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.

Emily Dickinson – I Die for Beauty, but Was Scarce

I Died for Beauty, but was Scarce Emily Dickinson I died for Beauty — but was scarce Adjusted in the Tomb When One who died for Truth, was lain In an adjoining room — He questioned softly â€Å"Why I failed†? â€Å"For Beauty†, I replied — â€Å"And I — for Truth — Themself are One — We Brethren, are†, He said — And so, as Kinsmen, met a Night — We talked between the Rooms — Until the Moss had reached our lips — And covered up — our names — Emily Dickerson's poetry often has similar discussion points (Paton). In a few of her poems, such as â€Å"I Died For Beauty,† she discusses death. However, while death would normally be considered a negative subject, she tends to take it from a different perspective (Chad). In her poem â€Å"I Died for Beauty† Emily Dickerson discusses how beauty and truth are one. The message that she gives the readers is that by being true to who you are, and dying with your values intact, you have lived a full life (Paton). When Emily Dickenson writes; â€Å"Adjusted in the Tomb When One who died for Truth, was lain In an adjoining room –â€Å" This gives sight to the reader understanding the speaker hardly had time to adjust to her tomb before a man was laid in another tomb right next to hers’. However the word â€Å"Tomb†, gives the poem an effect that makes it feel more cold, dark and even alone (Ulynie). This word is also given more emphasis on because the first letter is capitalized, even though it happens to be the last word in the line. When Dickinson writes; â€Å"He questioned softly â€Å"Why I failed†? † we can tell that the man asked the speaker why she died, she replied â€Å"†For Beauty†¦ † the reader then finds out that the man claims to have died for trust and he states that trust and beauty are the same thing, and in turn stating the they are both â€Å"Brethren†. Dickinson’s usage of term â€Å"Brethren† makes the reader suggest that their relationship is much stronger (Apran) than just an acquaintance and that they are both apart of or a m ember of this one this, which is death. However their companionship strengthens and we can now see this with the uses of the simile â€Å"And so, as Kinsmen met a Night, We talked between the Rooms,† which shows how the walls between their tombs is no obstacle for their communication. Also in the excerpt â€Å"Until the Moss had reached our lips — And covered up — our names –â€Å", which acts as an metaphor, suggests that the connection between the two are so strong that the loss of their speech and identity (symbolized by the moss covering up their names) through death, holds no barrier between them (Simran), as they are now deemed as one through their similar situations. This poem follows many of Dickinson’s typical formal patterns—the ABCB rhyme scheme, the rhythmic use of the dash to interrupt the flow helps to promote this rhythm and give way some rhymes (Chad). For example notice how some lines such as â€Å"’For Beauty’, I replied – ‘And I – for truth–†¦ † has a certain rhythm to it which is emphasized with the use of dashes. Whereas words such as â€Å"Tomb† and â€Å"Room†, â€Å"Brethren† and â€Å"Kinsmen† rhyme together and are also capitalized giving more focus to it in order to show its significance and importance. All of this adds in giving the poem its effect that even though it may seem a bit dark and gloomy there is also so a sense of acceptance and belonging.