Political Economy an Example of the Topic Economics Essays by

Political Economy by Expert Prof J.F | 23 Dec 2016 Security worries about great created in China beat the world news in 2007, with 66% of the reviews the United Stated Product Safety Commission gave in January to June attached to Chinese made items. As a rule the Chinese cried foul at the review and even started to give alerts of its own against American merchandise, generally food stuffs, being brought into China. Yet, everything indicates a worldwide political economy question that must be settled by more severe activities than single item reviews and a pissing match between two of the globes atomic forces. To comprehend the goals to the contention and even the profundity of what it intends to the universes economy, we should initially comprehend what occurred and attempt to distinguish why and how it occurred. Need article test on Political Economy point? We will compose a custom article test explicitly for you Continue For most Americans, the issue of Chinese imports went to the front line in February and March of 2007 when practically every kind of wet feline and pooch food available and a few dry assortments were reviewed. Toward the start of the review, the Product Safety Commission was even certain what wasn't right with the item, then again, actually it was causing high occurrences of kidney disappointment in family unit pets. Inevitably, the issue was connected to melamine, a type of plastic, in the rice gluten imported from China to make pet food (AMVA, 2007). Before long there was a review on Chinese toothpaste tainted with the synthetic concoctions that make radiator fluid harmful, a huge amount of toys reviewed for utilization of lead paint and just as of late, a toy reviewed on the grounds that it contained a compound like the date-assault sedate GHP(greentimes.org, 2007). The fundamental reason for every one of these reviews is inconsistent private enterprise all through the world. At the turn of the twentieth century in the United States, Upton Sinclair composed a Pulitizer Prize winning novel called The Jungle which sketched out the revulsions of the food-pressing industry. Despite the fact that later exploration shows that some meat-pressing plants are still a long way from clean, The Jungle constrained a kind of commanded amendment on the American production line framework. At that point, with the expansion of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration to ensure laborers and the expansion in association quality paving the way to World War II, Americans requested that their legislature shield the laborers and the buyer from possibly risky things. The quarrelsome idea of the American culture may have contributed to some degree to the turn of events, yet the short form was that American organizations built up a type of self-policing accepting that free enterprise with government guideline worked. In any case, at that point in the most recent decade or somewhere in the vicinity, the world turned out to be increasingly associated and American organizations started to send work to different territories, regions without a background marked by free undertaking and fights in court over item obligation. They believed that indicating in an agreement that toys couldn't be painted with toxic paint would make it so. Furthermore, they imagined that they could get all the assurances which are incorporated with the American manufacturing plant framework at a small amount of the cost. They weren't right. Further muddling things is that America organizations misjudged the world. They expected that all individuals would have indistinguishable qualities and conviction frameworks from they did. Nobody at any point mulled over the human science of the spot that they were working with. In Communist China, laborers who became somewhat ill, or even kicked the bucket from their toothpaste, would not be recording multi-million dollar claims over the undertaking. Also, unquestionably nobody would be figure they ought to be remunerated in light of the fact that the pooch or feline food executed a pet. Lead paint was the least expensive, so obviously they would utilize it on their items, who wouldnt? In the buyer driven American culture, organizations couldn't envision anybody being so thoughtless with the wellbeing of their clients as to harm something that is intended to be placed in the mouth or add plastic to pet food. The total divergence of the social condition at that point prompts an aggravating of the political contrasts between the two nations. From the point of view of the American open, the Chinese has made items that: Convenient infant swings that entangle youths, bringing about 60 reports of cuts, wounds and scraped spots; Pool stepping stools that break, bringing about 127 reports of wounds, including leg gashes requiring up to 21 join, five reports of bone cracks, two back wounds, two reports of torn tendons and eight hyper-extended lower legs; Broken infant transporters that bring about children dropping out and getting wounded, getting skulls split and hospitalizations; Simple Bake Ovens that trap youngsters' fingers in openings, bringing about consumes; Swaying tower fans whose defective wiring brings about flames, consumes and smoke inward breath wounds; Detonating vacuum apparatuss that have brought about 13 gashes including six facial wounds and one to the eye; Deal valued oil-filled electric radiators, selling for under $50, that torch homes; Note pad PC batteries that consume PCs, cause other property harm and consume clients; Roundabout saws with flawed edge monitors that bring about cutting clients, not wood From the Chinese point of view, American purchasers were ruined and overcompensating. To a few, it gave the idea that the Americans were exposing everything to tough guidelines that they would not hold themselves to. What's more, the Chinese government responded by investigating and dismissing American imports set out toward China, asserting that food was tainted with ants and that soybeans were bound with form (China rejects, 2007). What's more, beside the couple of hundred individuals overall influenced by the item reviews, the genuine casualty in the whole chaos is the exchange balance between the United States and China and the effect that the reviews have on buyer trust in the United States. China has been conceded most preferred country status by the United States, implying that there are not many taxes on merchandise imported from China. Also, china has a positive offset of exchange with the United States meaning they send out additional to the U.S. than they import from it, a decent spot for them to be regarding world economies. In any case, having millions or even billions of dollars of items returned on account of item security reviews. The main to keep the Communist government upbeat is to limit imports during the time that the fares are diminished. What's more, at that point you have two ideologically unique government in a stupendous contention over whose items are progressively corrupted. The main champ in that situation is a country that is uninvolved. The main individuals who endure are the individuals who miss out due to the lost imports. For the American purchaser, the main Christmas season without Chinese toys will likely be met with a murmur of alleviation and the mixed up conviction that they are staying away from the security issues of the Chinese imports. Be that as it may, as costs rise and the essential expenses of living increment, the loss of the universal imports will hurt the American economy. On the opposite end, the loss of the American imports will hurt the Chinese people significantly more quickly. A large portion of the American imports being dismissed were food items and with 1.3 billion individuals, China needs to import for its kin. Food creation was up this year in different pieces of the world, however the American breadbasket takes care of enormous hunks of the world. On the off chance that American soybeans are dismissed, china needs to search somewhere else for its food. Significantly increasingly troubling from a financial point of view is the influence that the review has on buying examples and economies. In October, 2007, the American Treasury Secretary Henry Paulson said that purchaser dread over the reviews is causing significant issues with the American economy (CNN, 2007). Paulson then approached the two governments to cooperate to relieve fears and evade global monetary repercussions identified with the review. Generally, Paulson is the just one associated with the whole procedure who appears to comprehend the political economy of the occasion and its repercussions. His remarks unmistakably show the requirement for participation and comprehension between the two monetary mammoths. What is not yet clear is whether they can put aside the enormous ideological issues at the national level and manage the ideological diverse by they way they work organizations. For instance, the American government should clarify that the 300 million Americans expect a specific degree of wellbeing in the things that they purchase and should make the important budgetary concessions expected to improve the security levels and the nature of crude materials in Chinese industrial facilities. American enterprises should stop taking a gander at China as a wellspring of modest work and start to cause a speculation into those manufacturing plants on the off chance that they to anticipate that them should satisfy American quality control guidelines. Moreover, the two sides should haggle all the more clear agreements so companies can fulfill guidelines immediately in finding issues. Sadly, actually the two economies are as of now associated in light of the worldwide economy. Be that as it may, if American companies keep on regarding China as simply a wellspring of modest work, they will keep on having a great many reviews that decimates corporate benefits and subverts buyer certainty. Some portion of the necessity of a worldwide economy is the advancement of worldwide principles of creation. No longer would we be able to contend that lead paint is alright for the remainder of the world, yet not sufficient for Americans. We must have the option to see individuals as residents of the world and treat every one of its residents similarly. The idea of financial matters is to consistently search for an approach to expand benefits, yet in macroeconomics it is additionally important to take a gander at the human expenses and the ecological expenses just as the budgetary

How Language Is Used in the Workplace free essay sample

How Language Is Used in the Workplace BY Francine Spoken Language Study - ? Social Attitudes to Spoken Language Investigate discourse that is specific to a workplace.ESSAY PLAN * communicated in language utilized In workplace, my Job as a SQ, verbally expressed word diverse in various settings egg, WHQL or building website, proficient language * utilization of Jargon, three letter abbreviations, one of a kind to an office egg, CSVs and so on, specialized language, utilized often, clever re new representatives, dont understand what Is being said * popular expressions, notice content talking, proficient trendy expressions made fun f Bull Bingo, clarify game and give egg, can download a bingo card, utilized In exhausting gatherings * scripting language, utilized by programming clients not IT experts egg Trekker and so forth, bystander wont get discussion, notice involvement in a bookkeeper * look at office and typical language, non-verbal communication, eye to eye connection, lies, move when overstate a story, grasp clench hands, seminars on non-verbal communication * general communicated in language is office is proficient as well, no slang, swearing and deferential (except if on a building webpage), very non-PC (abbreviation) * particular sorts of individuals talk in an unexpected way, cannot picked who you work with, character conflicts, not youngsters * yes men, power shared is information lost, utilizing popular expression here, poor communicators, Life long utilization of Jargon so cant talk regularly to clarify things, * no tattle or gab like in a grocery store which is less loose, heads down butts up, can prompt strain, let out some pent up frustration in breaks or get-togethers outside of work, become acquainted with coworkers by and by, can make a superior workplace, productive and successful * synopsis - ? formal, political, prudent and direct. Spare their own skins that's right of individuals, gain from your own mix-ups, numerous individuals are candid and unseemly, checked in office, think before talking, dont express your real thoughts, talk how you hope to be addressed, open, formal, to the point Spoken Language Study Social Attitudes to Spoken Language Investigate discourse I am going to discuss how communicated in language Is utilized In a workplace and how it varies from communicated in language use in consistently life. I once filled in as a Quantity Surveyor and have been in a few office situations where language Is utilized that could never be heard outside of the structure. Likewise working environment language can be deferent relying on Just the setting. For instance, a Head Office fabricating, a building site and even gatherings occurring at administration stations on a motorway since participants originate from various pieces of the nation. All the more critically is that this condition is proficient and language can be formal, formal slang and key to that specific office or circumstance. We will in general utilize a great deal of Jargon and I mean a ton! The most loved utilization of this, is three their own remarkable abbreviations and you need to learn them or you will actually be left UT. For instance, CSVs (cost, worth and compromise), Final Accounts, PEE (Personal Protective Equipment) and various others.This is classed as specialized language and not an hour will pass by without somebody utilizing it and expecting the individual they are conversing with to completely comprehend what is being talked about. It is very hilarious to see the expres sion on another representatives face when discussion starts. They are attempting to comprehend and be drawing in, yet you can consider the to be behind their eyes as they lack a piece of information what is happening! I know, I have been there. Another type of specialized talking is classed as trendy expressions. Popular expressions are utilized in consistently life, for example, content talking (egg, C U LTR and LOL), yet proficient trendy expressions and expressions take on an entirely different meaning.We, as expert work force, have adjusted an approach to make our trendy expressions fun. We have a game entitled Bulls**t Bingo! This game is played oftentimes, straightforwardly, with or without a bingo card and ridiculed. On the off chance that Mr. Joe Public were in the room while this game was in activity, he would think he had been shot onto an alternate planet. Here are a couple of case of cap would be on a players game card consider some fresh possibilities, singing from a similar song sheets, rehashing an already solved problem and other such absurd articulations. You can even download one of these game cards from the Internet they are so mainstream, particularly in exhausting protracted gatherings. Other specialized terms of discourse utilized in the working environment is PC language.This isn't the sort of language that is utilized by IT Professionals, yet increasingly a kind of language utilized by the clients of the product. For instance, we have utilized software engineer, for example, Trekker and Researches. Staff will have full discussions discussing a specific developer, what challenges they are having, a specific area of that software engineer and so on. Bystanders will Just hear absurd discourse with the words and, yet and on the grounds that tossed in, in light of the fact that the bystander may have the option to comprehend th ose words verbally expressed. I have had specific experience of this when visiting another division inside a structure. I wished to get some information about a customer I was right now managing with.As I drew closer said Accountant, he was in profound discussion with one of his partners. I held up until they had completed and courteously enquired what the trouble was. My Accountants reaction was Oh you wouldnt comprehend, and he was correct, I didnt comprehend an expression of what they were stating! There are likenesses between communicated in language inside a working environment and general communicated in language. For instance, we as a whole use non-verbal communication in discussion and a ton of the time we do this subliminally. We stay away from eye to eye connection when apprehensive or lying; we move more while misrepresenting a story and we grip our clench hands or move our hands behind our back when furious or irritated. In a work environment condition individuals are all the more intensely mindful of non-verbal communication and there are even courses you can go to improve you non-verbal communication and make it additionally engaging, particularly when attempting to be powerful in a contention or struggle. Are aware of others sentiments and contrasts. Except if you are on a building site that is! Language there is a remarkable inverse to an office domain, very non-PC (see another abbreviation). There are additionally specific kinds of individuals you will run over in a workplace who talk in an unexpected way. A portion of these individuals you would not care about to, UT since you are working with them your utilization of language is foremost. You should be conscious, tune in and collaborate, on the off chance that you wish to accomplish an effective spoken result. Characters will conflict, however so as to be viable, spoken (and composed) correspondence must be effective. Tormenting, forcing and crying won't accomplish wanted outcomes; we are not kids, we are experts. There will be Yes men; the individuals who state they will accomplish something and don't, or leave it for other people. There will be power shared is information lost men; the individuals who won't share thoughts and considerations inspired by a paranoid fear of losing credit for it. You will take note of that Im utilizing popular expressions). There will likewise be poor communicators who have been deep rooted clients of language and blow up or baffled when they are not comprehended by others since they lose the capacity to utilize typical language to guarantee they are reasonable. In proficient workplaces there is next to no prattle and babble. Heads are down and butts are up (Bingo! , though in a work environment which is progressively loose, say a Supermarket, jabber is increasingly bottomless and worthy. This, on occasion, can prompt strain in the work environment, so regularly experts will babble at breaks and guarantee cap they are away from the workplace. Additionally I have discovered that in this sort of working environment condition, get-togethers are masterminded routinely so laborers can let out some pent up frustration and become acquainted with one another by and by. This thusly makes a superior workplace and individuals see each other more as they have a short understanding into that individual egg, how they think, their inclinations and so forth. With everything taken into account making an increasingly powerful and proficient type of spoken communication.In synopsis, discourse that is utilized in an expert office condition will consistently be formal, discretionary, careful (more often than not) and direct. There will be numerous who have the perspective on sparing their own skin and advising others to gain from their missteps, however there are individuals like that in some random condition. There are individuals everywhere throughout the world that are out-spoken, stubborn and thoughtlessly immediate. In an office, this is controlled and you ought to consistently think before you talk; expressing your genuine thoughts isn't commonly the perfect method to convey. A memorable note is that in any working environment, for example, this, you ought to talk how you would compose; formal, to the point and open for conversation. (1192 words)

Capture Your Stories - Guest Post by Gary Ryan

Capture Your Stories - Guest Post by Gary Ryan Capture Your Stories Guest Post by Gary Ryan, edited by Brenda Bernstein, The Essay Expert In last week’s article by Gary Ryan, How Students Can Leverage Part Time and Volunteer Work, he explained what employability skills are and why they are important for your future. This week he asks an important question: How do you capture your experiences in a useful way? Your stories are important in the context of both creating your resume (The Essay Expert’s specialty!) and preparing for an interview. Are you the right fit? Once you are in front of your prospective employers, your goal is to communicate that you are the right fit for their organization. The interview is largely about testing your personality. The interviewers already know that you have the right technical skills or a demonstrated ability to learn them. What they don’t know is whether or not you will fit in their company culture. This is where your stories about your employability skills kick in. 95% of interview questions are behaviorally based. This means that you will be asked questions that require you to provide an example about how you have demonstrated your employability skills in the past. If you haven’t prepared your answers, you will likely fumble your way through your interview. Tell us about a time… As an example, imagine being asked, “Please tell us about a time when you had to work with a difficult person.” This question is meant to elicit how well you will interact with your fellow employees. Will you be a good team member to have around the office? If you have prepared stories about teamwork, communication, leadership and problem solving, you will quickly be able to modify one of your existing stories to provide a succinct and coherent answer to this question. If you haven’t prepared your stories, your face could turn white, the blood draining from your brain: “I’m not sure. I can’t think of one right now. I know that I have worked with difficult people before but I can’t think of one right now. Sorry.” It is not unusual for these sorts of responses to be heard in an interview. How do you think the interviewers will judge your organizational “fit” with this kind of response? A structure to rely on Now here’s the good news: Interviewers have formulas that they listen for with regard to how your answers are structured. If you know the formula, you can prepare so you don’t get caught off guard. One common formula is the CAR (Challenge / Action / Result) method. When answering a question such as the one above about working with a difficult person, you might choose a CAR story that you had prepared. Let’s break down the components of a CAR story so you can create some of your own: ‘C’ is for Challenge or Circumstance. What situation sets the scene for your story? What was the context? Who were the players? What goal were you (as a team or individually) trying to achieve? What roadblocks stood in the way? Although the first place to look for CAR stories is in your work experience, some of your best examples might come from family, recreational, or other extracurricular activities. This is especially true if you are a new graduate, but might be relevant even if you are a seasoned professional. If you planned a wedding, for instance, you learned skills that will apply in any paid position where you might be asked to organize a project or event. And if you get along well with your family, that’s a great sign that you will be a great person to have in the workplace! ‘A’ is for Actions. This is where you differentiate yourself. What did you do that made a difference? Be specific and include the most pertinent actions that you undertook. In the example above, you may have recognized that part of the reason for the “difficult” person’s behavior was that you hadn’t been clear in your communication. So you may have stopped talking and just listened. Perhaps you discovered that they had misunderstood what you saidâ€"enabling you to communicate your message in a way they could comprehend. ‘R’ is for Results. This is the “So what?” part of your story. The results you have produced are some of the most important employability skills you can demonstrate. In the above example, your effective use of communication through improved listening may have resulted in a clearer understanding for the entire team of what it was trying to achieveâ€"which in turn created a high level of focus and ultimately a successful project. You might even add that a big lesson from this experience was that through effective communication, you realized that the “difficult” person in question wasn’t that difficult after all. By sharing your results, you emphasize the positive impact you can have on an organization. Reap the benefits of preparation Preparing your CAR and employability skills stories, complete with results and lessons learned, provides you with flexibility when answering questions. You will be able to simply listen to the question and then select the most appropriate story to answer it. Your answers will be well-thought-out and evidence-based, and will make your interviewers engaged and favorable toward your application. The power of telling your stories through a structure such as CAR is that it enables you to shine and reveal your personality, in addition to demonstrating how well you prepare for important meetings (yes, an interview is a meeting!). Your interviewers are then in a position to objectively judge how you would fit in the organization. If you’d like to learn more about how to prepare yourself to be a successful interviewer and Young Professional, including another powerful formula for creating your stories and examples, then access What Really Matters For Young Professionals! Gary Ryan is the Founder of Organisations That Matter, author of What Really Matters For Young Professionals! and creator of the Yes For Success online platform for creating and executing a life of balance and personal success!

Beowulf as Epic - 823 Words

What makes an epic? Is Beowulf an epic? ï‚ · ï‚ · ï‚ · What is an epic poem, and how does it differ from other kinds of poetry or storytelling? How have epic poems traditionally been transmitted from generation to generation? How do tellers remember these long and complicated stories? According to Robert Harris’s Glossary of Literary Terms, he defines an epic as the following: Epic. An extended narrative poem recounting actions, travels, adventures, and heroic episodes and written in a high style (with ennobled diction, for example). It may be written in hexameter verse, especially dactylic hexameter, and it may have twelve books or twenty four books. Characteristics of the classical epic include these: ï‚ · ï‚ · ï‚ · ï‚ · ï‚ · ï‚ · ï‚ · The main character or†¦show more content†¦9. BEOWULF is set in a male-dominated world full of violence and danger. What role does patriarchal history play in this world? Why does it matter to the warriors who their ancestors were? 10. How is BEOWULF structured? How does this structure relate to the theme or themes of the work as a whole? 11. What role does the mead-hall play in Anglo-Saxon warrior culture? What is the proper relationship between a lord and his warriors? What examples can you find throughout Beowulf? 12. What is the role of women in the heroic culture of Beowulf? 13. How does treasure function in Beowulf? How do the characters and the poet seem to feel about the element of gold, as it appears throughout the poem? 14. What role do the digressions play in Beowulf? What light do they shed on the main action? 15. Is Beowulf an ideal hero and king? Is there anything lacking in his character? 16. Would you say that the characters in Beowulf are as psychologically complex those in modern works of literature? Do they undergo any development as the poem progresses? References (APA) Harris, Robert(2010). A Glossary of LIteratary Terms. Retrieved 27 December 2011.Show MoreRelatedBeowulf : The Epic Of Beowulf1027 Words   |  5 Pages To begin, Beowulf the poem has a unknown author, Beowulf is an epic poem. In Beowulf he is challenged by the murderous monster Grendel, Grendel is eating and slaughtering Hrothgar the King of the Danes men and people, the king needs Beowulf s help in defeating Grendel, Beowulf ends up killing the monster and is now tormented by the monster s mother that is much larger, she is no match for Beowulf and he kills her as well, lastly it is Beowulf’s last battle after he has been king of Geatland forRead MoreThe Epic Of Beowulf By Beowulf2577 Words   |  11 Pagesoriginal aspects of these different religions. Due to the construction of this Beowulf, students and professors are able to study and get a true understanding of a pagans’ demeanor and how life evolves through their eyes. Throughout the epic poem Beowulf, paganism is exemplified as this epic hero falls victim to fate while embarking on his journey through life fighting monsters and chasing after his fame. To begin with, Beowulf was composed in Old English by an anonymous writer between the sixth and seventhRead MoreThe Epic of Beowulf733 Words   |  3 PagesBeowulf is the oldest anglo-saxon poem written in English. The poem describes the heroic deeds of Beowulf in his fight against monsters. Even if the events narrated in the poem take place in Denmark, the poem was transmitted by oral language between the anglo-saxon even 200 years after its creation. Anglo-saxons did not consider themselves british, but vikings, and their heroes were always from Scandinavia. The author of Beowulf is anonymous. The original poem was written on sheep tanned leatherRead More Epic of Beowulf Essay - Beowulf as Epic Hero844 Words   |  4 PagesBeowulf as Epic Hero Epic heroes usually exemplify the character traits most admired in their societies, and Beowulf is no exception.   Beowulf is set in the Anglo-Saxon society, a time when war was rampant among the many peoples trying to take over the different kingdoms of England.   In this dangerous, violent time people lived in constant peril and jeopardy.   These conditions only allowed people of great bravery to survive and men of outstanding courage were admired the populous.   TheseRead MoreThe Epic Of Beowulf As An Epic Hero1519 Words   |  7 Pageswhisked away following a journey, you have most likely read an epic. An epic by definition is â€Å"a long poem, typically one derived from ancient oral tradition, narrating the deeds and adventures of heroic or legendary figures or the history of a nation†. Every epic has a main character that undergoes the same archetypal journey as all other heroes, an epic hero. There are specific qualities one must have to be considered an epic hero. Each epic hero possesses superhuman strength, displays a strong senseRead MoreComparing Beowulf And The Epic Of Beowulf937 Words   |  4 Pagesthe Roman Empire. In the story Beowulf, his actions portray him, indeed be an epic hero. Both Christianity and Paganism are both portrayed throughout the epic Beowulf. Beowulf frequently speaks of God throughout the story, while there are also many Pagan elements that are evident throughout the story as well. In addition, It s hard to ignore the Christian and Pagan elements in Beowulf. These types of elements are what define the heroic warrior in the epic Beowulf(Vengeance the Pagan and ChristianRead MoreThe Epic Of Beowulf As An Epic Hero711 Words   |  3 Pagesthan the writer. These â€Å"epic heros† are protagonists that fulfill their potential of greatness through using their bravery, strength and humility for good. The near ancient tale of Beowulf is a classic example of an epic story that contains an epic hero. In this tale Hrothgar, the king of the Danes, has been terrorized by a beast known as Grendel. This beast has been murdering the king’s people and no one has come close to stopping this killer. A Geat warrior named Beowulf hears of the King’s predicamentRead MoreThe Epic : An Analysis Of The Epic Of Beowulf701 Words   |  3 PagesBeowulf is one of the longest surviving Anglo-Saxon poem. The epic takes place in the sixth century in what is now Denmark and Sweden. The poem opens with Hrothgar, whose successful rule is signified by a glorious mead-hall called Heorot. For 12 years, a massive man-like ogre named Grendel, a descendant of Cain, has raided Heorot and killed the kings warriors. Beowulf, a young warrior from Geatland (Sweden), comes to Hrothgar’s aid, bringing 14 of his best men with him. At a feast before the endRead MoreBeowulf : An Epic Hero930 Words   |  4 Pages The story of Beowulf shows its reader many characteristics of why this Anglo-Saxon poem is an epic. First of all, Beowulf is a warrior of epic renown by the time he formally introduces himself in the poem. Next, Beowulf is the warrior that many strive to be in life. In addition, Beowulf finds himself tackling many quests that involve dangerous beasts, or as he might call them, demons. The next quality shown by Beowulf is his bravery and honor. The reader is able to easily identify this characteristicRead MoreCulture And Values : The Epic Of Beowulf And Beowulf1260 Words   |  6 PagesAnalyzation of the Beowulf Epic and the Beowulf and Grendel Film The epic tale of Beowulf was written sometime after his death. In other words, a long time ago during the Anglo-Saxon period. Today, directors in Hollywood did not keep from creating their own rendition of this epic poem As a result, plenty of modern interpretations of Beowulf, such as Sturla Gunnarsson’s Beowulf and Grendel, have been released. Naturally, the cultural values that might be reflected in modern Beowulf renditions will

Origins and Use of Amaranth in Prehistoric America

Amaranth is a grain with high nutrition value, comparable to those of maize and rice. Amaranth has been a staple in Mesoamerica for thousands of years, first collected as a wild food, and then domesticated at least as early as 4000 BC. The edible parts are the seeds, which are consumed whole toasted or milled into flour. Other uses of amaranth include dye, forage and ornamental purposes. Amaranth is a plant of the family of Amaranthaceae. About 60 species are native to the Americas, whereas less numerous are the species originally from Europe, Africa, and Asia. The most widespread species are native to North, Central and South America, and these are A. Cruentus, A. caudatus, and A. hypochondriacus. Amaranthus cruentus, and A. hypochondriacus are native of Mexico and Guatemala. The first one is used in Mexico to produce typical sweets called alegrà ­a, in which the amaranth grains are toasted and mixed with honey or chocolate. Amaranthus caudatus is a widely distributed staple food both in South America and in India. This species originated as one of the staple foods for the ancient inhabitants of the Andean region. Amaranth Domestication Amaranth was probably widely used among hunter-gatherers in both North and South America. The wild seeds, even if small in size, are produced in abundance by the plant and are easy to collect. Evidence of domesticated amaranth seeds comes from the Coxcatlan cave in the Tehuacan valley of Mexico and dates as early as 4000 BC. Later evidence, like caches with charred amaranth seeds, has been found throughout the US Southwest and the Hopewell culture of the US Midwest. Domesticated species are usually larger and have shorter and weaker leaves which make the collection of the grains simpler. As other grains, seeds are collected through rubbing the inflorescences between the hands. Use of Amaranth in ancient Mesoamerica In ancient Mesoamerica, amaranth seeds were commonly used. The Aztec/Mexica cultivated large quantities of amaranth and it was also used as a  form of tribute payment. Its name in Nahuatl was huauhtli. Among the Aztecs, amaranth flour was used to make baked images of their patron deity, Huitzilopochtli, especially during the festival called Panquetzaliztli, which means â€Å"raising banners†. During these ceremonies, amaranth dough figurines of Huitzilopochtli were carried around in processions and then divided up among the population. The Mixtecs of Oaxaca also recognized a great importance to this plant. The precious Postclassic turquoise mosaic covering the skull encountered within Tomb 7 at Monte Alban was actually kept together by a sticky amaranth paste. Cultivation of amaranth decreased and almost disappeared in Colonial times, under the Spanish rule. The Spanish banished the crop because of its religious importance and use in ceremonies that the newcomers were trying to extirpate. Sources Mapes, Christina and Eduardo Espitia, 2001, Amaranth, in The Oxford Encyclopedia of Mesoamerican Cultures, vol. 1, edited by David Carrasco, Oxford University Press. pp: 13-14 Sauer, Jonathan D., 1967, The Grain Amaranths and Their Relatives: A Revised Taxonomic and Geographic, Annals of the Missouri Botanical Garden, Vol. 54, No. 2, pp. 103-137

Company overview Free Essays

string(74) " its operations by avoiding cultural conflicts as well as social effects\." British petroleum (BP) is one of the largest energy companies dealing in fuel for transportation, energy for heat and light, retail services and petroleum products. The company’s international headquarters is in London. The company has operations in more than 100 countries and employs over 96,000 people. We will write a custom essay sample on Company overview or any similar topic only for you Order Now The company has products under the BP, Castrol, Arco, am/pm, and Wild Bean Cafe brand (BPplc, About Bp, 2009). The company operates under two major business segments; exploration and production, refining and marketing and BP alternative energy. The company basically finds, extract, move oil and gas. The company also makes fuels and products, sells fuels and products as well as generating low carbon energy in a responsible way. The company operates in six continents; South America, North America, Europe, Australasia, Asia and Africa (Vault. com, 2009). BP is also well known for its innovative technology which aims at providing energy to meet the customers demand through efficient products. Investing in low carbon energy is also another option that the company is exploring (BPplc, About Bp, 2009). Strategic audit The strategic audit of a corporation is an eight step process that generally encompasses a holistic analysis of the company. The basic aim in strategic audit is to establish the current position which will help the company chart the way forward. A strategic audit helps the company to formulate strategies and select the best strategic alternative(s) for implementation. The first step is the analysis of the current situation. This involves the audit of the current performance and strategic posture. Current performance is evaluated in terms of profitability, market share, and return on investment. Strategic posture looks at the mission, objectives, strategies and policies (BPplc, 2009 Strategy presentation, 2009). The second step is a look at the corporate governance. This means analysis of the board of directors and top management in terms of their structure, names and contribution to the company Scanning the external environment for opportunities and threats is the next step of a strategic audit. Under this stage, the company looks at the societal environment, task environment and finally listing all the above factors. The next step is the analysis of the internal environment i. e. strengths and weaknesses. Here, the corporate structure, culture, resources (marketing, finance, research and development, operations and logistics, human resource management and information systems) is looked into. A summary of these factors is then prepared (BPplc, 2009 Strategy presentation, 2009). After looking at the external and internal environments, the company then analyses its strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats (SWOT). These are then linked to the company’s mission and objectives to establish any relevance. The next step of the strategic audit is the analysis of the strategic alternatives in order to select the best strategy (ies) to be recommended. The recommendation should be justified by looking at the potential, changes and impacts of the strategy. After making the recommendations, the next step is the implementation of the proposed strategy (ies). The implementation will include assigning duties on who is to develop these strategies. The financial aspect and operating procedures should be analyzed. The last step of the strategic audit is the evaluation and control. Evaluation and control involves a look at the current information system i. e. whether it can provide sufficient feedback and whether there are enough controls (BPplc, 2009 Strategy presentation, 2009). Strategic Alternatives In formulating the best strategic alternatives, the company has to consider the economic, socio-cultural, political-legal, technological and financial strengths and challenges facing the company. Economic environment This involves looking at the economic environment. The company operates in an industry that has other large companies e. g. Shell, Chevron, Exxon Mobil, Total and other smaller companies. All these companies have the resources and technical ability to compete at the same level as BP Plc. This is why the company has focused on cost reduction through measures like staff reduction and efficient production. The company has also focused on alternative energy e. g. solar and wind. This is as a result of the challenging operating environment where there has been a growing shift to green energy that has minimal pollution. In an industry faced with rising production costs, the company has been on track by focusing on means and ways of reducing their costs. The focus has been on reducing the number of staff and reducing the number of senior positions in the company by 20%. This strategy has borne fruit with the flattening of the cost curve of the company while those of the competitors keep on rising. The company’s focus on new technologies has resulted into improved production capacity. In fact the overall production trend for all the major companies has been declining. BP Plc. has defied this trend by increasing its production in the year 2007-2008. The technology used by the company includes Advanced Gas Injection and Water flood technologies that have enabled the company to push the limits of the reservoirs. The drop in oil prices means declining revenues. In order to increase revenues, the company has focused on reducing the performance gap by restoring revenues in areas like Toledo, improving supply optimization in petrochemical and marketing. The company area of focus for petrochemicals is Asia where there is rising demand. The company has also established value chains for its fuel production. Value chains are those activities that create value from the supply to the final delivery to the consumer. This has been achieved through integrated supply and trading which has lead to more revenues. In a bid to increase its oil reserves, the company has also partnered with TNK of Russia. The partnership has resulted in 30% increase in production. Socio-cultural The company has tried to endear itself to the community in which it operates. BP achieves this through training and employing local staff at all levels. The aim here is to be a local company by creating partnerships with the local community. BP strategic aim is to reduce the levels of resistance to its operations by avoiding cultural conflicts as well as social effects. You read "Company overview" in category "Papers" The company has entered into partnerships with the local community in terms of education, encouraging enterprise, fostering good governance, partnership in public health, access to energy, giving and volunteering, safeguarding human rights, as well as development through community case studies. All these activities are targeted at enhancing and fostering the relationship between the company and all the community in which it operates thus reducing conflicts between the community and the company. Political-legal Some of the challenges that the company could face are the political/ legal. This is because the company has operations in many countries that may be subject to political instability. To mitigate this, the company has formed partnerships with local companies and thus reduces resistance towards the company consequently the company is able to increase its operations and revenues. Rigid legal regimes concerning the operations of foreign companies may negatively impact the operations of the company. The company has reduced this by engaging in partnerships with local companies. Taxation and licensing may vary from country to country. This may have negative impacts on the company’s operations. Exploration and production rights may not be granted to the company. BP has overcome this challenge by partnering with the governments of respective countries through agreements. Technological In a bid to improve its operations and increase productivity, the company has adopted innovative technologies. Some of these technologies include the Bright water which uses new inter-well polymer treatment which ultimately improves water flood Recovery. The Company has focused on technology to come up with innovative approaches that can increase production as well as solve energy challenges Financial information BP plc has been able to grow its net income by 39% to $26. 2 billion which is the highest growth rate registered by major energy companies. Cash flow from operations also grew 54% to $ 38. 1 billion on a year on year percentage basis. The company was also the only super major to register growth in reported volumes in new reserves. The company registered a growth of 1% on year on year percentage basis. Apart from operations, the company utilizes debt to finance its activities. The debt is at the rate of 20-30%. All these financial data indicates that the company is focused on growth by efficiently using its cash resources to generate more sales and improve on the shareholders wealth by engaging in share buy backs. Recommended strategy Based on the analysis of all the above factors, some of the available strategies are; – Cost reduction strategies – Alternative energy by diversification – Focus on growing markets growth – Creating value on existing products – Partnership to grow – Technology leadership – Continuous improvement These strategies can be broadly classified into two directional i. e. growth and retrenchment strategies. The company can utilize the growth strategies in its upstream segment (exploration and production) and retrenchment strategies on its down stream business (refining, convenience, refining) (Wheelen, 2006) Implementation of the strategy Strategy implementation involves all the activities and choices that are required for the execution of a strategy. The implementation process basically deciding who is to carry out the plan what must be done and how are the selected people selected to carry out the strategic plan going to do it (Wheelen, 2006). These strategies are normally executed by various heads of business segments subordinated by other employees within the business segments. This has been done through budget allocations, programs that indicate the time frame in which the various strategies need to be implemented and the use of procedures e. g. the Operating Management System that covers employee capabilities to risk assessment. Some of the programs used by the company are those of closing the performance gap which runs from 2008 to 2011, and the reduction of the number of employees in refining and marketing from mid 2007 to the end of 2009 by 3,500. After deciding on who and what must be done, the company must decide on how the strategy is going to be implemented. How a strategy is to be implemented might involve developing new organizational structure. For BP plc, to implement some of its strategies, the company has decided to eliminate certain senior and junior positions. Evaluation and control This is the process by which a company can monitor its corporate activities and performance results in order to compare the actual performance with the desired performance. Evaluation and control provides a feedback mechanism where corrective measures can be taken where necessary (Wheelen, 2006) Evaluation and control can be summarized into the following 5 steps – Determine what to measure – Establish standards of performance – Measure actual performance – Compare actual performance with the standards – Take corrective action The company has set out plans to reduce costs and improve on efficiency on its operations. The company wants to grow its upstream business (exploration and production) while at the same time turning around its downstream business. Upstream business growth is measured by growth in reserves, increased replacement percentage, and getting more out of reservoirs. Downstream business is to be improved through cost reduction by restructuring the company’s operations e. g. by downsizing and recapitalizations Improved bottom-line, high reserve replacement percentages, efficient operations, growth in reserves are some of the standards of performance that the company uses to gauge performance. Actual performance is measured at specified times e. g. for BP plc, restoring revenues from refining performance, improved supply optimization and margin capture in petrochemical and marketing has a time frame of 2008-2011 The comparison of actual performance against standard performance has to be done in order to establish the current position for example in 2008; the production grew 1. 5% while the replacement reserve was 136% which was more than the minimum 100% replacement. If the actual performance does not match the expected results, then corrective action needs to be taken. An example is the restoration of capacities in Texas City so as to boost refining and consequently revenues. References BPplc. (2009, March 3rd). 2009 Strategy presentation. Retrieved April 15th, 2009, from Bp. com: http://www. bp. com/liveassets/bp_internet/globalbp/STAGING/global_assets/downloads/I/IC_bp_strategy_presentation_march_2009_script. pdf BPplc. (2009, March 3rd). About Bp. Retrieved April 15th, 2009, from Bp. com: http://www. bp. com/marketingsection. do? categoryId=2contentId=7013628 Vault. com. (2009, April 14th). Indusrty Overview. Oil and Gas. Retrieved April 15th, 2009, from Vault. com: http://www. vault. com/nr/main_article_detail. jsp? article_id=22843159cat_id=0ht_type=7. Wheelen, J. D. (2006). Essentials of Strategic Mnagement. New Jersey: Prentice Hall. (BPplc, 2009 Strategy presentation, 2009) How to cite Company overview, Papers

Training and Prosocial Organizational Behaviors-Free-Samples for Stude

Question: Discuss about The relationship between training and prosocial organizational behaviors. Answer: Introduction Some of the fundamental features of the human resource management are training and organizational behavior. Proper training is provided by the experts to the new employees of the organization. The organizational behavior is such an aspect that is measured from the ways the employees of the particular organizations behave (Hendry, 2012). This also reflects the organizational culture as well. In this paper, the main purpose will be to draw a relationship between pro-social organizational behaviors and training of the employees. Training Training is an organized procedure in the organizations. The employees must be given a proper training so that they can enhance their skills and show their worth by delivering the expected performance for the organizations. The employees should be trained in a way by which they can adjust to all the changes in the organizational environment. All the required knowledge, ability and skills can be obtained by the employees if they go through a proper training indeed (Hendry, 2012). Pro-social organizational behaviors Pro-social organizational behaviors are considered to be very important behaviors that are elemental for the success of the organizations. These pro-social organizational behaviors have a huge implication on the overall performance of the organizations (Hazzi Maldaon, 2012). The organizations will be able to survive properly if they perform the pro-social organizational behaviors properly. The pro-social organizational behaviors are generally enacted by the individuals of an organization when he carries out his or her functions for the organization by communicating with his colleagues. There are certain kinds of pro-social organizations that can be highlighted in this context. They are employee-directed pro-social behavior (altruism), compliance, customer0directed pro-social behaviors, whistle-blowing and others. Relationship between pro-social organizations and training It has been a matter of discussion as proper training of the employees could lead to the success of the organization from all the directions (Hazzi Maldaon, 2012). If the employee-directed pro-social organizational behaviors are not properly performed the employees will not learn the ways they should conduct with their colleagues and most importantly with their clients (Armstrong Taylor, 2014). The organization can function smoothly only if the employees are well-organized and behave properly according to the ethics of the organization. The experts should always behave well and co-operate with the workers. These particular behaviors are very necessary for the survival of the organizations (Hazzi Maldaon, 2012). These things are also taught in the training process. This is considered to be one of the most interesting responsibilities for the human resource managers. They should incur the sense of responsibility in the employees through proper training (Armstrong Taylor, 2014). It is believed by some experts that taking up the additional roles or the extra roles is a part of the pro-social organizational behaviors and the employees should be trained by the human resource managers properly (Ford, 2014). All these things should be directed towards meeting the organizational goals and achieve organizational success. Conclusion The paper can be concluded by saying that pro-social organizations are really very inspiring for achieving the organizational success. It is the responsibility of the HR managers to make the employees efficient enough to comply with the needs of the organizations. References Armstrong, M., Taylor, S. (2014).Armstrong's handbook of human resource management practice. Kogan Page Publishers. Ford, J. K. (2014).Improving training effectiveness in work organizations. Psychology Press. Hazzi, O. A., Maldaon, I. S. (2012). Prosocial organizational behaviors: The lifeline of organizations.European Journal of Economics, Finance and Administrative Sciences,54, 106-114. Hendry, C. (2012).Human resource management. Routledge.

Ricker Oils Marketing Plan

Executive Summary Armstrong (2000, p.22) defines a marketing plan as a written document which details the necessary actions necessary to achieve the marketing objectives formulated. A Marketing plan is a blueprint for communicating the value of your products and services to your customers (Anon, 2005, para. 2).Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Ricker Oil’s Marketing Plan specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Ricker Oil limited was founded in 1979 and currently operates 49 convenience stores in Indiana State. The company distributes high quality oil products to various categories of consumers in Indiana. The company according to Simpson (2010, p.15) is committed to community service, customer service and corporate trust as its foundation. This Marketing plan is a one year strategy in response to the recent spillage in the Gulf of Mexico. The spill has affected the business. The future implications that it has to the company is analyzed. The spillage is a threat to the business and hence there is a need to have a clear way forward in handling the situation at hand. In order to attain this, the firm has developed a marketing plan. The strategies herein are in line with the overall business plan and acts as a strategic blueprint. Situation analysis One of the major challenges facing the oil industry in United States is as a result of oil spillage in the Gulf of Mexico by the contracted supplier that is British Petroleum Public Limited Company. The outcome of the spillage according to BP (2010) has affected a large number of entrepreneurs and independent distributors who deal with the brand. Being one of the businesses dealing with BP products as a distributor, the management team has to consider how to survive in business amid customer complaints regarding the situation. Some of the stations such as the Ricker Oil which deal with BP brands cannot distance themselves from the challenge facing t he oil company as stated by Elliot (2007, p.130). This is due to the fact that these stations are in existence as a result of a contract between them and BP Oil. These contracts stretch for a number of years hence it is impossible to terminate them without incurring huge financial obligation and legal consequences. Company analysis The Companys goal is to run the most profitable and professionally managed petrol station in the United States. In its operation, the firm focuses on customer care, employee and shareholders satisfaction. The company’s objective is to own 50% of the oil market share in Indiana by the end of the 2010.Advertising Looking for essay on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Its market share has decreased recently as a result of customers shunning companies carrying BP brands which are attributed to the oil spillage crisis in the Gulf of Mexico. However, the management team is determ ined to ensure that the crisis does not greatly affect the business. Competition within the oil sector in Indiana is not stiff. In addition, there are a few established brands in Indiana. Most of these dealers are independent stations. The company has adequate resources available to fully implement the marketing plan. For example, during the previous financial year, the firm managed to register high profits. A significant proportion of the profit was put in the reserve which is in line with its policy. This means that the firm has sufficient amount of finances to implement the marketing plan. PESTEL Analysis According to Decision Group (2000, para. 2), the US political environment has undergone a change over the recent past. The government has formulated a policy aimed at enhancing the oil industry’s capacity to deal with the oil spillage crisis. For example, the government offered tax rebate to cushion against diminishing sales as the crisis is being dealt with. This cushion s Ricker Oil against economic changes such as inflation and rise in interest rates. This is favorable to the company’s operation. The daily journal carried an article which showed that drill oil in Indiana would be hard. In an effort to promote oil industry, the US government has formulated a policy aimed at increasing exploration of oil and gas (Department of Energy, 2010, para. 5). In order to exploit this opportunity, firms dealing with oil production are required to invest heavily on technology in order to be effective in drilling. Changes in the social environment have had the largest impact on business operation. One of the social changes relate to the low demand for the company’s products as a result of change in consumer behavior and attitude towards BP brands. On the other hand, technology has played a favorable role in the operation of the firm. This arises from the new eco-friendly petrol products launched by BP. Currently; the petrol product is the best qua lity in the market. Incorporation of new technology in oil storage and transportation will greatly reduce losses incurred through evaporation and spillage.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Ricker Oil’s Marketing Plan specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More This will significantly reduce costs incurred by the firm. Legal issues in relation to health and safety are still unchanged though there are indications that the government will enact new regulation to prevent future oil spillage crisis and in handling oil crisis. Market Analysis The oil market has a high potential for growth despite the low sales which are attributed to the oil spillage crisis. Ricker Oil is well established in Indian state. However, the firm’s management team intends to acquire a 50% market share within the next one year. Through acquisition, the firm has been able to increase the number of its petrol stations. The recent acquisitions entailed two stations which were previously under one of our competitor’s brand. BP Company is communicating facts related to oil spillage to the consumers hence retain their trust to the brand. Recent demand for high quality eco-friendly petrol products coincided with introduction by BP of the same to the market. This gives the company differential advantage over its competitors. Establishment of a new college, a branch of the State University in the region with a capacity of 1,000 students will generate new market for our products. Consumer Analysis The current oil spillage crisis has resulted into a change in consumer buying decision. The 5.4% drop in sales is attributed to the crisis. Compared to other players in the market, Ricker Oil has a high potential of growth. The new drive inns experienced depicts the trust customers have on the brand. According to Simpson (2010, p. 6), consumers are loyal to the company because of the good customer care and efficiency in service provision compared to the competitors. If consumers cease purchasing from the company’s stations, they will be hurting the local economy. This is one of the the public relations campaigns that the company has considered in order to deal with the situation. The changing consumer behavior and attitude is attributed to the BP crisis. Consumer dissatisfaction is minimal and the crisis has been blown out of proportion as shown by groups in Facebook and other social websites.The company considers this as a personal issue. It therefore does not cut across the whole consumer base.Advertising Looking for essay on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More SWOT Analysis Gillespie (2007, p. 4) defines a firm’s strengths and weakness as inherent advantages the company has over other players in an industry. The strong brand and good distribution networks maintained by Ricker Oil, financial capability and operating capabilities are our strengths. Employees of the firm will have to play a critical role and use their skills for the company to grow. To overcome our weaknesses the company will be launching a new brand of engine oil from its own production line hence reduce overreliance on BP brands. The oil crisis has provided Ricker Oil with an opportunity to buy of our competitors stations at bargained price hence establishing a higher market share and effective distribution network. Launching of new eco-friendly petrol product coincided with demand for high quality environmental friendly fuel. This gives the company an added opportunity over its competitors in the market (Anon, 2010, para. 3). The only threat experienced relates to competition from stations carrying other brands which have been innovated as a result of the crisis. However, this is temporary and the company expects normal operations in two month’s time. Threats of new entrants to the market have been foreseen and the company is repositioning itself as a leading oil provider. In addition, the firm offers other services such as convenience stores, free oil change and Children Park. Marketing analysis The market for oil products has grown tremendously over the past one year.This trend is expected to grow in the future due to the favorable economic environment brought about by strong dollar relative to other currencies. In addition, implementation of the stimulus package will promote market growth. The company expects a market growth of at least 5% per month which will be consistent throughout the period of the plan. The company is expanding its market target to satellite towns within the state through recruiting small distributors who have established businesses in these areas. Market segmentation It is important for Ricker Oil to expand its market by targeting institutional customers such as corporate organizations and schools in the region.This category of customers are loyal and entering into contractual agreement with them to be their suppliers ensures a sound customer base. The company intends to use market segmentation strategy in order to retain customers and to create product differentiation to meet the customer needs. Market segmentation is important in the company’s effort to position itself in the market as the leader via provision of high quality and reliable oil products. Price discrimination will also be exercised thanks to clear market segments and target as stated by Bangs (1992, p.3). Market share Ricker Oil market share has undergone a significant increase over the past few years it has been in operation. For the next one year, the firm projects its market share to increase with a margin of 50 % as a result of marketing its products in Indiana. The market share is expected to be boosted by the convenience stores. This arises from a change in consumer behavior. For example, consumers are considering purchasing product at convenience store while refueling. This plan sets a one year period as the maximum time allowed to gain half of the share of the oil products market (appendix). Increasing the market share is expected to generate more sales. Convenient stores contribute more than half of its annual profits. Over the last period, there has been a sustainable growth in customer base. Improving outlook, display, branding and services in the stores will eventually increase sales from oil products and increase customer base and market share. Sustaining the existing customers is key to achieving the desired levels of sales and a consistent 5% monthly increase in sales level. According to Lewis (2002, p.1), sustaining a company’s projects is more important and crucial than mere implementation of strategies. Competition There is stiff competition in the industry arising from independent stations which sell oil products for other brands. Competition is based on customer relations and service. The company will focus on efficient and effective customer service, relationship building and reliability in services provision. To gain a competitive advantage, the company will embark on expanding its convenience stores to include children parks in an effort to attract potential customers who have families. The Chartered Institute of Marketers (2008, para. 4) states that relationship marketing is important in achieving company goals and a database of all customers will be created within this period. The company will carry community empowerment and social responsibility twice this year, the main aim is to restore trust and market confidence as stated Verma (2006,p.20 ). Marketing strategy The company will adopt a new marketing strategy which will consider value a ddition. By offering extra services to clients ranging from free oil change, windscreen wiping, expanding convenience stores and free oil products delivery to loyal customers will go along way in building customer relations. There will be a change in positioning of premium unleaded petroleum products to suit needs of the corporate target market. The company will cease from selling repackaged diesel engine oil, rather it will act as a reseller to BP’s oil. These will lead to savings in relation to production costs. Product The Company’s oil products will still carry the BP brand. However, the convenience stores will introduce new customized products relating to the brand. Extensions in petrol oil products are necessary due to rising competition and changing consumer demand. Our products are known to be reliable, convenient and dependable and this is our strong foundation that we should uphold. Branding of company products is integral and with the BP brand under scrutiny from the market in the short run, the company will focus on selling benefits rather than the brand it carries. In the long run the company intends to do branding on the products but under license from BP. Price Pricing decisions for oil products will be based wholly on global prices, forces of demand and supply and competition. In order to retain and maintain the current customer base amidst the oil spillage crisis, quantity discounts will be offered to customers. For corporate clients, base payment options will be available provided. This will enable the company to achieve high levels of customer retention. Price discrimination will be exercised by charging different prices to different consumers groups. The criteria to practice price differentiation will be based on geographical distance and consumer loyalty. Consumers with loyalty cards will get cash discounts on products thus building loyalty and trust. Pricing decisions will be based on total cost plus mark up at same time ens uring the prices are competitive in the market for the sake of market penetration and market expansion. Promotion In the short run, that is the next three months, depending on the outcome of the oil spillage crisis to the business and public relations will be the main promotional which will be used. The BP brand will aid in communicating and advertising to leverage the company against the oil crisis for the next two years. BP will send sales representatives who will work with the company’s sales force in implementing new sales promotion to be launched in 6 months time. Cash discounts will be given to loyalty card holders and bulk buyers at a rate of 5% on total purchase. In addition, advertisement will form a major promotion tools.Bangs (1992, para. 4) stated that advertisement is critical in building brands and reminding consumers of the products existence in the market during their buying process. In most cases, consumers will purchase brands they are aware of. Advertisemen ts serve in enhancing brand awareness. The company will for the first time run game shows to be aired in the local television. This will help in building brand awareness thus countering competition. To increase product availability in the market, distributors will be awarded trade discounts and rebates. A sales promotion targeting distributors will be launched to increase their competitiveness and reward them for carrying Ricker Oil products. Distribution The Company has the largest distribution network in Indiana State. Another station will be opened in the sprawling up market of Indian town. New logistics software is in place to aid in logistics related to electronic distribution hence a high level of efficiency in the network. With regard to warehousing, the refurbishment will be completed in a month time. This will in turn increase holding capacity by more than 25% of the current holding capacity. The company has considered incorporating small independent distributors in an effo rt to ensure that its products are accessible in the entire market. Kotler (1996, p.120) describes a good channel of distribution as one which takes the shortest time and is cost effective to operate. Based on this definition, the company has integrated the Critical Path Method of identifying the shortest and most effective distribution channel to use (Heerdens, 2005,p.76). Implementation Implementation of the firm’s strategies will be faced with a number of challenges in relation to personnel requirements, financial requirements and change management as described by Kennedy (2000,p.34). The implementation of the strategy will be done in three phases. These phases include dealing with the challenges brought resulting from the crisis, adopting changes and taking corrective measures. Alternative strategies will be developed to meet changes in the environment and unforeseen circumstances (Klastorin 2003, p.54). Personnel requirements New staff will be required in some of the fir m’s departments. These include warehousing, sales and marketing, operations, finance and talent acquisition. Recruitment will be done in the next one month. The staff recruited will enable the marketing plan to be well executed by providing enough human capital. As a result, the plan will be achievable within the one year as it is stipulated. Restructuring of the marketing department will be conducted on sale and marketing functions under the head of marketing (see appendix). Financial requirement Huge financial outlay is expected with recruitment of new staff, expansion of convenient stores, establishing a new station, warehouse renovation and increased promotion activity. This will result into a 20% increase in the company’s total expenditure. Returns expected will be 10% of sales revenue. Theis figure is expected to rise to increase so as to cover operational costs over the next phase of the firm’s operation. Change management Other than restructuring the Mar keting department, all managers are expected to embrace the plan in their departmental levels. As departmental heads, managers will be the change management in implementing the strategies and evaluation will be done at the end of the year to check on performance. The company expects all departments, staff and management to work together to successfully implement the plan. Deviations noticeable during the implementation process will be communicated directly to the Marketing department under strategic management. All departments will be treated as strategic management units thus ensuring maximum effort and energy is driven towards achievement of the set goals as per the plan. Financial Summary The main assumption taken is that the dollar rate will remain constant over the year with no major fluctuations. The balance sheet will change to reflect the inclusion of a new Children Park to be built in convenient stores and a restructured warehouse. A significant change in the income stateme nt is expected with more capital outlay and increased expenses brought about by expansion measures. The cash flow statement will also be affected because more cash from the reserve will be used in expansion. Therefore a lower profit margin is expected. However, at the end of the year investments, the firm will expect higher returns. According to Kerzner (2003, p.32), capital expenditure and related expenses are considered as investments rather costs to the company’s account. Scenarios There are two scenarios expected. First, if the BP oil crisis escalates beyond the firm capacity to deal with, the company will experience a significant loss thus running into the risk of insolvency. Incase of this occurring, there will be a reduction in customer loyalty. The customers will completely cease from purchasing BP products. The only option left to the company will be to close down its operations or obtain its supplies from other suppliers. This will amount into breach of its contract with BP. The second case scenario relates to whether the crisis will be resolved soonest possible. If this is attained, the firm will attain a favorable business operating environment backed by consumer confidence and trust for its brands. This forms the foundation of this marketing plan (Verma, 2009, p.21). Conclusion The marketing plan provides a blueprint which the company will utilize in its operation during the next financial year. The ongoing oil spill crisis has resulted into a challenge in the firm’s effort to improve marketing strategies to meet changing customer demands, behavior and characteristics. In order to deal with the crisis, the firm’s departments will be allowed to develop alternative strategies. However, these strategies must be in line with the overall plan. This plan acts as a guide regarding Ricker Oil’s market position during the next year of its operation. The marketing department is responsible for drafting the marketing plan with con sultations from other departments. In addition, it will ensure that the plan is effectively implemented. The top management team of the company will be responsible for providing leadership and resources to implement the plan successfully. The oil market is characterized by fluctuating prices and hence the biggest decisions a firm has to undertake relates to pricing. Market research is very important. Firms which conduct continuous market surveys remain competitive, are adaptable to changing environment and meet changing consumer demands. In depth understanding of consumer behavior enables a firm effectively meet market needs. As a result, the customers are satisfied by consuming the firm’s products thus increasing the probability of the firm attaining its organizational goals as a going concern entity (Cohen, 2006, p. 21). Reference List Anon. 2010. Swot analysis.Web. Available at:  https://www.12manage.com/methods_swot_analysis.html Anon. 2005. Marketing plan. Web. Web. A rmstrong, G. Harker, M. Kotler, P., 2000, Marketing: An Introduction. Prentice Hall. Bangs, D. H., 1992, The marketing planning guide: Creating a plan to successfully market your business, products or service. S.l: University of Minnesota. British Petroleum., 2010. Gulf of Mexico report. [Online] Web. Chartered Institute of Marketers., 2009, Strategy. London: CIM Cohen, W., 2006, The Marketing Plan. 5th ed. Cornel University: J Wiley Sons. Department of Energy. , 2010. BP oil spill.Web. Available at:  https://www.energy.gov/ . Elliot, R. Percy, L., 2007. Strategic Brand Management. Oxford: Oxford University Press. Gillespie, A., 2007, Foundations of Economics :Additional Chapter on Business Strategy. Oxford: Oxford University Press. Heerkens, G., 2001, Project Management :The Briefcase Book Series. McGraw–Hill. Kennedy, D. S., 2000, The ultimate marketing plan: Find your most promotable competitive edge Canada: Adams Media. Kerzner, H., 2003, Project Management: A System s Approach to Planning, Scheduling, and Controlling. 8th ed. s.l:s.n Klastorin, T., 2003, Project Management: Tools and Trade-offs. 3rd ed. Wiley. Kotler, P.,1996, Marketing management: An Asian perspective. PrenticeHall Lewis, J., 2002, Fundamentals of Project Management. 2nd ed. American Management Association. Luther, W. M., 2001, The marketing plan: How to prepare and implement it. New York: American Management Association. Simpson, S., 2010. Rickers oil. Associated press. Web. Web. The Decision Group., 2000. PEST: Political, Economic, Social and Technological  analysis. Sydney: University of Sydney. Verma, R. 2009. Brand Management. New Delhi: Laxmi publications. Appendix: Graphs, Charts and diagrams Organization structure Market share Critical path This essay on Ricker Oil’s Marketing Plan was written and submitted by user Hezekiah Burt to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.

Working Bibliography Essay Example

Working Bibliography Essay Example Working Bibliography Essay Working Bibliography Essay Bering, Jesse. Intoxicating Studies: The Effects of Alcohol on Social Behavior. Scientific American 10 Apr. 2009. 28 July 2009 scientificamerican.com/article.cfm?id=intoxicating-studies. DeWit, David J., et al. Age at First Alcohol Use: A Risk Factor for the Development of Alcohol Disorders. American Journal of Psychiatry 157 ( May 2000 ) : 745-750. Hawkins, David, et al. Exploring the Effects of Age of Alcohol Use Initiation and Psychological Risk Factors on Subsequent Alcohol Misuse. J STud Alcohol 58 1997 May): 280-290. Perlez, J. Teenage drink and the responsibility in social life: Attributing change in the society. Longman publishers,   2003. (2) 22-27. Ramathi, R. Drinking Age of 21: Understanding the rationale behind teenage drinking. Pretoria: Longhorn publishers. 2003, 2: 75-77. Streeter, Ruth. The Debate on Lowering the Drinking Age. CBS News. (22 Feb. 2009). 28 July 2009 cbsnews.com/stories/2009/02/19/60minutes/main4813571.shtml. West Virginia University. Short-term Effects of Alcohol. www.hsc.wvu.edu. West Virginia University. 28 July 2009 hsc.wvu.edu/som/cmed/alcohol/home-fr.htm Worman, Howard J. Alcoholic Liver Disease. www.cumc.columbia.edu. 1998. Columbia University Medical Center. 28 July 2009 cumc.columbia.edu/dept/gi/alcohol.html Annotations Streeter, Ruth. The Debate on Lowering the Drinking Age. CBS News. (22 Feb. 2009). 28 July 2009 cbsnews.com/stories/2009/02/19/60minutes/main4813571.shtml. This source is credible and is available to many. It is discussing an issue that has already caused a lot of debate in the public arena. The paper quotes experts who believe that the drinking age should be lowered to 18 years as the age limit of 21.   This experts include John McCardell, former president of Middlebury College in Vermont, who started a movement entitled –Choose Responsibility, to lowering the age back to 1 8. 2. Ramathi, R. Drinking Age of 21: Understanding the rationale behind teenage drinking. Pretoria: Longhorn publishers. 2003, 2: 75-77. The source is credible as the writer deals with the drinking age of 21. The 18-year-old mind already developed to the level of an adult thus they would tend to keep in mind the pro’s and con’s of alcohol as they tend to know the consequences of defying all the rules and regulations thus if legalized harm is not bound to happen as many deaths usually caused through drunk riving or injuries caused by violence may tend not to occur as they are well aware of the consequences. Thesis Legal Drinking Age Should be lowered to 18

Practitioner Values in Dementia - Portfolio 2 Essay

Practitioner Values in Dementia - Portfolio 2 - Essay Example 872). These symptoms have been very evident on one of my residential home care patients named Ms. X. Ms. X is an 80-year old residential home care patient who is pleasant and receptive. She does not want to ask the help of others frequently but acknowledges the advice of the medical practitioners. Although her doctor told her that she has memory problems, Ms. X reports that it does not affect her daily life, except that her niece has to remind her of most of the things to do like turning the stove after cooking, closing the faucets, and even looking for her eyeglasses. Ms. X does not want to take a bath. Often, she would yell at me if I tell her that it’s time to take a bath. As she is receptive towards the help of others, she always insists on dressing up herself but got confuse and wears her underwear over her regular clothes. She wants to do the cooking and laundry in the nursing home but her frequent forgetfulness often leads to accidents such as making the residential hom e care at risk for fire and switching the powdered milk for laundry detergent. When I would remind her of these things that she cannot do, she would yell at me and humiliate my caring abilities. I felt much stressed about the full-time responsibilities of caring for Ms. X in the residential home care setting and this stress has escalated over the past few months because of the frequent yelling of Ms. X. She is also very impatient towards the nursing care I’ve given to her and there comes a time when I would like to quit from caring her but got guilty feelings towards these thoughts as there is no nearby family who could help her. In a case like this, I began to question myself of how would I personally explore and incorporate issues relating to my best interest, advocacy, and empowerment. Then, maybe, I have not yet fully understand the situation of Ms. X. I could have understood her clinical situations but not her personal shortcomings. It was not easy to have dementia and w orst, to be far away from your family which serves as your major social support in life. In addition, it must be also sad for her that she does not have a partner in life which could help her in her fight for dementia. If I would explore and incorporate issues related to my best interest, I would probably resign and request to not take good care of Ms. X as her frequent yelling is humiliating my status and morals as a nurse. However, I also think that staying and caring for her would also be promoting my best interest as this experience will help me grow professionally and will guide me in handling future patients with dementia. In the latest report of (http://nursingstandard.rcnpublishing.co.uk, 2013), the nurse has the full responsibility in exploring and incorporating issues of advocacy; thus, being a patient advocate may mean that a nurse assists, defends, pleads, or prosecutes for the patient while having collaboration with other professionals. In the case of Ms. X, I should ac t as an advocate in referring to the medical provider her progress report while inside the residential h

Pathophysiology Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 1

Pathophysiology - Essay Example To manage his lifestyle, the patient should minimize the fat intake through consumptions of energy dense foods that lack fiber contents. He should engage in breads prepared from whole wheat flour and exclude the use of any oil. The patient should also consume a lot of vegetables and fruits that should be eaten raw instead of juice. He should completely avoid alcohol, cakes, pastries, sweet meat, cheese, ice-creams, gathia, puris, red meat and jam (Balakrishnan, 2004). The patient is advised to take part in regular exercise, for instance, a brisk walk early in the morning for around 30 minutes. This is helpful because exercise increases blood circulation, lowers blood lipids, increases HDL, minimizes platelet adhesiveness and increases fibrinolysis (Balakrishnan, 2004). It is proved that tobacco smoking increases atherosclerosis throughout the whole cardiovascular system. A lot of chemicals in cigarettes supply to atherosclerosis. Smoking is believed to directly destroy the inner lining of the artery, the endothelium which enhances the initiation of atherosclerosis. Smoking also promotes the blood to clot easily. Clotting incorporated with hardening and narrowing of the arteries result to blockage in the coronary artery that may result to sudden cardiac death (Schneider & Fields 2006). Everyone in the society experiences some form of chronic stress. All kinds of stresses that is emotional, social and psychological maximizes the risk of heart disease and hypertension. This should be avoided because chronic stress enhances other risk factors of heart disease for example smoking, high cholesterol, physical inactivity and obesity (Schneider & Fields, 2006). People tend to be exposed to more risk of cardiovascular diseases as they get old. The blood pressure of old people tends to increase constantly with each passing year. Although old people engaged in daily routines and activities, their blood pressure does not increase with age. For the old

Intervention of Stroop Effect on Color Naming Task

Intervention of Stroop Effect on Color Naming Task Dang Su Rene Abstract The research shows that the intervention of Stroop effect affects the time taken in completing the color naming task. To do this experiment, 248 participants were randomly selected which are half of the participants are Chinese speaking and another half are non-Chinese speaking. The two type of participants will took this experiment. Their result were recorded and shows that non-Chinese speaking took a little longer time to identify the color of round shapes, neutral words, incongruent color words and related words compared to Chinese speaking. However, their results turn out to be very competitive. In contrast, participants who are Chinese speaking they understand Chinese incongruent word and this causes them take time to identify it. (115 words) Introduction â€Å"Stroop effect† is discovered by John Ridley Stroop was first publish in 1935 in an article. This effect is a study of an intervention that the brain’s reaction time of a task. However, the misapply of interference or inhibition has given the physiologist to begin the investigation on experimental literature and has perpetuate to the present by psychologists. Many studies had been published but only several reports captured the psychologist attention. Stroop (1935) was the original Stroop Experiment that studied the speed in naming the ink color and the nature of stimulus which is round shape versus incongruent color words. It illustrates the nature of automatic processing versus visual awareness control. The results showed that the speed in naming the ink color of incongruent color words were slower compared to round shapes. The conclusion was stated were due to interference effect. After a short time, there is two alternative explanation for the Stroop Effect have been suggested which is relative speed of processing argument and automaticity account. The relative speed of argument theory was proposed by John Morton (1969). Both reading and color naming are accomplished in parallel. When it is complete at the same time, word reading is faster and therefore interferes with color naming in the race for verbal output. Schiffrin and Schneider (1977) came up automaticity account theory that suggested the two cognitive attentional processes are automatic processes and controlled processes. They illustrate the differences between the automatic and the controlled. Automatic task requires less attention, difficult to interrupt and it is a task that we are practiced at. In contrast, controlled task requires more attention, interrupt easily and new tasks is given. Therefore, the Stroop Effect happens when an automatic process disrupts a controlled process and this may causes changes after practicing at naming colors. Dalrymple-Alford (1972) considered the variation of the Stroop Effect which includes some conditions. The conditions was to have shapes, color related words and non color-related words. As a result, he concluded that more interference for color related word. Ami (2012) studied that conventional theories of the Stroop effect propose that faster color categorization on congruent trials parallel to incongruent trials is caused by channel interaction. In other words, information from the unrelated word channel disrupts processing of the print color, in turn triggers the deceleration process of incongruent displays. Karthikeyan, Murugappan, Yaacob (2014) studied the results shows that notable changes between the normal and stressed states are more apparent with categorization accuracy. The aim is to display the interference in the response time of a task. Therefore, the current research helps us understand that the participants will take longer time to identify color for incongruent color words (Sheet C) compared to color shapes (Sheet A) and color neutral words (Sheet B). Participants who are Chinese speaking will take longer time to identify color for Chinese-incongruent color words (Sheet E) compared to those non-Chinese speaking. Participants will take longer time to identify color for color related words (Sheet D) compared to color neutral words (Sheet B). (505 words) Method Participants 248 participants were randomly selected from college mates, relatives, friends and acquaintances that were recruited by the researcher. The participants are aged between 16-50 years old. In addition, half of the participants are Chinese speaking and another half are non-Chinese speaking. The participants should not be color blind and must be literate in English. Materials Construct 5 test sheets and a practice sheet of A4 paper. Color pencils or color markers are to be used for the 5 test sheets and practice sheet. A timer is used to record the duration of the experiment. Procedure Before the experiment starts, the researcher has chosen a suitable location where the participants can be seated with minimal distractions. Participants are also given a consent form to sign. Each consent form contains the participant’s signature and the date they did the experiment. Next, the instructions and the experimental conditions were explained to the participants by the researcher. The 5 pages of test sheet with objects or words that are written in different colors were not shown to the participants. The participants were required to name aloud the color of the objects or words as fast as they can. However, if the participants named it wrongly, they are alerted by the researcher and required to repeat the color of the object or word again. After that, the researcher showed the participants the practice sheet that consist one example from the 5 test sheets to make sure that they understand the instructions. Otherwise, the researcher will repeat the explanation to them until they get to understand it. Then, show them the 5 test sheets which are Sheet A, B, C, D and E one at a time. Meanwhile, the time that the participants took to complete the task was tabulated by the researcher. (295 words) Results According to the experiments, most of the participants who are Chinese speaking react faster than the participants who are non-Chinese speaking. The table below is regarding to complete color naming task which is sheet A,B,C,D and E are round shape, color neutral words, incongruent color words, color-related words and Chinese incongruent color words. Table 1 show that the participants who are Chinese speaking take a longer time to finish test sheet E which is Chinese incongruent color words than those who are non-Chinese speaking. In contrast, the participants who are Chinese speaking spent significantly less time on the color naming task than the participants who are non-Chinese speaking. Overall, my hypothesis was that the participants will take longer to identify Sheet C compared to Sheet A and B. Chinese speaking participants will spent longer time to identify Sheet E compared to those non-Chinese speaking. Participants will take longer time to identify Sheet D compared to Sheet B. My results do support my hypotheses. Table 1. Time Taken (In Seconds) to Complete Color Naming Task Figure 1. Time taken (In Seconds) to Complete Color Naming Task (163words) Discussion The result showed a significant effect of the participants in completing color naming task were found in this study that the participants who are Chinese speaking take a longer time to finish test sheet E which is Chinese incongruent color words than those who are non-Chinese speaking. In contrast, the participants who are Chinese speaking spent significantly less time on the color naming task than the participants who are non-Chinese speaking. This result is in line with previous research and it supports my hypotheses of this study. In the past research they do not have Chinese incongruent color words and the participants who are Chinese speaking. According to the past research, the findings of Stroop (1935) studied that the speed in naming ink color are affected by nature of stimulus. Morton (1969) also concluded that word reading is faster and therefore interferes with color naming in the race for verbal output. Dalrymple-Alford concluded that the results are more interference for color related words. References Dalrymple-Alford,E.C. (1972). Sound similarity and color word interference in the stroop  task. Psychonomic Science, 28, 209-210. Ami, E. (2012), Independent race of color and word can predict the stroop effect. Australian  Journal Of Psychology, 64 , 189-198. Karthikeyan, P. , Murugappan, M. Yaacob, S. (2014). Analysis of Stroop Color Word Test-Based Human StressDetection using Electrocardiography ad Heart Rate Variability Signals. Arabian Journal for Science Engineering (Springer Science Buisness Media B.V.), 39, 1835-1847 Morton, J. (1969). Categories of interference: Verbal mediation and conflict in card sorting. British Journal of Psychology, 60, 329-346. Shiffrin, R.M. Schneider, W. (1977). Controled and automatic human processing: II. Perceptual learning, automatic attending and a general theory. Psychology Review, 84, 127-190. Stroop, J. R. (1935). Studies in interference in serial verbal reactions. Journal of Experimental Psychology, 18, 643-662.

Ethics Paper Essay

Ethics is essentially what a person believes is good or bad. By definition ethics is â€Å"rules of behavior based on ideas about what is morally good or bad† (Merriam-Webster, 2013). There are different theories of ethics which include virtue ethics, utilitarianism ethics, and the deontology theory. Virtue ethics is the theory that basically says that a person throughout their life should strive for moral excellence through life experiences. This theory looks at a person over a period of time to determine if they have good morals and considered an ethical person versus basing it off of one incident or â€Å"slip-up†. These â€Å"slip-ups† can be forgiven taking in account past deeds of moral turpitude and ethical acts. The utilitarianism theory is acting morally for the good of a group or society. This theory is very popular in the United States and other Western capitalistic democracies. Utilitarianism works when the people in that particular group or society a gree on what is considered moral and what would be deemed good for them as a whole. The utilitarianism theory can also be seen as social responsibility with the actual definition being the â€Å"obligation of an organization’s management towards the welfare and interests of the society in which it operates† (BusinessDictionary.com, 2013). The deontology theory states that someone’s actions are based on that is inherently right with no other calculations being taken into consideration such as consequences of the action. Deontology is based simply on principle and is justified through the structure of action, nature of reason, and the operation of the will (Boylan, 2009). Ethics and social responsibility play a significant role in the development of a strategic plan especially when considering stakeholders needs and agendas. Company’s primary mission is to make money and turn a profit for their stakeholders. This is done in many different ways and are outlined in the strategic plan. The company however needs to ensure that their operations  are ethical and not harmful to society or the community surrounding. Many companies walk a fine line between ethical and unethical when making efforts to perform for their stakeholders. Stakeholders primary objective is to make as much profit as possible and in most cases in the shortest amount of time possible. This is where companies are sometimes found crossing the line of ethics and social responsibility. This may include cutting corners to have a better competitive edge within the industry thus veering away from the company’s original strategic plan. In years past some companies have been caught conducting unethical operations in the name of profit (Wheelen & Hunger, 2010). The government has enacted legislation to make these activities less appealing to companies. Companies are now tasked with developing strategic agendas to accommodate their stakeholders needs and agendas while still considering ethics and soc ial responsibility. Essentially a company has to make it clear to stakeholders that their best interests are foremost but ethics and social responsibility will take precedence when developing a strategic plan to lead the company to success. The most popular and remembered company for overstepping ethical boundaries for stakeholders agendas would be Enron. Enron who began as a struggling energy provider climbed its way to the top of the food chain in the industry to essentially become a broker of energy. The company appeared to have a great deal of ethics and social responsibility from the outside looking in but things were not as they appeared after the company unraveled. It was found that top executives of the company were falsifying documents about earnings and essentially bleeding the company of all of its assets over the years until its inevitable fall. This included making not so ethical business partnerships and making attempts to hide its debt through clever accounting tricks to avoid recording the information on balance sheets (Sims & Brinkmann, 2003). This all in an attempt to keep stock prices climbing to pad the pockets of the executives and stakeholders alike. Many steps could have been taken within Enron to avoid this situation while still staying successful. The first step would have been to develop a strategic plan that not only provided direction for the company but set milestones for the company to succeed. Other steps to avoid this type of activity is to develop checks and balances within the company and not allowing a select few top executives to control everything without any accountability. The  executives of the company set the tone for the company and when employees see them acting unethically then it is believed this acceptable within the company. Executives should be setting a positive example and encouraging their employees to take the same approach. Conclusion Ethics and social responsibility come hand in hand when dealing with the world of business. When developing a strategic plan a company needs to ensure these areas are addressed and balanced when considering the needs and agendas of its stakeholders. This can as simple as keeping stakeholders informed that it is essential to act ethically for the long term health of the company. Enron is a prime example of the hardships a company as well as its employees and stakeholders can face when a company puts ethics and social responsibility to the side. This also reinforces the fact that companies should develop their strategic plan with these in mind and then sticking to the plan then taking appropriate steps to keep the plan updated to continue on the road to success. References Boylan, M. (2009). Basic ethics: Basic ethics in action (2nd ed.). Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson. BusinessDictionary.com. (2013). Social responsibility. Retrieved from http://www.businessdictionary.com/definition/social-responsibility.html Merriam-Webster. (2013). Ethic. Retrieved from http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ethic Sims, R. R., & Brinkmann, J. (2003, July). Enron ethics: Culture matters more than codes. Journal of Business Ethics, 45(3), 243. Retrieved from http://www-rohan.sdsu.edu/faculty/dunnweb/rprnts.enronethics.html Wheelen, T. L., & Hunger, J. D. (2010). Concepts in strategic management and business policy (12th ed.). Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson Education.