activities. 1.0 Introduction McDonalds fast food restaurant is one of the largest franchises in the United States as well as aboard. Their top menu items include: hamburgers, cheeseburgers, McNuggets, and French fries. They are also known for one of their popular desserts: the apple pie and their breakfast sandwich: the Egg McMuffin. There are more than 32,000 McDonalds restaurants serving in 117 countries. More than 75% of McDonalds restaurants worldwide are owned and operated by independent owners. McDonalds has several ethical and social responsibility policies in place throughout their solely owned and franchised companies. These policies include placing the customer experience at the core of what they do, committing to their employees by nurturing their talent and rewarding their achievements, maintaining high standards regarding the conduct for business, and giving back to the communities in which they are established. All of these values are infiltrated through all levels of the company, which keeps McDonalds thriving as a successful fast food chain restaurant. Moreover, as visited McDonalds stores all over the country, it became clear to me that the drive-through business was successful priority one. Risk management is imperative to McDonalds. They have a risk assessment tool that they use to determine the country risk: which pertains to the specific country/region they are located in; industry risk: pertains to supplies produce; and facility risk: which is a combination of both country and risk groundwork. These factors are all part of the risk assessment tool that is used in each of their companies to help them with risk management. Security features in McDonalds includes their security camera systems within the facilities to continuously monitor all activity in and around the restaurants to ensure the safety for the workers as well as customers. Thus, McDonalds use these security cameras also in regards to workers compensation claims or liability lawsuit claims from consumers. McDonalds also monitors their computer software systems with an ACS system that monitors the technological factors of their business. 2.0 Internal and Task Environment Analysis 2.1 McDonalds Mission The mission statement of McDonalds fast food restaurants around the world is not much different from any restaurant chain McDonalds brand mission is to be our customers favorite place and way to eat. McDonalds vision is to be the worlds best quick service restaurant experience. Being the best means providing outstanding quality policy QCSV that is a quality, cleanliness, service and value, so that we make every customer in every restaurant smile. Moreover, have provided its customers with the opportunity to dine and mingle with family and friends too. That broad and common mission statement is more clearly defined by the McDonalds good Values for money food to its customers and to make its product offering available to a wide customer base. Currently McDonalds is implementing a global strategy that it calls Play to Win, which is designed to create a consistently excellent customer experience in McDonalds restaurants. The five key facets of that McDonalds experience are people, products, place, price, and promotion (4P). Importantly, to ensure that each customer receives prompt, professional, friendly and courteous service. Additionally, to maintain a clean, comfortable and well maintained premises for its guests and staff. The price provided at fair, nutritional using only quality ingredients well prepared meals as well. Which reflects the experience those customers can expect when walking into a McDonalds fast food restaurant no matter where it is located. Eventually, ensure that guests and staff are treated with the respect and dignity they deserve and thanks each guest for the opportunity to serve them. By maintaining these objectives, aims to be assured of a fair profit that will allow it to contribute to the community it serve. 2.2 McDonalds Objectives A marketing plan must be created to meet clear objectives. Objectives guide marketing actions and are used to measure how well a plan is working. These can be related to market share, sales, and goals, reaching the target audience and creating awareness in the marketplace. The objectives communicate what marketers want to achieve. Long-term objectives are broken down into shorter-term measurable targets, which McDonalds uses as milestones along the way. Results can be analyzed regularly to see whether objectives are being met. This type of feedback allows the company to change plans. It gives flexibility. Once marketing objectives are set the next stage is to define how they will be achieved. The marketing strategy is the statement of how objectives will be delivered. It explains what marketing actions and resources will be used and how they will work together. However, wish to provide tasty foods and drink we sell meets the highest standards of quality, freshness, seasonality, combines both modern-creative and traditional southern styles of cooking for their customers. Making Money is the main objective of any business and without it the company would go bust. To consistently provide customers with impeccable service by demonstrating warmth, graciousness, efficiency, knowledge, professionalism and integrity in its work. To have every customer who comes through its doors leave impressed by McDonalds and excited to come back again. Most people can find a McDonalds in any metropolitan city anywhere in the world. McDonalds global success can be attributed to company objectives. When consumers are aware of McDonalds objectives, they better understood the value of such a large, global franchise in helping people find employment and in offering a cheap, sustainable product to their consumers. To create and maintain a restaurant that is comprehensive and exceptional in its attention to every detail of operation. Moreover, can provide all who work with them a friendly, cooperative and rewarding environment which encourages long- term, satisfying, growth employment so simple to able make their customers happy. They also need and have trained staff who are supposed to put a smile on the customers faces and who deal with the business side of the company e.g. profits etc. Additionally to provide a consistent and steady source of revenue and income for its shareholders and all related stakeholders. Besides, also to be a responsible corporate citizen and to be an exemplary corporate member in the countries in which it operates. 2.3 McDonalds Social Responsibility Being aware of and act on its responsibilities as a good corporate citizen. McDonalds firmly believes in giving back to the communities in. We love to provide support and encouragement to the people who need it the most. All our restaurants approach to charities and sponsorships. We believe these help inspire the people of Pakistan, especially the underprivileged ones, to live a better life. We are dedicated to delivering great experiences through our ongoing community support programs. Undertake meaningful involvement of McDonalds restaurants in selected charitable activities in its community and region. As supported a school activity recently for Compass-a school for the under privileged children also extended support by providing free food for students at the carnival arranged by the school. All McDonalds products shall be of the highest quality and value, be healthy, nutritious and provided with outstanding personal services at the lowest possible prices consistent with a fair return on investment for shareholders, job enhancement/security for employees and a level of community involvement by everyone connected with its business. Therefore, all products and services shall be delivered consistently and measured one satisfied customer at a time, whether by company-owned or franchised operations, in superior, clean, convenient, fun and friendly neighborhood environments. Eventually, and make McDonalds the best place to eat and the best place to work. To make people realize that the worlds natural resources are fast diminishing and something must be done about it, McDonalds has created a public awareness program called McSaviors.McSaviors has certainly helped in bringing about a sense of awareness in adults that Pakistan faces a shortage of water and electricity and that good care must be taken of these precious resources. All school children are eligible to join McSaviors. They can become members by visiting any McDonalds Restaurant and filling out the registration form. It is also planned to seek the support of schools in further promoting the program. Question 2 Investigate the external environment factors in which this organization is operating. (E.g. using PESTLED tools to analyses the external environment.) 3.0 External Environment Analysis The PESTLE Analysis is a framework used to scan the organizations external environment factor. PESTLE stands for Political, Economical, Social, Technological, Legal and Environmental. 3.1. PESTEL Analysis and Environmental Impact Matrix (Macro Environment) A PESTLE analysis should feed into a SWOT analysis as it helps to determine the threats and opportunities represented by macro-environment forces that the organization usually cannot control. Hence, below table provides an analysis of the external international marketing environment as well as the threats and opportunities of each factor of the fast-food industry. 3.1.1 Political Alarmed by links between poor diet and disease, as well as striking increases in obesity, policymakers, the public, and health professionals have challenged food industry practices. Although many forces contribute to obesity and poor diet, food industry behaviors such as marketing unhealthy foods to children, promoting large portions and between-meal snacks, and exploiting schools for commercial gain have raised calls for government regulation and paved the path for actions such as requiring calorie labeling in restaurants. The menu of McDonald in the pass do not label the nutritions of the food. Hence customers do not aware unhealthy food of fast food that provided by cDonald. Starting in 2006, the fast food behemoth promises to place nutrition information on the packaging of most menu items(R1). Recently, While millions of Americans working low-paying jobs, President Barack Obamas call for a $9 minimum hourly wage were successful in February 2013 (R2). This regulation makes McDonal d not happy because it would reduce revenue of the company and it is a threat to McDonald business. 3.1.2 Economical McDonalds, the worlds largest fast-food chain, reported a decline in an important global sales figure, the first such drop in almost a decade by November 2012(R3). It is an unexpected sharp drop in sales which some restaurants sales fell 2.2 percent in the United States and Europe and declined 2.4 percent in the Asia Pacific, Africa and Middle East regions (R3). However, Global Fast Food Restaurants global market research report provides the latest industry statistics and industry trends, major fast food retailers have responded by expanding the number of healthy options on their menus, the general trend toward health awareness has hurt demand for the typically greasy food provided by the these restaurants. However, the industry experienced steady and growing demand from emerging economies, which boosted the industrys overall performance. Over the five years to 2012, industry revenue will grow at an average annual rate of 2.2% to $499.5 billion(R4). Therefore,the industry report identifies the leading companies globally and offers strategic industry analysis of the key factors influencing the market. Furthermore the unemployment rate of McDonald is decreasing over the five years to 2012 (R5) and the figure is shown in Appendix. Hence, McDonalds is going on a hiring blitz for thousands of jobs in Canada has been announced on 9th April 2013(R6). 3.1.3 Social In the last few decades the number of so-called civilization diseases has dramatically increased. Research has proved that the main cause for these diseases is the change in way of life, including rising stress in a fast paced world and a lack of attention to physical activity and good nutrition. Nutrition and bad dietary habits have the greatest influence on weight gain and obesity, which are serious public health problems because the increased risk of premature death and civilization diseases like heart diseases, high blood pressure and diabetes. The state of health in the European countries was examined, with special focus on Hungary, regarding public health indicators and nutrition habits (R7). The fast-food industry is a favour restaurant for nowadays peoples and has been criticised for providing unhealthy food to consumers and caused obesity in the country. 3.1.4 Technological McDonalds has adopted the use of technology in delivering its fast food to their consumers. The most recent McDonalds technology development has been installing WI-FI hotspots in most of their restaurants globally (R8). This model is made to introduce more young and tech-people into the restaurants creating some what of a starbucks feel, which by the way is free. Besides, Mcdonalds uses a 100% biodiesel technology (R8). Doing this has helped reduce carbon emissions with the truck making the deliveries. Moreover, McDonalds uses Nintendo DS system as a e-learning training tool for their new recruit staff in over 3,000 of their restaurants. These gaming systems train the recruits and grade them on their performance, in which they can compare with other colleagues and view their progress. There are many types of information systems used in McDonalds too such as Transaction Processing System (TPS), Decision support system (DSS), Management Information Systems (MIS), Made for you system, POS system Scale of Point system and Hyperactive Bob system(R9). Transaction system is important to answer routine questions, and it helps to conduct business such as payroll, employee record keeping or paying an employee. Decision support system is used to model data and make quality decision based on the data , making the right decision is usually based on the quality of the data and ones ability to analyze the data. Management information system is a system that provides information needed to manage organizations effectively. In Made for you system when a customer places an order , the sandwich item will immediately appears in the computer monitor in the kitchen and a tone sound to alert the kitchen staff . Point of scale system to ensure fast and accurate order , because this system is used to speed the business process, it can track massive amounts of data in seconds. The Hyperactive Bob system used computers and rooftop cameras to monitor traffic entering a restaurants parking lot and drive-thru. All these technologies used by McDonald are helping in daily business and ensure the business delivers smooth to customers. 3.1.5 Legal McDonalds has been involved in certain of lawsuits and other legal cases in their fast food business. Defamation in the McLibel case was an English lawsuit happened by McDonalds Corporation against environmental activists Helen Steel and David over a pamphlet critical of the company(R10). McDonald was won in the English court. McDonald has been sued a restaurant MacJoy in Phillipines for using a similar restaurant name with McDonald(R11). This is to keep the name of McDonald as their company trademark and copyright in the regulation. McDonald complies with the global operators regulation which are opening hours, taxation and employment in all business country such as real case happened between McDonald and Coalition of Immokalee workers in US (R11). Besides, all global countries are required to meet national food standards such as the requirements set out by the Malaysia Ministry of Health, McDonald food must Halal in Malaysia(R12). Advertisement of McDonald must honour and cannot mislead the consumers (R11). Furthermore, health and safety law is important to ensure workers are working in the safe working environment, McDonald restaurant (R11). 3.1.6 Environmental Environmental activists are promoting go green as well as it is encouraged by most countries governments so McDonald has been introduced go green program such as REDUCE, RE-USE, RECYCLE, DISPOSE. Its better to recycle trash than to throw it away, better to re-use a bottle or bag directly than to recycle it, and best of all to reduce garbage by not generating it in the first place. McDonalds has been whittling away at the thickness of its polystyrene burger containers, straws, and cold drink lids, reducing them on average by 12 percents (R13). McDonald is welcome in every step toward environmental responsibility such as above organized program. 4.0 McDonalds Internal and External Analysis The following framework identifies McDonalds review of the Corrective Action System. For SWOT steps and flow. STRENGHS 1.Ranks very high on the Forture Magazines food service companies that are most admired list. 2.One of the best brand recognition in the world,the golden arches and Ronald McDonald. 3.Global operations all over the world. 4.Cultural diversity in the foods that are provided based on location of the restaurant. 5.Excellent locations in theme parks,airports,Wal-Mart store,and along most well traveled roads. 6.Efficient operating guidelines in the assembly line fashion. 7.Food safety guidelines are strictly adhered to. WEAKNESSES 1.Failing pizza test market thus limiting their ability to complete with fast food pizza providers. 2.Training costs are elevated due to high 3.Very minimal concentration on providing organic foods. 4.Large fluctuations in their net and operating profits making impacts on the investors. 5.Not much variation in seasonal products that are affered. 6.Quality concerns due to franchised operations. 7.Focus on burgers and grease fried foods and not on healthier option for their customers. OPPORTUNITIES 1.Opening more joint ventures with several different retailers. 2.Being more responsive to the social changes to healthier options. 3.advertising the capabilities of Wifi internet services in the branches. 4.Expanding on the advertising in regards to being more socially responsible in the environment. 5.Expansions of business into newly developed parts of the world. 6.Open product up to allergen free options such as peanut free and gluten free foods. 7.Continue to venture into more enticing beverage choices. THREATS 1.Their marketing strategies that entice people from small children all the way to adults and the criticism that they take beause of it. 2.Lawsuts for offering unhealthy foods that have alleged addictive additives. 3.Contamination risks that include the threat of e-coli containments. 4.The vast amount of eat in fast food restaurants that are open as competition. 5.Social changes to a more balanced meal in cluding fruits and vegetables in servings of five per day. 6.Focus on healthier dieting by consumers. 7.Down turn in economy affecting the ability to eat out as much. 4.1 Internal Analysis 4.1.1 Resources and Capabilities A firms resources and capabilities can be measured through identifying its tangible andintangible resources and capabilities within. Tangible and intangible resources aresignificant in implementing firms strategies. It ranges from financial, physical,technological and organizational; while intangible can be human, innovation andreputational assets. Incase of Macdonalds, is the worlds largest chain of hamburgersfast food restaurants, serving nearly 47 million customers daily.The restaurants arefound in 119 countries and territories around the world. McDonalds operates over 31,000restaurants worldwide, employing more than 1.5 million people. Looking at theincreasing popularity especially in South-Asian region it is predicted Macdonalds wouldexpand even further in new countries and unexplored territories. 4.2 External Analysis McDonalds has many opportunities in the external environment due to an increase in eating out, and growth of the hot drinks market. During the recession, McDonalds Informal Eating Out (IEO) market share increased to a record high of 11.5% and a quarter of surveyed teenagers said they purchase fast-food at least once a week (Mintel, 2011). They are a global company operating more than 23,500 restaurants in 109 countries. By being spread out in different regions, this gives them the ability to weather economic fluctuations which are localized by country. They can also operate effectively in an economic downturn due to the social need to seek out comfort foods. Health consciousness trends are a global threat, as McDonalds has been traditionally perceived as offering only fatty food. Recently, some healthier options have been introduced, i.e. salads and wraps, in efforts to shift their position in the consumer eye. However, the brand is still perceived as unhealthy and this poses a continual threat. McDonalds uses only 100% pure USDA inspected beef, no fillers or additives. Additionally the produce is farm fresh. McDonalds serves 100% farm raised chicken no fillers or additives and only grade-A eggs. McDonalds foods are purchased from only certified and inspected suppliers. McDonalds works closely with ranchers, growers and suppliers to ensure food quality and freshness. 5.0 Recommendations Strategic and tactical recommendations for McDonalds. The following table outlines the strategic and tactical recommendations for the future success: Short term (6 months- 1 year) Long-term (1- 5 Years) Developing and expanding business in developing countries with the middle classes Promoting recycling and environmentally friendly program in the internal working environment Adapting the foods according to the cultural and regional taste as well as provide healthy food Encourage social responsibility program for health awareness Loyalty program such as provide discount in happy hour and give free items with loyalty sticker or card Expand business with other healthy food brand 5.1 Short Term Recommendations (6 months 1 year) Growing middle classes in developing country give an opportunity for expanding the business since many western markets are saturated. Besides, McDonald has been focused on the taste of the food according to regional and emerging economies offer multiple opportunities for product adaptation. For example, pastry options in Brazil and cheese products in India could increase sales. Further adaptation of meal size and price will cater for a larger market demographic as well as introduce healthy food in all franchises since health awareness is strictly important around the world. A loyalty program could be used to increase frequency of a customers purchasing. This could be introduced discounts in certain happy hours, or given free items with loyalty sticker or card when over a purchase limit to encourage more purchase. 5.2 Long Term Recommendations (1 5 years) Awareness of environment, environmentally-friendly and ethically-sourced packaging are activated by most global countries. This encourages McDonald provides this knowledge among the workers in a working environment to show difference McDonald culture compare to their competitors. Although McDonalds every year supports social responsibility in ophanant houses, old folks, blind houses in various charities to help weak peoples, further emphasis on charitable work could positively alter customers perception of the brand. Besides, promote health awareness to them with McDonalds products. Expanding the health-conscious fast-food market under the guise of a different brand would secure a larger market share and diversify their business, spreading the risk of failure. 6.0 Conclusion It is argued that effective marketing strategies and tactics cannot be developed withoutfirstly analysing the environment in which the company operates. A number of uncontrollable elements affect McDonalds international marketing strategy and tacticalimplementation. These groups of elements include the PESTLE (political, economic,social, technological, legal and environmental), structure of the market and competition being faced (Porters (1980) five forces analysis) as well as analysis of its stakeholders,customers and product adaptation within its internationalisation strategy. All of theseaspects are crucial to a companys strategic decision making. The level of understandingthat exists in these relationships will determine the success of a company. McDonalds is not making a one-time standardised global choice but it is striking tofind a balance. This is not a straightforward task, as identifying the balance betweenstandardisation and adaptation is a challenge and very difficult to achieve. The goals of reducing costs and complexity lead McDonalds to consider standardisation, whilecustomer orientation sways it towards adaptation. It is evident through the analysis thatMcDonalds is adapting its marketing mix elements in order to go in line with the externalenvironment. At the same time, it should be noted that the company is also standardisingwhen and where possible in its desire to achieve economies of scale and global uniformityand image.With respect to McDonalds internationalisation strategy, the companys effectivenessand profitability is obviously well supported by their strong competitive position andmarket share in their primary product market. Its international success is achieved by thecompanys strategy and tactics, which complement each other and work in harmony, providing the optimum return bounded by efficiency. The company is thriving as it is botheffective (doing things right) and efficient (doing the right thing).McDonalds portfolio of products is well managed and ensures the best fit between thecompanys strengths and weaknesses and for offsetting the threats found in its competitiveenvironment. In considering the strong competitive position of the firm in a highlyattractive market, it is suggested that McDonalds should protect its position (Mckinseymatrix). This can be achieved by concentrating efforts on maintaining its existing strength by investing to grow at maximum digestible rate. It is recommended that McDonalds continue this approach, that is: simultaneouslyfocus its attention on aspects of the business that require global standardisation and aspectsthat demand local responsiveness. When appropriate, processes should be standardised,however, operation in local markets necessitates the maintenance of the appropriate localflexibility.McDonalds is adopting differentiation and cost leadership strategies (genericstrategies). In terms of differentiation, the firm attempts to be diverse from its competitors by adding something to its product that will provide a unique value to its customers. 7.0 References 1) http://www.commondreams.org/views05/1103-23.htm. Last accessed on 12/04/2012 2) http://money.msn.com/now/post.aspx?post=d184c64e-c231-426c-bb2e-8935ebd3ee06. Last accessed on 12/03/2012 3)http://www.nytimes.com/2012/11/09/business/mcdonalds-reports-global-decline-in-sales.html?ref=mcdonaldscorporation. Last accessed on 12/03/2012 4) http://www.ibisworld.com/industry/global/global-fast-food-restaurants.html. Last accessed on 12/03/2012 5) http://research.stlouisfed.org/fred2/series/MOMCDO9URN. Last accessed on 13/03/2012 6) http://www.chch.com/home/item/12412-mcdonalds-hiring-day. Last accessed on 13/03/2012 7) http://ageconsearch.umn.edu/bitstream/44325/2/460.pdf. Last accessed on 13/03/2012 8) http://mcdonaldsteam3.blogspot.com/2010/05/mcdonalds-corp.html. Last accessed on 13/03/2012 9) http://mcdonaldsmis.blogspot.com/p/mcdonalds-is_04.html. Last accessed on 14/03/2012 10) http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/McLibel_Case. Last accessed on 14/03/2012 11) http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/McDonalds_legal_cases. Last accessed on 14/03/2012 12) http://www.mcdonalds.com.my/abtus/CSR.pdf. Last accessed on 15/03/2012 13) http://www.sustainer.org/dhm_archive/index.php?display_article=vn304mcdonaldsed 8.0 Bibliography http://www.aboutmcdonalds.com/mcd/our_company/mission_and_values.html.Last accessed on 8/04/2012 http://retailindustry.about.com/od/retailbestpractices/ig/Company-Mission-Statements/McDonald-s-Restaurants-Mission-Statement.htm. Last accessed on 8/04/2012 http://wiki.answers.com/Q/What_are_the_aims_and_objectives_of_McDonalds.Last accessed on 10/04/2012 http://businesscasestudies.co.uk/mcdonalds-restaurants/the-marketing-process/marketing-objectives.html#axzz2Prg92Wds. Last accessed on 10/04/2012 http://www.mcdonalds.com.pk/page/corporate-social-responsibility. Last accessed on 10/04/2012 http://www.mcdonalds.com.pk/page/corporate-social-resp

Review on Sunrise :: essays papers

Review on Sunrise Introduction to Cinema Studies Assessment Task 2 For this assignment I have chosen question 2 on the discussion of a particular edit. The film I have chosen to discuss is Sunrise, and the edit is from the portion of the film where the lady from the city and the husband are discussing the city at the lake. I chose this particular edit for a couple of reasons the first being that for it’s time the effect it produces is quite remarkable. It’s also the scene that caught my eye and held it for the longest period. Visually rich without the need of sound. The edit flows through a variety of images and the shots that surround it are filled with references and common cliches that get the point across. The edit is graphically continuous as it dissolves from shot to shot without any solid cuts. We begin with the city girl telling the husband that he should come to the city. The scene then dissolves to an image of a huge brass band busily and noisily at play. This shot is in complete contrast to the serenity of the still country and the bright silent moonlight. The edit then continues to dissolve into an angled shot of a city street teeming with people hurriedly about their business. This shot is dissolved with that of the band, creating the feeling of organised chaos. This dissolve reiterates the hustle and bustle feeling of the city in contrast to that of the country. The edit then dissolves back to the scene at the waterfront where the city girl is dancing away to the imagery she has created through her tales to the husband. He stares at her wide-eyed as the cliche’ country person reacts to the big city, almost hypnotically. I believe that this edit encompasses most of the major themes of the film. Firstly we are given a rivalry or good Vs evil, or slow Vs fast, or nature Vs cocnrete. The good countryman meets dazzling evil city girl and is hypnotized by the glitz and glamour. On one hand we are shown the serenity of the lake and through the dissolves we are brought into a fast pace with the band and the people, that finishes with a lakeside jive from the city girl. The edit creates an increasing rhythmic relationship. It gives you the feel of stepping on the gas pedal. It starts at a solid stable shot that in its entirety from still water to still people gives us the feeling of dead calm.

The Jungle :: essays research papers

The Jungle by Upton Sinclair   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  If you are or you know someone that is an immigrant to this country, then you know the struggles and hardships that one must face. Forget the language barrier, problems such as no money, no food or shelter, even no job are all brutal circumstances. All these problems are tough to surpass, and doing so is a task in itself. In The Jungle Upton Sinclair portrays all the problems that a Lithuanian family must encounter to survive. This novel reflects the time period, the conflicts around the country, and the conflicts of a family struggling to survive. A truly great novel in my opinion, The Jungle should be read by everyone for enjoyment, and even for knowledge.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The main characters in this novel are a immigrant family from Lithuania. The family consisting of Jurgis and Antanas Rudkus, Ona and Elizabeth Lukoszaite (with all six of her children), and many personal friends and enemies of the family. The Lukoszaite family have come to America to gain wealth after their recent death of their father. Jurgis who is madly in love with Ona comes along with his father to America. A family from the poor roots of Lithuania come oversees to seek great wealth and success in the United States, escaping the slums of their native country. The setting is in Chicago, in the town of Packingtown.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Escaping poverty in their native country, with a heartbreaking loss of a family member, the entire group packs up and heads for the highway so to speak to achieve wealth in America. The novel begins with a lovely wedding between Ona and Jurgis. The reception followed tradition, but the younger generation didn’t participate in the usual customs of a wedding. This just went to show how different the two countries really are. Struggling to pay the cost of the reception, everyone must leave early to go to work the next morning, including the wife and groom. Of all the family members, Jurgis is the most suited for the job because he is physically fit and has a workers attitude. The children are to go to school, and the women would have to find a job. With the help of Jonas, who is the brother of Elizabeth, the family finds a rotten apartment in a rat infested, run down building. Jurgis decides to spend the remaining of their money to buy a house because a

Essays --

The populist and nationalist ideology of the Iranian Islamic revolution was attributed to the perception of a plague that has alienated Muslims from their roots and identity, and this plague was the Western culture. Western culture was a plague that must be fought and expelled as it influenced many young Iranians and deviate from the interpretation of Islam. To bring back the loyalty and faith to Islam as the one true way of awakening the oppressed and liberating the Third World from colonialism is a great manifestation of revolt and declaration. Ayatollah Khomeini dominated the revolution itself declaring that Shia Islam dictated for revolt and martyrdom against injustice and tyranny. He advocated for Muslims to reject the influence of the Soviet and American superpowers in Iran and developed the ideology that Muslims required guardianship. The Islamic jurists must rule to protect Islam from innovation and deviation by following the traditional sharia law and prevent poverty, injustice, and the deprivation of Muslim land by foreign non-believers. The establishment of and the obedience to the Islamic government were considered to be an actual obedience to God that was more necessary than prayer and fasting. The universal principle of true Islam was that the world only needed and deserved a just and true government which was the Islamic government. This revolutionary vision and ideology were supported by Khomeini and a great number of core supporters who were determined to establish a government ruled by Islamic clerics and defeated opposition from the different factions. America’s deep involvement in Iran for many years before the revolution was only for personal gain through government influence and through control of I... ...regime’s desire to recreate man was carried out with ideas of order and justice which revealed the true nature of its devastating power. Revolutionary Islamic justice is founded on the rejection of the concept of the individual as a juridical and moral person and was greatly manifested in the courts of the Islamic Republic as it rejected due process. Due process considers man as an autonomous and a fallible being and the denial of this logic is denial of due process. Khomeini’s regime saw the termination of the existence of many who resisted its ideology and protesting in the name of free will and freedom of conscience. It is therefore concluded that the Islamic rebels against God’s will by denying the existence of the very human beings He created; that the Revolutionary Islamist justice is ignorant of the true spirit of the traditional Muslim jurisprudence.

Anti Obama Care Persuasive Speech

On July 25th President Obama paid a visit to the town of Jacksonville, Florida home to a large percentage of goods imported and exported that helps fuel the economy. The purpose of his visit was to indoctrinate the principle of Obama Care. In his speech the president informed the public of an agglomeration of ideas as to why Obama Care will help the economy. And like most of his ideas it requires more spending and a bigger wage for the federal government.As most hardworking Americans know the government does like to take its eye off the financial difficulties of the middle class. But in reality the most devastating impact on the economy is the future existence of Obama Care. When Obama care is put into use this will require every American to have health insurance. And if not they will have to pay 90$ a month or up to 1% of their salary. Mr. President with unemployment at 7. 6% how is it constitutional to force millions of Americans to pay for insurance they simply cannot afford? The answer is it’s not.The Obamacare law mandates that individuals must maintain health ­insurance coverage for themselves and their dependents or pay a penalty. Similarly, it requires employers with 50 or more full ­time workers to provide those workers with health ­insurance coverage. When obama was sworn into office he took and oath that stated â€Å"I do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will faithfully execute the Office of President of the United States, and will to the best of my ability, preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States†

Living Story Essay

The development of Georgetown has attracted many tourists flocking here to scan the place. However, the increased new openings of shop lots have given the town a new lease of life in addition to its tonnes of heritage buildings. By chance Wu Han Ren, Ru Zhi Xing and Lee Wu Xin talked about the town and what was missing from it. That brought 14 Living Story back to life, to showcase the day-to-day living of Old Georgetown. Since Ru and Lee have been working in Shanghai, China, they have to travel to various places regularly and have visited the fabled Xin Tian Di, a place that holds the historical and cultural legacies of the Chinese metropolis. The enclave also gave the duo an idea that Penang could actually become some place like that. â€Å"Along the road in many tourist attractions in other countries, we would see stalls selling local delicacies and souvenirs which make the place all the more vibrant. â€Å"However, tourists visiting Penang will only be greeted by rows of listless shophouses, warehouses and empty residences, many of which are uninhabited and locked. † Living museum It was August 2009 when Wu, Ru and Lee decided to set up a living museum in town. They had looked at many different locations and finally decided on the shophouse beside Seh Tek Tong Cheah Kongsi on Armenian Street. â€Å"The tenancy contract of the house was about to expire when we contacted the owner. We picked the house because it exuded the feelings of an old building. â€Å"It has been found that the house could have been built in the 1850s and is at least 150 years old today! † Wu said the house was formerly used to accommodate foreign workers. Despite its location in the heart of Old Georgetown, the house has never been put to proper use. Since the original house was quite shabby, they requested the owner to do some renovation and they later tore down the room partitions to make the old house more spacious. Day-to-day living The living museum is divided into three parts where the front part of ground floor is used for the sale of souvenirs, day-to-day items and handcrafts. The rear part of the house has been specifically designed for the display of artistic exhibits. Since old houses in Penang were designed largely in Chinese style and in particular Shanghainese style, many Shanghainese memorabilia could still be found in these houses. Wu hopes to recreate the first floor of the house into a museum showcasing the day-to-day living of Old Penang by next year so that tourists could get a better understanding of life in Old Penang. In order to promote reuse and recycling, all the furniture inside the house have either been donated by people or picked up by them. Wu admitted that local tourists are not too keen to buy the souvenirs and handicrafts as they are more interested in the furnishings and designs of the building. On the contrary, foreigners are more avid in buying the souvenirs. â€Å"I hope more people will harness the advantages of Georgetown to open more unique shops to promote the local cultural heritage at the same time luring more tourists here. † Shop Briefly Menu Penang Buses Ticket 70’s~80’s, exhibit in 14 Living Story Taishogoto (Japan) /Bulbul Tarang (India) The taishogoto or Nagoya harp, is a Japanese stringed musical instrument. The name derives from the Taisho period (1912–1926) when the instrument first appeared. It has also become naturalized in East Africa, often under the name Taishokoto. The taishogoto consists of a long, hollow box with strings running its length. Above the strings are a span of numbered typewriter-like keys, which when depressed fret or shorten the strings to raise their pitch. It is played lengthwise and strummed. There are also electrified versions of the instrument. The taishogoto bears a close resemblance to the Bulbul Tarang from India, and the Akkordolia from Germany, all sharing the same principle of using keys to press down on strings to change their pitch. Handmade Passport Cover Handmade Curtain (only 6 pieces) Handmade Table Mat Penang Marriage Certificate from 1940 Penang Lottery Tickets 70’s~80’s

Video Vault Case

Introduction: The Video Vault was dominant is the location of major route connecting Westborough to the neighbour communities of Hopkinton and Upton with floor space at 750 square feet, the owners were innovative in displaying their roughly 10,000 units (or 8,000 titles) of inventory, 700 of which were in the DVD format. Peaslee and St. Angelo had 6,000 registered customers, with about half that number being active renters. In order to rent videos at the store, customers provided a credit card number or a $35 deposit, protecting the business against unreturned product or unpaid late fees. New releases, adult videos, and video games rented for $4 per day, catalogue titles rented for $3 per day. The average late fee was $2. 75. Total late fees in 2001 were $6,133. Supply chain performances In revenue sharing contract, the store shares the revenue from the customer with the studio through which it gets its inventory. The widespread use of revenue sharing fundamentally changed the economics of the industry. Under this, distributors sold the tape to the retailer at a much lower price- from $3 to $8 per tape- in return for a percentage of the rental revenue and a percentage of eventual used-tape sales to consumer. But as the same time there were some disadvantages that were came with revenue sharing contract. Store had to share data with the studio and also had to keep maximum and minimum inventory of inventory as per the contract which diluted the controllability of store owners. Since they opened their store, Peaslee and St. Angelo had seen the regular distribution channels and pricing change dramatically. In the past, the partners bought roughly 150 to 200 titles per year, one-third from established distributors that bought directly from studios, and the rest from â€Å"sideways selling†Ã¢â‚¬â€a practice of buying product from other video stores, retailers, or individual traders. The top tier A titles were roughly $70 from distributors and were shipped to stores prior to the video rental release date. Buying product from other avenues resulted in lower prices, but it could take weeks or months after the release date to obtain copies. During 2000 and 2001, however, the Video Vault bought 90% of its product directly from studios, with a few distributors acting as â€Å"fulfillment centers,† shipping product from studios without owning it

We All Fall Down – Plus Related Text

Nelson Mandela, Former South African President, said â€Å"After climbing a great hill, one only finds that there are many more hills to climb† a journey is full of obstacles, Mandela believed this on his quest to unify the South African people whether they were black or white, he aimed to make them one. For a journey to be effective, they require self-belief and perseverance, when you fall down you have to get back up, and the most important thing that will inspire and influence a change is the reflection one undergoes once it has come to an end.Robert Cormier author of We All Fall Down, Clint Eastwood, director of Invictus and Rosemary Dobson, the poet behind Folding the Sheets all relate their pieces of work to a journey directly or indirectly. In Robert Cormier’s We All Fall Down he uses character development to express a journey. Two key journeys that are represented are the ones in which relate to Buddy Walker and Harry Flowers. Buddy has a problem with alcoholism and his dysfunctional family due to his father walking out on them.Harry is a manipulative character and he acts like he can control anyone especially Buddy. It is ironic that Cormier gave Buddy the last name Walker to demonstrate that it was inevitable that Buddy’s father was going to walk out on them and contribute to what fuels Buddy to drink. The relationship between Buddy and Harry is subtle and hidden as they don’t share many things in common apart from the fact that they are both lost and don’t seem to fit in.Although once compared to each other after the trashing of Karen and Jane’s house Buddy shows the beginning of his development through his feeling of guilt and demonstrating that he has some part of human respect in him, Harry on the other hand doesn’t show any remorse and continues on with his life not caring about how he acts and how he always gets his way. One of Buddy’s major developing moments is when he begins to move away from the group and continues to follow his own path rather than joining in with drinking and the other plans they make.Buddy’s two major inspirations to stop his drinking are Jane and Addy, Addy finds Buddy’s bottles and hides them and will not give them back to him and states â€Å"the sins of omission† the sin of doing nothing. Buddy won Jane on the base that he would give up drinking for her, although he still drinks it isn’t as meaningful compared to the relationship he has with Jane. Harry changes dramatically as through out the novel he has a key moment at the end of the novel after Jane breaks up with Buddy.Harry calls Jane and says â€Å"I took advantage of his shitty life†¦ he is a good guy and don’t be so hard on him† this shows that Harry has began to show remorse on his actions during the trashing is on a â€Å"road to recovery†. The similarity between all of the characters and journeys in this novel is that they all want to belong. Similarly to We All Fall Down, Invictus also follows a journey of wanting to belong, reconciliation, and progression. Nelson Mandela was a prisoner for several years and on his release made President of South Africa.Eastwood used Mandela and Francois Pienaar as key protagonists to bring two divided nations within the one together. Eastwood uses character development to represent the journey of unity. Black against white. Mandela’s goal was to unite South Africa and create equality for black and white people. â€Å"he’s unlike any person I’ve ever met† Mandela is not any ordinay person, he inspired an entire group of people to fight for rights and at the end of the film this is achieved. â€Å"The Rainbow Nation starts here. Reconciliation starts here.Forgiveness starts here too. † Mandela always believed in creation the Rainbow Nation, he was motivated and was inspired. His inspiration inspired he rest of South Africa. Eastwood use s the Rugby as Mandela’s message to the world, he uses Pienaar as a way to get to his team and unify them to share his views on black and white South Africa. The key part to Mandela’s success is the fact he spent several years in prison sacrificing a significant amount of time in his life to change the nation, and change it he did. Undefeated, Unconquerable, Invictus.Mandela wasn’t defeated, he wasn’t conquered but he conquered the South African common attitude and changed it to create equality for black people. â€Å"The Rainbow Nation starts here. † Mandela inspired a nation and the world, helped Pienaar motivate his team an his country to support them trough a rough time and lead themselves to the victory and the glory of winning the World Cup and gave something to all South Africans to share, a reborn nation and the glory of success. Invictus and Folding the Sheets share the similarity of recognising unity.The unity of a nation and the unity of a world and the elements. Dobson uses unity to represent her journey â€Å"from Lapland†¦ to India†. Dobson’s message in her poem is achieving world peace and unity â€Å"You and I will fold the sheets†. He folding of the sheet represents a job that is hard to be completed by ones elf but requires several people to make it easy if they work together, which also relates to how we can work together to achieve world peace and unity between all nations rich or poor, great or weak.The use of mentioning three of the elements earlier on it the poem and stating the fourth in the end represents unity and the coming together of a balance of the earth which van also relate to the coming together of the world â€Å"Together we will match the corners†, it is not possible to achieve unity single handed, it requires a shared belief in achieving it. These three text-types all relate to journeys as they share the commonality of unity and character development.They s how how a journey can either be completed by moving away from people and showing you can stand for yourself and not be controlled by a manipulator, or if you wish to achieve unity or justice then you cant change the world or a nation by your self, you require to share a common belief that it can be done. In their own unique ways We all Fall Down, Invictus and Folding the Sheets all relate to a journey. The two texts and the film all show that we encounter heartache along the way but perseverance and motivation can help us continue no matter how hard the path ahead is.

Information systems security management Research Paper

Information systems security management - Research Paper Example In 1915, there were 250 automobile manufactures in the United State that were utilizing information technology on large bases. By the 1994, this figure had increased up till 500 automobiles. In the field of telecommunication, around 2000 radio stations across the United States were found (Laudon, 2011). In 1925, these radio stations were broadcasting to local neighborhoods and run by non-professionals. By the year 1990, only 500 independent stations were functioning. Therefore, it is clear that the e-commerce will follow the same pattern along with some noticeable difference that is discussed further (Laudon, 2011). The development in the field of e-commerce has been increased significantly, but it is also not obvious that this field will tend to grow on this rate forever. Moreover, its growth will be limited in future as it is confronting its own fundamental limitations. For example, the B2C e-commerce is still a small part around 3% of the net retail market. In fact, in 2008, all t he B2C e-commerce will approximately equal to the annual revenue under recent projections. This research includes Wal-Mart, which is the world’s largest and most effective retailer. On the contrary, with the only 3% of the entire retail sales, it is now introducing online methods (Laudon, 2011). Early Years of E-Commerce E-Commerce Today Technology-driven Business-driven Revenue growth emphasis Earnings and profits emphasis Venture capital financing Traditional financing Ungoverned Stronger regulation and governance Entrepreneurial Large traditional firms Disintermediation Strengthening intermediaries Perfect markets Imperfect markets, brands, and network effects Pure online strategies Integrated, multi-channel bricks-and-clicks strategies First mover advantages Strategic follower strength; complimentary assets Figure 1.1 1.1 Emphasizing Privacy One more study shows that online companies emphasize and focus more on online privacy policy rather than any other aspect. Even onli ne security is considered as the second option. Moreover, the study also concluded that online customers are more worried about their privacy rather than online threats as they are considered to be in control. In addition, the study also demonstrated a comparison between the two decades, i.e. 1999-2001 and 2005-2007, which highlighted the factors that are mentioned previously (Parayitam, Desai, & Desai, 2008). 1.2 Focusing on Customer Demands However, study concluded one interesting factor, i.e. the rankings and ratings of policies created for the Internet continues to focus on demands of the web users. Moreover, consumer privacy continues to be on top in both the decades (Parayitam, Desai, & Desai, 2008). The amplified awareness by the contributors, i.e. legislators and advocates, shows that the interest level is comparatively high. 2 Technology Infrastructure E-commerce is also described as the development and growth of digital computing, and communications technology is at the co re of modern technology of global digital economy. In order to understand the future of the digital e-commerce, we need to understand the technological basics on which it is dependent. The e-commerce is, basically, a technological motivated phenomenon that depends on a cloud of information technologies. Moreover, the fundamental ideas from computer science have developed this over for a