Category: Samples

Based on the Chapter 9 case ?Tata Motors and the Fiat Auto: Joining Forces,? write a four to five (4-5) page paper that addresses the following:
1. Explain the business opportunity in India.
2. Based on your understanding of the case, explain if Fiat can benefit from a partner and provide your rationale.
3. Discuss whether Fiat and Tata can make good partners and provide at least two examples supporting your position.
4. Discuss possible challenges that could affect the partnership long term.
5. Evaluate the business case for a joint venture strategy and support your rationale.
6. Make recommendations for the alliance to be successful.

The format of the paper is to be as follows:

?Typed, double-spaced, Times New Roman font (size 12), one-inch margins on all sides, APA format.
?Use headers for each of the subjects being covered, followed by your response.
?In addition to the four to five (4-5) pages required, a title page is to be included. The title page is to contain the title of the assignment, your name, the instructor?s name, the course title, and the date.
Note: You will be graded on the quality of your answers, the logic/organization of the report, your language skills, and your writing skills.
The assignment will be graded using the following rubric:

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Reinaldo Hartono

Personal Statement Seattle University

 

Proud, outstanding, achievement oriented, and understanding, are the words that grave my life. I was born in Indonesia but moved to Seattle while in high school. The two places have shaped who I am in numerous ways, and I am glad for the opportunities they gave me. Moving to America was a new experience for me. I had come from a conservative region, where people uphold their traditions, and are more strict concerning the way they lead their lives than the Americans are. I love learning, and I believe that great minds are formed through education. The right education, applied the right way, equips a person with the tools needed to change the world. This, I believe, is the first step towards a transformed world.

My dad owns a building and house construction company, and he is the director of Windows and Doors Aluminums Specialist in Jakarta Indonesia. I have long since admired the work that he does, and I have seen how it can help people. I have aspirations and dreams to introduce my father’s company to the world, and develop the company to greater heights to surpass its rivals. In order to do this, I need to be well equipped and knowledgeable in business. I intend to make my father’s company global, and I know that I have to acquire in depth education for me to do that. I believe that Seattle University is the stepping-stone I need to do this. It is one of the most recognized universities in the world, and it has an enviable business education program.

Like many teenagers, I enjoyed my social life in high school. My academic life, on the other hand, was nothing to be proud of, for I never took my studies seriously. I transferred from Jakarta, Indonesia to Seattle, where I joined Shoreline Community College as an international student. It was here that I completed my high school program. This was a big move for me, because I was experiencing different cultures, and different people. I was in a new and foreign country, and I loved it. I made sure I had as much fun as I possibly could, and I enjoyed the freedom,. This inflicted a massive blow to my academics, for I ended up receiving poor grades. It was after getting my results that I realized how much I had lost my focus. My parents were working hard in Indonesia, while I was in America having fun and wasting time. I realized the disappointment I had become, and from that day, I resolved to change my attitude towards life. I chose to be serious with life, and concentrate on my studies.

Time travels fast, especially when one is occupied. I used my time well, and I was not disappointed with my results. I started seeing huge improvements in my studies, and my grades started improving. Once I began concentrating on my studies, I started enjoying learning, and I realized how easy it was for me to get excellent grades. Previously I would fail two or three courses, but once I started working hard, I began passing all the courses I took. I finished my high school diploma, and this has enabled me to further my education. I realize that I am lucky for having got the opportunity to learn and advance my studies. I did my degree in business, and this propelled me to greater heights, and enabled me to expand my horizons. I was able to learn business fundamentals, and gain business experience. However, I knew that I needed more education, thus my interest in your institutions MBA program. My parents never had such opportunities, due to the tough economic times. They received minimal education, but they worked hard to make sure that I have a better life.

I chose Seattle University and Albers School of Business and Economics because of their commitment towards education perfection. I admire their mission and vision, and the methods they use to educate their students. Moreover, I admire their commitment towards improving their communities, and the high quality graduates they produce. These qualities are attractive and admirable. Research conducted in 2012 by The U.S News and World Reports indicate that Seattle University is among the top ten universities. This year, the Fisks Guide to Colleges give the university four-five star academic rating and recognize it as one of the most inexpensive universities in the country. These facts are only a small representation of the qualities and achievements of Seattle University. I would feel honored to be accepted to this institution. I would appreciate the chance to study at the institution, and receive an MBA, as part of my degree requirement. I acknowledge the importance of quality education today. It is not only desirable to get a higher education, but it has become a necessity for survival.

The institution is not only recognized for having quality graduates, but also producing graduates with character. Many institutions seem to have forgotten the importance of character building, and this is unfortunate in today’s society. The students’ character is built from the strong catholic background, which enables students to recognize the relationships between humanity, God, and nature. I am a practicing Catholic, and I believe in these ideals. I am fortunate that my university of choice has a way to connect religion and studies. The only time I had this experience was when learning religious studies in high school, and even then, it was clear that the teacher did not know how to integrate learning and religion. Catholic run institutions provide the best education, due to their strict emphasis on quality education.

The diversity that is at the university will enable me to interact with people form diverse backgrounds. The university’s students and faculty come from different cultures and backgrounds. They have diverse experiences, and I know that this will help me in the future. The world of business is diverse, and one interacts with people from different areas. The university will give me a lead in the desired direction. I will learn how other cultures live, and will be able to find out how people live together despite their differences. The university’s mission aims at educating a person, and influencing more than his or her academic and professional life, and creating and empowering leaders for a transformed just world. I believe that this institution is ideal for me to learn and develop my character, and at the same time achieve my dreams.

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Income Statements

Part I

Revenue recognition is one of the crucial areas that concerns managers, auditors and regulators and other stakeholders. For managers, it is extremely important because selecting the wrong accounting method can, in some cases, result in litigation of shareholders and cause failure of stocks. In addition, revenue recognition is quite crucial because it determines when costs can be accounted. In accordance with the matching revenue, costs are to be recognized during the period in which their related revenues are accounted (Chlala and Landry 1). Therefore, revenue timing directly affects the period in which some of the costs are to be recognized. Consequently, this influences the income statement. Determination of when revenue is recorded can be defined using two accounting principles, namely accrual accounting and matching concept. Here, revenues are recognized during the time that is concerned with them being realized, which is when goods are transferred. However, this does not mean cash is received at this time.

Product expenses are confined to the direct inputs such as raw materials, labor, and manufacturing overheads amongst others that are used in the production of goods. These are the materials necessary for manufacturing or production of the goods a company trades. These products can be stored as inventory. In contrast, period costs are not associated with manufacturing of products. They are attributed to selling and administrative functions of the business, such as advertising and marketing. These expenses cannot be assigned to inventory or produced goods.

The matching concept, as it is related to accounting for revenues and inventory, states that expenses should be accounted for during the period when they are incurred. This is the same for revenues, which are accounted for when realized. This concept does not recognize when the cash is received. Whether cash is received late or early, expenses and revenues are recognized when transactions are made.

Part II

In this part, two companies, Apple and Samsung are analyzed using their 2012 and 2011 income statements. The link for Apple’s income statement is viewed from http://files.shareholder.com/downloads/AAPL/2853867852x0x444195/E7A8FE5F-8835-46AB-ACC2-6FA28DFB546D/Three_Yr_Financial_History.pdf while Samsung’s statement is viewed from http://www.samsung.com/us/aboutsamsung/investor_relations/financial_information/downloads/2013/SECAR2012_Eng_Final.pdf.

The two companies utilize different accounting conventions, where Apple employs the Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) which are used in the United States, while Samsung uses International financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) which are employed internationally in order to allow comparison of different companies in cross borders (Shamrock 23). This is identified from the statements provided by the companies. In GAAP, required documents include the balance sheet, income statement, statement of comprehensive income, changes in equity, cash flow as well as footnotes. On the other hand, the IFRS requires the balance sheet, income statement, changes in equity, cash flow, and footnotes. Apple provides the all the necessary documents under the GAAP while Samsung provides only those that are required by the IFRS.

	Apple		Samsung
	2012	2011	2012	2011
Revenue	156,508,000,000	108,249,000,000	187,754,283,000	154,048,895,000
Gross profit	68,662,000,000	46,818,000,000	69,509,553,000	49,348,008,000
Operating expenses	13,421,000,000	10,028,000,000	42,388,520,000	34,742,191,000
Income before taxation	55,763,000,000	34,205,000,000	27,929,248,000	16,050,712,000
Net income	41,733,000,000	25,922,000,000	22,262,426,000	12,845,713,000

Table 1. The Comparative Data for Apple and Samsung

From the table above, it is clear that both companies are doing better considering the revenues grew as well as the net profits. Although the expenses are increasing, it seems the revenue is increasing at a higher rate, which is contributing to the increase in net profit. The costs of sales are incrementing, as well as the revenue gross profit has increased, which indicates the ability of the company to sell more with fewer costs. Therefore, the increase in costs is able to achieve higher returns for the companies. This appears to be a good sign that the companies are healthy and bound to make profits in the future. However, the comparison of both shows that Apple is more profitable than Samsung is in terms of net income (Drake and Fabozzi 35).

It is very easy to collate the items of the two companies. Several trends can be discerned from the statements. One of them is that Apple has fewer costs compared to Samsung. This is identified from the fact that Apple had a higher net profit compared to Samsung that had the higher revenue than Apple did. The gross margin for Apple in 2012 is 43% while that of Samsung in the same period is 32%, which means their costs of sale are higher. The profit margins of the companies are as follows

Apple = 41,733,000,000 ÷ 156,508,000,000 × 100 = 27%

Samsung = 22,262,426,000 ÷187,754,283,000 × 100 = 12%,

which indicates that Apple is more profitable since it is able to retain 27% of its sales after all expenses are accounted for. Samsung, on the other hand, is able to retain only 12% after accounting for all the expenses.

Works Cited

Chlala, Nadi and Landry, Suzanne. Revenue Recognition: More Stringent Rules on the Horizon. iveybusinessjournal.com, December 2001. Web. December 21, 2013.

Drake P. Pamela and Fabozzi, J. Frank. Analysis of Financial Statements. New York, N.Y: John Wiley & Sons, 2012. Print.

Shamrock, E. Steven. IFRS and US GAAP: A Comprehensive Comparison. New York, N.Y: John Wiley & Sons, 2012. Print.

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Early Church Reforms

Introduction

Martin Luther was instrumental in leading early church reforms, which brought about the protestant movement. He had dedicated his life to serving God, and this enabled him to learn many things about the church. He received instruction when training as a priest, and he was able to use his position to learn as much as he could about the Bible. This made him realize the many ills of the church and he began speaking out against them. He faced tremendous opposition but his courage and bravery paid off. Many people got the chance to learn more about faith and God. The Catholic Church was forced to reexamine its ways, and it implemented some reforms. Because of Luther’s work, many people realized religious freedom and the church lost the stronghold it had on the people and the state.

Discussion

Luther was driven to change the church reforms because of the weaknesses and ills he saw. The church leadership failed in passing the right teachings to the people. Luther was concerned about certain theological issues regarding the matters of faith, scripture, and salvation. The church taught that people received salvation through good works and it failed to teach them about faith. People believed that they could pay for their salvation. The rich were able to do this readily and this encouraged them to sin. Luther challenged the authority of the pope and the Catholic Church. He believed in biblical scripture as the only authority for Christians. He did not believe that the people needed the church leaders to interpret the bible for them. He worked on translating the bible into a language that people could know and understand God’s word. Luther differed with the church because he believed that people could have a personal relationship with God. Accessing the Bible in their own language would enable people to know more about God. He disagreed with the idea that people needed the intercession of the saints, the Virgin Mary, priests, and the pope.

The religious beliefs and practices of the Protestants differed from those of the Roman Catholics. Luther and his followers also disagreed with the church tradition and practice of celibacy, which was required of all priests. They believed in the importance of marriage and families. The Protestants and the Roman Catholics differed in their approach to wealth and money. While the church encouraged the people to purchase indulgence so that the money could assist those who were sick and poor, it failed to practice its teachings. Instead, the church promoted a life of extravagance. This was evident in its efforts to rebuild St. Peter’s Basilica and in its purchase of expensive religious art. The Protestants and the Roman Catholics differed in their use of religious idols. The Protestants believed that the use of religious images in the church was a form of idolatry.

The church had maintained a stronghold on the state and the leaders. It supported the leaders in many ways while at the same time trying to maintain its stronghold. The protestant movement divided the people. Some of the people were not sure, if they wanted to remain in the Roman Catholic faith or if they wanted to become Protestants. In many cases, the state determined the religion that the people would adopt. Those who dared differ with the church were prosecuted. The reformation changed the religious as well as the political and economic systems of European countries. Luther advocated for the concept of separation of church and state. Although he recognized the authority of the state, he did not believe that it had the power and ability to dictate spiritual matters. However, many state and church leaders were not willing to dismiss their age-old traditions. This led to decades of war in many countries, as the leaders tried to influence their people on matters of religion.

The church reformation and Luther’s efforts to bring the Bible to the people coincided with the Gutenberg era. The evolution of printing led to changes information accessibility. Many people got the chance to access different types of books. This increased their awareness and knowledge. They became open to greater ideas, which were facilitated by different authors. People could print information on different subjects that concerned them and not just religious issues. The church leaders and the monarchies could no longer dictate what the people knew. Because of increased awareness, people began challenging the way their country’s affairs were run and this led to protests and revolutions.

Conclusion

Martin Luther encouraged the singing of hymns in the church. He believed that music was a powerful form of praise and he composed different tunes. Although music was present in the early Catholic Church, it did not have the same influence that it does today. Luther encouraged the people to sing and to compose songs. Many talented musicians became instrumental in expanding music in the churches. They composed professional tunes, which expanded beyond the church boundaries. Music became an important part of culture in the society because of this. Art was still an important aspect of the society. Despite the revolution, some people maintained images, most of which were religious in nature. Luther was not as keen on destroying religious images, as were some of the Protestants. In the early church, many leaders used images as they helped those who were not educated to worship. Although they were mostly the idea of Roman Catholics, many people in the society were willing to acquire art pieces if they could afford them. Art was a luxury item and a preserve for the rich, and it largely influenced the European culture.

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Organizational Behavior

Part 1

Psychological contracts are an effective technique of attaining the benefits of modifying the procedures in different departments of a commercial organization (Middleton, 2002). As an employee in a renowned corporation in the fashion industry, I have experienced the essence of this agreement, in addition to realizing the factors that may affect its effectiveness in the execution of official duties at a personal, departmental, and organizational level. The main objective of this contract is to strengthen my relationship with the employer, in addition to augmenting the effectiveness of embracing modified techniques that are in accordance with the core values and principles of the company (Schermerhorn, Osborn & Hunt, 2000). Accordingly, my psychological contract is healthy and is in line with my expectations regarding the tangible and intangible benefits obtained from the organization.

For example, the management of this commercial organization offers several promotion opportunities aimed at motivating the labor force to improve its performance. The criterion used to promote various members of staff is transparent and exemplifies equality. Each candidate has to undergo a comprehensive scrutiny conducted by an independent team constituting of several professionals from various departments (Miner, 2007). Additionally, the salary packages offered by the company are reasonable and are an effective motivation approach that has enabled the human resources in different sub sectors of the company to increase their performance while strengthening their relationship with the managerial personnel. These monetary and non-financial benefits have facilitated a healthy psychological contract that has promoted the teamwork spirit in the organization (Neely, 2002).

Additionally, the managerial team of this corporation constantly recognizes the efforts of human resources who exemplify exemplary performance in the execution of their official duties. For instance, there is a ceremony organized every year with the main intent of recognizing employees who have significantly contributed to the advancement of the company in terms of procedural expansion and increase of the returns (Robbins, 2005). This influential factor has resulted in a healthy psychological contract. Furthermore, the administration appreciates the essence of training its employees in order to concur with the transformations present in the modern business environment. This has enhanced the attainment of a healthy psychological contract with a professional and effective relationship with my employer. For instance, during my recruitment, I underwent an inclusive training program that not only enabled me to execute my official responsibilities effectively but also strengthened my relationship with other employees and the employer.

Additionally, the resources available at the commercial organization are ample, an aspect that has resulted in effective execution of the delegated duties. For example, the management focuses on developing all facets of existence of their employees (Golembiewski, 2001). In addition to motivating the labor force to increase their productivity in the organization setting, the administration has established a peculiar subdivision that offers psychological help to employees suffering from various forms of trauma. This has been efficient in tackling various problems experienced by the employees in the family setting and other societal environments. The provision of these resources, in addition to the support offered by the managerial teams in all departments of this business institution, has also been useful in improving the health of my psychological contract. This is because of the strong relationship with the supervisors of this commercial organization.

Part 2

The Fashion World is a business organization in the fashion industry. It manufactures garments that satisfy the needs of a wide range of customers in terms of age, gender, and cultural backgrounds. It has a market share of 3.2 % with its products being accessible in various international market segments. Two years ago, the company experienced significant managerial transformations with the main intent being to increase the productivity and market share of the company, in addition to attaining customer satisfaction and operational expansion. For example, the managerial team governing the proceedings of the company has appointed a new chief executive officer and several departmental supervisors. These adjustments have resulted in an increase of returns with the market share increasing by 1 % over the past year. Moreover, the corporation has enhanced its operations in additional segments of the international market.

As an employee of the company, I have identified certain distinct behaviors exhibited by the human resources in the organization. To start with, teamwork is an aspect promoted by the human resource docket with the labor force in all sub sectors showing significant dedication to improving their performance within the formulated work groups (Napier & Gershenfeld, 2004). For instance, in the sales and marketing sub sector, a number of employees with expertise in various components of commercial activities are responsible for formulating strategic plans aimed at directing such deeds as product promotion, identification of customers’ needs, and evaluation of available niche markets. Furthermore, integrity is an organization behavior exemplified in all departments of the commercial organization. Based on the core values and ethical principles emphasized in the institution, this behavior has facilitated increased productivity at a personal, departmental, and organizational level.

These organizational behaviors relate to several theories and concepts that describe personal traits, as well as the impact of values promoted by the management of an organization. To start with, the teamwork spirit exhibited in various subdivisions of this commercial institution is in accordance with motivational suppositions regarding the needs of the employees and the ability to satisfy these desires through an inclusive theoretical framework. For instance, the Maslow’s hierarchy of needs is a hypothesis that attempts to demystify the various effects of motivation from a personal perspective (DuBrin, 2002). At the base of the foundation are physiological needs, which include the attainment of basic elements of existence such as food, shelter, and clothes. This explains the efforts of the human resources who increase their productivity at the workplace in order to enhance their financial capabilities. Increased income improves the living standards of the workers and their dependants.

Other components of this theory include self-actualization and esteem. The esteem level involves the appreciation of one’s accomplishments and respect for other people. Likewise, self-actualization involves morality, and the ability to solve problems at the workplace effectively. These principles are in accordance to the organizational behaviors in Fashion World. The management of the organization recognizes that teamwork and promotion of ethical values such as integrity are essential in increasing the productivity of the labor force, in addition to strengthening the relationship between the administration and the human resources (Vibert, 2004). Another applicable supposition is the equity theory. This hypothesis indicates that fair treatment of employees in a commercial organization is an efficient technique of motivating them to improve their performance. This concurs with the principles of a healthy psychological contract. For instance, in this company, the management treats its employees equally in order to strengthen the relationship with the human resources (Osland, Kolb & Rubin, 2001).

The use of these motivational approaches followed a reduction in the company’s returns and organizational productivity in this commercial institution two years ago. Major departments such as the production, sales, and marketing subsectors recorded reduced profits with individual performance declining significantly. This led to various transformations involving the management of the company, in addition to formulating and executing practical plans aimed at increasing the productivity in all subdivisions. As indicated in the motivational theories and concepts, the administration focused on stimulating the labor force in order to attain the set objectives (Glykas, 2013). For instance, based on the components of the equity supposition, fair treatment of the employees has created an appropriate environment where the workforce executes its official duties diligently. For this reason, it is evident that the management of this business institution undertook appropriate measures to handle this situation.

Through these theories regarding organizational behavior, I comprehend that motivating the human resources was the most appropriate and feasible approach of handling the reduced productivity in different departments of the company. For example, in accordance with Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, the management of this company realized that identifying and ranking the needs of the employees would be useful in generating and implementing measures that will solve the problem effectively (Mount & Reiter, 2002). For instance, based on the elements within the physiological needs, employees increase their efforts in undertaking official duties in order to meet these basic needs of existence. Additionally, according to the constituents of the equity supposition, equality in the workplace encourages the human resources to improve their performance.

 

References

DuBrin, A. J. (2002). Fundamentals of organizational behavior. Australia: South-Western Thomson Learning.

Glykas, M. (2013). Business process management: Theory and applications. Berlin: Springer.

Golembiewski, R. T. (2001). Handbook of organizational behavior. New York: Marcel Dekker.

Middleton, J. (2002). Organizational behavior. Oxford, U.K: Capstone Pub.

Miner, J. B. (2007). Organizational behavior 4. Armonk, N.Y: M.E. Sharpe.

Mount, K. R., & Reiter, S. (2002). Computation and complexity in economic behavior and organization. Cambridge: CambridgeUniversity Press.

Napier, R., & Gershenfeld, M. K. (2004). Groups: Theory and experience. Boston: Houghton Mifflin.

Neely, A. D. (2002). Business performance measurement: Theory and practice. Cambridge: CambridgeUniversity Press.

Osland, J., Kolb, D. A., & Rubin, I. M. (2001). Organizational behavior: An experiential approach. UpperSaddleRiver, N.J: Prentice Hall.

Robbins, S. P. (2005). Essentials of organizational behavior. UpperSaddleRiver, N.J: Pearson/Prentice Hall.

Schermerhorn, J. R., Osborn, R., & Hunt, J. G. (2000). Organizational behavior. New York: Wiley.

Vibert, C. (2004). Theories of macro organizational behavior: A handbook of ideas and explanations. Armonk, N.Y: M.E. Sharpe.

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End Year Performance Review

The end year performance review is an exercise conducted by the human resource department in order to evaluate the professional development of Petrochemical Company employees. Over the last one year, I have performed my duties effectively and efficiently. As the manager of the electrical section, I have been reporting to the senior manager of the maintenance department. Conversely, I have fifteen employees working under my section. In addition to the supervision, I am also tasked with several other duties such as mechanical maintenance, and developing and implementing quality assurance systems to evaluate and monitor the performances of individual employees and that of the entire electrical section. While performing these duties, I was able to realize my strengths and weaknesses.

Strengths

In regards to my strengths, I was able to identify three principal behavioral traits that had a substantial impact on my performance. Firstly, I valued teamwork by all employees within my section. Personally, as a team player, I was actively involved in conducting joint activities with my subordinate employees. I realized that through teamwork, I was able to socialize with my employees on a personal basis. Not only did this strengthen the bond within the electrical section, but it also enabled me to identify the strengths and weaknesses of all my employees (The Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service, n.d.). The teamwork in my section encouraged employees to prioritize departmental success over their individual achievements. It also helped in improving efficiency and personal development because I was able to learn from other employees and give advice to other team members during brainstorming exercises (The Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service, n.d.).

Secondly, I considered myself as a good motivator and dispute handler. During the year, there were several challenges that were encountered by the electrical section. There were instances whereby conflicts among staff members led to feuds, which had a direct impact on the section’s performance. Moreover, I witnessed conflicts between individual goals and departmental objectives. These three events had negative impacts on the performances on my employees. Through mediation and motivation, I was able to help all employees to overcome the obstacles that were hindrances to overall performance. Thirdly, I was able to absorb human emotions such as anger and frustration. In some instances, attaining efficiency was exceedingly difficult. Furthermore, there were days when we had to meet exceedingly short timelines in order to maintain efficiency. Moreover, there were occurrences when some employees failed to follow instructions that were straightforward. Through emotional control, I was able to continue with normal operations despite my psychological problems.

Development Needs

Despite these successes, I faced several challenges that can be eliminated through certain strategies. The greatest challenge was a lack of necessary mechanical skill required to perform specific operations. In most instances, I had to seek advice from my senior manager or other lower level managers. I have identified two action plans that will improve my managerial skills. The first action plan is enrolling for a Masters in Electrical and Electronics. The second action plan is to identify a mentor within the company who shall be particularly instrumental in providing me with the necessary support required to solve problems, navigate the organizational culture and advance my career (Abbajay, n.d.). This will significantly improve my theoretical and practical skills. In turn, I will be in a better position to provide quality services to my section and the entire company.

 

References

Abbajay, M. (n.d.). The Working Life: The Importance of Workplace Mentors. Washington, DC: Careerstone Group.

The Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service. (n.d.). Teamwork: Success through People.London: The Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service

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Increase of the Market Share

Porter’s Generic Strategies

Porter’s generic strategies encompass various techniques that assist commercial organizations in acquiring a competitive advantage over their opponents in the business environment. These approaches include cost leadership, differentiation, and the focus strategy. Based on an evaluation of Guajilote Cooperativo Forestal located in Honduras, these business mechanisms are effective in increasing the market share of a corporation. For instance, in terms of the cost leadership strategies, reduction of the operational costs in this company will be useful in increasing its returns. Additionally, the management of Guajilote should reduce the prices of the products by providing various quantities to customers in order to satisfy the needs of the targeted market segment, in addition to increasing the market share of the corporation. Use of other techniques such as competent logistics components and acquisition of significant capital to execute chief proceedings within the company will also provide a low cost foundation that is in accordance with the elements of the cost leadership strategy.

Additionally, in order to attain a competitive advantage over other participants in the wood trade, Guajilote should consider components of the differentiation strategy. To start with, it is essential for the managerial team to conduct an all-inclusive research program aimed at identifying the needs of the targeted market segments as well as trends that may alter characteristics of the market. Additionally, this will be useful in identification of strategies to execute promotion activities effectively. Likewise, use of innovations in production, sales, and marketing departments will enable the provision of quality products and services to the market segments. These developments supervised by the management of Guajilote should encompass educational programs aimed at enlightening the general population about the benefits of the company’s commodities. The focus strategy is also a constituent of the Porter’s generic strategies useful in expanding the proceedings of Guajilote Company. This involves the identification of a niche market. For example, in wood-related trade, it is essential for the administration of Guajilote to shape a particular market segment based on its ability to satisfy the needs of customers within this category.

Sustainability of Resources and Capabilities

Guajilote is a company, which deals with the sale of various wood products. Accordingly, the corporation relies on the natural environment for its raw materials. For instance, one of its leading brands is the mahogany, which is a hardwood obtained from certain geological zones of the world. For this reason, acquiring consistency in the provision of these wood products to the niche market may be difficult due to the alteration of climatic conditions that influence the growth of the trees. Furthermore, the rate of growth of these natural resources is lower than the acquisition of the commodities through deforestation. Consequently, the management of this company ought to implement a strategic plan that promotes environmental conservation as a way of counteracting the deforestation actions used to obtain raw materials for its production department. Likewise, its capabilities to satisfy the needs of the targeted market segment are a crucial aspect that requires managerial expertise. The supervisors in different departments such as the production, sales, and marketing subdivisions should formulate and execute a practical strategic plan that enhances these capacities.

McKinsey Matrix

The McKinsey matrix encompasses quantifiable criteria regarding commercial attractiveness and effectiveness. In terms of industry attractiveness, various influential forces that affect the market operations are part of the matrix. In this case study, the growth rate and size of the targeted market segment are essential in increasing the returns of the corporation. For this reason, the management should select a niche market of reasonable size with a high growth rate with reference to its capacity to attain customer satisfaction. Moreover, identification of significant   macro-environmental factors through the PEST analysis scheme is essential in the recognition of business opportunities in the international setting. This provides increased proceeds and a competitive advantage to Guajilote. Accordingly, the market share of the company is bound to increase significantly.

With respect to the strength of the business unit, the administration of Guajilote should conduct detailed research activities in order to identify the current trends in the market as a technique of increasing its market share and competitive advantage. They should also expand the distribution channels with the main intent of enhancing the accessibility of their products by the targeted customers. Furthermore, increasing the production capacity of the corporation will be essential in augmenting its market share, competitive advantage, and overall proceeds. Likewise, since the strength of the company is quantifiable in terms of the impact of its proceedings in the selected market segment, the administrators of the firm should calculate their returns in relation to the operational expansion of similar corporations established in the region. Incorporation of these strategies will not only enable the administration of Guajilote to increase its competitive advantage over other participants in the market, but it will also augment the market share of the company. For this reason, formulating a practical strategic plan for this company should include numerous influential factors in the internal and external market environments.

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Week 7 Assignment 2 Submission

Information management is an inclusive discipline that encompasses various concepts. This subject matter involves the collection and organization of crucial data from different sources. Subsequently, the relevant parties distribute the repackaged information to several addressees depending on their influence in the operations of the company or the content of the conveyed message. This aspect of management in the business setting is a crucial element that affects other departments in a commercial enterprise. This is because the information collected and evaluated through techniques of information management relates to influential forces that may result in the expansion or collapse of a business institution. Owing to its benefits, commercial organizations have adopted various information management concepts as an approach of increasing their market share.

One of these concepts involves environmental management. Through the discipline of information management, a business institution can use its managerial functions to develop, execute, and supervise an all-inclusive environmental policy that governs the operations of the corporation. Through this concept, the environmental management system is a vital technological framework that has enabled various departments and organizations to supervise its environmental operations (Pick, 2005). Additionally, objectives related to this facet are achievable through this management concept. The employees in such organizations also acquire relevant information regarding the essence of increasing their environmental performance. This makes it easy to modify organizational proceedings through the trade assessment system. For example, use of efficient responses to address customer needs aid in monitoring the environmental programs in the institution.

Based on this argument, it is apparent that information systems and technologies are useful in attaining the set objectives in a commercial institution. This is because of the essence of these systems in managing the proceedings in various departments through the records of such activities as production, distribution, sales, and marketing. Commercial enterprises use various information systems to collect, evaluate, and store crucial data regarding the business operations in a corporation. For instance, in the human resource subdivision, the managerial team can use a relevant information system to monitor the performance of the employees. This is because of the records containing crucial information, which is a constituent of the information management system in the business setting (Blecker & Friedrich, 2007). Through this technological framework, absenteeism in the workplace reduces owing to the comprehensive records and the straightforward supervisory process.

Furthermore, the sales and distribution sub sectors utilize information management systems to monitor the progress of various projects. This is a vital technique that not only encourages the human resources to improve their performance at the individual, departmental, and organizational level but it also results in effective implementation of the formulated strategic plan. These programs also aid in monitoring the quantity of sales within a specific period. This is useful in identifying the strengths and opportunities that can aid in physical and procedural expansion of the corporation (Galliers & Leidner, 2003). Additionally, it is possible to recognize weaknesses and threats that may adversely affect the operations of the company. For this reason, it is difficult to conduct crucial proceedings in a commercial enterprise without incorporating several information management systems that facilitate the supervision of major projects in various departments.

In the modern world, there are various improvements in the information systems and technologies, which are vital in the effective execution of certain strategic plans in commercial organizations. Consequently, communication, collaboration, and partnership occur with minimal difficulties owing to the benefits of these advancements in the information and technological facets. To start with, the internet is a wide platform that facilitates the formulation and implementation of various plans and approaches. The automation of major processes within a commercial organization is useful in enhancing communication among the human resources and the customers (Lan, 2005). For instance, customers from all regions of the globe can access essential information regarding a company in addition to purchasing various products through this technological framework. Existing and potential business partners can also comprehend the operations within a commercial enterprise before signing the required accords. These managerial functions may occur without physical interactions.

Likewise, the advancements in this technological framework regarding information management systems have enhanced commercial transactions among individuals, organizations, and nationalized agencies. This is because of the possibility of applying for business tenders as well as executing other procurement proceedings from any geological region of the globe. For example, various government bureaus use e-procurement systems to advertise and offer tenders to companies or individuals. In addition, these technological systems facilitate monetary transactions from one bank account into another without considering geological boundaries as a hindrance to these trade activities (Chaffey & Wood, 2005). This is a major improvement since such transactions were impossible to conduct due to the lack of an effective system that suppresses such barriers as geological boundaries. Consequently, the costs involved in executing these trade activities are lower in terms of monetary expenditures, time, and labor. Accordingly, systems such as e-commerce have modified the international commercial environment through various frameworks within the discipline of information management.

 

References

Blecker, T., & Friedrich, G. (2007). Mass customization information systems in business. Hershey: Information Science Reference.

Chaffey, D., & Wood, S. (2005). Business information management: Improving performance using information systems. Harlow, England: Prentice Hall/Financial Times.

Galliers, R., & Leidner, D. E. (2003). Strategic information management: Challenges and strategies in managing information systems. Oxford: Butterworth-Heinemann.

Lan, Y. (2005). Global information society: Operating information systems in a dynamic global business environment. Hershey, PA: Idea Group Pub.

Pick, J. B. (2005). Geographic information systems in business. Hershey, PA: Idea Group Pub.

 

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Generalist and Specialist HR Functions

Steven Cesare and Thornton Coleen (1993) identify some differences between specialists and generalists in an organization setting. Specialists have more in-depth knowledge of an issue, as they focus on a specific discipline in their training. Thus, they are professionals who are more concerned with increasing their knowledge and developing their skills. They get much pride from the recognition they get from their peers who specialize in their area of interest. Conversely, generalists have wider scope of knowledge. They seek to cover many issues at once instead of focusing on a definite area of knowledge. They are more interested in their development within their organization as they seek to advance to various levels. Therefore, they tend to be more committed and loyal to their employers than they are to any professional body.

Bartram et al. (2013) note that specialists and generalists have different priorities. They aim for different results and this can sometimes lead to conflicts. While generalists are concerned with the improvement of productivity, which is an internal organizational concern, the specialists are focus on the external as well as the internal factors that will affect the performance of the company. Thus, for instance, they will take measures that will reduce the company’s legal liability, which might end up compromising its performance. Generalists and specialists differ in their sources of motivation and business operation. Specialists often handle a few projects at the same time, and they do so intensely. They depend on tangible information to enable them make decisions, and they have a high regard for independence when making decisions. On the other hand, generalists can handle many projects at the same time, and they require minimal information and evidence when making decisions.

Specialists are seen as more superior compared to the generalists. Cesare and Coleen (1993) highlight the importance of their professional development and skill acquisition. They posit that specialists are more valuable to the company as they enable it to retain its competitive advantage. Organizations spend a lot of money to recruit and orient specialists. This shows that employers think that that the specialists are valuable to the company. It is important for the companies to create an enabling environment for the specialists, as this will lead to their retention. The companies should provide flexible work schedules and they should give the specialists a chance to work independently and to make decisions that will lead to the progress of the company. They should have access to adequate office resources, as this will improve their performance. The ability to communicate with the level executives directly and the organizational support that the specialists receive for their advancement in education further point to their superiority. Many organizations are not in a position to provide such incentives to other employees and they reserve them for those specializing in different issues (Cesare & Coleen, 1993).

Persistent legalism in organizations has increased the role of specialists in human resource functions. Specialists have become more important as organizations continue facing many legal issues (Bartram et al., 2013). Some situations in human resource require the intervention of specialists. People working in some industries are mistreated in some ways by their employers and they do not have any channels of communication. Specialists know the kind of people to engage in dialog and action to change such situations. Generalists do not have adequate skills and expertise to handle and resolve legal matters. This factor places the specialists in a superior position compared to the generalists. However, Bartram et al. (2013) note that some situations have continued to strengthen the role of generalists. For instance, generalists are able to deal with some internal human resource situations, which do not necessarily require legal expertise. They can effect changes in the company that will reduce and discontinue practices such as bullying.

Cesare and Coleen (1993) seem to advocate for the employment of generalists as they consider them more flexible and less demanding to organizations. The generalists are loyal and committed to their companies, and their employers can have more confidence in them. They are willing to follow the rules and they recognize organizational bureaucracy, hence, they are less likely to make major changes in the company, which will change business operations and the work culture drastically. The authors point out to the increased need of the specialists to advance in their professional development by acquiring skills, which means that the organization has to accommodate their needs. Many organizations may not be able to do this, and this may hinder them from employing specialists.

Bartram et al. (2013) do not take any position and they do not seem to support generalists or specialists. They instead highlight the importance of both human resource functions to deal with emerging situations in the company. Although they recognize the importance and value of specialists in organizations, especially when dealing with legal issues, they are also quick to point out the changing role of the generalist in the company. They note that some trends in industrial relations are contradictory in the sense that they have changed the role and function of human resource personnel. The HR personnel are currently dealing with more diverse issues than they used to, and this has increased the significance of generalists in organizations.

References:

Bartram, T., Cooke, L. F., & Malcolm Rimmer Editors. (2013). Editors note: Specialists versus generalist managerial roles in HRM. Asia Pacific Journal of Human Resources, 51 (4), 389-391

Cesare, S. J., & Coleen, T. (1993). Human resource management and the specialist/generalist issue. Journal of Managerial Psychology, 8 (3), 31-43

 

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En 09-Meredith Case Study

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En 09-Meredith Case Study

Question 1

Primarily, information from Meredith’s intake form suggests that she might have somatization disorder. Primarily, this disorder involves a chronic condition that manifests physical symptoms that may affect multiple parts of the body. However, it is never possible to establish the physical cause of the symptoms. People suffering from this condition complain of physical distress, such as chronic pain, complications with the reproductive, nervous, and digestive system. Normally, these symptoms interfere with the relationships and work of the affected person.

Based on the findings established above, it would be advisable for the clinician to examine Meredith and attempt to identify some of the following symptoms. Meredith explains that she has been experiencing migraines and problems with her reproductive system (“serious cramps”). Furthermore, it is notable that Meredith preferred not to comment on her sexual history. The clinician in this case should attempt to get information from the patient regarding her sexual history. Normally, somatization disorder leads to an inhibited desire to engage in sexual activity (Smith, Monson, & Ray, 2006). It is most likely that Meredith will admit, that she has a reduced desire to engage in sexual activity and should be diagnosed with somatization disorder. Data from Meredith’s intake form indicates problems with her family relationships and work. All these symptoms show that she is suffering from somatization disorder.

Question 2 

Meredith has openly admitted that she indulges in alcohol consumption. Therefore, one question in her history should be enquired, whether Meredith began to consume alcohol prior to or after she began manifesting the symptoms. An answer to this question will establish whether alcohol is a cause or an effect of the disorder.

Question 3

It is crucial to understand that somatization disorders are more prevalent among people, who abuse alcohol and drugs. However, alcohol and drugs may also be the cause and effect factors. This implies that alcohol may be the cause of Meredith’s condition or may have resulted from it. Therefore, the clinician on enquiring Meredith’s alcohol use would help to establish whether the alcohol is a cause or an effect of the drug.

Question 4

Information on Meredith’s eating and sleeping habits, as well as stress, would indeed prove relevant to the clinician. These are among the factors that influence the health of a patient suffering from somatization disorders. Recovering from this disorder requires the patient to keep to a good diet, have enough time to sleep, and avoid stress (Smith, Monson, & Ray, 2006). However, failure to eat properly, sleep and keep from stress will only aggravate the situation by making the condition even worse. For example, stress is known to cause back pain, tiredness, chest pain and more. These are all symptoms of somatization disorder. Therefore, information on Meredith’s eating, sleeping habits and stress would prove relevant to the clinician.

Question 5

The clinician in this scenario would be well advised to explore the conditions at Meredith’s home and workplace. The fact that Meredith’s father is an alcoholic may have a straight connection with the patient’s indulgence into the habit. Furthermore, her relations with the rest members of the family and her colleagues also play an important role in her current psychological state. Being loaded with lots of demands at home and work can lead to stress.

Question 6

If Meredith had reported that her friends described her as crazy, unable to pay attention, hyperactive, and talking too fast, I would have been prompted to explore the diagnosis of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Syndrome (ADHD). These reference qualities are all common symptoms of a patient suffering from ADHD (Rufo-Campos, 2005).

Question 7

Co-occurring disorder implies a condition where a person’s lifestyle is affected by his or her dependence on chemicals and psychiatric or emotional illness. On the other hand, a single diagnosis occurs when the patient’s symptoms or current state only point out one particular illness or disorder. Information on Meredith’s current condition states that she is dependent on alcohol, especially when she wants to sleep. Her other symptoms suggest that she is suffering from somatization disorder. Upon analyzing these two factors, the clinician should be able to conclude that Meredith is suffering from a co-occurring disorder.

Question 8

If Meredith is not using pronouns, she is exhibiting signs of slurred speech. Problems with speech are usually identified with this disease. The clinician would be well advised to perform tests with a view certifying the above hypothesis. Schizophrenia is usually related with substance abuse. Since Meredith has an alcohol problem, it is most likely that she would be suffering from the condition of alcoholic intoxication as well. Substance abuse is extremely dangerous, and Meredith should be counseled so that the root of her problem is dealt with appropriately. The clinician should encourage her to seek for help and diagnose her, as early as possible, to higher the chances for full recovery.

Furthermore, the clinician should explore the history and current state of Meredith’s family. In other words, the clinician should establish whether the environment in the patient’s home is suitable for good relations and connection with the family. Meredith complains that she is not comfortable with the idea about her family, found out by Andy. This nervousness could be generated by a lack of connection with the family members.

Reference

Rufo-Campos, M. (2005). Attention deficit hyperactivity syndrome. Neurología : Publicación Oficial De La Sociedad Española De Neurología, 20, 4, 199-200.

Smith, G. R., Monson, R. A., & Ray, D. C. (2006). Psychiatric consultation in somatization disorder: A randomized controlled study. The New England Journal of Medicine, 314, 22, 1407-1413.

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