Intel Company Analysis

Today, Intel is used in many personal computers and lab-tops. The company has made a brand for itself and has been able to sustain ranks among many notable competitors. Today, Intel holds greater than 80 percent of the microprocessors market because of the success of its Pentium chip (Semiconductor 1). This report contains information pertaining to the Intel Company from the beginning and up to 2001. As many computer chip companies Intel had battles being at the top of the competitor’s lists, as well as producing products worth individual attention. This report will give a background of the company, an industry analysis that will explain Intel’s top competitors in detail, a SWOT analysis, a financial analysis and will conclude with suggestions that can help the company grow further. The Intel Corporation began in 1968. Two men are named the founder’s of this company; Robert Noyce, Gordon Moore. Originally, Noyce and Moore wanted to name the company â€Å"Moore Noyce† after their names but realized it sounded like â€Å"more noise† and was not a suitable name for a computer chip company. The company was then named Intel for â€Å"integrated technology. The early focus of the company was on integrated circuit memory devices. One of the first tasks encountered by Intel was producing a DRAM (dynamic random access memory) with a lower price. In 1970, the 1103 was produced. The 1103 was the world’s first 1-kilobyte DRAM. This undercut prices and had increased performance while being smaller. By 1972 the 1103 was the bestselling semiconductor memory chip in the world and the first commercial computer available was the HP 9800 series. Intel was able to gain market share at this time and this allowed them to continue researching and developing new products. However, by 1978 Intel was a full generation behind the Japanese when it came to the 16K DRAM and by 1984 Intel’s total share in DRAMs was barely 1%. The EPROM was produced and it allowed easy programming and gave users the capability to erase memory with ultraviolet light. It was not until Intel decided to raise the prices of the EPROM technology that it made money and in 1984 the EPROM was Intel’s â€Å"money maker. † The microprocessor was invented in 1971 and at that time Intel did not see the potential to use it for personal computers. The 4004 microprocessor was primarily used in calculators but in 1974 the 8080 microprocessor became the standard and Intel became the Industry leader in 8- bit market (Intel 1). Then in 1980, Intel’s 8088 microprocessor was teamed with IBM’s first Personal Computer. This gave Intel a large competitive advantage. Grove stated: â€Å"The presence of IBM in the early ‘80s was crucial. By winning that contract, we won the whole industry design. † This led to the development of the 80386, the first 32-bit processor in 1985. The 386 was an instant success and at that time Intel also decided to sole-produce and stop sourcing to AMD. This led to an eight year legal battle that was eventually negotiated in 1995. To continue gaining competitive advantage Intel moved into other markets. In 1998 Intel begins moving into digital photography, video, networking equipment and Internet commerce markets by manufacturing special chips (Intel 1). However, by 2001 Intel announced it was going remain focused on microchips. At that time Intel had a clear competitive advantage over the microchip market. The SIC code for Intel is 3674 for semiconductors and related devices. The NAICS code is 334413 for semiconductor and related device manufacturing. The semiconductor industry is very cyclical. For instance, in the year 1995 sales grew 40% and were up to $150 billion but in 2001sales fell sharply to $139 billion (Semiconductor 1). In order for Intel to gain and maintain market share they needed to have unique success factors. There are many key success factors for Intel. Intel started with innovators. Noyce and Moore were able to take chances and risks that caused a very successful company. These two were also good managers. They made few mistakes and really took advantage of all their employees. They placed their employees as a top priority and stressed openness, innovativeness and responsibility (Carmichael 1). Intel Corporations top competitors are Texas Instruments, AMD, and Motorola. Texas Instrument started in 1930 by Dr. Clarence Karcher and Eugene McDermott. It started as a Geophysical service that had a unique way of using seismology to explore oil. In order to keep their equipment out of sight from competitors they hired J. Erik Johnson. The company made headway by teaming with the military and in 1961 TI invents the first computer with a silicon integrated base for the Airforce. Then, in 1967 TI invented the first hand-held calculator. Texas instruments have a variety of products from clocks to digital signal processors. Texas Instrument’s main competitive advantage over Intel is calculators. While Intel’s focus was personal computers, Texas Instruments was dominating calculators and the education campaign. AMD Corporation is a company similar to Intel. During the early years AMD and Intel worked together to produce quality products. AMD began in 1969 by founder Jerry Sanders. In 1982, IBM had AMD sign as a second source to Intel for their manufacturing (AMD 1). It was clear that these companies were competing to have the competitive advantage over each other. Another semiconductor company in the industry is Motorola. Motorola began in the 1920s by Paul Galvin. In 1993 Motorola was ranked third of the world’s semiconductor manufacturers (Semiconductor 1). During the early years Motorola had a communication focus. There first product was a battery eliminator that allowed customer’s to use radios without batteries. They began developing pagers and cell phones and their six sigma quality allowed for good competitive advantage. The five forces model helps to draw conclusions about the entire industry. For threats of new entrance the condition is low. In the semiconductor business many companies have patented products. The products produced in this industry are based on innovation. These patents will make it hard for a new entrant to join the industry. Another reason the threat of a new entrant is low in this industry is the asset specificity. This industry requires highly specialized technology and most potential entrants will be reluctant to acquire these specialized assets. For these reasons the threat of new entrants in this industry is low. For bargaining power of suppliers the condition is high. The condition is high because there is a significant cost to switch suppliers. An example of this is Intel’s relationship with PC manufacturers. Intel cannot switch manufacturers without expecting a high cost. The bargaining power of customers is associated with the impact that customer’s have on a producing industry. In the industry of Intel the power of customer’s is medium to low. In this industry the producer’s supply a critical portion of buyer’s input. Intel is the producer in this instance. They are supplying a crucial piece to the buyer and the buyer needs to be willing to pay the price for the piece of equipment. However, to have a competitive advantage in this industry there needs to be some bargaining power to the customers. Maintaining a reasonable price compared to other competitors is very important so the buyer’s keep coming back. In any industry there is going to be a threat of substitutes. In the industry of Intel the threat of substitutes is medium. Competitors in this industry are always going to try and invent the best processor that all individuals will eventually need. However, because of the number of patents and copyrights in this industry substituting other firm inventions become difficult. The last condition facing industries according to the five forces model is rivalry. In this industry the rivalry condition is high. There are many reasons it can be said that the rivalry is high in this industry. For one, the exit barriers are high. Even if the firm is unprofitable at a certain time the cost to exit the industry forces the firm to compete and stay in the industry. Second, high fixed costs in this industry intensify rivalry. The fight for market share in this industry is high because firms must fight to sell the large quantities in production. Another reason of high rivalry in this industry is the number of firms. With the large number of firms competing the rivalry increases because each firm wants to gain market share. Intel as a company can be looked at more in depth by a SWOT analysis. This analysis focuses on strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats to the company. Intel has many strengths. One strength is their strong market position and brand name. The company started out with nothing and has become one of the best microprocessor companies. Advanced technology capabilities are also strength to the Intel Company. Without these advance technologies Intel would not be a successful company. The innovative technologies are at the core of the company. Another strength of Intel is their strategic alliances and partnerships. â€Å"The company has partnerships with major players including Asustek Computer, Comstar, Cisco, Fujitsu, IBM, Microsoft, Micron Technology, Sun Microsystems, Sprint,Verizon, and Yahoo! (Datamonitor). These partnership have enabled Intel to produce very significant projects. Also, partnering limits competition in the market. Without worrying about what the other company is going to come out with next, partnering allows for both companies to work together to come up with a great product Some weaknesses of the Intel company include their lack of customer concentration. Intel is a micro processing manufacturing comp any so the number of customer’s consuming the products is low. Intel has high dependence on these customers which reduces bargaining power. Not being able to reduce prices quickly can also hurt Intel. With Intel, reducing prices for customer’s quickly could hurt other areas of production which could lead to dissatisfaction in other areas. The response to customers is seen as weakness because in order to have a competitor advantage appealing to the customer is crucial. There are many opportunities for Intel as a company. Proposing acquisitions could broaden Intel’s portfolio and help them gain competitive advantage in the market. Intel could also grow in the global and PC market. â€Å"Intel offers products including microprocessors and related chipsets designed for the notebook and netbook market segments. Moreover, the company's Atom processor for these segments is very prominent with growing demand. Growing PC market will contribute to steady revenue flows for the company in near term (Datamonitor 11). † The last part of the SWOT analysis is the threats a company has. Increasing competition is a threat to Intel. When Intel’s competitors succeed in producing something a customer wants before them, Intel could run the risk of losing market share or position. No company wants to lose market share to another competitor. In Intel’s industry there is always a threat that another company will produce something at greater speed. Another threat to Intel is litigations and the regulatory commission. In the past Intel was investigated for alleged unfair business transactions, and alleged security failure. Future occurrences of these event will harm Intel’s reputation and investor reputation. The financial ratios and graphs can be found on the attached pages. The first analysis to look at is profitability. The net margin was used in calculating these numbers. By the graph you can see that Intel’s margin was the most profitable in the time periods 1999-2001. When a company has a high profit margin it means that they are selling their products at higher premiums. The graph shows that Intel sold its products at the highest premium. The next analysis estimates liquidity. Liquidity is the ability for a company to be able to meet there near term obligations. The current ratio was used in calculating these numbers. A firm wants a current ratio greater than one. If a firm has a current ratio greater than one it means that they are able to satisfy their near term liabilities. If a firm has a current ratio less than one it means the firm could have a liquidity issue. The graph shows all the companies were able to maintain a liquidity higher than one except Motorola in 2000. The next financial analysis was looking at leverage. The debt-to-equity ratio was used to determine how leveraged Intel and the competitor companies were. The debt-to-equity compares the companies liabilities to their equity. Companies want to have a lower percentage because that means they are using lower leverage and have a stronger equity position. From the graph it is apparent that Intel has the best leverage because of the lower percentage rates. The results shows that Motorola has a very low equity position because there liabilities outweigh there equities. The other two companies, AMD and Texas Instruments seem to be decreasing there liability numbers over time and in the coming years may have a better equity position. The last financial analysis estimate efficiency. The inventory turnover ratio was used to estimate these numbers. The inventory ratio tells you how often a company moves or sells inventory. To predict if a company has a good inventory turnover it is helpful to look at competitor’s results. In the graph included in the attachments, it can be observed that in 1999 and 2000 Intel had the second highest inventory turnover. This means that it took longer for Intel to sell inventories than Texas Instruments or Motorola at that time. However, in the year 2001 it had the lowest inventory turnover. In order to obtain a long lasting company these recommendations could help the company. Some immediate recommendations that should take place in 90 days or less could be to obtain ideas from employees to improve the company or how to gain competitive advantage. Listening to individuals that work for the company may help gain new ideas. Intel prides itself on the innovativeness their employees and it is important to give them a say in how they think the company is doing or where they think it can improve. Another immediate recommendation is a new marketing campaign to seek computer users to switch to Intel processors as opposed to competitors. I think it is important for consumer’s to understand the difference between core processors (such as Intel and AMD) not just the difference in the actual computer (like Dell and Apple). The average American does not know the difference and educating these individuals will help Intel gain a competitor advantage. Short term recommendations could include a price-reducing analysis. If the company could find ways to lower the prices of manufacturing they can gain competitive advantage. Also a short-term recommendation could be to research more about the cellular and wireless industry to see if it would be worth it to the company to branch out further form micro processors. Long term recommendations expand industry further not just for computer but gain market share in cellular and wireless devices. Intel has been the leader of microprocessors for many years. If they can use their knowledge Intel could expand .

Financial Accounting Theory & the Reporting Environment Essay

5. Researchers who develop positive theories and researchers who develop normative theories often do not share the same views about the roles of their respective approaches to theory construction. (a) How do positive and normative theories differ? (b) Can positive theories assist normative theories, or vice versa? If yes, give an example. If not, why not? Normative accounting research makes policy recommendations and is concerned with what should be done in contrast to explaining why current practice is carried out in the manner that it is (positive theory). Normative theorists usually attempt to derive either the ‘true income’ or adopt the ‘decision — usefulness’ approach whereby accounting reports are an input into users’ decisions (e.g., to buy or sell shares, management decisions on the financial wealth of firms, etc.). The major issues are the impact of the changing price environment (prices) and the impact on income, assets, liabilities a nd equity. As a consequence many normative theorists are measurement theorists who attempt to incorporate the effects of inflation into accounting reports. In this sense they take a semantic viewpoint — relating the figures in the accounting reports to actual objects (assets, liabilities) or events (changes in inflation). To some extent the approach of the IASB is a normative approach. Positive accounting theory was a reversion to testing or relating accounting theories back to the ‘facts’ or ‘experiences’ of the real world. Examples of such research were questionnaires and surveys of bank officers or investors regarding their use of financial reports for decision making; or whether inflation adjusted accounting reports actually aided decision making. Current positive accounting research is aimed at explaining the reasons for actual accounting practices and in predicting the role of accounting data in economic, political and social decision making. P ositive theory has expanded accounting theory from the purely decision making focus of normative theorists into analysis of political and economic factors. Using the normative recommendation of IFRS, that fair values should be used in financial statements, a positive theorists would first undertake a number of empirical tests to see if they are actually useful/used by decision makers in their valuation models. In this sense they complement each other – normative theory the deductive analysis with positive theory the empirical verification. 7. Classify the following hypotheses according to whether they are conclusions of positive or normative theories. Explain your answers. (a) Historical cost accounting should be replaced by a market value system. (b) Historical cost accounting provides information used by creditors. (c) Historical cost accounting is used by many managers to allocate costs in determining divisional performance. (a) normative (b) positive (c) positive Page 1 of 37 10. The decision-usefulness approach to theory development can be used to develop theories of accounting. a) Explain what is meant by the decision-usefulness approach to theory development. b) How can the decision-usefulness approach relate to accounting theory formulation? c) Give two examples of decisions that require data obtained from accounting reports. The decision-usefulness approach is an instrumentalist approach (see diagram p.25). In a narrower sense, one direct test of an overall theory of accounting would be to determine whether the output data of the accounting systems, which are constructed on the basis of the overall theory, are useful to users. The data of the accounting systems are utilised by users in their prediction models, and the conclusions (predictions) are then used in their decision models. The problem is that if the prediction is verified, it verifies the prediction model, not the accounting system and its output. There are other variables besides accounting data that affect the prediction. We do not know how the accounting data were utilised. Also, if the decision turns out to be right, it verifies the decision model, not the accounting system. Interpreting the evidence on decision-making is extremely difficult. We do not know how to interpret the evidence to determine that accounting information is useful. Th us, a direct test is virtually impossible. Accounting standard setters usually determine usefulness with the weaker, more direct tests which are usually advanced by accounting committee setting bodies and include: relevance, verifiability, freedom from bias, timeliness, comparability, reliability and understandability. Some decisions: To invest in a firm’s stock (i) (ii) To loan funds to a firm (iii) To purchase or buy an asset. GHTHH Chapter 4 1. How do conceptual frameworks of accounting attempt to create a theory of accounting? Describe the components of the IASB Framework and how they contribute to a theory of accounting. Conceptual frameworks (such as those developed in the United States, Australia and at the IASC/IASB) do not employ the term ‘theory’ because of the difficulty of demonstrating logical consistency and in gathering empirical evidence to corroborate the theory. However, by following a structured program of inter-related concepts, accounting regulators aim to use the conceptual framework to achieve consistent accounting standards that will replace ad hoc solutions to specific problems. In this context, the components of the conceptual framework can be viewed as the building blocks of a theory of accounting. The components of the IASB/Australian Framework are: objectives of financial statements; qualitative characteristics of financial information (such as relevance, reliability, comparability, timeliness and understandability); and definitions of the basic elements of accounting reports (such as assets, liabilities, equity, revenue, expenses and profit) and principles and ru les of recognition and measurement of the basic elements, and the nature of the information to be displayed in financial reports. (Refer page 55 of text) 3. What does the IASB Framework describe as the basic objective of accounting? What are its implications? Stewardship looks primarily to the past, asking the question: What happened? Decision making looks to consequences in the future, asking the question: What will happen? A decision-making approach sees accounting information as inputs for the decision-making prediction models of users. If so, then we are concerned about what kind of accounting information is relevant to decision makers. Some believe that current value is implied. Also that statement of financial position accounts and their amounts are as important as those in the income statement. Traditional accounting emphasises income. Page 2 of 37 6. Explain the role of accounting in relation to: (a) individuals (b) firms (c) the Australian economy. Accounting information helps to efficiently allocate capital in the economy. The successful operation of a free economy depends, to a large extent, on the good judgements made by individuals about their investment opportunities and the investment opportunities of firms. People need information to decide where to invest or lend, and at what price. In relation to firms, accounting information forms the basis for many contracts, such as debt contracts that include covenants specifying that the firm will not allow its leverage ratio to exceed a certain level, or management compensation plans that provide managers with bonuses based on reported corporate earnings. As such, the firm’s cash flows are tied to accounting numbers. Since the value of the firm is the present value of all future cash flows and those cash flows are tied to accounting numbers, accounting numbers determine the value of the firm. In relation to the economy, accounting information plays a vital role in the equitable allocation of capital, and it contributes to the effective performance of the price system. The effective operation of our economy means that efficient and inefficient companies must be identified, so that resources are channelled to the former and away from the latter in order to have a ‘successful’ economic system. What would happen, after a long period of time, if ‘incorrect’ information is reported? The economic system would become inefficient (because of the existence of many inefficient firms), causing serious economic problems to all. 7. Can accounting ever provide an unbiased map of economic reality? Why or why not? Yes. Criticisms of neutrality or freedom from bias take two forms. First, some argue it is a state of mind that is not attainable, because all of us are affected by personal values that have been shaped by our particular beliefs, traditions, environment, background and personality. Granted that this is true, it is still meaningful to speak of neutrality or freedom from bias. We recognise the existence of these influences on our perceptions. The idea is to control them within an acceptable range. Second, some contend that neutrality or freedom from bias is not operational, because we cannot be expected to read other people’s minds. However, it is possible to translate neutrality or freedom from bias into operational terms by establishing specific control devices that are external and subject to examination. Control devices are the means by which the notion of objectivity receives operational meaning. Control devices have to do with making public or external what is essentially inter nal or introspective. Rules and procedures under the heading of disclosure, consistency, comparability, and materiality as well as GAAP are practical control devices. In the accounting literature, practical control devices under the heading of objectivity have taken the following three forms: ï‚ · to make specific and precise the concepts and procedures of accounting, and to obtain general agreement on them ï‚ · to determine a consensus of the measure among a number of experts ï‚ · to improve the standards of competence and ethics of the profession. Accountants must construct unbiased or neutral financial maps of economic reality. Otherwise, as Solomons warns, ‘If it ever became accepted that accounting might be used to achieve other than purely measurement ends, faith in it would be destroyed’. Page 3 of 37

Analysis: Short Story and Robin Black Essay

Divorced, Beheaded, Survived† by Robin Black In this essay will I analyse and interpret Robin Blacks short story â€Å"†¦ Divorced, Beheaded, Survived†. I will focus on the structure and the use of symbols in the short story in a part of my essay. The short story â€Å"†¦ Divorced, Beheaded, Survived† is written by Robin Black in 2010. The short story is about a woman who thinks back of her childhood, where her brother still lived. She recalls how everybody started ignoring her and her brother when he got sick and died. In present her son loses his best friend and goes through the same type of sorrow. She thinks back at a stage play they used to act with some other kids in the back yard. The short story takes place on Manhattan in about 2004. The main character thinks back at her childhood in Massachusetts. In the present the main character lives with her husband, Lyle, and her two children, Mark and Coco, on Manhattan. In the past she lived with her parents and her older brother in a house. Her childhood home had a small yard with rosebushes and a Japanese maple. The main character is named Sarah. She went to high school and college. She has had a brief marriage with another man, but is now married to Lyle, whom she has two children with. Her to kids are 16 years old, Mark, and 12 years old, Coco. She had a brother named Terrance, called terry, who died in 1974, when he was about 14. Sarah was about 12 when he died. Sarah did not want her two kids to be closer at age, because she would not want them to be like her brother and her. But I put our second child off, and so my boy and girl were always Just a little different from the air we used to be† (Page 2, line 63-64) Sarah tries to protect her children and her self from sorrow and from being frightened, by taking down the pictures of her dead brother. â€Å"l was afraid my brother’s face would become a fearful thing for them. And maybe for me as well, with kids of my own. † (Page 4, line 139-140) Sh e thinks a lot of the stage play she performed in her childhood home with her brother and some of the neighbour’s kids, and how her friends vanished when Terry got sick. She remembers how it felt and how hard it was to get trough, and she knows it will take Marks some time as well to get over his loss. â€Å"And I know that he will. It Just takes time (†¦ ) It’ll take some more time† (Page 4, line 152-153) The short story is written with a 1st person narrator. â€Å"l don’t think about Terry everyday, anymore† (Page 4, Line 127) It is not an omniscient narrator, because we only get to now the main character’s feelings and thoughts. The short story Jumps in time by the main character’s thoughts. It begins with Sarah’s childhood, where you near now it was betore Terry got sick and it switches to present atter we near he ied. As a reader you get thrown right into her present life, where she get a call regarding her son’s best friend’s death. Just as she is about to tell her son, we are en the past again hearing about how the time was when Terry was sick. Through the whole story does Robin Black switch from past to present and reverse in exiting moments, which catches the readers attention. We alternate between hearing about how she was and how she is now. It is first in the very last part we hear how she got trough the rough period. Robin Black uses the tree words â€Å"divorced, beheaded and survived†, not only in the headline but more than one time in the story. The tree words are a symbol of the 3 periods you are going through, when a loved one gets sick and die. Divorced is the time where your friends start avoiding you, not because they do not love you, but because they do not know how to react. The second period is beheaded, where the loved one dies, which is the rough period. The last word is survived. Even though it has been hard, will there be light again. You will get trough it. In the beginning of the hort story Sarah remember how everybody wanted to be Anne Boleyn, the plum role, and how Terry was the best to play her. I think Terry is a symbol of Anne Boleyn. The people surrounding them admire both of them and they both die anyways. I think they are a symbol of how nothing comes easy and you should be happy for what you have. The main themes are sorrow, dealing with sorrow and how life goes on. Trough Sarah’s thoughts we hear how you cannot be prepared to lose a person you love. Many people have a hard time dealing with death and do not know how to act. In â€Å". Divorced, Beheaded, Survived† Robin Black describes how Sarah’s friends quietly start ignoring her and the brother begins as well. She feels alone with her sorrow, which many people do. â€Å"We had played together all our lives, and then it ended. There was no more ease between us. Not even between my brother and me. † (Page 3, line 105-106) In the short story the main character is dealing with her sorrow by burying it. â€Å"Silences, agreed to. Intimacies, put away. † (Page 5, Line 173) Her friends who knew her brother were avoiding her, so she could not talk to them about her feelings.

Role of the US Government in the Acceleration of the Advancement of Essay

Role of the US Government in the Acceleration of the Advancement of Computers - Essay Example The electronic computr has been approximately for over a half-century, but its intimates have been approximately for 2000 years. However, only in the last 4 decades has it changed the American society which resulted from U.S government policies towards the advancements of computrs. From the 1st wooden "abacus" to the latest high-speed "microprocessor chip", the computr has altred nearly every aspect of people's lives for the bettr. The outburst of "World War II" twisted a desperate need for computing capability, particularly for the military. New weapons' systems were created which required trajectory tables and other indispensable data. In 1942, John P. Eckert, John W. Meauchley, and their associates at the "University of Pennsylvania" detrmined to build a high-speed electronic computr to do the job. This machine became recognized as "ENIAC", for "Electrical Numerical Integrator And Calculator". It may well multiply two numbers at the tempo of 300 products per second, by finding the value of each product from a multiplication table stored in its memory. ""ENIAC"" was consequently about 1,000 times quicker than the preceding generation of computrs (Dolotta, 47). "ENIAC" used 18,000 standard vacuum tubes, engaged 1800 square feet of floor space, and used about 180,000 watts of electricity. (Ceruzzi, 36) The input and output was done by punched-card. The "ENIAC" was very complicated to program because one had to fundamentally re-wire it to execute whatever task he required the computr to do. It was, though, well-organized in handling the particular programs for which it had been planned. "ENIAC" is normally accepted as the 1st victorious high-speed electronic digital computr and was used in various applications from 1946 to 1955 (Dolotta, 50). Mathematician John von Neumann was very fascinated in the "ENIAC". In 1945 he undertook a hypothetical study of computation that confirmed that a computr could have a very straightforward and yet be able to perform any kind of computation effectively by means of appropriate programmed control devoid of the need for any changes in hardware. Von Neumann came up with incredible ideas for methods of building and organizing practical, fast computrs. These ideas, which came to be referred to as the stored-program technique, became essential for future generations of high-speed digital computrs and were across the world adopted. The 1st gesture of modern programmed electronic computrs to take benefit of these improvements appeared in 1947. This group incorporated computrs using random access memory (RAM), which is a memory designed to give almost steady access to any particular portion of information. This equipment used punched-card or punched-tape input and output devices and RAM's of thousand-word capability. Physically, they were much more compact than "ENIAC": some were regarding the size of a grand piano and required two thousand five hundred small electron tubes. This was fairly a development over the earlier machines. The 1st generation stored-program computrs required considerable maintenance, usually attained 70% to 80% reliable operation, and were used for 8 to 12 years. Typically, they were programmed directly in machine language, although by the mid-1950s progress had been made in several aspects of advanced programming. This group of machines included "EDVAC "and "UNIVAC ", the 1st

Leadership & Change Coursework Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Leadership & Change - Coursework Example An argument against this point of view that I think is important is the fact that in most cases the manager and the leaders who are in the organization’s higher positions are the drivers of change. These are people who can analyze think and develop the behavioral changes that can influence the individuals who bring the resistance to change (Mullins, 2010, pg.31). I believe it is the role the managers to changes in an effective way. They have to develop some individual management skills. They should be sense maker and sense giver. Through effective communication, they can translate the changes. They can also minimize the anxiety of the employees through sharing the information and discussing the needs and the advantages of the change (Rubin, et al.2010, pg.217-9). A leadership style that is democratic can reduce the opposition and assist to in getting an easy acceptance. Whenever empathy is displayed by the leader, those employees who are scared of change will embrace the change process voluntarily. The industries such as advertisement, PR and media require a constant change. And for the globalised competition survival, the other industries have to bring in some change. I would recommend the Lewi’s Change Management model because many people prefer and work within given zones of safety. The model is also is easy to use, and a lot of organizations use this model to implement major changes (Ibarra & Hansen, 2011,pg.69-70). It has three stages; 2. Translation – Immediately change has been initiated, the company goes to the translation period, and this may take some time. Efficient leadership and reassurance is important for this process to succeed. The General Electrics managed some important changes its work culture at the time of transformational leadership tenure. Charles Handy’s framework was utilized to identify the cons of autocratic culture in its organizational

Psychology Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words - 16

Psychology - Essay Example Learning can broadly be defined as ‘relatively permanent change in behaviour’ (Burns, R., 2002) through observable activities and internal processes of perception. The comparative perspective of psychology of learning primarily relies on the observation of behavioural activities of others that prompt others to improve and improvise one’s actions to optimize the performance outcome. When the observations provoke some mental processing to come to some inference, the approach is defined as cognitive approach. Thus, the varying reactions of the observations and behavioural pattern due to external objects give rise to theories to explain learning processes. The two major psychological approaches of learning are behaviourism and cognitive approach which would be compared to understand the wider implications of the approaches that are used at various levels of interaction. Theory of Behaviourism asserts that the one sees and experiences the world in its physical entirety and one responds as per the law of the nature which is constant for everyone. The principles of natural laws are based on cause and effect. Grippin and Peters claimed that this approach focuses on three vital ingredients of behaviour: observation of behaviour; environmental paradigms that influence the behaviour; and the principles of continuity and reinforcement that facilitate learning process (Grippin & Peters, 1984). Cognitive approach is basically an amalgamation of philosophical thoughts and scientific theories that try to rationalize the working of conscious and unconscious thoughts of a man and co-relate them with his subsequent actions and reactions. The theory of cognition, thereby, tries to explain why and how the events take place and subsequent pattern of behaviour of man under certain condition involving emotional and metaphysical reaction. The role of brain and conscious and unconscious activities of the mind are seen to be the responsible for the

Personal management Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2250 words

Personal management - Essay Example In addition, the report also identifies some features related to culture and norms that need to be catered to as well. Vitamond is a manufacturing concern that produces non alcoholic drinks in order to promote a healthy lifestyle among people. This organization has grown by leaps and bounds based on the premise on which they sell their drinks. At this point in time, Vitamond has a secret formula based on which it produces flavored drinks which are healthy and tasty. These drinks are then exported to various European countries and in the North America. Because of the immense success of the organization, the management has decided to branch off into another country and start producing these drinks in another similar country. The choices that the management has include France and Germany of which Germany has been chosen as the country in which another manufacturing set up will be established. The opportunity in Germany is such that another manufacturing plant is going to be established there along with a possibility of a warehouse. In addition to that, on the operational level, about two hundred and fifty people will be employed, who will be part of administration, management and production in this set up. A local subsidiary set up has been done to monitor and administer the manufacturing plant in Germany. In addition that, an expatriate from United Kingdom has been sent to Germany to head the business unit that has been established in the country. Moreover, another expatriate will also be sent who will act as the quality assurance manager for the manufacturing plant. This paper aims to define the various human resource practices that would be required in order to help manage the personnel within the organization in Germany. In addition, the paper also aims to identify the various practices that are part of Germany and how they need

Surveys and The National Crime Victimization Survey (NCVS) Assignment

Surveys and The National Crime Victimization Survey (NCVS) - Assignment Example For example, in a survey carried out to understand the social forces that lead to crime, a criminologist may sample 3,000 inmates from a population of 2 million inmates in a region. The responses of the 3000 inmates represent the whole population allowing generalization (Vito et al., 2006). Question 2 There are several types of surveys. For example, there are self-report surveys, cross-sectional surveys and counting crime surveys. A self-report survey is designed to describe, in detail, participants’ recent and lifetime participation in criminal activity. These are given anonymously in groups; so that people being surveyed are assured that their responses are confidential. Secrecy and anonymity are essential to maintain the honesty and validity of responses (Siegel 2011). Counting crime is a type of survey where victim surveys are carried out. People are asked about victimization to provide a measure of crime that adjusts for some of the limitations of data collected by the po lice. Its purpose is to provide important data about the volume of crime ia a region. A cross-sectional survey is representative of all members of the community. For instance, a survey on all students attending university is cross-sectional as all community members are represented. This type of survey is useful as it a cost effective way of measuring the characteristics of a large population of people (Vito et al., 2006). Question 3 Respondents of a survey need assurance that the information they give will be kept private and confidential, and that it will not be used against them. To ensure privacy, the researcher should keep confidential information about the respondent apart from the survey results both electronically and physically. The information should only be accessed by authorized persons and protected by codes and passwords. Using ranges rather than exact figures for potentially identifying details in a research prevents recognition. Permanent destruction of information th at is no longer needed in the study also ensures privacy (Siegel, 2011). Question 4 Bias refers to any property of a question that encourages the respondent to answer in a particular way and not the other. To avoid bias, researchers should imagine how they would feel giving each of the answers they give to the respondents. If they would feel embarrassed, perverted, inhumane or stupid, then they should reconsider whether the respondents will answer those questions. They should also be wary of social desirability that makes people give answers that will make them look good in the face of others. In a survey, the questions and methods are standardized for all subjects and thus uniformity is unaffected by the perceptions or bias of the surveyor. Carefully drawn samples from a survey enable researchers to generalize their findings from small groups to large populations. Although most surveys measure subjects at a single point in their lifespan, questions can elicit information on subject s’ past behavior as well as their expectations of future behaviors. Avoiding negation in a questionnaire item prevents misinterpretation which may lead to biasness in a survey (Siegel, 2011). Question 5 The National Crime Victimization Survey (NCVS) is a comprehensive, nationwide survey of victimization in the United States. This was established in 1973 to address the issue

From ''Infitah of Abundance'' to ''Infitah of Poverty'' Essay

From ''Infitah of Abundance'' to ''Infitah of Poverty'' - Essay Example nationalist, Naseer’s dictatorial treatment with Syrian economic activity brought about the rebellion from army in 1959 and UAR (United Arab Republic) dissolved. UAR was a weak unification of Syria and Egypt as a result of western pressures for adopting neutral stance about Baghdad pact.1 Baathists were more aggressive in their control and army personnel gained more ground in party. Economic power was in the hands of ruling elite and shifting to military. Basthist party and Syria united apparently in 1958 but Hafiz al-Asad was also a part of this union. According to George; This unionist marriage was unhappy and in September 1961 it ended with the rightist putsch in Damascus. After 18 months of turmoil in the country†¦In 1966 the radicals staged an intra party coup. Syria’s resounding defeat by Israel in the June 1967 was, in which the Golan Heights were occupied, weakened the militant†¦The climax was another putsch stages by Asad, then defense minister, on 16 November 1970.2 Hafiz al-Asad exploited the 1967 defeat by Israel in order to unite Ba’ath part and military wing under Alawi clan, i.e, rural shi’a minority, but after Asad, it has been at the top of Syrian society. Ba’athist coup was encouraged initially but it showed little results; few banks and industry was nationalized, land reform extension and state established a monopoly in 1963.However, these steps were biased and to target elite to curb the anti-regime activities in 1964,and in case of land reforms, to bless Baathist coup origin, i.e., peasantry. For development, an intensive program was developed in which state investment was established to be the key driving force of economic activity in all sectors. Agriculture was focused in order to raise the living standards in rural Syria, and encouraged to run by state irrigation schemes and import substitution was boosted. Roads, railways construction were planned in collaboration with the Soviet Union and Eastern bloc with the help of

Recollection. Socrates Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Recollection. Socrates - Essay Example According to Socrates, the body acts as a prison confining the souls. In this state, the soul is limited in its quest to explore knowledge which is unchanging, unpredictable, and eternal. This is because when the soul is imprisoned within the body, it is forced to explore truth through the reception organs of the body which has its deficiency that prevents the soul from seeing what is real (Plato and Jowett 70). This article presents a critical response of the argument that Socrates puts forth for supporting his premise - since learning is a by-means of recollection, the soul must have existed separately before being joined to the body. Step in Socrates Argument Socrates shows that it is possible for the soul to exist before the body. He explains this through the theory of recollection. He bases his argument on the fact that it is possible for a person to give a correct answer when asked a question which he may not have had prior knowledge about the issue. This implies that people ar e born with some knowledge within them, and this means that the soul or the mind existed before birth. He illustrates this in a number of steps. First, he gives his opinion on how it would be wonderful if the soul is dissipated to nothingness in death. This is because death would be an eternal sleep undisturbed with worrying dreams; death would be a big blessing to humankind. But he argues that this is not the case. He illustrate that the soul is immortal existing before birth, and it continues to live even when the mortal body dies. He says that the belief in dispersion of the soul is a childish belief. He initially shows the immortality of the soul by outlining the cynical argument. He asserts that if it is true that the living originated from the dead, then it must be that the souls of people live in the other world. If they did not, then it would not be possible for them to be born again. He further gives examples of how opposite originates from the opposite (Plato and Jowett 71 ). For example, hot from cold, awake and asleep, up and down. One has to fall asleep in order to wake up, cold things can become hot and vice versa. This means that opposite must come from the opposites. This means that for the life to come from the dead there should be some aspect of life in the dead. He thus concludes that the dead are generated from the living through the process of death. The living, on the other hand, is generated from the dead through the process of birth. It is therefore prudent to conclude that the soul of the dead must exit somewhere when the person dies and they come back to the living when a new child is born. From this Socrates affirms his theory of learning through recollection. This is due to the fact that the soul has been reborn several times and has lived in this universe for many years; therefore, it has amassed a lot of knowledge. He concluded that all learning is just but recollection and no new knowledge is added to the mind since the soul knows it all. He further illustrates this through the use of the Mono slave boy who showed to have geometric knowledge even though they had not had this kind of learning before. He thus asserts that the body and soul are two separate entities. The body, he says, is mortal and after death is seen as the corpse. The soul, on the other hand, is divine, immortal and invisible; therefore, it outlasts the body. During the period when the soul is separated from the body (after death before rebirth), the soul is able to see life in its fullness without being limited by the body (Plato and Jowett 72). Socrates therefore sees death as a form of liberation which, for a philosophical mind, is a major

Ethical and Legal Issues in Health Care Practice and Policy Essay

Ethical and Legal Issues in Health Care Practice and Policy - Essay Example question of abortion, perhaps one of the most controversial topics in the field, has always been a subject of discussion, given its complex legal and ethical implications, pitting health care professionals against each other and against members of the public. Whereas it may be legal for health care practitioners to perform an abortion today, other health care professionals and members of the public still consider it unethical to do so, thereby creating an ethical dilemma in the field (Wallace, Wiegand & Warren 1997, p.586). Apart from that, other ethical dilemmas emerge at the end of life point, when health care professionals have to make the critical decision of switching off the life-support machines to permit death to occur. As if that is not enough, the issues of confidentiality, patient/practitioner relationship as well as matters to do with consent as in the treatment of underage patients often present numerous ethical dilemmas to health care professionals (Greenwood, 2014). Th is paper explores the ethical and legal issues that are relevant to health care practice and policy while incorporating critical application of selected theoretical perspectives applicable to ethics in health. Relevant ethical arguments and legal perspectives will be applied to a specific practice situation in reference to the adult learning theory of Knowles (1990). Eventually, this paper will explore the issue related to ethical and legal issues in health care incorporating professional body guidance (NMC code) and legal acts, as well as the views of theorists and philosophers. The term â€Å"ethics† has been conceptualized as â€Å"social values†, â€Å"morals† or â€Å"principles† that enable people in distinguishing between the acceptable and unacceptable social behaviour (Corning 2002, p.6); ethical values form the basis for social interaction because they are deeply entrenched in people. Health care professionals need to know ethical standards or principles and the professional

Rogers Chocolates Essay Example for Free

Rogers Chocolates Essay What is competition like in the premium chocolate industry? Which of the five competitive forces is strongest? Which is weakest? What competitive forces seem to have the greatest effect on industry attractiveness and the potential profitability of new entrants? The premium chocolate industry is having an intensive competition in Canada with the strong growth potential. Industry growth opportunity imposes increasing competition from rivals and threats of new entrance that adds pressure on overall profitability. Even though Roger’s has been able to establish its place in the chocolate industry with its strong brand recognition and products’ quality, it still needs to be on top of ever- going market changes, by continuously monitoring, crafting and updating its marketing and packaging strategies. Only then it can sustain its competitiveness from the front line rivals. For that, intensity of rivalry among competitors and the threat of new entrants are considered the strongest competitive force, given the fact that the premium chocolate market was growing at 20 percent annually. Given that Rogers’ Chocolates has successfully targeted market niche by its strategy based on differentiation, and by concentrating on narrow consumers segment comprising of affluent customers looking for a luxury experience with a superior taste or an elegant, prestigious and uncommon product, it can be said that the weakest competitive force for Rogers’ is the bargaining power of buyers and the suppliers. Differentiation and niche market remedies the opportunity of price fixing. The threat of substitute products is also at the weakest point, given the fact that Rogers’ chocolates are fairly expensive relative to others in market. Their distinctive hand-packaging process and quality ingredients are not much appealing for others to copy and imitate. The rapid growth and profit prospects factors are attractive enough to induce additional entry to this industry. For that, every chocolate producer is challenged to craft a successful strategy that is strong enough to fight for its profit in competition battle. The competition of the premium chocolate industry is strong. There are some regional brand businesses and some large companies. The key market competitors that are Rogers’s direct rivals are summarized in the table: Company Name| Price| Quality| Packaging| Distribution| Advertising| Godiva| 15 % High than Rogers on standard products and double/triple price on premium chocolate| Not as high as Rogers| Strong; glitzy, sleek modern. Chocolates of various colors molding| Retailers of gift items| Strong| Bernard Callebaut| Similar to Godiva| Good , excelled in new flavour introductions| Superior could be customized at the store| 32 stores across the West, US and Ontario| Great seasonal displays| Lindt| 90% of Rogers| Mid-range| Mid-range| Broad : mass merchandisers, drug grocery retailers| Strong| Purdys| 35% lower than Rogers| Lower than Rogers| Good| 50 locations based in malls , strongest presence in BC| Good, offers discounts on volume purchase| Rogers| Premium price, however low than Godivas Bernard Callebauts| High| hand packaging, old fashioned, not appealing to young consumers| Company owned stores; online mail orders, wholesaling, Sams Deli| Limited to Victorias area| Question 2 How is the premium chocolate industry changing? What are the underlying drivers of change and how might those driving forces individually or collectively change competition in the industry? The premium chocolate industry is showing its shift towards healthy nutrition trend and consumers’ market that is more health conscious about their diet. Purchasers are also demanding more from chocolate than its taste. In line with a broad social trend for healthier diets, the demand for organic products, including organic chocolates, is growing. Consumers are looking for products with no trans-fats, as well. Demand for dark chocolate, traditionally less popular than milk chocolate in North America is growing in part because of its heart-healthy anti-oxidant properties. With the increasing trend in healthy diet preference, the underlying drivers of change of competition in premium chocolate industry at the strongest level are the buyers’ preferences for differentiated, refined products, instead of standardized ordinary products that are no longer demanded. In addition, baby boomers generation with their disposable income are spending a lot on high quality premium chocolates. Moreover, consumers and employees are also demanding chocolate companies to follow good corporate social responsibility practices in addressing the environmental concerns in terms of how to design its packaging, procurement and operational decisions. Human rights concerns are also high in terms of consumer expectations of chocolate companies with respect of forced child labour in West Africa. All of these driving forces societal concerns, attitudes and change in lifestyles, are strong enough to shape up the competition and impose the constraint on chocolate industry profitability and competitive survival. One important underlying driver of change in the chocolate industry is the large manufacturers lobbying to change the definition of the term chocolate under USFDA guidelines, if they are successful in doing this then this could potentially have a dramatic impact on the competitive environment, with lots of cheaper products flooding the market. If lots of cheaper brands of chocolates suddenly become available and prices start dropping this could creep into the premium brand segment of the market and force companies like Rogers to lower their prices. Question 3 What key factors determine success for producers of premium chocolates? Rogers’ customers are attracted to the company because of its superior quality. Customers who tasted Rogers’ chocolate are willing to pay its high price because of Rogers’ superior quality, â€Å"Ooooh , Rogers’ That is the best chocolate I’ve ever tested. † (pg. C-185) Key factors that determine success for producers of premium chocolates, looking only at the quality and the product characteristics prospective are: * Taste and quality * Quality ingredients * Price * Package * Advertising * Distribution. The key factors that determine success for producers at the functional levels are: * Marketing – The appeal and quality of the packaging has a big impact on the sales of chocolate and a good advertising campaign to make the brand name well known * Distribution – Having a good distribution network to get product to market in a timely manner and favourable display space * Technology – The use of new technology to reduce labour intensive production methods to reduce production costs * Manufacturing- The availability of labour, ability to produce quality product and achieving economies of scale * Skills Capability- Having talented employees with knowledge of chocolate to continue product innovation, required production management and supply chain management skills and software for accurate decision making * Other- Location of retail stores are also important. * Strong leader and management team who agree on the companies strategic vision and are able to communicate it successfully to all employees Question 4 What does a SWOT analysis of Rogers Chocolates reveal about the prospects for companys future success? What are its key resources strengths and competitive capabilities? its resource weaknesses and competitive liabilities? its external opportunities and threats? Roger’s Chocolates has a good base to succeed in the chocolate industry and increase their market share in Canada and internationally by revamping their brand image, improving their internal production process, increasing their online sales, building stronger management teams, investing in technology to improve their production schedule, forecasting and marketing. The SWOT analysis presented below highlights the company’s strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats: Strengths and Competitive Capabilities * One of the oldest chocolate companies in Canada with a wide range of the highest quality unique chocolate assortments including: an Ice cream line, specialty products, no-sugar added chocolates * Use of natural ingredients. * The company has an impressive loyal customers base around the world * Loyal employees that share company’s value for the higher quality of products * Superior quality of company’s products; in 2006 the company won prestigious Superior Taste award from the International Taste Quality Institute * Company provides excellent retail experience and in 2000 won the Innovative Retailer of the Year award Weaknesses and Competitive Deficiencies * Higher priced products * Labour intense and costly production process. * The company didn’t establish standards to measure its productivity or efficiency * Difficulties with the evaluation of seasonal customers demand, as a result the company carries large inventories * Seasonal problems with out-of stock items result in loss of sales, and production schedule chaos * Unreliable suppliers of art tins. * Unattractive packaging to younger consumers * Difficulty with the prediction of the required production volume of ice cream * Interruptions of the production process with the special orders commitments * Employees resistance to change * Lack of organic or fair trade capabilities Market Opportunities * Projected premium chocolate market’s growth at 20% annually, as baby boomers consume more premium chocolates. * Increased demand for organic and dark chocolates * Pre- Christmas sales demand is growing * Strong brand recognition in the Victoria area, and a â€Å"corporate gift of choice† * Possibilities of Increasing online orders * Cruise port travellers. * Become supplier to Butchart Garden’s gift shop and other tourist destinations on Vancouver Island * 2010 Olympics External Threats * Threat by Hershey’s and Cadbury companies which are growing their presence on the premium chocolate market by acquiring and taking over small companies. * Growing environmental concern * Growing customers concerns related to West Africa’s child labor rights * Some of the big corporate purchasers of Roger’s products such as Second Cup and the Bay switched to low cost providers and concentrate on developing their own line of products * Decline of the US dollars * Poor wholesale presentation of Rogers’ products * Poor Brand recognition outside of BC Question 5 How would you describe Rogers Chocolates competitive strategy? How is it positioned in the industry? What specific steps has management taken to implement this strategy? Do the companys functional strategies and tactics appear to be consistent with its competitive strategy? Rogers’ Chocolate functional strategies are consistent with their competitive strategy. Of the five generic competitive strategies (overall low-cost provider, broad differentiation, focused low-cost, focused differentiation and best-cost provider) the one that best aligns with Roger’s Chocolate competitive strategy is focused differentiation. A focused differentiation strategy means that the company concentrates on serving a narrow buyer segment or niche market. Roger’s Chocolates targets affluent customers with high disposable incomes specifically baby boomers, established families, middle-aged childless couples and empty nesters. Roger’s Chocolates is positioned in the industry as a manufacturer, distributor and retailer of premium chocolates, its main products being high quality, hand-wrapped chocolates. Specific steps Roger’s Chocolates’ management has taken to implement this focused differentiation strategy included * Setting a high price point for its products * Individually hand wrapping their products to give it an elegant, prestigious and uncommon look. * Targeting cruise ship visitors and tourists, as these people tend to have higher disposable income and fit the target demographic. * Advertising in guide magazines and Enroute magazine Air Canada flights to reach tourists as well as seasonal print, radio and TV advertising. The company’s functional strategies and tactics is consistent with its competitive strategy as demonstrated by the tight control it exerts over its brand image, it refuses to lower is prices to compete as this might cheapen its brand image, it also rejected the idea to franchise because it did not want to lose control over the brand and pricing, its manufacturing facility is labour intensive because the company places value on having hand wrapped chocolates. Question 6 How well is Rogers Chocolates strategy working in terms of the financial performance it is delivering? What is your assessment of its level of profitability, its degree of liquidity, and the extent of its leverage? | | | | 2006| 2005| Profitability Ratios| | | | | Growth Profit Margin| | 54. 56%| 55. 16%| Operating Margin| | | 9. 73%| 12. 68%| Net Profit Margin| | | 7. 52%| 8. 92%| Return on Total Assets| | 10. 62%| 12. 57%| Return on Equity| | | 15. 71%| 22. 36%| | | | | | | Liquidity Ratios| | | | | Current Ratio| | | 136. 66%| 124. 49%| Quick Ratio| | | 46. 12%| 57. 85%| Working Capital| | | 625,109| 569,876| | | | | | | Leverage Ratios| | | | | Debt-to-Assets Ratio| | 32. 43%| 43. 88%| Long-Term Debt-to-Capital Ratio| 15. 21%| 22. 79%| Debt-to-Equity Ratio| | 48. 00%| 78. 18%| Long-Term Debt-to-Equity Ratio| 17. 94%| 29. 51%| Times-Interest-Earned Ratio| | 12. 61| 17. 49| | | | | | | Activity Ratios| | | | | Days of Inventory| | | 104. 64| 105. 24| Inventory Turnover| | | 3. 49| 3. 47| Average Collection Period| | 11. 06| 22. 86| Although Rogers is profitable in 2006, their sales and profit are down slightly from 2005. Gross margin is consistent but all other profitability measures are down. ROE is reduced 6% from 2005. The company’s operating margin is reduced 3%, reducing profitability from operations. The company’s current ratio has increased from 1. 24 to 1. 37, but the quick ratio has decreased. The company increased their ability to pay the current debt. The working capital has also increased, giving the company more funds to purchase equipment and investment. The company is in a very good leverage position. The long-term debt –to capital ratio is 15% in 2006, giving them more capacity to borrow additional funds. All leverage ratios have improved from 2005 except times interest earned. In addition, due to Sam’s Deli $200k increase in salaries and benefits increase, the selling and administrative expense have increased, leaving cash at only $112,185 in 2006. The days of inventory are more than 100 days. Since the company spends a lot of cash on inventory and equipment, so there is a big concern that Rogers may not have enough cash and receivables to pay its payables and long term debt. Question 7 What specific actions should Steve Parkhill undertake to improve Rogers competitiveness in the Canadian Premium Chocolate Industry? How will the culture of the organization impact Parkhills decision? As a relatively new CEO, how would you suggest that Parkhill reconcile the competing growth suggestions championed by various members of the Board of Directors? Place Open a small location in Butchart Gardens to tap into the change in tourist travel patterns. Open franchising location outside of Victoria/Vancouver/BC area if they are profitable given ROI/NPV valuation, provided there is a good franchise agreement that can maintain the image of Rogers Chocolates. Boost efforts in capturing and creating a competitive advantage in the online store and corporate gift markets. Establish wholesale or reseller relationship with American companies, at least in the Seattle area due to its close proximity to BC/Vancouver, which will allow Rogers to better reach the affluent target market in the States. It should extend its wholesale distribution outside of British Columbia, especially to Ontario which is its second largest geographical market. Promotion Provide wholesalers/retailer with more incentives, such as sales promotions, especially in the important seasonal periods to improve the display of in-store Rogers products. Instead of obtaining more stores in the Vancouver or BC area, which is capital intensive, provide greater incentives, such as discounts or sales promotions, for more retail/wholesale channels to offer Rogers products, and to gain more prominent in-store displays to increase sales through the 2010 Olympics. Increase the advertising budget to include other provinces, and more mass marketing. Product Reduce the number of products offered to premium products that only have a history of selling well, and have good growth/profitability potential due to derived demand. Keep the brand identity/integrity, but update and standardize the packaging so that it is more modern, appealing and consistent. Operations Divest the ownership of Sams Deli, and concentrate on selling core products from a smaller retail space within Sams Deli. Rogers should improve production processes, lower labour costs, increase efficiency, lower lead-time and inventory on hand. Most of these can be achieved through computerization (ex. accounting, forecasting, scheduling), normalization of sales history, and better demand forecasts. If it can do this, then initially it does not need to increase capacity. If it cannot, then it should relocate off island where the production facilities are more modern, and transportation is cheaper. Improve the company’s management teams communication and change its silo mentality. The culture of Rogers is very good, and provides a strong resource that cannot be easily copied by competitors. Instead of changing it, the new CEO should communicate and educate the staff and board of directors that the changes implemented will improve the long-term outlook of the Rogers while maintaining its long roots, and keeping its core values and approach to business. Since the majority of the board of directors are owners of the business, and require the CEO to double or triple the business, they have vested interest in the long term outlook of Rogers Chocolates. As such, their concerns and varying strategies can be set aside if he effectively communicates that his chosen strategy, of refocusing on a niche differentiating strategy, will improve profitability and growth.

The World Largest Brand Name Apparel Marketers Marketing Essay

The World Largest Brand Name Apparel Marketers Marketing Essay Levis Strauss and Company is one of the world largest brand-name apparel marketers. Levis Strauss and Company is one of the successful Jeanswear shop in America States. The innovation of the rivets in the jeans differentiated Levis jeans from others because of its increased durability. (Levis) The Fast changes in consumer tastes, competition from both lower and higher-end brands, the fast development in the modern distribution and sales technology has brought about a continuing loss of market share. (Levi Strauss Co. Marketing Plan) Levis Strauss and company was established in 1873, Levis jeans are the original, authentic jeans. They are the most successful, widely recognized and often imitated clothing products clothing product in the history of apparel. Over successive generations, Levis jeans have captured the attention, imagination and loyalty of diverse individuals. (Levis) As the inventor of the category, the Levis brand continues to define jean wear with the widest range of products available, from quintessential class such as the famous Levis 501 Original jean, to favorite fits and styles in the Red Tab and premium collections. (Levis) 1.1 Mission To sustain responsible commercial success as a global marketing company of branded apparel. They must Balance goals of superior profitability and return in investment, leadership market positions and superior product and services. They will conduct their business ethically and demonstrate leadership in satisfying their responsibilities to their communication and to society. (Levi Strauss Co. Marketing Plan) 1.2 Vision Levis Strauss brands are filled with examples of the key role their value have played in meeting consumer needs. Four core values are at the heart of Levi Strauss Co Empathy, Originality, Integrity and Courage. These four values are linked. As Levis look at their history, a story of how Levis core values work together and are the source of their success. Likewise, Levis brands embody many of the core values that consumers live by. This is why Levis brands have stood the test of time. 2. Objective The objectives of Levis brand continues to define Jeanswear with the widest range of product available, from quintessential classics, such as the famous Levis Original jean, to favourite fits and styles in Red Tab and premium collections. Levis jeans have captured the attention, imagination, and loyalty of generations of diverse individuals. The brand has continues received critical acclaim from industry insiders. The brands profile is growing internationally. Levis Strauss and company next target focus to expand more in different city flagship store. To review Levis Jeanswear market situation of the global highlighting the competitive positions and branding strategies of the market. To identify the successful branding strategies Levis Jeanswear has employed to achieve its dominant market position. To evaluate on the effectiveness of Levis Jeanswear branding strategies in sustaining its sales performance. 3. Situation Analysis Situation analysis is a marketing term, and involves evaluating the situation and trends in particular companys market. Situation analysis is often called the three C, which refers to the three major elements that are Company, Customers, and Competition. Company Despite these reductions Levi Strauss Company had most of its early success because the firm was behaving monopolistically. The company patented the riveted jeans, increasing durability, and gaining popularity. Levis Strauss Co. maintained its corporate responsible image and progressive stance on social, labor, and environmental issues, which may have long run profit opportunities. Customers There is many Levis Jeanswear loyalty to maintain existing customers. Levis Jeanswear is the youthfulness of their brand jeans. The 501 product line and the Red Tab collection offer jeans that appeal to younger consumers competing with the high-end jean competitors. Competition Competitors successfully were able to take from Levis market due to heavy advertising and branding. Branding was especially effective for companies like Calvin Klein that targeted high-end consumers. Levis jeans may be physically the same as its competitor physically competitors, consumer preferences are affected by brand name. 3.1 SWOT analysis Levis opportunities and threats Levis Strauss, Levis Strauss Co. is one of the worlds largest brand-name apparel marketers with sales in more than 110 countries. There is no other company with a comparable global presence in the jeans and casual pants markets. Nowadays Levi Strauss develops technological higher production and coordination activities. In addition, Levi Strauss also develop new website is convenient for consumers shopping and also develop new products and services. The constant of threats is possible recession and people less likely to spend money on trend items and economic downturns in some countries. Bad economic is also an issue for Levis Strauss such as recession and the weakness of currency, people are likely to spend lesson trend items. Other than that, increasing competition from product of the higher end of the market and price wars with competitor. 3.2 Value chain analysis Support activities Primary activities Primary activities Inbound logistics: Inbound Logistics is the transportation planning in one of the major business processes. In order to achieve operational excellence, increase the merger, Levis Strauss plans common needs and external traffic inbound logistics, receiving their suppliers purchase. They stored goods production or assembly line needs. Goods may move around the organization. Operations: At this stage of product assembly or manufacturing. Self is co-produced fashion industry packaging. The design of the packaging represents the image of Levis Strauss. Outbound logistics: Collect, store and distribute the product to send along the supply chain to retailers in different countries. The retailers will send goods to outlets. Marketing and sales: The marketing communication strategies are the best ways to deliver message to consumers that Levis Strauss applied were advertising through the magazines, bill board and fashion show. Prepared to provide targeted, in order to meet consumer demand. Service: To fulfill consumers desirable, that are some things should have to concern on these; consumer always has clothes fitness problems, thus after sales service is important to exchange the size of Jeanswear or modify it. Other than that, to provide stuffs training how to service difference behavior of consumers and updating their Jeanswear information. Support activities Procurement: Levis Strauss needs of all the goods, services and materials procurement. This is because for the lowest possible price to buy the highest quality possible. This includes outsourcing that is usually done in-house business for the same from other companies and use of IT and networking technology to achieve procurement goals. Technology development: The innovation of technologies helps the Levis Strauss to sustain competitive advantage. Technology is an important of the competitive advantage. Human resources management: Levis Strauss is guided by a strong growth strategy in managing and developing its human resource capacity. Potential employees are evaluated in terms of their alignment to the companys winning characteristics which are directly linked to the Levis business strategies, mission and vision of integrity, courage, empathy and originality. Firm infrastructure: The formal systems of planning finance quality control, information management and the structures and routines that are part of an organizations culture. 3.3 PEST analysis The remote environment comprises factors that originate beyond and usually irrespective of, any single firms operating section: political, economic, social and technological factors. That environment presents firms with opportunities, threats, and constraints, but rarely does a single firm exert any meaningful reciprocal influence. Political factor: Political factor is very important to make sure the growth of the clothing industry in America States. With the peaceful environment, America States became one of the worlds attractive fashion destinations. (Easy club) Economic Factor: One of the main beneficiaries of the recession is the value clothing sector as consumers spend most on discretionary items with increased caution. According to Verdict forecasts, America States clothing spends in 2009 had declined 0.6%. However, estimation that value clothing sales will grow by 5.0%. Grocers are expected to make further gains in 2009 and increase their share of the value clothing market to 34.2%. In long term, the gains that grocers to be made will prove a further threat to value clothing specialists by improving store environments and fully exploiting multichannel capabilities. Social factor: Americans become more enjoy fashion nowadays; they will conservative and old-fashioned image of traditional shops. They prefer on those shops with a trendier image, such as Levis older and often affluent consumers remain fashion conscious. Technological factor: Levis have combined the four core technology are at the heart of Levis Strauss Co Empathy, Originality, Integrity and Courage, durable and easy to care for. However, further technology on textile with other characteristics will produce, such as cellulite-reducing hosiery or moisturizing properties. Prices are likely to increase as the result of these changes in the textile technology, therefore assisting in growing the value of the market. 3.4 Porters 5 Forces Industry Competitive: Jeanswear industry is characterized by small fashion 501, but there has been a recent trend towards consolidation and economies of scale. Businesses compete on price, quality, differentiation and relationship with key suppliers. However, there are not many players that establish a reputation for bringing style and innovation to the high street. Due to this Levis has the advantage of being a high streets retail phenomenon. Bargaining power of suppliers: Suppliers do not have much bargaining the fashion industry because their products and their commercial nature of the sales forces of developed markets. Can affect the garment industry from the original input price fluctuations, but the change is a global determinants of supply and demand, rather than the bargaining power of suppliers caused. Bargaining power of customers: The buyers power is significant in that buyers can force prices down, demand higher quality products or services, and, in essence, play competitors against one another, all resulting in potential loss of industry profits. Buyers exercise more power when they are large-volume buyers, the product is a significant aspect of the buyers costs or purchases, the products are standard within Jeanswear industry, there are few changing or switching costs, the buyers earn low profits, potential for backward integration of the buyer group exists, the Jeanswear is not essential to the buyers product, and the buyer has full disclosure about supply, demand, prices, and costs. (Reference for business) Threat of new entrants: New entrants can also expect a barrier in the form of government policy through federal and state regulations and licensing. New firms can expect retaliation from existing companies and also face changing barriers related to technology, strategic planning within the industry, and manpower and expertise problems. Threat of Substituted: The substitute product in fashion industry is low. Every individual needs to wear clothes in their daily activities to prevent cold and harmful to their skin. There is no substitute other than wear clothes. The only alternative is individual can make clothes their own but this alternative rarely happen. 3.5 Ansoff matrix Existing Product New Product Existing Market New Market In Ansoff Matrix, Levis Strauss is currently in position of market penetration as Levis Strauss intends to sell its existing markets to maintain or increase the market share of current product. This can be achieved by a combination of competitive pricing strategies, advertising, sales promotion and perhaps more resources dedicated to personal selling. Other than that, increase usage by existing customer by introducing loyalty schemes; the business is focusing on markets and product it knows well. It is likely to have good information on competitors and on customer needs. On the other hand, Levis Strauss also in different position of market development intends to sell its existing product into new markets in different countries. In this stage, Levis Strauss is facing medium-high risk in entering new market as there in many popular clothes retailer in the market. The issues of new geographical, product packaging, distribution channels and different pricing policies to attract different customer or create a new market segments that is Levi Strauss planning to enter must also take into consideration. Therefore, Levis Strauss takes risk segmentation into different countries. 3.6 Porters Generic Strategies Cost Differentiation Broad Narrow Levi Strauss is paining to employ differentiation strategy to make Levis Jeanswear to be more common, Levis Strauss provides Levis 501 Original Jeanswear for men, women, teens, and children. Since launching the campaign, worldwide sales of 501 jeans have increased substantially. Although it is encouraging to see the flagship 501 line growing again, these sales increases were not incremental. So everyone is a potential customer for Levis. Levis generally appeals to more mature generations not necessarily looking to make a fashion statement. Levis makes an effort to appeal to all customers in one way or another, which been a key to their success over the years. 4. Evaluation of Suitability The suitability of the strategic options is assessed based on their compatibility with the current competitive environment of the fashion industry, Levis own corporate vision and mission and how it would sustain or improve the competitive position of the organisation. Strategic Position Concept To understand Strategy must address PEST Key environmental Driver/ Changes in industry Structure The remote environment comprises factors that originate beyond and usually irrespective of, any single firms operating section: political, economic, social and technological factors. That environment presents firms with opportunities, threats, and constraints, but rarely does a single firm exert any meaningful reciprocal influence. Porters Five-Forces Industry attractiveness competitive forces Porters essential message is that where these five forces are high, then industries are not attractive to compete in. There will be too much competition and too much pressure to allow reasonable profits. Value Chain Opportunities for vertical integration or outsourcing A value chain describes the categories of activities within and around an organisation, how Levis create a product or services 4.1 Tows matrix Levis Strauss chosen because it demonstrates how a successful company experienced great difficulties in the early 1853, but then developed a strategy that resulted in an excellent market position in the late 2003. The TOWS Matrix shown will focus on the crucial period from late 1853 to early 2003. The external threats and opportunities pertain mostly to the situation Levis Strauss faced in the United States. Strengths (S) Brand name. Access to target market with over 300 stores nationwide. Finance and access to international capital. Distribution channels and global sourcing. Weakness (W) High costs of brand protection. Lack of control over quality. Lack of control over distribution. Distribution conflicts. Opportunities (O) Largest brand-name apparel marketers with sales in more than 110 countries. Technological development higher production and coordination activities. Develop new product and services. A new market on website shipping. SO-Strategies Increase sales and supply to different countries. (S1,O1) Build technological development higher production and new production and services in different 300 stores nationwide.(S2, O2, O3) Create channels and website shipping to global sourcing. WO-Strategies High costs of production brand in markets. (W1, O1) Lack of control in technological development production and distribution. (W2, W3, O2) Improve distributor services and website shipping benefits. (W4, O3, O4) Threats (T) Possible recession and people less likely to spend money on trend items. Competition from product of the higher end of the market. Economic downturns in some countries Price wars with competitors Increasing competition. ST Meet competitors advanced design of the market. (S1, S2, T2) Economic and finance are the keys of the issue. (S3, T1, T3) Globalization increasing competitor and price wars with competitors. (S4, T4, T5) WT Reduce threat of competition by developing flexible product line. (W1, W2, W3, T1, T2) 4.2 Direction for Growth Strategic option To summarises these point from earlier section and provides examples of reasons why strategy directions or might be regarded as suitable. Strategic Environment Capability Expectations Market penetration Levi Strauss intends to sell its existing markets to maintain or increase the market share of current product. Increase usage by existing customer by introducing loyalty schemes; the business is focusing on markets and product it knows well. It is likely to have good information on competitors and on customer needs. Market development Levi Strauss is facing medium-high risk in entering new market as there in many popular clothes retailer in the market. The issues of new geographical, product packaging, distribution channels and different pricing policies to attract different customer or create a new market segments that is Levi Strauss planning to enter must also take into consideration Levi Strauss intends to sell its existing product into new markets in different countries and takes risk segmentation into different countries. Differentiation Differentiation strategy to make Levis jean to be more common. Levi Strauss provides Levis 501 Original Jeanswear for men, women, teens, and children. So everyone is a potential customer for Levis. Levis generally appeals to more mature generations not necessarily looking to make a fashion statement. Levis makes an effort to appeal to all customers in one way or another, which been a key to their success over the years. Ranking strategic options Options are assessed against key factors relating to the strategic position of the organisation and a score or ranking established for each option. Key strategic factors Strategic option Family ownership Increased globalisation Low-price imports Increased of marketing Good of quality control Increased sales Ranking Market penetration O X O X O ? B Market development X O X O X O C Differentiation O X O O O O A O=favourable; X=unfavourable;? =uncertain or irrelevant. A=most suitable; B=possible; C=unsuitable. Evaluation of Acceptability The acceptability of the strategic options is assessed based on the stakeholders expectations. 5.1 Stakeholders Expectations The stakeholders of Levis Strauss are comprised of shareholders, management, employees, suppliers, contributors and the customers. The shareholders are likely to accept all the strategies as they have already witnessed Levis Strauss successful turnaround and regain of profitability. The management built up more positive steps in achieving its vision and mission these initiatives illustrate the progress Levis Strauss have made in building strong, collaborative relationships with their wholesale customers. To working closely with these customers and developing plans to ensure Levis brands continue to be broadly accessible to consumers despite continued retail door closures and bankruptcies in the United States. On the other hand, the employees may be very supportive of the differentiation strategy and market development business simplifying measures recommended. The suppliers and contributors would have learnt by now to live with Levis Strauss differentiation strategy and market development their operations to fit themselves into Jeanswear operating style. Levis customers are likely to welcome the Jeanswear innovation capabilities with the creation of a Global Market Development Centre at their owned-and-operated manufacturing plant in different courtiers. Strategy 1- Market Development Key stakeholders Rewards Risks Shareholders Higher profit, performance, clear direction. Unpredictable economics crisis. Managers Performance, targets, growth, bonus. Cultural problems. Employees Rates of pay, high employment rate. Job security, time period. Trade unions Working conditions, wages rate. Legal requirements. Customers More Levis Jeanswear available. Ethical products. Suppliers High demand of resources. Delivery problems. Government Taxation. Explicit Federal laws in certain countries. General public Jobs, involvement, shares Environmental issues Strategy 2-Differentation Key stakeholders Rewards Risks Shareholders Higher profit, performance, clear direction. Loss. Managers Performance, targets, growth, bonus. Time consume, sales volume. Employees Rates of pay. Job security. Trade unions Working conditions, minimum wages. Legal requirements. Customers More choices, better quality and customer care. Ethical products. Suppliers High demand of resources. Government Taxation. Legislation. General public Jobs, involvement, shares. Environmental issues. Feasibility The feasibility of the three strategic options is assessed based on the Levis Strauss current resources. Current Resources The actual resources required for the implementation of the three strategies are summarized in Table 4 under four categories: (1) product/service feasibility, (2) market feasibility, (3) organizational feasibility and (4) financial feasibility. Strategy 1- Market development Key resources Analysis Product/ Service feasibility Levi Strauss market development intends to sell its existing product into new markets in different countries. Levi Strauss must control their product and service quality, the patent strategy to maintain its brand reputation. Market feasibility The issues of new geographical, product packaging, distribution channels and different pricing policies to attract different customer or create a new market segments that is Levi Strauss planning to enter must also take into consideration. Organizational feasibility The brand and formula have to carefully designed and properly execute. Levis Strauss able to expand rapidly takes risk segmentation into different countries. Financial feasibility According to the Levis Strauss annual report 2009 that company sales and profit has increased, so there are no financial problems to support market develop strategy. . Strategy 2- Differentiation Key resources Analysis Product/ Service feasibility Levi Strauss provides Levis 501 Original Jeanswear for men, women, teens, and children. Since launching the campaign, worldwide sales of 501 jeans have increased substantially. market feasibility The flagship 501 line growing again, these sales increases were not incremental. So everyone is a potential customer for Levis. Levis generally appeals to more mature generations not necessarily looking to make a fashion statement. Organizational feasibility Levis generally appeals to more mature generations not necessarily looking to make a fashion statement. Levis makes an effort to appeal to all customers in one way or another, which been a key to their success over the years. Financial feasibility According to the Levis Strauss annual report 2009, the sales and profit of the company has increased, so there is no financial problem to support franchising strategy. However, the in-store advisor service is free of charge; Levis Strauss has to cover this expense from other sectors. Selection of One Strategic Option for Implementation The above evaluation data have indicated that in fact all the two strategic options are equally important and necessary for the future growth of Levis Strauss and should be implemented to the long term benefits of Levis Strauss. The complexity and risks in implementation of the two options are summarized in below. Strategic Option Implementation Requirements Complexity Risk (1) Market development Involves higher capital injection management ingenuity to implement in view of other competitors Hardest with higher risks (2) Differentiation Involves strong management will and resolve to implement. Changing staffs working attitudes and instituting a new Levis 501 Original Jeanswear for men, women, teens, and children. Launching the campaign, worldwide sales of 501 jeans have increased substantially would need a lot of patience and tact. Medium hard, needs management will and tact Naturally, among the two strategic options, the strategic option 2 should be selected as the first choice since it can be implemented quickly and getting faster results. Implementation From the evaluation above, Levis Strauss select differentiation strategy to achieve their vision and mission. Differentiation strategy helps Levis Strauss to expand further more different gender and different ages to wear Levis Jeanswear and establish the brand as a fashion authority in every city. The implementation strategy can describe in three sections, which is resources management, organizational structure and management of change. Key issues Analysis Resources management Resource management refers to the possibility under discussion is a factor. Levi Strauss has confirmed that the factor is the most likely way to work. Levi Strauss can use the budget or other performance management tools to study the effectiveness of differentiation strategy. Organizational structure In this stage Levis Strauss has to deal with issues regarding levels of hierarchy, together with structural form and style of management. Management of change Some management of Levis Strauss might not aware of the need for changes in strategy implementations. Thus Levis Strauss must review the speed, scope and style of the changes, in order to obtain full commitment to them. The company maintained profits by providing a wide range of products, capturing new markets and increasing its market shares. The company created barriers to entry by patents and trademarks, and by differentiating its product from generic jeans. However as more firms entered the market, the company started losing customers and incurring losses. The upstart companies captured niche market shares from Levi Levis s immense market domination. Despite this reduction of sales, Levi Strauss Co. maintained its corporate responsible image and progressive stance on social, labor, and environmental issues, which may have long long-run profit opportunities. Conclusion This report had analyzed the situation and the growth strategy of Jeanswear line of Levis Strauss. The evaluation of the suitability, acceptability and feasibility had examined on chosen options. The options are products and services development and differentiation strategy. The strategy chosen is differentiation strategy to achieve the mission and vision. The launch of differentiation strategy helps Levis Strauss to expand their business effectively and efficiently. By respond quickly to emerging trends, Levis Strauss has become a successful fashion retailer within the shortest possible lead times to carve out a reputation for its ability.

Human Resources Planning at Tata Consultancy Services Limited

Human Resources Planning at Tata Consultancy Services Limited About the Company: Tata Consultancy Services Limited (TCS). Tata Consultancy Services Limited (TCS): is a software services consulting company, one of the largest provider of information technology and business process outsourcing services in Asia. Tata Consultancy Services Limited (TCS) is a flagship subsidiary of one of Indias largest and oldest conglomerate company, the Tata Group, which has interests in areas such as energy, telecommunications, financial services, manufacturing, chemicals, engineering, materials, government and healthcare. 2.1 Analysis of business factors in Tata Consultancy Services Limited (TCS) The major factors that are taken into account while planning the human resource planning are: -Schedule of available resources -Skills of available resources Some of the minor factors: -Personality conflicts among the employees -Attendance History of the employees -Team player -willingness to work on given project Additional major factors: -Production forecasting -economic conditions which may cause the company to lay-off or cut-back, or increase their workforce. Issues in Tata Consultancy Services Limited (TCS) The compensation management practices of Tata Consultancy Services Limited (TCS) have taken as the major issues here. Their compensation management system was based on the Economic Value Added (EVA) model. By implementing this model in to the business, the salary of employees comprised of two parts of fixed and variable. The fixed salary will reach employees without any delay, but the variable part of the salary was arrived only after considering business unit EVA, Corporate EVA and also individual performance EVA. Based on this calculation, the employees can earn their salary. In the last quarter of the financial year 2007-2008, Tata Consultancy Services Limited (TCS) has announced that it is in the critical situation, so as it has planned to slash 1.5% of the variable component of employees salaries since its EVA targets were not met by the third quarter of the financial year. This announcement is not only for Tata Consultancy Services Limited (TCS) employees but also to the entire Indian IT industry. 2.2 Assessment of Human Resource Requirements in Tata Consultancy Services Limited (TCS) The Company viewed their employees as their assets, so they have more concentrated on the efficient utilization of those assets. Tata Consultancy Services Limited (TCS) had drawn criticism for its compensation structure. In view of the employees, the salaries were not on a par with industry standards. It has started to loss its employees as not in the situation to follow the Employee Stock Options (ESOP), which is being followed by its competitors. ESOP is one of the emerging tools to retain the employees with the Tata Consultancy Services Limited for a long time. In this situation, the management was collapsed with the current policies, and it tends to modify the strategies as per their norms in order to meet employees requirements as well as the targets setted by the company. To overcome the problem occurred, it is suggested by the Tata Consultancy Services Limited (TCS) senior management to constantly keep the employees track of the vast intellectual assets, their skill sets, the status of projects on which they were working. Then, they have started to assess the required number of people available to be placed in the other new projects. 2.3 Developing human resource plan in Tata Consultancy Services Limited (TCS) The human resource plan can include the assigned skill sets of the resources for a project and the degree in which they will be used. The plan should incorporate with the resources, the time and degree of usage, task or areas of applied resources. The following model relies on gap analysis and which links the human resource planning to overall business planning. Workforce Analysis in Tata Consultancy Services Limited (TCS) It is the process of analyzing and understanding the workforce and planning for projected shortages and surpluses in specific occupations and skill sets. In Tata Consultancy Services Limited (TCS), workforce analysis should be made based on their projects. So that only they can realize the needs to assess the further requirements or improvements what is to be made to the current plan. Internal Scan in Tata Consultancy Services Limited (TCS) What are the factors which affecting the Tata Consultancy Services Limited internally, that is to be identified. Then the required steps can be taken to create a solution and to enhance the HR capacity in order to meeting the Tata Consultancy Services Limitedal goals. The internal factors may be as: work environment, quality of work life, relationship with their peers/subordinates, etc., In Tata Consultancy Services Limited (TCS), internal factor which affecting HR capacity might be their compensation structure. Definitely, it will lead to create a problem while attaining the goals. So that, the grievances must be monitored by the management and also they should take preventive measures. External Scan in Tata Consultancy Services Limited (TCS) External scan means all environmental factors in which affecting the workforce capacity, HR priorities and emerging issues. Gap Analysis in Tata Consultancy Services Limited (TCS) After scanning the external factors, gap analysis can be made. It may consider the current and future HR needs. Priority Setting and Work Plan in Tata Consultancy Services Limited (TCS) Based on Tata Consultancy Services Limited (TCS)s priorities, environmental scan, and HR performance related data: major human resource priorities, strategies to achieve the desired outcome. Monitoring, Evaluating and Reporting in Tata Consultancy Services Limited (TCS) The human resource plan ends up with monitoring and evaluating the workforce capacity and then reporting the results of the performance to measure performance, set targets, and finally the results can be integrated together to make decisions and to determine the future priorities. 2.3 Evaluation of Human Resource Plan in Tata Consultancy Services Limited (TCS) The above developed human resource plan can be implemented by Tata Consultancy Services Limited (TCS) to overcome the above said problem. There are few things that apply to most human resources planning functions, and are important in making the process effective, or even to make it part of creating a competitive advantage in the marketplace. Human resource planning needs to be linked with the larger business planning or strategic planning process. It is not an end up process. The function is mean to support and enable the company to attain its business goals, so as such it needs to be linked to and driven by those business or strategic goals. HR planning is lead by the HR department and it should remember the whole process is to serve stakeholders and customers of the HR department. It cant be effective without an understanding of the company or Tata Consultancy Services Limited, its managers and employees, its mission and issues, etc and the environment in which it works. 3.1 Purpose of HRM policies in Tata Consultancy Services Limited (TCS) Human Resource Management policies are the tool for communicating a companys basic management philosophies, commitment to fair employment practices and equal opportunity, and the expectations of employees. HR Manuals are primarily used to provide HR personnel with a systematic approach for handling human resources related activities to ensure company policies are enforced. It is designed to define policies and procedures that support basic management philosophies, outline company rules and requirements, clarify the companys expectations of its employees, and describe lines of authority and levels of responsibility. The HR manual provides a means for formalized, systematic documentation and communication of those policies and practices established by the company. HR policies ensure that everyone in the Company/Tata Consultancy Services Limited is treated fairly and consistently and that their contributions to the success of the Company are appropriately recognized and rewarded. All employees shall be fully aware of what the Company expects of them and what they, in return, should expect from the Company. HR Policies summarize the Companys responsibility to individuals and their responsibility to the Company. 3.2 Impact of Regulatory Requirements on HR Policies Every country has its own regulations, laws and regulatory bodies or agencies governing the manufacturing, sales, marketing and distribution of products within the country. Also, every employee of the Company shall, in his business conduct, comply with all applicable laws and regulations, both in letter and in spirit, in all the territories in which he operates. The impact of regulations on policies of firms especially those who are technology-based limits the venture capital funding for these firms and affect what they can or intend to do and eventually limiting their capabilities to employ new hands thereby affecting the socio-economic fibre of the society.