Learning model 5 Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Learning model 5 - Assignment Example Nearly all moves made by the managers will have political implications. Nearly all barriers to effective to effective performance of agency started out as reforms hence it is important for managers to consider this political history. The political cycles, especially the calendar of election influence organizational changes. Behn asserts that public managers seeking change in their organizations make progress often only through what is called groping along. This is because of political constraints or because of other considerations (pp. 413). Behn argues that, â€Å"change in public organizations often is not so much a matter of rational planning in which a manager considers all courses f action and then settles on a strategy that guides his or her future actions. In this respect, Aristigueta et al. (2012, pp. 413) says that â€Å"instead, a good manager has a very good sense of his objectives but lacks a precise idea of realizing them.† Light carried out a study in twenty six public and nonprofit organizations in which organization had become a way of life. According to the findings of Light, these organizations followed many of the same prescriptions of for organizational change including paying attention to political change (Aristigueta et al., 2012, pp. 413).The recommendations given by Light for creating the freedom to imagine were democratize which required the sifting from centralized rule to a more participatory style, prime organizations among others. Denhardt and Denhardt found that many in public organizations are risk averse. These public organizations like their business organizations counterparts are place a high value on not â€Å"rocking the boat† (Aristigueta et al., 2012, pp. 413). The mangers who are interested in encouraging innovation must take special measures to encourage the employees to value change and even to take risks. Denhardt and Denhardt say that both change and innovations should be valued in order to realize succe ss (Aristigueta et al., 2012, pp. 414). â€Å"Borins reviewed a sample of semifinalists’ applications for the Ford Foundations-Kennedy School of Government state and local government innovation awards. According to the findings of Borins, a large portion of the innovation that had occurred was due to the initiation by public servants at the middle management level or on the front line. It is on this basis that Aristigueta et al. (2012, pp. 414) claim that â€Å"Borins argued that as the public organizations devolved authority and responsibility through the organization, they are likely to experience even more innovation.† Borins wrote, â€Å"Politicians initiate in times of crisis, agency head when they take over the reins or in an organizational change context and middle-level and frontline public servants develop innovative responses as needed to solve internal problems or take advantage of opportunities† (Aristigueta et al., 2012, pp. 414). 2. Describe four key insights for working with the media? Under what condition/situation is it most useful to use (a) television, (b) print, (c) on-line, (d) radio, and (e) press conferences? A significant and increasing part of success of any particular public organization will depend on the effectiveness of its members in working with others. They include the citizens, other public agencies, the governing body, private and nonprofit groups and associations and the media

Amusment Park Job Essay Example for Free

Amusment Park Job Essay Introduction A ride host has given you the all clear, the train begins to a ascend slowly up the mammoth 200ft steel mountain, your heart begins to race, you struggle to catch a breath as you are aware of the many twists and turns that are presumed to follow as you creep your way over the ominous peak. Life in many ways can be alluded to the adrenaline rush of racing on a roller-coaster. To experience that rush on a daily basis and you become the driving force behind what makes these chaotic machines of terror and excitement operate with such grace and cohesion would be much more than a career. The role of park manager can be a very difficult and stressful position, but the daily compensation is much more that can be put in a bank account. I will be discussing the job description, requirements, work conditions and prospects of this position. Job Description A theme park manager works in a very dynamic environment and this job requires a vast assortment of responsibilities and tasks that are mainly influenced by the size of the park you are managing. Managing a smaller park, such as Coney Island, would entail much less complexity in everyday operations in comparison to a larger park, such as Cedar Point, but would be just as rewarding and present its own challenges. Although vast and varying based on a particular parks values and needs, Brad Thomas director of operations at Silver Dollar City Branson MI states the position description as â€Å"Directors of Operations manage the overall operations of the theme park. He or she must do extensive planning and budgeting. He or she makes sure that the plans are in place, so the attraction or park does not make any promises it cannot keep. He or she also must see that all decisions made are within the park’s mission, vision, and values. Directors of Operations exert authority over every activity taking place in the attraction or theme park. † Each park has varying degrees of accountability delegated to the operations manager, but the basic function doesn’t vary from park to park. Job Requirements In this position, field experience is just as important as the educational requirements. Most parks look for someone that has worked their way up within a park and has first-hand experience with the park and its daily functions that includes everything from a ride host to admissions. The ideal candidate would be someone who has grown and developed their experience and education at the park they are seeking to manage. A job listing for a park management position at Coney Island requested the following requirements for their applicants: †¢A minimum of 5 years of experience in a management role within an amusement park or entertainment facility. †¢Post-secondary education in business, recreation, or hospitality management. †¢Excellent communication, interpersonal, and customer service skills along with strong team building and motivating abilities. †¢A firm grasp of financial business principles, safety compliance, time-management, and computer skills. †¢Ability to work long hours-weekends/nights are required. This is a position that is not usually given to someone just out of college. You must earn this position by working your way to the top. Work Conditions Work conditions depend on the location and whether or not the park is seasonal. Most parks operate from May through October, and can experience everything from scorching heat during the summer to freezing fall temperatures. This is prevalent to the position of park manager because most of the day is spent not in the office but throughout the park monitoring daily operations. They must be on site to ensure that the park is functioning properly and guest satisfaction is optimal. Rain or shine a park manager must monitor the parks activities and maintain guest satisfaction at all times. Salary Range Once again the details of the position vary greatly upon the size of the park and what that specific park delegates to the park manager. Brad Thomas stated that â€Å"An average salary range for a Director of Operations is from $21,900 to $86,500. The smaller properties have the lower salary, while the larger and more prestigious properties have the larger salaries. † This may not seem like a fortune to most but the people in these positions have a true passion for their respective parks. Job Prospects There are currently 285 operating parks with at least one roller coaster according to rollercoaster database (rcdb. com). Considering that new parks are rarely established and with most parks only having one park manager, this leads to the position of park manager being a very competitive career path. Although with limited opportunities, those who have a passion for this industry have the ability to make themselves stand out and increase their chances for success in seeking management employment. Conclusion In conclusion, the prospects of gaining this position may not seem obtainable due to the limited number of park managers. However, if you have the passion, education and skill requirements, then you have the potential of progressing your way to a park manager. Those who have received and hold this job title have spent countless years dedicating their lives and efforts to this industry. They have truly found an exceptional experience to call a career. The monetary benefits are overshadowed by the joy they bring to thousands of guests that visit their park on a yearly basis. Works Sited Amusement Park Search Results. Rollercoaster Database. N. p. , n. d. Web. 10 Feb. 2013. Similar Jobs Recommended For You. Similar Jobs Recommended For You. N. p. , 16 Jan. 2013. Web. 09 Feb. 2013. Theme Park Manager: Job Description. Prospects. ac. uk. N. p. , 1 Sept. 2011. Web. 10 Feb. 2013. Thomas, Brad. Director of Operations Attraction/Theme Park. Entertainment Management. N. p. , 01 Nov. 2000. Web. 09 Feb. 2013.

Macro and Micro Environment Trends in the Gaming Industry

Macro and Micro Environment Trends in the Gaming Industry Sony, a highly-technologically driven multinational Japanese corporation, is amongst the leading companies in producing and selling electronics worldwide. Its quality electronic products associated with laptops, mobiles, cameras, video game consoles have enabled them to achieve a significant advantage over its competitors in the aggressively ever-changing technological market. Play Station, Sonys best invention, is one of its prominent electronic devices which have taken Sony to new heights due to its mass consumption and fierce consumer loyalty. As a result, the success of the new Sony Play Station 3 prompted us to focus on how it tends to survive in the market over the next few years. (2011-2013). The current and future environmental scan of Sony Play Station 3 will help us identify several upcoming challenges the cooperation must address in order to maintain their success. Lastly, the geographic area we are focusing on is the impact of Play Station 3 in UAE and how the market for gamers in the Middle East continues to grow. The structure of this report will begin with the designing of the product market structure along with the relevant market where Sony Play Station 3 and its competitors are serving its customers. In addition, we will analyze the external and internal environmental trends that can affect the continuity of the brand. Also, we will focus on other important issues which are likely to arise in the future and shift the focus of segmentation, primary and selective demand, SWOT and competitive analysis. Unquestionably, the 7th generation video game consoles like Play station 3 with a cult following has not only provided Sony with tremendous economic benefits but also an image of being a company that continuous to utilize the improving technology and create such astonishing machines which are being used worldwide. The non-portable and the portable gaming industry are dominated by fierce competitors who adapt successful marketing strategies to divert focus of potential customers from one boundary to another. The relevant market, for non-portable game consoles, in which Sony Play station 3 strives to operate with continuous success along with other recognizable brands offer game console devices with similar features and experiences. We tend to focus on the impact of Sony Play station 3 in the present and the future non-portable gaming console relevant market of United Arab Emirates, next three years (2011-2013), and what strategies it will have to undertake in order to achieve sustaina bility and ensure long-term survival. Baldwin (2010) reports, Tim Stokes, Sales and Marketing Director for PlayStation Division, estimated that gaming in the Middle East is worth up to $1 billion or two per cent of the global market of $45 billion in total international sales. Therefore, it is interesting to see know the Middle East markets contribution to the success of gaming devices and it prompted us to focus on this underrated UAE market that continuous to be a hot prospect in this gaming field. Furthermore, identifying the relevant market for Sony Play Station 3 considers two important factors which are degree of substitutability and managerial perspective will be applied to understand the product market structure. As showcased earlier, our product market structure simplifies the understanding of which product category Play Station 3 and its competitors fall. Even though this market has many other competitors; however, it is being dominated by few due to their fierce mass loyalty. In other words, non-portable game console is a consolidated industry with few dominant market leaders with large market shares and worldwide presence. The first layer which deals with the customer needs mainly is the machines that can support video games. These machines, which are video game supporting devices, are applicable for all types of video games ranging from Arcade to family oriented games. It is then broken down into the second important layer, product class, which is the video gaming console and the personal computer devices where we experience the interactive games. The impact of the improving technology in both personal computers and video game console devices has highly increased the degree of substitutability between the two. This degree of substitutability between PCs and portable/non-portable game consoles in the UAE market is currently very high as both devices are being upgraded to provide similar graphical experiences. In short, the PCs are also doing a very successful job in competing with the 7th generation video game consoles and in taking some of the customers who enjoy playing games suitable with a keyboard and more importantly the mouse. Understanding the degree of substitutability between the game consoles and PC devices is present due to several factors. These factors can range from the perceived benefits, in terms of convenience and price, to the fea tures the superior device has to offer that is compatible with the both games and customers requirements. Moreover, in the third layer, product form, the video game consoles are then separated on the basis of being portable (handheld) and non-portable devices. The degree of substitutability is not likely to be present between the two at current stage in UAE since handheld devices to not provide the same thrilling experience as compared to a game being played on a bigger screen. Also, the portable game console devices with two main devices, PSP and Nintendo 3DS, tend to target a different type of target market which are mainly children. For a hardcore gamer, a big screen experience and competing via social networking is an essential tool which can only be excitingly through the non-portable gaming consoles. However, in the later stage of the report, we will emphasize on the importance of size being now considered as a huge factor in the decision making process and how the movement towards portable video game console devices is on an incline. In short, we will emphasize more on the switchi ng between the boundaries of the relevant market in the implications phase to justify the reasoning of the increased degree of substitutability between the non-portable and portable devices in the coming years. Lastly, Sony Play Station 3 along with its current competitors comes in the last layer, brand specification, under the Sony category that dominates the non-portable game consoles in the relevant market. As mentioned earlier, our report is limited down to the dominance of non-portable gaming devices, and the focus being PS3, and their implications in the coming years. This report will give a detailed analysis of how Sony PS3 can be chosen based on various rational and emotional aspects. Determining the degree of substitutability between the 7th generation gaming consoles that are Sony Play station 3 and X-box 360 is very challenging due to the amazing features they both offer and hence making it difficult for buyers to recognize which one is better. Moreover, this degree of substitutability is supported with the concepts of Primary and more importantly Secondary Demand that aids in the decision making of current and future customers in which console to choose. In addition, the micro a nd macro environmental trends were carefully taken into account to ensure what steps has already been taken to establish a competitive advantage; moreover, the steps Sony Play station 3 will have to consider over the next years in order to stay competitive in its relevant market. In short, our managerial focus is analyzing the successful non-portable devices which belong to these cult brands that are Sony Play Station, Microsoft X-Box and Nintendo. In addition, the managerial focus is highly dependent on the future market of UAE and how Sony Play Station 3 should utilize this market to its maximum potential and understand its current and potential competitors position in the coming years. Furthermore, the relevant market with respect to the non-portable game console devices in which Play Station 3, X-box 360 and Nintendo Wii compete may be saturated with these prominent leaders; however, our research primarily focuses on Play Station 3 and we will try to place its position in the relevant market in the current and next two years. Macro environment Political legal Copyright laws Counterfeit or copied video games and software are prohibited in several countries including the UAE. Different authorities in the UAE are collaborating with one another, foreign governments and with organizations such as Microsoft to capture counterfeit goods of different kinds including video games and software (Oct 19, 2010, Dubai Customs foilsà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦). The customs inspectors take specialized courses in combating commercial fraud which enables them to uncover any attempts to threaten the national security of the UAE (Oct 19, 2010, Dubai Customs foilsà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦). According to the IPR -Intellectual Property Rights- department at Dubai customs there were three seizures of counterfeited CDs in 2010 compared to five seizures in 2009 (Oct 19, 2010, Dubai Customs foilsà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦). In the years to come these laws are going to be more effective due to advances in technologies and the more experienced customs staff and inspectors. Economical The GDP growth in 2009 was 2.7% compared to 2.6 % in 2010 (Central Intelligence Agency, (2011)). The economy is expected to rebound slowly and the challenges faced include dependence on oil, expatriates and greater inflation, the inflation rate in 2010 was 2.2% (Central Intelligence Agency, (2011)). In the next few years the UAE is planning to increase diversification and improve education and private sector employment for the UAE nationals (Central Intelligence Agency, (2011)). The economic crisis had a negative effect on income which is considered to be a main determinant when buying a game console since the price of the consoles can be high. The economic crisis is expected to be reduced in the next few years, the GDP increased from 2009 to 2010, and following that income may rise and more customers become able to purchase game consoles. Sociocultural Statistics from the ESA -Entertainment Software Association- show that in the United States 25% of game players are less than 18 years old, 49% in the age group 18 49 and 26% 50 and older ((2010). Essential Facts aboutà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦). Also, 64% of the gamers play video games with other persons which is a higher number than in 2008 and 2009 ((2010). Essential Facts aboutà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦). Parents participate with their children in playing video games as 48% play video games with their children ((2010). Essential Facts aboutà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦). The reason for this participation includes fun for the whole family and socializing with the children ((2010). Essential Facts aboutà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦). We can relate these statistics to the demographics in the UAE as 78.7% of the population is in the age group 15 64. The percentage of video gamers differs of course but in the UAE most of the gamers will probably fall in the age group 15 30.Video games and video game consoles in particular are beco ming more users friendly and as in the Nintendo Wii there are games that target the whole family and children. In the future more video games and technologies like the ones that exist in the Nintendo Wii are going to be introduced. These video games will appeal to a wide range of demographics of both genders. Technological Augmented reality Augmented reality is a new technology that is very popular today and a technology that is still being developed (Wen, H., Jan 26, 2010). In video game consoles augmented reality can be seen in the play station eye toy where images from the real world such as the user and display it on a computer screen (Wen, H., Jan 26, 2010). Then the user is able to interact with virtual objects on the screen through software (Wen, H., Jan 26, 2010). The annual sales of augmented reality are expected to rise from approximately 1 million in 2209 to 732 million in 2014 (Wen, H., Jan 26, 2010). The technology still faces several limitations but developers and researchers are improving and developing the technology (Wen, H., Jan 26, 2010). The researchers are trying to integrate real world images with graphics instead of just displaying them on a computer screen ((n.d.), How Augmented Reality Will Work). This technology will create a feeling of the five senses and separate the users from computer gener ated graphics ((n.d.), How Augmented Reality Will Work). Motion sensing game controllers The Nintendo Wii was introduced with a motion sensor called the Wiimote which can track movement and positions (Sung, K., Feb 2011). The technology was simple and proved that well engineered technologies with appealing games can be very profitable (Sung, K., Feb 2011). The Nintendo Wii was cheaper than Xbox and PS3 and it was considered a success (Sung, K., Feb 2011). Following this success Nintendo introduced the Wii Motion Plus which is an attachment to the Wiimote that improves accuracy and response time (Sung, K., Feb 2011). Sony reacted to this success by releasing the Playstation Move which is a motion controller for the PS3. Sonys motion controller was more accurate than Nintendos controller and acquired reputation quickly (Sung, K., Feb 2011). After that the Xbox released its Xbox Kinect system in 2010 which contains state of the art technologies (Sung, K., Feb 2011). The system is a USB accessory for the existing Xbox 360 instead of being a whole new game console (Sung, K., Feb 2011). This shows that video game consoles manufacturers are moving towards technologies and devices based on human computer interface (Sung, K., Feb 2011). The next generation of video game consoles Video game consoles can be categorized in seven generations depending on the technologies introduced with each console. PS3, Xbox 360 and Nintedo Wii are considered to be in the seventh generation (Miller, M., Apr 1, 2005). The next generation is predicted to be more powerful with increased graphical power which will increase the costs of making games for the consoles (Morris, C., 12 Jun 2009). The costs are expected to rise from 20 30 million to 60 million per game (Morris, C., 12 Jun 2009). The higher development costs of video games raise the cost of video game consoles manufacturing (Morris, C., 12 Jun 2009). Onlive is a company that is attempting to stream video games directly to the computer or TV through the users internet connection at home (Morris, C., 12 Jun 2009). The technology is early but promising and can increase the life cycle of the current game consoles (Morris, C., 12 Jun 2009). However, this technology can be present in the next generation consoles. The next gen eration is expected to arrive in 2011 or 2012 as mentioned by Yves Guillemont the CEO of Ubisoft -video game developer- (Yam , M., January 23, 2009). Micro environment Consumer Behavior As mentioned earlier, Sonys target market segment, of the Play Station 3, is gamers, particularly teens or adolescents; Teens and young adults are the main contributors to the high sales revenue being generated by the Sony Corporation through the gaming console. A common purchasing ideology in the UAE, shared by most of its citizens, is having or owning the latest technology or releases of electronic equipment; this might have been an influencing factor in Sonys decision of having significant stock inventory be made available to local retailers, safeguarding against shortages that have frustrated retailers based in launch markets such as Japan and the United States (Nov. 30, 2010, GITEX Showcases Convergence). Such preparations, although in 2006, suggest that the corporation viewed the UAE as a demanding market. Four years following the release of the PS3, sales of the console or its updates continues, with stock being replenished in major stores such as Carrefour and electronics stores such as Jackys. In 2008, it has been reported that the UAE gaming console market has achieved Dhs17.78m sales from January to Mayà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦with 4.448 million units sold and the PS3 dominating the UAE console market with 59% (Aug. 16, 2008, UAE Gaming Con sole Salesà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦). Having achieved such a success back in 2008, and without the existence of present statistics on its current sales rate, it is safe to assume that the UAE consumer market continues to grow in favor of the PS3 and by 2012 the UAE consumer market will still be into buying the PS3. By 2013, though, with the forecasted advent of Sonys new console, the PS4, there might be a decrease in the sales of the PS3. Yet, the release of the new console might not affect the sales in an entirely negative manner; with the introduction of the PS4 to the market, the price of a PS3 would decrease making it more affordable for consumers who were not able to purchase it when sales were at its peak. Also, the introduction of a new console into the market, according to Summers, the previous system still has a lot of value because the new one is still going to be able to play your old games, and because the old one is still going to have new games released for it (Summers, n.d.). Hence, this ensures that UAE sales of the PS3 are to continue, with a little depreciation, despite the introduction of the PS4. However, the UAE consumer market may exhibit a low demand to no demand for the PS3 by 2014, depending on the release of the PS4. If released in late 2012/ early 2013, the new console would have a year to achieve its success and take control of the gaming console market, due to the promised advanced technology it is to offer and the improvement of the real life gaming experience that is being offered by the PS3. Hence, 2014 may be the year where the PS3 takes the bench in the UAE market. Nature of Buying Decision The PS3 targets hardcore gamers, who would want to feel as though they are part of the game. Hence, the specifications offered with the console, such as Hi-Definition gaming graphics which makes the games as realistic as possible, and so on. However, the PS3 does come with a hefty price tag, making it a hard choice for those who would want to purchase it since similar specifications can be found on other consoles that are much cheaper. This is the point of buyer motivation. The PS3, most of the time, releases games that are considered to be exclusive to the consoles, hence maintaining the consoles uniqueness. Furthermore, other incentives are offered with the console, such as a Blu-Ray player, allowing the user to watch movies of outstanding graphical quality and clarity without having to purchase a separate player to indulge themselves in such an experience. Hence, Sony provides its gamers and consumers with a complete package with the PS3. The United Arab Emirates houses some of the most hardcore gamers and currently marked itself as a major gaming market. Hence, since the console offers so much potential along with extras, such as those mentioned above, easily capture a purchasers attention in this country. Also, gamers in this country like to look for the unique gaming experience, and this is exactly what the PS3 offers. Moreover, elsewhere, the hefty price tag would have been a factor influencing the choice. Yet, the UAEs rebound from the recession, along with the technology owning competitive nature of its citizens, helps maintain the current growth in sales of the PS3 as well as the sales for the next two years. Loyalty Segments Having previously released two consoles, the PS1 and PS2, which satisfied their consumers and entertained them beyond measure, Sony is able to secure their loyal fans. The PS3s release into the market was already a guaranteed success due to the reputation earned by its predecessors in the gaming world. All that was needed to attract the attention of the consumers was a change in the console design, making it sleeker and easier on the eyes, and a slight change in the gaming experience previously offered, such as smoother interface, introduction of a complete operating system housing all the consumer needs, and better graphic drivers to make the games resemble reality. Many of the people who purchased a PS3 in the UAE have previously owned, at least, the PS2. Moreover, since the PS2 has been a success in the UAE as well as the region, according to Yasuhide Yokota (Computer Gaming Major Sonyà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦), the country has a large and loyal fan base, in turn assuring the PS3s growth in sales within the next two years. Competition The PS3s current market rivals, in the UAE, are Microsofts Xbox 360 and the Nintendos Wii, even though the latter does not pose as an obstacle since it does not come with half of what the PS3 has to offer to the UAE gamers. Gamers in the UAE seem to have two main interests when it comes to console gaming: Football/ Soccer and racing games. Hence, it is the Xbox 360 that is considered to be a threat to the PS3 since it offers almost all the unique gaming experience specifications, such as high resolution graphics and smooth real life play, as well as the most demanded games, for a cheaper price. In addition, having mentioned the UAEs consumer markets tendency to constantly purchase newer technology and devices, another one of PS3s competitors, although a product of the corporation, is to be the PS4, which is forecasted to be released on Q4 of 2012 or Q1 of 2013 (Naik, 2011) as per the release timeline of the PS3 and its predecessors, even though no official release dates have been mentioned by Sony. Since the PS4 is to be an 8th generation console, it is going to offer advanced technology and better gaming experiences than the PS3 making it a target product for the countrys consumers. Moreover, games are a major influence in the choice of consoles for the consumers in the UAE. Game manufacturers offer their services to all the consoles mentioned above, but these games could differ slightly, as with the case of the PS3 and the Xbox. Since the PS3 and Xbox fight over control, in the graphical aspects, such as real-life gaming experiences, the enabling of high definition game-play and use of surround sound, and other such characteristics that complete the advertised and highly anticipated gaming experience, Sony keeps their consumers through the introduction of exclusive gaming experiences such as the introduction of games that cannot be played other than on the PS3 and such, as well as creating games with titles in Arabic to accommodate and further satisfy the UAEs market. Porters 5 forces Having laid out Porters strategy, in general, for the PS3, relating it to the console and the market of the UAE over a time frame of the next three years is as follows: Threat of Substitutes: As mentioned above, computer games/ PC games pose as substitute to console gaming in general, and it is gaining popularity within the UAE. However, computer games do not offer the same gaming experience that the PS3 has to offer, and are only interesting when played online. This gives the PS3, as well as its console competitors, an advantage; interactive online and offline gaming experiences. Moving on towards the console competitors, the PS3 has been able to establish its place in the market due to offering more as a package, than the Xbox 360 and the Wii, for a price that is within the range of the other consoles, and shares the same life-span, which is an estimate of 10 years. Moreover, with the release of the Wii 2 (2012-2013) which is to have Hi-Def graphics, the price for that console will be higher than the PS3, in turn allowing future consumers and current ones to purchase or remain with the PS3 which offers the same, if not more, level of graphics. Threat of New Entrants: Until the 3rd quarter of 2012, the competition for the PS3 remains the same: Microsofts Xbox 360 and Nintendos Wii. Furthermore, since Microsoft has released that the corporation has no intention of releasing a new console (Dumitrescu, 2009), the PS3 will maintain its current position in the UAE market. By the 4th quarter of 2012 or the 1st quarter of 2013, however, Sony is expected to release the PS4 (n.d., PS4 Release Dateà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦), following the trend set by their previous console releases, which would pose as the PS3s newest competitor, and by the end of 2013 it might relieve the PS3 of its domination of the UAE market. The Intensity of Competitive Rivalry: Within a year (by 2012), the PS3 and the Xbox will definitely have games that exploit their graphical abilities to a great extent. However, since the PS3s entire potential has not been wielded yet (n.d., PS4 Release Dateà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦), the chances are that the UAE market is going to stay with the PS3 since the games released then will/ might require specifications more than what the Xbox 360 has to offer, specifications-wise. In addition, further development of the Playstation Eye will take place, maybe perfecting the flaws of interactive-reality gaming, which takes the Wii out of the equation. Despite the release of the PS4 by the end of 2012 and the beginning of 2013 though, the PS3 will remain to have a stronghold of the market, for then the price of the PS3 is going to decrease and the games offered by PS4 are going to be similar to those available for the PS3, allowing consumers to enjoy the same degree of gaming quality that the PS4 has t o offer. However, through the course of the year, after the PS4 might have had its time to position it-self in the market, newer games, that might exceed the potentials offered by the PS3, will attract the consumers. Bargaining Power of Buyers: This will remain the same over the next three years, for the market is controlled by the three console manufacturers. Until the release of the PS4 and Wii 2, the UAE market is to be the same as it is now. By 2013, when the new consoles are released onto the market, the prices of the PS3 and the Wii will depreciate, in turn forcing the Xbox 360s prices to decrease as well. However, since Nintendos history shows that the introduction of new consoles is synonymous with the halting of production games and gadgets for previous ones, and Sony has done otherwise with the PS3s predecessors (Summers, n.d.), then consumers will consider the PS3 as a safer investment. Bargaining Power of Suppliers: Since the competition is set, and the games sold are similar if not the same for each of the consoles, then the UAE market would remain the same for the next three years, even with the release of new consoles. Stakeholders analysis PS3 Customer Implications PlayStation 4 is expected to have great demand if prices are reasonably high compared to the price of ps3 in an effort to provide as many customers as possible with the opportunity to purchase PlayStation 4. By launching play station 4, consumers will by buying more PS4s than Xbox 360s and Wiis as a result Sony will lead the market for coming years. PS3 Environment Implications These are the plans for the next 3 years regarding the Environment in UAE. Sonys Environmental Plan Road to Zero Green Management 2013 Green Management 2013 Environmental Management Structure Campaigns and advertisements boosting these plans and events will enhance Sonys image in UAE as the brand appears as an environmentally friendly product as a result as the demand for the brand increases demand for ps3 will also rise. These CSR and environment protection activities are costly and will put on a rise to the price of Sony products and therefore the increase in cost will be pushed to the price of ps4 when launched. PS3 Community Implications: Sony is expecting to have a positive impact in the coming 3 years through CSR activities by powering its products and business activities globally. PS3s indulgence in CSR activates is likely to enhance its image in the long run as it will be perceived as a device which not only is entertaining but also environmental friendly. PS3 Distribution Channel Implications Distribution cost will fall in the coming years, consumers will have more pleasant shopping experience more specialized stores and sales people who know exactly what the customers are looking for. Consumers will also start seeing Sony Retailer Network logo in Ads and POS displays. The more enhanced shopping experience will also increase the demand for Sony and therefore result in higher prices in the coming years. Implications over the next three Years Unfortunately, the boundaries of the Product market structure have already been broken due to several technological and socio-cultural factors. The increased substitutability is happening because of the demographics in UAE have evolved and are always looking for the devices that can offer the best gaming experience. The first implication which is likely to increase over the next years is the emphasis on improving gaming portable devices such as Nintendo 3DS which was introduced in UAE in the first quarter of 2011. The owners of Nintendo 3DS understood the new socio-cultural trends ,which is currently enjoying the 3d technology, and created this device for users who want the 3d experience in a smaller screen without the usage of any glasses. Nintendo 3DS being the first ones to provide the gaming experience in 3d had created an enormous amount of buzz in the market; hence, the same idea is now being applied by other companies. Sony Play station 3 owners are yet to utilize this 3d technology; however, in order to compete in this portable gaming industry, Sony will introduce Sony NGP (PSP 2) in early 2012 that will provide an unbelievable gaming experience in small screens. UAE Distributers will vigorously promote NGP towards the launch as the next generation portable entertainment platform and dep loy various measures to further expand the portable gaming market. (Stuart, 2011). Sonys strategy of introducing NGP can provide them with a competitive edge in the portable gaming market; however, only time will tell if they had succeeded. Secondly, the surprising success of portable PC devices like iPad and iPad 2 in the UAE market have created a very unique set of games with a large fan following. The games in the iPad are relatively easier to play and can be very addictive. Moreover, Blackberry that has been a global phenomenon with mass consumption in the Middle East market are introducing its own graphic tablet, with its own official set of games, by the name of Blackberry playbook in the end of 2011 and hence making the portable gaming devices industry more demanding and competitive. (Shuey, 2010). In short, the games in these graphic tablets like iPad and Blackberry which are more motion and movement oriented has solidified their position as a serious competitor in the portable gaming industry for PCs. Thirdly, the improving features of the non-portable personal computers is another major threat which are designed for hard-core gamers who want enormous storage capacity features along with its incredible graphical experience. A perfect example of such computers which provide similar graphical experiences to PS3 and Xbox is Dells Alienware. Alienware might have been launched by Dell in 2008; however, it can support all playstation3 and xbox 360 games making their presence highly competitive in the market. Moreover, it is being upgraded and reintroduced on frequent basis unlike Playstation 3 which takes longer time for its next version to launch. The usage of mouse and keyboards makes the PC industry still a fierce competitor as games will always require fast and accurate hand movements that can only be used on PCs. In addition, PCs are also very economical due to the latest games which can be downloaded on the internet for free as opposed to PS3 games which can be very costly and can take months to arrive. Also, the restrictions of certain popular games with high sexual and violent content are banned by the UAE government; therefore, the PC gamers can enjoy the internet service and can quickly download and play

Resistance, Infections, and Defenses of Streptococcus pyogenes Essay

Resistance, Infections, and Defenses of Streptococcus pyogenes Streptococcus pyogenes was the bacteria that used to be the cause of numerous cases of human sicknesses and deaths. As our technology evolved and advanced, our perspective and understanding of this bacteria grew to a point that it is no longer a huge threat. The once blurry details became so clear that it came to the point of which we can identify, locate, and treat the bug accurately. After those many years of dedication and research, we finally saw exactly how the bacteria came about, entered our bodies, infected our cells, and tricked our immune system to attack itself. We also found out specific details on how the bacteria reproduce, survive in the wild, spread from host to host, and what drugs it was and is susceptible to. Streptococcus pyogenes (Todar, 2002) Streptococcus pyogenes is gram positive, facultative anaerobic, nonmotile coccus, typically 0.6-1.0 ÃŽ ¼m in diameter. The bacteria reproduce in chains and pairs. (Todar, 2002). It is also nonsporeforming and catalase-negative. Some older cultures may lose the gram positive identifications and occasionally there are â€Å"obligate anaerobes.† (Patterson, 2001). There are three different groups of streptococci: Beta-hemolysis which would result with clear surroundings on blood agar, Alpha-hemolysis which would result with red blood cells changing to a green appearance due to the reduction of hemoglobin in the red blood cells, and gamma-hemolytic which is not hemolytic. (Todar, 2002). To identify the bacteria, checking for hemolysis is not the best source of identification for streptococci because the age, species, and many other elements could affect the results. (Todar, 2002). Resistance, Infections, and†¦ 2 St... ...once hundred-percent fatal bacteria. There is no vaccine, but there is a cure. Sooner or later, our diagnostics and understanding of this great killer will come to the point that Streptococcus pyogenes is no longer a threat to our world. Bibliography Duckworth, D. Ph.D., Richard Crandall Ph.D. and Richard Rathe M.D. (1999, May). Streptococcal Infection*. University of Florida. July 29, 2005: http://medinfo.ufl.edu/year2/mmid/bms5300/bugs/strpyoge.html#AA2 Patterson, M. (2001, October). Streptococcus. The University of Texas Medical Branch. July 29, 2005: http://gsbs.utmb.edu/microbook/ch013.htm Todar, K. (2002, May). Streptococcus pyogenes. University of Wisconsin. July 29, 2005: http://www.bact.wisc.edu/Bact330/lecturespyo Fischetti Ph.D., V. (1995, June). The Streptococcus. The Rockfeller University. July 28, 2005: http://www.rockefeller.edu/vaf/strep.htm

Enhancing Employee Job Satisfaction Essay

1.Executive Summary Communication problems often become apparent due to their consequences. If a department suffers from high staff turnover, this often can be a sign of poor communication between and supervisor and the team. If the team doesn’t understand what is expected from them, received unclear instructions or is not sure about the overall strategy and why they are asked to do what they do – all issues down to poor communication – they often feel dissatisfied and this can result in employees leaving the business after a relatively short period of time. Another cause that can justify reviewing if there are any departmental communication problems is low motivation, productivity and poor business performance. If staff does not receive the information they require or do not feel appreciated, valued and kept informed they might not go the ‘extra mile’ for their employer. They might feel frustrated and can’t see the point of what they are doing and this in turn leads to poor performance. Open and regular disagreements between managers and the team, such as open conflict or rejected appraisals, are also a clear sign of communication issues and should be looked into. But suspecting that a departmental issue is down to poor communication is not sufficient to bring improvement about. Once you suspect that there are communication problems how do you find out for sure enabling you to target them? A good method of identifying if there are communication problems is to talk to the involved parties and try to gain an understanding about their opinion. Why do they think the department underperforms? Do they feel they get all the information and feedback they need to do the job? What would they change if they could? Are their opinions heard and accepted? I is important to keep this feedback confidential in order to ensure that honest feedback is received – either through anonymous surveys or through individual conversations with a neutral party such as an HR manager. Another method is to question staff about the things they should know, e.g. how their work fits in with the business strategy and why they do what they do. If they are not able to answer these questions, it is likely that communication is insufficient or ineffective. Identifying communication problems between managers and staff can be easily identified using above suggestions. By rectifying these major positive impacts on business performance and employee satisfaction can be achieved. A final suggestion on how to identify communication problems between managers and staff is to observe how both parties interact. Are conversations kept courteous and respectful and show trust or are they sharp and without showing signs of a good relationship. Body language should also be observed to identify if both parties listen to each other and communicate effectively or if information is not taken in and heard or offered effectively. A review of the key communication channels used can also be very valuable, e.g. email should be used for clear step to step instructions to ensure understanding, but at the same time direct communication face-to-face or per telephone is needed to ensure a relationship is developing and queries can be easily resolved. 2.Background of the study To avoid the consequences of job dissatisfaction. Employees lack motivation, perform poorly and possess negative attitudes means that they are dissatisfaction on the jobs. These symptoms can directly affect a company’s profit and vision. We should understand the reasons why employees are unhappy at work. Understanding the causes can help us find the right solutions. To improve employee motivation and performance, we wonder how to get employees to work with a higher degree of effort. What motivates an employee to perform varies from employee to employee. Some people work to satisfy needs, meet goals or fulfill accomplishments. Motivation to perform is not a rule that can be enforced; it comes from within the employee. To inspire motivation, we must create a work environment that encourages employees to feel motivated. Improve employees’ engagement to prevent unhappiness, turnover and even profit declines. To improve teamwork, is to realize the importance of teamwork and become proactive about having colleagues work together as an important element of the business. We need to improve and enhancing employee’s job satisfaction, engagement, collaboration and teamwork to resulting in increased productivity. Employees are a company’s livelihood. How they feel about the work they are doing and the results received from that work directly impact company’s performance and, ultimately, its stability. For instance, if employees are highly motivated and proactive, they will do whatever is necessary to achieve the goals as well as keep track of performance to address any potential challenges. Employees have low motivation is completely vulnerable to both internal and external challenges because its employees are not going the extra mile to maintain the company stability. An unstable ultimately underperforms. 3. Introduction and background of Hotel 3.1 Introduction & background of Hotel We are one of Hong Kong’s best designed hotel are perfect choice for travelers who demand the best short term stay and long term accommodation. Since we opened in 1997, our hotel in central Hong Kong has been recognized by guests and the hospitality industry for its outstanding performance. The 350 guest rooms are all tastefully furnished and are completed direct telephone line with voice mail. Our equipped kitchenettes include microwave, induction cooker and refrigerator and broadband internet access are available in our hotel. Location Situated in the heart of Hong Kong Island, superbly located in the mid-levels commanding spectacular views of Hong Kong Island and Victoria harbor. It is also a prestigious address that enjoys the proximity to prime business districts of Central and Admiralty. Attraction The Hong Kong Park and Botanical Garden are in the proximity, with lush greenery and ample open space nearby Central MTR station and Hong Kong’s popular nightspot Lan Kwai Fong are also within 10 minutes walking distance. Well connected by public transport to the main shopping district areas, Causeway Bay Hong Kong. It is perfectly located in an area with a mix of history, art & culture, and a touch of stylish contemporary. Antique shops, art galleries and designers boutiques scattered around, together with high rise office buildings, massive shopping centre and party venues of Lan Kwai Fong and SoHo. 3.2 Hotel Structure The Hotel structure that’s split into two basic groups: administrative and operations. The administrative side of the structure includes such departments as sales and marketing, accounting and human resources. The operations side is generally split further into food and beverage and rooms. Both administration and operations report to the general manager. The administrative group is fairly straightforward. Any function that does not consistently interact with the guests or impact the service level falls into this group. The operations group is a bit more complicated. Food and beverage, for instance, might include the hotel’s restaurants, bars, nightclubs, banquets department, catering department and sometimes room service. Rooms might include the front desk and front-door personnel, housekeeping, concierge, guest services and sometimes security and engineering. Human Resources Department The human resources department plays a vital role in a hotel’s efficient operation. The functions of the human resources department are employee recruitment, benefits administration and training. Although the human resources department recruits, interviews, and screens prospective employees, the final hiring decision rests within the department in which the potential employee will be working. Accounting Department The accounting department’s responsibilities are include recording financial transactions, preparing and interpreting financial statements and providing the managers of other departments with timely reports of operating results. Other responsibilities, carried out by the assistant controller for finance, include payroll preparation, ac-counts receivable, and accounts payable. Rooms Department Responsibilities of the rooms department include reservations, guest reception, room assignment, tracking the status of rooms (available or occupied), prompt forwarding of mail and phone messages, security, housekeeping of guest rooms and public spaces such as lobbies, and answering guests’ questions. This very department provides the services guests expect during their stay in the Hotel. The front office is usually considered one of the most important departments in a hotel because that is where the most interaction with the hotel guests takes place. Frequent and consistent communication among front-office functions is critical. Reservations, for instance, must communicate with the front desk each day about the number of rooms that have been presold. The front desk must communicate with housekeeping staff members to let them know when guests check out. Management for all front-office departments must stress consistent and frequent communication to ensure a smooth-running operation. The housekeeping department is vital to attracting and keeping guests through its role of maintaining top quality decor, cleanliness and service. The housekeeping department includes many roles in the service staff of a hotel. Aside from room attendants, who tend to room cleanliness, the department includes gardeners, maintenance men, bellhops, laundry staff and floor managers, as well as, occasionally, customer service professionals. Food and Beverage Department Food and beverage department is to provide food and drink to a hotel’s guests. Arrange multiple events scheduled for the guest. A coffee shop, gourmet restaurant, room service, banquet halls and function rooms where food and beverages are served. This department is an integral place in the hotel which is responsible for the systematic and the actual Service of food and beverage to the general public or customers as per the order in any F &B outlets. Marketing and Sales Department The marketing and sales department’s managers who make up the marketing and sales department are sales, or the selling of the hotel facilities and services to individuals and groups. Sales managers sell rooms, food, and beverages to potential clients through advertising, attendance at association and conference meetings and direct contacts. The marketing and sales department is also removed from most of the day-to-day operational problems faced by other departments. The division of work among the sales managers is based on the type of customers a hotel is attempting to attract. Engineering Department The engineering department’s responsibilities include preventive maintenance; repair; replacement; improvement and modification to furniture, fixtures, and equipment; and ensuring uninterrupted provision of utilities (gas, electricity, water). Preventive maintenance involves routine checks and inspection of the key components of all equipment. Maintenance of recreational facilities may be part of the engineering department’s responsibilities. the engineering department’s responsibilities include preventive maintenance; repair; replacement; improvement and modification to furniture, fixtures, and equipment (FFE); and ensuring uninterrupted provision of utilities (gas, electricity, water). Organization Chart – Appendix I 4.Methodologies 4.1 Questionnaire (anonymous) A staff questionnaire is an effective tool used to find out what the employees feel about the organization, it policies, work environment, job responsibilities, co-workers, superiors etc. In any work environment, it is important for the upper management to be aware of what its staff wants and expects; this will lead to better retention of employees and a mutually productive relationship between the staff and the boss. Staff questionnaires to discover what are employees really thinking. These are completed on an anonymous basis usually once or twice a year. Because the employees can’t be identified we are more likely to get honest answers. This information can be revealing; it may also help to tackle hidden problems quickly and, more importantly, before staff gets blown out of proportion. Sample of Questionnaire – Appendix II 5.Analysis & finding of current problems 5.1Problems in communications Some employees might also be afraid or not feel comfortable to speak up about problems they are having with other co-workers. Some employees might think that if they speak up about trouble they are having they will be frowned upon for future projects. 5.2Employees initiative and commitment Some employee not willing to handle multiple tasks, responsibilities and take on new challenges. Hidden interest in and no enthusiasm for the job and completes assignments slowly and non-efficiently. Not able to adapt to new situations and changing work priorities and responsibilities when needed. 5.3Employee job dissatisfaction Staff expects to get a commensurate reward. The wage should be fair, reasonable and equitable. Employees who feel stuck in their job position are less motivated to maintain high productivity. Managers with poor leadership skills tend to offer little feedback on employees’ performances. 5.4Inter-department conflicts A manager or employee will know an important piece of information, and assume that because he knows it, then everyone else must know it as well. 5.5Employees’ behavior Employees feel threatened by fellow employees, experience workplace burnout, lack respect for management and feel unappreciated. 6. Conclusion Businesses without effective staff communication suffer from lost profits, poor productivity and poor employee morale. In order to solve many business problems, employees need to be able to collaborate and cooperate effectively. Good communication can encourage employees to work harder, solve problems together and work towards a common goal. It is the job of every supervisor, manager or boss to make sure employees are communicating effectively. If a department suffers from high staff turnover, this often can be a sign of poor communication between and supervisor and the team. If the team doesn’t understand what is expected from them, received unclear instructions or is not sure about the overall strategy and why they are asked to do what they do – all issues down to poor communication – they often feel dissatisfied and this can result in employees leaving the business after a relatively short period of time. Another cause that can justify reviewing if there are any departmental communication problems is low motivation, productivity and poor business performance. If staff does not receive the information they require or do not feel appreciated, valued and kept informed they might not go the ‘extra mile’ for their employer. They might feel frustrated and can’t see the point of what they are doing and this in turn leads to poor performance. Employees feel dissatisfied with their jobs at one point or another. Some employees leave their jobs for better opportunities, while others choose to stay. Employees with low job satisfaction can negatively affect a company because they typically lack motivation, perform poorly and possess negative attitudes. These symptoms can directly affect a company’s bottom line. Managers should understand the reasons employees are unhappy at work. Understanding the causes can help managers find the right solutions. One of the primary reasons for job dissatisfaction results from companies underpaying workers. The stress of paying bills with limited income causes many workers to feel dissatisfied with their jobs. A lack of career growth and advancement is another reason why employees are dissatisfied at their jobs. Employees who feel stuck in their job position are less motivated to maintain high productivity than those who do not. Workers feel valued when employers include them in their long-term plans and show their appreciation through promotions. Employees who move up in an organization and receive just compensation to reflect their title and responsibility changes usually commit themselves to the company for the long term. A lack of interest in the work is another reason why employees are unhappy. Most employees want to perform job duties that are engaging and challenging. Monotonous work causes an employee to experience boredom. Bored and unchallenged employees experience little incentive to concern themselves with workplace productivity. The nature of employees’ work accounts for the most situational influence in workplace satisfaction. A key reason employees perform poorly in the workplace is poor management. Managers with poor leadership skills tend to offer little feedback on employees’ performances. Micromanaging and dictating to employees instead of motivating them can cause a decrease in employee productivity. Poor communication is one of the main causes of conflict between employees in the workplace. This can result in a difference in communication styles or a failure to communicate. For example, a manager reassigned an employee’s task to the employee’s co-worker but failed to communicate the reassignment to the employee. This may cause the employee to feel slighted, which can transform into animosity among the two employees and the manager. Failing to communicate in the workplace may cause employees to make incorrect assumptions and believe workplace gossip. Poor communication in the workplace not only causes conflict but decreases productivity and employee morale.

Mkt 421 Week 1

Summary of Point Values for Course Assignments ASSIGNMENTSPoints Individual (75%) Defining Marketing Paper (Week 1) (Sunday, January 8th, 2012)8 Marketing Mix Paper (Week 2) (Sunday, January 15th, 2012)8 Marketing Research Paper (Week 3) (Sunday, January 22nd, 2012)8 â€Å"Using Perceptual Maps in Marketing† Simulation Summary (Week 4) (Sunday, January 29th, 2012)8 Environmental Factors Paper (Week 5) (Sunday, February 5th, 2012)8 Final Examination (Week 5) (Monday, February 6th, 2012)15 Participation (2 points per week, ? point per qualifying day – 2 substantive posts = qualifying day)10 Weekly Summaries (2 points per week)10 Learning Team (25%) Marketing Plan: Phase I Paper (Week 2) (Monday, January 16th, 2012)5 Marketing Plan: Phase II Paper (Week 3) (Monday, January 23rd, 2012)5 Marketing Plan: Phase III Paper (Week 4) (Monday, January 30th, 2012)5 Marketing Plan: Final Paper (Week 5) (Monday, February 6th, 2012)10 Total100 Week One: Marketing Fundamentals DetailsDuePoints Objectives1. 1Define marketing. 1. 2Explain the importance of marketing in organizational success. 1. 3Describe the elements of the marketing mix. 1. 4Explain the importance of the marketing mix in the development of marketing strategy and tactics. . 5Create a marketing plan. 1. 6Identify quantifiable elements that can be used to evaluate, monitor, and control marketing effectiveness. ReadingsRead Ch. 1 & 2 of Basic Marketing. Read Ch. 1 & 2 of Marketing Management. Review this week’s Electronic Reserve Readings. ParticipationParticipate in class discussion. Remember to participate in the class discussions 4 out of 7 days duri ng the week. (2 points per week, ? point per qualifying day – 2 substantive posts = qualifying day)2 Discussion QuestionsRespond to weekly discussion questions. Discussion questions will count as participation. Learning Team InstructionsResources: University Library, Internet Create the Learning Team Charter. (Due Week 1) Create a new product or service for an existing organization. LEARNING TEAM MUST HAVE INSTRUCTOR APPROVAL ON PRODUCT AND ORGANIZATION PRIOR TO STARTING ON PHASE 1. Begin working on the Marketing Plan. Your Learning Team will complete assignments related to creating a Marketing Plan. These assignments will culminate in the Marketing Plan: Final Paper and Presentation due in Week Five. POST: Final Deliverables Folder in Team Forum The Marketing Plan deliverables are: Marketing Plan: Phase I Paper (Due Week 2) Marketing Plan: Phase II Paper (Due Week 3) Marketing Plan: Phase III Paper (Due Week 4) Marketing Plan: Final Paper and Presentation (Due Week 5)Monday, January 9th Individual Defining Marketing Resource: University Library Write a 700- to 1,050-word paper in which you define marketing. Include in your paper your personal definition of marketing and definitions from two different sources. Based on these definitions, explain the importance of marketing in organizational success. Provide at least three examples from the business world to support your explanation. Properly cite sources used in the paper. Format your paper consistent with APA guidelines. A Certificate of Originality should be included. Sunday, January 8th 8 Individual Weekly SummaryPost your summary in the Main forum and begin responding to each other's summaries. Summaries should include key learning points for the week. Summaries should be at least 200 words. POST: Summary thread for each week in the main forum. Monday, January 9th2 Week Two: Marketing Research DetailsDuePoints Objectives2. 1Justify the importance of marketing research in the development of marketing strategy and tactics. . 2Analyze the importance of competitive intelligence and analysis in marketing. 2. 3Identify various segmentation criteria that impact target market selection. 2. 4Describe the various types of organizational buyers and consumers and the factors that influence their purchasing decisions. ReadingsRead Ch. 8 of Marketing. Read Ch. 4, 5, & 6 of Marketing: An Introduction. Review this week†™s Electronic Reserve Readings. ParticipationParticipate in class discussion. Remember to participate in the class discussions 4 out of 7 days during the week. (2 points per week, ? oint per qualifying day – 2 substantive posts = qualifying day)2 Discussion QuestionsRespond to weekly discussion questions. Discussion questions will count as participation. Individual Marketing MixResources: University Library, Internet Write a 1,400- to 1,750-word paper in which you describe the elements of the marketing mix (product, place, price, and promotion), utilizing three different sources. In addition, select an organization with which you are familiar and describe how each one of the four elements of the marketing mix affects the development of the organization’s marketing strategy and tactics. Describe how each element is implemented. Specifically identify your selected organization and the industry in which it exists. Format your paper consistent with APA guidelines. A Certificate of Originality should be included. Sunday, January 15th8 Learning Team Marketing Plan: Phase IResources: University Library, Internet Create a new product or service for an existing organization. This product or service will be the basis for your Marketing Plan Paper. Obtain your instructor’s approval of your product or service before beginning this project. Write a 1,400- to 1,750-word paper to include the following: †¢An overview of the existing organization †¢A description of the new product or service †¢An explanation of the importance of marketing to your selected organization’s success †¢A SWOTT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats, and Trends) analysis on the new product or service †¢The marketing research approach you would use to develop the marketing strategy and tactics for this new product or service Refer to the Marketing Plan Outline listed on the student website for the general framework of the Marketing Plan. Format your paper consistent with APA guidelines. A Certificate of Originality should be included. Monday, January 16th5 Individual Peer EvaluationAfter each Learning Team project, you will be asked to complete a Peer Evaluation to assess the contributions of each member of your Learning Team (including yourself). I will take these Peer Evaluations into account when assessing individual contributions to the Learning Team projects. The Peer Evaluation form and instructions for posting are included in a separate message in the Course Materials forum. POST: Individual Forum Monday, January 16th Individual Weekly SummaryPost your summary in the Main forum and begin responding to each other's summaries. Summaries should include key learning points for the week. Summaries should be at least 200 words. POST: Summary thread for each week in the main forum. Monday, January 16th2 Week Three: Marketing Strategy: Product and Price DetailsDuePoints Objectives3. 1Describe the relationship between differentiation and position of products or services. 3. 2Analyze the impact of the product life cycle on marketing. . 3Identify the appropriate price strategy that should be used in the development of the strategic marketing plan. ReadingsRead Ch. 4, 9, 10, 17, & 18 of Basic Marketing. Review this week’s Electronic Reserve Readings. ParticipationParticipate in class discussion. Remember to participate in the class discussions 4 out of 7 days during the week. (2 points per week, ? point per qualifying day – 2 substantive posts = qualif ying day)2 Discussion QuestionsRespond to weekly discussion questions. Discussion questions will count as participation. Individual Marketing ResearchResources: University Library, Kudler Fine Foods Virtual Organization Use the Virtual Organization link on the student website to access additional company information on Kudler Fine Foods. Write a 1,050- to 1,400-word paper in which you justify the importance of marketing research in the development of Kudler Fine Food’s marketing strategy and tactics, and identify the areas where additional market research is needed. Analyze the importance of competitive intelligence and analysis in regards to the development of Kudler Fine Food’s marketing strategy and tactics. Format your paper consistent with APA guidelines. A Certificate of Originality should be included. Sunday, January 22nd8 Learning Team Marketing Plan: Phase IIResources: University Library, Internet Use the product or service you selected for your Marketing Plan: Phase I Paper. Write a 1,400- to 1,750-word paper in which you address the following: Identify the segmentation criteria that will affect your target market selection. Identify your target market. Describe the organizational buyers and consumers of your product or service and the factors that influence their purchasing decisions. Discuss how these factors will affect your marketing strategy. Analyze current competitors and define the competitive landscape for your product or service. Format your paper consistent with APA guidelines. A Certificate of Originality should be included. Monday, January 23rd5 Individual Peer EvaluationAfter each Learning Team project, you will be asked to complete a Peer Evaluation to assess the contributions of each member of your Learning Team (including yourself). I will take these Peer Evaluations into account when assessing individual contributions to the Learning Team projects. The Peer Evaluation form and instructions for posting are included in a separate message in the Course Materials forum. POST: Individual Forum Monday, January 23rd Individual Weekly SummaryPost your summary in the Main forum and begin responding to each other's summaries. Summaries should include key learning points for the week. Summaries should be at least 200 words. POST: Summary thread for each week in the main forum. Monday, January 23rd2 Week Four: Marketing Strategy: Place and Promotion DetailsDuePoints Objectives4. 1Analyze the impact of channel management decision on marketing. 4. Select appropriate distribution channels. 4. 3Identify the appropriate place and promotional strategy that should be used in the development of the strategic marketing plan. ReadingsRead Ch. 11, 12, 14, & 16 of Basic Marketing. Review this week’s Electronic Reserve Readings. ParticipationParticipate in class discussion. Remember to participate in the class discussions 4 out of 7 days during the week. (2 points per week, ? point per qualifying day – 2 substantive posts = qualifying day)2 Discussion QuestionsRespond to weekly discussion questions. Discussion questions will count as participation. Individual Using Perceptual Maps in Marketing SimulationResources: Using Perceptual Maps in Marketing simulation Complete the simulation, Using Perceptual Maps in Marketing, located on the student website. Write a 1,050- to 1,450-word summary in which you address the following: For each of the three major phases in the simulation, describe †¢The situation †¢Your recommended solutions, including why †¢Your results Summarize the different marketing components addressed in this simulation by answering the following questions: What is the relationship between differentiation and positioning of products or services? Is the repositioning of the product in the simulation as you had expected it to be? Explain why or why not. What is the effect of the product life cycle on marketing? What effect did the product life cycle have on the product in the simulation? Format your paper consistent with APA guidelines. A Certificate of Originality should be included. Sunday, January 29th8 Learning Team Marketing Plan: Phase III Resources: University Library, Internet Use the product or service you selected for your Marketing Plan: Phase I Paper. Write a 1,400- to 1,750-word paper to include the following information: Describe the attributes of your product or service in detail. †¢Describe the pace at which your product will move through the product life cycle and the factors that will affect its movement. How will the product life cycle affect the marketing of your selected product or service? †¢Identify the positioning and differentiation strategies for the product or service. †¢Identify the a ppropriate price strategy that should be used for the product or service. Format your paper consistent with APA guidelines. A Certificate of Originality should be included. Monday, January 30th 5 Individual Peer EvaluationAfter each Learning Team project, you will be asked to complete a Peer Evaluation to assess the contributions of each member of your Learning Team (including yourself). I will take these Peer Evaluations into account when assessing individual contributions to the Learning Team projects. The Peer Evaluation form and instructions for posting are included in a separate message in the Course Materials forum. POST: Individual Forum Monday, January 30th Individual Weekly SummaryPost your summary in the Main forum and begin responding to each other's summaries. Summaries should include key learning points for the week. Summaries should be at least 200 words. POST: Summary thread for each week in the main forum. Monday, January 30th2 Week Five: The Dynamic Environment of Marketing DetailsDuePoints Objectives5. 1Identify environmental factors that affect marketing decisions. 5. 2Explain the impact of technology on marketing. 5. 3Analyze the importance of social responsibility and ethics in marketing. ReadingsRead Ch. 3 & 13 of Marketing Management. Read Ch. 15 & 16 of Marketing: An Introduction. Review this week’s Electronic Reserve Readings. ParticipationParticipate in class discussion. Remember to participate in the class discussions 4 out of 7 days during the week. (2 points per week, ? point per qualifying day – 2 substantive posts = qualifying day)2 Discussion QuestionsRespond to weekly discussion questions. Individual Environmental FactorsResources: University Library, Internet Select an organization with which you are familiar that conducts both domestic and global marketing. Write a 1,050- to 1,400-word paper in which you identify the environmental factors that affect global and domestic marketing decisions. Address the following as they relate to the organization’s marketing decisions: Analyze the influence of global economic interdependence and the effect of trade practices and agreements. †¢Examine the importance of demographics and physical infrastructure. †¢Analyze the influence of cultural differences. †¢Examine the importance of social responsibility and ethics versus legal obligations. †¢Analyze the effect of politica l systems and the influence of international relations. †¢Analyze the influence of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act of 1977, as well as the influence of local, national, and international legislation. †¢Explain the effect of technology. Format your paper consistent with APA guidelines. A Certificate of Originality should be included. Sunday, February 5th8 Individual Final ExaminationResource: Basic Marketing Click the link to the Final Examination on the student website available at the end of Week Four through the end of Week Five. Complete the Final Examination. You are allowed one attempt to complete the exam, which is timed and must be completed in 3 hours. Results are auto graded and sent to your instructor. However, please post a copy in your individual forum. Monday, February 6th15 Learning Team Marketing Plan: Final Paper Resources: University Library, Internet Use the Marketing Plan Outline listed on the student website as a guide. Write a 6,300- to 7,000-word paper integrating your previous Learning Team assignments into a final Marketing Plan Paper. In addition, address the following information in your paper: †¢Identify the appropriate place and promotional strategy that should be used in the development of the strategic marketing plan. †¢Develop an initial sales promotion schedule. †¢Create an advertising plan. †¢Identify public relations opportunities for the product or service. †¢Analyze the effect of channel management decisions on the marketing or your selected product or service. Select appropriate distribution channels for your product or service and address costs in terms of placement, shipping, and middlemen. †¢Develop a budget for your plan. †¢Identify quantifiable elements that can be used to evaluate, monitor, and control the effectiveness of your marketing plan. Format your paper consistent with APA guidelines. A Certificate of Originality should be included. Monday, February 6th10 Individual Peer EvaluationAfter each Learning Team project, you will be asked to complete a Peer Evaluation to assess the contributions of each member of your Learning Team (including yourself). I will take these Peer Evaluations into account when assessing individual contributions to the Learning Team projects. The Peer Evaluation form and instructions for posting are included in a separate message in the Course Materials forum. POST: Individual Forum Monday, February 6th Individual Weekly SummaryPost your summary in the Main forum and begin responding to each other's summaries. Summaries should include key learning points for the week. Summaries should be at least 200 words. POST: Summary thread for each week in the main forum. Monday, February 6th2