The e-businesss decision making and the customers decision makings Literature review

The e-businesss decision making and the customers decision makings effect each other - Literature review Example Assael believed that the process of decision-making can mainly divided into two parts, choosing and making decision (P48, 2000). It is a well known that the decision making process is an essential aspect of the business and most leaders are aware of the intensity and importance of decision making to the business. The process of decision making generally involves a high number of uncertainties and confusions. As very well explained by Chris Brogan, â€Å"Things are running well and you come up with a hundred new ideas to expand; Things go poorly, and you find yourself grinding through dozens of ideas of what will fix it. But the success youll eventually experience will come from understanding those decisions deeply† (Brogan, 2010). The main aim of good decision making is the need to understand the decisions and choices being made. Decision making has been referred to with a number of words like ‘difficult, perplexing, and nerve racking’ (Arsham, 2010). It is essential to note that these terms are only used on decision making as the process of making a decision is one which is a critical moment for the business and can impact the business in a number of ways. Decisions are the heart and blood of organizations and need to be taken with extreme care and with high levels of focus. Decision making has been defined as â€Å"the process of responding to a problem by searching for and selecting a solution or course of action that will create value for organizational stakeholders† (Scribd, 2010). It is also essential to note that decision making stands on six C’s, these include, a) Construct, b) Compile, c) Collect, d) Compare, e) Consider, f) Commit. Having understood the meaning of decision making, it is essential to understand the decision making process. The next sub section details the decision making process. The decision making process is more of looped process and

What aspects of George Orwell Essay Example for Free

What aspects of George Orwell Essay Dressed in their blue shorts, grey shirts and red neckerchiefs these young spies fell nothing short of looking as if they were a western cowboy, and with their tracking ears and armed with catapults and stones, the children were a great threat to any thought criminal. During his stay within the Ministry of Love (or Miniluv) Winston had a final conversation with a close friend of his, Mr Parsons, father to two members of the Spies. During this conversation he soon discovered how the thought police had caught Parsons. Although he was ashamed of his actions against the party, Parsons was still able to hold his head up high and announce that It was my little daughter She listened at the key hole nipped off to the patrols the next day In fact Im proud of her. Yet how was it possible for a father to be denounced to the Thought Police by his own daughter? How could there be such breaks in a family who had been living happily together for over seven years? Love to others had been replaced for an abundant love for Big Brother. A love that he needed to keep the people on his side. The only feelings of love or hate that a true party member was supposed to have would be total love for Big Brother, and an incredible hate for any enemy, whether is was Eastasia or Eurasia, depending on the times. By eliminating any love between family members, Big Brothers leading party could be sure that all available love was used towards him, so that he would be idolised and praised by all, and so that the party could gain complete control. This elimination of any feelings towards someone else apart from hate to me is the most disturbing aspect of 1984. Although family love between parent and child was easily conquered, it was far harder to eliminate love between two young adults seeking their future partner. Any act of lust towards another was seen as incorrect and so it was inevitable that enjoyment from making love would disappear as any sign of it would be considered as thoughtcrime by the Thought Police. We are able to see how there is such great separation between a couple when Winston describes his wife, Katherine, to Julia. He describes her in newspeak as Goodthinkful, unaware of the partys propaganda and totally willing to do anything that was for the good of the party. He then went on to describe to Julia how Katherine only took the act of making love (and prospective new entrants for the Spies) Our duty to the party. The single thought of having one of the few things that you would be able to get pleasure from taken away from you and replaced as a party duty, clearly shows how the Inner-Party wanted to minimise everything. To such an extent that perhaps one day there would not be many small things that at some points came together, but instead there would only be one great idea in life Big Brother. This destruction of all that was unneeded in life brought one further change to the lives of all that occupied Oceania, the cut down of the English language into Newspeak. We take it for granted that we are able to express our thoughts positively as well as negatively but the aim of newspeak was to abolish all negative wording and replace it with words such as ungood or doubleplusungod as a description of the most negative accord. I find this so astonishing and disturbing that while we today are urged to express feelings freely and truthfully whereas in the Utopian world of George Orwells Oceania, it was a sin to do so. To the onlooker of George Orwells world it seems incredible how anyone could be able to live like millions did within the book, and I too have similar feelings. Yet I would by no means outride Airstrip one for being a place within which a human could be able to live their life happily without worries. A child born in the city of London in 1984 would be unconscious to any political controversy and would be brought up thinking that the respect and love for Big Brother was a normal occurrence, and he would not be wrong in thinking so. For once an alternative way of ruling has been devised and set-up any one within the system any newborn baby (or born-again Big Brother worshiper) would be unaware of such atrocious doings of the Party. And as stated on the third page of the book Ignorance is Strength, the ignorance of a child to the regime of Big Brother will only make him stronger, and the ignorance of the people to the Partys action will also make the Party stronger.

Spirituality and Sexuality in Palliative Care

Spirituality and Sexuality in Palliative Care Anjum zahoor Significance of spirituality and sexuality in palliative care According to WHO (2012) â€Å"Palliative care is an approach that improves the quality of life of patients and their families facing the problem associated with life-threatening illness, through the prevention and relief of suffering by means of early identification and impeccable assessment and treatment of pain and other problems, physical, psychosocial and spiritual†. The aim of palliative care is to provide comfort care and support system at end of life, to relieve suffering and cope with problem associated with life changes due to illness. Literature also supported that Palliative care does not depend on prognosis, as the life is at end stage, or cure the disease. But it focuses primarily on anticipating, preventing, diagnosing, and treating symptoms experienced by patients with a serious or life-threatening illness and helping patients and their families make medically important decisions. During my palliative course clinical I encountered with 80 year old male patient admitted with complain of drowsiness, hiccups and upper GI bleed. At Aku he was treated as aspiration pneumonia. During history taking patient stated that, from two days I was feeling weak and unable to move myself. After investigations, reports revealed that he was suffering from bilateral brain atrophy, subdural hygromas and Pleural effusion in left lung. In Four days clinical I observed that his son took care of his father, reciting holy Quran and sprinkle holy water on his face. When I assessed patient’s spiritual Domain, his son verbalized that before hospitalization he was very punctual in his rituals, offered prayers. Due to hospitalization he was unable to perform his rituals. During care when I asked about patient’s memorable day he stated that my memorable day is when me and my wife went to America to meet my daughter .we enjoyed a lot, visited the entire beautiful place and spend good time with my family. Suddenly patient stop conversation and cried. I shocked for a while, elaborating further he mention that he lost his wife. I felt very sad. The moment is very emotional, and my eyes are full of tears. I felt like crying. I felt the pain he was going through from which he can get relief after peace full death. I was very sorry for the absence of his family members, during his last movement who can give at least moral support for him. As a nursing student my responsibility is to provide holistic care to the patient and his family. During care I identified several affected domains, like physical (pain in leg and stomach, drowsiness), psycho-social (death of wife), spiritual (religious), and many others. Here all domains of palliative care are interlinked to each other but I focused on two affected domains: spiritual and sexual. This paper is about issues, intervention, recommendations regarding spirituality and sexuality. I would like to discuss the highlighted domain which was spirituality. Many patients find changes in their spirituality when they are at end of life. Some patients get very closer to God, offer their rituals and find religion as a coping mechanism to enhance their well-being. While some people get confused and stack in spiritual conflicts, blaming God for illness and denied from happening as result they separate themselves from supreme-power. Similar is the case with my patient, because of his illness his religious practice was greatly altered. As patient was CBR and has pain in his leg and right hand. He used to offer regular rituals prior, to his illness and now he is upset as he is unable to do. But he is very satisfied with his God’s blessing. He says that â€Å"God gave me everything, fulfill my wishes, and I am very happy with my life. But now he considers himself unkempt bec ause of urine bag, NG tube. I encouraged patient and his family to reconnect with God. Sulmasy, D. P. (2006). Stated that â€Å"spirituality play a vital role in a person’s coping style. It can also provide a network of social support that promote and to maintain emotional and psychological wellbeing†. As a nurse when I assess patients need, he verbalized that he wants to offer prayers. At that time I provide table covered with clean white clothes, so that patient put his tasbii on it and offer his prayer. Due to his physical illness he does not able to stand so, I encourage patient to offer ritual on his bed and I assist him with physical limitation. I curtain patients bed provided privacy and encouraged patient’s family to recite holy Quran near bed side, and assist to show the direction of kiblah. During feeding his son requested me to give holy water I give. The family really appreciates me and my effect comes fruitful. It makes me so happy and proud. Other highlighted domain was sexuality. Sexuality is fundamental desire for all human being. According to WHO as cited in (Tierney,D.K. (2008). â€Å"Sexuality is the combination of physical, emotional, intellectual, and social aspects of sexual beings in positive ways to enrich and enhance personality, communication, and love†. Most of the health care professionals are hesitant in asking about these issues. Health care provider always address physical, social, psychological domain and many times they neglect the domain of sexuality in their care. As a palliative care nurse it’s my responsibility to provide holistic care to patients so it’s important to discuss the impact of their illness on sexuality. Sexuality is not only about intercourse or not refer to just a physical act but it means identity, gender roles and orientations, libido, pleasure, and attachment. It is experienced and may be expressed through thoughts and feelings and love. It doesn’t matt er patient is so aged, weak or drowsy, but we have to assess patient sexual component. According to Julie (2004) sexuality is a lifelong natural need that is not limited by age, physical appearance, health status, or functional abilities. Referring to my patient’s sexual domain. No doubt patient’s wife is no more, he feel alone and misses his wife, he seems weak or aged but we have to assess patient’s sexual need, his feeling toward it. May be patient wants to meet his daughter share his feeling and emotion with her, gave any advice to them. As a nurse it is not necessary that I help patient to meet with his wife to fulfill his sexual desire, it doesn’t mean that. Delivering physical care also come in sexuality. Moreover, during our palliative course theory session, one of our faculties told us that physical appearance also comes under component of sexuality. If a person is looking well, his self-esteem also improves, while if a person is unkempt, his sel f-esteem declines which ultimately affects patient’s sexuality too. I give fully attention to my patient in care, I give mouth care, bedding, encourage to change clothes. Encourage patient’s family to share his feeling with him. Now a day Palliative care nursing is a very new and fruitful concept. It is started in our country but on a very slow moving and special effort is needed to build up this field. Moreover at organization level we have to work on it. Awareness session, programs are required. So we should conduct session with collaboration of other institution to come close to holistic care during last moment of live. As a student nurse it is our responsibility to assess all domain of palliative care. I would like to share a model that would further enhance our capabilities to understand the qualities of nurses that would help the nurses to play an effective role in palliative care. The model I am discussing isThe Nursing Role Effectiveness Model.This model focuses on the nursing variables such as education and working experience that had a direct impact on patients effective palliative care. If a nurse is well aware and educated about the technical ways of communication with a dying patient, so she can ease his suffering in an effectual manner (Lange, Thom Kline, 2008). Furthermore, health care team should have knowledge about spirituality so that they can identify and fulfill the need of patients by providing them holistic care. It is also recommended that there should be a separate room for patient and family, where they can peace fully performed their rituals. There should a system in hospital policy that provides a spiritual leader. For sexuality it is necessary that nurse should perform a profound sexual assessment and build a therapeutic relationship. It would allow the client to comfortably verbalize his feelings. Moreover, if his family would be there so we would encourage them to spend time with the patient, hug him, kiss him or be intimate with him. Hereother ways of conveying intimacy. Legg, M. (2013). In conclusion, palliative nursing care plays a vital role in terminally ill patients and family to enhance their wellbeing. It is very important component of holistic care and we nurses also play very crucial role in improving condition of patients, providing moral support, which include social, sexual, spiritual emotional and psychological domain. By end of two week of clinical I realized that how much palliative course is important to enhanced or support for patient. In future I will tried my best to help them ,provide a moral care .i used this knowledge in to practice in my community to promote this course. REFERENCE Baldacchino, D.R. (2011). Teaching On Spiritual Care: The perceived impact on qualified nurses. Nurse Education in practice, 11, 47-53. Julie,M. (2004). Sexuality at the end of life.American Journal of Hospice Palliative Care,21. Lange, M., Thom, B., Kline, N. (2008). Assessing Nurses Attitudes toward Death and Caring for Dying Patients in a Comprehensive Cancer Center.Oncology Nursing Forum,35(6), 955-959. doi:10.1188/08.onf.955-959 Legg, M. (2013). What is psychosocial care and how can nurses better provide it to adult oncology patients.Australian Journal of Advance Nursing, 28(3), pp.1-13.. Olasinde, T. A. (2012). Religious and Cultural Issues surrounding Death and Bereavement in Nigeria.Online Journal of African Affairs,1(1), 1-3 Tierney,D.K.(2008). Sexuality: A Quality-of-Life Issue for Cancer Survivors.Seminars in Oncology Nursing,24(2), 71-79. doi:10.1016/j.soncn.2008.02.001 Sulmasy, D. P. (2006). Spiritual Issues in the Care of Dying Patients: â€Å" Its Okay Between Me and God†. Jama, 296(11), 1385-1392. World Health Organization. (2012). WHO definition of palliative care nursing.

England in 1819 Essay -- essays papers

England in 1819 Great poetry is great not because of what it says but because of how it is phrased. Few poems say anything that is very profound; instead, the best of them use language in novel, memorable, and effective ways. Certainly this is true of Percy Bysshe Shelley's famous sonnet "England in 1819." In this poem Shelley describes the depressing, dark, and dirty state of affairs caused in Britain by political, social, and spiritual corruption. However, this poem would not be nearly as effective if it were not for Shelley's powerful use of such classic rhetorical devices as adjectives, alliteration, assonance, imagery, irony, lists, themes, and verbs. One device that Shelley employs very potently is the use of adjectives. The sonnet is full of vivid descriptive words. Such words include "old," "mad," "blind," "despised," "dying" (l. 1), "dull" (l. 2), "muddy" (l. 3), "leech-like" (l. 5), "Golden," "sanguine" (l. 10), "Christless," "Godless" (l. 11), "glorious" (l. 13) and "tempestuous" (l.14). All these adjectives are obviously strong, memorable, and effective. A second technique that Shelley utilizes quite skillfully is alliteration. The poem is filled with the repetition of consonant sounds. For example, alliteration is apparent in such words as "despised and dying" (l. 1), "dregs" and "dull" (l. 2), "mud" and "muddy" (l. 3), "blind," "blood," and "blow" (l. 6), and "starved and stabbed" (l. 7). Shelley's use of this kind of emphasis on consonants makes his phrasing linger in one's ears. A third tactic that Shelley uses very strongly is the use of assonance. The poem includes several repetitions of vowel sound in stressed syllables. Examples of such as... ...empt" (l. 10), "slay" (l. 10), "burst" (l. 14), and "illumine" (l. 14) are used to describe the terrible situation the country was in. Because verbs are stronger and clearer than adjectives, they make the poem more effective. The choice of depressing verbs gives the intended dark atmosphere of the setting. In this poem Shelley uses rhetorical devices such as adjectives, alliteration, assonance, imagery, irony, listing, repetition, theme, and verb to make his poem memorable and effective. These rhetorical devices make the poem memorable and effective. It is through such techniques that a good poet like Shelley makes his poem powerful. "England in 1918" is a superb example of how it is possible to express one's views effectively through a poem. The reason the poem is effective is not because of what it says but because of how it is phrased. England in 1819 Essay -- essays papers England in 1819 Great poetry is great not because of what it says but because of how it is phrased. Few poems say anything that is very profound; instead, the best of them use language in novel, memorable, and effective ways. Certainly this is true of Percy Bysshe Shelley's famous sonnet "England in 1819." In this poem Shelley describes the depressing, dark, and dirty state of affairs caused in Britain by political, social, and spiritual corruption. However, this poem would not be nearly as effective if it were not for Shelley's powerful use of such classic rhetorical devices as adjectives, alliteration, assonance, imagery, irony, lists, themes, and verbs. One device that Shelley employs very potently is the use of adjectives. The sonnet is full of vivid descriptive words. Such words include "old," "mad," "blind," "despised," "dying" (l. 1), "dull" (l. 2), "muddy" (l. 3), "leech-like" (l. 5), "Golden," "sanguine" (l. 10), "Christless," "Godless" (l. 11), "glorious" (l. 13) and "tempestuous" (l.14). All these adjectives are obviously strong, memorable, and effective. A second technique that Shelley utilizes quite skillfully is alliteration. The poem is filled with the repetition of consonant sounds. For example, alliteration is apparent in such words as "despised and dying" (l. 1), "dregs" and "dull" (l. 2), "mud" and "muddy" (l. 3), "blind," "blood," and "blow" (l. 6), and "starved and stabbed" (l. 7). Shelley's use of this kind of emphasis on consonants makes his phrasing linger in one's ears. A third tactic that Shelley uses very strongly is the use of assonance. The poem includes several repetitions of vowel sound in stressed syllables. Examples of such as... ...empt" (l. 10), "slay" (l. 10), "burst" (l. 14), and "illumine" (l. 14) are used to describe the terrible situation the country was in. Because verbs are stronger and clearer than adjectives, they make the poem more effective. The choice of depressing verbs gives the intended dark atmosphere of the setting. In this poem Shelley uses rhetorical devices such as adjectives, alliteration, assonance, imagery, irony, listing, repetition, theme, and verb to make his poem memorable and effective. These rhetorical devices make the poem memorable and effective. It is through such techniques that a good poet like Shelley makes his poem powerful. "England in 1918" is a superb example of how it is possible to express one's views effectively through a poem. The reason the poem is effective is not because of what it says but because of how it is phrased.

Oxfam Operational Management

The purpose of this assignment is to apply the main theories within operations management to summaries and critically evaluate the main issues facing Sofas within the following strategic and operational contexts: l. Globalization and International management II. Environmental management Ill Social responsibility lb. Technology v. Knowledge Management Figure 1 The Operations Strategy and Management model (Slack, N. , Chambers, S. , Johnston, R. , 2007) 1 Sofas Background Information The name Sofas comes from the Oxford Committee for Famine Relief, founded in Britain in 1942 during Second World War.Sofas International was formed in 1995 by a group of independent non-governmental organizations. Sofas is an independent organization affiliated to Sofas International, a global confederation of 14 independent Sofa's (www. Spam. Org). In 2010 Sofas was working in 99 countries. Sofas works directly with communities to find and influence solutions to poverty and injustice (www. Sofas. Org). So fas are working on development programs, emergency work and research. In 1948 Sofas opened its first charity shop. Sofa's current network of more than 830 charity shops are run by about 22000 volunteers and are a key source of income.Orders can be made by mail or over the Internet. Sofas teamed up with Yahoo! (Carroll, 2010) Sofas has an annual expenditure of US $700 million and employs around 1300 staff, of whom around 700 are based in Oxford, I-J, ND the others, together with about 1 500 locally recruited staff, work overseas. Sofas is best known for its work in emergency situations providing humanitarian aid where it is needed. However much of Sofa's work continues after the initial response. Sofa's Strategic plan 2007/10 underlines five main objectives (www. Sofas. Erg): The right to a sustainable livelihood The right to basic social services The right to life and security The right to be heard The right to equity (gender and diversity) The above describes Sofa's mission stateme nt â€Å"A world without poverty and equal human rights for all people†. The Although all operations are similar, they all transform input resources into output products and services, they do differ (Slack, 2007). The Four Vs. – Volume, Variety, Variation and Visibility, have implications for the cost of product, or in case of Sofas service, to its beneficiaries.As Sofas is a non profit organization and the interest is provide improvement of lives and fast response to natural and political disasters in Third World Countries, it could be said that their success could be measured in how well tenet support Ana Involvement rennet's on loveliness AT tense teen are knelling o. The Volume for Sofas is measured by the improvement of living conditions, by how many people have an access to clear water or how many lives are saved after a natural disaster. Sofas is involved in many projects therefore the Variety should be seen as high.However due to the nature of the work Sofas do es and the help they provide, the variety demands high level of flexibility from Sofas, its employees and volunteers. In the case of a charity the Variation should be relatively low. And many charity organizations are concentrating on to one issue only. However Sofas is known for heir involvement in many projects and can offer help in various situations, natural disasters, political rows in countries of the third world, where many people are being denied a decent living.As well as providing safe water projects around the world, building schools and many others. Sofa's Variation is therefore higher than many other charities but still would not be consider high as in a profit organization. Due to the nature of raising money for their operations via their shops, appeals and various projects, the Visibility of Sofas and its people is high. The argument could be hat Sofas has more back office staff than front office and therefore the visibility is not as high. However such an argument ca n be dismissed based on the overall focus on Sofas.The contact with people is necessary for the nature of the business. Sofa's 4 Vs. summarizes in Figure 2. [pick] Figure 2 The 4 ‘v†s module in relation to Sofa's operations Operations performance objectives There are five basic performance objectives which apply to all type of organizations (Slack, 2007). These objectives specifically relates to a basic tasks of satisfying customer requirements. Every organization has stakeholders who have a high interest in its operations. As per Slack Sofa's stakeholder groups can overlap.Sofa's volunteers who work in charity shops could also be employees as well as customers. Therefore a not for profit organizations who are influenced by more complex factors which they can not affect such as natural disasters, has to even more so define its operation's role, position and operation strategic objectives to show their stakeholders how they perform. The five objectives are quality, speed, dependability, flexibility and cost. Sofas aims to deliver high quality in each situation and project they are involved in.The quality s measured by the satisfaction of customers however in Sofa's case the satisfaction is not going to be reflected the same way as satisfaction with product or service of companies who produce these for profit. Sofa's customers are in many cases highly satisfied with a bare minimum of life standards and the help they receive. However quality coo a De considered Trot ten way AT Improvements AT humans' lives and livelihoods and its sustainability. Speed is something that is of a very high importance for Sofas. To respond fast to natural and other disasters is number one priority.The speed of the response could mean the difference between life and death. However improvement of women's rights and Sofas project of bringing education to all is anything but a speedy as the importance is to stabilize the changes first to make sure they are going to be permane nt improvements to their lives. For Sofas stakeholders dependability is a very important factor. For the people who receiving the help and support it is important to know that the support will be there and it is not Just a promise. For the volunteers and people who donated it is important to see that changes are being made and support is being given.Flexibility is the highest priority. Sofas is not only involved in various projects around the world but also needs to be able to change their plans and actions to respond fast to many situations such as political changes within the country where they providing their support. Or in the case of natural disaster, Sofas needs to be ready to respond fast, to provide basic supplies for humanitarian support. Their employees and volunteers need to be flexible to react quickly to safe lives and livelihood. Operations have to change at short notice.Even the charity shops which are mostly stable operations have to be flexible and sometimes change their operations to respond to situation in the world. In the case of natural disasters the nature of donations needs to change, not only cash donations are required but food, clothes or blankets. Cost is a very difficult measurement for a charity organization. It is important to keep its costs down to achieve more with the money raised however in many situations it is not about keeping the cost low but about saving lives, providing fast response and help when its needed and this can drive cost up.With natural disaster it is not important the amount invested in to the help but the help that is provided. When people loose everything even a little amount of help and support is highly appreciated and therefore the cost is not of a high importance. Figure 3 Sofa's Polar Diagram The role of operations Operations management can make or break any business (Slack, 2007). Hayes and Wheelwright's four stages of operations contribution evaluate the role and contribution of the operations funct ion (Slack, 2007). Sofa's operations are at stage 4.Sofas does compete with other charities for donations and volunteers. However, where other charities offering food and money, Sofas offers lives stock, seeds, smelter, coeducation anon T s well as money winner teen are name (www. Sofas. Org). Sofas gets involved in peoples live for longer to assure long term improvements in their livelihoods. Figure 4 The four stage model of operations contribution. Operations Strategy Operations strategy concerns the pattern of strategic decisions and actions which set the role, objectives and activities of the operations (Slack, 2007).Sofa's operation strategy is to reduce and eliminate the causes of poverty and suffering (www. Sofas. Org). As an objective the Sofa's 5 Aims are used to build the operations strategy, the top down perspectives. The bottom up perspective is reflected in improvement for the next project Sofas gets involved as the knowledge management aspects will affect how the next operation is managed. Market requirements are reflected in the numbers of people Sofas has helped to rebuild their lives. However for a not for profit organization the strategy is more complex and is affected by The Operations Challenge.Figure 5 The four perspectives on operations strategy The Operations Challenge Although operations management is seen by some as being concerned largely with the routine aspects of business, it is in fact at the very forefront of almost all equines challenges (Slack, 2007). There are many changes that the operations management needs to understand, be concerned with and adjust to. The challenges and changes in the world can be seen as a positive change which helps with Sofa's 5 Aims detailed in section 1. 1 and in appendix 1 .These are highly affected by many challenges and operations managers should be familiar with Sofa's Aims and developments to be able to apply appropriate strategies. 1 Globalization With opening of new international market were o pened many new opportunities for operations managers to develop supplier relationships (Slack, 2007). Important for Sofas as the need to have a fast and affordable access to supplies all around the world, to be able to respond fast is high on their operations strategies. The Ethical globalization affects Sofa's political affluence and it works well with ethical approaches.Acknowledging shared responsibilities for addressing global challenges and affirming that our common humanity does not stop at national borders (Slack, 2 Corporate Social Responsibility In a modern business there is more and more pressure on to the general well-being of society. Economic development on a global level cannot be separated from questions of social Justice and from ecological stability (Discarding, cited in Walleye, 2008). It is a nature of Sofas business to assure that all humans are being treated with respect and as equals.As per Sofas, nobody should compromise on their human rights. Sofas provides a ssistance and protection to ordinary men, women and children caught up in conflict or natural disasters (www. Sofas. Org). It is Sofa's believe that all people have social, economic, political and civil rights as well as rights under humanitarian law (www. Sofas. Org). Not only Sofas provides provisions of eater, sanitation and hygiene promotion they also lobby governments and the international community to live up to their responsibilities to protect civilians (www. Sofas. Org).However it needs to be considered that what might be unremarkable in one country ethical framework could be regarded as highly dubious in another's (Slack, 2007). 3 Environmental Responsibility Environmental Responsibility is getting on to an agenda of any organization. Sofas is highly involved in campaigning for Climate Change. During 2010 over 1. 5 million people in 35 countries attended Climate Hearings organizes by Sofas and its ratters (www. Sofas. Org). These are organizes by Sofas to voice directly to global policy environments the reality of Global warming and its effects on to those living in poverty.Sofas is committed to reduce their carbon footprint by setting and delivering yearly targets (www. Sofas. Org). 4 Technology Technology has impact of some sort in almost every area of operations management (Slack, 2007). Internet has the biggest impact on how the business operates. Sofas improved their engagement with their supporters due to internet and other digital communications (www. Sofas. Org). This has resulted in to increase in online donations to over E. Mm in 2010. Sofas therefore invests more of their resources in to improvement of their website.Technology is also changing the ways Sofas International works. Introduction of Single Management Structure is a big step which wouldn't be possible without constant changes in technology. Supply network is also more simple and faster due to new technologies. Technology has a huge impact on to Sofas operations and the speed the y can reach people in need. 5 Knowledge Management Knowledge is rich, interpretative and often value-laden. In very complex operations recesses, It may De almost Impossible to make ten totality AT Knowledge concerning processes fully and entirely explicit (Slack, 2007).Sofa's operations the explicit knowledge is not possible. Sofas knowledge management is build over time and is a result of Sofas experience in various projects and responses to different situations. Sofas therefore employs the Tacit knowledge. Tacit knowledge may be observed and accumulated over time (Slack, 2007). Sofa's strategies are changing based on their understanding of how the world is changing for poor people and what the best response to it would be (www. Sofas. Erg). Sofas needs to understand these changes and react with agility and effectiveness to maximize their impact on to poor people.By improving knowledge management Sofas improves disaster preparedness and response the main purpose of their business. Being an international organization that responds to human needs anywhere in the world it is highly important for Sofas to have a local knowledge. Supplies, its availability and access to it, are a need for Sofas and the knowledge of local suppliers is strategically important. Sofas is building team of trainers and experts to implement their new system around the oral (www. Sofas. Org).Security of their aid workers a knowledge of political situations and predictions in many parts of Third World countries is necessity. Supply Network Every operation is a part of a larger and interconnected network of other operations. Supply network will include suppliers and customers (Slack, 2007). As Sofas works all around the world and has to be able to respond fast to a natural disaster it has to consider many ways of supply. Design decisions of Sofas supply network are important agenda for its operations and supply managers. Sofas supply planning is very unpredictable.They have a network of sup pliers they working with to make sure they are able to react fast to any natural disaster. However to work with the affected community in a longer term they need to be able to find new suppliers in a very short time period who are closer to the area of disaster and can supply the needs of the situation. Attachment 1 states Sofa's supply policy in detail. In the policy Sofas is not only concentrating on to its supply and demands but also concentrate on to the operations challenges as described in section 4 of this assignment.The nature of Sofa's work means inventory problems. It is not cost efficient to keep a large amount of supply on hold in case of an emergency. Keeping too much could resolve in high cost related to storage. Keeping too little could mean that when there is a natural disaster and speedy response is needed, there is not enough of basic supplies such as water, food and blankets. In 2009/10 Sofas has rolled out new software tool knows as Hellos (www. Sofas. Org) to he lp with delivering the right supplies, in the appropriate amount, at the best cost, on time to the people who need it the most.It will provide a real time overview of what Sofas has, where it is and owe efficiently it can be moved to where it is needed. Conclusions It can De concluded Tanat even tone oxtail Is a not Tort pronto organization teen 00 understand the importance of operational management and strategies and acting upon it. Sofas sets clear strategies and reviews them every year. It acts upon the need of updating their operation strategies. The core business of Sofas operations is help to people who are in a need of help and support. Its 5 aims are stated and in their Annual report Sofas clearly states percentage of charitable expenditure.However looking closely on everything that Sofas was involved in over the 2010 eroded, it is clear that the greater the need the faster the response and the less important the money involved in the initial response are. Sofas has set proj ects over the period of time and with regards to these it is easy to apply operational strategies and management. It is when a natural or political disaster happen that Sofa's operations change in priority. Sofas has to be highly flexible to be able to fulfill its promises to all its stakeholders. The five performance objectives and its importance are changing. They are affected by outside forces.There is a need of constantly improving its services and overview its operations strategies to avoid failure in delivering its promise. Sofas works in constantly changing world therefore the operations within Sofas are not only important to keep its cost down but are important for the delivery and action of Sofas motto together we will end poverty. Recommendations Sofas has dedicated supply policy. However their policy does not specify how Sofas improves on smoothness of their supply and costs involved with it. In 2009 Sofas has introduced a system that unites all its international organiza tions.

The Wrong Idea essays

The Wrong Idea essays (Today) You have a society where every black kid in the country thinks the only way to be successful is through athletics, said Charles Barkley to Sports Illustrated. Therefore, these kids think that the only way to go to college is by being good at a sport. What they do when they get to college is the real question. The past is a good place to see exactly what college student athletes have accomplished. A study was done on the graduation rates of athletes in college. Immediately in this study, black male athletes were spotlighted. Between the years of 1991 and 1994, only seven division one colleges graduated all of their black male basketball players. There were 47 division one colleges that graduated zero black male basketball players in this four year span. They are on what is called the zero percent list. The reasons for not graduating a single black player are unpublished. One of them might have been too much pressure from coaches. Another possible reason is that the players didnt care about their futures beyond basketball. This has been problem has been expressed by players in the past. The reason the black players were asked to go to the schools wasnt because of academic achievements. Coaches recruited these players on scholarships due to their athletic ability. It is interesting to note that between 1991 and 1994, the four national champion teams were not on the list of zero graduation. Duke University, the 1991 and 1992 national champions, graduated 82 percent of all their black male athletes. This shows that successful athletic programs can also include success in the classroom. The rules have become stricter for high school athletes to be eligible for college sports. The minimum required score on the SATs has been raised from 700 to 820. This forced college-recruiting coaches to select athletes who work hard in the classroom as well as ...

buy custom Revolutions in Latin America essay

buy custom Revolutions in Latin America essay Colombia has faced internal conflict for more than forty years. The conflict involves the issue of distribution of natural resources in the country. Areas that attract the fiercest conflict are those with strategic and economic significance. The armed clashes, coupled with implementation of major agricultural projects have resulted to the forceful dispossession of the native people from their lands. The end result has been prime violation of human rights, poverty and obliteration of traditional values among other damages. This article will address the fate of women and the minority groups during the recent conflict in the country. In the book, The Dispossessed, Molano presents testimonies of individual victims of displacement. He lets them give their own stories concerning the way they were displaced along side other thousands of Colombians during the conflict. Most of the displaced people are women who serve as the heads of their homes. He provides a striking glance at the social implications of the Colombian women who are deprived of their basic necessities in life (Molano, 2005, p 135). They were violently forced out of their native homes by military groups. In addition to showing the problems in Colombia, this is a symbolic representation of the state of affairs affecting most of the residents in Latin America. Although the setting of every story is in a different part of the country, they all display some commonality. The common theme is that of desolation and disillusionment For instance, Angela who is one of the narrators in the book expresses her fear towards the end of her extract, My father wants to go backhe says everything is going to be difficult here. But I do not wan to go back. (Molano, 2005, p 77). There is always needless violence which shakes and changes the protagonists in the stories. The violences makes some people to hide in the wilderness where there are no possibilities of stability. Tonito, who is another narrator in the book says I ran until I couldnt hear the screams anymore (Molano, 2005, p 105). No matter the cause of the forceful violence, the victims are always the same: women and minority ethnic groups. Ninfa shows how she was not ready to forgive the military for having killed her husband (Molano, 2005, p 135). Born in Blood and Fire Born in Blood and Fire is a book by John Chasteen, which deals with social class structures and intricate racial diversity. It further explains the political, social and economic developments that resulted to shaping Latin America. Every chapter is broken down into specific theme and the author illustrates how the theme controls and affects the lives of countries in the region and the world at large. One of the major issues that are of great interest is the way governments in Latin America have been in conflict with that of the United States (Chasteen, 2001). He also shows how the people in the high social ladder contributed to the conflict in Mexxico and Cuba. Revolutions in both countries were instigated by prominent and wealthy people in these regions. This was observed during times of crisis and therefore the prominent people took sides with the group that seemed to emerge the winner (Chasteen, 2001). Although the revolutions brought some benefits to the poor, they were hardly taken away from biting poverty. Mexican economy was strong and its political basis was evidently stable. On the other hand, Cuba had been led by one president, Fidel Castro for over five decades after he overthrew dictatorial regime in 1959. Castro was held to socialist movements and he even supported the socialist revolutions happening in the world. Due to his ideologies, the country had lost most of her trading partners and was headed for an economic crisis. During the revolutions in both countries, wealthy residents wanted to have a change of the regimes that were ruling by then (Chasteen, 2001). The United States was allied to the group that pushed for the revolutions. Yes I do agree that revolutions in both countries were instigated by prominent and wealthy people. The book is indeed a comprehensive illustration of stories of despair and hope. It spans across six countries in Latin America depicting the hardships that the residents in respective countries pass through as they progress to attain their socio-economic and political freedom (Chasteen, 2011). It demonstrates the processes of colonization and the quest for economic development as well as political and social impartiality. Buy custom Revolutions in Latin America essay

Static Electricity essays

Static Electricity essays Static electricity is electricity at rest, which is an accumulation of electric charge. This source of energy is the opposite of moving electric charge, known as electric current. It is part of the study of phenomena resulting from electric charge, called electrostatics. Electrostatics is actually one of the foundations of knowledge about electricity. Static electricity is clearly the oldest known form of electricity. The earliest understandings of static electricity date back to experimenting by the Greeks in 600 BC. In fact, the word electricity comes from the Greek word electron, meaning Amber. By the year 1600, many opinions had already been formed about electrostatics, which were later incorporated in the electrostatic force law. One idea was that there are two types of electricity, which were later named positive and negative by Benjamin Franklin. Another idea was that electric samples of the same kind repel each other, and those of different kinds attract each other. This late r was named the law of electrical charges, and is essential to the understanding of electricity. A third idea was that if the distance between electric charges is increased, the force of attraction or repulsion decreases. All matter is made up of very tiny particles called atoms. Atoms are made up of even smaller substances called subatomic particles. Scientific studies have found that some of these subatomic particles are charged with electricity. The electric charges are made up of two kinds - positive and negative. The positively charged particles are called protons, and the particles with negative charges are called electrons. In an atom, the protons are located in the center, or nucleus, and the electrons revolve in a series of orbits around the nucleus. All electric charges are caused by the combined effects of proton and electron charges. The most common cause of static electricity is the rubbing together of two objects of different materials. N ...

What is utilitarianism Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

What is utilitarianism - Essay Example Although, Williams fails to provide an alternative moral hypothesis, the philosopher successfully investigated how utilitarianism and its backers root for untenable beliefs about what rational actions entail. On the other hand, Brandt emphasizes that when evaluating the repercussions of the value of an ethical belief, the society should go beyond mere appraisal of the gains of following set etiquettes and instead embrace selective fulfillment of the requirements. This can only be achieved by leveraging the benefits and negative consequences of such rules: for instance, one should appreciate remorse and other dangers linked to interiorizing fundamental prohibitions in the society. This paper analyzes the ethical arguments presented in â€Å"A Critique of Utilitarianism† by Williams and â€Å"Some Merits of One Form of Rule Utilitarianism,† by Bernard Brandt in their respective articles, in order to establish whose utilitarian philosophy is more effective in today’ s society. Overview of the philosophers’ perceptions Williams provides an exceptional theory, which defines positive action, based on whether it results in a favorable situation triggers a fundamental conflict between an individual’s ethical capacities and that supposedly right action. It is notable that in an effort to employ utilitarianism in balancing and sustaining practicality as an ethical theory, Williams points out the surreptitious incorporation of moral feelings that are not purely utilitarian. For meticulous observation, this confusion often triggers the realization of the weaknesses of a consequentialist approach to understanding satisfactory morality and leadership. By taking into consideration an individual’s ethical inclinations only when they are in tandem with utility implies that there could be a more profound failure to appreciate that such beliefs are often exhibited by the agent’s individual projects and obligations. Therefore, to realize an objective threshold of moral practices, utilitarianism eventually soils an individual’s honor by turning right action immaterial to those initiatives and obligations. Whereas Williams (606-622) perceives that the grounds for the effectiveness of consequentialist moral revolve around to immoral thoughts about moral impacts of the eventualities, Brandt suggests morality is based on moral actions. Brandt argument on utilitarianism contradicts Williams, especially on his suggestion that that the latter’s jump into the impacts of actions occasions the weakening of the individual’s moral standing (Brandt 590-592). In view of this, Williams’ perception of ‘commitment’ as dictated by the party confronted by an ethical dilemma should be based on the actions and not just the consequences. Additionally, in case there is need to maintain honor between individual behavior and minor order projects, it is important to recognize the fact that modern moral theories such as the ones based on consequentialist ideology, this cannot be embedded to individual actions. It is, however, important to recognize that both Williams and Brandt philosophies on ethical actions imply that a certain application is greatly shaped by the actions of an autonomous mor al cause. Significance of the ethical goals and actions Williams (607-615) acknowledges that individuals in the modern world are unaware of the connection between human objectives and behavior. Further, the theorist’s argument brings into focus some fundamental issues such as whether individuals take steps for the sole aim of accomplishing particular objectives. And if so, after realizing an intended objective, it is unclear whether the outcome may inspire the pursuing other successive goals in life, because in general, goals in life are

The Lexus and the Olive Tree Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

The Lexus and the Olive Tree - Essay Example By this, he meant being obsolete and getting phased out. This syndrome led to the loss of productivity economically through wages, productivity, standards of living and competitiveness amongst others. He further expresses globalization by saying one may not know how the globe is revolving unless one understood the new globalization system. The title ‘The Lexus and the olive tree’ is significance in the following ways; The Lexus is a luxurious ultra-modern car and the traditional olive tree is representatives of the current struggle between the effects of the cold war. The inescapable encroaching modernity and the fight by nations to retain their cultural identities without being influenced by the forces of globalization. A Lexus is a luxurious automobile entirely built by a mechanical assembly line whose robotic finishing is used to enhance perfection and quality control mechanisms. The Lexus is an explicit indication of the drive for prosperity. The olive tree is a representation of one’s national culture or identity. The book the ‘Lexus and the Olive tree’ argues that nations are supposed to put emphasis on privatization of their economies as well as adjusting their Government policies to streamline with the global strategies for globalization. The Lexus and the olive tree are elemen ts in the post -cold war period where countries strive on building and developing their economies while other nations are fighting for cultural identity through the cold war. This means that the world is facing two struggles, the urge to grow and prosper symbolic of the Lexus and the feeling to retain cultural traditions and identity symbolized by the olive tree. The balance between following the Lexus as well as the olive tree is quite difficult, and both can’t be adhered to at the same time. Culture and identity conforms one to old age political policies which cannot allow for

Nike (Training and Development) Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Nike (Training and Development) - Research Paper Example The success of Nike in the industry has driven most research into the training and development processes that the company employs. In most of these research studies, the company’s culture in Nike has been pointed out as a key cornerstone in the training process of the company. In perspective, the corporate culture of the company contributes a great deal to the quality of employees that the company gets in any recruitment process, and the way in which they develop ton match the requirements of the company. In addition, it studies note that more than ever, most intellectuals in marketing and other fields desire to work for the company, notably because the brand has a unique place in the market, dressing even the most elite performers in the athletics field. What is unknown to many however is the corporate culture which the employees breathe and work from, that is the main foundation of the learning and training in the company. At the company’s headquarters in Portland, it is easy to note that every building in the compound is named after a famous athlete that the company associates with (Donnelly 44). For example, the name of Michael Jordan, one of the most famous basketball players in history stands tall in one of the buildings, to whom Nike designed the first running shoes with a sponge in their soles. Further, the name of Mia Hamm, one of the most famous women footballers in history stands in the Nike Campus, to whom the company designed various sports shoes as well as the outfit for most of the games she played. In perspective, there are more than twenty excellent athlete names in the Nike College, which builds the Nike campus with a unique competitive spirit, that enables the company’s employees to grow, get inspired and work towards maintaining the greatness of the company. Further, Nike commits itself to enable the top management to be instruments that facilitate the company’s growth. The leaders in the company are trusted to pr ovide training and learning opportunities to employees and senior managers in order to bring out the talents and capabilities that lie within them. This involves engaging the staff in a way that helps them to achieve quality and produce better output in their capacities, which may be termed as talent multiplication (Goldman, and Papson 61). Thus, the company aims at bringing the best out of their workforce through training and development of the leaders in the hierarchy of management. In addition, the company’s major headquarters in the world is endowed with state of the art gym facilities, designed for use by the employees of the company. For example, the headquarters in Oregon has adequate training facilities, that the employees attend fitness classes, perform various running exercises and bike racks, on which the employees can spend their evenings or lunch breaks practicing. The company’s human resource manager alleges that this enables the employees to live in a Ni ke Spirit, and enables the company to maintain employees who are passionate about sports and the company’s products. Nike employees therefore constitute of a team of persons who care about sports and the company benefits by instilling a culture of sports, that encourages the employees to learn more in their fields of competence in respect to the

Detailed Analysis of Common Law Cases Assignment

Detailed Analysis of Common Law Cases - Assignment Example Boots Cash Chemists (Southern) Ltd. [1953] 1 QB 401. In this case, the court held that a seller of pharmaceuticals in a shop is not making a valid offer to the customers of these pharmaceuticals, and that, when a customer picks up a pharmaceutical and brings it to the counter, that customer is not making an acceptance. Fisher v. Bell [1961] 1 QB 394 further states that a shopkeeper offering an item for sale is not making a valid offer, but, rather, when the customer presents the item to the cashier, the customer is the one making the offer to buy. The acceptance, in this case, is the act of the cashier taking the customers money. Partridge v. Crittenden [1968] 1 WLR 1204 further provides credence for this view, as, in the Partridge case, the offer of birds for sale was not a valid offer, in part because the storekeeper might be contractually bound to sell items that he might not actually own. This line of cases establishes that Doris did not make a valid offer (rdi.co.uk.com). She put a vase in the window of her shop with a sign stating that the vase was on offer for  £500. Unless she was making a different kind of advertisement where she offered to pay somebody money in exchange for something else, as was the case in Carlill v. Carbolic Smoke Ball Co. [1893] 1 QB 256, the seemingly only exception to the rule that advertisements are not considered offers, then Doris cannot be said to have made a valid offer. Even if Doris was held to have made a valid offer, then Frank cannot be held to have made a valid acceptance, as he offered  £400 for it. He was thus making a counteroffer, because of the â€Å"mirror image rule,† which states that an unequivocal acceptance must mirror the offer exactly, and any deviation made by the offeree to the offeror is a counteroffer (rdi.co.uk.com; Restatement 2d Contracts  §59a).

Exercise Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 1

Exercise - Assignment Example Cognitive linguistics assumes that the interactions of human beings are mediated by the mental informational structures. This is to say that the human beings perceive things or ideas based on how the natural language presents them to the society. In principle, this notion implies that cognitive linguistics is not just a science of language rather it is an experience of the universe as presented by language. The second assumption is that the cognitive linguistic forms an unchangeable part of an innate aspect of the human cognitive awareness. This is to say that the part of the human mind which informs on other things also informs the same human being on the aspects of the natural language. In retrospect, the underlying principle and argument is that the cognitive part of the human brain informs the language patterns as well as other things in the human being (Lee, 2001). For instance, if a term has a specific meaning, it is innate in that form as presented by the language and the mental construction of the same word. Perspective in its aspect and broadest notion refers to an opinion or view which has no absolute meaning or implication. This is to say that a perspective varies from one person to the next based on the preferences of the person or individual inclinations which inspire the person to believe something and dispute others. According to the arguments and ideas put forth by Fillmore on case grammar, it conceptualizes that language is constructed and border within set semantics frames. This is to say that if a concept or a system of ideas is introduced in a text, then the other parts of the ideas would obviously and automatically fit in the text. Similarly, the flawed intuition was based on predicates, arguments and semantic frames. For instance, if a sentences such as Mark opened the opened today. Mark did open the lock using a key. The lock opened. All these three sentences have a

Causal Analysis Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Causal Analysis - Essay Example Thus, economic freedom characterized by an individual's increased autonomy in making decisions regarding his income and an increase in wealth-creating opportunities made available to him; is an important means to achieving political freedom because of its dispersing effect in the concentration of power (Freidman 9). Friedman illustrates this through historical evidence where capitalism, an economic arrangement focused on free markets and economic freedoms, effectively restricted centralized power from abusing its control on the political and civil liberties of citizens (10). Hence, individuals who experience economic freedom through controlling the means of production and owning private property are given a share in the political power of that society, taking power away from the central government. This shift in power structure creates incentives for governments to give in to demands for civil and political liberties, creating the necessary conditions to achieve political freedoms an d democracy (Friedman 11). Economic freedom is therefore a necessary cause of political freedom and democracy.

Detailed Analysis of Common Law Cases Assignment

Detailed Analysis of Common Law Cases - Assignment Example Boots Cash Chemists (Southern) Ltd. [1953] 1 QB 401. In this case, the court held that a seller of pharmaceuticals in a shop is not making a valid offer to the customers of these pharmaceuticals, and that, when a customer picks up a pharmaceutical and brings it to the counter, that customer is not making an acceptance. Fisher v. Bell [1961] 1 QB 394 further states that a shopkeeper offering an item for sale is not making a valid offer, but, rather, when the customer presents the item to the cashier, the customer is the one making the offer to buy. The acceptance, in this case, is the act of the cashier taking the customers money. Partridge v. Crittenden [1968] 1 WLR 1204 further provides credence for this view, as, in the Partridge case, the offer of birds for sale was not a valid offer, in part because the storekeeper might be contractually bound to sell items that he might not actually own. This line of cases establishes that Doris did not make a valid offer (rdi.co.uk.com). She put a vase in the window of her shop with a sign stating that the vase was on offer for  £500. Unless she was making a different kind of advertisement where she offered to pay somebody money in exchange for something else, as was the case in Carlill v. Carbolic Smoke Ball Co. [1893] 1 QB 256, the seemingly only exception to the rule that advertisements are not considered offers, then Doris cannot be said to have made a valid offer. Even if Doris was held to have made a valid offer, then Frank cannot be held to have made a valid acceptance, as he offered  £400 for it. He was thus making a counteroffer, because of the â€Å"mirror image rule,† which states that an unequivocal acceptance must mirror the offer exactly, and any deviation made by the offeree to the offeror is a counteroffer (rdi.co.uk.com; Restatement 2d Contracts  §59a).

Causal Analysis Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Causal Analysis - Essay Example Thus, economic freedom characterized by an individual's increased autonomy in making decisions regarding his income and an increase in wealth-creating opportunities made available to him; is an important means to achieving political freedom because of its dispersing effect in the concentration of power (Freidman 9). Friedman illustrates this through historical evidence where capitalism, an economic arrangement focused on free markets and economic freedoms, effectively restricted centralized power from abusing its control on the political and civil liberties of citizens (10). Hence, individuals who experience economic freedom through controlling the means of production and owning private property are given a share in the political power of that society, taking power away from the central government. This shift in power structure creates incentives for governments to give in to demands for civil and political liberties, creating the necessary conditions to achieve political freedoms an d democracy (Friedman 11). Economic freedom is therefore a necessary cause of political freedom and democracy.

Negative impact Essay Example for Free

Negative impact Essay There is a proven link between the growing human population and the sustainability of the environment. In Florida’s case, the state has one of the highest rates of population growth in the U. S. with a rate of more than 25% over a period of 10 years (1990-2000), and the consumption (and over-consumption) of resources by this ever-increasing multitude has resulted in the degradation of the ecosystem’s health. Aside from this, the products of human consumption (such as wastes) and human activities, have contributed to the upset in the biogeochemical cycle, and consequently, the ecosystem’s demise. For example, the collapse of Florida’s coastal ecosystems has been tied by scientists to overfishing. Wetlands too, are disappearing at an alarming rate. People are also encroaching upon the natural habitat of animals, displacing the native animal population. For instance, this has lead to an increasing number of snakes and alligators in residential areas. What do you consider the greatest positive impact that humans have made in the same area? In Florida, water is a scarce and depleting resource. Because of the state’s high rate of population growth, scientists are estimating that water drawn from the largest potable water reservoir, the Florida aquifer, will run out by the year 2025. The problem has escalated to a critical point that in Central Florida, potable water is not allowed to be used in irrigation. In 2002, Department of Environmental Protection has launched a statewide comprehensive Water Conservation Program for the public’s water supply. This program has garnered a lot of support and publicity from various sectors of society including the media, schools, even business establishments, and has resulted in further research in the area of water conservation and resource preservation.

Impact of Bad Communication on the Patient

Impact of Bad Communication on the Patient Patient’s outcomes and the impact of appropriate consultation carried out by an aesthetic nurse. Introduction Aesthetics is one of the fastest growing specialties of medical practice. Aesthetic nurses play a significant role in delivering aesthetic non-surgical treatments. They administer around 70 per cent of all non-surgical treatment. They typically work in a range of roles within the NHS and the private sector. Aesthetic nurses practise in clinical settings. Their roles span a broad range of task including systematic problem solving and the management of patient requirements. Aesthetic nurses play a key role in patient care pathway and are responsible for the provision of the right information about treatment and products, making diagnoses, creating a care plan and ensuring that patients receive the best treatment. Aesthetic nurses are also accountable for evaluation of patient’s treatment outcomes and progress towards achieving well-being and health (Fry et al., 2011). The management of health problems poses several challenges including having the right skills, attitude, expertise and knowledge to manage patient’s needs. Aesthetic nurses need to possess the right knowledge, communicative and ethical skills to minimise the risk of clinical errors. These aspects are crucial to delivering effective and positive outcomes during the management of patient’s needs. The general patient pathway comprises of an assessment that is carried out by the nurse during a consultation. This step is key to the management of patient risk, health and choices. Ineffective assessment and consultation could result in the wrong treatment prescription with the potential emotional, physical and psychological harm of the patient’s health. In this case study, I will apply Gibb’s reflective model (Jasper, 2003) to describe and present how lack of communication and incorrect treatment could lead to patient’s distress caused by the development of adverse effects following an aesthetic treatment. Case description using Gibb’s approach A 35-year-old woman came in to the clinic complaining of painful, irritated skin on both the right and left side of her face and the forehead. In particular, she reported signs of inflammation around the nasal-labial fold and perioral area, and in the buccal and frontal area. She noticed the problem within a day after receiving an aesthetic treatment at the clinic. She underwent a course of dermal filler injections containing Restylene to reduce the signs of lines and wrinkles in the frontal, buccal and nasal-labial areas. Although she was warned, she may experience some soreness and redness the patient was not aware of the type of active substances in her dermal fillers. She also has not been given a range of options of treatment and she did not receive any leaflets about the after care. She was presented with red, swollen and painful skin in particular during smiling or speaking. The patient came in to the clinic three days after her treatment and she was assessed by her aesthetic nurse. The nurse examined her face and prescribed her 1% hydrocortisone cream with the application of three times a day to the patient’s face for the duration of 7 days. Unfortunately, her symptoms worsened within three days of this treatment and the unhappy and distressed patient went to see a doctor. After careful examination and consultation with the doctor, the patient was diagnosed with a skin infection caused by the treatment she had at the aesthetic clinic. The patient’s skin presented with even greater inflammation characterised by pustules and yellow crusts in the area where the dermal filler injections took place. The doctor prescribed the patient a course of antibiotics taken externally as a cream in the form of Bactroban three times daily and Clarithromycin 200 mg 4 times a day. The course of antibiotic treatment lasted 7 days resulting in positive outcomes for the patient. During the patient’s visit to the doctor, I took part in the consultation, ex amination and medical history assessment. I reflected on my practice trying to identify the signs and symptoms that I missed to correctly diagnose this patient. I realised that perhaps I did not understand fully what the patient was feeling and therefore, misdiagnosed the risk of her signs and symptoms. I realised that effective risk assessment is crucial to correct diagnosis and treatment prescription as well as management of quality patient care. What is more, I did not give the patient enough information about the after care and did not ask to pay attention to possible signs of possible adverse effects. Evaluation The case study described above shows an example of negligence in clinical aesthetic practice. It underlies common mistakes health care practitioners make when consulting and prescribing products and treatments. To avoid negative practice it is crucial to identify the cause of the problem, how the symptoms developed and what steps can be taken to avoid the problem. Reflective practice and the right consultation between patients and health care professionals are valuable tools for effective treatment management and provision of high quality care (PMETB, 2008). It is evident that in the case study described above the aesthetic nurse failed to inform the patient about the choice of products and their possible side effects. Today’s patients need to be fully informed about the chemical composition of the products and their effects on their physical health. This is very important especially that today’s health care aims to address patient’s physical, emotional, psychological and well-being needs. As the patient was not presented with options followed by informed instructions, the patient was not able to make the right decision concerning which products she should have chosen. Whilst dermal fillers are not legally regulated and are accepted as harmless (MHRA, 2009), evidence suggests they may lead to health complications (Funt and Pavicic, 2013). For example, intra-arterial dermal filler injection with hyaluronic acid might lead to extensive injury of the tissue and necrosis (Delorenzi, 2014). Other products such as Juvederm Ultra may also lead to local inflammation, formation of nodules, tissue damage, and necrosis and other adverse reactions (Allergan, 2010). Common clinical symptoms following hyaluronic acid injections include skin blanching, delayed refilling of the capillaries, discolouration of the skin, livedo reticularis that might be followed by more adverse symptoms such as formation of blisters and tissues damage (Delorenzi, 2014). Prompt recognition of these signs and symptoms by the aesthetic nurse are the mainstays of effective treatment. The effective treatment at an early stage would involve prescription of hyaluronidase, administration of anti-inflammatories such as oral acetylsalicyclic acid (aspirin) and topical occlusion with nitropaste. Warm compresses and vigorous massage to affected ar ea can also help to minimise stress (Delorezni, 2014). Meticulous technique during the dermal filler injection could prevent the above adverse effects. Therefore, patients should be informed about the types of products and their respective composition and possible adverse reactions. Aesthetic nurse plays a key role in the provision of this information and after care. In particular, patients can be empowered by receiving the right information about the after care and should be alarmed to keep an eye on any possible adverse effects (Cohen, 2008). Early identification of any adverse effects generally results in lower negative health impacts. All nurses should follow the guidelines set out by the Nursing and Midwifery Council as described in Standards for medicine management (NMC, 2011). This highlights that communication between the nurse and the patient is extremely important in minimising risk following aesthetic treatments as well as provision of high quality patient care and lawful practice. Analysis This case study highlights an example of aesthetic nurse negligence, where firstly, she failed to inform the patient about the possible consequences of the products and treatment she had, secondly, she did not provide the right after care and thirdly, failed to diagnose her symptoms correctly after the treatment. She misdiagnosed patient’s symptoms as an inflammatory reaction rather than infection and therefore, prescribed the wrong treatment of 1% hydrocortisone cream to treat the symptoms. The nurse failed to carry out a correct assessment and examination and failed to address the health symptoms adequately according to the guidelines developed by National Prescribing Centre (Courtney and Griffiths, 2010). The guidelines follow principles of good practice recommending considerations for the patient including a thorough medical examination, choice of appropriate treatment, and prescription of correct drugs for the respective symptoms. 1 % hydrocortisone cream was inadequately prescribed because it is not the right treatment to alleviate symptoms of infection. What is more, its immunosuppressing properties could worsen the symptoms and increase the predisposition to infection (JFC, 2011). The right treatment should have been prescription of antibiotics according to the guidelines for the treatment of skin infections set out by the British Association of Dermatologists (BAD, 2008). The treatment of a topical cream in the form of Bactroban three times daily and Clarithromycin 200 mg 4 times a day was confirmed by the doctor at a later stage and resulted in improved outcomes for the patient’s symptoms. If the symptoms were identified and diagnoses at an earlier stage, the patient could have been just treated with the topical form of antibiotics. However, due to the advanced form of inflammation oral administration of antibiotics was also prescribed. Effective consultation and accurate diagnosis by the aesthetic nurse could have prevented unnecessary distress to the patient. A meticulous technique used by the aesthetic clinician during dermal filler injections could have prevented development of the adverse effects all together. Conclusion and action plan The rapidly growing range of non-surgical treatments and products including dermal fillers for the use in aesthetic soft tissue augmentation has benefits to both patients and physicians, but as indicated in this case study, as the number of products grows, the number of complications is also likely to expand. There are a number of steps that can be taken to avoid errors in aesthetic nursing practice. Communication at the right time with the patient as well as written advice may help empower patinet’s choices over the types of products and treatments that are most suitable to them. Today, patients have access to information through the means of internet and expect to be well informed about all possible complications associated with the use of aesthetic products. It is the role of the nurse to make sure patients have the right information at the right time. The information about the side effects and adverse reactions of the aesthetic products is available on many of the pharmace utical companies’ websites. Companies such as Allergan, Merz and Galderma usually provide detailed protocols and guidelines to practitioners about their products. They even provide templates for taking demographic and medical history notes, treatment guidelines, and flyers containing all the information patient needs to know about pre and post-care and possible adverse reactions. It is recommended that aesthetic centres develop their own standards of care so that their patients can be informed well. The above strategies can be easily deployed to minimise the incidence and impact of complications associated with dermal filler injections. Knowledge about the products and potential adverse effects and their risk management will enhance the use of the products and influence good aesthetic nursing practice. For optimum outcomes, aesthetic clinical practitioners should have good knowledge of the anatomy of facial structures; the prospective characteristics of the wide range of derm al fillers; their implications, contraindications, beneficial effects and setbacks; and strategies to prevent and avoid possible complications. Continuing professional development is a good way to keep up-to-date with the latest scientific findings and allows engagement with other professionals in the field to develop optimum treatment options and management. Poor practice should always be reported to ensure best outcomes for the patients in the future (NMC, 2011). Overall, quality care that patients receive depends on accurate diagnosis and prescription of drugs and treatment that involves communication skills, compassion, and care from healthcare professionals as well as knowledge, experience and expertise that is necessary to make correct diagnoses. Effective management of patient clinical risk and learning from reflective practice leads to the provision of high quality care to patients at the right time in the right place and satisfied patients. References Allergan (2010). Juvederm Ultra 4. Summary of Product Characteristics. Pringy: Allergan. Cohen, J., L., (2008) Understanding, avoiding, and managing dermal filler complications. Dermatol Surg. 34 Suppl 1:S92-9. . Courtney, M., Griffiths, M., (2010) Independent and supplementary prescribing. An essential Guide. 2nd Ed. Cambrdige. Cambridge University Press. Delorenzi, C., (2014) Complications of injectable fillers, part 2: vascular complications. Aesthet Surg J. 4(4):584-600. Fry, S., T., Veatch, R., M., Taylor, C., R., (2011) Case Studies in Nursing Ethics, Jones and Bartlett Learning, 4th Ed. Funt, D., Pavicic, T., (2013) Dermal fillers in aesthetics: an overview of adverse events and treatment approaches. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 12;6:295-316. Jasper, M., (2003). Beginning Reflective Practice. Cheltenham. Nelson Thornes. Joint Formulary Committee (2011). British National Formulary 61. London. British Medical Journal Group and Pharmaceutical Press. Medicines and Healthcare product regulatory agency (MHPRA) (2009). Borderlines with Medical Devices. London. MHRA. Nursing and Midwifery Council (2011) Remote prescribing and injectable cosmetic medicinal products. London, NMC. Postgraduate Medical Education and Training Board (PMETB), (2008), Patient’s role in healthcare. The future relationship between patient and doctor. General Medical Council.

porcupine :: essays research papers

The word porcupine comes from the Latin words â€Å"porcus spina,† meaning â€Å"pig spines†. The porcupine is a slow-moving, peaceful rodent. They are also vegetarians and mostly nocturnal. Their scientific name, Erethizon, means to "irritate with back." The Porcupine is the second largest of all rodents. It has a small head, large, chunky body with a high arching back and short legs. Its head and body are 25 to 40 inches long, with long, thick, muscular tail growing as long as 8 inches. It weighs from 10 to 40 pounds. Long, yellowish hairs cover the front half of its body while up to 30,000 quills are placed among the dark, coarse hairs of the back and tail. These quills are the most distinguishing characteristic of the Porcupine. Actually modified hairs, the black-tipped, yellowish quills are stiff, barbed spines about 3 inches long that can be easily barbs once embedded in another animals' flesh. The Porcupine's feet have 4 toes on the forefeet and 5 on the hind feet all with long, curved claws and small pads on the bottom. The porcupine's undersides are soft and vulnerable. Porcupine babies are called kittens. The porcupine lives in all the North American desert regions, and the entire west, north to Canada. It lives in wooded areas ,in light marshlands and in deserts. Porcupines are vegetarians. In the Spring they feed on leaves, twigs and green plants. In Winter, they chew through the outer bark of fir, hemlock, aspen and pines trees to eat the tender layer of tissue below. Sometimes, they will completely chew threw, and thus kill, trees. They may also gnaw used ax handles, canoe paddles and other items for the salt and oil they contain. The two large, front gnawing teeth continue to grow as long as the Porcupine lives. When threatened, the North American Porcupine places his snout between his forelegs and spins around presenting its rear to the enemy. If attacked, contrary to popular belief, the Porcupine does not throw its quills; instead, it drives its tail against the assailant and dozens of quills detach easily from the skin to remain embedded in the attacker.

Bonds and The Bond Market Essay -- essays papers

Bonds and The Bond Market Given today's uncertain economy, many people are taking time to examine various options for their financial future. Different types of investments are investigated and bonds are one of the more popular choices considered. Many of the same people who talk about investing in bonds, however, do not fully understand them nor where they place in the economy. Many individuals believe that they should simply buy a bond and wait until it matures before cashing it in. These people fail to realize that they may be losing a lot of money due to the fluctuation of bond prices. At some point it may be more profitable for them to sell their bond than to keep it until the payment date is reached. There are many people who do not understand what bonds really are. A bond is an agreement between two separate entities. One of these bodies gives, to the other, use of their money for a period of time and, in return, may receive a "bond". The bond issuer agrees to a fixed rate of return which he will pay the supporting person or business. This fixed rate of return is an amount, in percentages, which is paid at regular intervals until some future specified time ( the "maturity date"). Upon reaching the maturity date, one's original investment is returned to them. As previously mentioned, bonds are one of the more popular types of financial investment in today's economy. There are many reasons why people invest in bonds. For example, if one chooses a stable and profitable bond, it will provide a steady source of income through interest payments during the lifetime of the bond. As well, the risk when investing in a bond is considerably less than for most other forms of investment. The bond does not, for instance, experience the volatility of a stock on the stock market, like many other forms of investment do. Also, in instances where the issuer fails to pay the principal amount back to the bond holder, legal recourse is available. Furthermore, in cases of bankruptcy within large corporations with stock holders, bond holders take priority and are ... ...onsequently the prices of previously purchased bonds decrease. If you are able to hold onto your bond until the maturity date is reached, temporary changes in interest rates will not affect your financial investment; however, if you need to sell the bond before the marked maturity date, you might have to accept LESS than what you paid for it. This volatility can work to your advantage too, because it is possible that your bond could be worth more at the time you decide to sell. This is why it is important to keep up to date on bond prices. You may be able to make money by simply selling your bond before it's maturity date. In conclusion, I would suggest that bonds are a wise venue for anybody wanting to financially invest in different corporations or governments. I would caution, however that when selecting a bond, one should seek the guidance of an experienced investor. By choosing a bond that is right for you and your lifestyle, you have the potential of increasing your profits greatly and going home wealthier and happier.

Marketing – Chanel, Nike, Hot Topic

1. Within the United States, especially in Southern California, an individual's appearance is crucial because it is used to make a first impression. A person is judged by what they wear and how they look. For example, it is probable that many people would perceive a person wearing ratty clothes as uneducated and irresponsible while a person looking pristine in a designer ensemble is assumed to be intelligent and successful. In every city, there are multiple fashion brands with different styles and ranges of apparel and accessories.Every season, new styles and designs are created which influence society. It appears as if more types of clothing exist than the actual number of people. With so many different alternatives of fashion, the fashion industry is trying to please too many customers with variety. There are currently various styles to choose from, and the clothes people wear categorize or label them long before they realize it. The three fashion brands that will be analyzed exten sively are Chanel, Nike, and Hot Topic. These brands have apparel but are completely different in their target audience.Chanel is a prestigious high-fashion brand; Nike is a popular athletic line; Hot Topic is musically and artistically edgier with a smaller target audience between the three. With these apparel brands, a person wearing each would be labeled or even stereotyped. One wearing a Chanel’s 2012 Spring/Summer ready-to-wear designer outfit with a white jacket, lambskin dress with pearls, and a glass pearl belt would be labeled as rich, successful, and intelligent. Another wearing Nike running apparel consisting of a shirt, shorts, and footwear is someone athletic and always on the go.An individual in a Hot Topic black graphic music t-shirt with plug piercings would be stereotyped as â€Å"Goth†, tough, or edgy. 2. 2. | | | Geographic| * Located at tourist hot-spots * Found in shopping malls or shopping streets * Fashion Capitals * Where social status is import ant * Higher standard costs of living * North America: U. S. A, Mexico, Canada * Asia * Europe * Middle East * Oceania * South America| * Located in areas with daily physical activity * Near sports-oriented regions * Nike stores found in shopping malls or its brand is found in multiple athletic ear stores * United States * Europe * Canada * Africa * Australia * India * Indonesia * Malaysia * Middle East * New Zealand * Philippines * Singapore * United Kingdom| * This brand is mostly geared to the style of North America where it originated. * Found in shopping malls * United States * Puerto Rico * Ontario * Suburban living| Chanel’s headquarter is located in Paris, France where the fashion brand originated. The store is located worldwide near tourist attractions. The main travel destination that people choose to plan their vacation is where a Chanel store is mostly likely to be found.The idea is that people who travel to hot-spots tend to be upper middle or upper class, so the y have sufficient funds to purchase the Chanel brand. Chanel is one of the top designer brands known globally, so it is located in fashion capitals: New York City, Paris, Milan, Rome, China, Los Angeles, Miami, etc. Nike’s headquarter is located in Washington County, Oregon. This athletic brand is one the top sports line. Its stores are located globally and more widespread compared to the other two brands. Also, Nike brand products can be found in multiple athletic equipment stores: Sport Chalet, Finish Line, etc.Nike is one of the most common sports brands that it is stocked in any department store with a small section for athletic wear: Nordstrom, Macys, Bloomingdales, etc. It is found in areas where physical activities are part of daily routines. All parts of the world take part in sports, which can be seen through the Olympics and the country’s own specific sport. Hot Topic’s headquarter is in Industry, California. The style of this brand is geared towards A mericans which is why stores are only located in various areas of North America. They are mostly located in suburban shopping malls where the younger demographic spends their free time. | | | Demographic| * Age: * 30-60 years * Gender: * Female * Social Status: * Upper Class * Annual Household Income: * at least $125,000 * Ethnic: * Caucasian * European * Asian American * Family Life Cycle: * Young single * Young married without children * Middle-aged without children * Middle-aged without dependent children| * Age: * 8-50 years * Gender: * Male * Female * Social Status: * Middle Class * Upper Class * Annual Household Income * at least $50,000 * Ethnic: Widespread among diverse groups * Family Life Cycle: * Young single * Young married or divorced with/without children * Middle-aged married or divorced with or without dependent children| * Age: * 12-20 years * Gender: * Male * Female * Social Status: * Middle Class * Annual Household Income: * $50,000-$100,000 * Ethnic: * Caucasian * Asian American * Hispanic American * African American * Canadian * Family Life Cycle: * Young Single| Chanel’s customers range between thirty to sixty years old.It only has apparel for older women because they are typically upper class with an annual household income of at least $125,000. Since Chanel is an expensive designer brand, not many ethnic groups are associated with it. The main ethnic groups are European, Caucasian, and Asian American. Europeans and Americans have higher household incomes, so they are able to afford the high prices. They’re young and single, young married without children, middle-aged without children, and middle-aged without dependent children, so they have more money for luxuries because they have no dependents.Nike has a wider spectrum of customers from the age of eight to fifty years old. Females and males of all different ages take part in some sort of physical activity or exercise. Nike products are of quality, so their product line i tems vary in price; therefore, anybody of middle or upper class can afford it on a household income of at least $50,000 annually. This brand is global, so it targets a variety of diverse ethnic groups. Its market is for all family life cycles: young who exercise regularly or married with children having to run errands. Hot Topic’s customers are female and male tweens or teens from the age of twelve to twenty.It can be seen that teenagers with less valued education shop there. The style is targeted to young single children, mainly middle class with an annual household income of $50,000-$100,000. It targets mainly those living in North America: Caucasian, Asian American, Hispanic American, African American, and Canadian. | | | | Psychographic| * Personality: * Fashionistas * Opinion Leaders * Motives: * Status * Trendy * Perceived quality * Lifestyles: * High-class lifestyle * Follow trends/styles * Enjoy luxuries * High-maintenance * Materialistic * Geodemographics: * Popular global cities * Fashion apitals * Upper class communities * Upper middle class suburbs| * Personality: * Athletic * Opinion Leaders * Relaxed * Motives: * Trendy * Quality * Exercise * Every-day attire * Reliability * Comfort * Lifestyles: * Health conscious * Sports-oriented * Always on the go * Geodemographics: * Heavily populated communities * Sports-oriented regions * Cities with professional sports teams| * Personality: * Edgy * Punk * Music lover * Motives: * Unique * Contrast Hollywood * Music Preference * Lifestyles: * Opposite of Pop magazines * Prideful to be independent of trends * More about music than societal trends * Geodemographics: * Young communities that appreciate music * Areas unaffected by magazine trends * Middle class suburbs * Regions with less valued education| Chanel targets fashionistas, people who wear high-end and trendy clothes. They are opinion leaders who influence the rest of society. For example, celebrities wear Chanel which creates the brand†™s popularity.Customers shop at Chanel because they want status which is to follow up-to-date trends and styles in today’s society. These people have a high-class lifestyle who enjoy luxuries, are high-maintenance, and very materialistic. Due to Chanel being a high-end brand, one of its key factors is its price because expensive items give people the perception of high quality. Chanel clusters potential customers in popular global cities where the communities are typically upper class. It’s vital for Chanel to target people living in fashion capitals, such as Los Angeles, Miami, Paris, Milan, etc. Nike targets athletes who are health conscious and sports-oriented.Those who also wear Nike are opinion leaders which are why the brand is endorsed by well-known athletes from Michael Jordan to Roger Federer. Aside from athletes, Nike also targets customers for the product’s quality, reliability, and comfort. Nike clusters potential customers in heavily populated com munities, cities with famous professional sports teams, and sports-oriented regions. Hot Topic targets young communities that appreciate music. This brand started off with selling products based on music artists and bands. It targets a younger dynamic group who wants to be unique and despises the typical Hollywood pop culture trends. People with a less valued education tend to shop at Hot Topic which is why the brand is stereotyped for those who are â€Å"punks. † | | | | Benefits Sought| Extreme quality * Social status recognition * Aspirational reference group * Up-to-date on trends * Self-esteem| * Long-lasting quality * Increased training * Improvement as an athlete * Comfort * Aspirational reference group| * To be unique and different * Broadcast their music and art interests * Make a statement against pop culture trends| Chanel is instantly recognized as one of the top leading high fashion designer brands in the world. Due to its expensive prices, people assume it to po ssess prestigious quality before they buy their first item. Aside from quality, the fact that the apparel and accessories are well known to be costly is utilized as a means of social status recognition.Any individual wearing a dress, jacket, or glass pearl belt can be instantly deemed as wealthy or financially well-off. Chanel has been deemed as an extravagant brand which is advertised by models and celebrities. It is found in the majority of fashion magazines which targets customers who want to be up-to-date on trends, so they can boost their self-esteem. From the opinion leaders influencing society, customers purchase from this fashion line because they want to be in the aspirational reference group of high class or celebrity status. Nike is a top athletic brand for apparel, gear, and footwear. Nike’s mission statement is â€Å"To bring inspiration and innovation to every athlete in the world. Due to the brand’s publicity and marketing, it creates a customer percept ion of quality that will last longer than generic sports brands. Along with the public stir of the brand, it targets customers in the aspirational reference group because they want to associate themselves with their favorite athlete or celebrity who wears the product. Aside from the trend, Nike is mainly intended for athletes to increase and improve their training which is why Nike has a product line for each type of sport: running, basketball, tennis, etc. Hot Topic started off trying to be unique and different with the brand’s main focus on music other than typical pop.It first became popular with its t-shirts of multiple rock and metal bands. It is a way for customers, mainly teenagers, to broadcast their love of music. Their mission statement is â€Å"At Hot Topic, we believe music and the arts make everyone's life a whole lot better, so we've decided to enrich kids' lives by enabling them to express themselves musically and artistically! † The brand understands th at there are audiences out there who don’t prefer the pop culture trends, so this is a brand that encompasses and pleases them as well. | 3. The Marketing Mix| | | | | | | | | * Apparel:| * Apparel:| * Apparel:| | * Dresses| * Shorts| * Pants| * Jackets| * Bras| * Shorts| | * Accessories| * Jackets| * Band T-shirt| | * Glass pearl belt| * Hoodies| * Body Jewelry: | | * Footwear:| * Long-sleeve shirt| * Plug earrings| | * Heel boots| * Short-sleeve shirt| * Clothes graphics| | * Brand name| * T-shirts| * Cotton Fabric| | * Brand mark| * Footwear:| * Quality| | * Fabric: | * Running| * Customer Satisfaction| | * Cotton Tweed| * Gear:| * After-purchase service| | * Lambskin| * Socks| * 30 day return policy| | * Coated washed denim| * Customer ability to customize footwear| | | * Glass Pearl| * Quality| | * Quality| * Color| | | * Value| * Brand name| | | * Packaging| * Brand mark| | | * Customer Service| * Fabric| | | * Lifetime warranty by manufacturing defect| * Value * Custom er Service| | | * Customer satisfaction| * Customer Satisfaction| | | | * 30 day return policy| | | | | | | | * Market price * Each article of clothing is at least $1,000 US| * Range in prices * Clearance/Sale Items * Discount deals * Retail store coupons| * Affordable price * Clearance/Sales Items * Discount deals * Regular store deals| | * Rarely discounted| * Outlet warehouses| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | * Fashion magazines| * Magazines| * Music Magazines| | * Celebrity Endorsement| * TV advertisements * TV Shows| * Radio * Internet| | * Celebrity Advertisement| * Celebrity Endorsement| * Sales promotion * Music endorsements| | * Celebrity Events * Award Shows| * Sponsorships * Radio| * Musician/Artist sponsors| | * Fashion Shows| * Sales Promotion| * Music/Art Events| | * TV shows| * Internet| | | * Internet: Subscription| * Sports Events| | | * Beginning of the season unveiling| * Outdoor advertisements| | | * Boutique Window| * Newspapers| | | | | | | | | | * Exclusive Boutique * Extravagant store design| * Shopping Mall * Athletic Store Team * Sold Online| * Shopping Mall * Store has music, darker, artistic theme| | * High-End Shopping Mall| * Warehouse * Outlets| * Warehouse * Sold Online| | * High-income areas| * Trucking| * Outlets| | * Fashion streets| * Air-Mail| * Trucking| | * Air-Mail| * Department Stores| * Air-Mail| | * Boutique Window| * Distribution| * Shelf Placement| | * Shelf Placement:| * Shelf Placement:| * Glass Case Display| | * Near front of store * In plain sight * Not sold online| * Reaching Distance * Middle of the store| * Hanging on racks| | | | | The PRODUCT is the easiest designed strategy in the marketing mix compared to the place, promotion, and price.Chanel’s apparel includes a dress, jacket, belt, and boots. The dress is made out of cotton tweed, lambskin, and precious pearls; the jacket is created from cotton tweed; the heeled boots are coated washed denim. The fabric provides value to customers who believe that they receive extreme quality from their purchase. These high paying customers purchase each of these items for their fabric, instead of going to a generic store full of regular cotton, spandex, and polyester. They desire the feeling of riches when they are covered in beautiful pearls and soft lambskin. Aside from the physical units, the product comes with the brand name and brand mark.In the fashion industry, a person isn’t initially asked about the fabric or the material. They are asked about the brand because a top designer name is seen as prestigious and extravagant which is why the number one fashion question is, â€Å"Who are you wearing? † In the end, fashion is not completely about whether or not an outfit looks good on a person. If the outfit is a brand name, it is put on a higher pedestal than other attire. Along with the ensemble, customer service is a key factor because Chanel clients are loyal. Chanel is popular with upper class clientele who associate themselves with the brand because of its social status; only the wealthy can purchase more than one article of Chanel clothing.The fashion line has excellent customer service to maintain their high clients’ satisfaction before and after their purchase. When purchasing the product, the client also buys a lifetime warranty. However, this warranty only applies to any manufacturing defects or malfunctions. After women enjoy the fabulous customer service and purchase this ensemble, they are given their items in the well-known Chanel packaging. If the clothes were a gift, the store would wrap them in a black box with the white Chanel logo along with tissue paper and white ribbons free of charge. If the clothes were just part of a shopping spree, they will be wrapped in tissue paper and carefully placed in the signature black Chanel shopping bag.All the packaging and added extravagances of the product will be donned with the brand name and brand mark because that is the main reason why women purchase from this fashion line. This Chanel outfit provides women with beauty and grace. Running apparel from Nike includes footwear, socks, shorts, and a shirt. The shoes are made with gel and soft cushion, so it can absorb the shock when a runner’s feet pounds the pavement. A runner can’t have shoes without thick socks. The shorts can either be loose or tight to keep the runner feeling cool and dry. The shirt can be a Dri-fit that keeps the runner warm, cool, comfortable, and dry. With women, some of the shirts come with a bra inside the top.Similar to Chanel, Nike is one of the top leading brands in its athletic department, so athletes purchase the products for the brand name and brand mark. Due to it being a popular brand, it is presumed to have extreme quality which athletes desire to improve their training. Each article of clothing has the brand name and brand mark stamped on it, and each of the footwear has the brand mark largely displayed on all sid es of the shoe. Nike footwear is unique because it enables customers the opportunity to put their own input into the design of their shoe; they can customize their own version with different colors, shapes, and designs. Nike makes sure to provide excellent service in which the employees must be knowledgeable about every product for each type of sport it carries.A customer is able to rely on the employees to consider the client’s best interest. Nike also wants to ensure customer satisfaction which is why it guarantees customers a trial run of the product; if they are not happy with the item after the first couple days of testing them, they can return it. Otherwise, they have 30 day full refund policy. Hot Topic’s outfit is comprised of band t-shirts, pants, shorts, and plugged earrings. The pants and shorts are made from basic cotton or denim. The band t-shirts are partly made of cotton and polyester. The plug earrings are simply plastic. Their customers don’t co nsider the value or quality of the apparel as much as the color or graphics.This brand mainly factors the customers’ appreciation of music, art, and expression which leads to customer satisfaction. Hot Topic provides excellent customer service before and after a purchase. The majority of society stereotypes those who adorn Hot Topic clothes as lazy, dirty, tough, â€Å"Goth†, and punk; however, the employees are approachable and energetic. After a purchase, a customer can go back to the store or browse their website to learn how to care for their purchase: how to properly wash their denim, iron their cotton t-shirts, or clean their leather purchases. Along with the purchase, customers are given a 30 day period to return their items for a full refund. The PRICE is a second factor that sways customers to purchase an item.The Chanel outfit is costly and sold at market price because it is a luxury clothing line. The only way to know the cost of the clothes is to physically walk into any of the boutiques; the prices aren’t displayed on the boutique website. The majority of each article of clothing from Chanel is at least $1,000 US. This outfit targets the wealthy, so they easily have the sufficient funds to purchase these big-ticket items. Due to the customer’s high income, the price of the apparel isn’t of great concern; they only want onlookers to recognize that their clothes are expensive. The brand is rarely, close to never, discounted because it wants to keep its sense of richness.If Chanel were to have discounts, then people of lower status may purchase the items which will discourage the wealthy who don’t want to be associated with that type of people. Therefore, once the market price is set, it is unchanging once the product item arrives at each boutique. The Nike running outfit’s target audience includes those of middle class, so the price is affordable. Since upper class citizens purchase this product as we ll, the prices vary depending on the quality, color, and design of the fabric. For example, mesh running shorts would be cheaper than dri-fit shorts. New products are set at market price for at least the first six months after its arrival in a Nike store or department store.Discounts and sales are offered for the items when there is few supply of it left or when the seasons are about to change. The pieces of this running apparel are also distributed to retail and department stores. These department stores, such as Sports Authority, Sport Chalet, or Finish Line do provide its customers with discount coupons. For example, if they make a purchase of $100 before tax, they can receive $15 off the final total amount. Nike has multiple product items in its product lines, so there is an easiness to determine the price for each. Between the three outfits, Hot Topic is the least expensive because the clothes target a young demographic population who don’t have as much money to spend.Ev en though the clothes are affordable to begin with, the brand always has multiple discounts in store and online. When a new supply of clothes is distributed to the retail stores, the price of clothes that have been there for a couple of months is lowered. There is no such thing as a particular style for each season. Abundant deals for any type of clothing attract tweens and teens who are spending their free time shopping and loitering at local shopping malls with friends and family. Teens appeal to stores with signs for deals, sales, clearance, and discounts; they want the best deals to save their money and allowance. Hot Topic is flexible in determining the price of the products as it acknowledges its young demographic market.A good PROMOTION strategy is vital to increase sales, attract new customers, and maintain frequent shoppers. This entire Chanel wardrobe is pricey because they are promoted as apparel for the rich and powerful. This designer combination of the dress, jacket, b elt, and boots is first previewed at an elaborate fashion show. Chanel executives choose a particular model or celebrity who can display the elegance, beauty, and style of each apparel. After the initial preview of a fashion show, the clothes will be advertised in popular fashion magazines: Vogue, Elle, In-Style, etc. Each of the advertisements has an elegant theme where the models are showing the extravagance and beauty that each piece of clothing and accessory offers.The advertisement's background is typically a fancy setting which captivates wealthy customers. After the initial unveiling at a fashion show, a celebrity may have the opportunity to purchase the outfit before the product is distributed to the boutiques. From this, a celebrity can where this outfit at a celebrity event: award show, charity event, or red carpet event. At all of these events, there is paparazzi and fashion news coverage who ask what the celebrity is wearing and who designed it. These celebrity events ar e widely broadcasted, so thousands of audiences will see the outfit firsthand. After the fashion show and celebrity advertisements, the outfit is be distributed exclusively to the Chanel boutiques worldwide.Due to the outfit being part of the 2012 Spring/Summer collection line, Chanel will promote the outfit by placing the entire ensemble in the store's display window, so people on a shopping spree can see. Typically, the best and new outfits are displayed at the front of the store and each piece article of clothing is placed next to each other on the racks and shelves. Due to Nike having the greater target audience between the three, it promotes the products at a higher rate. A marketing team would promote the outfit by advertising in various magazines, billboards, TV channels, sports events, radio, and online. The visual advertisements in magazines, billboards, TV, and the internet may portray an average person running in the clothes. An average person is used to model the running outfit because it needs to be relatable to the customer.Popular athletes also endorse the product by wearing them daily or in advertisements because customers want to associate or relate themselves to celebrities: Michael Jordan, Roger Federer, Tiger Woods, etc. Beyond the pictures and models, the advertisements include a motivating statement that encourages everybody to be active. These clothes are also advertised online and in newspapers; Nike purchases ad space from newspapers and popular websites, such as Facebook, Yahoo, Twitter, etc. which the majority of their target audience views. The company also puts their advertising statement describing the running apparel and its benefits on popular radio stations, so people can tune in and listen.However, the main promotion strategy Nike has is at sports events. This outfit is geared towards athletes, so the best promotion strategy is to advertise when sports fans or other athletes are watching. The running clothes’ main targe t audience is athletes, so it locates, displays, and advertises itself closest to where all the other athletes are. There are also sales promotions in newspapers, magazines, and on the radio to attract people who want to purchase the items but can’t afford to unless they were at an affordable deal. Hot Topic focuses on artistic expression and a love of music; therefore, it would advertise the outfit in music magazines.This fashion brand’s main attraction is the band t-shirts which is why they are advertised in music magazines, so a band or singer’s fans can buy their t-shirts. Fans want to support and broadcast their love and appreciation of an artist or music group. Hot Topic’s slogan is â€Å"Everything about the music. † which is why it is also promoted on the radio and popular music websites. In order to attracted customers, it would advertise about upcoming sales promotion. A major promoting strategy key is that the clothes have music endorsem ents or musician and artist sponsors. These musicians and artists sometimes take part in the design and style of the clothes; therefore, their fans would be ncreasingly interested to their products. Wherever the particular clothes are placed in the store, the musician, band, or artist would have their name and photo plastered next to the products to capture fans’ attentions. There are also advertisements at music and art events which is where their primary target audiences spend their social time. The demographic is younger in age, so the brand promotes the clothes with constant sales and deals to attract them. These tweens and teens wouldn’t even be able to afford the cheapest item at Chanel. The PLACE or distribution strategy is vital with making the outfits available when and where customers want them.The Chanel outfit is sold exclusively in their boutiques; it isn’t sold in department stores or online. As of September 2010, there are only 310 locations world wide. These Chanel boutiques are only located in high-end shopping malls where the high end customers shop: South Coast Plaza, Beverly Hills Mall, etc. Aside from shopping malls, these boutiques are placed in high-end fashion districts. A woman who spontaneously decides to go shopping would want to go to Chanel where she feels most comfortable and convenient. These stores wouldn’t be placed in low-income cities, such as the Bronx or Compton. The product is only placed in high income cities where its target audience lives.All of the clothes and its accessories are designed and manufactured in Paris, France where its headquarters is located. Once each piece of clothing is manufactured, it is distributed exclusively to each boutique through air-mail. These items are to be handled with care when it is being distributed because a client would not want to pay a high price for a defective item. The Chanel clothes are never in warehouses or outlets because it destroys the luxury aspe ct of the brand. When each of the products arrives in the boutique, it is first placed in the boutique window where customers can see a look of the entire outfit before they enter the store.The boutique window is the place where customers can have an idea of what they could potentially wear, shop, and purchase. It must be decorated lavishly to attract customers and entice them to walk into the store. Due to the extreme quality and benefit perception of the clothes, the store needs to have an extravagant and contemporary design. The outfit is brand new, so it would be placed near the front of the store in plain sight for the customers to have an easy access. The main factor of Chanel is that it has to be placed in high-income areas where its target audience predominantly lives. Nike’s outfit is more affordable and universal, so it is distributed in more diverse areas than Chanel and Hot Topic.Nike has its individual stores placed worldwide; however, the products can also be fo und in department stores, including Nordstrom, Macys, Finish Line, Sports Chalet, etc. Wherever the items are placed, it would be in the athletic or sporting apparel to be easily located. In the Nike stores, there would be an athletic store theme to attract customers who tend to be athletic and active. These products are placed and distributed to shopping malls where these retail stores are mainly located. When it comes to shopping, people of all incomes would most likely go to the nearest shopping mall which is why the Nike running clothes are dispersed throughout different retail stores.Due to Nike having the perception of quality, stores would place its items within reaching distance on the shelves. Department stores would generally place the Nike products in the middle of the store, so customers can also browse other types of brand items as they try to locate the Nike items. The running items are made in countries outside of the United States, so it would need to be air-mailed a nd trucked to various parts of the world. If customers want a better deal, they could locate any Nike warehouse and purchase the products directly from there, so they don’t have to pay the few extra dollars to cover the trucking and transportation costs.Nike has a few outlets where clothes from different sport seasons are placed to allow customers to purchase the items at a discounted rate. Customers across the globe utilize the Nike running brand, so the clothes and shoes are also sold online through the Nike website or the individual retail stores’ websites. Nike understands that its items are highly universal to all age and ethnic groups; therefore, it considers multiple locations to sell their running apparel. Hot Topic’s target audience is smaller due to their younger age. Most tweens and teens spend their free time at shopping malls where the stores are located. The store has an artistic, dark, music theme which encompasses the types of customers.The pants are hanging on racks near the back of the store because they aren’t as important as the tops and t-shirts. The t-shirts are folded and displayed on the walls of the stores behind glass coverings. A customer can walk up to the side of an entire wall, look at the different graphics and designs, and locate it on the shelves underneath the glass casings. The plug earrings are placed in the middle of the store in a large glass case near the cash register, so employees can keep an eye on the jewelry. The products are manufactured outside of the United States, so it has to be air-mailed and trucked to the different 642 locations only in the United States and Canada.The clothes are mass produced, so the clothes are first sent to warehouses that then send a certain supply amount of the clothes to each of the stores. These products are also sold online at their exclusive website where additional items are found because they aren’t sold in stores. There are also a few outlets be cause the brand needs to be affordable for the younger population. When comparing the place of all three competitors, Nike has the best distribution because it has a more universal audience based on age, geography, ethnicity, and social class. 4. When comparing the competitors’ web sites, Chanel has a well-thought design but is the least user friendly of the three. The site is easy to maneuver through, but it isn’t as simple as Nike or Hot Topic.The website’s design is based on the clothing season and separated by outfits rather than separating each product by â€Å"tops, bottoms, dresses, etc. † as other clothing websites do. It appears as if Chanel is set on which article of clothing matches with each other. For example, a certain dress can only be worn with a particular jacket, belt, or shoes. The website doesn’t appear to allow a customer to mix and match the apparel to their liking. When a user clicks each individual outfit, there is an excell ent screen shot and display of a model walking on the runway. Whichever direction the mouse cursor moves, the web page would follow the motion and give a better view of the entire outfit.For example, after a person clicks on the initial outfit link, a large screen shot would appear that covers the whole page. When they would move the mouse cursor down, they could see the rest of the outfit, such as the shoes. With each outfit, there is a short description of each article of clothing’s fabric and material. The website provides most of the needed information for the outfit, except for the price. They don’t include the price because only the rich and wealthy would shop at Chanel, and they have enough money to not care or consider the price as most other shoppers. Due to Chanel’s target audience as high-end customers who are fashionistas, the website also includes footage of multiple fashion shows where they can view the different apparel and styles.Women who shop a t Chanel tend to care about fashion, so the website is interactive in allowing them to view exclusive fashion shows and see pictures and footage of the workings inside the Chanel studio. There is a â€Å"Chanel News† link that keeps loyal Chanel customers up-to-date on any upcoming events and gives them exclusive behind the scene workings. If a user wanted to stay updated on the clothing line, they can subscribe to the website to be notified of any new products. Aside from the clothes, the website provides a store locator based on the geographic world region. Chanel’s website is unique because it has a different design and theme due to it not providing users the ability to purchase the items online.It gives off the true essence of how important fashion is to some women. When entering the Nike website, the user has to first select a language than the country which applies to them. This shows the universal and global effect of this brand. The site is user friendly as it separates each product into the sport it associates with. Running shoes or apparel would be found in the link for running while basketball shorts would be found under the basketball link. The website is more than just shopping for apparel. There is a link for customers to shop individually, and there are individual site links where people who are interested in different sports can click.For example, if one were to click the running site, there would be a narrow range of products to shop from. Also, there are training tips, events, news, and footage. This website would be the most user friendly in comparison of the three because it considers the different types of users and their individual needs. For example, there is a list of shoe options a customer can choose from. They can choose footwear for their different foot condition and the degree of support they need. Even though it may be difficult for a consumer to determine which product they need from all of the options, it is better to allow the different factors for people who are short or tall, flatfooted, and lightweight or plus sized.A user can easily choose between the links if they were to shop for tops, shoes, gear, fan gear, bottoms, or shirts. Each of the products has descriptions where it discusses the product’s benefits, fit, fabric, design, origins, and directions on after-care. Along with the product’s highlights, the website shares featured technology, such as how Dri-FIT works. There are also size charts to help customers figure out their most suitable measurements. Customers have the capability of posting and reading reviews where consumers rate the product based on its size, fit, comfort, and durability. The videos that the website provides show average people in the Nike products running and exercising in everyday places.Since customers can purchase items online, they have the ability to check their order status and know where it is in the processing procedures. Athletes are und er physical and mental pressure when they are training, so the website provides motivational and encouraging quotes and expressions. At the bottom of the webpage, there is a link to find the nearest store location to the user. There is also an opportunity for people to take pictures and send them to Nike about how they keep active and healthy. Users can also follow Nike through Twitter and YouTube. Hot Topic is also user friendly because it has a younger target audience. The website has more options and functions aside from buying apparel because younger generations are more tech savvy.It is easy for a user to locate their needs because the clothing, accessories, and shoes are split up into categories at the top of the webpage: New Arrivals, Clothing, T-shirts, Denim, Accessories, and Shoes. There is also an option to choose what a user wants to see, such as male, female, or unisex apparel. The products are easily narrowed into subcategories of tops, bottoms, dresses, hoodies, swim, intimates, and kid sizes. The site provides a size chart to allow users to figure out which size is most suitable to their personal measurements. Next to the tabs that depict the clothes, there is a link for deals and clearance items. All the deals that the store is currently offering are largely advertised in red font that jumps from the black background color.The deals are the first to be seen when a user uses the website. If a user wanted a specific band t-shirt, there is a feature at the bottom of the webpage to shop by their favorite artist. Also at the bottom of the webpage, there are clothes being advertised as â€Å"Girls & Guys Most Wanted. † It is a way to further advertise a popular item. Whatever band, artist, or musician is trending at the time, the website shows the pictures and links of top artists, so a user is automatically sent to view products associated with that group or person. When a user chooses a particular item, there is a brief description of the i tem depicting the fabric, graphics, price, and directions on how to care for the product.Beyond the apparel, there are news and videos about certain bands which include music videos or exclusive interviews. The website allows a user to find the nearest store from their location. There is also a â€Å"wish list† feature where a person can put certain items on that list and send them to friends and family who can view it. There are quick links to YouTube, MySpace, Facebook, and Twitter. A person can also have the opportunity to learn about jobs and model opportunities. Hot Topic has links about the store’s purpose and social responsibility. 5. A survey was given to fifteen women of different ages, who have various fashion styles, to get an idea if the three competitors successfully established themselves in the fashion industry.These women are a mix of those who know about the fashion industry, are clueless about fashion, love to be stylish, and don’t care what th ey wear. 1. When purchasing an outfit, which competitor provides the best quality? a. Coco Chanel80% b. Nike, Inc. 13. 33% c. Hot Topic6. 67% 2. Which competitor has the best deals for its brand of clothes? a. Coco Chanel0% b. Nike, Inc. 66. 67% c. Hot Topic33. 33% 3. Who is Hot Topic’s target audience? a. Music lovers13. 33% b. Goths66. 67% c. Artists0% d. Fashionistas0% e. Other20% 4. Which competitor is more universal? a. Coco Chanel0% b. Nike, Inc. 100% c. Hot Topic0% 5. If you were to receive money for a shopping spree, which competitor would you choose to shop at? a. Coco Chanel53. 34% b. Nike, Inc. 33. 33% c. Hot Topic13. 33%Based on the response percentages, it does appear that the competitors position themselves accurately to their main target audience. However, the majority of the poll believed that Chanel provided the best quality of the three. The younger and older demographic seemed to share the same perception of Chanel’s quality which may be a result of its brand image and high prices. The two who chose Nike said it had better quality because it was more suitable to their needs; they both are twenty years old. The only person who chose Hot Topic to have the better quality only shops at that store and is biased because she has a dislike of designer fashion brands. Due to it being a top fashion line, Chanel is successful in setting itself as a quality leader.When it comes to the better deals, nobody chose Chanel as having a good price for its own style of clothing. Even the five older women chose Nike instead because they believed Chanel was pricey. This doesn’t affect Chanel because they aren’t trying to be a price leader which is why their prices are through the roof. Their clients are wealthy who don’t care too much about the costs, so price isn’t one of Chanel’s top priorities; it only sets high prices to keep the concept of riches and luxury. Five women chose Hot Topic as the price leader betwe en the three competitors because they shop at the store on a regular basis. Hot Topic is doing a good job at marketing the products at affordable prices for the younger generations.However, across the spectrum of age and ethnicity, the majority chose Nike as the price leader because it reaches a greater market-place than Hot Topic. Nike targets various types of people, so they are more knowledgeable about the products than those of Hot Topic which targets strictly a younger demographic. Hot Topic’s mission statement is about enabling kids to express themselves musically and artistically. The company expects its target consumers to see them as one who allows people to share their appreciation of music and art. However, less than 15% of the poll shows people believing that the company’s consumers are music lovers. The two who answered that the store is designed for music lovers are knowledgeable about the store and shop there frequently.Aside from music, nobody believed that the brand was geared towards those who loved art. Over 65% of the poll assumes that â€Å"Goths† wear the clothes due to its black, dark, bold styles. People within the age of Hot Topic’s target consumers had a different view of the store than the actual company. Even though these people range in usage rate of Hot Topic’s clothes, they know about the style and products, but they stereotype the typical consumers. The three young girls who chose â€Å"other† shop at this store on a regular basis, but they don’t have any knowledge about what the company is trying to project to its audience. When asked which competitor is the most universal, all fifteen women chose Nike.They understand and agree with Nike’s mission to affect and influence different type of consumers globally. They know that more people of different backgrounds, religions, ethnicity, income, etc. purchase Nike goods rather than the upscale apparel of Chanel and the musical s tyling of Hot Topic. Therefore, Nike is doing an excellent job when they are internationally expanding their 452 worldwide while Chanel is a company with only 310 stores worldwide. Nike’s ability to target a large market-place justifies their goal of increasing the number of stores to 738 between 2010 and 2015. If the fifteen women received free money to go on a shopping spree, they fit directly into each of the competitor’s target audiences.The women who fit into Chanel’s target range of being at least thirty years old or a fashionista chose to have a fun day with Chanel. The other women who chose to purchase from Nike are athletes and don’t favor over-priced brand names, such as Chanel. These women want comfort and don’t consider the â€Å"in-style† fashion culture. Even though they were to obtain free money, they wanted to purchase as much as they can with the great Nike deals. The few who chose to shop at Hot Topic are frequent shoppers. They are not fashionistas or athletes. They are nineteen years old with a love art, music, and free expression. In the end, all three competitors are successful in reaching their main target audiences. 6. CHANEL – SWOT Analysis | STRENGTHS| WEAKNESSES| Reputation * Quality * Brand image * Wealthy target market * High demand & popularity * Fashion industry knowledge * Value added products * International Company * Elegant, sophisticated, luxury Concept * Knowledgeable employees * Exclusively owned designs (Tweed Fabric, embroidery, decorative chain, button)| * Small target market * High Price * Exclusively for women * Recession * Limited Production Designs| OPPORTUNITIES| THREATS| * Expand design production * Increase ad campaigns * Target new audiences: Men| * Counterfeits * Similar design by competitors * Cheaper competitors * Change in fashion trend|Since Chanel was founded in 1909, it has accomplished an exquisite reputation of quality, beauty, and luxury in the fashion i ndustry. The popularity of this brand is the reason why it has been strong for a long time. Even people who don’t shop at Chanel know about the clothing line and believe in its product’s extreme quality. The greatest strength Chanel has is its brand image which entices women to purchase and desire the extravagant products. Women mainly purchase the Chanel items in order to show other women that they are wearing Chanel, which is why the brand mark needs to be visible. As of 2010, Chanel’s net income is â‚ ¬280. 3 million and revenue is â‚ ¬1. 809 billion.The reason for its financial and fashion success is its wealthy target market of high income women and celebrities. Even men who don’t know anything about the fashion industry know that Chanel is popular for women. This brand is one of the top fashion designers, so it has an extended knowledge of the industry: current styles, marketable designs, and clothing production. The brand image, quality, and reputation of Chanel add value to its products for women who are fashionistas and all about brand names because they love the elegant, sophisticated, luxury concept. It is an international company, so it is able to reach its wealthy clients globally.The employees must be knowledgeable about the popular fashions, have an artistic, creative vision, and understand the benefits of each article of clothing. Chanel exclusively owns certain fabrics and designs that competitors do not have: tweed fabric, decorative chain, distinguished button, and detailed embroidery. Even though Chanel has wealthy customers, the fact that their target market is small is a weakness. Statistically, there is less high income than middle income or low income households. Chanel only designs and produces clothes for women, so that narrows its target market further. Other top brand name designers, such as Gucci or Louis Vuitton, advertise to male and female shoppers.Chanel’s small consumer percentage limit s its capabilities of expanding and selling to a larger audience. This company also limits itself when it comes to the production designs. The clothes that it designs are similar to each other. There hasn’t been much room for new styles, fabrics, or designs. With the economy suffering the past several years, the company’s high prices decrease the number of sales. When people are trying to save money, they are more likely to refrain from purchasing fruitless items and luxuries. With Chanel being trendy and influential in the fashion industry, they have opportunities to experiment. The company can attempt at expanding its design production.Instead of strictly designing the typical types of styles, it can add a few different styles, so it can target a larger audience group. In order to expand its company to have a wider range, it could produce apparel for men in addition to the existing men’s fragrance. This way, it attracts a larger scope of wealthy males and fema les. If it were to expand its designs, target audience, and production, the brand would increase its ad campaigns to men magazines, TV shows, and male celebrities. One threat that Chanel and most companies in the fashion industry faces is the possible change in fashion trends. A particular style of clothing or brand may only be popular for a short period of time.Even though Chanel has sustained its popularity for over a century, it needs to keep in mind that fashion is constantly changing. It has to be updated and advertised to a large range of people. If the company doesn’t take the opportunity to expand on its scope of style, other competitors may come out with similar designs. With these similar designs, competitors will offer a lower price than Chanel. Chanel would currently have more consumers, but the high prices hold many people back. With fashion, people always want to have a certain product from a designer, but they may not be able to afford it. Top designer companie s have the threat of counterfeit products. For example, a Chanel handbag costs at least $1,000; however, a person can sell that same fake bag for $10.It is hard for some to tell the difference between a counterfeit and authentic item without proper investigation. 7. Chanel has an excellent customer relationship management style when it comes to dealing with their loyal customers. Once customers make their first purchase, usually with a credit card, their information is captured in their data base, so employees can look back to see what was purchased. This data base allows the company to locate their customers’ locations and highlight any similar products that may interest the customer in the future. This information gathers basic demographic information, frequency of purchase, price of the purchase, and distance from their home to the boutique. On the ompany’s website, fashionistas or loyal customers are able to subscribe to the site in order to be alerted on new fashi on/accessories, fragrance/makeup/skincare, and fine jewelry/watches arrivals. Customers feel they have an insider look and importance. However, there is a legal statement on the webpage for users to understand that the company isn’t liable for any risk that a user may face. Aside from the email list, the top priority customers receive a personal letter or phone call to invite them to the store to preview a new collection. In addition, Chanel’s knowledge management is strong in bringing customers back. Women appreciate the feeling of being important and special which is why interaction between a company representative and the customer is important.Most of the customers are loyal, so this allows a representative to build a relationship with a customer and further understand their needs, wants, and desires. As far as I can tell, I believe that Chanel has a better customer relationship management than Nike and Hot Topic because it has a smaller target audience that they ca n place more emphasis and concentration on. A smaller range of customers allows the employees to interact with customers on a personal level. Chanel, Nike, and Hot Topic address the lifetime value that their customers represent. All three have an after care service where they can either go on the website or return to the store if they have any questions. The three competitors deal with their customers in their own way.Chanel has a personal relationship interaction with its clients; Nike gives customers frequent purchaser awards; Hot Topic has a friendly service where it gives customers the will to return and purchase from the company in the future. 8. When it comes to a community outreach program, Chanel hosts charity events for different causes. They tend to have fashion shows or benefit dinners where celebrities host, attend, or advertise the event to attract people to attend or donate. For example, Chanel had a benefit dinner with Kate Hudson for the Natural Resources Defense Cou ncil’s Ocean Initiative. All the money received from ticket attendance went straight to the charity. Nike addresses the societal marketing concept better than Chanel.The company has charity events, similar to Chanel, where celebrities attend dinners and shows; the profits from the tickets directly fund some charitable cause. Besides the charity events, the company believes in recycling. In 1993, Nike started their â€Å"Reuse-a-Shoe† program in an effort to keep their shoes out of landfills. Over the past nineteen years since this program begun, it was able to recycle over one and a half million pairs of shoes each year. The shoes and clothes that it produces are all recyclable in order to help clean up the environment. Nike also builds basketball courts and outdoor activity areas for schools and the Boys and Girls Club.On Hot Topic’s website, there is a link to help users learn about the company’s social responsibility. They make sure to provide their cu stomers with products produced legally and responsibly. The company has each manufacturer and product provider abide to their strict standards that prohibit forced labor, child labor, harassment, and abuse. Hot Topic ensures that employers provide health, safety, sufficient wages, and benefits to employees. 9. Since the downturn of the economy in 2005, Chanel had some difficulty. People during those times lost their jobs or were fearful of their termination. As a result, many started to save money by cutting out any unnecessary spending of luxurious that included Chanel products.The company’s revenue declined for a few years; however, as the economy is slowly recovering, the revenue is increasing gradually. The main reason for its short decline in profit is its small target audience becoming smaller and prices remained expensive. Nike had its own share of hardship as its steady revenue dropped drastically in the beginning of 2009. Even though Nike’s products are more u niversal and targets a larger audience than Chanel and Hot Topic, it couldn’t escape the fact that people ceased to shop for clothes during the recession. Since that huge drop in 2009, Nike has positively gained much profit. As the years go by, its income statement shows that their income and profits are increasing by several hundred thousands of dollars.For Nike to increase its profits and keep its sustainability, it reduced its expenses thirty to fifty percent. Chanel is growing back to what it originally was before the recession, while Nike has continued to soar since the company was founded in 1964. Hot Topic was founded in 1988 and reached great success starting in 2000. It was doing well until the downturn of the economy. The company’s main consumers are tweens and teens which are the reasons why it has a challenging time gaining back its past success. As the years go by, the income statement shows that the company’s total revenue is decreasing. In January 2011, it peaked at its greatest operating loss; however in January 2012, it decreased that amount but is still operating at a loss.Hot Topic is attempting at earning back its profits by attracting people with constant deals which have been working at a slow pace. 10. Personal or relationship selling affects the final consumer who buys the Chanel outfit. Chanel requires all the different supplies of the final product to comply with certain guidelines and rules. The company verifies its supply chain. It is constantly verifying its supply chains to address risks of any human trafficking and slavery. They research their suppliers because they don't take part in forced labor. Chanel also conducts selected audits of suppliers, including audits about the conditions of work and the use of forced labor.They conduct internal and external audits that may or may not be announced prior to the investigation. Training is also provided for employees with direct responsibility for supply chain mana gement. In the facilitating functions, Chanel researches its channel members through audits and extends credit and other financial services to facilitate the flow of goods through the channel to the final consumer. During the transactional functions, they contact potential customers, promote products, and solicit orders. They also negotiation how many goods or services to buy and sell, so they don't have an oversupply of goods because their target audience is smaller than other clothing boutiques.They also select the type of transportation to use which is presumably air-mail because the outfit is primarily manufactured in France. There are trucking distributions, but the items are carefully packaged to ensure safety. The outfits are delivered prior to the start of the season that it is being sold in, so top priority customers can have the first look. Chanel also assumes risk of owning any inventory because some pieces of the outfit may not be as popular as the other. 11. Chanel†™s best clients are frequent customers. They aren't necessarily categorized as being only high dollar people because all of the shoppers are wealthy. This company is a designer line, so its preferred customers are constantly making purchases.When it comes to the outfit comprised of the boots, dress, jacket, and belt, Chanel could get their frequent customers to order more by sending them letters, emails, notices, or phone calls about a new arrival of clothing or accessories that may be to their liking. Chanel employees would be able to collect customer’s information from their data storage and segment which new products can be associated and sold to a particular shopper. For example, this particular outfit is all white, so an employee can suggest to whoever purchased the clothes to buy a matching handbag, sunglasses, hat, broach, or scarf. These women are top paying fashionistas who trust the knowledge of people working in the fashion industry, so they would be more incline d to purchase items that can be easily incorporated into their outfit.From this, Chanel can suggest outfits to these customers during every different season; they can suggest a new particular jacket, dress, shoes, or accessory. 12. Personally being into fashion, I love the extravagance and beauty that Chanel’s campaigns exude. The photography and its design are exquisite. I don’t have a favorite ad in mind, but I love the ads where the photos are taken in outdoor scenery. The nature setting is captivating because the beauty of nature is combined with the apparel's beauty. I love art, so I favor the black and white ads. Black and white photos seem to have a unique, elegant, and classy feeling because it’s vintage. Chanel also tends to have advertisements where a model would be in a dark room and have the light shine on her while she’s wearing the clothes.The dark room makes the audience automatically draw their eyes to the bright light illuminating from th e Chanel clothes. Overall, I believe that the photography and lighting of the campaigns play a bigger role than the background scenery. The way the light shines on the models make them appear to be a doll and completely flawless. I assume that I love the Chanel advertisement campaigns because I yearn for the company's luxurious clothes along with the beauty and elegance that it provides customers. If I had the money, I know that I would be a loyal, frequent customer. Nike's ad campaigns are realistic, encouraging, and motivational. My favorite Nike advertisements are of photos that capture natural, regular athletes in their movement.I love viewing the different body movements, whether it is of them running, dancing, or stretching. The photos are taken in great detail, so you can see each movement that the athlete makes. The body movements give a sense of abstract artwork which I admire. The appearance of an athlete's easy movements with Nike's inspiring quotes is very motivational. I feel as if Nike does a better job than the three competitors at engaging and relating to their audiences. Sometimes, I appreciate a simple ad that captures a certain moment without any need of being over detailed or having popular celebrities. The Nike ad campaigns tend to have more computer graphics design with colors that are truly captivating.The motivational words make me feel as if it is just simple to get up and do a physical activity, even though it may not be. With TV commercials, the company has a narrator dictate similar encouraging quotes in a voice that is too powerful to ignore. I am impressed with how simple Nike's advertising campaign can be; however, it i