Tuesday, August 25, 2020

Realistic representation of psychological concepts in the film A Essay

Reasonable portrayal of mental ideas in the film A Beautiful Mind - Essay Example The account of the film is dedicated to what can be assessed as a courageous biography of a remarkable mathematician John Forbes Nash, frequented by the two his virtuoso and signs of craziness so conspicuously coinciding in him. On this foundation, a cautious watcher can perceive in the film fine components trademark to a few mental ideas and hypotheses, for example, for example a delineation on the solid case of Nash of different indications identified with a mental state of schizophrenia, the inclusion of the movies hero into social connections arrange that frequently challenges his psychological issue, and the mental procedures related with what is known as intellectual discord. The film A Beautiful Mind opens when John Forbes Nash (Russell Crowe) is battling to concoct some unique idea at Princeton. We can promptly observe the indication of virtuoso in him, and yet it is unmistakably obvious that Nash is regularly unusual, uncomfortable as far as social communication, and horrendously serious. Actually, despite the fact that John has benevolent associations with a few understudies, his solitary loyal companion is his flat mate Charles. After some time, the mathematician approaches elaboration of a unique, spearheading and promising way to deal with game hypothesis, and his effective logical future appears justified. John gets a situation at MIT, and gets included into a secretive administrative program focused on code-breaking research. During his such a cryptic occupation, Nash is managing William Parcher, a top-level administrative operator who endeavors to utilize Nashs gifts for national security errands. At MIT Nash gets to know Alicia (Jennifer Connel ly), a stunning and noteworthy understudy. They wed in the end, however their upbeat life gets under the danger when John is determined to have schizophrenia and is evidently falling into madness. In a mental medical clinic Nash experiences treatment through electroshock to dispose of his hallucinations, however he by the by discovers it close to difficult to work or be an appropriate spouse. In addition, when he stops to take his drug, the daydreams return. Yet, in spite of every one of that, his significant other Alicia offers an incredible help to him as he wouldn't like to be again hospitalized, and with time John figures out how to control his dreams. At long last, when John Nash is allowed a Nobel Prize in financial matters he can be said to have picked up the best triumph of his life, yet the one which he could scarcely accomplish without the affection and help of Alicia. Mental idea #1 Maybe the most shocking showcase that the film gives is that of a weakening state of an individual experiencing schizophrenia, a mental term that is utilized to depict a psychological issue with different side effects that in blend lead to changes in the truth discernment and to subsequent weaknesses in like manner social elements of an influenced individual. The very word

Saturday, August 22, 2020

Miss Havisham first impression Essay Example

Miss Havisham initial introduction Essay Example Miss Havisham initial introduction Paper Miss Havisham initial introduction Paper Paper Topic: Writing One of the primary characters of Charles Dickens epic Great Expectations is Miss Havisham. Over the span of the novel, we find parcels about her and her life, particularly in the initial segment of section 8 in the story. The primary concern we find about Miss Havisham, is that 20 years prior she was tragically abandoned at the change, and this has enormously influenced her from that point forward. In this paper, I will examine and clarify the manners by which Dickens cunning shapes the perusers assessment of Miss Havisham, and the perspectives we have on her along these lines. The principle way I accept that Dickens shapes the perusers early introduction of Miss Havisham, is by expounding on her portrayal through the eyes of Pip. Pip is the principle character in the novel, and we gain from prior that he is from an incredibly poor foundation, and as he is credulous and from an age where he is handily impacted by what is around him, particularly on account of his fantasy to be a noble man. Being from such a poor family, as Pip goes into Miss Havishams house everything shows up considerably increasingly rich and costly that is truly is, as he has never observed articles this way. At the point when Pip clarifies the room Miss Havisham lives in, we get the feeling that Miss Havisham has become a recluse since she was left by her significant other to be. She seems to have definitely no life as nothing seems to have changed in the room since that day, for instance, she is as yet wearing her white wedding dress, which has gone to a spoiled yellow because of the timeframe she has been wearing it. Along these lines, we get the impression she has turned insane, as she has not put on something else for a long time. We can tell from the manner in which Pip acts towards Miss Havisham, and her received girl Estella, that Pip accepts the way he and Miss Havisham get along could bring about his family getting a total of cash from Miss Havisham, and this is critical to his sister, who is his watchman. There is verification of this in the novel when Miss Havisham inquires as to whether he fears her, and as opposed to stating indeed, he answers that I fear not satisfying you. In any case, we get the feeling that later on he becomes apprehensive instead of anxious, as he begins to understand that there is something not exactly directly about her and the manner in which she converses with him. We can tell he feels frightened from the manner in which Pip cooperates with her and the manner in which he reacts to her inquiries, with heaps of delays, and utilizing broken discourse, as thought he is panicked to state an inappropriate thing. The manner in which Pip portrays the various articles in the room gives us an impression of what Miss Havishams life resembles. The room is loaded up with rich and costly articles, for example, dressing tables and mirrors lit with candles. He discusses these items as if he has never known about or even observed anything like them previously. He discusses a hung table with an overlaid mirror, giving the impression he thinks about these thing as rich and exceptional, but Miss Havisham seems to take little mind of the things in the room. He portrays what she is wearing as rich materials glossy silks, trim, and silks the entirety of white. This gives us the impression she is fabulous and clean looking, though we later become familiar with her white garments have diverted yellow from not being washed in 20 years, as Pip says I discover that everything in my view should be white, and was white quite a while in the past. The room is loaded up with soil and everything encompassing her is old and not, at this point exquisite and rich looking as Pip originally made out. We at that point get the impression Miss Havisham is unfortunate, unfed and unclean, from Pips portrayal of what she looks like. We comprehend that she is shriveled like her dress, this utilization of comparison shows that she has contracted to skin and bone, and has brilliant, anyway indented eyes. The creator at that point analyzes Miss Havisham to an awful waxwork, and surprisingly more dreadful a skeleton. Dickens at that point proceeds to portray Pips dread by expressing that I ought to have shouted out, on the off chance that I could. There is a solid complexity in the novel among white and yellow, it is frequently referenced that everything encompassing Miss Havisham used to be white and new, yet is filthy and yellow. This gives off an impression of being contrasting hues with Miss Havishams life, where she used to be youthful and young before she was abandoned, however has now developed old and sick looking, The way that Dickens has decided to portray Miss Havishams environmental factors demonstrate to us that it is so imperative to Dickens that we can comprehend Miss Havishams pain and despondency. Dickens utilizes redundancy all through the novel to show the reiteration in Miss Havishams life and how everything is consistently the equivalent. Taking everything into account, I accept that seeing as marriage was so critical to ladies in the mid 1900s because of the reality they felt as if they required a man in their lives for monetary and passionate security, this is the explanation Miss Havisham is this way and Pip, being youthful and credulous didn't at all comprehend why she had transformed so insane and into a recluse, which is the explanation Dickens decided to depict Miss Havisham through Pips eyes. Through and through, I accept the way that Dickens has composed the novel gives us a view on the rich (Miss Havisham) and poor people (Pip) as he sees them. Cash can turn you frantic, and is unquestionably not all that matters.

Sunday, July 26, 2020

I Do Not Like Faxes, Sam I Am! - UGA Undergraduate Admissions

I Do Not Like Faxes, Sam I Am! - UGA Undergraduate Admissions I Do Not Like Faxes, Sam I Am! “Do you like green eggs and ham?” “I do not like them, Sam-I-am. I do not like green eggs and ham!” Dr. Seuss, Green Eggs and Ham I feel the same way about faxes. I would not like them here or there, I would not like them ANYWHERE! We see a large number of faxes, especially around deadline time. In general, if you have ever looked at a fair number of faxes, you understand that most come out looking distorted, with smudges, readability problems, etc. Then try scanning them, and you really have problems reading the document. So our office has a policy that for any official document (HS transcripts, college transcripts, recommendation letters, etc), we will not take faxes! There is a reason that the shredding bin is so close to the fax machine. It is so I only have to take two steps before I shred most of the items. The reason we do this is to make sure we are able to look at you in the best light possible. If we had to guess if a grade was an 88 or a 68, and cannot read it clearly due to the fax, you do not want us guessing! In the same way, you do not want us to think a teacher loathes you as a student, when they really are trying to say they loved you as a student! In addition, it is a security measure. For example, I once received a faxed letter of good standing from a college. Upon closer review, I noticed that the fax from where it was sent was a local Subway Sandwich shop. Unless the college had moved their registrars office to add food service to their job, we were dealing with a bogus document. So go out and shout it to anyone you see, from your teachers, your counselors, your friends, even the guy who is at the checkout counter at Target. UGA does not want faxes! UGA will shred faxes! Send documents online or through the mail! Thank you for your help. I will finish up with one last Dr. Seuss quote; You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself Any direction you choose. You’re on your own. And you know what you know. And YOU are the guy who’ll decide where to go. Dr. Seuss, Oh the Places Youll Go! Go Dawgs!

Friday, May 22, 2020

Tendonitis of the Wrist Treatment and Prevention

So, you have been diagnosed with tendonitis of the wrist, or fear you might develop it, and it is time to look at treatments. Preventative methods for tendonitis of the wrist are part of a comprehensive treatment program and should be exercised during and after recovery. Tendonitis can be caused by repetitive or acute trauma or a combination of the two. Treatment for tendonitis is the same whether it developed as a repetitive stress injury or not. Finding the Cause The first step in treating/preventing tendonitis of the wrist is understanding what caused it. Many general causes of repetitive stress injuries can be contributing factors for tendonitis of the wrist. Performing repetitive finger and wrist motions or using vibrating equipment also heightens your risk of developing tendonitis in that area. Using a Visual Analog Pain Scale will help pinpoint the major and minor causes. Stopping the Stress The next step in your treatment/prevention of tendonitis of the wrist is to stop performing those tasks or correct your body mechanics when you do. If it is working at a computer set up an ergonomically sound computer workstation. If it is another tool or setup follow sound ergonomic principles ensuring you keep a natural wrist position when working and take frequent breaks. If the vibration is a factor use a vibration absorbing pad or glove or change the grip on the tool to one that better fits your hand. Maintain a Healthy Wrist The next step in treating/preventing tendonitis of the wrist is to use proper body mechanics in all wrist related activities. These tips to prevent wrist stress injuries are a good basic guide to maintaining a healthy wrist. Playing with different muscles than those you work with can also provide relief to an ailing wrist. You also need to stay healthy and fit. Maintain a healthy weight and good cardiovascular health. Strong bodies are more resilient against the stressors that cause these conditions. Home Treatment Home treatment options for tendonitis include: Icing the wrist to reduce inflammation and increase blood flowUsing over the counter, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to decrease the swelling and manage pain (Warning: only use pain medication at times of rest to reduce the chance of further injury)Exercise to strengthen the injured area once symptoms have been reduced Professional Treatment When preventative and home treatment measures are not enough your healthcare professional may recommend these treatments. Only follow these treatments when instructed to by a healthcare professional. Treatments include: Icing the wrist to reduce inflammation and increase blood flowWearing wrist splints to immobilize the wrist and reduce repetitive traumaUsing non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to decrease the swelling and manage painUltrasound therapy to reduce swelling and fluid build-upCortisone injection to treat the inflammationPhysical therapy and exercise to strengthen the injured areaSurgery Surgery is the last option for treatment of tendonitis in the wrist. Removal of soft tissue around the problem area can give the tendon more room to move without irritation. Surgery is also a viable option if an anatomical feature is causing the problem. If the tendon does not have a smooth spot to move over then surgery can smooth it out or realign the tendon.

Friday, May 8, 2020

Case Study Inter Group Problem - 960 Words

Statement of Problem The inter-group problem is that the client (owner of the company) and his wife (sales manager) are having inter-marital problems. This is carrying over into the job. The husband around the job is known as the â€Å"yes man,† and the wife is known as the â€Å"boss† and other harsh words, which was found out during the interviews with the employees. The hope of the client is to get the sales manager to simply say â€Å"yes† to a major deal that will provide the company a competitive advantage in the market place. However, the sales manager feels they should hold off and play â€Å"hard ball† another month. Description of Techniques The consultant first has to come and understand the needs of the client as it pertains to the major deal. Next, if at all possible in this situation maybe the consultant can act as a mediator, or negotiator to assists in the dispute and find a common ground for both parties involved. Here the Thomas Kilmann (TKI) model may be useful. The TKI has been the leader in conflict resolution for numerous decades and more than 7,000,000 copies has been published since 1974 (Trippe Baumoel 2015). The TKI is designed to measure a person s behavior in conflict situations. Conflict situations can be seen when one person is being assertive and the other person is being cooperative and both behaviors are to the persons’ detriment. The sales manager is not being cooperative; however, it is yet unsure how assertive the client is being when trying to get hisShow MoreRelatedGenetic Disorders: Beta Thalassemia1398 Words   |  6 Pagesthe orofacial manifestations of this disease. Therefore, the aim of this study is to examine the orofacial characteristics of ÃŽ ² –thalassemia major patients among the UAE population and to investigate whether these characteristics are significant enough to be used for the diagnosis of ÃŽ ²-thalassemia Major. Materials and Methods In this cross-sectional study, a total of 55 individuals of UAE nationality, within the age group 15-22 were included. 19 of these individuals are affected by B-thalassemiaRead MoreDnp Project Proposal Development Project Evaluation1153 Words   |  5 Pagesblue within ten weeks? 1. Sample The interest population for the study comprises all graduate nurses working in a large health facility in the city. In the clinical environment, nurses ensure continuity of patient care and are involved in various emergency responses. Therefore, it is important that nurses have adequate primary emergency response skills to enhance their clinical competence in managing the needs of patients. This study will assess whether the use of high-fidelity simulators comparedRead MoreInter Ethnic Conflict And Ethnic Conflicts1477 Words   |  6 PagesTopic Underlying Causes of Inter-Ethnic Conflict in Samburu County, Kenya Background Inter-ethnic conflict is one of the major problems facing most Kenya community and mostly the nomadic communities. Inter-ethnic conflicts involving pastoralists have become widespread and increasingly severe in the northern region of Kenya. Conflict has often resulted in severe disruption of social and economic development. It has also constrained efforts to reduce or end poverty and sustain basic human rights.Read MoreEssay On Ultrasound1153 Words   |  5 PagesIn this study, we focused on searching for significant association between individual ultrasound features and specific complaints. Really, we believed that such association, if confirmed, will be helpful for better understanding of the natural disease course and better patient counselling regarding the predicted symptoms in the light of detected findings. While a considerable sector of cases may be asymptomatic, the majority of cases with adenomyosis complain of a variety of symptoms. These symptomsRead MoreQuantitative Study On Quantitative Research Study1054 Words   |  5 PagesQuantitative Study The article is a quantitative research study. There were three types of data collected in this study. Data was collected through structured interviews, inter-rater and validity data, statistical analysis, and descriptive data. Interviews took place at the Department of Forensic Psychiatry in Stockholm. A trained research assistant carried out the interview after receiving preparatory training that consisted of 12 test interviews, under the guidance of the first author. These interviewsRead MoreInter Professional Communication And Health Care903 Words   |  4 PagesInter-professional communication is inherent to the functioning of the multifaceted enterprise of medicine and health care. A patient within the modern health care system will often encounter multiple health care practitioners or varying levels of occupational training or education whether it’s a nurse, technician, employee, or doctor and so forth (O’Daniel H. Rosenstein, 2008, Chapter 33). Inter-profession al communication within the health care industry is the collaboration of this group (team)Read MoreResearch Methodology1700 Words   |  7 Pagesconsisting of enunciating the problem, formulating a hypothesis , collecting the facts or data , analyzing the facts and reaching the certain conclusions either in the form of solutions toward the concerned problems or in certain generalizations for some theoretical formulations It is actually a voyage of discovery Research Purposes To gain familiarity with a phenomenon or to achieve new insights into the object-( termed a exploratory or formulative research studies) To portray accuratelyRead MoreCollaborative Working1594 Words   |  7 Pagesconcept â€Å"Collaborative Working.† This concept has many terminological variations, one of the more frequently used is â€Å"Inter-professional working.† Hornby and Atkins (2000) state that collaborative working is â€Å"a relationship between two or more people, groups or organisations, working together to define and achieve a common purpose.† Barrett et al (2005) declares that inter-professional working is â€Å"the process whereby members of different professions and/or agencies work together to provide integratedRead MoreAlliance Supermarkets Essay766 Words   |  4 Pageson-hand quantities, the firm still experiences several problems with regards to effective and efficient inventory management. As stated in the case study, â€Å"sudden changes in demand for a particular item can catch the company by surprise as it bases inventory replenishment on historical demand patterns. Further, demand patterns and preferences may vary from one store to another depending on the customers served by each, but the inventory system groups all demand information together and treats each storeRead MoreNursing Care Models Paper. There Ar e Varieties Of Care1008 Words   |  5 Pagesdirectly involved and other nurses in the lower cadre work closely with the case management, rehab, and the dietary department. As stated in our text book, â€Å"The interdisciplinary or inter-professional practice model is emphasized in the IOM reports on quality improvement by identifying the importance of all health professions meeting the interdisciplinary or inter-professional competency emphasizing the need to work in inter professional teams â€Å"to cooperate, collaborate, communicate, and integrate

Wednesday, May 6, 2020

Johnson Johnson Global Business Environment Free Essays

string(31) " drugs to endorse and provide\." Johnson Johnson: Successfully Strategizing for the Changing Global Business Environment I. Introduction Johnson Johnson is the world’s largest healthcare company. Founded in the United States in 1886, the company has been profitable for 75 straight years and currently operates 250 subsidiary companies in 57 countries. We will write a custom essay sample on Johnson Johnson Global Business Environment or any similar topic only for you Order Now Its products fall into three segments: pharmaceuticals, with 39% of total sales; medical devices and diagnostics, with 36%; and consumer products, with 25%. Additionally, the company employs 119,200 people worldwide and sells its products in 175 countries. A truly global corporation, Johnson Johnson has securely positioned itself to overcome the challenges its ever-changing business environment poses, as well as take advantage of the opportunities presented. With a focus primarily on Johnson Johnson’s pharmaceutical segment, this paper seeks to explore the complex multinational environment within which the company operates as well as the opportunities and threats that the environment poses. Next, the paper will analyze Johnson Johnson’s current positioning, describing its value-chain and competitive positioning. The paper will close by evaluating how Johnson Johnson both can seize these opportunities to realize the goals of the company. II. Analyzing the Environment In industries as competitive as pharmaceutical, medical devices and consumer goods, analyzing the environment is vital for being able to make sound strategic decisions. Since Johnson Johnson strives to anticipate the external factors that affect its international business environment, as well as adapt to those changes, it is important that it understands the environment in which it is operating. The two sets of external forces that face the company are competitive and contextual. A. Competitive Environments – Five Forces Model Michael Porter’s five forces model provides a way of analyzing Johnson Johnson’s competitive environment. Due to a lack of available information about the bargaining power of suppliers as it applies to Johnson Johnson, this paper will address the four other forces: the threat of new entrants, the threat of substitutes, the bargaining power of customers, and the rivalry among industry competitors. 1. The Threat of New Entrants – High Barriers to Entry The threat of new entrants is not of particular concern to Johnson Johnson. Barriers to entry, especially in the industries of pharmaceuticals and medical devices, are extremely high if not unsurpassable. The world’s top pharmaceutical companies have extensive manufacturing capabilities, distribution systems, and economies of scale that have been built up over decades and would be virtually impossible for a new entrant to replicate. These top firms also have patents that protect their current products, as well as established research pipelines that ensure the continual development of new products. Also, they have strong brand names and large marketing budgets with which to defend them. Finally, the exceptionally high capital requirements for founding a pharmaceutical company and the sharp retaliation that new entrants could expect from the established competitors render the threat of new entrants very low. The medical device industry has similarly high barriers to entry. While entering the consumer goods market is easier, relatively, the vast number of competitors makes this industry very competitive, thus a strong brand name is vital for standing out. As the world’s most respected company according to Barron Magazine, new entrants to the consumer goods market do not pose a threat to Johnson Johnson. 2. The Threat of Substitutes – The Rise of Generics The threat of substitutes is much more problematic than that of new entrants, especially in the pharmaceutical segment. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requires that generic drugs be bioequivalent to their brand name counterparts, making them serious substitutes. Once a patent expires, generic manufacturers are quick to reverse-engineer the formerly proprietary drugs and sell generic versions at a fraction of the cost. Virtually all the top pharmaceutical companies, Johnson Johnson included, face an influx of upcoming patent expirations. The impending loss of sales when generic versions of the drugs inevitably become available is a serious threat to the profitability of many players in the industry. For example, Risperdal, a drug for schizophrenia made by a subsidiary of Johnson Johnson’s called Janssen-Cilag, was a significant source of profits, with sales that totaled $3. 5 billion in 2005 and surged 21% percent in the first quarter of 2006, to $1. 2 billion. However, when the patent for Risperdal expired in December of 2007 and became available in generic form in October of 2008, the company’s revenue from pharmaceutical sales stagnated. In fact, in July of 2007, Johnson Johnson announced plans to eliminate up to 4,800 jobs, citing patent expirations as the main motivation to trim the workforce and thus save money. If the company does not prepare for the difficult transition between enjoying market exclusivity and losing that security as those patents expire, it will face more negative consequences. 3. The Bargaining Power of Buyers – Influence of Generics In the pharmaceutical industry, buyers include patients, medical doctors who prescribe drugs, pharmacists, hospital boards, insurance companies, and other health authorities. The bargaining power of patients goes hand in hand with the threat of substitutes. When drugs are patent-protected, pharmaceutical companies enjoy a monopoly where they can set prices to include high profit margins. Since there are few to no substitutes for their products during this time, customers have little choice but to pay these prices, especially if their lives depend on the drugs. However, once cheaper, generic versions of the drugs become available, buyers gain more power. Patients’ switching costs, an important element in determining the bargaining power of buyers, are fairly low, and price-sensitive buyers will likely switch to generic versions once available. Johnson Johnson’s main tool in combating this problem is its strong brand name. Many customers have more trust in brand name products and are willing to pay extra for this perceived security. The other groups within buyers of pharmaceutical products, while fragmented, have more power than patients. Within the American healthcare system, insurance companies and health maintenance companies (HMOs) have considerable bargaining power, as they decide which drugs to endorse and provide. You read "Johnson Johnson Global Business Environment" in category "Essay examples" Since they have an interest in lowering costs, they exert a strong downward pressure on drug prices, partly due to the threat of the availability of generics. European governments’ national healthcare systems have a similarly high level of power, if not higher due to strict price controls. Thus, pharmaceutical companies have a need to establish successful relationships with these groups and market towards them heavily. 4. The Degree of Rivalry – Fierce and Changing Competition Competition in the pharmaceutical industry is intense and growing in intensity. While the numerous competitors remain fairly fragmented, mergers and acquisitions have increased rivalry, as the top firms’ areas of expertise began to overlap. Rivalry is especially intense in saturated markets, such as the pain reliever segment, in which Johnson Johnson competes with its products Tylenol and Motrin. In growing markets, innovation is a key driver of competition since pharmaceutical companies depend on â€Å"blockbuster† drugs for a large proportion of their revenue. With only one out of every 10,000 discovered drugs approved to be sold, stakes are high to find the cash cow drugs that recuperate the increasingly high costs of development. Since â€Å"me too† drugs are not as profitable, innovation drives the race to be first-to-market. While the main competitors in the pharmaceutical industry are concentrated in the United States, Europe, and Japan, an increasing number of players – especially generic drug manufacturers – are appearing in developing countries, such as China and India. These companies are driving the shift in the industry toward becoming more commoditized. Also, numerous biotech upstarts, which are smaller, more agile, and have lower overhead costs than their conglomerate competitors, are growing in power and taking market share. As the dynamics of the industry change, the established companies will find themselves facing stiff competition from all sides. B. Contextual Environment – PEST Analysis A PEST (Political, Economic, Social, and Technological) analysis is a useful tool for understanding the larger environment within which the company operates. Companies can use this tool to identify a multitude of important aspects of their environments that may impact their businesses. . Political Environment – Changing Politics and Policies First, the politics on local, regional, national, or international scales can exert strong forces on businesses. Since Johnson Johnson operates worldwide, it must keep track of the political developments that may affect its business. For example, in the Czech Republic, health care is the sub ject of a major political debate. Changes in the healthcare system may affect to whom Johnson Johnson needs to market, and with whom it needs to negotiate if the company wants its products covered by the Czech healthcare system. Also, Johnson Johnson should be aware that the Czech Republic has a weak Parliament that will change in 2010’s elections. The company needs to anticipate which policies may shift under the new government. Finally, Johnson Johnson should be aware that the Czech Republic will serve as president of the Council of the European Union for the first six months of 2009. This is the best time for the Johnson Johnson branch located in the Czech Republic to lobby for any policy changes regarding the company’s interests and the business environment. 2. Economic Environment – The Crisis and the Euro The economic climate is also important for Johnson Johnson to analyze in order to predict when its business may face challenges, as well as when it can seize an opportunity for growth. Operating in the European Union and larger European community means that Johnson Johnson has felt the effects of the current economic crisis. Aware of the crisis, the company has been able to plan for its impact, and fortunately, the effects on Johnson Johnson have not been severe, as medical products remain necessities even in periods of economic downturn. In respect to the Johnson Johnson branch in the Czech Republic, the economic environment is one that quickly transitioned from a communist, planned economy to the free market. Though the Czech Republic has embraced free market principles since the fall of the Soviet Union, it is important that Johnson Johnson recognize that this change was relatively recent, and certain aspects of working in the Czech Republic may still be affected by this history. Finally, discussions surrounding the use of the euro and the benefits and disadvantages of a common currency are debates that Johnson Johnson should be aware of in this time period. While Slovakia adopted the euro in January 2009, the Czech Republic has kept its own currency. A switch to the euro in the Czech Republic could have a wide range of effects, some positive and some negative, and Johnson Johnson should understand the implications for its business if that change occurs in the Czech Republic. For example, adopting the euro would make transactions with other countries more convenient, and Johnson Johnson should be prepared for a possible increase in transactions or the speed in which transactions take place in order to take advantage of the opportunities this change could provide. It should also be ready for the numerous practical difficulties with tasks such as accounting that may occur with a change in currency. Keeping these economic scenarios in mind is the kind of forward-thinking that is crucial to Johnson Johnson’s success. 3. Social Environment – Aging Population and Public Health Problems There are two major social changes on the horizon that will both affect Johnson Johnson as well as provide tremendous opportunities. The first is the aging population. The gigantic baby boomer generation, consisting of those born between 1946 and 1964, has had a huge social and economic impact on the world since its birth. This trend will continue as the generation is beginning to enter old age. The influx of senior citizens will create huge demands throughout all realms of medical care. Johnson Johnson can expect to see increased sales across all three of its segments – pharmaceuticals, medical devices and diagnostics, and consumer goods – in the coming decades, and must plan production accordingly to be able to meet the needs of this huge generation as they enter their most medically-dependent years. Additionally, in order to cater to the aging population, Johnson Johnson is pioneering developments in preventative medicine as well as less invasive surgery techniques. Another major social change affecting Johnson Johnson is the phenomenon of surging rates of various health problems, especially in developed societies but spreading worldwide, from obesity and diabetes to cancer and mental disorders. Though highly problematic for society, companies in medicine-related industries such as Johnson Johnson are finding themselves with an increasing number of people to treat and cure. As a company that invests heavily in research and development, Johnson Johnson has the opportunity to lead the way in finding ways to address these serious public health issues. 4. Technological Environment – Promising New Fields As many pharmaceutical drug markets become saturated and the blockbuster drug strategy becomes obsolete due to the major changes occurring in the industry, innovation and breakthrough medical technologies are essential for finding blue oceans in which to compete. Predictive medicine, which entails predicting diseases based on genetics and preventing them, and personalized medicine, which involves managing a patient’s health based on his or her individual characteristics as opposed to following the more traditional â€Å"standards of care† model, are growing fields into which Johnson Johnson can expand. The company’s strong emphasis on research and development and its leadership in the medical devices and diagnostics segment put it in an excellent position to become a frontrunner in making new discoveries in these promising new technological fields. C. Determining Threats and Opportunities 1. Threats – The Uneducated Consumer and Mergers and Acquisitions One of the biggest threats facing a company like Johnson Johnson is the uneducated consumer. Especially within the consumer products and pharmaceuticals markets, with the increasing availability and lower cost of generic products, a key component of continued competitiveness is the discerning consumer who has preferences when it comes to treatment options. Johnson Johnson must continually work hard to make sure that people are aware of its products and the quality that it ensures through effective branding and promotional practices, as well as consumer education. Patent expirations are also a constant concern for Johnson Johnson as proprietary information is an integral part of sustained revenue streams. Mergers and acquisitions (M) present both potential opportunities and threats for Johnson Johnson. The company has pursued M that have served to expand the company’s resources and help penetrate new and diverse markets. For example, Johnson Johnson recently acquired Mentor Corporation in order to expand its operations in to the aesthetic and reconstructive medicine market. Also, an important new medical product called the Fibrin Pad was developed with the cooperation of three Johnson Johnson-owned subsidiaries. These are just a couple examples of how Johnson Johnson is able to both grow and innovate through M. On the other hand, M between other companies in the healthcare industry have the potential to upset Johnson Johnson’s value chain and competitive advantages. Johnson Johnson must pay close attention to the actions of rival companies in order to maintain its market-leader positions and barriers to entry against competitors. 2. Opportunities – Research, Synergies, Emerging Markets, and the Aging Population Johnson Johnson’s greatest opportunity is found in its heavy investment in research and development. This is especially important for its medical devices and diagnostics and pharmaceutical divisions. It is necessary for the company to be on the leading technological edge when it comes to medical devices to ensure that it can offer the most accurate and up-to-date machines available. As for the pharmaceutical sector, patent expiration and generic drugs demand constant innovation and addition to Johnson Johnson’s pipeline of products for sustained success. Strong pipelines in its pharmaceutical and medical devices sectors are a major source of confidence in the company’s long-term success. With eight new late-stage compounds in the pharmaceutical sector and the introduction of several new products to new markets in the medical devices sector, Johnson Johnson seems to be advancing its pipeline quite progressively. It also strives to be a consistently innovative company, and around 40% of its current products have been developed within the last 3-4 years. In 2008, Johnson Johnson spent $7. billion on research and development. The reinvestment of 11% of sales in to R, versus the industry average of 3%, demonstrates a source of competitive advantage for the company. Synergies between product branches are yet another source of opportunities for Johnson Johnson. Through the well-coordinated efforts of its pharmaceutical and consumer products divisions, Johnson Johnson was able to make the formerly prescribed drug Zyrtec available as an over-the-counter drug, which came to be the company’s most successful product launch in 2008. This is yet another example of how the company is able to pool its resources in order to find ways to fulfill both the needs of both its customers and stakeholders. Other opportunities for Johnson Johnson are present in emerging markets such as Brazil, Russia, India and China. Its products are currently available to only 25% of the world’s population. However, through its decentralized management approach and the adjustment of its products and strategies to match local needs and preferences, Johnson Johnson is reaching an ever-increasing consumer base. One method Johnson Johnson has been able to reach a broader consumer base through is the de-featuring of products, such simplified blood-glucose meters, which allows for access to lower-income customers and dampens the parasitic effect of cheap substitutes. One final opportunity exists in the demographic trend towards an ageing population. People are living longer, and because of this, new types of medical needs are arising all the time. Many types of medical treatments and surgeries are being developed and becoming more commonplace, such as hip replacements and plastic surgery. Patients want to be able to fix their ailments and expect a quick and uncomplicated recovery afterwards. It is up to Johnson Johnson to develop and provide the best possible equipment and supplies to do this and fulfill the company promise of customer success. III. Establishing European and Global Opportunities A. Expansion into New Markets – Developing Countries Despite the many challenges of working in both the European and global business environments, it is clear that these environments also allow Johnson Johnson to strengthen and continue to grow its business. With income and living standards on the rise in many European countries such as Turkey and the Czech Republic, where sales have already increased, and across the globe in developing countries like China and India, Johnson Johnson has many opportunities to sell its products in new markets or expand more in markets it has previously penetrated. In order to take advantage of the broadening market field, Johnson Johnson has begun to offer products that will appeal to people in less affluent nations. Its objective is clear: make products that are affordable for most of the world. To do this, Johnson Johnson has created de-featured versions of products that can be sold at a lower price, thus becoming accessible to more patients. B. Domestic Market Defense – Competition and Mistakes While Johnson Johnson expands to serve more customers in new markets, it must also maintain its secure position domestically. Though the consumer segment only accounts for only 25% of its total sales, the company realizes that keeping up its reputation and remaining a household name will help it as it moves into foreign markets. To put it simply, Johnson Johnson must remain synonymous with quality, safe products. Next, Johnson Johnson must be ready to compete with an even greater number of competitors, such as Pfizer, Merck, Novartis and Eli Lilly. Despite being the world’s largest healthcare company, it still faces competition and has run into problems when it has attained the market lead, grown too confident in its product, and then lost the lead. Because Johnson Johnson has twice lost its lead with one particular product, a heart stent, it now seems aware of this problem in its business strategy and therefore will be prepared for similar situations as it continue to penetrate new markets. IV. Analyzing Johnson Johnson’s Current Position A. Value Chain Analysis – Synergies, Cost Reductions, and Relationships A value chain analysis of Johnson Johnson reveals several key sources of value generation. Johnson Johnson consists of 250 companies that operate in 57 countries worldwide. The widespread nature of its operations and decentralized management practices allow for a high degree of local autonomy and adaptation. This makes Johnson Johnson very efficient in discovering and reacting to changing consumer demands across the globe. Also, the convergence of knowledge and information from branches across the globe gives the corporation a great advantage in the development of new products and technologies. Flexibility and detailed, location-specific knowledge coupled with heavy investments in technology, most notably IT, are the main production-based value drivers of the corporation. They allow for timely, adaptive responses to changing needs and the ability to achieve first leader power in emerging markets. Johnson Johnson is making progress in finding ways to reduce costs. Standardization initiatives in its pharmaceutical sector enabled the company to streamline operations and cut costs by $1. 6 billion in 2008. Cost savings are also created by means of acquisitions. For example, Johnson Johnson’s acquisition of Pfizer Consumer Healthcare is expected to generate up to $600 billion in â€Å"cost synergies† by unifying the efforts of the two companies. Johnson Johnson also emphasizes the importance of relationships with both its consumers and employees in its company credo. A talented and dependable workforce is important for innovation and efficiency in operations for any corporation. The company demonstrates its desire for employee welfare with healthcare services and carefully developed online resources. With an employee turnover ratio of less than 5%, Johnson Johnson demonstrates that it is capable of attracting and retaining the right kind of people to help it remain successful. B. Competitive Positioning – Differentiation and Resource Allocation As stated in the annual report, Johnson Johnson is a company focused on broad-based human healthcare. It offers a plethora of products throughout its pharmaceutical, medical devices and diagnostics, and consumer products divisions. These products are made in response to both local and global consumer demands, representing solutions for many different customer segments. These factors are evidence that Johnson Johnson has chosen the competitive strategy of differentiation. Using this strategy affords Johnson Johnson a sense of prestige and quality and this is evident in its pricing practices. However, the company does use competitive pricing strategies and is continually trying to find ways to lower costs without sacrificing quality or reputation. Johnson Johnson is constantly seeking to expand its product portfolio across all divisions and spends large amounts of money in RD to that end. A Johnson Johnson representative said, â€Å"Be the first, be the best. † This is the most effective way for the company to enter new markets and secure a strong position by being the first to offer the right products in the right locations in a time efficient manner. Johnson Johnson’s ability to perform these actions successfully is due to the sprawling nature of its subsidiaries and the amount of resources dedicated towards making sure that they all work with each other and share information. Johnson Johnson holds a very strong competitive position versus other corporations due to the amount of its resources and depth of its operations. It is able to maintain its position as market leader in several product categories, as well as penetrate emerging markets, because of its ability to adapt quickly and intelligently. The company must remain vigilant, however, as complacency can result in loss of market share. V. Assessing Effectiveness and Conclusion In today’s fast-paced business environment, any firm needs to consistently reevaluate its strategic positioning, but in industries as competitive as the ones in which Johnson Johnson competes, continual evaluation is vital for long-term success. By any quantitative measures, Johnson Johnson is a very successful company, and the fact that it has earned a profit for 75 straight years suggests that there is a definite plan for long-term success. The company’s famous credo, known as â€Å"Our Credo† and written by former chairman Robert W. Johnson in 1943, may have a role in this success. The credo outlines Johnson Johnson’s responsibilities to its customers, employees, communities, and finally its stockholders. It also establishes the principles that guide the company, from making high quality products and recognizing employees’ merit to protecting the environment and experimenting with new ideas. Johnson Johnson’s credo has endured, unchanged, for over 65 years. While it does not explicitly state long term goals, the principles within it express the company’s intrinsic values. According to the company’s website, â€Å"Our Credo is more than just a moral compass. We believe it’s a recipe for business success. The fact that the Johnson   Johnson is one of only a handful of companies that have flourished through more than a century of change is proof of that. † Johnson Johnson has indeed flourished. It consistently tops the corporate reputation charts and is a role model for social responsibility. Moreover, the company is clearly prepared for the many challenges its ever-changing international business environment poses. Due to its strategic positioning and eye on the future, Johnson Johnson will likely survive another century. REFERENCES Academic Visit to Johnson Johnson, Prague, Czech Republic. â€Å"2008 Annual Report. † Johnson Johnson Gassman, Oliver, Gerrit Reepmeyer and Maximilian von Zedtwitz. â€Å"Leading Pharmaceutical Innovation. † Springer â€Å"The Global Pharmaceutical Industry. † Duke University â€Å"Mental health drug market tapped out? † CNNMoney. com â€Å"Our Credo Values. † Johnson Johnson. â€Å"Patent Expirations Behind JJ Cuts, CT Looks Closer at Patents. † Cosmetics and Toiletries How to cite Johnson Johnson Global Business Environment, Essay examples

Tuesday, April 28, 2020

Manufacturing Process Redesign

Table of Contents Statement of the Problem Scope of the Project Stakeholder Analysis Methodology Timeline of the project Measurement system analysis Reference Statement of the Problem The problem in the research is presented in the process. The root of the problem can be traced back to the functioning of the blow molding and assembly processes. It is important to note that there are over 120 shells that go into waste every day. The target of the research will be to modify the process so as to ensure that there are no cold shells at any stage of the process.Advertising We will write a custom report sample on Manufacturing Process Redesign specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Cold scraps have the effect of increasing costs and lowering revenue. Due to cold scraps, the company is not able to maximize its profitability. Dealing with this problem has been identified as being one of the best ways to ensure that the company is back to it s profit making ways. The project objective statement is: To reduce the number of cold shells scrapped to 0. Scope of the Project To better understand the scope of the project, it is important to look at the key terms used in the project. The term unit refers to scrap. These are the cold shells at the end of the project that cause high scrap cost. Defect may refer to a product or a process. The cold shells that are scrapped by the robot in the course of production are referred to as defects. Although the project is concerned with the entire production process, the focus will be on the cooling and assembly processes. The project seeks to establish the root of the problem through assessing the process of cooling as well as the assembly line. The fixtures and details contained in the cooling fixtures as well and in the assembly line will be the main focus of the project. Although the project is set to encounter constrains, the major constrain will be in regards to the two different cus tomer programs which share the same blow molding process. Stakeholder Analysis An analysis will be conducted on the stakeholders to evaluate their position in regards to the goal of the project. Some of the critical analyses that will be conducted are in regards to the facility controller, VP operations, executive VP, and business unit management. In analysis of the Executive VP, the action taken will initiate a meeting with the DC to bring him up to speed. In analysis of the VP operations, the action taken will be centered on the great involvement from D and the excellent support since he has taken over the VPO position. In the facility controller, the action taken will be focused on the savings that can be realized as a result of achieving the goal of this project.Advertising Looking for report on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More In regards top the business unit manager, the focus will be on the assigning of staff members and the amount of personal involvement. The nature of decisions being made will also be an important factor to take into consideration. Methodology The research will commence on the assessment of the blow molding. The focus here is laid on the cooling process on machine 5. In this analysis, the position where the robot waits for the signal is an important area of assessment. Other areas of assessment will include the process of picking the tanks, the weighting process, and the cooling process. Because so much scrap is realized from this section of the entire process, it will be important to look at the fine details and the process involved in weighting, molding, and cooling. Timeline of the project In the first, there will be important activities that will take place. This will include the project charter, assessment and implementation of the CTQ tree, and the project financials. The majority of the processes that will take place in the first month will be concerne d with the definition and envisioning of the future state. The second month of the project will be concerned with measurement and mapping. Here, the process mapping will be done as well as the screening of tools to be used in the process. The MSA will also be tackled extensively during the second month. In the MSA, there are a number of processes that will be dealt with extensively. This will include assessing constrains, providing training, assessing the baseline capability, high level process map. The third month will deal with analysis. Most of what will be done in the third month will be to analyze. There will also be a focus on the waste priorities and detailed analysis. The analysis conducted here will be divided into the passive quantitative analysis and passive qualitative analysis. The fourth month will be all about improvement – the activities therein concerned with the selecting lean methods as well. This will be divided into improvement summaries, experiment execu tion, and experimental plan. The fifth month will be concerned with control. This will be divided into the process controls, handing off to process owners, final process capability, as well as project sign off (Kock, 2007).Advertising We will write a custom report sample on Manufacturing Process Redesign specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Measurement system analysis The achievements made in the course of the process are centered on the system analysis. The measurement system analysis is the gauge through which the different processes contained in the research are weighed. This tool is also important as it provides information about how the system records different aspects involved in production. One of the greatest changes the system has been able to achieve through this system is in regards to the recording process. One of the important things that took place in regards to the MSA is the recording of cold scrap at different intern als. This was done from the blow mold controller. It was done manually and the data was automatically recorded. A paired T test was also done. The main aim of this was to compare the two methods (Infoman and Mold controller) that are contained in production. The practical problem was presented in the question; is the mold controller recording method identical statistically to Infoman recording method? Baseline capability and process stability were also important in the analysis. A fish bone diagram was created where the different factors involved in production were analyzed. These were all gauged in regards to their effect on production, performance, and the goal of the project. Some of the factors analyzed include label accuracy, light curtain status, swipe card reader, part present sensors, lumberjack processes, torque, arrow mark, alignment line, leak, pressure, and continuity. The fish bone diagram also looked at the tank shell, ORVR, ROV, studs, pads, nylon tubes, seals, rings, clamps, hoses, oil, markers, heat shields, and racks. Lean hand, operator, and downline technology were also some of the factors that were analyzed in regards to performance. Some of the amendments that were made in regards to these factors include water, protective equipment, light, and space. Maintenance manuals were also amended as well as the work instructions and the operating manuals. In a bid to increase performance, some of the important issues that were taken into consideration included tank lifters, air guns, continuity testers, leak testers, light curtains, transfer stations, welders, pad stations, FDM stations, and swipe card readers (Kock, 2007). Reference Kock, N.F. (2007). Systems analysis design fundamentals: a business process redesign approach. California: Sage Publications.Advertising Looking for report on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More This report on Manufacturing Process Redesign was written and submitted by user Aurora Scott 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.

Thursday, March 19, 2020

Marketing Environment Forces

Marketing Environment Forces Introduction Marketing environment is a term used to refer to the forces outside of marketing which have an influence on the marketing manager’s ability to create and maintain a healthy relationship with the customers he is targeting. In other words, these forces affect the demand and supply of goods and services. In this write up, focus is given on three marketing forces namely economic, competitive and socio-cultural forces.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Marketing Environment Forces specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Economic forces These refer to prosperity, recession, depression and recovery life cycles and how they affect the consumption of a product. In any circumstance, what determines whether the consumer will use that product is whether he has the ability to purchase it. This makes economic factors key determinants or a key environmental force and the most fundamental force affecting marketing of a co mmodity. Factors like employment, rate of inflation, interest rates, fiscal and monetary policies also fall under this category even though they are intricately intertwined and they eventually affect the business’ marketing activities by determining the amount of demand for the firm’s products (Franke, Hofstede Bond, 1991). How can the marketer use economic odds to his advantage? Depending on how all the economic factors are addressed by the firm, they can be either an opportunity or a threat to the firm. For instance, discount stores and fast food points do better in a down economy as opposed to a vibrant and strong economy where people search for healthier foods. Organizations will therefore need to review how economic conditions will impact on their businesses and respond appropriately. A successful marketer has to anticipate and visualize these economic factors and use them to his advantage. The focus is to get the maximum benefits at the minimum costs possible. O ften in such circumstances as downturns and recessions, there will be high unemployment, low purchasing power, and therefore low demand for products. The strategic marketer can plan to offer more value for the same or lower price than the competitor. He can increase advertising and utilize technology in cost reduction (Porter, 2008). The marketer will become a resource by providing information and tools which are needed by the prospects. Competitive forces Before looking at the competitive forces themselves, it is important to understand the competitive structures. They include monopoly where there is only one marketer in the market place, oligopoly where there are few marketers- say three or four, perfect competition where competitors are of equal strength and equal access to market, and eventually monopolistic competition where there are many marketers.Advertising Looking for essay on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More The monopolistic competition is the most common and marketers have to work to ensure that consumers choose their commodities and not those of their competitors (Lee, 1966). Michael E. Porter classified the forces into five categories, namely the intensity of competitive rivalry, the threat of new entrants, the threat of substitute products and the bargaining power of customers (Porter, 1979). The intensity of rivalry is caused by a large number of firms competing for the same customers and resources, slow market growth that causes firms to fight for the market share, high fixed costs that cause the firms to produce at near capacity and high storage costs or high perishability that cause the producer to sell as soon as possible. Low switching cost where the customer can very easily switch, and low levels of product differentiation usually have the same impact on the marketing. If the strategic stakes are high, they intensify rivalry. When there are high exit ba rriers, it is another way of saying that the firm must stay and compete. The diversity of rivals where it is very difficult to predict the behavior of rivals can mean that any time rivalry can intensify. Other factors on rivalry are level of advertising expense, competitive strategy of each and competition between online and also offline firms (Porter, 2008). Porter’s second category is threat of substitutes. In this, reference is being given to products in other industries. Price elasticity is determined by substitute products. For instance, in the tire industry for cars, pricing may be constrained by the presence of retreads because they are substitutes. There is therefore competition arising from substitutes as opposed to rivals. In simple terms the buyer’s propensity to switch to alternatives is an important consideration. It can be influenced by switching costs, product differentiation, number of substitutes available and relative price performance of the substitu te (Porter, 2008). Another force is the buyer power. Here the buyer is the reference and the one who determines the prices. For instance economists talk of monopsony when there are many sellers but only one buyer. In such a case, the buyer is the one who sets the price. Other issues affecting the buyer are buyer sensitivity to price, switching cost, information availability, degree of dependency on the current channels of distribution and buyer volume.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Marketing Environment Forces specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Supplier power is another competitive force. A supplier is said to be powerful when he can influence the producing industry. Suppliers are powerful when it is difficult for producers to switch suppliers and are weak when there are many competitive suppliers. Threat of new entrants as a competitive force comes in especially when there are no barriers to entry in an industry. I t is not very common especially if there are several well established firms. Other than presence of powerful firms other barriers to entry are government regulation, patents and proprietary knowledge and economies of scale. How can marketers help in facing such forces? When the firm is faced with some or all of these forces, the marketer can take both external and internal measures to jockey for a more favorable position. One of the things he/she can do is to understand the company’s strengths and weaknesses. The company can choose to influence the balance before they negatively affect it. A company can devise a strategy that takes the offensive. This posture is designed to do more than merely cope with the forces themselves; it is meant to alter their causes instead. The company can also exploit the changes in the industry through staking out a position that is less vulnerable to attack from head-to-head opponents, whether established or new, and less vulnerable to erosion f rom the direction of buyers, suppliers, and substitute goods (John Steven, 1983). This it can do through solidifying good relationships with good customers through marketing and establishing technological leadership so as to be on the advantage of new changes. Social-cultural forces These are societal factors that impact on any marketing aspect, either making it easier or challenging. They could relate to language, family, reference groups, roles and status, values and attitudes, religion, morals, education, prioritizing of wants current social trends and many more. All these affect the preferences, perceptions and behavior. For instance, a company that focuses on exercise equipment and low calorie foods when there is a trend of weight loss is likely to sell more. Language for instance will influence the way an advertisement is perceived.Advertising Looking for essay on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Some checklist questions a marketer can ask himself on the social cultural factors are: What is the dominant religion? How does the language of the customers influence the diffusion of the products? How much time do consumers create for leisure? What is the opinion and attitudes towards my type of product and also the company (Adler Mortimer, 1981)? These questions among many others will help a marketer know what issues to address, especially on the advertisement part. Advertisements are meant to create or change an impression among potential buyers. The marketer will therefore align his marketing strategies towards creating a lasting favorable impression among his potential clientele. For instance on religion, the marketing department can promote products that show regard to the religious beliefs like banks that offer Sharia products for Muslims. Most firms try as much as they can to have products that will sell more to the bigger section of the society in regard to any social fac tor since it is difficult to offer a product that satisfies everybody. The marketer should therefore be able to evaluate the quarters that will generate maximum revenue. When the marketing department works hand in hand with the production and other departments, they can create a product that gains favor among consumers while the marketing department creates brand loyalty through product promotion. The firm can take advantage of the socio-cultural factors in creating brand loyalty (Franke, Hofstede Bond, 1991). Conclusion Marketers should perform a SWOT analysis to be able to understand their companies in terms of their abilities and weaknesses first before hitting the market for campaigns. In spite of all the unfavorable forces that are present in their business arena, they should struggle to use the forces to their advantage. However, before entering a market they should also conduct a PEST (political, economic, socio-cultural and technological) survey so that they understand the market and operate in a market they are sure to have less difficulties. References Adler, T. and Mortimer, J. (1981). Six great ideas. Journal of Marketing Management, 23, 12-17. Franke, R. H., Hofstede, G. and Bond M. H. (1991). Cultural roots of economic performance: A research note. Strategic Management Journal, 12, 165-173. John, R. H. and Steven, M. S. (1983). The indicators of a friendly market: Marketing Science, 2(4), 319-360 Lee, J. A. (1966). Cultural analysis in overseas operations. Harvard Business Review, 44(2), 106 114. Porter, M. E. (1979). How competitive forces shape strategy. Harvard Business Review, 14, 3-15. Porter, M. E. (2008). The five competitive forces that shape strategy. Harvard business Review, 35, 45-66.

Tuesday, March 3, 2020

THE UPS AND DOWNS OF BOOK PROMOTION

THE UPS AND DOWNS OF BOOK PROMOTION If you thought writing a book creates emotional upheaval, wait until you try to market it! Nope, people dont just step up and buy the book. You have to subtly, tastefully, skillfully remind them that this book is a tremendous investment without saying, Buy this book. Do you know how hard that is? It means chatting with people and mentioning youre an author, then having all these great one-liner answers to any questions they might ask . . . in hopes those answers convince them to buy. It means being available for signing events, sometimes driving hundreds of miles, only to sell eight books . . .and smiling through it all. It means answering every email with courtesy, cheerfulness, patience, and enthusiasm . . . EVERY email. It means being doubted It means giving away more books than you probably expected, and spending hundreds of dollars in postcards, posters, gas, business cards, website design and more, (much more if you self-publish) as you think maybe the next book will recoup that back for you . . . and hopefully much more. But it also means people gush over how the story resonated with them . . . and you almost cry at each and every time you hear a new person express their enjoyment. It means you dive into the next book, and the next, anxious to show how much better a writer you are now . . . because now you have readers asking when the next book comes out. It means you squeal when someone enjoys a phrase you spent hours perfecting, fighting so hard to make it look easy. There is no arrival in this journey of writing a book. Its always an uphill climb. About the time you have a momentous occasion, youre slapped with two stars instead of five, or some bookstore owner who says, Come back and see me once youve published a second book, or you send out review copies and the reviewer never delivers. About the time family and friends give you great responses, you learn of several who never find time to read it. And you learn to laugh about it . . . laugh about it ALL. You chose this path. Everyone told you it was difficult.Yet you travel it anyway, because seeing your precious stories born to the world is no different than having children. Once you birth those babies you have to commit to the good and the bad of the experience. Some are easier to raise than others, and all of them cause you angst sooner or later. But in the end, you love the heck out of them. Mainly because they are a part of you.

Sunday, February 16, 2020

Coaching Principles and Practice Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2750 words

Coaching Principles and Practice - Essay Example Many coaches never make a conscious decision regarding the coaching method(s) they adopt or could adopt. Often coaches adopt methods they experienced as athletes, or as a consequence of watching other coaches, maybe as a spectator, or as an assistant coach. This approach to learning how to coach is often called the apprentice model because the learning occurs 'on the job' and at the side of a more experienced coach. This model may work well if the exemplary coach is a quality coach and has the time to spend with the apprentice coach, but many times this is not the case and the result is that undesirable coaching practices continue to be reproduced. The work of Tinning et al. (1993) reminds against slipping into the belief that methods exist separately from the coach, and that they can be simply implemented unproblematically by the coach. Coaching is a social practice, and this implies the involvement of the whole person, in relation to specific activities as well as social communities. Thus, methods can be viewed not as a â€Å"set of strategies which can be successfully or unsuccessfully implemented by a teacher [read coach], they are more like a set of beliefs about the way certain types of learning can best be achieved. They are as many statements about valued forms of knowledge as they are about procedures for action†. The direct method of coaching involves the coach to do the following: †¢ Providing the information and direction to the group/individual †¢ Controlling the flow of information... Often coaches adopt methods they experienced as athletes, or as a consequence of watching other coaches, maybe as a spectator, or as an assistant coach. This approach to learning how to coach is often called the apprentice model because the learning occurs 'on the job' and at the side of a more experienced coach. This model may work well if the exemplar coach is a quality coach and has the time to spend with the apprentice coach, but many times this is not the case and the result is that undesirable coaching practices continue to be reproduced. The work of Tinning et al. (1993) reminds against slipping into the belief that methods exist separately from the coach, and that they can be simply implemented unproblematically by the coach. Coaching is a social practice, and this implies the involvement of the whole person, in relation to specific activities as well as social communities. Thus, methods can be viewed not as a "set of strategies which can be successfully or unsuccessfully implemented by a teacher [read coach], they are more like a set of beliefs about the way certain types of learning can best be achieved. They are as much statements about valued forms of knowledge as they are about procedures for action" (Tinning et al. 1993, p. 123). Characteristics of Coaching Methods Direct Method The direct method of coaching involves the coach to do the following: Providing the information and direction to the group/individual Controlling the flow of information Privileging the demonstration, (it can be given by the coach or the athlete, or be on video) (Kirk et al. 1996) Giving little recognition to the diverse needs of the athletes Behaving in ways that can be categorised as managerial and organisational Setting goals that are specific

Sunday, February 2, 2020

Potential Short-Run Economic Impacts of the Recent Japanese Disaster Essay

Potential Short-Run Economic Impacts of the Recent Japanese Disaster on the Australian Economy - Essay Example According to the research findings, it can, therefore, be said that specifically, the study of microeconomics allow us to have better understanding about the movements of money from the local firms to household which often times is dictated by the movements of a curve in demand and supply of goods and services in domestic and global markets. Furthermore, the study of microeconomics allows us to reflect on interrelated between salary and wages, employment and unemployment rate, its potential effects on business performances, and the economy as a whole. Based on the Keynesian model, economic recession and contractions are usually caused by the presence of inadequate demand for Australian goods and services. In fact, the post-Keynesian economics proposed the theory of aggregate employment such that the distribution of income, economic growth and developments in trading practices are dictated by the demand-side curve, Although the post-Keynesian economic theory suggests that the market o f a competitive economy is dictated by the demand-side curve and will never attain or satisfy the idea of full employment, economists generally believe the presence of inadequate demand for goods and services can cause a serious market failure and economic problems. With this in mind, the presence of inadequate demand can result in the presence of high unemployment rate. The recent tsunami in Japan has to lead to a significant decrease in the demand for Australian coal and iron ore. The problem with a sudden decrease in demand for goods and services is that the business owners of local firms in Australia may simply lay-off some of its current employees.

Saturday, January 25, 2020

Products And Services Offered By Pepsico Commerce Essay

Products And Services Offered By Pepsico Commerce Essay PepsiCo is one of the most successful beverage and snack food business in the world. PepsiCo started on 1965, during that time Pepsi-Colas CEO and President Donald M, Kendall approached Herman Lay, Frito-Lays Chairman and CEO with a proposition of merging the two company in providing food and beverage with complementary products that would give a lesser opportunity for cost sharing, joint merchandising and knowledge and skill transfer (MightyStudents, 2010). PepsiCo brands are available in nearly 200 countries and territories. Its expertise is to create different food and beverage products that would soothe the taste of its consumer.  PepsiCo is a world leader in convenient foods and beverages, with revenues of about $57 billion and over 294,000 employees (JobsGlobal Online, 2011). The reinvention of different products, the introduction of new product, expansion into international markets and clever advertising campaigns are the primary focus of PepsiCo Inc.   PepsiCos considerable marketing expertise could be leveraged in the marketing of fried chicken, pizza, and Mexican fast foods. The companys current operating locations, headquarters and current initial public offering stock market. Pepsi-Cola North America, headquartered in Purchase, New York, is the refreshment beverage unit of PepsiCo Beverages and Foods North America, a division of PepsiCo, Inc. PepsiCo Beverages and Foods North America also comprises PepsiCos Tropicana, Gatorade and Quaker Foods businesses in the United States and Canada. Brand Pepsi and other Pepsi-Cola products account for nearly one-third of total soft drink sales in the United States, a consumer market totaling about $57 billion. Outside the United States, Pepsi-Cola beverages are available in about 160 countries. Today Pepsi-Cola products account for about a quarter of all soft drinks sold internationally (Global Finance, 2011).. The company has also established operations in the emerging markets of the Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, Slovakia, India and Russia, where Pepsi-Cola was the first U.S. consumer product to be marketed. Pepsi-Cola provides advertising, marketing, sales and promotional support to Pepsi-Cola bottlers and food service customers. This includes some of the worlds best and most recognized advertising. New advertising and exciting promotions keep Pepsi-Cola brands young. Performance and achievements PepsiCo current performance and achievement is Conserved more than 12 billion liters of water through efficiency improvements within PepsiCo operations as compared to the 2009 baseline. Achieved a 16 percent reduction in per unit use of energy in beverage plants and a 7 percent reduction in snack plants in 2010 compared to a 2009 baseline. Introduced the first fully compostable Sun Chips bag, which is made with 100 percent renewable plant-based materials. Increased the percentage of executive positions held by women globally to 30 percent. Reduced saturated fat by more than 50 percent in U.S. Lays and Ruffles potato chips. PepsiCos success is the result of superior products, high standards of performance, distinctive competitive strategies and the high integrity. The Macro-environment analysis of PepsiCo Company. Political Factors: The production distribution and use of many of PepsiCo product are subject to various federal laws, such as the Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act, the Occupational Safety and Health Act ad the Americans with Disabilities. The government plays a role within the operation of manufacturing these products in terms of regulations. There are potential fines set by the government on companies if they do not meet a standard of laws. The businesses are also subject to state, local and foreign laws. The international businesses are subject to the Government stability in the countries where PepsiCo is trying get into underdeveloped markets. The businesses are also subject to de taxation policy in each country they are operating. They also have to comply with federal, state, local and foreign environmental laws and regulations. In political stability, whenever the Government Is Considered to Be Stable, the business will grow. If there is political stability in the country the policies and strategies made by Pepsi can be consistent to be implemented. Foreign companies are also keen to invest in those countries which are politically stable where they have no fear of decline in their market share or shut down due to sudden change of government. In mixed economy government and private sector both plays their role in developing the economy of the country. Investment by foreign companies like Pepsi is more likely to flourish in mixed economy. Economic Factors: The key elements taken into consideration are the principal market risks, which PepsiCo is exposed to inflation rate, interest rate, and foreign exchange rate. These are specified as: The major economic issue facing PepsiCo and its subdivisions is the rising input costs of  their businesses due to structural inflation.   Agricultural, energy, and some metal industries are going through periods of steady inflation.   Because PepsiCo relies on these industries, inflation costs must be factored into their cost equations.   In inflation rate, if the country faces inflationary trend in the market, the price of the Pepsi will ultimately increase which will lower its demand. Interest rate on PepsiCos debt as well as it short-term investment portfolio: PepsiCo can manage its overall financing strategies in term of balancing investment opportunities and risks. The company is using interest rate and currency swaps to effectively modify the interest rate in order to reduce the overall borrowing costs Foreign exchange rate and other international economic conditions, operating in international markets involve exposure to movements in currency exchange rates, which typically affect the economic growth, inflation, interest rate, government actions and other factors. Once these changes occur, they will cause PepsiCo to adjust its financing and operating strategies. Changes in currency exchange rates that would have the largest impact on translating PepsiCos international operating profit include Mexican peso, British pound, Canadian dollar and Brazilian real. Social cultural Factors: Consumers today are not as much joyous to cola products as they were before. Age and ethnicity are two main characteristics that affect consumer preference for soft drinks and alternative beverages. With age, health concerns become more of a factor when choosing a beverage. To illustrate, some studies show that cola products or soft drink in general may cause kidney stones and other related diseases. In contrast to older consumers, younger consumers particularly teens and those in their twenties have less attention spans for products and are more likely to prefer products that seems to be fun and different .   Age and ethnicity are two main characteristics that affect consumer preference for soft drinks and alternative beverages. With age, health concerns become more of a factor when choosing a beverage (PepsiCo, 2006). The requirements of different age groups are different. PepsiCo should target that age group that consumes it the most and make promotional strategies according to their behavior. So their main target is the young generation. The social environment within food services markets are changing significantly.   A new demand for healthy food and beverages coupled with a push towards green operations and environmentally-friendly company management has changed the social playing field within most markets.   With this in mind, PepsiCo have successfully adopted new goals and produced new products in order to meet this more health-conscious market.   PepsiCo and moreover Pepsi is subject to the lifestyle changes, because of it bases her advertising campaigns in a concrete kind of people with an special lifestyle, it is for that PepsiCo has to pay a special attention on the lifestyle changes. Particularly in the United States Pepsi drinkers are much defined, there is a kind of people who drinks Pepsi another kind who drinks Coca-Cola; it is for that they have to pay attention to the social mobility for not losing a possible market. Technological Factors: PepsiCo and its subdivisions utilize technology in order to sustain company growth, keep up with the demands of its sustained growth, and perform efficiently.   PepsiCos delivery systems provide a strong competitive advantage.   In particular, their most powerful distribution system, Direct store-delivery (DSD) allows them to supply all of their retailers and customer-distributors with up-to-date stock.   Direct store-delivery allows us to create maximum appeal and visibility for our brands and support in-store promotions.   DSD works well for popular products we restock often, because it allows us to distribute new products quickly.   Our DSD system reaches hundreds of thousands of retail outlets this way, from neighborhood convenience stores to large-format supermarkets (Annual Report, 11). Through research and development quality of the product can be improved or better techniques or machinery can be developed which can increase the production. When technology is advance the supply of the product increase hence the company experiences growth in their business. Some factors that cause companys actual results to differ materially from the expected results are as follows: The effectiveness of companys advertising, marketing and promotional programs. The new technology of internet and television which use special effects for advertising through media by make some products look attractive. This helps in selling of the products. This advertising makes the product attractive. This technology is being used in media to sell their products. Introduction of cans and plastic bottles have increased sales for PepsiCo as these are easier to carry and you can bin them once they are used. As the technology is getting advanced there has been introduction of new machineries all the time. Due to introduction of this machineries the production of the PepsiCo company has increased tremendously then it was few years ago. Legal Factors: In elements with changes to legislation, Waste Management and Public Concerns of growing environmental awareness are leading to increasing legislation. The companys operation is affected by federal legislative proposals that address the four objectives. First, minimize the quantity of packaging material entering the nations solid waste system. Second, minimize the consumption of scarce natural resources. Third, maximize the recycling and reuse of packaging materials. Fourth, Protect human health and the natural environment from adverse effects associated with the disposal of packaging materials. Laws Formulation in order Government has given copy rights to PepsiCo by Pepsi product, so that another company cannot sell their product by the name of Pepsi. The countries where laws are formulated, the strategies and activities of the company are different. This is one of the most important factors that a company needs to consider while starting, establishing and expanding operations in any country. Legal Environment is important because a company needs to confirm to the laws of the land and carry out its operations accordingly. While political environment is important as it can play an important informing opinions regarding the company. This is the reason why PepsiCo operates in India in collaboration, initially it started its operations in India with Punjab Government and then it started its operations in the carbonated and non-carbonated beverage segment n collaboration with RKJ group in India. Environment Factors: This plays an important role in determining the acceptability of the product according to the environment norms of the market and the effect the company has on each of these. In the area of Environment, PepsiCo Foundation seeks programs that protect water sources and create better use for existing water, in order to help minimize the growing water crisis that is faced by millions of people around the globe. In social responsibility, PepsiCo social responsibility is to provide its customers with clean and hygienic product so to do this they have increased the use of disposable bottles. Companies need to be very careful about this issue as people are very sensitive about their culture and may not tolerate any infringement. This determines the ingredients of the products and the type advertisement and promotions used by the company. The international considerations Where do they operate? PepsiCo entered India in 1989 and has grown to become the countrys largest selling food and Beverage Company. One of the largest multinational investors in the country, PepsiCo has established a business which aims to serve the long term dynamic needs of consumers in India (PepsiCo India, 2011). The group has built an expansive beverage and foods business. To support its operations, PepsiCo has 36 bottling plants in India, of which 13 are company owned. In addition to this, PepsiCos Frito Lay foods division has 3 state-of-the-art plants. PepsiCos business is based on its sustainability vision of making tomorrow better than today. PepsiCos commitment to living by this vision every day is visible in its contribution to the country, consumers and farmers (PepsiCo India, 2011). What is/are their internationalisation method(s)? In order to enter the market scene, PepsiCo has been able to use joint venture. Joint venture is the term used when a business company merged to other company for the purpose of entering the international market.   This is an alternative mode of exploiting a particular asset such as retail and potential branch network to form an arrangement with an established supplier of the product. PepsiCo gained entry to India in 1989 by creating a joint venture with the Punjab government-owned  Punjab Agro Industrial Corporation  (PAIC) and  Voltas India Limited. This joint venture marketed and sold Pepsi  until 1991, when the use of foreign brands was allowed; PepsiCo bought out its partners and ended the joint venture in 1994. With the joint venture method used by the company to enter an international market, PepsiCo has been able to be known in the international market. Hence, it can be said that the method used by the company as a mode of foreign market entry is effective and appropriate to achieve the goal of the company of having a strong competitive position in the international market.   The company has used suitable market entry mode to ensure that their products will be delivered to international market. Discuss the problems faced by the company in international business and propose solution to overcome the issues. Problems Initially, the India market was highly fragmented, and the wholesale and distributional systems were outdated. This was further complicated because PepsiCo was the actually  existing wholesaler of concentrate, and did not have access to the operation of the bottling plants. To add to this problem, the companys local market agents were fully responsible for production and distribution during the initial stages of market entry. The India government exerted tight control over the development of the soft drink industry and was careful to nurture domestic brands. PepsiCo was not permitted to enter into a Joint Venture bottling business with its local partners until 1992, and even then it was restricted to a minority stake.   Pepsi is also facing the problem concerning environmental issues like the supply of raw materials to produce their products. If Pepsi fails to help in environmental issues, the situation it had been during World War might happen again  when they almost went out of business because of the shortage of sugar.  Ã‚   Solution To overcome the above problem, PepsiCo internalized market transactions through a strategy of long-term investment and, with the approval of the government was able to co-ordinate this with an increased control of production and domestic distribution. In the highly competitive market share driven business of carbonated soft drinks, to assume control of production and distribution is strategically essential. This meant that the acquisition of majority stakes in the bottling plants is almost a prerequisite for gaining the control over management. Pepsi also has to deal with such environmental issues like the supply of raw materials to produce their products. If the environment will provide them a good raw material they might have a more profit.  PepsiCos dedication and commitment to the environment is stated in their Worldwide Code of Conduct. The  Worldwide Code of Conduct  defines PepsiCos commitment based on the following environmental principles. Developing programs that promote clean air and water, energy conservation, and reduce land fill waste. By supporting programs that educate, train and motivate employees to help the environment. Business is conducted by complying with all applicable laws and regulations and provides a safe and healthy environment. Minimizing the impact of our businesses on the environment through methods that are socially responsible, scientifically based and economically sounds, such as recycling and conservation. By cooperating with different organizations and governments to find solutions to reduce pollution and by supporting environmental policies. In order to make this foreign operational mode combination a success, PepsiCo should consider the most suitable and effective expansion strategy. It can be said that the spread of PepsiCo is truly global. The company has hundreds of brands, which can be found in almost 200 countries and territories around the world. Market concentration is the result of interaction between the market size and a few vital factors. It is said that the industry of Carbonated Soft Drinks (CSD) is highly concentrated. There are three major industries that compete in this business (PepsiCo and Coca-Cola). This shows that PepsiCo have a high market concentration. In this manner, the international market entry of PepsiCo is a good expansion strategy so as to maintain its position in the global market. In order to ensure that the market entry combination strategy used by the company will succeed, the company must be avail to consider the aspects of control and monitoring. In this manner, the company must have a monitoring team that will ensure the profitability and growth of the company as the expansion strategy has been initiated.   The monitoring team will be responsible for identifying the possible risks that the company will encounter upon the initiation of the expansion strategy through foreign market entry mode. In addition, this team will also be accountable for determining the cost that will be needed to implement that new strategy. Product competitive analysis SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats) analysis of the companys products. Strengths Branding One of PepsiCos top brands is of course Pepsi, one of the most recognized brands of the world, ranked according to Interbrand. As of 2008 it ranked 26th amongst top 100 global brands. Pepsi generates more than $15,000 million of annual sales. Pepsi is joined in broad recognition by such PepsiCo brands as Diet Pepsi. Diversification PepsiCos diversification is obvious in that the fact that each of its top 18 brands generates annual sales of over $1,000 million. PepsiCos arsenal also includes ready-to-drink teas, juice drinks, bottled water, as well as breakfast cereals, cakes and cake mixes. This broad product base plus a multi-channel distribution system serve to help insulate PepsiCo from shifting business climates. Distribution The Company delivers its products directly from manufacturing plants and warehouses to customer warehouses and retail stores. This is part of a three pronged approach which also includes employees making direct store deliveries of snacks and beverages and the use of third party distribution services. Weaknesses Second Mover Disadvantage Diet Pepsi Cola does have the first mover advantage which Diet Coke has and this may prove to be a major shortcoming also in the US Market no Extensive efforts have been made to popularize it. By brand, on a comparative scale Diet Coke proves to have a better brand image in customers mind than. This compels to incur extra expenditure in Advertising, Promotions and Sponsorship. Competitor The main competitor of the company is the Coca Cola. At the international level, Pepsi has a very strong competition with Coke. Coke has started its advertisements more effectively to increase their demand and it is a very strong threat for Pepsi. Expenditure Right from the very beginning Pepsi has hired the biggest and the most expensive stars in the country as its brand ambassadors and has spend heavily on advertising which has affected its balance sheet Opportunities Lowest Per Capita Consumption Even after almost decades of presence in the market, there are growth opportunities for Pepsi in US as here the per capita consumption of carbonated beverages is one of the lowest in the world. Health Based apart from its Juice Based drinks portfolio Pepsi can use the Slim Diet can to the maximum by promoting it as a health drink at cheaper prices. Healthy foods supportive The increasing concern for healthy foods supportive of diet and wellness will open a new door of opportunity for PepsiCo.   The acquisition of Aquafina, Tropicana and Quaker Oats is already a significant positive step towards the consideration of a healthier food and beverage alternative.   The awareness does not limit itself to these products and in fact, as if in a synergistic dedication,. PepsiCo is also committed towards the healthy lifestyle of children through school programs.   As PepsiCo caters to snack foods that are high in fat, PepsiCo must continue to challenge itself in the provision of healthy foods in the light of a deteriorating contemporary times.   The spotlight on healthier foods would hopefully cut the costs of the ever-inflating cooking oil prices as focus is made on high protein snacks. New markets expansion New markets are similarly opening up in the world, open for further expansion.   Most apparent is the opening of the Chinese market.   Taking in mind the large population of this country, Pepsi must find measures to quickly penetrate, expand to China and beating the competition that will arise from there.   They must appeal to the tastes, culture and locale of their new Asian markets using a local feel to their products which can be manageable in their strong advertising campaign. Pepsi continuing diversity will provide the much needed back-up for the company and allow it to rely on other companies and businesses than just a sole powerful brand. Threats Health Growing health awareness among people and some of ill effects of carbonated beverages have pursued many people to switch over to non-carbonated beverages that can seriously impede the long-term prospects of the entire Industry and Pepsi. Environment Environmental concerns are often raised because of the massive amount of water extracted by the bottling plants resulting in the drop in groundwater level which affects the local population adversely Intense Competition The Coca-Cola Company is PepsiCos primary competitors. But others include Nestlà ©, and Kraft Foods. Intense competition may influence pricing, advertising, sales promotion initiatives undertaken by PepsiCo. Recently Coca-Cola passed PepsiCo in Juice sales. Suggest solutions to recover the position of the weaknesses and threat of the product line. The solutions to recover the position of the weaknesses and threat of the product line is Pepsi should also introduce a version of Diet Pepsi Cola as a sports drink range this is a completely new and untapped market which will help in providing the impetus for Diet Pepsi. Pepsi should start more aggressive marketing of its Diet Pepsi range of products as they have very good growth and future prospects while there is not much growth in the carbonated beverages sector. Next solution is the Pepsi is at its maturity stage and the sales of company are not growing very rapidly. Company is doing a lot of promotional activities to let the product remain in the market. It holds a large share of the market and whenever the sales state declining, the Pepsi can improve it by different promotional activities. Marketers of Pepsi can try to improve sales by improving one or more marketing mix elements. They can cut prices to attract new users and competitors customers. They can also launch a better advertising campaign or use aggressive sales promotion to improve the sales. Thus, Pepsi is at its maturity stage. The next solutions to recover the position of the weaknesses and threat of the product line is for Pepsi is to move forward with commitment to provide industry leadership in the health and wellness arena. Pepsi should do a better job of staying in touch with shoppers and consumers and in the process of innovating and creating value. This is absolutely essential for value creation in the beverage industry. I think the most important driver behind the demand for beverage is population demographics. The final solution for Pepsi is to develop strategies to win the cola war in this century. Winning the cola war in twenty-first century is critical for Pepsi to maintain its industry leadership position and to be a total beverage company. New Venture Barriers to entry New entrants Pepsi to the Norway industry were very high human development (VHHD) are not a strong competitive pressure in the soft drink industry. Coca-Cola and PepsiCo dominate with their strong brand name and superior distribution channels. In addition, the soft-drink industry is fully saturated. New growth is small. This makes it very difficult for new, unknown entrants to start competing against the existing established firms. Another barrier to entry is the high fixed costs for warehouses, trucks, and labor and economies of scale in Norway country. New entrants cannot compete on price without economies of scale. These high capital requirements and market saturation make it extremely difficult for companies to enter the soft drink industry; therefore new entrants are not a strong competitive force. Pepsis product differentiation caused by their marketing strategy has limited the threat of new entrants. Also the heavy start up costs of manufacturing and packaging plants would be a deterrent. But, the biggest deterrent is brand image and reputation; a new company would be very hard pressed to take market share away from established players like Pepsi, Coke etc. More importantly, the access to distribution channels is currently one of the biggest barriers to entry, and this barrier remains because both Coke and Pepsi maintain very strong relation with their channel partners. 6.2 Threat of Substitutes Substitutes for Pepsi products in Norway with (VHHD) are bottled water, sports drinks, coffee, and tea. Bottled water and sports drinks are increasingly popular with the trend towards the health conscious consumer. There are a growing number and varieties of water and sports drinks that appeal to different consumers tastes. These are advertised as healthier than soft drinks. In addition, coffee and tea are competitive substitutes because they provide caffeine. Soft drinks can be substituted with coffee. Specialty blend coffees are also becoming more popular with the increasing number of Starbucks stores that offer many different flavors to appeal to all consumer markets. Low switching costs for the consumer makes the threat of substitute products very strong (Datamonitor, 2006). 6.3 The bargaining power of supplier Threats of Suppliers to in Norway (VHHD) are suppliers Pepsi are bottling equipment manufacturers and secondary packaging suppliers. Since Pepsi owns the majority of the bottler, it looks like that particular supplier does not hold much bargaining power. However, there has been increased concern about the simmering tensions between Pepsi and its increasing powerful independent bottlers such as PepsiCo. PepsiCo controls 80 percent of the US market as well as parts of Europe. Pepsi is introducing new product at a significant rate. The operational and distributional complexity due to new product introduction is affecting the bottom line of the bottlers. Some bottlers have even refused to carry new products. In terms of equipment manufacturers, the suppliers are generally providing the same products. The number of equipment suppliers is not in short supply, so it is fairly easy for a company to switch suppliers. This takes away much of the suppliers bargaining power. However, rising sugar and packaging material prices have a direct impact on the profitability of the Pepsis products. 6.4 The Bargaining power of Buyers The buyers power in new venture of Norway with Very High Human Development County, Pepsi and other soft drinks are mainly large grocers, discount stores, and restaurants. The soft drink companies distribute the beverages to these stores for resale to the consumer. The bargaining power of the buyers is very evident and strong. Large grocers and discount stores buy large volumes of the soft drinks, allowing them to buy at lower prices. Restaurants have less bargaining power because they do not order in large volume. However, with the number of people drinking less soft drink, the bargaining power of buyers could start increasing due to decreasing buyer demand. The interesting shift in buyer demand because of increased demand for healthy choices has driven the market share of substitute drinks. Consumers are focusing more on healthy choices and buying healthy drinks from high end specialty stores. This phenomenon is due to health and wellness trend sweeping across the global beverage market. Soft drink consumers are moving their consumption from regular cola carbonates to low-calorie carbonates, bottled water, sport drinks, juice and teas. Pepsi should adapt to this consumer behavior for future growth. 6.5 Competitive rivalry The competitive pressure from rival sellers is the greatest competition that Pepsi faces in the soft drink industry to enter to Norway. PepsiCo, Coca-Cola, and Cadbury Schweppes are the largest competitors in this industry with global presence. Though Pepsi owns four of the top five soft drink brands (Pepsi, Diet Pepsi, Mirinda, and 7 up), it had lower sales in 2006 than did Coca-Cola. However, PepsiCo has higher sales in the global market than Coca-Cola. In 2006, PepsiCo dominated North America with sales of $22 billion, whereas Pepsi only had about $7 billion, with more of their sales coming from overseas. PepsiCo is the main competitor for Coca-Cola and these two brands have been in a power struggle for more than a century.