Environmental Analysis of IKEA Essay - 1493 Words

Environmental analysis is integral to understanding how the organization operates within the organization itself, with in the industry and within the macroeconomic environment. For this analysis the subject organization will be IKEA. â€Å"IKEA Group is one of the world’s largest privately owned companies, engaged in the retail of flat-packed home furniture and other house wares. Operating over 150 large-scale stores in over 30 countries, and with a mail order division, IKEA sells a range of furniture, which is made by over 2,000 suppliers in more than 55 countries. The company is headquartered in Helsingborg, Sweden†. (DataMonitor, 2007). IKEA major retail competition in the US are: Furniture Brands International Inc , Office Depot Inc ,†¦show more content†¦Employment and unemployment are crucial when understanding the labor force within the macro economy and the retail industry environment. Inflation is significant to the economic system and occurs when the balance within the system has been swayed or when there is an â€Å"increase beyond proper limits; esp. of prices, the issue of paper money or an undue increase in the quantity of money in relation to the goods available for purchase; or an inordinate rise in prices† (ibid). Budget balance and finance are important keys as well. Much like the macro economy, this requires balance, so to the retail business needs balance in order to function. Two of the macroeconomic variables which greatly affect the retail industry are unemployment and inflation. The unemployment rate is â€Å"the percentage of the labor force unemployed: Unemployment rate =unemployed/labor force X 100 (McConnell Brue, 2004). The unemployment rate is important to the economy because it is one of the main indicators as to the strength or weakness of the economy. Generally, the stronger the economy there is lower unemployment, meaning there are more jobs available. According to McConnell and Brue, there are three types of unemployment. These are frictional unemployment which is a description of workers waiting in betweenShow MoreRelatedMarketing in the Operational Context: the Case of Ikea1261 Words   |  6 PagesOF IKEA I. Introduction In the recent years, the operations of many businesses have become global in nature. The internationalization of businesses phenomenon paved the way for various organizations to conveniently expand in other nations. By penetrating the international marketplace, organizations are able to acquire greater market in which to sell their products or provide business. One of the largest companies that has become global today is IKEA. As Swedish-based company, IKEA is aRead MoreSituational Analysis1169 Words   |  5 PagesSituational Analysis University of Phoenix STR/GM581 International Strategic Planning Implementation Steven Hall Situational Analysis IKEA is a global home-furnishing retailer founded in 1943. â€Å"In 2008, IKEA had 253 stores in 24 countries plus 32 stores owned by franchisees and 20 stores expecting to open in 2009† (The Times 100, 2009, p. 1). This paper will show the organization’s mission, vision, and values. In addition, this paper will show a consideration of broad environmentalRead MoreMarketing Audit Approach - Ikea1571 Words   |  7 PagesMarketing Audit Approach - IKEA Marketing Audit Overview â€Å"What is a marketing audit? Quite simply, it is a detailed analysis of the elements that constitute or influence a company’s efforts to profitably market its products- today and in future when both market and products may undergo radical change† ( John, Alexander, Theodore, 1969). 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Challenges, problems and conflicts that may occur in teams Assignment Free Essays

string(50) " has the potential to slow the progress research\." Introduction Organizational theory is continually debating the challenges of teamwork and the issues that face the practice. Are teams more effective decision makers and problem solversThis study will assess this question utilizing a combination of reflective experience coupled with relevant theory. Beginning with a base overview of the challenges faced in the formation of a working team, this essay will lay out an infrastructure. We will write a custom essay sample on Challenges, problems and conflicts that may occur in teams Assignment or any similar topic only for you Order Now Following this section with an evaluation of the issues faced once the team has been created will illustrate the dynamic nature of the teamwork process. A combination of the initial sections will enable a demonstration of the primary challenges facing teamwork in the workplace, which in turn will provide the foundation for a resolution to these experiences. In the end, this study will have examined the formation, execution and potential challenges faced when utilizing the organisational tool of teamwork with the stated goal of identifying the primary challenges in order to enable better future decision making. Challenges Forming a Team Shared purpose and responsibility are a primary challenge in team formation: a team is defined as having a shared goal, which they work towards as a unit sharing the responsibility and direction of the research (Hackman 2011). Most research has illustrated that services provided by a group of professionals working towards a common goal are more effective than the past methods of development such as individual assignments (Atkinson 2013). This research supports the argument that the team is a better decision maker. However, Doina, Mirela and Constantin (2012) assert that emerging reliance on organized research is a weakness that has the potential to slow the progress research. You read "Challenges, problems and conflicts that may occur in teams Assignment" in category "Essay examples" Others have widely utilized the challenges to the teamwork concept over the course of the past generation to produce quick and successful project results (Eddy, Tannenbaum and Mathieu 2013). Personal experience has shown that by working with a team and by being a vital part of the effort to find miniscule details in several literary research projects, the team potential for effective decision making is markedly increased (Ibid). During the challenge to identify specific passages that related to research in the texts, team efforts aided during the process of wading through a wide range of literature. The experience and camaraderie increased positive feelings, which in turn served to further enhance the research results (Ibid). Hackman (2011) identifies the clear challenge that the concept of shared responsibility created between the collaboration group and the team enables a better decision making model. The very first challenge to the concept of teamwork is for management to weigh the effort of team formation versus the streamlined and much less complex individual application (Ibid). However, with only one person on the task, the likelihood of delay or detriment increases (Eddy, Tannenbaum and Mathieu 2013). This is a very effective argument for teams: redundancy. Teamwork has been found to increase the potential for success substantially (Murase, Doty, Wax, Dechurch, and Contractor 2012). As technology evolves and more resources became available, teams have evolved past the simple construct into a much more complex creation that are commonly able to meet challenges that exist at the start up stage. However, a question that must be asked is if the effort of forming a team offset by the potential knowledge gained from the experience (Ibid)If the decision can be better accomplished alone, the effort of creating a team is not worth the result. Organisational theory is utilized in the effort to streamline business and predict human behaviour that occurs in the organisational setting (Dyer,Dyer, and Dyer 2007). Teamwork has become a growing challenge in this field as the strength of the potential for gain has been recognized in the business world (Ibid). The Contingency Theory argues that there is no best method to the creation of a team, but each situation is unique and must be fit to the individual application (Decostanza, Dirosa, Rogers, Slaughter, Estrada, and O. 2012). This is a primary challenge that must be addressed in every team operation process. Others cite the process of teamwork decision process as cumbersome and a burden to individual potential (Zingone, Franks, Guirguis, George, Howard-Thompson, and Heidel, R. 2010). The challenge to the teamwork decision making concept is that it has the potential to be as positive or detrimental as the members allow. Personal experience has illustrated how team decisions and course correction was essential due to the fact that the work simply could not be done by one or two people and benefited from the teams input (Ibid). Further, there were many points of view that required a varied field of knowledge, making team decisions essential. Finally, the deadline was very short increasing the pressure, which the team was able to minimize (Decostanza et al 2012). It took a team decision that served to guide the project past the difficult points in order to achieving the target goal (Ibid). A primary challenge from the outset of any team effort is morale and energy (Ibid). Another challenge to an effective team decision making is the creation of a cross functional working environment that will be conducive to supporting the entirety of the effort (Tohidi 2011). The process of team process requires that the members know how to function and provide incentive (Ibid). Personal experience has demonstrated that especially as a project begins to develop, the pressure creates issues that cause members of the team to leave, or splinter from the original. This form of teamwork friction can turn a small issue into a major problem (Beatty et al 2012). Challenges in this area include disputes over leadership positions which in turn hobbles the entire decision making process and serves to skew the research (Ibid). Beatty et al (2012) Identifies four particular challenges that must be addressed in order to enable a team decision making process to be successful: a) Appropriate formation b) Members are accountable for both individual and team work c) Assignment promotes team development d) Timely communication In each case, careful consideration before implementation has the potential to increase effectiveness consequently reducing issues (Ibid). The creation and implementation of an effective team is essential in the decision making process and is faced with many challenges as the group comes together to find a solution (Dyer et al 2007). A primary hurdle facing a team is the initial assessment of which person will be best suited to which specific task within the scope of the project (Ibid). As Dyer et al (2007) Illustrates, the role determination at the outset can have a tremendous impact on the subsequent performance of the entire team. Personal experience has demonstrated the fact that the right leader can make or break a team project from the very beginning (Ibid). Further, primary challenge that the leader will mitigate is the identification of the proper employees to become part of the team decision making experience (Ibid). Weak leadership in a team setting often leads to many voices, which in turn have a variety of directions and takes away from the capacity to make effective decisions (Ibid). Leaders in a team p rovide resources, rewards and management that are effective focusing and maintaining the project goals (Schultz, Wilson, and Hess 2010). Lacking any one of these elements will quickly become a challenge to the entire organization. Teams have a real potential to start off well, and then flounder when the perceived leader does not provide the pieces necessary to progress as a group (Ibid). If there is a method but no practical application for that method, the entire group is left at a standstill. Team leadership is responsible for guiding the members to produce the best effort for the benefit of the entire project (Ibid). The style of leadership in a teamwork setting is important, as it must fit with the temperament of the project. A successful team decision is due to the capacity of the leader and team to work together in a positive, upbeat environment (Sarrafzadeh and Williamson 2012). Leaders that have instilled a sense of doom and gloom have seldom evoked the same level of skill from the teams (Ibid). Management leadership that is worth their pay assists t development of the teamwork effort while integrating the individual goals with that of the group. Atkinson (2013) defines the role of organisational culture as reflecting the overriding assumption regarding the method of work and the limits of what is and is not acceptable. Principals are often at the heart of dissension in the teamwork environment if there is a lack of structure and coherence during the formation period (Ibid). Personal experience has illustrated that different team approaches can cause substantial strife. With no clear structure the negative discussion took up vital research time (Ibid). The dynamic of teamwork issues will vary according to the size of the team, the bigger the effort the more complex the application (Goldman, B. and Shapiro 2012). Research has shown that when working in larger groups, the difficulties are multiplied and the need for coordination is only enhanced as the group grows in scope (Ibid). Conversely, personal experience with a small team of three or four individuals has the capacity to be as effective as much larger, less communicat ive teams (Atkinson 2013). Once the team has begun to work issues such as Groupthink must be avoided in order to progress (Sikorski, Johnson, and Ruscher 2012). As the establishment of routine sets in during the team environment, there is the threat of following the leader (Ibid). There is the potential for team members to follow the group, even if they had an opposite opinion (Ibid). This has clear potential to set the entire effort back as it is necessary to go back and deal with the issue. Further, this mentality lacks creativity and innovative depth that can doom a team’s effort from the very beginning (Ibid). Tannenbaum, Mathieu, Salas, and Cohen (2012) identify three modern challenges to the operation of an effective team: a) Dynamic composition of the members b) The distance and technology that are involved. c) Empowerment and delayering Personal experience has illustrated that there are significant challenges in each of these areas, particularly cross cultural challenges as research partners are often on completely different sides of the planet (Sweet and Michaelsen 2012). Recent projects commonly have had to include translation programs and uncommon times to meet. In each case the culture and area of my partner serves to influence the project (Ibid). Emerging technology has made it possible to extend the resources which can be a significant enhancement to the team potential (Ibid). Others argue the extreme increase in the cultural diversity of team makeup creates more issues than benefits and adversely impacts the underlying integrity of the study in question (Sweet and Michaelsen 2012). When an international team first comes together, the very basic elements of language and cultural understanding are very critical points that must be considered as the team is given assignments. A lack of adequate understanding o f the social dynamics has the potential to not only hobble and slow a team’s efforts, but in very many cases completely derail the process (Ibid). An emerging challenge to any team decision making model is the continuous upgrade and application of technology (Buchanan, and Huczynski 2010). With computers, tablets and mobile computers becoming a vital tool, the mix of the forms of technology can lead to a significant issue. Personal experience with this dilemma came when during the attempted transfer from an Ipad to a research partners PC. This quickly became an issue as it was necessary to obtain the correct application to make the one program work with the other. Further, this same concept translates into the manner in which the entire team communication effort is managed (Child, 2005). The method and manner of organization throughout the team process has the potential to create a myriad of issues. The issue of finding emails and means of transferring data from my platforms to the groups is a continuous challenge which creates a situation in which the group cannot fully share scheduling information and updates due to the dif ferent nature of the programs used (Ibid). Leadership must account for and adapt to the many layered technological nature of the modern work place (Ibid). Conclusion The concept of team decision making in organisational theory is credited with being the next evolution in business. With the evidence presented in the study illustrating many of the potential benefits, there were areas of concern that could serve to diminish many of the expected returns of implementing a team based network. The primary expectation for a team project is the increase in resources and depth, which in turn adds to the capacity to make more informed decisions. Issues surrounding the team itself ranging from organisation, leadership, technology and personal cohesiveness all serve to come together to impact the overall effectiveness of the concept. There is clear evidence to support the assertion that a team can produce better decisions, yet, this is dependent on the unique factors that surround the formation, implementation and result of the team experience. If any one area of the teamwork process is lacking, so too is the final result. Beginning with the determination of needing to form a team, choosing leadership and structure, to communication and goal sharing the team decision making process is a highly complex, delicate instrument that has the potential to make better decisions than past models. In every case, the team has the potential to exceed expectations or fail miserably, which in turn will be determined by the members themselves. In the end, a team is individuals that share a common vision and the will to make it happen. References Atkinson, P. 2013. Corporate Culture. Philip Atkinson Consulting, 1 (2), pp. 1-10. [Accessed: 3 Dec 2013]. Beatty, S., Kelley, K., Metzger, A., Bellebaum, K. and Mcauley, J. 2009. Team-based learning in therapeutics workshop sessions. American journal of pharmaceutical education, 73 (6). Child, J. 2005. Organization. Malden, MA: Blackwell Pub.. Decostanza, A., Dirosa, G., Rogers, S., Slaughter, A., Estrada, A. and X, O. 2012. Researching teams: Nothing’s going to change our world. Industrial and Organizational Psychology, 5 (1), pp. 36–39. Doina, R., Mirela, S. and Constantin, R.. The Organizational Culture and the Factors of its Formation .ANALELE UNIVERSITuAcTII DIN ORADEA, p. 561. Eddy, E., TANNENBAUM, S. and MATHIEU, J. 2013. Helping Teams to Help Themselves. Personnel Psychology. Goldman, B. and Shapiro, D. 2012. The psychology of negotiations in the 21st century workplace. New York: Routledge. Hackman, J. 2011. Collaborative intelligence. San Francisco, CA: Berrett-Koehler Publishers. Hirst, G. 2009. Effects of membership change on open discussion and team performance: The moderating role of team tenure. European Journal of Work and Organizational Psychology, 18 (2), pp. 231–249. Huczynski, A. and Buchanan, D. 2013. Organizational behaviour. Harlow: Pearson Education Limited. Johns, G. and Saks, A. 2011. MGMT20001 Organisational behaviour. Sydney: Pearson Choices. Murase, T., Doty, D., Wax, A., Dechurch, L. and Contractor, N. 2012. Teams are changing: Time to â€Å"think networks†. Industrial and Organizational Psychology, 5 (1), pp. 41–44. Sarrafzadeh, M. and Williamson, K. 2012. Multicultural, Virtual Work Places: Opportunities and Challenges for LIS Educato. International Journal of Information Science and Management (IJISM), 10 (1), pp. 89–102. Schultz, J., Wilson, J. and Hess, K. 2010. Team-based classroom pedagogy reframed: The student perspective. American Journal of Business Education (AJBE), 3 (7). Sikorski, E., Johnson, T. and Ruscher, P. 2012. Team Knowledge Sharing Intervention Effects on Team Shared Mental Models and Student Performance in an Undergraduate Science Course.Journal of Science Education and Technology, 21 (6), pp. 641–651. Sweet, M. and Michaelsen, L. 2012. Team-based learning in the social sciences and humanities. Sterling, Va.: Stylus Pub.. Tannenbaum, S., Mathieu, J., Salas, E. and Cohen, D. 2012. Teams are changing: are research and practice evolving fast enough?. Industrial and Organizational Psychology, 5 (1), pp. 2–24. Tohidi, H. 2011. Teamwork productivity effectiveness in an organization base on rewards, leadership, training, goals, wage, size, motivation, and measurement and information technology. Islamic Azad University of South Tehran, 3(1) pp. 1137-1146 West, M. and Lyubovnikova, J. 2012. Real teams or pseudo teamsThe changing landscape needs a better map. Industrial and Organizational Psychology, 5 (1), pp. 25–28. Zingone, M., Franks, A., Guirguis, A., George, C., Howard-Thompson, A. and Heidel, R. 2010. Comparing team-based and mixed active-learning methods in an ambulatory care elective course. American journal of pharmaceutical education, 74 (9). How to cite Challenges, problems and conflicts that may occur in teams Assignment, Essay examples

Security Attacks in Wireless Communication

Question: Describe about the Security Attacks in Wireless Communication? Answer: The Security attacks targeting the WLANs Wireless Local Area Network brings a new way of complete mobility where the source of communication is not bounded within the infrastructure of wires[1]. Various security attacks are present in the wireless infrastructure. Some attacks are present which are not particularly dangerous. The state-of-the-art security attacks that target the WLANs are: Channel congestion: The security attackers are responsible for jamming the wireless channel present in the physical layer. They effectively reject the network access to valid users. Unauthorized right to use: The time when authentication is not available, the attackers get the opportunity to use free network. They even use the Access Point for accessing the internal network and bypassing the firewall[2]. Analysis of Traffic: The security attackers have the capacity to examine the recorded wireless traffic for obtaining information related to network usage patterns. Session hijack: A security attackers require only two steps to hijack an existing session. At first, the hijacker breaks the course with the help of wireless conflict. Then the hijacker covers the official station and recaps the earlier validation messages. Countermeasures for overcoming the security attacks The proposed countermeasures that can protect WLANs from any security attacks are as follows: At first, the WLAN connection provider needs to create a WLAN security policy to secure their networks. They need to modify the default Service Set Identifier[3]. The WLAN network provider needs to implement strong encryption rules for protecting the system. The implementation of integrated wireless intrusion protection can protect the WLAN network connections without interrupting the services[4]. References Vani, B., 2014. Design of medium access control layer security algorithms to detect and prevent denial of service attacks in WLAN. Waliullah, M., Moniruzzaman, A.B.M. and Rahman, M.S., 2015. An Experimental Study Analysis of Security Attacks at IEEE 802.11 Wireless Local Area Network.International Journal of Future Generation Communication and Networking,8(1), pp.9-18. [1] Vani, B., 2014. Design of medium access control layer security algorithms to detect and prevent denial of service attacks in WLAN. [2] Waliullah, M., Moniruzzaman, A.B.M. and Rahman, M.S., 2015. An Experimental Study Analysis of Security Attacks at IEEE 802.11 Wireless Local Area Network.International Journal of Future Generation Communication and Networking,8(1), pp.9-18. [3] Waliullah, M., Moniruzzaman, A.B.M. and Rahman, M.S., 2015. An Experimental Study Analysis of Security Attacks at IEEE 802.11 Wireless Local Area Network.International Journal of Future Generation Communication and Networking,8(1), pp.9-18. [4] Vani, B., 2014. Design of medium access control layer security algorithms to detect and prevent denial of service attacks in WLAN.

New Business of Sony

Executive Summary Sony is going to start a new business in Saudi Arabia as a part of its brand expansion. However, the purpose of this paper is to discuss the background of the company, internal strengths and weaknesses, external opportunities and threats of the new projects of Sony and Michael Porter’s Five Generic Strategies and environmental situation analysis.Advertising We will write a custom research paper sample on New Business of Sony specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Introduction Sony Corporation was formed in 1946 with center of operations in Japan and this company is the world’s largest media conglomerate, one of the biggest manufacturers of the electronics items and worldwide top 20 semiconductors leader of sales, which generates revenue by more than  ¥7,214.0 billion. Moreover, Sony uses complicated organizational structure in order to control the functions of its outlets and according to the structure, Howard Stringer is the chairperson, CEO, and head of company amongst delegate business decision-making officials of Sony, whilst Ryoji-Chubachi is the vice-chairman, Kazuo-Hirai is the administrative deputy-president, etc. Company Background Before starting a new telecommunication business in Saudi Arabia, it is important for Sony to focus on its current position and background to help the concerned strategy makers to designate the way in which it would be best for the company to accomplish its new business project. In order to do so, it is necessary to consider its financial position, product lines, competitive forces, as well as the performance of Sony in stock market. It is arguable that the firm has categorized into seven major production departments, as the main manufactured items of the firm comprises auditory, video, TV, ICT devices, electrical apparatuses, and semi conductors; the following table shows the five years financial overview generated by each of the production de partments of the firm for a better understanding of its financial background – Factors Determining the Financial Position Yr – 03/ 2008 Yr – 03/ 2009 Yr – 03/ 2010 Yr – 03/ 2011 Revenues –  ¥ 8,201,839 m  ¥ 7,110,053 m  ¥ 6,293,005 m  ¥ 6,304,401 m Total Revenues –  ¥ 8,871,414 m  ¥ 7,729,993 m  ¥ 7,213,998 m  ¥ 7,181,273 m Cost of Goods-Sold  ¥ 6,278,075 m  ¥ 5,660,504 m  ¥ 4,872,042 m  ¥ 4,826,612 m Gross-Profit  ¥ 2,063,033 m  ¥ 1,521,664 m  ¥ 1,670,406 m  ¥ 1,678,873 m Total General-sales and Admin-Expenses  ¥ 1,707,650 m  ¥ 1,629,705 m  ¥ 1,470,901 m  ¥ 1,464,063 m Other Operating-Expenses  ¥ 1,707,650 m  ¥ 1,629,705 m  ¥ 1,470,901 m  ¥ 1,464,063 m Operating-Income  ¥ 355,383 m  ¥ – 108,041 m  ¥ 199,505 m  ¥ 214,810 m Net Interest-Expense  ¥ 411,341 m  ¥ – 2,059 m  ¥ – 9,314 m  ¥ – 12,126 m Earnings of continued-Operat ions  ¥ 363,656 m  ¥ – 102,214 m  ¥ 12,954 m  ¥ – 220,326 m Net-Income  ¥ 369,435 m  ¥ – 98,938 m  ¥ – 40,802 m  ¥ – 259,585 m Table 1: Financial Overview of Sony Corporation Source: Self generated from Bloomberg Businessweek (2011)Advertising Looking for research paper on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More As shown in the figure below, the business has suffered awfully during the global financial crisis due to the reason that the demand fell tremendously. Although the business possesses a strong financial background as discussed above, this crisis put a great adverse impact over the company. However, although the business started recovering from the very beginning of 2010, the recent creeping inflation, and the slight presence of recession that started from September 2011, has again caused a sudden drop on the share prices of the business, which is goin g below gradually – Figure 1: Basic chart of Sony Corporation Source: Bloomberg Businessweek (2011) According to Bloomberg Businessweek (2011), Sony Corporation disclosed its estimated first quarter report in September 2011 and the graph below shows that the quarterly turnovers are not as impressive as it was supposed to be owing to the size and business structure of Sony as the expected quarterly revenues are $1.5 trillion, which prepared by the eight analysts. However, these turnovers are quite lower than the last financial year by about 5.4 percent, which means that the new stroke of the recession has already started to hit the firm’s revenues once again like 2008 –Advertising We will write a custom research paper sample on New Business of Sony specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Figure 2: First quarter revenues 2012 of Sony Corporation Source: Reuters (2011) The Mission and Vision of Sony Corporation Dogru er, Ferzly, and Nguyen (2001) argues that the company’s mission is to build up a broad-range of innovative-products and multimedia services that can assure consumers’ access to let them enjoy digital entertainment by making sure synergy between segments within the group; so, Sony’s aim is to create new worlds of entertainment continuously that can be present on variously assorted arenas. According to Sony Corporation (2011), the company’s vision is to generate thrillingly new-fangled digital pursuit experiences for customers by bringing collectively forward-looking products with generation of latest contents and services; the main focus is to strengthen Sony’s much repeated electronics business and preserve market leadership in high profile areas such as TVs, digital imaging, home video equipment, and transportable audio. Sony’s visions connect the entire firm; it aims to experience the ecstasy of progressing by applying technology for assis tance of community, endorse education of science amongst people, reconstruct Japan, and to raise the country’s traditions through vibrant scientific and manufacturing actions, direct all workers in every segment along trails that escort to pioneering and exciting ways to enhance the world. Moreover, as Sony’s new vision is to start a new business in Saudi Arabia concerning telecommunication services, it would start to focus on developing the networking of the country by expending more on the research and development department in order to bring up new technologies that Saudi Arabians have never ever experienced before.Advertising Looking for research paper on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More SWOT Analysis of Sony’s New Business Strengths Brand Awareness: Sony’s brand image has great influence on the global customers, which always help this company to diversify product line and expand its business in new marketplace. Employees: This Company has more than 168,200 employees who are working with team spirit to face any challenge in the competitive market and to increase loyal customer base in global market. However, the experience of the workforce would assist the management of Sony to introduce telecommunication services in Saudi Arabia. Financial position: according to 2010 income statements, it generated consolidated-sales and operating income of  ¥7,181,300m, which indicates this Company has enough financial capabilities to establish telecommunication network in Saudi Arabia; however, the subsequent table shows the financial capabilities of SONY – Variables 2008 (Yen) 2009 (Yen) 2010 (Yen) Sales and operating revenue 8.90 trillions 7.70 trill ions 7.20 trillions Operating income (loss) 475.30 billions (227.80) billions 31.80 billions RD investment 520.60 billions 497.30 billions 432.0 billions ROE 10.8% -3.1% -1.4% Table 1: Financial information of Sony Source: Self generated from Sony Corporation (2010) Technology: This is one of the most important factors for Sony, as the company needs to upgrade product line and services considering market demand as well as competitors’ product range. However, the marketers of new business plan would like to capture the Saudi market by offering different value added telecommunication services and strong strategic network of vendors by developing technology; so, they would invest large amount for technological advancement to ensure the best telecommunication services. Quality: Sony provides highest efforts on quality products and it has considered an icon for high quality products, so, the customers of global market are highly satisfied with this brand, for example, Son y television and other electronics successfully captured about 22% shares of the European market in 2009 and retail sales revenue from such electronics products were approximately  £10.0 bn. Rapid Expansion: According to the annual report 2010 of this company, Sony experienced huge success in case of global expansion because of quality, price of the products, marketing strategies, human resource plan, strong leadership, and so on. Thus, business expansion and new product developments are the key strategies of Sony that inspire the company to offer telecommunication services in the Saudi Arabia as this country provides some facilities to the foreign companies to enter this market. Corporate Governance: the Board members of Sony maintain corporate governance system with high degree of compliance with general norms of corporate practice and pay care to the local legislation, follow Companies Act 2006 and the guidance of the recommendations of the reports and so on. Corporate Social R esponsibility: In addition, the CSR practices of the company would help the company operate its telecommunication services in KSA as it has a significant level of budgetary involvement for development of CSR[1] policy and practice. Customer Base: However, the strong base of loyal customers has turned as competitive advantage of the company and the existing customer base is gradually increasing, which would be core competence in Saudi market in order to develop its telecommunication services. Weakness Operating costs: Under the pressure of adverse economic position, the risk of high operating costs can be one of the major weak points for Sony’s new business while business expansion in the foreign country is a costly process. Others: the external environment of the business, pricing, and availability of products and services for all sorts of customers, relatively small budget for promotional activities, and expatriates management are the weak points to operate Saudi Market. Fi gure 3: SWOT Analysis of Sony Source: Self generated from Opportunities Long Experience: Sony has long experience to continue its journey with remarkable footprint in the market, as this company was established in 1946 and become market leader of electronic market in EU zone. Market leadership: At the same time, Sony is also popular to the customers of Asian Countries and it has enough financial capabilities to expand its market with new products and it has the opportunity to be the market leader within the target period; thus, it would be able to capture a significant part of market share of Saudi Telecommunication industry. Cross-cultural centre: As a large multinational company, this company has opportunity to increase its brand awareness in Saudi market by adopting effective strategies, using capital more efficiently, and providing special facilities to the expatriates. Demand: Telecommunication is a prospective sector of Saudi Arabia as numbers of subscribers of both local and foreign telecommunication companies are rapidly increasing here, for instance, Etihad Etisalat Company (Mobily) attracted more than 17.0 million subscribers within six months of its operation. Easy to enter: Saudi Arabia is now member of World Tread Organization, which gives the opportunity to the multinationals to enter this market easily by applying any entry mode strategies, such as, joint venture or partnership; therefore, Sony has scope to joint venture with any renowned telecommunication company like Saudi Telecom Company (STC). Diversification: According to the annual report 2010 of Sony Corporation, it is highly diversified company and it diversified its products both vertically and horizontally; consequently, new business project of Sony has scope to increase integrate profits within very short period. Threats Competitors: The existence of strong competitors in this market are one of the main threats for Sony Corporation while the competitors offer networking, internet and telecommunication services at lower price and use effective strategies considering their local culture. However, Saudi Telecom Company (STC), Arabian Internet Communication Services, and Etihad Etisalat Company (Mobily) are the market leaders, those offer landlines, mobile phone, and internet service and so on. Global Financial Crisis: It has huge financial risks to invest large fund in economic downturn and unstable market; therefore, the Board of Directors of Sony may not pass the investment plan, which would design to introduce telecommunication service in Saudi Arabia. Merger: Merger with foreign companies may also subject of financial risks and it can destroy the image and originality of the product line of the parent company; therefore, it can fail to capture expected market share due to high competition and cultural gap. Legal issues: Multinational companies are not interested to operate their business in Saudi Market due to frequent change of regulation and strict Islamic l aw, as it increases the costs to mitigate legal claims. In addition, multinational companies like Coca-cola, Starbucks, and Sony Corporation pointed out that it is difficult for the company to practice their key values and corporate codes in KSA, for instance, Coca-cola experienced problem to promote products, Starbucks complained against the strict law for women and Sony ensured equal opportunities for all but here it is not possible to practice. Porter’s Five Forces or Micro Environment Analysis of Sony Threat of New Entrants: Threat of New Entrants is very low because of large investment required to enter telecommunication industry and it is difficult for any company to follow the rules and regulations of Saudi Arabia at initial stage. However, well-established multinational companies enter this prospective market by using several entry route strategies, such as they apply Joint Venture strategy to share competitive advantage and resources of other company; Bargaining Powe r of Customers: This power is relatively high in Saudi telecommunication sector as the customers are highly concern about the price of the products along with the quality of the telecommunication service; therefore, most of the Telecommunication service providers in Saudi Arabia try to offer quality service at low price. As a result, the switching off costs become too low to purchase the products of another company while the purchasing power of the Saudi Arabian customers are too high, therefore, the concept of customer loyalty is totally absent in the telecommunication industry of KSA. However, figure four shows Porter’s five forces Figure 4: Porter 5 forces of Sony Source: Self generated Bargaining Power of Suppliers: According to the report of telecommunication service providers in Saudi Arabia, the bargaining power of the suppliers is moderately high. However, technological support providers, machinery suppliers, and other raw material suppliers are the key suppliers in the telecommunication industry; therefore, Sony needs to maintain good relationship with the suppliers by imputing flexible provisions in the agreement and clearing dues on time. Threat of Substitutes: At present, the bargaining power of substitute products is too high in telecommunication industry, for instance, the customer can contact using e-mail service and can talk using Yahoo messengers, Google messengers, skype and so on. As a result, the importance of telephone for communication has reduced slowly, but this company can experience lose if the customers become more familiar with the services of substitute products. Competitive Rivalry: The competition among existing companies is extremely high as market leader of Saudi Telecommunication industry was losing market share due to high competitive market and new entrants; however, the following tables show the Financial Overview of STC and Mobily to compare the position of an old and a new company in this industry. Variables 20 08 (SR’ m) 2009 (SR’ m) 2010 (SR’ m) Total assets 26,600.45 29,220.21 29,538.41 Total liabilities 57,200.26 58,754.53 57,316.57 Total Equity 42,561.88 50,832.95 53,464.35 Total operating expenses (33,566.43) (18,187.11) (19,344.29) Operating Income 13,902.94 12,813.59 10,978.31 Net income (loss) 11,037.85 12,021.73 11,037.85 Table 2: Financial Overview of STC Source: Self generated from STC (2010) Variables 2008 (SR’ m) 2009 (SR’ m) 2010 (SR’ m) Total assets 27,191.55 30,821.79 33,430.45 Total liabilities 17,437.24 17,850.78 18,578.61 Total Equity 9,754.31 12,243.18 15,576.66 Total operating expenses (3,525.14) (4,338.67) (4,428.63) Gross Profit 6,021.05 7,546.55 8,783.42 Net income (loss) 2,091.783 3,013.87 4,211.48 Table 3: Financial Overview of Mobily Source: self-generated from Mobily (2010) Porter’s Generic Strategies for Sony’s New Telecommunications Business In order to start a new teleco mmunication business in Saudi Arabia, it is essential for Sony Corporation to identify a suitable strategy through which it would be able to compete more aggressively in the extensive rivalry on the telecommunication sector of Saudi Arabia. The following table shows three generic strategies introduced by Michael Porter, which would help the firm’s strategy makers to decide which one of these would suit the firm best to inaugurate the new business and bring about success at the very beginning of penetrating the market. The explanations of the generic strategies are given below to help the firm in making the decision about the choice of the initial market entry strategy- Generic Strategies Cost Leadership Differentiation Focus Assessment of the strategy and suitability Cost leadership means charging the customers with the lowest per unit (or average) cost in the industry; however, achieving a low cost position usually requires some resources and skills to enable low cost production, for example, massive capital investment in new technology that leads to large market share in the long-run, continued capital investment to maintain cost advantage through economies of scale and market share, developing cheaper ways to produce existing products, intensive monitoring of labor, where workers frequently have an incentive-based pay structure, etc Differentiating the product offering of a firm means building something that has perceived industry wide as being unique – it is a mean of making a firm’s own market to some extent; however, several approaches of differentiation are present that includes different design, brand image, number of features, etc; moreover, achieving a successful differentiation usually requires exclusivity, strong marketing skills, product innovation, applied RD, customer support; and less emphasis on incentive based pay structure Cost focus The corporation can make use of the cost leadership or differentiation approach with consideration of the focus strategy; so, if Sony uses the cost focus approach, it would simply aim for a cost advantage in its intended market section or present a range of interestingly priced items to a diminutive and specialized faction of purchasers Why this strategy is safe Why this strategy is safe Differentiation focus It protects the firm from powerful buyers who can drive price down only to the level of the next most efficient producer besides of defending against powerful suppliers; moreover, cost leadership provides elasticity to soak up an increase in input costs, whilst rivals may not have this flexibility; conversely, the factors that lead to cost leadership also provide entry barriers in many instances; economies of scale require probable rivals to come into the industry with considerable capacity to manufacture, and this means the cost of entry may be excessive to many potential competitors It insulates a firm from competitive rivalry by creating brand loya lty and reduces the price elasticity of demand by making consumers less sensitive to price changes in the products; besides, distinctiveness, almost by definition, builds barriers and reduces substitutes; in addition, this leads to higher margins, which reduces the need for a low-cost advantage; conversely, higher margins give the firm room to deal with powerful suppliers; differentiation also mitigates buyer power since buyers now have fewer alternatives As firms could make use of the focus strategy by focusing on a particular alcove in the market and presenting specialized products for that niche, if a company is using the differentiation focus approach, it would endeavor for differentiation in its target segment merely, and not in the entire market; it is arguable that this strategy provides the company the possibility to charge a premium price for superior quality Table 4: Porter’s Generic Strategies for New Telecommunications Business Source: Self generated In cost le adership, Sony will have to become the lowest cost producer in telecommunications business industry; the sources of cost advantage would vary depending on the structure of the industry in KSA; this may include pursuit of economies of scale, proprietary-technology, preferential-access to raw-materials and other factors; a low cost producer must find and exploit all sources of cost advantage. If Sony can attain and prolong general cost leadership, then it will be an above-average player in its industry, provided it can command prices at or near the industry-average; with this strategy, the objective is to become the lowest-cost manufacturer in the industry; many (perhaps all) market fragments in the industry are supplied with the importance placed to minimize costs. If the attained selling charge is at least alike (or close to) the average of the market, then the cheapest manufacturer would get pleasure from the best profits; however, this strategy is frequently connected with all-enc ompassing companies offering â€Å"standard† items with comparatively small differentiations that are absolutely satisfactory to the majority of consumers; moreover, this strategy further increases market share. In differentiation strategy, firms try to be idiosyncratic in the market for several characteristics that have extensively appreciated by buyers; they choose features that many purchasers distinguish as noteworthy, and so exclusively position the business to meet those needs; additionally, they are rewarded for its uniqueness with a premium price; however, clear reasons to prefer the product should be present. This strategy comprises choosing one or more principles used by buyers in a market – and then positioning the business exceptionally to meet those criteria; it is usually allied with indicting a premium price for the item habitually to mirror the superior production costs and additional value-added features provided for the consumers; differentiation more than covers the additional production costs. Focus strategy rests on the alternative of contracted competitive scope within an industry, as the focuser selects a section or group of segments in the market and tailors its strategy to serving them to the segregation of others; the focus strategy has two alternatives – cost and differentiation focus; in cost focus firm seeks cost advantage in its target segment. Here, a business seeks a lower cost advantage just in or on a little number of market sections; moreover, the manufactured goods would be fundamental – possibly a comparable item for consumption to the higher priced and attributed market leader, but satisfactory to adequate customers; such items for consumptions are often called â€Å"me too† items; this often exploits differences in cost-behavior. Conversely, through differentiation focus, firms create differentiation in their intended fragment; both alternates of the focus strategy rest on dissimilaritie s amid a focuser’s intended fragments and other sections in the market; intended fragments should either possess purchasers with atypical needs or else production and delivery system that best serves the intended fragment should differ from that of other industry segments. Differentiation focus exploits the special needs of buyers in certain niche segments, where a firm creates competitive advantage through demarcation within the niche or section; however, some possible troubles exist with the niche approach; for example, small, dedicated niches could depart in the long-term. Best Fitting Strategy for Sony’s New Telecommunication Business As discussed above, in cost leadership, producers offer goods, which are very common or similar to those of the rivals’; therefore, they try to charge lower prices to compete in the market. Moreover, little or no distinction has noticed in the items for sale those are offered by the cost leader and its competitors. In addition, being a successful cost leader is only possible when the production costs of the items has kept substantially lower than the other players in the market; besides, it is also important for the firm to ensure that it operates in economies of scale. It is significant to note that like most of the other products and services that Sony offers, its new telecommunications business would be differentiated as well, possessing a rage of different features that other telecommunication businesses in Saudi Arabia cannot afford with the outdated technological instruments. In this context because of using the latest technological tools and hi- tech amenities that are specially designed by the research and development team of the company, where massive expenditures were carried out owing to facilitate innovative idea regarding ICT and telecommunications, it is quite natural for the firm that it cannot put its production costs at very lower level. This indicates that because of very costly producti on process and highly differentiated services that possess a wide variety of new features which any other Saudi Arabian telecom firm may not offer so easily, cost leadership is not at a suitable generic strategy for Sony’s new business. On the other hand, it is notable to argue that Sony always aim its products and services to mass people, and it always perceives the idea that its innovation is not for any particular group or ethnic origin, rather, for the entire humanity on the planet. Owing to this vision of the corporation, it is usual that the new telecom business that it is commencing would not necessarily be for any niche in the market, but for all the Saudi Arabians who would love to take the opportunity from this awesome technological advancement of ICT and telecommunications. For this rationale, the â€Å"focus† strategy will also not be the best generic tactic for this business to follow. Under this circumstance because of high production costs, extreme diffe rentiations, and much consideration given to mass consumer base, it would be best for the company to go for differentiation strategy to start its new telecom business. Assessment of the Differentiation Strategy in Unpredictable Environment Differentiation strategy is not only the most suitable tactic for Sony to enter the telecom sector, but rather, a sustained differentiation would mean that under unpredictable environment, the sales of its telecom services would not get lower. Unpredictable environment may include declining demand that results from falling purchasing power of the customer and recession. If the recent creeping-inflation throughout the globe together with the slight presence of recession that started from September 2011 may cause a massive fall of demand in the future, therefore, highly differentiated services mean, the service would turn out to be a necessity for people, where falling purchasing power would have little impact because of the â€Å"inelasticity† that it offers. Conclusion As discussed throughout the paper, it is prospective for Sony to start a new business in KSA. However, the decision makers should consider all sides of this investment, together with risks, weaknesses, and the strategic fits before starting the business. Reference List Bloomberg Businessweek (2011). Earnings Estimates Summary – SONY CORP-SPONSORED ADR (SNE). Retrieved from http://investing.businessweek.com/research/stocks/earnings/earnings.asp?ticker=SNE:US Bloomberg Businessweek (2011). Sony Corp-Sponsored ADR (SNE: New York). Retrieved from http://investing.businessweek.com/research/stocks/financials/financials.asp?ticker=SNE:US Dogruer, B., Ferzly, M., Nguyen, H. (2001). Report on Sony Corporation. Retrieved from http://stuff.mit.edu/afs/athena/course/15/15.249c/Sony.pdf Mobily (2010) Consolidated Financial Statements and Auditors’ Report for the Year Ended December 31, 2010. Retrieved from http://www.mobily.com.sa/pv_obj_cache/pv_obj _id_06EF6A1C41DF81A39BC9618CB845090208465500/filename/2010%20CFS%20EN.pdf Reuters (2011). Sony Corp (6758.T). Retrieved from http://www.reuters.com/finance/stocks/chart?symbol=6758.T Sony Corporation (2010) Annual Report 2010 of Sony Corporation. Retrieved from http://www.sony.net/SonyInfo/IR/financial/ar/8ido18000003dkyy-att/8ido18000003dl0u.pdf Sony Corporation (2011). Company Profile. Retrieved from http://www.sony-europe.com/article/id/1178278971157 STC (2010) Consolidated Financial Statements for the Year Ended December 31, 2010. Retrieved from http://www.stc.com.sa/cws/content/en//stc/files/Financial-Statements/Annual-FS-2010-E.pdf Footnotes Corporate Social Responsibility This research paper on New Business of Sony was written and submitted by user Brennan L. 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.

buy custom Obamas Heath Care Plan essay

buy custom Obama's Heath Care Plan essay The health care plan by Obama was intended to offer the people of the United States with security under the reforms in the health care program. The plan was a design to offer stability and security to the people who already have insurance in heath care and those who did not have any form of health care in their condition with little cost or on free basis. The ultimate goal was to ensure the affordability of health care for businesses, families and the government at large (Reid, 2009). Upon its establishment, a lot of people thought that the health care plan was against the constitution of the United States. It was ideally thought that the plan contradicted the first amendment on the constitution where individuals have been given the right to choose as they please. The first amendment is desecrated since it requires all people to make a choice of health care. However, the Obama plan on health care was meant to strengthen the power of the people of the United States. The goal of the he alth care plan is to free the people of America from a system of corruption but many people are too blind to realize that. Many people view the same subject differently and my stand on this plan is very positive. There are high promises and unbounded hope in the future of health care in the United States. One of the advantages of the health care plan is the fact that it will not add a dime on the present deficit. The plan is paid for, upfront. It will create an autonomous commission of medical experts and doctors to identify fraud, abuse and waste in the system of health care. Again, the plan will actually order important and instant medical malpractice reform efforts that will assist medical professionals to prioritize their patients rather than engaging in defensive practice of medicine. All the same, big employers will be expected to cover their workers and people who can manage to buy insurance so that all people will become part of the reform plan. I am confident that the plan has a sustainable benefit that is achievable. The strategy of creating a national health insurance where people may purchase the new plan of the public would be very useful. This would require all participants to choose the public plan or opt for other qualifiers. Consequently, there will be a cost reduction as a result of the participation of all people. The cost of financing the program will be between $50 and $ 65 billion dollars which can be paid for by the other participants. The health care plan will have a very positive result on the economy. Initially, the present system of health care takes up about 18% of the countrys GDP ranking it the highest in the world. I am therefore positive to this plan because it will deal with that expense and promote a better care in health. A good number of the Americans without the health care insurance will access these services and thus enhance their welfare. This plan will help promote professionalism and transpa rency in the health care system where billions of dollars are lost to criminal acts. In conclusion, the Obamas health care plan may not have had a great impact initially but it is due to take its full course in like 5 to 10 years. It will be of great benefit to both the current and future generation. It is important for Americans to look into the future and abolish selfish stands by using everything at present. I am most confident that the Obama health care plan is a very useful option to address the current challenges in the health care system. The current system of health care is founded on making huge profits at the expense of the welfare of the people in the United States. Therefore, Obamas health care plan is a useful endeavor that moves in the right direction to turn around the fortunes of Americans. Buy custom Obama's Heath Care Plan essay

Celebrity Endorsement in India Essay Example for Free

Celebrity Endorsement in India Essay In India, celebrities are idolized as Gods and marketers have been trying their best to tap on this emotional connect of the people with the celebrities. Today, most of the popular brands are being endorsed by a famous personality either from entertainment industry or sports arena. Strategic brand positioning and effective communication are the keys to success in today’s market where many brands compete in the same category for the market share. Companies are employing their maximum might to promote their brands and occupy a long lasting image in the minds of the consumers. In India, television is the most popular and effective means of the mass communication. There are over three million television commercials being aired every year. However, 80 percent of them are forgotten by the people in a day or two. So, it is imperative for the marketers to ensure that their ad campaign stands out amongst the crowd (Suhalka, n.d.). Since advertising is a highly critical tool for luring customers to make purchases, Indian firms are investing millions of rupees on celebrity advertising (Khatri, 2006). Celebrity endorsements are also an easy option for Indian marketers because of the disparities of the Indian consumer base in terms of religion, ethinicity, value system and most importantly economic variations. Therefore, advertisers in India emphasis a lot on brand recall and customer persuasion for differentiating their ad campaigns from those of the counterparts. It is here that celebrity endorsement provides a tremendous boost (Surana, 2008). For instance, one of the strongest celebrity endorser is cricketer Sachin Tendulkar who is a youth icon and endorses many successful brands like, Pepsi, Boost, Aviva Life Insurance, TVS, Britannia Biscuits, Visa, Airtel etc. Like, Shahrukh Khan, Amitabh Bac hchan, Kareena Kapoor also have many brands in their kitties. Indians love their celebrities and blindly follow their suit. This has proved to be a boon for the marketers and celebrity endorsement is just getting better by the day. It has now become an indispensible part of the marketing communication strategy. It is a win ?win situation for both the celebrities and the brands. However, the consumers are ones who are least benefitted as they end up paying more for the products and services. †¢ Khatri, P., 2006. Celebrity Endorsement: A Strategic Promotion Perspective. Indian Media Studies Journal, 1(1).Pp. 25-37 †¢ Suhalka,G.n.d. Celebrity Endorsers and Endorsements in India- The Rise and the Impact [pdf] Available at: http://www.ndtvmi.com/b4/dopesheets/garima.pdf [Accessed 18 February 2012] †¢ Surana,R., 2008. The Effectiveness of Celebrity Endorsement in India [pdf] Available at: http://edissertations.nottingham.ac.uk/2069/1/08MAlixrs13.pdf [Accessed 18 February 2012] Commentary | Theses | Dissertations | Journals & Articles | Proposals & Synopsis | Essays | Promotional Writing | Press Release Copyright  © 2005 – 2012 Project Guru India. All rights reserved. www.ProjectGuru.in Celebrity Endorsement in India. (2016, Dec 07).

Crime Seriousness and Prior Criminal Record Dissertation

Crime Seriousness and Prior Criminal Record - Dissertation Example As the discussion declares there is a positive correlation between a person’s prior criminal record and the chances that firstly, such a person is more likely to commit an offence in the future, and secondly, that there is a greater probability of such offences resulting in imprisonment. Moreover, as a result of mandatory sentencing policies, repeat offenders are now far more likely to face imprisonment. A prior record sets into motion totally different responses amongst law enforces, with the suspect considered ‘guilty until proved innocent’, rather than the other way around which is the basis of modern jurisprudence. However, this ground reality has resulted in two developments that go contrary to conventional logic. This paper stresses that though crime rates have declined, prison populations have actually increased, which questions the very basic premise that the threat of getting caught and imprisoned actually deters crime. In fact, the prison population is likely to grow in coming years. A study by the Bureau of Justice Statistics revealed that the 1994 prison population would rise by 51% by the year 2000. This is a direct result of taking into account a person’s prior criminal record, however minor and irrespective of the relevance of previous offences to the new charge. The other aspect is the increasing numbers of African Americans in particular that constitute the prison population. This is in spite of the fact that several positive changes in society such as the civil rights movement and enhanced educational and employment opportunities.

William's Willson Argument Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

William's Willson Argument - Essay Example Quality of life is not a simple identifier, nor is it necessarily easy to determine what the term actually means as some people identify the quality of their lives based on different metrics. For some, quality is about health and family. For others, it centers upon money or position. There is another group of people who define quality of life in terms of personal or professional fulfillment. To guide the analysis here, it will be useful to review Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs to find a baseline for a life that has quality. In their review of what motivates humans, Stacey & DeMartino (1958) note the arrangement of human needs, as presented by Maslow, to be five levels, each building upon the other, i.e., physiological needs, then safety needs, love needs, followed by esteem needs, and concluded with the need for self-actualization (p. 2). The logic of this hierarchy is straightforward in that a person who is hungry or in danger is not going to be concentrating on whether they are being actualized or fulfilled. At that moment, quality of life means food or safety. This is where the question of what quality of life means to an individual comes into play. For example, there are many who equate higher quality of life with financial means or the higher social status money brings to an individual. Yet, a child born to the richest person in the world who has terminal cancer would likely not be identified as having a high quality of life. The ability of the disease, which no amount of money or social class can cure, obviates what most would describe as a high-quality life. The poor minority family with healthy children could arguable be sustaining a higher quality of life. For the purposes of this paper, however, the assumption will be that quality of life includes the premise that sufficient physiological health and safety are assured, and the qualities of love, self-esteem, and fulfillment are the variable

Summary of Chua Essay Example for Free

Summary of Chua Essay To change the emphasis of mainstream accounting research from hypothetico-deductivism and technical control assumptions to alternative views and obtain a fundamentally different and potentially rich research insights. Aim 1. To enable accounting researchers to self-reflect on the dominant assumptions that they share and, more importantly, the consequence of adopting this position. a. Limited the types of problems studied b. The use of research methods c. The possible research insights that could be obtained Author believes that such limitations can only become clear when they are exposed to the challenge of alternative world-views 2. To introduce such alternative set of assumptions, illustrate how they change both problem definition and solution, and offer research which is fundamentally different from that currently prevailing. 3. To argue that, not only are these alternative world-views different, they can potentially enrich and extend our understanding of accounting. Authors intended audience Positivist researchers, Public, Professionals, academics, All researchers Arguments presented to support main point Recent classifications of accounting perspectives Cooper (19830 ad Hopper ad Powel (1985) rely on the sociological work of Burrell and Morgan (1979) * Classification of accounting literature: 1. social sciences – includes assumptions about: * ontology of the social world (realism v. nominalism) * epistemology (positivism v. anti-positivism) * human nature (determinism v. voluntarism) * methodology (nomothetic v. ideographic) 2. society – characterizes it as orderly or subject to fundamental conflict Burell and Morgan (1979) Four paradigms used to classify accounting theories * Functionalist * Interpretive * Radical humanist Radical structuralist Problems persisted so accounting perspectives are differentiated with reference to underlying assumptions about knowledge, the empirical phenomena under study, and the relationship between theory and the practical world of human affairs. A classification of assumptions â€Å"knowledge is produced by people, for people, and is about people and their social and physical environm ent† Beliefs about knowledge Epistemological assumptions * Decide what to count about acceptable truth by specifying the criteria and process of assessing truth claims * E. . an epistemological assumption might state that a theory is considered true if it is repeatedly not falsifiable by empirical events Methodological assumptions * Indicate that research methods deemed appropriate for the gathering of valid evidence. * E. g. large-scale sample surveys or laboratory experiments that are â€Å"statistically sound† may be considered acceptable research methods. Both sets of assumptions are closely related. What is a â€Å"correct† research method will depend on how truth is defined. Belief about physical and social reality Ontology Object of Study * People may be viewed as identical to physical objects and be studied in the same manner * Criticism: people cannot be treated as natural scientific objects because they are self-interpretive beings who create the structures around them (Habermas, (1978) and winch (1958)) How people relate to one another and society as a whole * Every social theory makes assumptions about the nature of human society-is it, for example full of conflict or essentially stable and orderly Relationship between theory and practice Questions Purpose of knowledge in the world of practice, How may it be employed to better people’s welfare * Theory may be related to practice in several ways, each representing a particular value position on the part of the scientist (Fay (1975)). Unlike Burell and Morgan, this set of assumptions is used to assess the strengths and weaknesses of alternative perspectives in accounting. This is not an attempt to describe world-views in a value-free, non-evaluatory language

Advertising . . . It’s What’s for Dinner :: Personal Narrative Papers

Advertising . . . It’s What’s for Dinner I was putting the finishing touches on the chicken when the doorbell rang. I ran to the table to make sure everything was in place. I wanted tonight to run as smoothly as possible because it isn’t every night that you get to have such internet advertising experts over for dinner. When I opened the door I was surprised to see all three of my guest standing before me. I guess it was coincidence that they all arrived at the very same time, but, nevertheless, they were right on the dot and I welcomed them into my home. After we all made our introductions, I took their coats and gave them a quick tour of my small, but cozy house. I found it funny that even before everyone was formally introduced I clearly could guess the identity of each person. I guessed that the woman in the business suit was Ms. Heim. She works for Media Week magazine and because of her to the point, matter of fact writing style she seems exactly like the type of woman who would have to wear a suit so much that it has become her own fashion statement. But surprisingly, her hair was down and hanging just above her shoulders, softening the official business-look of the suit. Ms. Zeff was more on the casual side wearing a nice sun dress that seemed proper for a woman of her age. The color of the dress was a peachy orange that accented her skin tones and gave her a very warm and loving appearance. Not to mention the wrinkles on her forehead that translated into a woman full of wisdom and knowledge. However, her appearance was not one that you would imagine for a woman of such caliber. But even though she has a PhD1, she refused to be addressed as Dr. Zeff - she simply told us that Robbin or Ms. Zeff would be fine.

The Differences between the Empire State Building and Burj Al-Arab Hotel

The differences between Empire State Building and Burj Al-Arab Hotel There are two celebrated edifices in the universe, called Empire State Building and Burj Al-Arab Hotel. Empire State Building is located in New York, and it is one of the tallest constructions in New York, even in the universe. Another one of the universe tallest edifices is Burj Al-Arab Hotel, it is located in Dubai. In this essay, I will compare and contrast them in history, uses and being celebrated. In the Empire State Building’s history, it is 1250 pess tall and was the tallest edifice in the universe when it was built in 1931. At that clip, it was non merely go a landmark of New York, but besides became a symbol of accomplishing the impossible. There was a skyscraper race in the universe in 20 century. Walter Chrysler, the laminitis of the Chrysler Corporation, was building a monumental edifice, the tallness of which he was maintaining secret until the edifice ‘s completion. John Jakob Raskob, antecedently a frailty president of General Motors, decided to fall in this race, and he wanted to crush Chrysler. Not cognizing precisely what height he had to crush, John started building on his ain edifice, the Empire State Building. The Empire State Building completed with an astonishing effort that the full edifice was constructed in merely one twelvemonth and 45 yearss and merely cost around 41 million dollars ( Jennifer Rosenberg ) . Similarly, there are besides many glorifications in the history of Burj Al-Arab Hotel. For illustration, it was the tallest sea-based hotel in the universe at a tallness of 321 metres when it was completed in 1999. As the ground of edifice Burj Al-Arab Hotel is wholly different with the Empire State Building, that the authorities of Dubai wanted a edifice that would go an iconic or symbolic statement with the name of the state, merely as what it has been. The design of Burj Al-Arab Hotel was inspired by the wind-filled canvass of an Arab trading dhow ship, and that is why it is built on an unreal island. Unlike the Empire State Building, the building of Burj Al-Arab Hotel cost a big sum of money and clip that it was built in 1994 and be around 650 million dollars to construct. And this money made it go the coal of the Leading Hotels of the World ( Rick Archer ) . The Empire State Building is built as an office edifice, so the primary use is supplying office infinites for companies. But because it is located on the most comfortable parts of Manhattan Island, the rent of office infinites is expensive. Even though the rent is excessively dearly-won, the major companies of different countries, such as finance, touristry and insurance, lease an office in the Empire State Building, because of its celebrated and demoing the capacities of their companies. In add-on, the Empire State Building is known by the universe, so it becomes one of the most celebrated tourer attractive forces in New York. For absorbing more tourers, there are different sorts of exhibitions in the museum of the Empire State Building. Of class, many sorts of bars and nines are necessary, and tourers can see all attractive forces in New York in several proceedingss ( Empire State Building ) . However, as a hotel, the uses of Burj Al-Arab Hotel are about different with the Empire State Building, it is built for touristry. But because Dubai wanted to do it go an iconic, the Burj Al-Arab Hotel was absolutely built with strong Islamic manner, excessive decor and high engineering ( Burj Al-Arab Hotel ) . Similar to the Empire State Building, this makes it go one of the most celebrated and the most expensive hotels in the universe, the every night rates start merely north of $ 1500. Both Empire State Building and Burj Al-Arab Hotel have a phase on the acme of them, although the phase of Burj Al-Arab Hotel is a rooftop helipad. So if you are affluent plenty to populate in it, the hotel besides offers chopper service from the airdrome to hotel ( Justin Delaney ) . As we know, the Empire State Building is the world’s most celebrated office edifice, but I want to inquire, why does it go such celebrated? And I found out that it is celebrated by its tallness and films. And the major ground is from the clip it was built in the 1930 ‘s to the edifice of the World Trade Center towers in the 1970 ‘s it was the tallest edifice in the universe, even now it still ranks among the top 10 and is the tallest edifice in New York ( Why is the Empire State Building celebrated? ) . Furthermore, the film that made it celebrated isKing Kong, one of the most noteworthy films in American history. In this film, the originalKing Kongof 1933 used a theoretical account of the newly-completed Empire State Building for Kong to mount at the flood tide ( What film made the Empire State Building celebrated? ) . This image non merely made the Empire State Building noticed by the universe, but besides became the most authoritative scene ofKing Kong. Similarly, Burj Al-Arab Hotel used to be world’s tallest hotel, but now it is still the world’s 2nd tallest hotel. on the other manus, it is non simply celebrated by its tallness, its expensiveness is besides celebrated in the universe. For illustration, the monetary value of a Royal suite is 20 1000 dollars, per dark. The monetary value can make the cost of a mid-sized saloon, doing it one of the universe ‘s most expensive suites, even a smallest room besides needs 1500 dollars. But the expensiveness is sensible, because the installations and helping of Burj Al-Arab Hotel are the best in the universe. For case, when the clients of Burj Al-Arab Hotel go out of the airdrome, they have two lavish picks: travel to hotel by Rolls Royce saloons or chopper. If you choose helicopter, you will hold a opportunity to watch the Dubai from sky in 15 proceedingss. Those are the grounds why they have a batch of clients, even the suites are expensive ( Burj Al-Arab Hotel ) . Why did I want to compare the Empire State Building and Burj Al-Arab Hotel? Because these two edifice represent the people who live in different period and different states. The Empire State Building shows America had become one of the most affluent states in 1930, and American people liked to demo their power and wealth. For the Burj Al-Arab Hotel, it shows the Dubai had an outstanding economic system, and the Arabs more attention about their state After comparing the Empire State Building and the Burj Al-Arab Hotel in three different ways, I found out: In history, they were built for different intents, the Empire State Building was built for a personal glorification, but the Burj Al-Arab Hotel was built because of the dream of doing a landmark for Dubai, but likewise, both of them used to be the tallest edifice in their types ; in uses, both constructions link to the local touristry, although the Empire State Building besides provides offices to companies ; in being celebrated, both of them are celebrated for their tallness, nevertheless, the Empire State is besides celebrated by a film,King Kong, and the Burj Al-Arab Hotel is besides celebrated for its expensiveness and helping. Overall, even though they are similar in some parts, they still represent different images of their states to the universe. Work Citedâ€Å"Burj Al-Arab Hotel† . baike.com Feb 11 2014hypertext transfer protocol: //www.baike.com/wiki/ % E9 % 98 % BF % E6 % 8B % 89 % E4 % BC % AF % E5 % A1 % 94 % E9 % 85 % 92 % E5 % BA % 97â€Å"Empire State Building† . Baike.com Feb 11 2014hypertext transfer protocol: //www.baike.com/wiki/ % E5 % B8 % 9D % E5 % 9B % BD % E5 % A4 % A7 % E5 % 8E % A6Jennifer Rosenberg. â€Å"The Empire State Building † . About.com. Feb 9 2014.hypertext transfer protocol: //history1900s.about.com/od/1930s/a/empirestatebldg.htmJustin Delaney. â€Å"Dubai ‘s iconic Burj Al Arab – the universe ‘s most glamourous hotel † . gadling.com. Jun 21 2011.hypertext transfer protocol: //www.gadling.com/2011/06/21/the-iconic-burj-al-arab-the-worlds-most-glamorous-hotel/Rick Archer. â€Å"The Most Beautiful Hotel in the World † . ssqq.com. July 2004hypertext transfer protocol: //ssqq.com/archive/vinlin23.htmâ€Å"What film made the Empire State Building celebrated? † wiki.answers.com Feb 11 2014hypertext transfer protocol: //wiki.answers.com/Q/What_movie_made_the_Empire_State_Building_famous # slide=3 & A ; article=What_movie_made_the_Empire_State_Building_famousâ€Å"Why is the Empire State Building celebrated? † wiki.answers.com Feb 11 2014hypertext transfer protocol: //wiki.answers.com/Q/Why_is_the_Empire_State_Building_famous # slide=7 & A ; article=Why_is_the_Empire_State_Building_famous

Structure of the continuous improvement Essay

Matrix organization structure is a hybrid divisional and functional structure. As this company is starting to grow, using this structure will help it develop and manage well. The matrix structure allows for the benefits of functional and divisional structures to exist in one organization. The matrix organizational structure divides authority both by functional area and by project. In a matrix structure, each employee answers to two immediate supervisors: a functional supervisor and a project supervisor which is very needed in this company. Communication is very important for new structure, as clear guidance and information are need between management and employees. The matrix structure has several advantages such as resource coordination, which allows supervisors to focus on their areas of expertise. Functional supervisors focus on hiring, training and managing employees in their field, while project supervisors can focus on achieving the goals of their specific projects or products. Employees will be more specialization as they are placed in functional areas allows them to specialize in a particular field. Instead of being good at variety of tasks, specialized employees can excel at tasks in their field of focus. Matrix structure also allows employee is to develop wider set of skills by working in team with other department member in a project team. Employees have constant contact with members of different functional areas, the matrix structure allows for information and resources to travel more fluidly between those functional areas. The collaboration between functional areas allows projects team to better handle complex challenges and objectives which one the weakness of old structure make them delay delivery causing them to lose major clients. Also this allows for human resources to be shared flexibly across different projects or products. Functional areas maintain a stock of talented employees to meet projects requirements. his organizational structure can help improve the company structure and weakness so that the mistakes made in the past cannot repeat again by employee and continue to improve business and expanded across Australia. As in the detail says that lot of mistakes happen such as missing major accountant with engineering spare parts supplier due to the lack of support that the current IT system could offer in tracking deliveries, also employee are nervous as the impact that losing the major client have on business, which shows lack confidents and professionalism. There have been many formal complaints made to management on the lack of information that is being discussed with them and that they do not feel valued anymore. There is a site manager in each state and they hold a phone conference meeting each month, but the meetings with site department manager and their teams do not occur regularly. First IT system need to improved and handle by experts as it’s very important to keep records and track of business clients. It will also help to see weak areas and improve them. Also help them save the delivery time. The human resource need to provide training to the employees so they can know the work well and feel confident on what they are doing. They need to know how to handle clients and work like professional. This will help them to provide good service to the clients and make company image good in the eyes of clients. The communication is very important in the organization so because of the lack of communication between the information flow between the employees and management has been effective which cause work problems and misunderstandings. So the communication between the employee and management need to be improved. Another problem is meeting, the meeting needs to take place once a week, and meeting is good way to discussed ideas and share problem. It is also good way to improve the relationship. The management should encourage employees to voice their opinion and support them to be more creative. The organization should handle complaint from client sincerely because this can help to organization to improve their service and this also improves the relationship between company and clients. Effective mentoring and coaching process The basic communication skill of a mentor or coach is not only a certain level of verbal communication skill but as well as the non-verbal  communication skill. The difference between coaching and mentoring are that, the purpose of coaching is to improve the individual’s performance on the job, which involves either enhancing current skills or acquiring new skills on areas in which the employee is in need of coaching but only for a short period of time, maybe even just a few sessions. The coaching lasts for as long as is needed, depending on the purpose of the coaching relationship, and once the coachee successfully acquires the skills, the coach is no longer needed. However, the purpose is to develop the individual not only for the current job, but as well as for the future job. It seeks to provide a safe environment where the mentoree shares whatever issues affect his or her professional and personal success, though specific learning goals or competencies may be used as a basis for creating the relationship, it’s focus goes beyond these areas to include things, such as work and life balance, self-confidence, self-perception, and how the personal influences the professional. However, this distinction differentiates the role of the immediate manager and that of the mentor, and reduces the possibility of creating conflict between the employee’s manager and the mentor. The coach or mentor is a facilitator, not an instructor. They support and challenge the employees to lean and to develop. The employees learn by acquiring new awareness, insight, skills, idea and knowledge. Development involves integrating their learning into the way they are. It is more important that a facilitator asks good questions than that they have ‘right’ answers. Good questions provoke new perspectives and change in the employees. The effective coach or mentor reviews the learning relationship and the learning process, and does not take those for granted, and finds learning methods that suit the employee. They need to help the employees to clarify how they learn best, and how to make coaching or mentoring work for them. Moreover, effective coach or mentor needs to understand the importance of what happens to the employees between each time they coach or mentoring them. Company strategy In the following case study, it has stated that there is a problem with the  outdated system that they have been implementing throughout the last few months. Systems that relates to management of the company and its groups has been not updated for a long time hence the result in formal policies and procedures not working as planned and not being that effective. As a result, there is a huge decrease in the performance from the employees such as late delivery and delay on products that should have been mailed to the customers. In order to ensure that all systems and processes that are used to monitor operational progress and customer service and see what ways we can use to identify the ways in which planning and operation can be improved, we as a Continuous Improvement Manager who has been hired by the Fast Forwarding company should create a company strategy that can improve the bad situation that has been occurring in the company. First of all, we can suggest that the company can use the KPI indicator system which can be very helpful to identify each and every person in the office and how they are performing. Recording each and every action and converting the performance of how well they are doing, the company can understand what the weakness of the employees and the workers are as well be able to identify the needs and requirements that they have to complete to reach the indicated priority that they want to be in. The indicators also tell the company how well they are doing and also measure the overall performance of the business itself. By applying Key Performance Indicator as a company strategy, they will be able to update every members of the company about the objective and therefore find and solve the weakness that has been affecting the performance of the company. Second of all, the use of SWOT analysis can help indicate and scan the company’s strength, weakness, opportunity and threat. If the company uses the analysis to effectively figure out the weakness and threats of the company itself, they might be able to see what problem is occurring and how much effect it has on the business performance and sales. After they find out what the weaknesses are and what threats might be there that has been creating a barrier from any improvements in their business. They can  implement different alternatives and solution to minimize the problems or completely wipe it out. Apart from the above use of the systems and analysis, there must be a custom of creating a daily check and updates on the system so that it doesn’t get outdated and create a big problem later on for the future. Since it affected formal policies and procedures as well as the whole system that the company is using for the business, the employees are unable to keep up with current system and therefore they lack enough information to be able to hold their performance in a stable way. Other alternatives to be able to improve the company’s problem, the organization can use the Management information system which provides information that the organizations require to manage themselves efficiently and effectively. Since the IT system of the company Fast Forwarding has been outdated for a long time and haven’t been reviewed by any of the company’s men, we suggest that they apply the MIS to be able to update any information that they have crucial need in. It provides a fixed schedules and reports regularly which can provide vital updates to the company when they need it. The MIS also contain systems such as Decision Support System (DSS), Executive Information System (EIS), Office Automation System (OAS), School Information Management Systems (SIMS) and Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP). 1. Decision Support System (DSS): It’s a system that helps in the decision making for the middle and higher management to complete information from a wide range of sources to support in problem solving and decision making. It mostly helps in structured and unstructured problems. 2. Executive Information System (EIS): This is a system that concludes all the information that has been provided by all the departments and organizations so that they are able to summarize them with ease and convenience through proper order. 3. Office Automation System (OAS): The system supports the communication and  productivity in the enterprise by automatically sending all the information and work flows for each of the employees easily. This helps in an efficient way to spread all the working information to everyone in the workplace at the same time and as fast as possible. 4. School Information Management Systems (SIMS): This system covers the administration on teaching and learning materials that can help in assisting the employees with the training and experience providing necessary materials for them to utilize during the session for training and mentoring. 5. Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP): The system facilitates the flow of information inside the organizations throughout each departments as well as mange the flow and connections of stakeholders that are outside the boundaries of organization. To conclude, the system that they used had many flaws because they haven’t updated or review for a long time. Therefore, as given solution regarding company strategy up above, if they implement it with care, the company can overcome the problems that they have having and finally be able to improve the performance and the status of the business. How to informing Stakeholders are those person, group or organizations that are interested in the project that the company has been working on and therefore have trusted them enough to invest on the company. So in order to inform all the stakeholders about the new company strategy, we can use different communication strategy to be able to give them all the details and information concerning the new changes. Firstly, we can create a schedule for all the stakeholders so that they can be gathered up for the meeting. We can provide all the stakeholders with the notice through person, all the stakeholders can gather up in a precise location and discuss the new changes and be able to confirm that everybody gets it. Another way is to use technological factors to inform all the stakeholders. Different alternatives such as mailing the information to the stakeholders can also be used as one of the communication strategy to immediately inform every stakeholder as well as give them a softcopy of everything that needs to be included as changes of the new company strategy. As a conclusion there can be different ways to use communication strategy to forward different details and information to the stakeholders so that they can be updated every now and often. Future planning One of the biggest challenges faced by any kinds of companies and organizations are how to plan for the future, what to invest in, where to place your bet? It is really hard to perfectly predict the coming future and prepare for those upcoming situations, but we do have the creative thinking skills and behaviors to build an imaginative look at the future and to help the company to create powerful future scenarios and plan appropriate implications create powerful future scenarios and plan appropriate implications. I believe, the only way to lead a company to succeed is to be able to build new, advantaged knowledge that others do not know but we discover through powerful designs. Also, it is important to discover the unknown future opportunities that we do not know. In order to higher the chance to be successful, we have to do more than long term strategy, which an advanced model for foresight requires treating it as much more than the prediction of futurists or a technology development exercise. It should involve both analytical and imaginative thinking, which reaches beyond typical corporate approaches to strategic planning. However, it typically does not have a single answer, so we must consider multiple scenarios and make some collective bets in order to avoid worse-case scenario.

A Ginkgo Trees Profile and Planting Tips

A Ginkgo Trees Profile and Planting Tips Ginkgo is nearly pest-free and is resistant to storm damage. Young trees are often very open but they fill in to form a denser canopy as they mature. It makes a durable street tree where there is enough overhead space to accommodate the large size. Ginkgo tolerates most soil, including compacted, and alkaline, and grows slowly 75 feet or more tall. The tree is easily transplanted and has a vivid yellow fall color which is second to none in brilliance, even in the south. However, leaves fall quickly and the fall color show is short.  See Ginkgo Photo Guide. Quick Facts Scientific name: Ginkgo bilobaPronunciation: GINK-go bye-LOE-buhCommon name(s): Maidenhair Tree, GinkgoFamily: GinkgoaceaeUSDA hardiness zones:: 3 through 8AOrigin: native to AsiaUses: Bonsai; wide tree lawns; recommended for buffer strips around parking lots or for median strip plantings in the highway; specimen; sidewalk cutout (tree pit); residential street tree; tree has been successfully grown in urban areas where air pollution, poor drainage, compacted soil, and/or drought are commonAvailability: generally available in many areas within its hardiness range. Form Height: 50 to 75 feet.Spread: 50 to 60 feet.Crown uniformity: irregular outline or silhouette.Crown shape: round; pyramidal.Crown density: denseGrowth rate: slow Ginkgo Trunk and Branches Description Trunk/bark/branches: droop as the tree grows, and will require pruning for vehicular or pedestrian clearance beneath the canopy; showy trunk; should be grown with a single leader; no thorns.Pruning requirement: needs little pruning to develop except during the early years. The tree has a strong structure.Breakage: resistantCurrent year twig color: brown or gray Foliage Description Leaf arrangement: alternateLeaf type: simpleLeaf margin: top lobed Pests This tree is pest-free and considered resistant to gypsy moth. The Ginkgos Stinky Fruit Female plants are wider-spreading than the males. Only male plants should be used as the female produces foul smelling fruit in late autumn. The only way to select a male plant is to purchase a named  cultivar  including ‘Autumn Gold’, ‘ Fastigiata’, ‘Princeton Sentry’, and ‘Lakeview’ because there is no reliable way to select a male plant from a seedling until it fruits. It could take as long as 20 years or more for Ginkgo to fruit. Cultivars There are several cultivars: ‘Autumn Gold’- male, fruitless, bright gold fall color and rapid growth rate‘Fairmont’ - male, fruitless, upright, oval to pyramidal form‘Fastigiata’ - male, fruitless, upright growth‘Laciniata’ - leaf margins deeply divided‘Lakeview’ - male, fruitless, compact broad conical form‘Mayfield’ - male, upright fastigiate (columnar) growth‘Pendula’ - pendent branches‘Princeton Sentry’ - male, fruitless, fastigiate, narrow conical crown for restricted overhead spaces, popular, 65 feet tall, available in some nurseries‘Santa Cruz’ - umbrella-shaped, ‘Variegata’ - variegated leaves. Ginkgo in Depth The tree is easy to care for and require only occasional water and a little high-nitrogen fertilizer that will stimulate the growth of its unique leaf. Apply the fertilizer in late fall to early spring. The tree should be pruned in late winter to early spring. Ginkgo may grow extremely slow for several years after planting, but will then pick up and grow at a moderate rate, particularly if it receives an adequate supply of water and some fertilizer. But do not overwater or plant in a poorly-drained area. Be sure to keep turf several feet away from the trunk to help trees become established. Very tolerant of urban soils and pollution, Ginkgo could be used more in USDA hardiness zone 7 but is not recommended in central and southern Texas or Oklahoma due to summer heat. Adapted for use as a street tree, even in confined soil spaces. Some early pruning to form one central leader is essential. There is some support for the trees medical use. Its seed has been recently been used as both a memory and concentration enhancer with some positive effects on Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, Ginkgo biloba has also been suggested as relieving many disease symptoms but  has never been approved by the   FDA as anything but an herbal product.