Friday, December 27, 2019
Christianity A Christian Nation - 1188 Words
Following Jesus in America seems to be a very touchy subject in todayââ¬â¢s time. Freedom of religion is practiced in America, and Americans are encouraged to practice whatever they choose. John Fea and Stephen Prothero debate the topics of America being founded as a Christian Nation and the idea of Jesus being followed in America. America was and is Christian, still, but was not founded on Christianity. Fea does not answer the question regarding America being founded as a Christian nation (Fea 245). Prothero gives some opinion about Jesus in America, but says Jesus is viewed different in the eyes of many Americans (Prothero 9). As much as I want to think that America was founded as a Christian nation, I cannot agree with it. The people who created the constitution may have had some Christian principals, but the constitution has no evidence of God in it. In the sense of Jesus, Americans do not follow Him in a certain way. Jesus is made out to be the person that suits anyoneââ¬â ¢s identity at his or her discretion. One of the most interesting traits of Feaââ¬â¢s Was America Founded as a Christian Nation is not giving a definitive answer to the question he is debating (Fea 245). Fea gives examples to make the reader think and come to a decision on their own. Although Fea gives the opportunity for the reader to make the decision on his or her own, he gives examples to support each side of the argument. An example that supports the argument comes from the beginning of the book when FeaShow MoreRelatedAmerica s Identity Of A Christian Nation1234 Words à |à 5 Pagestime, America could be seen as a culture vulture. As far as religion goes, there are several different ways to approach this question was America founded as a Christian nation? And should it pursue a unique identity of a Christian Nation? To answer this question thoroughly in my opinion, I felt that America wasnââ¬â¢t founded as a Christian nation along with other influences that were here first. The reason I say this, is because we use to have Indian tribes and they had their beliefs that seemed to alreadyRead More The Emergence and Africanization of Catholic Christianity in the Kongo1383 Words à |à 6 PagesAfricanization of Catholic Christianity in the Kongo When the nation of Kongo ââ¬Å"convertedâ⬠to Christianity around the turn of the 16th century, the Catholicism that developed over the next century is best understood as primarily a superficial layer added onto Kongolese traditional religion. The kings of Kongo did not try to replace previous beliefs and practices with Christianity, nor did they simply mask their traditional religion, but rather they incorporated Christian doctrines, rituals, andRead MoreHow Religion Can Boost Gdp By Increasing Trust Within A Society1225 Words à |à 5 PagesChristianity is by far the largest religious group which is then followed closely by Islam. All over the world, Christianity seems to be growing more and more steadily. It also seems that in some cases, it actually boosts an economy positively. It was stated in ââ¬Å"The Telegraphâ⬠that by the year 2030 China will become the worlds most ââ¬Å"Christian Nation.â⬠Even though the United States is currently the largest Christ ian nation in the world, it will soon become second to China. Yes so called communistRead MoreUnderstanding the Relation Between Judaism and Christianity844 Words à |à 4 Pages Being educated Christian means knowing the overall aspects of Christianity. There are many aspects of Christianity that roots back to Judaism Both historically and theologically; Christianity shares a tie with Judaism. It is undeniable that historically Christianity roots back to Judaism. And theologically, it shares the same divine god and its early preaching. The customs and traditions that early Christians followed were mostly Jewish traditions. However, over the time, both religions grew upRead MorePaganism In Beowulf1182 Words à |à 5 PagesIn the epic poem Beowulf the poem depicts the time in religious history where Christian and pagan beliefs were introduced to society. This poem was written in the time of the Anglo-Saxon period where pagan was the preferred religion. In later years as time gradually passed, Christianity became one of the more favored religions. Beowulf contains many elements of both religions. Though paganism was very popular throughout this poem, it showe d a mixture of the two beliefs. These beliefs played a majorRead MoreThe Word ââ¬Å"Godâ⬠Or ââ¬Å"Christianityâ⬠Is Often Thrown Around1274 Words à |à 6 PagesThe word ââ¬Å"Godâ⬠or ââ¬Å"Christianityâ⬠is often thrown around in the political world today. Candidates often can be seen supporting the invasions of other nations, but then claiming a strong devotion to God only a few moments later. The question is, ââ¬Å"how has America become such a broken nation with such distorted views of the role of Christianity?â⬠The emergent idea of America as a Christian nation is an important and relevant issue with many possible consequences. In reality, there are many cultural andRead MoreEssay about Christian Tradition: THe Importance of Baptism789 Words à |à 4 PagesIn a contemporary Christian environment one of the most prominent practices to have a significant contribution to Christianity as a living religious tradition is Baptism. Baptism is of utmo st importance for most Christian denominations. It has profound significance for the individual who is baptised and is also important for the Christian community as a whole. As a sacrament of initiation, Baptism calls its adherents to become missionary Disciples of Christ. It is through baptism that oneââ¬â¢s faithRead MoreReflecting On Judaism As A Christian975 Words à |à 4 PagesReflecting on Judaism as a Christian As I have learned about my Christian faith, I have always wondered why Christianity does not fall more in line with the Judaism, their traditions, and their celebration of their festivals. The Bible calls the Israelites Godââ¬â¢s chosen people, and throughout the Old Testament He shows His love for them by the way He led them by a pillar of smoke by day and by a pillar of fire at night. Comparing the old covenant to the new covenant, the Bible says ââ¬Å"not like theRead MoreA Complex Relationship Between Jews And Christians926 Words à |à 4 PagesInvestigating Judaism Essay A complex relationship between Jews and Christians has existed from the beginning of Christianity. The displacement of the Jews throughout their history has not dampened the maintenance of their exceptional identity. They keep their individuality by adherence to the way of the Torah (Lecture 2, 2014). Christianity and Judaism share a common ground in that they are both ancient religions, much of the Jewish and Christian laws have had to be revitalized to fit the changing timesRead MoreA Christian Nation Through The Eyes Of A Son Of Indian Immigrants991 Words à |à 4 PagesA Christian Nation Through the Eyes of a Son of Indian Immigrants Nobody can truly realize the influence Christianity has on daily life around the world quite like one who can be considered an ââ¬Å"outsiderâ⬠. My parents are Sikh immigrants from the Punjab region of India. Even being raised in a Sikh family, I was always familiar with the religion. Our school breaks were scheduled around Christian holidays, we said the Lordââ¬â¢s Prayer before all of our football games, and I was even taken to church, where
Thursday, December 19, 2019
Analysis Of The Article Thank God For The Atom Bomb
The atom bomb is a bomb that derives its destructive power from the rapid release of nuclear energy by fission of heavy atomic nuclei, causing damage through heat, blast, and radioactivity. To create this weapon of mass destruction the government started the Manhattan Project and the main mastermind behind this project was Robert Oppenheimer. The project lasted from 1942 to 1946 and its goal was to create the first nuclear weapons for World War II. On August 6, 1945, the American bomber Enola Gay dropped an atomic bomb over the Japanese city of Hiroshima and killed 80,000 people. On August 9, 1945, another bomb was dropped on the city of Nagasaki, killing 40,000 more people. Then a few days later, Japan announced its surrender from World War II. In the article ââ¬Å"Thank God for the Atom Bombâ⬠by Paul Fussell he explains how the atom bomb needed to be dropped to save soldiers lives and to end the war. Paul Fussell was a twenty-one year old second infantry lieutenant during Wo rld War II and he saw all the horrors of combat first hand. He was leading a rifle platoon and his division was to take part in the invasion of Honshu. He had become very injured during the German War and because of it he could barley jump. When him and the rest of the soldiers learned the atomic bomb was going to be dropped and they wouldnââ¬â¢t have to continue fighting they cried tears of relief. Fussell thought to himself ââ¬Å"We are going to live. We were going to grow to adulthood after all.â⬠Fussell knew andShow MoreRelatedTechnology Essay11684 Words à |à 47 Pageslaundry, etc. You and I belong in the kitchen and doing laundry. :-) à Daily live is benefited by advances of technology, and it is also true that professional fields are enhanced by it. A professional field that is enhanced by technology is medicine. Thanks to advances in technology, many diseases that beforeà were the cause of massive death, nowà are things of the past. With the advances in technology,à scientistsà and doctors find different vaccines to help people be healthier. The medical ... Most importantlyRead MoreOne Significant Change That Has Occurred in the World Between 1900 and 2005. Explain the Impact This Change Has Made on Our Lives and Why It Is an Important Change.163893 Words à |à 656 Pageslamentable. Taken together, the key themes and processes that have been selected as the focus for each of the eight essays provide a way to conceptualize the twentieth century as a coherent unit for teaching, as well as for written narrative and analysis. Though they do not exhaust the crucial strands of historical development that tie the century togetherââ¬âone could add, for example, nationalism and decolonizationââ¬âthey cover in depth the defining phenomena of that epoch, which, as the essays demonstrateRead MoreGp Essay Mainpoints24643 Words à |à 99 Pagesnegative light. Foxââ¬â¢s anchorman compared the logo of the recent nuclear technology forums, approved by President Obama, with the Muslim crescent, accusing Obama of having Muslim inclinations. The logo, in fact, was a representation of the scientific atom and had nothing to do with religion whatsoever. â⬠¢ Government-regulated â⬠¢ E.g. With the tight regulations and censorship procedures on media put in place by the Iranian government in the lead-up to the 2009 Presidential elections, any news ofRead MoreImpact of Science on Society38427 Words à |à 154 Pagesthe UK and the US. The series, which took a year of research and another year to film at more than 100 locations in 22 countries, surveyed the history of technology and social change by tracing the evolution of eight major modern inventions: The atom bomb, telecommunications, computers, production lines, jet aircraft, plastics, rocketry, and television. In 1980 Burke wrote and presented Burke: The Real Thing, a BBC six-part series on reality and human perception. He is a regular contributor to suchRead MoreImpact of Science on Society38421 Words à |à 154 Pagesthe UK and the US. The series, which took a year of research and another year to film at more than 100 locations in 22 countries, surveyed the history of technology and social chang e by tracing the evolution of eight major modern inventions: The atom bomb, telecommunications, computers, production lines, jet aircraft, plastics, rocketry, and television. In 1980 Burke wrote and presented Burke: The Real Thing, a BBC six-part series on reality and human perception. He is a regular contributor to suchRead MoreLogical Reasoning189930 Words à |à 760 Pagesbut with making choices, assessing reasons, seeking advice, etc. Dowden gets the balance and the emphasis right. Norman Swartz, Simon Fraser University v Acknowledgments For the 1993 edition: The following friends and colleagues deserve thanks for their help and encouragement with this project: Clifford Anderson, Hellan Roth Dowden, Louise Dowden, Robert Foreman, Richard Gould, Kenneth King, Marjorie Lee, Elizabeth Perry, Heidi Wackerli, Perry Weddle, Tiffany Whetstone, and the following
Wednesday, December 11, 2019
Marketing Management Case Study of Dawson Falls Mountain Lodge
Question: Discuss about the Marketing Management for the Case Study of Dawson Falls Mountain Lodge. Answer: Introduction This case study aims at developing a strategic marketing plan of Dawson Falls Mountain Lodge. The Lodge is located in the foothills of Mount Taranaki. The hotel is in Egmont National Park at the end of Manaia Road (Dawsonfallsmountainlodge, 2016). The hotel has only ten guest rooms each with the ensuite and provides premier accommodation. The boutique wants to expand its rooms to 15 and provide exclusive packages for tramping. The lodge wants its guests to enjoy the spectacular natural beauty of the place. It wants to provide adventure packages to the visitors within the pristine national park. The objective of the report is to make a strategic plan for the lodge. The case study would analyze the behavior of the customers to frame a market strategy for the boutique hotel. It would give a critical view of the promotional strategies that will be introduced to ensure channel growth, earn profits, and increase revenue management. The report shall use Walshs Research Opportunity system al ong with Kozak and Martin's to fulfill the objective. Strategic marketing plan for the next 3-5 years Strategic planning is a mode of marketing which is a disciplined, deliberative effort of an organization to produce key actions and decisions that would shape and guide the organization. Strategic planning helps the leaders of an organization to determine, identify, and achieve the goals and objectives of future. The plans change from time to time and are dependent upon the policies of the organization. In fact, strategic planning is an approach which comprises concepts, leadership roles, tools, and procedures that must be planned carefully and followed to achieve the desired goals (Armstrong et al., 2012). In this section, the strategic marketing plan of Dawson Falls Mountain Lodge for the next 3-5 years would be analyzed. PEST Analysis of New Zealand It is of utmost importance to understand the political, economic, social, and technological condition of a country to set up any business or frame a strategic plan for any business. The following table gives a detailed PEST analysis of New Zealand: Political The political situation of a country is a paramount factor to drive tourists in any country. Political factors determine the flow of visitors. National and local tourists are the major customers of Dawson Falls Mountain Lodge. The steps taken by the government in the recent years shows the interest to draw more visitors to the pristine place. Economic The economic condition of a country is another determinant of tourism. Tourists need to spend a lump sum of money to come to these places and stay at such boutique hotels. Statistics say that the average tariff rate of New Zealand is 1.4%. The government gives a right amount of flexibility for businesses. The average household income is $85,000 which is higher than the median income which is $68,600. The average household income has risen since the past few years. The inflation rate is 1%. Moreover, the currency exchange rate of New Zealand dollars is pretty high compared to other countries. All these positive economic factors attract more tourists to this country every year. Social The social and cultural environment also plays a crucial role in determining the number of visitors in a particular place. Since the people of New Zealand love nature and like to spend their time in the lap of nature, they prefer boutique hotels like Dawson Lodge compared to other hotels. This interest of people gives a scope to the boutique hotels to expand the business. Technological With the rise in the use of latest technology, people are becoming more and more tech-savvy. The citizens of New Zealand are well versed with latest technologies and use them to the fullest. People all over the world use the internet and online booking system. This technological aid would help attract more and more tourists. Home website of a company or a hotel like Dawson Lodge would always be beneficial to promote business as people would be able to get access to information about the lodge without any hassle. Moreover, booking a lodge in advance is the best option for a tourist to spend a hassle-free vacation. Thus, technological factors play a crucial role in improving and expanding the business. Consumer behaviour It is imperative to determine and understand the behavioral patterns of the target audience or the customers. The management must frame its strategic market plan based on their clients. According to the Recreational Opportunity Spectrum, the culture of a place plays a very crucial role in understanding the behavior and need of customers. The cultural environment of a place would influence the family and friends of a client. It is vital to understand the cultural factors to adapt marketing strategies. The demand varies from person to person (Bergek et al., 2013). The consumer behaviour is affected largely by environmental factors, buyers factors, and the buyers response factors. Moreover, their personal characteristics of the consumer such as nationality, ethnicity, religion, age, gender, occupation, lifestyle, attitudes, and beliefs also affect the Hotels management. The recreational opportunity such as the combination of biological, social, managerial and physical conditions add value to a place. Natural qualities such as topography, landscape, vegetation, and scenery attract potential customers. A combination of all these qualities would provide better opportunities for recreation. The basic idea is that an organization must understand and fulfill the needs of its customers. However, the requirements may vary from person to person, and one must be careful about them. Therefore, it is imperative that the opportunities are well planned and well classified(Hays et al., 2013). Since places like New Zealand, Australia, or the United States are surrounded by natural beauty, it is easier to increase the recreational activities to boost tourism. The Department of Conservation in New Zealand puts a great emphasis on recreational activities to promote tourism. The ROS is used as a tool to determine consumer behavior. Since the customer behavior affects the business of a hotel, it is imperative to lay emphasis on customer choice (Hopkins, 2014). The website of Dawson Falls Mountain Lodge The site of Dawson Falls is very informative. The site has provision for instant online booking. It also has a phone number. Moreover, the management team can speak as many as five languages. This increases the diversity of the Lodge. The Lodge also has a Cafe and a restaurant. So visitors do not need to go anywhere else to take their food. The website has every possible detail along with photos. This would help the customers to have a prior view of the Lodge. The website also has a provision for entry in the guestbook. It has a link to its Facebook page. Hence, the site visitors can have a better insight. The website also gives a map of the region. Moreover, it has a gallery, directions to visit the place, booking provision which puts it an advantageous position. It also gives details about the available rooms and their rates. For any booking related query, the customers can call the manager and resolve them. In the gallery section, one can find some pristine pictures of the region. In the about us section, the host has provided a brief description of the resort. There are three attractive locations near the hotel. They are the pioneer village, Envirofur (Possum factory), and Tawhiti Museum (Dawsonfallsmountainlodge,2016). Possible targets for Dawson Falls Mountain Lodge through the website An analysis of the internet site of Dawson Falls Mountain Lodge shows that the resort focuses more on quality than cost. The Management always strives to improve the quality of the service and meet their needs. In addition to this, the analysis also reveals that the resort aims to impress its high end customers. The luxury and facilities have resulted in high cost of the rooms. Thus, it is almost impossible to people of middle classes to afford a room at the Lodge. Thus, one can say that the Lodge is missing its middle-income level target (Dawsonfallsmountainlodge, 2016). Message of the website The management, through its website, tries to send the message that the tourists can enjoy the rich heritage and natural beauty of the place while relaxing in Swiss style suits. People from all over the world can interact with each other and enjoy local cuisine and other delicacies with each other. The hotel ensures a home-like experience at the resort along with all the comforts and luxuries. It has been mentioned on the company website that "It is a privilege for our family to welcome you as guests in our home and to have the pleasure to share this beautiful part of our country. Our hope, on your way down the mountain, is that you carry with you two of lives precious gifts - fond memories and new friends" (Dawsonfallsmountainlodge,2016). Recreational Opportunity Spectrum in the Taranaki region The Taranaki region is situated in the wilderness of Egmont National Park. The mountain is a dense one with temperate rain forests. Since the area is densely covered up with forests, one can find a wide range of flora and fauna in this region. One can see a spectacular view of the conical volcanic shaped mountain from the boutique hotel. ROS encompasses seven elements which are naturalness, remoteness, access, visitor management, site management, visitor impacts, and social management (So et al., 2015). A combination of all the above mentioned factors would entice customers for a visit. The hotel must gain economic, social, cultural, and health benefits to attract more and more customers. The hotel can gain more tourists through indoor and outdoor recreational activities. It can give its customers their best time by giving them a secluded camping ground. It can provide options like strolling around the park, hand feeding farm animals, a peaceful breakfast with some Devonshire tea. To urists can enjoy a tribal dance or some fun family activities. The hotel can also arrange for some events and shows in the evening. They can enjoy forest stories at night. People can participate in outdoor recreational activities like: Sightseeing Mountain biking and cycling Hiking Camping Tramping River rafting Surfing Boating Skiing It is vital to motivate recreational activities because it has health, social, cultural, and economic benefits. Recreational activities help in providing a healthy and balanced life as they are a mode of exercise and fun. One may release his/her tension, stress, and anxiety and enjoy the bountiful nature. Moreover, recreational activities are a fun way to socialize and connect with friends, families, and even strangers. Economically, outdoor recreation helps to grow the business through commercialization of natural surroundings and attract both international and domestic tourists. Most of the New Zealanders find going for canoeing, boating, fishing, mountain biking, hiking, and other outdoor activities as a leisurely activity. Some people love peace and tranquillity and wish to be away from the dim, the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Hence, they choose places like the Taranaki region as their travel destination (Corte, 2016). The Department of Conservation makes significant efforts to show and describe a range of outdoor activities through the Recreation Opportunity Spectrum. ROS visually illustrates the activity types and possible recreational opportunities within a particular region. It highlights the activities that are of fundamental importance. It assesses the area, degree of naturalness, and access to a particular field. Five Key points to entice Gold and Platinum tourists To improve the business of the hotel, it is crucial to undertake measures and approaches. This would help the hotel to keep some fixed and intact customers. The Hotel might take the following ways to serve its visitors: A warm welcome and a pickup and drop facility Complimentary breakfast and lunch Regional Sports and Recreation Herbal Spa Provision of wireless internet Development of marketing strategy for the hotel The marketing strategy of the hotel must be planned to keep in mind the environmental, cultural, and social factors. One must also bear in mind the strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities of the organization while developing a marketing strategic plan. The 5Ps of marketing must be considered while framing the strategic plan of the Boutique hotel: Product The hotel rooms and recreational services are the goods offered by the hotel. Place The Dawson Lodge Hotel operates in the Taranaki region of New Zealand. People The target audience comprises the domestic people who want to enjoy a secluded and relaxing time in the lap of nature. The hotel is also aiming at cross country tourists. Promotion The hotel mostly uses social networking sites and its website for promotion. However, it can also use billboards, promotional events, and advertise through channels to attract more tourists. Price There is a range of rooms in the hotel. The price of the room depends on upon the kind of room the customers choose. The lodge has honeymoon suites for couples. The cost for a honeymoon suite is $300. The hotel also has a Panorama Room package which costs $200. Revenue Management Revenue management helps to predict the demand of the customers and helps in maximizing growth. Mostly, revenue management involves selling the right product to the right customer at the right moment. The past data of the hotel, target groups, customer satisfaction, customer segmentation, general sales- all must be considered to manage the revenue. The Hotel must decisions based on their clients, competition, distribution system, price, and events. The hotel must track consumer behaviour by keeping track of bookings on its website. This helps the hotel to get immediate feedback on price strategise. Moreover, the Hotel must create a budget. Digital marketers must know the need of rooms at a given cost. Loyalty marketers must also know the same to drive campaigns. Consumer Promotion Dawson Falls can provide holiday vouchers for its customers. The hotel can offer voucher starting from $100. Vouchers may be redeemed by the customers after a 5 night stay with family. Vouchers may be weekend gifts and would be the perfect gift for a getaway. Such a scheme is a long term promotion. These vouchers may be given to customers through SMS or mails. The Lodge can also give flight or bus vouchers. Such a voucher would offer flexibility to the customers and is cost effective as well. The Hotel can also give spa vouchers to the customers so that they enjoy to the fullest the next time they come. Critical analysis of the promotional strategies used by Dawson Lodge The business of hotels like Dawson Falls Lodge is very different compared to other chain hotels. Since the Dawson Falls Mountain Lodge is a boutique hotel, it must have a unique quality. Also, the resources of such a hotel are limited compared to other business chains. The corporate guidance enjoyed by chain hotels is also not available to boutique hotels. Hence, the resort must devise its marketing strategy depending on the taste of the customers. Mass market promotion Mass marketing is a promotional strategy in which a firm ignores the market segment differences and try to appeal the market or customers through a single approach. The message is broadcast to reach the largest number of people. Radio, television and newspaper media form the core tools of such a marketing strategy. This would increase the exposure of the product, that is, the hotel, to a larger number of audiences. As opposed to Niche marketing, the focus of mass marketing is low prices and high sales. The resort has the power to mass market its products. The popularity of the hotel is advantageous. When a person searches for hotels and resorts in New Zealand, Dawson Falls Lodge is one of the first to appear on the list. The hotel must provide a service that people would be excited to talk of. Mass marketing is an advantageous for people rely more on word-of-mouth from the customers who have already enjoyed the services of the hotel. Moreover, since Dawson Lodge is a boutique hotel, it is vital to highlight the elements that make it unique (Howison et al., 2015). Utilizing specialized agencies as selling tools Dawson Falls Mountain Lodge can use travel agencies as a selling tool. The travel agencies would find out new ways and help the lodge in attracting customers even during the lean season. Through the strategies of the firms, the hotel would be able to compete with other sellers more efficiently. In the recent years, the Lodge is focusing on niche marketing. Agencies help the hotel to develop special packages and discounts. Moreover, agencies also help to develop unique marketing message for tourists which mass market sellers would not be able to provide (Kabani, 2013). Discounts Dawson Lodge must offer less complicated and easier online booking process with attractive packages. The Lodge can provide all its services and luxuries at a lower price to its premium customers. Moreover, to attract more customers, the Lodge can also facilitate lucrative discounts to tourists during offseason. Discounts help attract more customers. Also, it is a very effective way to improve customer loyalty. To keep fixed clients, the Hotel must give discounts to its prior clients. This would increase the visit of those customers. Whenever they come next time, they would make it sure to choose Dawson Lodge as their place to stay during the vacation. An offer like a loyalty rewards program may be incorporated so that the customers can find a reason to come back to the hotel. A frequent visitor may be convinced to return again with a lucrative offer. The hotel can give one night of free stay after some stays. It can provide a night free stay after a stay of 10 or 12 nights. This would increase the longevity of the customer stay. The discounts offered by the hotel must be highlighted on popular sites. Partnership Working in partnership is a very advantageous promotional strategy. Dawson Lodge can partner with a travel agency. A joint effort on the part of both the travel agency and the lodge would reduce promotional costs for both. Moreover, a joint venture would lead to more a broader appeal. Moreover, advertising in places of social gatherings like theaters, museums, clubs, and restaurants are a unique opportunity for promotion and partnership. This would cost very little to almost nothing. The Boutique hotel may act nimbly and quickly and must take full advantage of such collaborations. This would earn them revenue. In addition to this, Dawson Lodge works with the New Zealand government and has registered its name in the tourist guide map of Mt. Taranaki. The resort gives additional 5% discount to the customers who book their rooms using the promotional code provided on the local tourist map. Value-added promotions Value-added promotions include instant win promotions, loyalty campaigns, sales promotion, trade promotions, and special packaging. Value-added promotions are always appreciated by sellers as well as clients. Various facilities and rewards to the customers facilitate an increase in the number of customers. Bonus points on arrival, complimentary breakfast, pick up and drop from the airport, gift shop discounts, room upgrade, local call service at a cheaper rate are some of the value-added promotions that the Resort engages itself. Platinum customers get additional benefits like a free car parking, herbal spa treatment, and champagne for special occasions, and free dinner. These approaches may be very fruitful for the hotel. Marketing through social media In the modern tech world, everyone uses social media like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. In such a scenario, such social media sites are of great help when it comes to promoting a business. Social media is an excellent option for marketing a hotel like Dawson Lodge Falls as people are bound to gather information about their destination before investing their hard earned money. Customers would surely do extensive research and choose their holiday spot after going through a detailed study. It is then a reasonable step to provide as much information as possible through social media sites apart from the company website. A person who has had an experience of the hotel would praise it. This is a marketing strategy without any extra expenditure. Along with making an appropriate website, the hotel must also develop creative social media pages to entice customers. Facebook Facebook, in the modern generation, is a place where people discuss anything to everything. It is a platform which is used widely by people across the globe to chat and display pictures about vacations. They talk about pre as well as post-trip. The resort has developed its Facebook page where they share numerous photos and facts about the resort. They also upload pictures of the indoor and outdoor recreational activities they undertake. The cover photo of the hotel is an appropriate one. It has been chosen according to the location, uniqueness, and seasonality of the resort. The hotel also offers prizes and discounts for sharing their pictures on Facebook. The guests upload pictures of hotel rooms and the serene and calm environment that the hotel and the natural beauty provide. Moreover, Facebook marketing is very cost efficient and helps to give a glimpse of the vacation which the customers would be enjoying. The Resort also provides updates about the promotional discounts, offers and special packages on its Facebook page to attract more visitors (Thongmak, 2015). Instagram With more than 500 million users, Instagram is becoming one of the most popular platforms which are used widely by people across the world. Instagram photos quickly touch the minds and hearts of the young generation. With time, even the older generations are using the site. Posting a simple picture of a hotel bed or breakfast is not what one should post on Instagram. Instead, one should post pictures of a warm welcome or the activities that the host has conducted. The hotel can post a photo along with a story to make it more attractive. The hotel uses hashtags very often. These hashtags are an Instagram staple and make posts more searchable on the platform. The hotel encourages it guests to use hashtags frequently (Thongmak, 2015).. Twitter Social media can be utilized as a very effective tool in acclaiming fame. Social get-togethers and tweets would help to reach a wide range of audience. They would be able to build a healthy relationship with tech savvy and social savvy folks. It can host a social media event to sell out rooms. Moreover, people using social media sites would write reviews about the hotel. This would market the hotel without any added cost. It would help the Lodge to connect with more people in a very less time (Thongmak, 2015). Sending SMS and Whatsapp messages to potential customers The hotel management sends Short Message Service or SMS and Whatsapp messages to its potential clients. In this way, the hotel management keeps it customers updated with the latest packages and offers. SMS is an effective way to reach the potential customers personally. Moreover, the Resort can directly reach the targeted audience. It is a better marketing approach than other means of marketing. Conclusion Through an analysis of the boutique hotel, it is quite evident that the hotel business is a successful one. The hotel, located at the foothills of Mount Taranaki is a very attractive spot for the tourists. The peaceful and tranquil surrounding of the place adds to the serenity and is beneficial for the hotel. The hotel has been a prosperous one because of its location. Though a boutique hotel has its issues, it has its advantages as well. The feature of being a boutique hotel must strengthen marketing instead of limit it. Customers want to see the quality of a hands-on boutique and the efforts it would take in managing hospitality. A detailed analysis of the factors affecting the hotel business has to lead to consider the recommendations mentioned below. The hotel has undertaken only social media as an advertising program. It must also take other forms of advertisements other than social media (Thompson et al., 2014). Technology is a very useful promotional tool for boutique business. Utilization of reputation management tools and social media dashboards must be such that the hotel benefits from them. The investment must be done wisely. Social media is a low cost solution for an effective marketing to reach a wider audience in a less time. The hotel must evaluate every possible solution and use the most efficient one. The environmental and political condition of the place is favorable for the hotel business. The natural environment is favorable for attracting tourists. It must be understood that the hotel gets a lot of opportunity for recreational activities. It must grab the opportunity and promote more recreational activities. It should work more with the New Zealand government and promote tourism. Recreational activities include a wide range of sports like mountaineering, hiking, mountain biking, skiing among others. The activities also include expedition around the natural space. However, the target and approach of the hotel are very limited. It must be improved and expanded. Recommendations From the above discussion, it is evident that running an organization is not an easy task. The management must develop appropriate policies to make the day to day operations smooth. The management must ensure a fair and equal treatment of all its guests. The marketing of an organization must not be limited to a certain number of channels. The recommendations may prove to be beneficial for a successful business. There is an enormous scope for the Dawson Falls Mountain Lodge to expand its business and earn huge profits. Though the hotel has its strategies for promotion, it can use the following recommendations to improve its business. Implementation of natural resources to generate electricity One must keep in mind that the Resort is in the midst of nature and far from the din of city life. To ensure that the ecological balance does not get affected, the hotel must check overuse in consumption of electricity. The operational budget must be reduced. It must use minimum artificial regulators to ensure a natural experience. The hotel must use solar cells and panels to generate electricity. It can also use wind energy to generate electricity. It helps to save cost and reduce pollution in the ecological sphere. In fact, the use of artificial products must be the bare minimum. Measures to improve customer benefits The hotel can improve its website by incorporating live chat option. The direct chatting option would help the customers to interact with the customers directly. Moreover, the company can implement some packages so that the middle-class people can also enjoy the benefits of the hotel. Use Blogging There are numerous social media sites on the web which a business firm can use as a promotional tool. But it must filter and monitor sites. It must choose only popular sites like YouTube, Facebook or Twitter as a promotional platform. To establish its presence in the social media, the hotel can consider making a blog. It can post creative articles to position the Lodge in a particular market or niche. The hotel can use software like Flip.to. It is an innovative platform to boost the hotels business and create brand awareness. Blogging would help the boutique hotel to spread the word across social media platforms about the upcoming offers or trips. It is an excellent way to expand news and establish communication between the management and customers. The hotel must share relevant and exciting content. Connect with guests One of the biggest advantages of a boutique hotel is personalized services and customers' experience. Knowing the guests personally would help the manager to figure out the interest of the customers. This personalized experience would help both the client and the hotel to connect with each other later. The information gained by the hotel is a precious one which can be used and implemented in the marketing plan. The hotel staff must listen to their customers and provide them whatever they wish to have. The guests must feel at ease and home. They must believe that are understood and being taken care of. Taking care of employee welfare In the hotel industry, it is vital to project a friendly behavior towards the customers. For a service oriented industry, it is of utmost importance that the customers appreciate the services offered by a hotel. The management must take care of its employees along with its clients. The administration must take care of the needs of the employees and treat them fairly. The hotel management can conduct a communication training program for staff. This would improve the communicative faculty of the employees. Provide better opportunities Statistics show that almost 80% of the customers belong to the corporate sector and account for the profitable customers. They are the ones from whom the hotel earns the maximum revenue. Thus, it is in the fittest of things to take special care of the gold and platinum customers. The hotel must strive to plan a better marketing strategy to reach this section of society. References Armstrong, G., Kotler, P., Harker, M., Brennan, R. (2012). Marketing: an introduction. Pearson Prentice-Hall, London. Barrow, C., Barrow, P. Brown, R., (2012).The business plan workbook.Kogan Page Publishers. Bergek, A., Berggren, C., Magnusson, T., Hobday, M. (2013). Technological discontinuities and the challenge for incumbent firms: Destruction, disruption or creative accumulation?.Research Policy,42(6), pp.1210-1224. Berthon, P. R., Pitt, L. F., Plangger, K., Shapiro, D. (2012). Marketing meets Web 2.0, social media, and creative consumers: Implications for international marketing strategy. Business horizons, 55(3), 261-271. Blank, S., (2013). Why the lean start-up changes everything. Harvard business review, 91(5), pp.63-72. Chaffey, D., Ellis-Chadwick, F. (2012). Digital marketing. Pearson Higher Ed. Chevalier, J. A., Mayzlin, D. (2012). The effect of word of mouth on sales: Online book reviews.Journal of marketing research,43(3), pp.345-354. Dawsonfallsmountainlodge,(2016).Dawson Falls Lodge.Dawsonfallsmountainlodge.kiwi.nz. Retrieved 8 September 2016, from https://www.dawsonfallsmountainlodge.kiwi.nz/ De Mooij, M. (2013). Global Marketing and Advertising: Understanding Cultural Paradoxes: Understanding Cultural Paradoxes. Sage Publications Della Corte, V. (2016). The strategic environment of hotel chains. The Routledge Handbook of Hotel Chain Management, 57. Getz, D. (2012). Development, and Marketing. Sport and adventure tourism, 49. Hays, S., Page, S. J., Buhalis, D. (2013). Social media as a destination marketing tool: its use by national tourism organisations. Current issues in Tourism, 16(3), pp.211-239. Hopkins, D. (2014). The sustainability of climate change adaptation strategies in New Zealand's ski industry: a range of stakeholder perceptions.Journal of Sustainable Tourism,22(1), 107-126. Hosany, S., Martin, D. (2012).Self-image congruence in consumer behavior.Journal of Business Research,65(5), 685-691. Howison, S., Finger, G., Hauschka, C. (2015). Insights into the Web presence, online marketing, and the use of social media by tourism operators in Dunedin, New Zealand. Anatolia, 26(2), 269-283. Kabani, S. (2013). The zen of social media marketing: An easier way to build credibility, generate buzz, and increase revenue. Benbella Books. Kahiya, E. T., Dean, D. L., Heyl, J. (2014). Export barriers in a changing institutional environment: A quasi-longitudinal study of New Zealands manufacturing exporters. Journal of International Entrepreneurship, 12(4), 331-364. Kang, K. H., Stein, L., Heo, C. Y., Lee, S. (2012). Consumers willingness to pay for green initiatives of the hotel industry.International Journal of Hospitality Management,31(2), 564-572. Khanna, T., Palepu, K. (2013).Winning in emerging markets: A road map for strategy and execution. Harvard Business Press. Kwong, C.C., Thompson, P. Cheung, C.W., (2012).The effectiveness of social business plan competitions in developing social and civic awareness and participation.Academy of Management Learning Education, 11(3), pp.324-348. Leonidou, L. C., Leonidou, C. N., Fotiadis, T. A., Zeriti, A. (2013). Resources and capabilities as drivers of hotel environmental marketing strategy: Implications for competitive advantage and performance. Tourism Management, 35, 94-110. Li, X., Wang, Y., Yu, Y. (2015). Present and future hotel website marketing activities: Change propensity analysis. International Journal of Hospitality Management, 47, 131-139. Lin, X. (2016). Strategy Analysis of a Boutique and Lifestyle Hotel: A SWOT Analysis (Doctoral dissertation, California State Polytechnic University, Pomona). Line, N. D., Runyan, R. C. (2012).Hospitality marketing research: Recent trends and future directions.International Journal of Hospitality Management,31(2), 477-488. Manyika, J., Chui, M., Bughin, J., Dobbs, R., Bisson, P. Marrs, A., (2013).Disruptive technologies: Advances that will transform life, business, and the global economy. San Francisco, CA: McKinsey Global Institute. Manyika, J., Chui, M., Bughin, J., Dobbs, R., Bisson, P. Marrs, A., (2013).Disruptive technologies: Advances that will transform life, business, and the global economy. San Francisco, CA: McKinsey Global Institute. Mohammed, A. A., Rashid, B. (2012). Customer Relationship Management (CRM) in Hotel Industry: A framework proposal on the relationship among CRM dimensions, Marketing Capabilities, and Hotel performance.International Review of Management and Marketing,2(4), 220. Mohammed, A. A., Rashid, B. (2012). Customer Relationship Management (CRM) in Hotel Industry: A framework proposal on the relationship among CRM dimensions, Marketing Capabilities, and Hotel performance.International Review of Management and Marketing,2(4), 220. Morgan, N. A., Katsikeas, C. S., Vorhies, D. W. (2012). Export marketing strategy implementation, export marketing capabilities, and export venture performance. Journal of the Academy of Marketing Science, 40(2), 271-289. Mullins, J., (2012). The new business road test: What entrepreneurs and executives should do before writing a business plan. Pearson UK. Mullins, J., (2012). The new business road test: What entrepreneurs and executives should do before writing a business plan. Pearson UK. Nilsson, B., Carlsson, E. (2014). Swedish politicians and new media: Democracy, identity and populism in a digital discourse. New Media Society, 16(4), 655-671. Okazaki, S., Taylor, C. R. (2013).Social media and international advertising: theoretical challenges and future directions. International marketing review, 30(1), pp.56-71. Peters, K., Chen, Y., Kaplan, A. M., Ognibeni, B., Pauwels, K. (2013). Social media metricsA framework and guidelines for managing social media.Journal of interactive marketing,27(4), 281-298. So, K. K. F., King, C., Sparks, B. (2015). Extending the tourism experience. Customer Engagement: Contemporary Issues and Challenges, 236. Thompson, A. J., Martin, A. J., Gee, S., Eagleman, A. N. (2014). Examining the Development of a Social Media Strategy for a National Sport Organisation A Case Study of Tennis New Zealand. Journal of Applied Sport Management, 6(2). Thongmak, M. (2015, June). Engaging Facebook Users in Brand Pages: Different Posts of Marketing-Mix Information. In International Conference on Business Information Systems (pp. 299-308). Springer International Publishing. Trusov, M., Bucklin, R. E., Pauwels, K. (2012).Effects of word-of-mouth versus traditional marketing: findings from an internet social networking site.Journal of marketing, 73(5), pp.90-102. Wang, C. H., Chen, K. Y., Chen, S. C. (2012). Total quality management, market orientation and hotel performance: The moderating effects of external environmental factors.International Journal of Hospitality Management,31(1), 119-129. Xiao, S., Jia, L., Jiang, L. (2012). Forest recreation opportunity spectrum in the suburban mountainous region of Beijing.Journal of Urban Planning and Development,138(4), 335-341.
Wednesday, December 4, 2019
Lockes Government Essays (1461 words) - Sovereignty,
Locke's Government The Declaration of Independence, written by Thomas Jefferson, and The Second Treatise on Civil Government by John Locke, are two similar works. Locke's work seems to have had an influence on Jefferson when he wrote the Declaration of Independence. Both works were written on government, what it should and should not be. Locke brings the view that the state exists to preserve the natural rights of its citizens. When governments fail in that task, citizens have the right--and sometimes the duty--to withdraw their support and event to rebel. Locke maintained that the state of nature was a happy and tolerant one, that the social contract preserved the preexistent natural rights of the individual to life, liberty, and property, and that the enjoyment of private rights-- the pursuit of happiness-- led, in civil society, to the common good. Locke's form of government is simple, yet confusing. Locke's government is broken down into four main areas, the State of Nature ( SN ), the State of War ( SW ), Civil Society ( CS ), and Political Society ( PS ). Locke begins by recognizing the differences between power, in general, and political power in particular. Locke believes political power to be, "the power of a magistrate over a subject." (2) The subject remains under the magistrates rule by choice. This brings about the State of Nature. The SN is a state of perfect freedom, no one is controlling others and no one is being controlled, everyone is equal. Locke comes to say that the only way someone can rule over us is if we let them. By doing this we are not abandoning our SN, but remaining in it. It is ones choice to let another preside over them. Our SN is threatened though because we do not have complete control, therefore we come into the State of War. Under SW we have taken away others SN or given up our own. For us to get it back we come into Civil Society. By lending out our SN we come together to protect it. We are given back our SN after it has been restored. We are no longer threatened by someone taking it away. The problem that arises is the fact that this is not a very solid solution. This leads to the Political Society. People agree to get together and establish a PC (AKA "government") The PC is responsible for protecting others. We are still in our State of Nature as we have lended it out, received it back and come to terms with others in arranging a Political Society. Locke is attempting to understand the proper relationship between a people and a government. Jefferson's ideas are very close to those of Lockes. Which proves Locke's work had an impact on him. The first major relationship between Jefferson's Declaration of Independence and Locke's Second Treatise is that they both believe in the State of Nature and use it as the basis of their governments. The Declaration of Independence says that, "...and to assume among the Powers of the earth, the separate and equal station to which the Laws of Nature and of Nature's God entitle them..." (1) Locke believes this as, "...what state all men are naturally in, and that is a state of perfect freedom to order their actions, and dispose of their possessions and persons as they think fit within the bounds of the Law of Nature..." ( 2 ) The Declaration of Independence is saying that when one set of politics is not working, that one must break away and start over again in the Law of Nature because this is truly the only way to go. For Locke, "The Sate of Nature has a law of Nature to govern it, which obliges everyone, and reason, which is that law, teaches all mankind who will but consult it, that being all equal and independent, no one ought to harm another in his life, liberty, or possessions." (2) Jefferson uses the Law of Nature as the highest government a society can achieve. This being everyone free, and in their State of Nature, yet under a government. Another similarity is how they explain their belief that all men are created equal. As the Declaration of Independence goes on Jefferson comes to say, "...that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of happiness." ( 1 ) Both Jefferson and Locke believe that all men are created Lockes Government Essays (1461 words) - Sovereignty, Locke's Government The Declaration of Independence, written by Thomas Jefferson, and The Second Treatise on Civil Government by John Locke, are two similar works. Locke's work seems to have had an influence on Jefferson when he wrote the Declaration of Independence. Both works were written on government, what it should and should not be. Locke brings the view that the state exists to preserve the natural rights of its citizens. When governments fail in that task, citizens have the right--and sometimes the duty--to withdraw their support and event to rebel. Locke maintained that the state of nature was a happy and tolerant one, that the social contract preserved the preexistent natural rights of the individual to life, liberty, and property, and that the enjoyment of private rights-- the pursuit of happiness-- led, in civil society, to the common good. Locke's form of government is simple, yet confusing. Locke's government is broken down into four main areas, the State of Nature ( SN ), the State of War ( SW ), Civil Society ( CS ), and Political Society ( PS ). Locke begins by recognizing the differences between power, in general, and political power in particular. Locke believes political power to be, "the power of a magistrate over a subject." (2) The subject remains under the magistrates rule by choice. This brings about the State of Nature. The SN is a state of perfect freedom, no one is controlling others and no one is being controlled, everyone is equal. Locke comes to say that the only way someone can rule over us is if we let them. By doing this we are not abandoning our SN, but remaining in it. It is ones choice to let another preside over them. Our SN is threatened though because we do not have complete control, therefore we come into the State of War. Under SW we have taken away others SN or given up our own. For us to get it back we come into Civil Society. By lending out our SN we come together to protect it. We are given back our SN after it has been restored. We are no longer threatened by someone taking it away. The problem that arises is the fact that this is not a very solid solution. This leads to the Political Society. People agree to get together and establish a PC (AKA "government") The PC is responsible for protecting others. We are still in our State of Nature as we have lended it out, received it back and come to terms with others in arranging a Political Society. Locke is attempting to understand the proper relationship between a people and a government. Jefferson's ideas are very close to those of Lockes. Which proves Locke's work had an impact on him. The first major relationship between Jefferson's Declaration of Independence and Locke's Second Treatise is that they both believe in the State of Nature and use it as the basis of their governments. The Declaration of Independence says that, "...and to assume among the Powers of the earth, the separate and equal station to which the Laws of Nature and of Nature's God entitle them..." (1) Locke believes this as, "...what state all men are naturally in, and that is a state of perfect freedom to order their actions, and dispose of their possessions and persons as they think fit within the bounds of the Law of Nature..." ( 2 ) The Declaration of Independence is saying that when one set of politics is not working, that one must break away and start over again in the Law of Nature because this is truly the only way to go. For Locke, "The Sate of Nature has a law of Nature to govern it, which obliges everyone, and reason, which is that law, teaches all mankind who will but consult it, that being all equal and independent, no one ought to harm another in his life, liberty, or possessions." (2) Jefferson uses the Law of Nature as the highest government a society can achieve. This being everyone free, and in their State of Nature, yet under a government. Another similarity is how they explain their belief that all men are created equal. As the Declaration of Independence goes on Jefferson comes to say, "...that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of happiness." ( 1 ) Both Jefferson and Locke believe that all men are created
Wednesday, November 27, 2019
THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN EMPLOYEE MOTIVATION AND PERFORMANCE Essay Example
THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN EMPLOYEE MOTIVATION AND PERFORMANCE Essay Motivation can be a key-contributing factor in employee performance. It is of great importance to an organization to recognize ways in which it can use employee motivation to positively affect employee performance. The methods used by organizations to motivate its employees are essential in determining how they affect employee performance. There are both positive and negative motivational tools that may be explored. The purpose of this paper is to examine the relationship between motivation and employee performance. Motivation is generally defined as the psychological forces that determine the irection of a persons level of effort, as well as a persons persistence in the face of obstacles. When a person has an increased level of effort and persistence in the workplace they tend to be highly motivated and this more often leads to a higher level of performance. However, the reason for an employees motivation may not necessarily be attributed to the organization. It is possible for an employee who is highly motivated to have low performance and the opposite for a lower motivated employee to have high performance. Although possible, most research studies show higher correlation between higher motivation and higher employee performance. There are both positive motivators and negative motivators that can be utilized by the organization. Positive motivators as employed by organizations may include employee benefits such as increased compensation, bonuses, stock options, profit sharing and other such rewards. Employees may be motivated by both intrinsic and extrinsic rewards. Intrinsic rewards may be the ability to work autonomously, acknowledgement, and an interest in the type of work they are doing. Extrinsic rewards may be employee recognition, monetary benefits, and other such material rewards. Negative motivators may include a bad performance review, verbal and written warnings, suspension, and termination warnings. An employer may use these various methods in which to motivate its employees. Performance is an evaluation of the results of a persons behavior: It involves determining how well or poorly a person has accomplished a task or done a Job. High employee performance leads to greater organizational success. We will write a custom essay sample on THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN EMPLOYEE MOTIVATION AND PERFORMANCE specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now We will write a custom essay sample on THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN EMPLOYEE MOTIVATION AND PERFORMANCE specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer We will write a custom essay sample on THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN EMPLOYEE MOTIVATION AND PERFORMANCE specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer In order for an rganization to try to acquire higher levels of employee performance via increased employee motivation they must have a strategy to do so effectively. The strategy must ultimately focus on achieving organizational goals while maintaining ways in which to influence motivation, which then inspires employee performance. From the organizational standpoint, there are key factors that impact motivation and its effect on employee performance. One such factor is setting goals for employees that incorporate the vision of the organization. When goals are set for the employee t provides an incentive for the employee and also benefits the organization upon completion relatlve to tne organlzatlons goals as well. Anotner Tactor Is employee engagement. Employee engagement and input allows for a level of commitment from the employee and may serve as an organizations way to be in tune with employee concerns. It is also extremely important to recognize the treatment of employees as a factor of motivating employees and their performance. Employees that are treated well by their organization in turn feel that they are a valued member of the team and ssentially its employer. This contributes to the level of trust that the employee has in the organization and can positively impact how well they perform for the company. Also, it is important to have a clear sense of leadership demonstrated for employees so that they are able to learn from these qualities displayed by successful leaders in the organization. Great leadership helps to motivate employees to perform at high levels and achieve organizational goals, which provide employees with the opportunity to develop within the organization. There are several theories based on motivation provide support for the relationship between motivation and performance. These theories include: Expectancy Theory, MasloWs Hierarchy of Needs, Herzbergs Motivator-Hygiene Theory, McClellands Needs for Achievement, Affiliation and Power, Equity Theory and Goal-setting Theory. Expectancy theory suggests that motivation is high when employees believe that high levels of effort lead to high performance and high performance leads to attaining desired outcomes. MasloWs Hierarchy of Needs says that five basic needs must be et by people in the order from bottom to top with each higher level upward leading to motivated behavior. Herzbergs Motivator-Hygiene Theory focuses of two factors attributed to the workplace: 1) meeting basic expectations 2) leading to increased performance. McClellands Needs for Achievement, Affiliation, and Power identifies three needs for a person 1) achievement 2) affiliation 3) power; of which all three pertain to a persons desire to perform well, have positive interpersonal relationships, and the desire to influence others. The Equity Theory is ones perception of fairness elative to their work outcomes and work inputs. Goal-setting Theory focuses on motivation of workers in order to contribute to overall performance of organization based on goals set. All these theories provide explored background information for employee motivation and its relationship to performance. An employees performance isnt solely based on the level of motivation but has an enormous amount of potential to have the greatest influence. There has been consistent empirical evidence to suggest that motivated employees means better performance. Due to motivation being linked to employee engagement, satisfaction, commitment, and an employees intention to quit, it can be said that these major factors also contribute to performance. Their contribution to an employees performance can be directly linked therefore the way in which they serve as components of motivation shows linkage to employee performance. These indicators play a major role in an employees overall performance. An organization and its managements focus through the utilization of employing ways in which to motivate its employees as a performance enhancement should be a rlmary Tocus. I nere are countless ways In wnlcn tney are aDle to ao so ranging from both extrinsic and intrinsic rewards and employee recognition. However, these are valuable for leaders and their organization to know and actively participate in these activities as the idea of motivating employees is not only of beneficial importance to employees but also to an increased level of performance for company employees and the overall organization. Bibliography Motivation in Todays Workplace: The Link to Performance, SHRM Research Quarterly: Second Quarter-2010 http://www. hrm. org/research/articles/articles/ Owen E. Richason IV, Motivation Employee Performance, Small Business Houston Chronicle http://smallbusiness. chron. com/motivation-employee- performance-1964. html George, Jones. Understanding and Managing Organizational Behavior Sixth Edition. Upper Saddle River: Pearson Education Inc. , publishing as Prentice Hall, 2012. Nohria, Groysberg, Lee, Employee Motivation: A Powerful New Model, Harvard Business Review http://hbr. org/2008/07/employee-motivation-a-powerful-new-model/ aril
Sunday, November 24, 2019
buy custom Iraq War Mid-Term Research Paper Example
buy custom Iraq War Mid Iraq, Saddam Hussein and the Unites States Abstract The outcome of the recent conflict between Iraq and the United States is yet to be properly assessed. However, it is undeniable that the war did not begin overnight as it had been preceded by a variety of events, including its rise of Saddam Hussein, his wars with Iran and Kuwait, and, finally, the Gulf War. In order to define the reasons of the conflict, it is important to analyze these events from the point of various theories of international relations. Such ones include, particularly, a human theory (the aggression is a natural human emotion), the theory of realism (in order to acquire benefits for his country, a leader can use any measures, including violence), the theories of globalism (political and economic isolation striped the country and its leaders of any power on the world arena) and cognitive theories (isolation, being combined with dictatorial power leads to the distorted perception of reality and results in unreasonable and dangerous actions). Moreover, this study wil l also allow defining whether the conflict has ended as well as predicting its possible outcomes.
Thursday, November 21, 2019
To what extend the online shopping effected the UK economy and what Essay
To what extend the online shopping effected the UK economy and what does it mean for future businesses in the UK - Essay Example Useful statistics will be cited in the presentation to paint a proper picture of the UK online shopping industry. Started 20 years ago, online shopping has vigorously picked up in the UK with the latest research by UK retailer Shop Direct revealing that one in every four people in the UK prefers online shopping as opposed to making physical store visits. The research further revealed that 95% of British people now buy goods through internet retailers. So what are the reasons for this shift in 20 years on? According to Wallop (2013), the following come out as reasons why most Brits prefer online shopping: They have the ability to search and locate the specific good or service they want- From the comfort of their living rooms, buyers can get the specifics of what they want without having to walk into multiple stores. This makes it easier to make a decision and compare among the many available options which good or service suits a consumer. Online shopping is extremely convenient: With retailer websites available all day and night and the efficient delivery systems within the UK, customers enjoy the convenience of being able to shop from any location and at any time of the day or night. This flexibility has significantly contributed to the growth of this mode of buying goods and services. The elimination of crowds and queues: Online shoppers forego the trouble of vesting physical stores that have the disadvantage of being crowded especially during peak shopping seasons. This has made it the most preferred mode of purchase, something that justifies the high statistical findings of UK populace choosing the option. Ability to easily compare prices and see reviews: Before an online shopper settles on a product, they have the advantage of comparing at the click of a button, similar goods from competitor companies and looking at past customer experiences with the goods/service of interest. This helps in properly informing the buyer on the best among the
Wednesday, November 20, 2019
Evaluating Human resource management Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words
Evaluating Human resource management - Essay Example But quite often a distinction is drawn between the Human Resources Management (HRM) and the labour management concentrating on the industrial relations of the large enterprises. However in the context of globalization the pressures exerted on HRM and labour Management initiatives have really changed the nature and scope of these distinct functions. "Changes in IR practices (rather than in institutions and systems) such as increased collective bargaining at enterprise level, flexibility in relation to forms of employment as well as in relation to working time and job functions have occurred as a result of such factors as heightened competition, rapid changes in products and processes and the increasing importance of skills, quality and productivity." (S.R.de Silva) These factors also seem to have an impact on the policies and practices of the HRM. In this context this paper presents an overview on the problems of labour management to the extent it affects the growth and progress of an organization and the role of the HRM in providing effective solutions to the problems being encountered in the labour management. "Enterprises driven by market pressures need to include in their goals improved quality and productivity, greater flexibility, continuous innovation, and the ability to change to respond rapidly to market needs and demands" (S.R.de Silva). Such enhanced organizational goals increase the efforts and commitment of the HRM in realizing the management goals. For this purpose the HRM has to shift its focus to largely depend on individualism rather than collectivism that result in the alignment of the pay systems to the individual performance and skill sets. Thus realizing the improved organizational goals call for an effective change management, larger involvement of employees, increased commitment from the employee side, provision of more training, soliciting more employee participation to exhibit team work and cooperation which are all the important HR initiatives. At the same time all these can be viewed as potential industrial relations issues needing an effective labour management. With this increased responsibilities "The dominant position towards which HRM is moving points to a "change in power relations and highlights the supremacy of management. The management prerogative is rediscovered but in place of command and control the emphasis is on commitment and control as quality, flexibility and competence replaces quantity, task and dumb obedience. To put it another way: the managerial agenda is increasingly focused on innovation, quality and cost reduction. Human resource management makes more demands on employees, work is intensified .... there is less room for managerial slack and for indulgency patterns." (John Purcell) 3.0 Objectives of Labour Management and HRM: In order to have an appreciation of the ways in which HRM can provide solutions to the labour management issues, it is important to understand the basic objectives of the labour manage
Sunday, November 17, 2019
Persuasive Speech-Skin Cancer Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words
Persuasive Speech-Skin Cancer - Essay Example What makes cancer lethal is the fact that an inflicted individual wouldnââ¬â¢t feel its negative effects until it the abnormal cells have already grown so much. Skin cancers, for example, may appear on normal skin, or may develop from moles that were present at birth. For such diseases that only physically manifest in its deleterious stages, one should know the risk factors predisposing us to developing them, the steps that can be taken to ensure that we do not have them, and the treatment options once we are positive for having the disease. In battling any kind of diseases, prevention is always better than cure. To avoid melanomas, one must first know whether he or she is more likely to develop the skin lesion than others. Skin cancers can happen at any age, but elderly individuals are more susceptible to developing melanomas than younger people do. Caucasians, who have fair skin, blue or green eyes, and red or blond hair, also have a higher tendency to develop the skin disease. On the other hand, the type of melanoma commonly seen on soles, palms, or under the nails usually develops in African Americans. Aside from the abovementioned predispositions, it is also especially important for individuals with a past medical history of blistering sunburns, family history of melanomas, occupation requiring prolonged sun exposure, residence in high altitude places or sunny climates, immunodeficiency, or multiple birthmarks, to watch out for skin cancer. For people at risk, it is necessary to avoid tanning devices, arsenic, coal tar, and creosote. Because melanomas can appear on anyone, it is important to distinguish from all other body marks the one most likely to be cancerous. Early detection of a cancerous growth is vital in the success of treatment, and subsequent survival of the patient. Fortunately, self-examination can be performed using the following easy-to-remember ABCD symptoms of melanoma: A for asymmetrical, B for undefined borders, C for mixture of colo rs, and D for diameter of more than 6 mm. Self-examination using these symptoms should be conducted monthly, and an in-depth, formal skin exam by a dermatologist should be requested yearly. Once a suspicious body mark has been found, there is no reason to be depressed. Medical procedures are already present to ensure that individuals with melanomas can combat these cancer cells successfully. First, a biopsy, or removal of the whole or part of the mass, sentinel lymph node biopsy, X-ray, and or CT scan will be done to determine the extent of migration of melanoma. These medical procedures determine the extent of the growth of cancer cells. This is important to allow the patient have an informed decision with regards to the means by which the cancer cells are removed from the body. Through the years, treatment options for skin cancer has steadily increased and improved. Surgery is the treatment of choice for melanomas that have not yet migrated to other parts of the body. If cancer ce lls were found to other parts of the body, chemotherapy or radiation therapy may supplement the surgery to ensure that no cancer cell mass is left inside. These treatment options have high success rates, especially when melanomas are detected in its early stages. In addition, patients can participate in experiments testing novel drugs for cancer. With the continuing advancement of
Friday, November 15, 2019
Role Of Social Networking In Education Systems Information Technology Essay
Role Of Social Networking In Education Systems Information Technology Essay In current days the usage of social media like Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and so on is very common. These social networking sites are used by millions of people throughout the world. The emergence of social networking creates a revolution among people for easy communication and knowledge sharing. In this essay we are going to discuss about the usage of social media in modernization of education system and the advantage of implementing social networking in modernization of education system in India. Modernization of education system: In India, education system currently present is mostly based on books and paper. I have a business idea regarding modernization of education system in India. Nowadays the lecturers in colleges teach using board and books for taking classes. According to my idea the concept of book based teaching is modified to e-resource usage in teaching and testing students. This process of conversion of books into e-resource will help the student to learn easily and quickly. This a powerful tool to disseminate the theories and formulas in books to students with proper examples. Current system: In India, all the colleges must be affiliated to some university. In that manner a single university controls over many colleges with same syllabus. All colleges under same university will follow the same syllabus for same subject. So all the students from different colleges have the same syllabus. But the way of teaching is different from college to college for the same subject. There is no common method of teaching for all colleges under same university. There is no communication among the students of different colleges. So socialization among the students gets affected. Assessment system: The syllabus for all colleges being same the exams are also conducted at same day in colleges with same questions to all students taking that subject. But the way of teaching and learning differs. They follow different materials for preparation for exams. As the core material would be text book prescribed by university, but the reference material will be entirely different. So the way of presenting answers different from student of one college to other college. Likewise the assignment also varies from college to college for same subject. There is no particular assessment for assignment. To neutralize this problem, our proposed system will be much better option. In our system the assessment will have common criteria and assignment must be framed by university which should be assessed properly as like exam. Proposed system: To establish a communication medium between students and enhance their opportunity of knowledge sharing we are planning a system. In our system, we need to convert all the teaching hints into PowerPoint presentations. We are going to prepare a general presentation for each subject which will be based on prescribed text book recommended by the university. All the students will be given handouts of teaching materials which will enhance their observation capacity and improve the understandability of concepts. For preparing that presentation we are going to hire professors from many universities. Each topic must have presentation which will be prepared by group of professors and approved by some experts in that area. All the student in all colleges must given access to all materials related to their subject (similar to Moodle in our university).The main thing is many colleges affiliated to same university must be connected under a network which will be maintained by our system. Because o f this connectivity all the students are able to communicate with one another to share their knowledge. Usage of software in the proposed system: The proposed system for universities in India will requires a good software system to run this system. The basic idea for this software is implementing social networking among the colleges which are come under same university. This also unique for all the colleges under same university. The basic reason behind this is just to connect student among different colleges who all are studying the same subject can share their ideas and knowledge learned in the subject. To get some practical ideas related to subject, students will use our system as medium of communication with external system which means students from other colleges. The reason which forces me to think in bringing social networking among students is increase in usage of social media websites by university students. As per the result of survey conducted by university students in social media usage shows that in overall 93% of college students are using social networking sites. Among the social networking sites, Facebook users are majority which occupies 96% of students, You Tube holds second among them which comprises of 84% of students. Blogs (14%), Twitter (14%), MySpace (12%), and LinkedIn (10%) respectively. In initial dayà ¢Ã¢â ¬Ã¢â ¢s students who used the social networking sites just for entertainment purpose. But in current situation the awareness of social media to the students is bit higher, so the usage of social networking sites by the students for education purpose gets increased. So in future the rate will get increased further so that knowledge sharing will get expanded in student level. General use of implementing social networking in business: The main advantage of using social networking in any business are listed Establish communication among the employees at all levels which makes the degree of transparency between management and employees to become high Easy and cost effective tool for marketing a product Possibility to attract people of a particular group Effective and efficient way to improve the contacts around the world Faster way to reach people in cheapest way Easy to know about consumer realistic reviews by joining in consumer community Helps to analyze about competitors currently available in the market Advantages of social networking sites: Most of the students in the educational institution have been using the internet quite often. Social networking has become a revelation among the young generations by which it is easier for them to communicate between each other. Will social networking sites will be helpful if it is implemented along with educational forum like Moodle? There has been a big debate over this topic in the past. Many educational experts express their interest in changing current education system in India. Many researches are going on in the current system of education in universities. The advantages of implementing social media in modernization of education system are as follows Role of social networking sites in education: Social networking sites are related to web-based services that offer us an opportunity to socialize with others peers in the network It will be helpful in making new friends and importantly to meet new people through their general interest The new development in social networking sites are the developed and sustainable relationship between teachers and students in learning and sharing content Most of the students studying in colleges communicate to their peers regarding education through text messages or phone calls, nowadays mobile phones are prohibited in many colleges by the management. So they are in need for some other mode of communication. With the introduction of the social networking sites the students can have live interactions and chats to their peers which will largely benefit the students How the students will be benefitted out of this Social networking sites are web-based services that offer us an opportunity to socialize with others Increased exposure to varied views Utilizing all the study resources properly Increased skill in technology Development of communication skills Increased talent to work on group projects Many students already use these forms of technology, so they may be more engaged in learning if they utilize it They will get chance to share the ideas which they have learned in their subject How it is benefitted for the teachers Increased access to resources Can form partnerships with lecturers in other states or countries Exchange lesson plans and information with students Cheap and effective way to convey details to students Easy to give lecturers in class by having proper resource Organized structure of classes will help them to plan accordingly to cover syllabus in particular period of time Easy to clear doubts of students by creating a forum to their subject Role of social networking in staff recruitment: As per our idea, for the preparation of common materials we need to recruit experts for each subject. For selecting experts from all areas social networking plays a major role. LinkedIn is a major social networking site contains profiles of millions of experts which allow the recruiter to choose the effective and suitable person for each subject. LinkedIn proves to be first social networking sites with lot of profiles with experience in all areas. It paves way for searching experts for all the subjects. Overall benefits of social networking to our system: In overall, the benefits of implementing social networking in our system are as follows Cheap and effective ways of communication from different level of users like students, lecturers, and so on Improve the socialization among students as well as other users of the system Tend to increase the knowledge of students by improve the knowledge sharing Fast method to convey message to all students Improvise the standard of student in whole country Creates opportunity to know about latest technology and current events To get quick access to study resources any time and any where Lot of time consumed by preparing common material Lecturers will maintain records of all the students easily It will reduce the cost of communication to colleges It improves the result of students by having proper material which suits for students at all level Examples with Facebooks, blogs and forums: At Penn State University the library service has been using Facebook as one method of allowing students to contact the librarians with enquiries A survey conducted in 2006 found that more students were using Facebook to contact the librarians than any other method Forums are also a part of Social Software that can be a useful tool in education Forums are also related to Blogs, though a blog is centered around an individual, whereas a forum is centered more around an area of interest The major usage of the forum and blogs are the students can post their blogs and works so that others can comment and advise on it There may be a positive impact on climate within the classroom when students see staff as approachable
Tuesday, November 12, 2019
A Midsummer Nights Dream by William Shakespeare Essay -- Papers
A Midsummer Night's Dream by William Shakespeare In the second scene that completes Act I, we are introduced to an extraordinary group of familiar but outlandish comical characters that have been enlightened with the possibility of performing a stage interlude as part of the entertainment at the quick approaching marriage of Theseus and Hippolyta. ====================================================================== The Mechanicals are not only thought of as the 'rude mechanicals', they are also thought of as sweet and gentle folk who have had no promoting purpose in their lives until now. ================================================================== Peter Quince play as one of the mechanicals as the Playwright for the amateurs. We are able to tell that he is more experienced in writing as Shakespeare makes him present his prologue which is a masterpiece of writing deliberately ruined to give the play a comical beginning. Shakespeare does this by making Quince seem like a very smart man, the smartest out of the mechanicals and we know this because he is directing the play and not actually featuring it. This shows us the audience that he has a shy character although he seems very excited and open towards the beginning of the play when actually he seems to have Stage fright. ====================================================================== Nick Bottom the Weaver seems however to be very enthusiastic and wants to play all the roles, furthermore he always tends to overact which annoys Peter Quince but ends up acting the part of Pyramus in the Act 5 Scene 1. ==========================================... ...; my soul is in the sky: Tongue, lose thy light! Moon, take thy flight! Now die, die, die, die, die. At the end of the play both Bottom and Flute get up from where they are lying, supposedly dead, and offer to perform an epilogue or a bergamask (a type of dance). Theseus quickly intervenes and tells them they need no epilogue, but rather should only perform the dance, which they do and Puck ends the play. Overall the play within a play is an exciting look into the life of the mechanicals and has a definite dramatic effect on both audience's because of its charm and amusing effects, which too me would have made the audience applause, thus making it a good way to finish the play. This is because it helps break the illusion of the theatre and helps to bring us back down to earth, to the day of the wedding.
Sunday, November 10, 2019
Amazonââ¬â¢s Marketing Strategy Essay
Abstract The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the marketing process of online retailer Amazon.com, Inc. Amazon.com provides a number of retail services as well as web and storage services. The corporate strategy framework, as discussed in Cravens & Piercyââ¬â¢s Strategic Marketing text, will be used to examine the background of the company and define its current position. The corporate framework includes the following: (1) corporate vision (2) corporate objectives toward vision (3) resources (4) business composition and (5) business design. The marketing strategy of the company will be reviewed using Cravens & Piercyââ¬â¢s suggested marketing strategy process. To assess the current marketing problems and opportunities, this paper takes a closer look at the companyââ¬â¢s current SWOT analysis, provided by GlobalData. In addition, strategic recommendations will be made for the companyââ¬â¢s prolonged growth. Amazon Inc. A companyââ¬â¢s market driven strategy ââ¬Å"mandates more effective integration of activities and processes that impact customer valueâ⬠(Cravens & Piercy, 2009). As well as a consistent market driven strategy, an organization must be creative and innovative in order to compete in the global marketplace. Amazon, Inc. has developed an inventive marketing strategy through the use of the Internet. By becoming pioneers in the e-commerce marketplace, the company has transformed retail. Amazon Inc. should evaluate their corporate and marketing strategies to make use of all available resources. The company has experienced some marketing failures but can still take advantage of existing marketing opportunities. In the 9th Edition of the text Strategic Marketing, Cravens & Piercy write, ââ¬Å"corporate strategies are concerned with how the company can achieve its growth objectives in current or new business areasâ⬠(Cravens & Piercy, 2009). When building the framework for a co mpetitive corporate strategy, an organization must first decide the corporate vision. During the summer of 1994, Internet usage showed promising growth. A reported statistic of 2,300% yearly growth encouraged Jeff Bezos, then Senior Vice President for D.E. Shaw & Co., to quit his job and concentrate on a way to gainfully use this information. His long term vision for his company was to revolutionize retail by creating ââ¬Å"theà earthââ¬â¢s biggest online retail store, where everyone could buy anything and everythingâ⬠(Kargar, 2003). To achieve this goal, Bezos conducted market research that led him to Seattle and directed him to choose selling books online as his main focus. The company was launched in 1995 and by the first quarter of 1996 reported sales revenues of $110 million. The company soon changed from a virtual bookstore into a virtual marketplace by entering new markets that included music, movies, electronics, toys, apparel, grocery and others. Years later in 2006 Amazon.com had become what some called a model of ââ¬Å"the next-generation Internet-based businessâ⬠(Isckia, 2009). That same year the company introduced their new endeavor, Elastic Compute Cloud (EC2), that offered cheap computing power over the Internet. Many believed Bezosââ¬â¢ unconventional wisdom took the company further away from its core vision. However, a closer examination of Bezos creative mindset reveals more of the organizationââ¬â¢s well developed corporate philosophy and structure. Moving beyond book selling, the launch of EC2 and Simple Storage Service (S3) are examples of achievements towards the corporate vision. Amazon has been able to implement objectives in the areas of product quality improvement and new-product targets. Cravens and Piercy note that ââ¬Å"a key strategy issue is matching capabilities to market opportunitiesâ⬠(Cravens & Piercy, 2009). Transforming Amazon.com into more than just a retail operation has given the organization the capability to ââ¬Å"compete in different markets, provide significant valued to end user customers, and create barriers t o competitor duplicationâ⬠(Cravens & Piercy. 2009). With Bezosââ¬â¢ continuous investments in new technological initiatives, investors were concerned about Amazonââ¬â¢s increasing debt and profitability. Kargar reports, ââ¬Å"the company had a weak balance sheet [and] massive negative operating cash flowâ⬠(Kargar, 2004). Throughout the companyââ¬â¢s financial history there have been many monetary losses. According to Robert D. Hoff and Heather Green, in 2002, ââ¬Å"the company still carried $2.2 billion in long-term debtâ⬠(Business Week, 2002). In International Journal of Cases in Electronic Commerce, Pauline Ratnasingham reports that ââ¬Å"Amazon.com shareholders lost 80% of their value in 2000â⬠(Ratnasingham, 2006). Though sales increase rapidly, losses continue to soar as well. Despite the financial failures, in 2006 Bezosââ¬â¢ still believed that his investments would yield big payoffs in later years and that Amazon.com would be a ââ¬Å"meaningful businessâ⬠¦one dayâ⬠(Hoff, 2006). As Amazon.com continued to expand, the companyââ¬â¢s strategic business units (SBU) consisted of four key divisions: (1) U.S. Books/Music/DVD/Video (2) U.S. Electronics, Tools, and Kitchen (3) Services and (4) International (Ratnasingham, 2006). This business composition makes it easier to focus on separate specific strategies for each unit. The companyââ¬â¢s business model also provides a competitive advantage. Amazon benefits from being able to maintain a virtual store front with distribution centers located in low rent areas. In all, a combination of convenience, speed, reliability, discounted pricing, and a wide selection of merchandise creates a synergistic business design that cannot be easily duplicated. When developing Amazon.comââ¬â¢s corporate structure Bezos clearly understood and defined his business strategy. The organization would now need to design and implement a consistent and integrated marketing strategy. An important aspect of Amazon.comââ¬â¢s marketing strategy is their customer-centric approach. Amazon offers lower prices, free shipping, and customer service available 24/7. Also, the customer experience is enhanced through personalized recommendations and customized web pages. The organizationââ¬â¢s strength in customer service has been effective in increasing customer loyalty, website traffic, and repeat purchases. Amazon.com uses various marketing techniques that include online advertising, email campaigns, and their Associates Program. The Associates Program, which allows outside websites the ability to make products available to Amazon customers, has proven to be very successful. In 2001 over 700,000 associates were registered for the program. This marketing tool allowed Amazon.com the ability to ââ¬Å"expand its market beyond its own website and concentrate on its strength of order fulfillment and distributionâ⬠(Ratnasingham, 2006). Another key aspect of Amazon.comââ¬â¢s marketing strategy is their established strategic relationships with various traditional retailers. These alliances enhance the value offerings of customers, give the company a competitive advantage, and increase the market share for all companies involved. Some of Amazonââ¬â¢s partnerships include Toys ââ¬ËRââ¬â¢ Us for toys and video games, the Gap for clothing and Drugstore.com for pharmacy items. The company also has third party arrangements with Target Corporation, Borders Group, Expedia, and others. Amazon profits by providing customers with a diverse array of products while their allies are able to use the technology, services, andà tools of Amazon.com. A significant detail of any organizationââ¬â¢s marketing strategy is creativity and innovation. In her article for The Learning Organization, Verna Allee suggests that ââ¬Å"in order to sustain competitive strength and continue growth Western companies need to build innovation into their cultures and structures as an essential condition for value creationâ⬠(Allee & Taug, 2006). In 2008, Amazon.com was listed as number 20 in a list of the worldââ¬â¢s 25 most innovative companies (Cravens & Piercy, 2009). The new service offering of the EC2 and S3 digital utilities moves the company into competitive opportunities within the software platform marketplace. Bezosââ¬â¢ innovation strategy for Amazon.com includes these five following rules: 1) Measure everything 2) Keep development teams small 3) Donââ¬â¢t be afraid of weird ideas 4) Open up to outsiders 5) Watch customers, not competitors (Hoff, 2006) Amazon.comââ¬â¢s technological advances and Bezosââ¬â¢ forward-thinking has led the company to create ground-breaking products, such as the Kindle and also compete with top online digital music provider Apple ITunes. By encouraging continued innovation, Amazon can secure their place as leaders in Internet-based businesses. Amazon.com is in a position to gain from the various opportunities they have in the e-commerce marketplace. These opportunities include new trends and technological advances. Amazon competes well and has growth in the digital e-book market thanks to their Kindle product. Amazon can continue to invest in technology to sustain profitability. In general, E-commerce is experiencing growth. Amazon.com is in the position to benefit from this rise. The site currently offers payment security, one-click payments, user-friendly features, and other technologies that new web-based businesses will have to compete with. The company also has the opportunity to expand through strategic alliances and acquisitions. For example, GlobalData reports that Amazon.com acquisition of TouchCo earlier this year, ââ¬Å"is expected to bring about cost reduction in the companyââ¬â¢s businessâ⬠(GlobalData, 2010). Overall, Amazon.com employs strong marketingà strategies. GlobalData reports that the companyââ¬â¢s emphasis on marketing can be seen in their increased marketing costs in 2009, in comparison with 2008 and 2007 (GlobalData, 2010). However, Amazon.com is faced with some marketing problems. Because the company has a seasonal nature, more shoppers during the holiday seasons, the number of customers accessing the website at one time could cause system interruptions. This could contribute to fulfillment issues and a delay in deliveries. Also, Amazon.com faces the threat of traditional retail stores like Wal-Mart or Barnes & Nobles who now have an online component. Amazon.com now has to compete with companies who have greater brand recognition and more customers. The partnerships the company has made also pose a problem. For example, in 2004 Toys ââ¬ËRââ¬â¢ Us bought a case against the company because Toys ââ¬ËRââ¬â¢ Us exclusive items were being sold by competitors through Amazonââ¬â¢s website. Also the company suffered increased costs because of their alliance with Drugstore.com. To offset the problems and threats faced by the company, Amazon can benefit from the following strategic recommendations. First, during the off-season Amazon can do aggressive promotional campaigns to include discounts for students and partnerships with university and college professors to be the exclusive vendor for textbooks and suggested reading materials. Also, Amazonââ¬â¢s fulfillment processes should be evaluated to determine what issues are prevalent during the holiday season. Those issues should be addressed and fulfillment centers should be restructured accordingly. The company should re-evaluate their alliances by doing a cost assessment. By determining which costs are insignificant, expenses can be reduced or eliminated. Through the leadership of Jeff Bezos, Amazon.com continues to be the best and first by thinking outside the box. The company has changed the way consumers shop, the way they read, and the way entrepreneurs run their businesses. Bezos accepts his failures, focuses on what works and continues to support new ideas and hopeful initiatives. An evaluation of their marketing and corporate strategies to assess their failures can allow them the ability to make appropriate use of their opportunities. References Cravens, D. W., & Piercy, N. F. (2009). Strategic marketing (9th ed.). New York: McGraw-Hill. Hoff, R.D. (2006). Jeff Bezosââ¬â¢ risky bet. BusinessWeek, 52-58. Retrieved December 14 from ABI/INFORM Global. Hoff, R.D., & Green, H. (2002). How amazon cleared that hurdle: to earn a profit, it cut costsand started growing again. BusinessWeek, (3768), 60-61 Retrieved December 14 from ABI/INFORM Global. Hoff, R.D., Neuborne E., & Green, H. (1998 December). Amazon.com: the wild world of e-commerce: by pioneering ââ¬â and damn near perfecting ââ¬â the art of selling online, amazon is redefining retailing. BusinessWeek (3608), 106 Isckia, T. (2009). Amazonââ¬â¢s evolving ecosystem: a cyber-bookstore and application service provider. Canadian Journal of Administrative Sciences, 26(4), 332-343. Retrieved December 17 from ABI/INFORM Global. Kargar, J. (2004). Amazon.com in 2003. Journal of the International Academy for CaseStudies, 10(1), 33-52. Retrieved December 11, 2010 from ABI/INFORM Global. Ratnasingham, P. (2006). A swot analysis for b2c e-commerce: the case of amazon.com. International Journal of Cases in Electro nic Commerce, 2(1), 1-22, Retrieved December11, from ABI/INFORM Global.
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