Ligand Pharmaceuticals

The Ligand Company violated U.S. accounting standards and concepts, specifically U.S. GAAP when it understated its sales returns to present a better financial picture of the company. The research focuses on the Ligand violations of U.S. consistency, comaparability, and fair presentation standards and concepts (Bragg, 2007). The research focuses on the criticism on PCAOB for being too stringent. The financial statements must display the fair presentation of the organization’s business activities.Advertising We will write a custom report sample on Ligand Pharmaceuticals specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More International accounting standard 18 focuses on revenues. Revenue is income that is precipitates from the daily business activities of the company. Revenue is recorded when it is probable that future economic benefits will flow into the coffers of the company and the benefits can be measured (Bragg, 2007). Likewise, revenue rep resents the gross inflow of benefits from the daily business activities of the company. In this regard, sales return is a necessary accounting entry that reduces revenues to its net realizable. Gross sales less sales returns produces net sales; net sales is the revenue that represents the gross inflow of benefits from the company’s daily business operations. Likewise, international accounting standards 1, preparation of financial statements, discusses the intricacies of recording business transactions, including when, how, and how much should be recorded in terms of sales returns (www.IASB.com). Ligand failed to comply with the accounting standard and concept specially IAS 18 and IAS1. Ligand underestimated its sales return figures to show a fraudulent net revenue figure of only 2.5%. Ligand should present the real sales return figure which is higher. The higher sales return figure would reduce net revenues; this true net revenue estate presents a less favorable picture of Li gand when compared to the fraudulent net revenue shown in the Ligand financial statements. Fazio should use realistic figures such as the forecast done by Fazio’s auditing staff shown to be from 13% to 20%. Consequently, Fazio should not issue a non qualified opinion (Moeller, 2008). In response to the understatement of the sales returns, the external auditors should recommend an adjustment to the sales return figures from the erroneous 2.5% to the realistic figure; the realistic figure is from13% to 20%. Failure to comply with the audit recommendations would force the external auditors to avoid issuing a nonqualified opinion (Delaney Whittington, 2010). From its creation, the PCAOB had many criticisms from many affected sectors, especially the external auditing firm. There have been many complaints directed at the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board. One of the major criticisms is that the PCAOB’s issuance of AS2. This is a 150 page auditing standards that force s external auditors to metamorphose into a more conservative type of audit program when handling each audit client.Advertising Looking for report on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Another major complaint is that AS2 does not explain in detail how publicly listed companies establish a â€Å"fair† internal control system (Moeller 2008). Likewise, the PCAOB has forced external auditing firms to increase its audit expenses; the auditing firm must increase its audit time and audit program to ensure a better audit work as compared to the less stringent auditing program prevailing prior to the PCAOB and Sarbanes –Oxley Act. The PCAOB introduced the stricter audit policies to prevent a repeat of the Enron, WorldCom, and other accounting scandals where the external auditors connived with their clients to present fraudulent financial statements. Many audit companies complained that PCAOB –presc ribed auditing standards were too cumbersome and expensive (Daelen 2010). The PCAOB should implement some measures to improve the efficiency as well as effectiveness as a Sarbanes Oxley Act –created auditing oversight body. The PCAOB should hold regular meetings with representatives from all affected sectors of society, especially the external auditors. The PCAOB body should taper its stringent auditing policies to ensure the survival of the auditing firms. In addition, the PCAOB should openly receive suggestions from auditing firms and the client firms as basis for issuing future audit –related policies and procedures. Briefly, the Ligand Company violated U.S. accounting standards and concepts, specifically U.S. GAAP by understating sales returns. The external auditor required adjustments to correct the fraudulent Ligand Company financial report. The PCAOB has been criticized for being too stringent on the auditing firms. Indeed, financial statements should present th e fair presentation of the organization’s business activities. References Bragg, S. (2007) Wiley GAAP Policies and Procedures. New York, J Wiley Sons Press. Daelen, M. (2010) Risk Management and Corporate Governance. New York, Edward Press.Advertising We will write a custom report sample on Ligand Pharmaceuticals specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Delaney, P., Whittington, R., (2010) Wiley CPA Exam Review 2011: Auditing and  Attestation. New York,J. Wiley Sons Press. Moeller, R. (2008) Sarbanes -Oxley Internal Controls. New York, J Wiley Sons Press. This report on Ligand Pharmaceuticals was written and submitted by user Emilee F. to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.

Analysis of semco and pixar animated studio as an example of innovative organizations The WritePass Journal

Analysis of semco and pixar animated studio as an example of innovative organizations INTRODUCTION Analysis of semco and pixar animated studio as an example of innovative organizations INTRODUCTIONSEMCOPIXARTHEORIES OF INNOVATION USING EVIDENCE FROM SEMCO AND PIXARFEATURES OF INNOVATIVE ORGANISATIONS OR MANAGEMENT ACTIONSSUMARY AND CONCLUSIONREFERENCEBIBLIOGRAPHYRelated INTRODUCTION Innovation is essential for the success of an organisation as an organisation that wants to be a market leader in today chaotic and complex business world must be receptive to new ideas and continue to be innovative. .However, many organisations fail to realise the significance of innovation leading to the eventual loss of market share just like Nokia, one timed market leader in mobile industry which lost mobile markets to Apple. Companies like Semco, Gore and Associate, 3M and Pixar have made a reputation for themselves due to their emphasis on creativity. Innovation is a product of collaborative learning, idea generation, sharing and idea realization practices of workers in an organization (Dovey, 2009, p.311). For innovation to occur an organisation must foster an environment and culture that give room for creativity which is what Semco and Pixar have achieved. To this end, this report will analyse Semco and Pixar as an exemplar of innovative companies and the relationship that ex ist between them using some key theories of innovation and the defining features and managerial actions that set them apart as innovative organisations. SEMCO Semco is a loose organisation that encourages innovation and self organisation leading to trust, collaboration and cooperation. Semco was a small family engineering company originally called Semler and Company established in 1952 in Sao Paulo, Brazil by Antonio Curt Semler and renamed Semco after Ricardo Semler, the 24 year old son of the owner resumed office as the new chief executive officer in 1984, firing more than half of the top managers on his first day of resuming office as chief executive officer and eliminated all secretarial positions (CNN, 2004). The company prior to Ricardo taking over was characterised with autocratic style of management with control and rules being the order of the day and operating at the edge of collapse. Ricardo Semler favours a participating style of management, profit sharing and free flow of information. The company product range includes dishwashers, pumps, mixers, cooling units for air condition, biscuits factories among others (Semler 1999, p. 1). It is one of the most innovative companies in the world and has become the subject of study for most business schools all around the world due to its peculiar management style. There is no organisation structure that feeds managers ego, subordinates choose their own bosses, employees set their salaries, production targets and achieve them at their own time, and are encouraged to participate, share ideas and also share in the profit (Semler 1999, pp.1-7, 130 131). PIXAR Pixar animated studio was established in 1986 after Steve Jobs purchased the computer graphics division of Lucas films for $10 million with Ed Catmull being named co-founder and Chief technical officer, Smith as vice president alongside Steve Jobs (Price, 2008, p.74 85-197). In 2001, Ed Catmull was named Pixar’s president. The company originally manufactures and sell hardware and software that enable computer graphics to develop animations. In 1987, the company began the making of short films with its first computer generated movie, Toy Story being released in 1995. The company which is a wholly owned subsidiary of Walt Disney acquired 2006 at $7.4 billion and located in Emeryville, California (Paik, 2007). The acquisition will help Pixar gain economies of scale and access to new technologies.   Pixar has a range of films under its belt that has surpassed box office expectations from Rango, Hop, Toy Story 3, finding Nemo, the incredible and many others (Emerald Group Review , 2011). Its target audience cuts across all ages and nationalities and include families and children and its product range include short films in DVDs, soundtrack CDs, animated films among others (Price, 2008, pp.3-7). It fosters an environment that gives room for mistakes and encourages collaborations among teams and departments and devoid of micro management by executives to ensure creativity and innovation (YouTube-imperial college, 2009). THEORIES OF INNOVATION USING EVIDENCE FROM SEMCO AND PIXAR What makes Ricardo Semler and Ed Catmull exceptional in the way they run their companies? Could it be that they were born to innovation, an act of God, divine intervention, grace, or years of experience and acquisition of knowledge and education? Analysts and business tycoons have called these men genius. Some critics of Semler and Pixar would have called the transformation at these companies as a gift from the gods. However, it is worthy of note that Semco was a company already in operation prior to Ricardo taking over and Pixar had several failed attempts before its major breakthrough in 1995 with Toy Story. Emerald group, 2011 quoted Ed Catmull in Harvard Business Review ‘I don’t think our success is largely luck. Rather, I believe our adherence to a set of principles and practices for managing creative talent and risk is responsible.’ Was grace far from the transformation in these companies? Ricardo was one of the youngest graduates at Harvard Business School who would have learnt some of the traditional management theories in school but choose to manage in a uniquely different way that suite his life and believes suite those of his employees. Moreover, having had an encounter with a doctor who told him to change his work style, he decided to change his way of management, a factor that has led to the key changes at Semco today. Thus innovation at Semco may be a combination of association having graduated from Harvard, accident-a chance meeting with the doctor, personality-considering that while at high school he raised some money for the school vacation program which he reinvested to yield a return before the vacation, feature of life and a bit of cognitive considering the fact that innovation at Semco had evolved over time. It is far from being grace or act of gods. Several forms of innovation can be said to have taken placed at these organisations. They are: Organisational innovation: An organisational innovation is one that entails the implementation of a new organisational method in the firm’s business practices, workplace or external relations (Stoneman, 2010, p.17; OECD, 2006). It is often intended to increase a company’s performance through improvement in workplace satisfaction and labour productivity and access to knowledge. It entails an adoption of an organisational method such as flatter organisation structures, employees’ participation among others that have not being used before in an organisation and often results from strategic decisions taken by management (Stoneman, 2010, p.18). Semco and Pixar posses a great deal of organisational innovation. Semco had implemented theories that have never being tried before such as the satellites programs that allow ex-employees to open their own companies with financial help and resources and become partners with Semco and employees cutting their wages by 30% to Semc o at difficult times to get a higher returns when trading conditions get better. What drive such innovation are the organisational culture, structure and learning. Social innovation: This is the innovation that supports and it is beneficial to the society. Pixar is an example of such innovation whose films though animated have a lot of influence on the society both young and small. Its latest film, hop for instance gives social lessons about the role of adult and children in society. Semco has also contributed to the Brazilian society through employment and a reduction in job cuts. Traditional innovation: This is technological innovation and is measured in different ways such as through patents, expenditure and development among others. Semco and Pixar have shown a lot of innovation and creativity in technology with Pixar having a lot of patents. All these types of innovation create social capital which will be discussed later in this report. FEATURES OF INNOVATIVE ORGANISATIONS OR MANAGEMENT ACTIONS SEMCO and Pixar’s success is built on a lattice or flatter organisational structure devoid of control culture that has gone through series of transformation through the years which has enhanced their innovative ability. An organisational culture devoid of control fosters innovation as individuals are giving the freedom to self organise and make their own decisions just like Semco where employees set their salaries and take decisions on production targets and the time they meet such targets (Semler, 1999,   p.1). These companies have been able to manage innovation in the following ways: Structure and culture: Organisational design is crucial to the continuous innovation of an enterprise. As the business environment becomes complex and uncertain, so is the organisational design changing to meet up with customers’ demands for value maximising products. Traditional management scientists like Max Weber emphasised formal structure which is a top-down approach characterised with command, control, rules, position power and neglect social and psychological influences on behaviours of employees and teams (Burnes 2000, p.45). Employees are likely to respond to a good leader who they trust and respect than being managed in a bureaucratic way as argued by Adair 1986:54. Semco operates a lattice structure and considers all workers as equal and has reduced bureaucracy from twelve layers of management to three (Semler 1999, p.7). Reduced hierarchies and high involvement will lead to faster decision making and idea generation and information sharing, leading to innovation. F ormal organisational structure stifles individual creativity. In the words of Semler, authoritarianism diminishes productivity and as such no privileges or rules that discourages flexibility (Semler, 1999, p. 4). At Semco, People are made to enjoy their job and feel good about themselves, not just to survive. Business strategy in the company is determined without interference from the top. Similarly, Pixar is free from the thick layers of formal management and executives are not involved in the day to day running of the organisation. All employees are equally important and all work together for the success of a story. Both companies are devoid of micro-management which ensures creativity and innovation. To have these kind of organisations require a conducive organisational culture that is devoid of control. In the words of Ed Catmull, ‘Management really doesn’t tell people what to do.’   Thus both companies give employees freedom to take risk and there is refle ction, learning and feedback. However , not everyone can work in an environment with such a structure as some people like being told what to do, also, people wants to know what their responsibilities are and who they are report to while others do not like responsibility. It means that such environment will attract liked minded individuals. Trust and Freedom: Due to the flexible organisational structure and lack of formal reporting structures, employees can be trusted to carry out their roles. However, there is a tendency for employees to abuse the system giving the few reporting structures. Semco has absolute trust in her employees and encourages them to be self managing and governing and have made partners with them. There is so much trust that Semco made entrepreneurs out of its workers through assistance with setting up their own company through its satellite programs, buy from them and encourage them to sell to its competitors. One will assume trust will not be a possibility giving the large number of employees of over 3000. Semco has defiled business school expectations and has gone as far as allowing workers to participate in managerial decision making from deciding how much they get paid, to unlimited access to financial information and freedom to work whenever and wherever they choose and meet targets at their own set time and set their salaries which has resulted in impressive growth, long term loyalty and increase and better productivity. To Semler, his interest is in the final result not where, how and hours worked (Easen, 2004). Freedom drives performance and encourages innovation. Staff can work better if given more independence (Handy, 2004). Semco adopts a participating or democratic management style that create an atmosphere where both bosses and subordinates ( partners and associate) interact regardless of jobs and position and all are involved in decision making (Semler, 1999.pp.6 81). In the words of Semler (1999, p. 6), ‘We don’t have as many bosses as we used to. As workers began to exercise more control over their jobs and assume more voices in our policies, the need for supervisors diminished.’ Having trust in individual will give them a sense of belonging and being wanted and encourage new ideas and sharing of ideas among one another. Semco and Pixar re alised that the most powerful resources at their disposal are the people who make things happen in their organisations and have learnt to trust, believe in them and give them the freedom to express their innovative capabilities and drive production forward. Trust is seen as an outcome of social capital and shared values (Cote and Healy, 2001). However, the problem with freedom is that not everyone like being free. Some people want to be controlled and directed to get their job done. Some see control as a motivator. Moreover, some top managers may resist the need for reduced hierarchies for fear of losing control and power. Social capital and Collaboration: At Semco and Pixar, there is collaboration and teamwork as people work together for common and shared values and not get in each others’ way but are committed to the achievement of the common goal of the company. At Semco, employees participate in managerial decision not just relating to their jobs but the business as a whole. They are included in decisions that pertain to choosing who their boss becomes (Easen, 2004). Before people are hired or promoted to leadership positions, they are interviewed and approved by all who will be working for them, and every six months managers are evaluated by their subordinates.   Semco has autonomous business units established by ex- employees who open their own business with help from Semco and have become partners, associate and collaborators and has made Semco a leaner and agile organisation (Semler, 1999 P.7). Also different departments and business units and teams work collectively to drive innovatio n forward at Semco and Pixar. Easen, 2004 reported Semler as saying that ‘Growth and profit are a product of how people work together.’ There is a balanced collaboration at Pixar as artist and technologists are paired together. Every offer or idea is accepted and then people get the chance to plus it (Nelsen, 2008). A term Nelsen called ‘plussing’- taking an idea or a piece of work and find a way to add or improve upon it without judging it. At Pixar, collaboration means amplification whereby employees who are listening and interested in each other are joined together to work and bring separate depth to the problems and breadth that gives them interest in the solution as well as allow teams to communicate at different levels. The brain trust at Pixar is a framework or forum that gives an opportunity for some of the best brains to use their expertise and experience to share their understanding and knowledge with others and to get feedback. The Organisation f or Economic Development and Cooperation, OECD defines social capital as ‘networks together with shared norms, values and understandings that facilitate cooperation within or among groups’ (ONS, 2001; Cote and Healy, 2001:41). It is the glue that holds organisations together and enables employees to join forces more effectively and pursue shared objectives. In a culture of continual change and uncertainty, sustainable communities are those who are collaborative and always growing with and towards each other in the formation, sharing and adaptation to new knowledge (Smith and Paquette, 2010). Some of the outcomes of social capital are social relations, trust, collaboration, mutually enforceable agreement, general reciprocity and innovation (ONS, 2001). In Semco there is mutually enforceable agreement resulting from profit sharing. In the past, Pixar had used stock to motivate employees and encourage them to stay. Also, the need to produce quality output at Pixar could be a form of mutually enforceable agreement (Price 2008, p. 114). Pay recognition: Motivation such as adequate pay, interpersonal relations and work and group dynamics are some factors that increase productivity and workers satisfaction (Mullins, 2007, p.53). Employees will be committed to work if they are being paid fairly and feel that their contribution is appreciated in the organisation. Semco’s employees set their salaries and share in the profits. As Semler (1999, P. 4) says, ‘Profit-sharing is democratic. We negotiate with our workers over the basic percentage to be distributed- about a quarter of our corporate profit.’ This has worked so well at Semco as there is very low labour turnover and when the need arises, those laid off are assisted to form their own company. Reward systems and benefits retain people and lead to workers’ satisfaction, commitment and loyalty (Chiu et al, 2002). There were times when workers salary proposal were rejected in instances of over- statement. Contrary to this is the argument that financial rewards are not enough to motivate people and that group pressure has more influence on employees than financial rewards (Mullins, 2007, p.301). In addition, people also have intrinsic motivation derives from within the individual which propels them towards the need for self actualisation and fulfilment. Learning and feedback/ Gives room for mistakes/Risk taking: Learning within projects teams depends heavily on the inflow and transfer of knowledgeable among them. Semco and Pixar are learning organisations. Such organisations give room for failure and learning from mistakes and encourage risk taking and have a wide tolerance for new ideas and do not punish mistakes. A learning organisation was defined by Johnson et al (2008) as, ‘One capable of continual regeneration from the variety of knowledge, experience and skills of individuals that encourage mutual questioning and challenge around a shared purpose or vision.’ Semler pointed out that mistake is welcome and a sign that the employee is taking enough risk. Without mistakes, there will not be learning and consequently, innovation will be stifled. Likewise at Pixar, continuous innovation requires that executives resist the natural tendencies to minimise risks and accept uncertainty to ensure originality and ability to r ecover from failures resulting from taking risks. It encourages creativity by allowing people to experiment with new ideas and mistakes genuinely made are treated as part of the learning process Emerald Group review, 2011). Mistake are not punished at Pixar but seen as building block for new ideas and innovation just like 3M. Pixar endorses and encourages   a creative by rejecting hierarchical and controlled system, instead the taking of risks and recognizes the importance of serendipity in the creative process (Smith and Paquette, 2010) It has been argued that employees’ collective knowledge exceeds those of the organisation and its capabilities and managers should aim at encouraging processes that unlock employees’ knowledge and encourage information, knowledge and idea sharing which is the sort of environment both companies have created for their employees. As a narrator said, each movies produced by Pixar contains a combination of tens of thousands of ideas arisi ng from risk taking, failure and learning. Ed Catmull said that ‘Innovative people are failure recovered not failure avoider.’ Both companies give room for reflection, learning and feedback. The benefits of learning cannot be over emphasis. Learning increases employees’ commitment, improve quality as mistakes are identified. Senge 1999 reiterated that organisational learning leads to organisational performance. Commitment: At Semco, everyone is committed to the achievement of the organisation’s objectives as they all feel a sense of belonging and part ownership of the company arising partly from the profit sharing. Employees are seen as being importance and valued. A worker in an interview said if an employee is idle, another worker will often ask why he or she is not working, reminding him or her that failure to work will reduce their profits and subsequently reduction in money for their pockets. So there is peer pressure. If employees feel that they are being trusted to take decision on their own and self manage, they will be committed. Semco operates an egalitarian company where there is no preferential treatment. Parking lots are for first come basis and all employees eat on the same canteen. Meetings are held based on the first two employees to be present. This makes employees feel as being a part of the team and big family and give them a sense of being wanted by the company. B y removing privileges of ranks, employees will see themselves as a wider community, thus feel comfortable voicing their opinion, leading to generation of new ideas. Dynamism:   Semco is a highly flexible company with no boundaries to the type of business and products, making it difficult to say exactly what kind of business the company is in. There is no fixed business and it is open to any form of business that comes their way. It is also characterised with the absence of business plans and company strategy. In the words of Semler (2003, p.4), ‘ Once you say what business you are in, you create boundaries for you employees, you restrict their thinking and give them a reason to ignore new opportunities as they will say we are not in that business.’ Semco is so dynamic in its operations and processes that employees must not use one desk two days in a row. This is to make them difficult to track and are free to move and work anywhere that appeals to them be it home office. There is time flexibility as they are not concerned about when the employees arrive at work. However, contracts are negotiated on the basis of what to be achieved at a set period and what it stands to gain for paid value and what the employees get in return. It is a mutually enforceable agreement as both parties- employees and Semco benefit. Pixar, though in a core line of business of animated films, it is not to say it is not a dynamic company as different forms of films that benefits both adult and children have being produced over the years. There is effective communication at both companies due to the organisational culture and flatter structure devoid of control. There is information, idea and knowledge sharing. At Pixar, technologists communicate with the artists. SUMARY AND CONCLUSION Semco and Pixar are said to be innovative even though the companies are different in what they do and how they approach innovation. Nevertheless, some common factors in both companies is the delegation of a large amount of control to their employees and absolute freedom to take risk and give room for mistakes and failure, giving them freedom to generate new ideas and thus take a more active role and commitment. Both companies have decentralised the management structures to get employees more involved in decision making and give them a sense of belonging. They have created a culture that gives room for mistakes, failures, sharing of information, and ideas. There is also collaboration between employees, teams, departments, business units and partners, trust, social capital, communication, lack of micro-management and similar organisational culture and structure which encourages innovation. However, both companies differ in a number of ways such as absence of profit sharing at Pixar, la nguages, products, country of location and time scales. Having carried out a detailed analysis of Semco and Pixar, it is possible that what works at these companies can be applicable to other companies. However, some disadvantages will be accrued if these features are applied in another company characterised with hierarchical control culture and structure such as resistance from top management who are control freaks and unwilling to relinquish power. Moreover, not everyone will be able to self manage as some people like being controlled and told what to do. In addition, that trust and freedom work well in these organisations does not mean it can be implemented in other organisations as differences in culture and environment will play a role in determining its effectiveness in another company with different organisational culture and business environment. Having said this, nothing is worth not trying, so these managerial actions that have worked so well in these organisations can be applied to other organisations. The reward may not be see n immediately, but in the long run, it will pay off. REFERENCE ADAIR, J. 1986. Effective Team Building: How to make a Winning Team. London: Gower Publishing Co Ltd.BURNES, B. 2000. Managing Change: A Strategic Approach to Organisational Dynamics. 3rd edn. England: Pearson Education Ltd. CHIU, R. K, LUK, W.V AND TANG, T.L (2002) Retaining and motivating employees: Compensation preferences in Hong Kong and China. Personnel Review [Online journal], 31 (4), pp.402-431. Available from Emerald at emeraldinsight.com/search.htm?st1=Retaining+and+motivating+employees%3A+Compensation+preferences+in+Hong+Kong+and+Chinact=allec=1bf=1 . (April 19 2011). COTE, S AND HEALY, T. (2001) The Well-being of Nations. The role of human and social capital. Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development, Paris. CNN. 2004. Ricardo Semler, Semco SA. [WWW] http://edition.cnn.com/2004/BUSINESS/06/29/semler.profile/index.html?iref=allsearch     (27 April 2011). DOVEY, K. 2009. The role of trust in innovation. The Learning Organization [online journal] 16(4). Pp.311-325. Available from Emerald at emeraldinsight.com/search.htm?st1=role+of+trust+in+innovationct=allec=1bf=1 . (March23/3/2011). EASEN, N. 2004. Interview with Ricardo Semler. [WWW] http://edition.cnn.com/2004/BUSINESS/05/19/go.semlar.transcript/index.html   (15 April 2011). EASEN, N. 2004. Democracy in the Workplace. [WWW] http://edition.cnn.com/2004/BUSINESS/05/19/go.democratic.workplace/index.html?iref=allsearch   (15 April 2011). EMERALD GROUP, 2011. How Pixar animates its talent team: not knowing the answers can be the way ahead. Development and Learning in Organizations [Online journal], 25 (1), pp.   30-32. Available from Emerald at emeraldinsight.com/search.htm?st1=pixarct=allec=1bf=1. (April 8 2011). HANDY C, 2004. Giving your Staff More Freedom. [WWW] http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/ hi/ business /4058519.stm   (1 April 2011). JOHNSON, G, SCHOLES, K AND WHITTINGTON, R. 2008. Exploring Corporate Strategy: Text and Cases. 8th edn. England: Pearson Education Limited. MULLINS, L. J, 2007. Management and Organisational Behaviour. 8th edn. Essex: Pearson Education Limited. NELSEN, R. 2008. Pixar’s Randy Nelsen on the Collaborative Age. [WWW] youtube.com/watch?v=QhXJe8ANws8   (1 April 2011). OFFICE OF NATIONAL STATISTICS. 2001. Social Capital: A review of the literature. [WWW] statistics.gov.uk/socialcapital/downloads/soccaplitreview.pdf (26 April 2011). PAIK, K. 2007. To Infinity and Beyond: The story of Pixar Animation Studio. London: Virgin Books Ltd. PIXAR GROUP 24. 2009. Innovation Management: Imperial College. [WWW] youtube.com/watch?v=dTB5S2mc3wA (20 March 2011). PRICE, D. A.2008. The Pixar Touch: The Making of a Company. USA: Alfred A. Knopf. SEMLER, R. 2003. The Seven-Day Weekend. London: Century. SEMLER, R. Semco Ricardo Semler MIT SF 11 Leading organizations. [WWW] youtube.com/watch?v=k1qJ2W9cVDM (14 April 2011). SEMLER, R. (1999) Maverick! The Success Story Behind the Worlds most  Unusual Workplace.  London: Random House Business Books. SEMLER, R. 2007. Interview with Ricardo Semler. [WWW] youtube.com/watch?v=gJkOPxJCN1wfeature=related (13 March 2011). SENGE, P.M. (1999). It’s the learning: the real lesson of quality movement. The Journal for Quality and Participation, 22 (6)Pp.34-40. STONEMAN, P. 2010. Soft Innovation: Economics, Product Aesthetics and Creative Industries. New York: Oxford University Press.SMITH, S. AND PAQUETTE, S. (2010). Creativity, chaos and knowledge management. Business Information Review, 27 (2), pp. 118-23. BIBLIOGRAPHY BESSANT, J. 2003. High Involvement innovation: Building and Sustaining Competitive Advantage Through Continuous Change. England: John Wiley Sons. CHRISTENSEN, C.M, AND ERIK, A.R. 2004. Seeing What is Next: Using the Theories of Innovation to Predict Industry Change. USA: Harvard Business school Press. BURDETH, O.J. 1994. The Magic of Alignment. Management Decision [online journal], 32 (2), pp. 59-63. Available from Emerald at emeraldinsight.com/search.htm?st1=alignmentct=allec=1bf=1go=Go. (March 3 2011).

Definition and Types of Interjections

Definition and Types of Interjections Interjections are words or phrases that express emotions. You might use an interjection to express surprise (Wow!), confusion (Huh?), or outrage (No!). You may use interjections in casual and in creative writing. You should not use interjections in formal writing, like book reports and research papers. You can use a noun, a verb, or an adverb as an interjection. Noun as an interjection: Foolishness! Your dog is not smarter than my dog! Verb as an interjection: Clap! He deserves some applause for that performance. Adverb as an interjection: Nope! You cannot go into that room until I give you permission. What Do Interjections Look Like? One word: Wow!Phrase: I’m shocked! List of Interjections Baloney! I don't agree with that! Cheers! Good tidings! Duh! That makes sense! Eureka! I found it! EEK! That's scary! Get out! I don't believe it! Golly! I'm amazed! Gee! Really? Huh? What was that? Incredible! That's amazing! Jinx! Bad luck! Ka-boom! Bang! Look! See that! My! Oh dear! Never! I hope that never happens. Oops! I've had an accident. Phooey! I don't believe it! Quit! Stop that! Rats! That's not good! Shoot! I don't like that! Tsk tsk! Shame on you! Ugh! Not good! Woot! Hurray! Wow! Amazing

Steroid use in sports Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Steroid use in sports - Research Paper Example The underlying question is the source of the opinion that the steroids are crucial in muscle and strength development. The society has played a significant part and this is the reason for the increase in steroid use even among the youths. Like any other drugs, steroids are entirely used for their anticipated results. Through their use, one is able to increase his strength and body conformation within a short period (Harris 59). This is contrary to the natural method of improving one’s body conformation and strength though hard regular exercise. Despite this, use of steroids is usually combined with exercise in order to achieve the desired results. Since the user advocate that its use is not right, they usually take them in their privacy. It is evident that everyone wants to be a winner in everything he undertakes. Numerous records have been put and broken by many. This has been a source of motivation to various persons, who are ready to undertake anything in order to break the records. Furthermore, the returns to the winners are soaring up which have been a motivator for all. The number of youth engaging in the use of steroids has been on the increase and is now becoming an international concern. This is mainly because youths are less aware of the side effects of steroids use. On the other hand, ignorance curiosity led them to using the drug. At their age, many adore fame and recognition and thus they use the drugs in order to have a competitive edge over other athletes. The athletes consume the steroids in many ways. The choice of the method used depends on the urgency of realizing the anticipated results and the side effects of the method. Some of the most commonly used methods include Oral steroids – these steroids are consumed through the mouth in the form of pills or liquid. The steroids are observed to

HOW DOES OUR FAITH IN RELIGION AND SCIENCE AFFECT OUR GAINING NEW Essay

HOW DOES OUR FAITH IN RELIGION AND SCIENCE AFFECT OUR GAINING NEW KNOWLEDGE - Essay Example As a result, there have been conflicts as to the reliability of science or religion as sources of knowledge, which in turn affects people’s acquisition of new knowledge. In view of this, the aim of this paper is to show how faith in science and religion affect people’s acquisition of new knowledge. Knowledge can be pursued through religion or science, though they both use different methodologies. As stated earlier, research has revealed that conflicts exist between science and religion. Moreover, owing to controversial scientific discoveries, religion and science have been increasingly drifting apart. Science and religion differ because; while scientific knowledge is gained through empiricism and reason, religious knowledge is based on faith and divine revelation. In view of this, people with strong religious beliefs may not easily accept new knowledge that is not based on faith or divine revelation. On the other hand, people with strong scientific beliefs may reject ne w knowledge that is not based on reason or empiricism. The differences in perspectives between science and religion have further been facilitated by the fact that while science is constantly changing, religion tends to be static most of the times. Religious doctrines rarely change, thus people who have faith in religion may have this mentality when it comes to the acquisition of new knowledge. Such people are usually hesitant to embrace new changes or developments in the society. Moreover, any teachings that deviate from their religious beliefs are rejected, regardless of how helpful they might be. This absence of tolerance could hinder such people from acquiring new knowledge, since they are severely restricted by religion. Science on the other hand is more flexible, thus individuals with faith in science are open to new ideas. They also tend to be tolerant about other people’s opinions, since their perceptions are not restricted by any religious doctrine. As a result, it is easier for people who have faith in science to gain new knowledge, since such knowledge is considered a stepping stone to future discoveries. The inflexibility of religion has been demonstrated in various ways, showing that it indeed hinders people from acquiring new knowledge. The religious stand on the issue of HIV/AIDS is a good illustration that faith in religion affects how people respond to new knowledge. Owing to the prevalence of HIV/AIDS, scientists have recommended the use of condoms as one method of minimizing spread of the disease, which has no cure. However, the church, which is a religious institution, has strongly opposed use of condoms. The Catholic Church strongly opposes the use of condoms, yet scientists have proved that condoms are effective in curbing the spread of the disease. Faith in religion that condoms are not acceptable by the Roman Catholic Church has affected efforts by health professionals to teach people that using condoms reduces the chances of cont racting the disease. Roman Catholics cannot accept the use of condoms under any circumstances, while at the same time they do not have a better solution to stop the spread of HIV/AIDS. Although this new knowledge could actually save their lives, it is rejected on the basis of faith in religion. In this case, it is apparent that while scientific claims are backed up by proven facts, the refusal of condom use by the church is only based on faith rather

College Student Stress Coping Essay Example for Free

College Student Stress Coping Essay College students facing academic, social, and other stresses such as finances and how to cope with them. The most common stress most college students face is the stress from the work load that is common in a higher education system. This is the major challenge, and you will be facing without the close guidance you may have previously enjoyed from a teacher or parent; Social stress seems to be more prominent with underclassmen leaving home and there support structure from home but can affect any college student. Most students find that the number one cause of stress for them is financially trying to juggle a full load, and work full time to support yourself and for other students pay for school. Academic stress seems to be what cause the biggest problem for most students. There are some things you can do if you would like to lower your stress level and make student life better. First thing you should do is get the right information from the very beginning. How many lectures, seminars or laboratory sessions are you supposed to be attending? With your assignments make sure you know exactly what you are being asked to do? How many words you’re expected to write and what the deadline is for handing it in. Also try to set up your own space for academic’s to make it easier to focus and concentrate, if you have a noisy roommate try to find a place in the library or even a local coffee shop to frequent. These suggestions will help lower your academics stress which will make life easier for the college student. Social stress for college students is something else that is very common especially in new college students. Most social stress comes from trying to fit it or even trying to create a new social network because in most case’s this is the first time away from home and away from your entire support structure and comfort zone. With social stress one of the most important things to remember is to try and stay involved in different activities at school and get involved with different organizations on campus to meet new people. When getting involved with the organization’s on campus you’ll meet new friends and become more socially outgoing which will help greatly with social stress. Reducing the amount of social stress in college students, will lead to a more enjoyable and positive experience. Financial stress tends to be to\he root of most students problems whether it’s from overspending, lack of proper guidance, peer pressure, inexperience or many other factors. As a result just about everyone is bogged down with large debts increasing day by day. As students many have tried different things to cut down expense but still no luck. There are many ways to help lift the financial stress for college students like taking federal or private loans, grants and scholarships, and working during the summer vacation. By taking federal or private loans you get to choose the best one that is suitable for your need, if you decide to go for a private one then do enough research to make sure you’re not at a loss and end up paying more instead of benefitting from it. Grants and scholarships are another great ideas because these will help lift the burden of some financial stress. When applying for grants and scholarships keep in mind these are offered free by federal organizations for the benefit of students. Make sure to take advantage of the situation but you have to prove worthy for these aids. Getting summer jobs will also help lift some of that financial stress because you can do it in your off time and not stress with studying or school work but catch up and save some money! The best ways for college students to cope with the stress of being away from home, social stress, and financial stress. Academic stress seems to be one of the most common among students. Most college students find that the added freedom of being away from the structure at home and the more difficult classes to be extremely stressful. Just remember try and create your own space for studying with a desk and a quiet place, if you have a noisy roommate find a nice place in the library or a nice local coffee shop to visit. Social stress also seems to be a major problem with college students. Trying to fit in and make new friends after leaving there comfort zone and support structure can be difficult. When starting at college try and get involved in activities to get you out and have a good time. Another great thing to do is get into some organizations to help meet new people and even become more outgoing to make the college experience more fun and less stress. Financial stress seems to be the biggest burden for college students trying to survive on your own and worrying about how you will pay for  school. Remember federal and private loans are a great way to lift stress off you but just do your research and find the one that will work best for your needs. Grants and scholarships are the best thing for most students because they are offered for free from federal organizations but you must prove yourself for these aids Summer jobs are great for students who want to make a little extra cash on the side and lift the stress and worry of college off their mind. B y following some of these tips you are sure to reduce some stress in your everyday college life.

Literary Modes in War Literature, Such as The Things They Carried Essay

Literary Modes in War Literature The immediate impact of The Things They Carried is based on O'Brien's fidelity to detail. The things they carried were largely determined by necessity. Among the necessities or near necessities were P-38 can openers, pocket knives, heat tabs, wristwatches, dog tags, mosquito repellent, chewing gum, candy, cigarettes, salt tablets, packets of Kool-Aid, lighters, matches, sewing kits, Military Payment Certificates, C rations, and two or three canteens of water. Together these items weighed between 15 and 20 pounds. These facts are combined with the intangible and the psychological. They all carried ghosts, they shared the weight of memory and they carried all the emotional baggage of men who might die or already have passed away. O'Brien uses his detail and sense of war to bring meaning to his war story. I felt that the use of Tragedy, Myth and Gothic were well constructed literary modes in the novel "The Things They Carried". These men in the story carry heavy physical loads, they als o all carry heavy emotional loads, composed of grief, terror, love, and longing. Each man's physical burden underscores his emotional burden. After the war, the psychological burdens the men carry during the war continue to define them. Those who survive carry guilt, grief, and confusion, and many of the stories in the collection are about these survivors' attempts to come to terms with their experience. Repeatedly in The Things They Carried O'Brien forces this image before us to convey the tragedy of war. It also serves as a metaphor for combat to American soldiers in Vietnam "the shit" referred to "the day-to-day combat operations endured by GIs in the field" (Clark 463). O'Brien relays this conventional metap... ...trasting external mythologies to internal mythologies and comparing them both to real truths. O'Brien begins to make these comparisons right from start, as he presents the external mythology of courage in opposition to the experience of his soldiers. O'Brien says, "The war is entirely a matter of posture and carriage" (15). This is not merely a reference to how the soldiers must stand or how they carry their packs. It is also about the things the soldiers carry in their minds, and the posture they must maintain is the challenge to show bravery in the face of immense fear. Myth, such as O'Brien at the helm of modern war novels, the term courage takes on new dimensions. It becomes more personal. It requires an honest quest by the individual to discover his or her own internal truths. Once found, we need to have the courage to defend it against the enemy that is myth.

Comparing Political Philosophy Theories Essay

Respond to the prompt for each of the five ethical theories listed. One section on each chart has been filled in as an example. What is good? (1–2 sentences) Aristotle – Virtue Ethics Mill – Utilitarianism Kant – Deontology Consequentialism Nodding – Care Ethics what would you say is our principal or highest objective by nature? According to Aristotle, it is the attainment of happiness, for it is that alone that we seek for its own sake. Based on Aristotle assertion a woman bearing a child is good.For J.S. Mill, decreasing pain and increasing pleasure is good. However, not all pleasure is the same. Mill argues that intellectual pleasures are superior to bodily pleasures (Mill, Utilitarianism, and Chapter 2).â€Å"Act only on that maxim whereby you can at the same time will that it should become a universal law.† Basically made poor decisions or ethical decision based on rational thinking.The theory that the value and especially the moral value of an action should be judged by the value of its consequences.The ethics of care is a normative ethical theory; that is, a theory about what makes actions right o r wrong. What path or rule do you follow to achieve the good? (1–2 sentences) Aristotle – Virtue EthicsMill – UtilitarianismKant – DeontologyConsequentialismNodding – Care EthicsFor Aristotle, virtue is the way to achieve the good. Moral virtue is a state of character and can only be acquired by habit. In other words, we need to practice being morally virtuous in order to be virtuous. Aristotle describes moral virtue as a mean. We act morally, if we do the right thing, at the right time, â€Å"with reference to the right objects, towards the right people, with the right motive and in the right way† (Nicomachean Ethics, Book II, 1 and 6; see also Moore and Bruder, 2011, p. 265).Utilitarianism advocates maximizing utilities and moral evaluations of public policies. It helps explain why some people actions are generally wrong and others are generally right and he influenced ethical decisions.The deontology refers to moral obligation. As we made the decisions that life must understand the one right is important even though everyone is tomorrow wrong always do right regardless.I think by taking in consideration the moral value and the actions the standard display when making decisions. Understanding the consequences to see the decision if not follow out a law of land.It is important to love thy neighbor. It sounds a little clichà © it’s however basically we should live our life each day by exercise the care ethics system. Assumptions or requirements (2–4 sentences) Aristotle – Virtue EthicsMill – UtilitarianismKant – DeontologyConsequentialismNoddings – Care EthicsAristotle) is basing his theory of nationalistic ethical. This belief was pretty good for us as defined by our natural objective.His requirement was basically reducing pain that will actually increase pleasure. In essence making sound decisions based on bodily pleasures.And Kant’s theory the deontology base is the study of moral obligation. As we are responsible for our actions and doing what right at all times.The first assumption is that after all is said and done, only the results of our actions remain, therefore, the results are what a moral theory should focus on. The second assumption is that we love others as much as we love ourselves. This assumption means that we will act to promote the overall good, so long as that action â€Å"does not hurt others more† (Haines, 2006).First we must display some level of sensitivity to be able to exe mplify desires spirit. We are responsible up in our brains keep a careful one of the actions is careful and must consider the feeling that so that we don’t interfere with you making ethical decision. Provide an example of how this ethical theory might work (5 or more sentences) Aristotle – Virtue EthicsMill – UtilitarianismKant – DeontologyConsequentialismNoddings – Care EthicsVirtue ethics is a theory used to make moral decisions. It does not rely on religion, society or culture; it only depends on the individuals themselves. The main philosopher of Virtue Ethics is Aristotle. His theory was originally introduced in ancient Greek times. Aristotle was a great believer in virtues and the meaning of virtue to him meant being able to fulfill one’s functions The utilitarianism works in determining consideration of right conduct should be useful of his consequences. This spectacle theory is basically based off the fat that is largely possible ability of balance pleasure over pain. This action should take a lot of consideration which the way we made the decision about disciplinary action on people or even animals. It was said that the actions of sacrifice and people or animals is wrong. So drawn my friend coworker on the bus and a heated argument with display that ethics.The deontology is the basis of more action duties. The principle of goodwill is what makes people act for duty, and acting for duty given them action of more value. However the action does not take into consideration the consequences thereof. From the consequentialism also known as the idea of the therapist is less and this chapter we discuss the beauty and friendship as well as pleasure that one should aim towards maximizing on. Lovely decision in my life and ethical way to maintain friendship even though that means sometimes being completely honest with a friend. It is very important that we made the decisions that will be conducive to our morals and ethical background. As a result that’s the beauty of the virtual ethic.My best friend comes to me asking for advice. She is having problems in her marriage and just found out she is pregnant. Due to the economic downturn, she may lose her job in the coming months. Her relationship with her husband is strained and is having a serious emotional toll on her. She is considering an abortion. I am the carer and she is the cared-for. I do not consider her unborn child because my friend is the one in immediate pain or peril. I recommend counseling. I also try and gently ask questions to see what options she has and what she has thought about. I do not tell her what I think she should do in this case or what I think is right or wrong. I only ask how I can help her.

Integrative Running Case Study: Starbucks Essay

Starbucks A case analysis of Starbucks can provide a much closer look at the company, its strengths and weaknesses, as well as the company’s ability to do business on a global scale. In order to best analyze this company, a SWOT analysis, along with answers to the case study questions is provided below. Furthermore, a few recommendations are included that are brought to light by reviewing the facts of the Starbucks case study. This thorough investigation of the Starbucks company adds a rather complicated â€Å"flavor† to my favorite caramel macchiato that had never before been considered. Starbucks has been serving coffee domestically since the early 1970’s. After experiencing success in the domestic market, Starbucks entered the global marketplace, including opening its first stores in China in 1999. (Lamb, p.139) The company entered the Chinese marketplace knowing the vast opportunities that were available, but quite aware that many factors had to be accounted for in its marketing mix and product offering strategies. Cultural, political, and economic factors played important roles in discovering the best plan for delivering a lucrative coffee business to a land where the majority of consumers had never even had a cup of coffee. Partnering with local developers provided a safer market-entry strategy that Starbucks was ready to relinquish in 2006. After gaining several years of experiencing in the business environment of China, Starbucks embraced the chance to try its own hand at delivering a lucrative business operating in an environment that had many similarities to its domestic marketplace in the United States. A discussion of the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities,  and threats for the Starbucks company is provided to further understand its success in the global marketplace. Strengths: The decision Starbucks made to enter the Chinese marketplace wasn’t without extensive research. Starbucks had an already-existing marketing mix that was working well and generating large profits in its homeland. The knowledge and expertise found in the existing Starbucks employees were an important strength for the company as it planned its business venture in China. As a successful domestic coffee-seller and cafe business, Starbucks had funding and financial resources to work with when entering the foreign Chinese market. Furthermore, the reputation of Starbucks and its business growth and success certainly attracted additional funding from shareholders when taking the Starbucks brand globally. Weaknesses: Though Starbucks was a well-tested brand in its domestic market, Starbucks faced new market-entry obstacles. The idea of entering a foreign market on its own was not a wise decision, and therefore, Starbucks would have to rely on foreign partnerships to expand its brand globally. (Lamb, p. 140) This reliance on a partnership could be costly as profits are shared even though market-entry risks are lowered. The expense of making mistakes and learning from them, as well as creating a whole new marketing mix for Chinese consumers was certainly a costly investment. Opportunities: Even though entering the Chinese market would prove to have some obstacles, the company certainly realized the many opportunities that existed for creating its brand in China. Entering a market that consisted of consumers who had very little experience with coffee would leave Starbucks as a unique product with potential for elasticity in its pricing with very little competition from other â€Å"coffee† shops. Furthermore, changes in the Chinese youth’s view of collectivism was drastically changing as they focused more on individuality. (Lamb, p.139) This offered a similar environment to the domestic market in the United States. Additionally, the research Starbucks initiated would show that a specific need for a place for  people to gather together was in high demand in China. Starbucks knew that providing that experience combined with the distribution of â€Å"coffee† (a symbol of the modernizing of China) could provide a whole unique experience that youth would be quick to embrace. Similarly, economic success in the region proved the needs for disposable income for expensive coffee drinks could be met easily by the growing and expanding economy. Threats: Just as there are many opportunities when a company enters a whole new marketplace, there can also be many external threats as well. A booming economy that may at first seem ripe for market entry could change at any time, and prove devastating to the Starbucks China operation. Furthermore, political and legal factors could change just as swiftly and cause many problems for Starbucks as the company has no influence over these external factors. Similarly, social factors can always pose a threat as well. With a business focused on mainly the Chinese youth, any trend that in some way denounces or disqualifies Starbucks as a meaningful experience to the youth would cause a dramatic breakdown in the Starbucks marketing mix. A further analysis of Starbucks’ entry into the Chinese marketplace can be accomplished by investigating the questions at the end of the case study. 1. Many of the same environmental factors, such as cultural factors, that operate in the domestic market also exist internationally. Discuss the key cultural factors Starbucks had to consider as it expanded into China. Several cultural factors impacted Starbucks entry into the Chinese market. One such factor was the cultural reliance on mostly â€Å"tea† as a drink of choice among the Chinese. Starbucks knew that entering the market with a strategy of simply trying to sell various facets of coffee would be a challenge if not carefully executed in a way that would inspire and empower the consumers to actually stimulate the desire for coffee. A second cultural factor that enabled Starbucks to overcome the obstacle of the tea vs. coffee concern is that the Chinese people do not have much space in their homes etc. for gathering with their interest groups. Starbucks quickly determined that providing a need (such as space to â€Å"hang out†) would be an excellent way to offer its products in an environment that would be  providing a solution to the problem of having limited spaces to just be with friends. (Lamb, p.139) 2. Discuss the key political and legal factors Starbucks had to consid er in the Chinese marketplace. What are the risks of entering a country with these factors? What changes have occurred in China’s political and legal structure to the advantage of foreign companies? China is a communist country, and politically this type of government can be volatile. Any changes to the government and/or its officials could have fast and devastating effects on businesses operating in China. (Lamb, p.140) Legislation could be created overnight that may involve the removal of foreign businesses or simply make it impossible for them to compete in the Chinese market by placing restrictions on their allowable business practices. Although there are risks associated with entering a foreign market with uncontrollable political and legal factors, China has proven to have a political and legal structure that has been very conducive to foreign companies. Beijing entered the World Trade Organization in 2001, and since has provided economic stability as well as political stability to businesses. (Lamb, p.140) Legally, China has mandated that each family is allowed one child. This mandate has resulted in a shift of the normal â€Å"collective† view of communist consumers to a more â€Å"individualistic† view for young consumers, creating a very ripe environment for businesses that provide modernistic, Western-individualism style products and marketing mixes. 3. What demographic factors were important for Starbucks to understand in China? What were the demographics they decided to target? In order to enter the Chinese market, Starbucks had to consider demographic factors such as age and population in order to be successful. According to Lamb Starbucks initially focused on the economically upwardly mobile population, including 20-40 year olds. (Lamb, p.139) Finding much success there, Starbucks wanted to grow that success over time, and is strategically focused on the youth of the Chinese population since they have the economic backing of their families to support disposable needs, such as pricy cappuccinos. 4. What was the initial global-market strategy Starbucks employed to enter China? Discuss the advantages and disadvantages to this early strategy. How has their strategy changed since then and why? According to Lamb the initial global-market strategy Starbucks entered China with involved partnering with other businesses as a joint venture, along with authorizing local developers to use their brand. (Lamb, p.140) This strategy had an advantage of entering the market in a gradual way, and gaining the trust of the Chinese while simultaneously avoiding the added risk of entering the market on its own. The disadvantage of this style of market entry is seen in the profit margin for Starbucks. Joint ventures and partnerships do not share equally in profits (and Starbucks would need to work hard to find a management position in such ventures to make sure it could hold onto its profit margin as sales increased). Since then, Starbucks has bought out its partners and now individually owns its own stores. While this strategy is drastically different from its market-entry strategy, the company is now much more confident in how to do business effectively in China. Furthermore, the fact that Beijing entered the World Trade Organization has had a securing and positive economic and legal affect on foreign companies doing business alone in the Chinese marketplace. In lieu of the facts provided in the case study, it is possible to recommend additional ways in which Starbucks can continue to successfully operate in China. One such recommendation is for Starbucks to keep a very close watch on social media trends among the Chinese youth. Knowing that the Asian community is very embracing of social media, it is imperative that Starbucks maintain its reputation as â€Å"modern† and â€Å"forward-moving† by participating in the social media trends of the youth. A second recommendation for Starbucks is to provide social benefits to the communities in which it operates. Providing benefits to surrounding communities can help to establish a successful business relationship with local government officials as well as encouraging the trust of the local people. Furthermore, these philanthropic efforts can have an impact on the consumers of Starbucks products domestically as well. Domestic patrons can find value in these efforts of â€Å"doing good† for global communities and become encouraged to support the company with more purchases. In conclusion, the review of the Starbucks case study has been both  informative and interesting as I am a consumer of Starbucks myself. The knowledge gained here has certainly changed my thoughts from salivating for a simple caramel macchiato when I pass the Starbucks logo, to wondering where and how they do business elsewhere. References Lamb, C.W., Hair, J.F., Jr., McDaniel, C. (2011). Marketing (11th ed.). Mason, OH: South-Western.

ATV essay essays

ATV essay essays The all terrain vehicle has been around for many decades. It has many different models that are used by a variety of people, these types are utility, sport, and youth. The utility four wheeler was the first ever made although it wasnt a four wheeler at all it was actually a three wheeler. The first atv ever made was used as a farm vehicle for hauling and moving other equipment. The three wheeler became popular but didnt last long because of its tendency to flip easily. The best way to fix the problem was to add another wheel, making the four wheeler the first ever made; it was also used for farming; it was in the market for equipment and was never meant to be sold as anything but for hauling and towing. The utility four wheeler started out as a small engine, small framed and very uncomfortable for the rider. As years past the utility four wheeler became as well known on the farm as a tractor. It moved from a small 90 cc engine to the now popular 650 cc engine. It also evolved from the stiff single shock suspension to the all around independent wishbone suspension. The utility atv has helped the farmer and working man make the tasks outdoors much easier and will continue to become The sport atv has been around for about a decade and a half. As most inventions happen, they start out being used for what they were made for, then the people that say, Well what if?, get a hold of them and modify them so it can do something else. The sport four wheeler wasnt made factory in the beginning because that wasnt what the four wheeler was made for. If you wanted to race your atv in the early 80s you had to make it race worthy yourself. After the sport caught on however the manufactures decided to make some money and build a four wheeler that didnt have to ...

Adolf Hitler and Japanese Canadians War

Discuss the role that Italy played in World War II. How did the nation become involved in the conflict? How did its participation affect the direction of the war and Germany’s fortunes? 3. Discuss the issues surrounding the United States’ decision to use atomic bombs against Japan. What motives were behind this action, and what arguments have been made against it? 4. Explain how the situation in Europe immediately following the fall of Germany led directly to the Cold War. In your opinion, should the Western Allies have acted to oppose Soviet domination of Eastern Europe? 5. Consider the role of technology during World War II. Did it fundamentally affect the outcome of the war? If so, how? If not, why not? 6. Compare the roles of Germany and Japan during World War II. Generally speaking, were their aggressions fundamentally similar or fundamentally different? . Explain Germany’s mistakes in Russia and the ways in which they affected the outcome of the war. 8. Why did the British government give in to German demands regarding Czechoslovakia in 1938, but took a relatively firmer stand over Poland in 1939? 9. Compare Soviet and British policies toward Poland between 1943 and 1945, focusing on both aims and outcomes. 10. Did the nature of German rearmament b etween 1935 and 1939 support the view that Hitler was planning for a Blitzkrieg war? 11. Asses and explain whether the internment of Japanese Canadians justified during World War Two? 2. Discuss the major differences between how the allies treated Germany after World War Two with World War One and how it may have been better. 13. Compare the strategic significance of the Battle of Stalingrad and the Battle of Britain. 14. Discuss Blittzkrieg and the importance of this tactic during World War Two. 15. Assess and explain the role of women during WWII and compare them to WWI. 16. The Second World War had consequences for European society and the world at large that were every bit as profound as the changes wrought by World War I. Assess these consequences as they became evident in 1945 as the war ended as well as for the years following from the standpoint of physical losses (casualties, refugees, infrastructure, etc. ) as well as the political and territorial settlements in Europe and the world at large. 17. To what extent were the German’s people responsible for Hitler/ Holocaust. 18. Compare WWI to WWII, identifying similarities in the causes, development, and outcomes of the wars. Other topics to consider Appeasement (WLM King) Isolationism The Treaty of Versailles The League of Nations (failure of) Dieppe D-Day (Juno Beach) Liberation of Holland Dunkirk (evacuation of) Battle of Britain Battle of the Atlantic Role of Technology / Canadian war production Anti-Semitism in Canada Internment of Japanese Canadians War on the homefront – War production / Changing role of women TOPIC LIST Blitzkreig The Battle of the Atlantic Women’s Royal Canadian Naval Service (Wrens) Lebensraum The Brtsh Commonwealth Air Training Plan Canadian Women’s Auxiliary Airforce Occupation of the Rhineland Camp X The Munich Pact Cdn Women’s Army Corps D-Day The Nazi-Soviet Non Aggression Pact The Battle for Normandy Canadian War Brides Dunkirk Treaty of Versailles The Royal Cdn Air Force Wm. L. Mackenzie King War on the Homefront War Propaganda The Home Front General Guy Simonds Canada and the Italian Campaign Conscription The Scheldt Estuary The Internment of Japanese Canadians Liberation of the Netherlands Canada and Hong Kong Juno Beach The Battle of the Atlantic VE Day Dieppe Verrieres Ridge Adolf Hitler and Japanese Canadians War Discuss the role that Italy played in World War II. How did the nation become involved in the conflict? How did its participation affect the direction of the war and Germany’s fortunes? 3. Discuss the issues surrounding the United States’ decision to use atomic bombs against Japan. What motives were behind this action, and what arguments have been made against it? 4. Explain how the situation in Europe immediately following the fall of Germany led directly to the Cold War. In your opinion, should the Western Allies have acted to oppose Soviet domination of Eastern Europe? 5. Consider the role of technology during World War II. Did it fundamentally affect the outcome of the war? If so, how? If not, why not? 6. Compare the roles of Germany and Japan during World War II. Generally speaking, were their aggressions fundamentally similar or fundamentally different? . Explain Germany’s mistakes in Russia and the ways in which they affected the outcome of the war. 8. Why did the British government give in to German demands regarding Czechoslovakia in 1938, but took a relatively firmer stand over Poland in 1939? 9. Compare Soviet and British policies toward Poland between 1943 and 1945, focusing on both aims and outcomes. 10. Did the nature of German rearmament b etween 1935 and 1939 support the view that Hitler was planning for a Blitzkrieg war? 11. Asses and explain whether the internment of Japanese Canadians justified during World War Two? 2. Discuss the major differences between how the allies treated Germany after World War Two with World War One and how it may have been better. 13. Compare the strategic significance of the Battle of Stalingrad and the Battle of Britain. 14. Discuss Blittzkrieg and the importance of this tactic during World War Two. 15. Assess and explain the role of women during WWII and compare them to WWI. 16. The Second World War had consequences for European society and the world at large that were every bit as profound as the changes wrought by World War I. Assess these consequences as they became evident in 1945 as the war ended as well as for the years following from the standpoint of physical losses (casualties, refugees, infrastructure, etc. ) as well as the political and territorial settlements in Europe and the world at large. 17. To what extent were the German’s people responsible for Hitler/ Holocaust. 18. Compare WWI to WWII, identifying similarities in the causes, development, and outcomes of the wars. Other topics to consider Appeasement (WLM King) Isolationism The Treaty of Versailles The League of Nations (failure of) Dieppe D-Day (Juno Beach) Liberation of Holland Dunkirk (evacuation of) Battle of Britain Battle of the Atlantic Role of Technology / Canadian war production Anti-Semitism in Canada Internment of Japanese Canadians War on the homefront – War production / Changing role of women TOPIC LIST Blitzkreig The Battle of the Atlantic Women’s Royal Canadian Naval Service (Wrens) Lebensraum The Brtsh Commonwealth Air Training Plan Canadian Women’s Auxiliary Airforce Occupation of the Rhineland Camp X The Munich Pact Cdn Women’s Army Corps D-Day The Nazi-Soviet Non Aggression Pact The Battle for Normandy Canadian War Brides Dunkirk Treaty of Versailles The Royal Cdn Air Force Wm. L. Mackenzie King War on the Homefront War Propaganda The Home Front General Guy Simonds Canada and the Italian Campaign Conscription The Scheldt Estuary The Internment of Japanese Canadians Liberation of the Netherlands Canada and Hong Kong Juno Beach The Battle of the Atlantic VE Day Dieppe Verrieres Ridge

Is Britain taking the right approach to Prostitution Essay

Is Britain taking the right approach to Prostitution - Essay Example Prostitution is one of the last bulwarks of this way of thinking. In the course of this essay, prostitution in the UK will be examined and it will be argued that it should be legalized. Prostitution in the UK is a dangerous business. Female prostitutes are more likely to be assaulted and murdered and to have shorter lives (Castillo, 126). Prostitutes are often the victims of serial killers as we can see from the Ipswich murders in recent years. We need to find a way to regulate in order to keep sex workers safe. The truth is that under the current law, sex workers are at risk. They must conduct their business under cover of night and have little time to communicate with potential johns due to law prohibiting communication. As such, they are placed at higher risk. Indeed, the very fact that prostitution is not in itself illegal, is an indication of how society thinks it should be dealt with by police. Instead, the various ancillary crimes such as living off the avails of prostitution and communicating for the purposes of prostitution are illegal. This is hypocritical and endangers the lives of sex workers. For this reason, these laws should be struck down. They threaten the human rights of UK sex workers. It is easy to imagine scenarios where the current laws have been responsible for higher crime rates (Phoenix, 52). Take for instance an example of a lonely man who yearns for sexual interaction or intercourse and cannot find a woman who is easily willing to fulfil his sexual needs. It is possible his behaviour may lead him to rape or other illegal behaviour. This need not be the case if prostitution is effectively legalized. Or suppose a married man has a high sex drive then his wife and sometimes his wife is not always available to meet his sexual desires, his behaviour may lead him to abuse her. This too can be avoided if there is a legal outlet. Once prostitution is regulated, sex workers will have more health checks and will be safer. We should follow the l ead of our European neighbours and regulate prostitution (and take the tax revenue from it) rather than continue to criminalize it and force it into the darkest corners of society, where sex workers are most at risk. The very idea that prostitution is effectively illegal stands in the face of political freedom. The truth, in my opinion, is that the freest society is the best one. The government creates lots of laws in order to prevent people from making the most of their lives. Of course, some laws are necessary, such as murder is wrong, but many other laws serve no purpose: in the end they just create a â€Å"nanny state.† Libertarianism stands against needless laws and in favour of freedom. The government should play only the smallest role in our lives and should not tell us who we can and cannot sleep with. Libertarianism is a political philosophy that idealizes personal freedom and non-judgement (Nozick 32). More than ever before, people in the UK living in a Nanny State. A Nanny State is one that uses excessive state controls, for example, lots of unnecessary laws, to restrict its citizens’ freedom. It believes that it knows best and that citizens should follow its morality. Of course, there is a general feeling that certain things are wrong and should be discouraged or criminalized, but for proponents of the Nanny State, the government should seize control of actions and issues where there is no consensus and unilaterally impose its view of morality on these issues. We