Strategic Analysis Of The Automobile Industry Finance Essay - Free Essay Example

Sample details Pages: 8 Words: 2276 Downloads: 7 Date added: 2017/06/26 Category Finance Essay Type Narrative essay Did you like this example? 1. INTRODUCTION The automobile industry involves large capital for a minor decision to be made. Making decisions can be difficult because there are many competitors and one wrong selection can cause immense failure. Don’t waste time! Our writers will create an original "Strategic Analysis Of The Automobile Industry Finance Essay" essay for you Create order The victory of any firm in this industry depends on the sales of the vehicles, meeting the customer demands and overall control and management of the finance with appropriate implementations. A total of 6 manufacturing firms were competing in the industry with variety of vehicle class. Each firm had a management team according to the Stratsim programme. The teams had to formulate strategies and make decisions for period 2 to 5. This programme had two basic objectives; to manage the short cash flow for a positive return for the shareholders and to adapt to the changing environment so as to manage long term returns to the shareholders. This report illustrates the analysis of firm A(amazing cars)with the strategic decisions and goals of the automobile industry according to the team 2. INDUSTRY OVERVIEW Initially, the economy was fairly stable with the reasonable gas prices the demand for vehicles had increased creating opportunities for the manufacturers to have maximum vehicles sales. All the firms started at the same level which gave all he firms a fair chance to compete in the industry, creating market and value for their vehicles. 3. STRATEGIC ANALYSIS 3.1 INITIALLY STRATEGY Since all the firms had started on an equal ground, the main aim for firm A was to maximize the vehicle sales in order to overcome some of the debt by generating into existing markets for its vehicles with regard to positive customer feedbacks. Failure of any vehicle class would be discounted of produced in limited inventory while remaining resources can be used to develop and manufacture new/existing vehicle. 3.2 MISSION and VISION of Firm A (Amazing cars) Mission The mission was to develop quality cars in order to satisfy customer demands Vision The vision of the firm was to grow into the leading vehicle manufacture in the industry and produce a variety of other vehicles in the long run with competitive pricing so as to cover all the consumer market segments. 3.4 INTERNAL ANALYSIS 3.4.1 SWOT Strengths The team was working unanimously in all the decision making process by giving different strategies and various marketing, operational and technological tools to be used for the decisions. Our aim was to satisfy and overwhelm the customers by fulfilling the demand and requirements Weakness Decisions were made based on short- term returns thus causing financial loss at the end All the firms started at the same level with similar product specification, leaving no room monopoly of firm A The variety of the vehicles firm A offered was relatively less thus may not be meeting all the consumer market segments Weak financial position to start with as there was a debt and decision costs were high. 3.4.2 VRIO Value: initially the firm started with a positive cash flow to take the company forward. The decision to upgrade Alec and Alfa in period 2, was fruitful as it increased sales and there was a profit which helped to clear part of the debt Rareness: starting at the same level in the industry left rareness out of the box for firm A (amazing cars). The rareness came in the final decision when the new product AEV was launched, creating a need for it in the first three decisions made. Imitability: the imitability was relatively high in the programmes since any firm could duplicate other firms decisions because all the decisions were available on the web for the other firms to see. Thus there were high risk factors in the Stratsim programme. This programme had very little differentiating options to create uniqueness of the firms Organisation: the organisation started off well but due to mismanagement of the funds and weak strategic planning the decisions did not favour the organis ation resulting into the decline of the firms growth rate. At the end the firm had incurred a loss. (See appendix 1) The VRIO model was not practical at first due to the similar firm attributes in the industry but with the ongoing decisions and periods the model could come handy for firm A when undertaking strategies and decision making process. 3.5 EXTERNAL ANALYSIS 3.4.3 CRITICAL SUCCESS FACTORS Critical success factors are divided into two; threshold factors and differentiation factors. In the case of firm A (amazing cars), we have tried to concentrate on the basics like vehicle performance, safety and durability. Example for the family and economy vehicle, safety has been the main aspect and performance for the truck. The differentiating factors can be fuel efficiency and interiors because 5 of 6 firms are competing with the same vehicle class making it difficult to differentiate the vehicles from one another. 3.5.1 PESTEL ANALYSIS Political: the changing policies and government intervention on gas prices and pollution may cause the sales to drop because people may purchase fewer automobiles. Economical: financial crisis, economic instability and natural disasters may pop in anytime leaving the car industry in jeopardy. This is because cars are expensive and its not a necessity to have a luxurious automobile resulting into lower sales. Social: the change in taste and preference of the consumer may occur anytime due to the economic factors or rise in income which may lead to the demand of luxurious automobiles. Technological: the development in technology is increasing causing people to desire for new and eco friendly automobiles. The initial capital to manufacture cars is high thus the Firm may not be able to change and produce new cars all the time. Environmental: the automobile industry is always under great pressure as the gas emissions from these automobiles are harmful to the environment. In totality all aspects of pollution is covered like noise pollution is also another environmental factor which can and does affect the industry. Legal: the changing laws and regulations on traffic control and pollution may either favour the industry or not favour the firm thus causing a risk to the firm 3.5.2 SWOT analysis Opportunities Every firm started at the same level thus there was zero competition. Thus firm A had a fair chance to make its mark in the market with its strategies Firm A was manufacturing 3 vehicle class meaning that other market segments for the remaining vehicle class like AEV , minivan and luxury were untapped creating an opportunity for Firm A Appropriate use of the funds in research and development can lead to profitable long term returns. Threats Every firm had the advantage of being first mover in the industry since all the firms started at the same level making it a risk for Firm A. This is because the other firms can launch a new product before Firm A. Changing laws and regulations of the economy regarding gas emissions Economic instability like inflation and recession could lead to downfall in the vehicle market. The ongoing competition for the top manufacturer by the firms in the industry. 3.5.3 PORTERS FIVE FORCES Threats of new entrants: the threat of new entrants if low due to the high capital investment required for the manufacturing plant. Also the programme started at a fixed level allowing no liberty for new entrants Threat of substitutes: the threat of substitutes is low. 5 of 6 firms are producing similar products in industry and the period for competition is fairly less so there are very little options for substitutes. Manufacturing new product takes time so that is another contributing factor. Bargaining power of supplier: according to my knowledge car parts and necessities are manufactured by few specific suppliers for a single firm thus giving an upper hand to the suppliers. The other aspect it that there are very few suppliers in the overall industry making it difficult for a Firm to change/shift to other suppliers, therefore bargaining power of the suppliers is medium to high. Bargaining power of consumer: with 5 firms producing similar product in the market, the consu mers have their pick with the best vehicle available considering the major factors like price, quality, safety and efficiency. The bargaining power of the consumers can be a risk if other firms have competitive price range. Existing rivalry amongst firms: with the ongoing level of competition in the industry the existing firms are giving a stiff competition to Firm A. The fraction of differentiation between the vehicles is relatively less and the time frame of the programme limited product differentiation resulting in all the firms into using price differentiation strategy. Thus the existing rivalry is high in the industry 4. SIMULATION RESULTS Initially, in the first decision the management team upgraded 2 vehicles, Alec and Alfa. These were minor upgrades done in the area of interiors, safety, style and quality. The dealer were offered higher discount percentage so to increase sales and also dealerships in north and south were increased 10 and 20 respectively. The first decision brought significant profit and amazing cars was going on the right track. (Appendix 6.1) The family car did subsequently well and become the most preferred vehicle until period 4. The sales for both Alec and Alfa increased. Ace, the truck was upgraded in the 3RD period since the Firm had 2 development centre and only two products could be upgraded at the same time. In period 4, the sales dropped due to poor strategic planning. According to the decision in period 2, a new product was to be manufactured in period 4 but due to less funds and poor marketing decisions, the firm postponed the launch till period 5. This resulted into risk from other firms as firm D launched a car in period 4 using the first mover advantage. The team tried to market the products in the best way possible by increasing dealers in north, south and west regions so as to get maximum coverage. We also offered extra discount to the dealers which would motivate them to sell more vehicles in order to earn higher commission. In the technological aspect no new development centres where launched as the cost were really high. The team was not ready to take the risk which probably caused the decline at the end. The portfolio analysis shows the vehicles are between question mark and dogs implementing that the vehicles need to either be enhanced to suffice the customer needs or further decline may cease manufacturing one of the vehicles. (Appendix 6.10) The launch of two new vehicles Altima (AEV) and Acra (minivan) is expected to boost sales and do well in the market. This will only be known in period 7 since the programme has been over with. Thus this remains suspense. 5. CONCLUSION The firms objective was to increase returns and become the largest manufacturer in the industry. The first two decisions made it a little possible but gradually the sales dropped (appendix 6.1) and the growth curve was going downwards. This may be because the firm wanted to play safe with the funds and did not invest in the right areas of technological aspect and marketing aspect. According to the performance summary the firm is forth out of five firms for Alec and Ace. Alfa did a slightly better and is rated 3 from the 5 firms In totality the firm started off well with high returns and declined towards period 5. This may be due to the lack of strategic planning. Although the firm has made a significant profit over 4 years as the initially opening cash balance was 485 million and ending cash balance was 616 million, but debt has increased to 14902 million. (Appendix 6.3 and 6.4) 6. APPENDIX 6.1  Performance Summary Period 5 Firm A Per. 2  Per. 3  Per. 4  Per. 5  Sales ($) $19,478.2 $20,132.7 $18,477.2 $14,461.6 Sales (000s units) 1,229 1,270 1,170 930 Market Share ($) 21.4% 20.5% 20.1% 15.2% Market Share (units) 21.5% 20.5% 18.9% 14.2% Net Income $120.9 $89.3 $-294.9 $-3,187.8 Cum. Net Income $805.0 $894.3 $599.4 $-2,588.4 Stock Price $29.54 $26.44 $20.61 $5.88 Market Value $14,771.0 $13,219.7 $10,305.9 $2,942.0  Return on Sales 0.6% 0.4% -1.6% -22.0% Return on Assets 1.6% 1.3% -3.8% -22.5% Firm Preference 19.0% 17.6% 16.9% 14.2% Dealer Rating 61 61 60 57 COGS 80.1% 80.9% 82.3% 83.2% Capacity Utilization 123.4% 133.0% 130.1% 120.1% Debt $3,897.0 $3,401.0 $4,795.0 $14,902.0 Stock Issue/Purch. % 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% Note: Dollar amounts are in millions. StratSim Ind:ind1 Firm:a Period 5 User gre9304 6.2 Income Statement Period 5 Firm A $Mill. $Mill. Sales 14,462 100.0% Materials 8,259 57.1% Labor 3,768 26.1%   Ãƒâ€šÃ‚  Gross Margin 2,434 16.8%  Marketing 240 1.7% Research and Development 929 6.4% General and Administrative 904 6.3% Manufacturing Overhead 580 4.0% Depreciation 800 5.5%   Ãƒâ€šÃ‚  Income from Operations -1,019 -7.0%  Extraordinary Items -530 -3.7% Interest Income/Expense -1,639 -11.3%   Ãƒâ€šÃ‚  Net Income -3,188 -22.0%  Tax 0 0.0%   Ãƒâ€šÃ‚  Income after Tax -3,188 -22.0%  Dividends 100 0.20/sh StratSim Ind:ind1 Firm:a Period 5 User gre9304 6.3 Balance Sheet Period 5 Firm A Assets $Mill.  Liabilities $Mill. Cash 616 Accounts Payable 1,684 Receivables 1,128 Short Term Debt 14,902 Inventory 6,152 Long Term Debt 0 Plant and Equip. 11,714   Ãƒâ€šÃ‚  Total Liabilities 16,586 Depreciation -5,436 Stock ($1 par) 500 Retained Earnings -2,912   Ãƒâ€šÃ‚  Total Equity -2,412  Total Assets 14,174 Total Liab. and Equity 14,174 StratSim Ind:ind1 Firm:a Period 5 User gre9304   6.4 Cash Flow Statement Period 5 Firm A  $Mill. Starting Cash 485 Income from Operations -1,019 Plant Investment -3,714 Financial Operations 8,368 Adjustments -3,504 Ending Cash 616 StratSim Ind:ind1 Firm:a Period 5 User gre9304   Product Contribution Period 5 6.6 Firm A Product Contribution  Vehicle  Units (000s) Dealer Sales (mill.) Direct Sales (mill.)  COGS (mill.) Gross Margin (mill.) Adv  Ãƒâ€š Promo (mills.) After  Ãƒâ€š Mkting (mill.) Ace 185 $3372 $0 $2524 $848 $55 $793 Alec 286 $2857 $0 $2925 $-68 $60 $-128 Alfa 460 $8233 $0 $6579 $1654 $75 $1579 Total 930 $14462 $0 $12027 $2434 $190 $2244 Note: Dollar amounts are in millions. 6.7 Per Unit Contribution  Vehicle Per Unit Revenue Per Unit COGS  Per Unit Margin Margin Pct.  Ãƒâ€š Adv  Ãƒâ€š Promo Per Unit Contrib. Contrib. Pct.  Ãƒâ€š Ace $18243 $13654 $4589 25% $298 $4292 24% Alec $9998 $10235 $-237 -2% $210 $-447 -4% Alfa $17908 $14311 $3597 20% $163 $3434 19% Total $15545 $12928 $2617 17% $204 $2413 16% Note: Dollar amounts are per unit. StratSim Ind:ind1 Firm:a Period 5 User gre9304 6.8 Distribution Detail Period 5 Firm A North South East West Total Full Coverage 200 250 150 200 800 Established Dealers 138 165 120 128 551 Coverage 69% 66% 80% 64% 69% Planned Openings -10 -20 0 -15 -45 Support/Dealer (000s) $86.1 $74.2 $96.9 $91.7 $86.2 Units/Dealer 1,509 1,679 1,634 1,944 1,688 Sales/Dealer (mill.) $24.9 $28.0 $26.8 $31.7 $27.8 Service/Dealer (mill.) $1.4 $1.4 $1.7 $1.8 $1.6 Gross/Dealer (mill.) $1.9 $2.2 $2.2 $2.5 $2.2 Dealer Rating 57 57 58 58 57 StratSim Ind:ind1 Firm:a Period 5 User gre9304   6.9 Manufacturing Detail Period 5 Firm A Capacity (000s) 1,000 Coming on Line (000s) 500  Vehicle Prod. (000s) Sales (000s) Inv. (000s) Days Inv.  Comment Ace 224 185 125 246 Alec 353 286 94 120 Alfa 625 460 244 193 Total 1,201 930 462 181 StratSim Ind:ind1 Firm:a Period 5 User gre9304 6.10 Portfolio Analysis Period 5 StratSim Ind:ind1 Firm:a Period 5 User gre9304

Cause/Effect of immigration reform - 971 Words

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Report Is To Explore the Option of Adopting Robotics Technology

Question: Discuss Report Is To Explore the Option of Adopting Robotics Technology? Answer: Introduction This report covers a case study of adoption of Robotics for an Artificial Intelligence company which is located in Brisbane. The company is planning to use robotics for its manufacturing, mining, and transporting operations across Australia and also aims to expand into Asian region. Robotics is proposed to be used for this expansion plan. A five year strategy plan for the same has to be developed. This report investigates the potential of Robotics, its advantages, disadvantages, and formulates this five year plan for its adoption by the AI firm. Based on this exploration, a plan for implementation of robotics in the company would be presented for the next five years. Robotic technology Robotics refers to designing, development, and use of machines that can perform a range of tasks automatically without much human intervention. Current use of robots Car industry was the first to adopt robotics in a factory environment for assembling such that manufacturing productivity can be improved. In the current century, robots are mainly used for completing hose tasks that are either tedious or unsafe for humans such as mining, military and transportation. Some robots are also used for home applications such as vacuum cleaning, gutter cleaning, and lawn moving, and so on(Cappella J, 2001). With growing dependence of the world on robots, work environments have started to change across the world. Considering the importance of Robotics, Queensland State Government has started a program to teach coding and robotics to students of State Schools from early ages. It is believed that thee programs have the potential to make students better problem solvers. Moreover, humanoids can help those learners who suffer from disabilities with development of communication and social skills. Today, robots have a wide variety of applications in multiple industries including telecommunications, military, medical, industrial, and consumers. In telecommunication applications, Robots can be used to control applications using wireless connections like Bluetooth, wifi, internet, and tethered connections. Such applications can be used for space exploration, hazardous area exploration, and biomedicals. Some examples of such robots include Mars Exploration Rovers, Invasive surgical systems, remotely operated vehicles, and Hubble space telescope(Bauml Hirzinger, 2006). Military uses robotics to reach places that can be unsafe for humans or for the purpose of safe exploration. Some examples of robotic systems used in military applications are Talon Robots, Dragon Runner, MPRS, MATILDA, T3, URBOT, REDCAR, and so on. ARTS is robotics equipment which is used for disposing explosive ordinance materials by military. Medical robots are used for general surgeries, gastrointestinal surgeries, cardiothoracic surgeries, neurosurgeries, radio surgeries, orthopaedics, paediatrics, urology, gynaecology, and cardiology. Da Vinci Robot is a three armed robot that carries miniature cameras to take 3D images of inside parts of human body. Other popular robots used in medical field include Robodoc, Robot injection device, and ZEUS Robotical Surgery System(Carroll, 2017). Consumer robots are usually made for entertainment or interaction with the owners of robotic devices. Some examples of consumer robots are Wow-wee Robosapien V2, AkaZawa's Desktop PLEN Robot, and Wow Wee Robopanda. Industrial robots are used for enhancing production outputs and performing repetitive actions such as welding, painting, ironing, packaging, palletizing, assembling, pickup, product inspection and product testing. Industrial robots can have different purposes and based on the same, robots can be categorized into small robots, low payload robots, medium payload robots, robots for heavy duty applications, and special models. There are many organizations that produce robots for industrial robots such as ABB, OTC, Hyundai, Panasonic, Toshiba, Kuka Robotics, and Janome to name a few. Types of Robots Robots can be classified on the basis of different criterion such as types of movement, application of robotics, architecture, and the brand. Following these criteria, robots can be divided into four types including articulated, Cartesian, cylindrical and polar. Articulated robots have rotary joints through which base is connected to a robotic arm. In such robots, movement can happen using any joint and thus, they provide a great deal of flexibility. Cartesian robots are rectilinear and they operate using Cartesian coordinates. Linear motion is possible in these robots with prismatic joints. These robots are mostly used for applications like sealing, transferring, stacking, as conveyors, and so on. Cylindrical robots have both rotary joint that rotates with the base and prismatic joint that moves linearly. Polar or spherical robots have an arm connected to base with a twisting joint combined with rotary and linear joints. These types of robots are mostly used in industries to enhance productivity, increase efficiency, and reduce operational errors(Implement Partners, 2016). Expansion into Australian and Asia The use of industrial robots is on a rise in Asia. In 2015, the sales of industrial robots rose by 19% than previous year to 160,000 units. 43% of these sales were from China. 89% of the robots sold to Asia and Australia come from China, South Korea and Japan as per World Robotics Report 2016(Carroll, 2017). Thailand is a growing market for robotics in Asia and in 2015, 2,600 units of robots was supplied to the country. India brought 2,100 robotic units in 2015(IFR, 2016). Robotic technology Adoption Strategy Advantages Disadvantage of Robotics Use of robotics in an industrial organization can have several advantages including: Use of robotics leads to increase in throughput which enhances productivity of a manufacturing unit and thus, reduce the production costs With the use of robotics in manufacturing unit, production cycle times are reduced because of increased efficiencies of manufacturing processes As robots can perform actions with more precision and accuracy, the quality and reliability of products can be enhanced. The footprint of the work area is greatly reduced with robots and thus, space utilization is better Because of accuracy of robots, the material utilization is reduced and thus, there is less wastage in production As use of robotics can automate processes and thus, there are less delays and faster production schedules which would enhance customer satisfaction and thus, being in more revenues for the organization With robotics, multiple processes and activities can be integrated including welding, material handling, packaging, palletizing, cutting, and so on(JEVTIC ANDINA, 2007). There can also be some challenges in using robotics for a manufacturing unit such as: Robotics require huge investments which can leave the company with less liquidity and thus, it can have greater financial implications on the organization if it does not work as expected If the needs of robotics are not identified properly, it can lead to overdue of robotics or underuse. In any case, organization can either lose on money or productivity of the operations. As robotics is relatively newer technology, it is very important to provide training to all the people using it which needs significant time. However, if sufficient training could not be gathered then it can lead to problems (RObotWorx, 2017). Use of robotics can reduce the human intervention which on one side is good but on the other side, it makes people less equipped to handle things on their own as they become more dependent on robots If the investments on robotics have to be reduced then it would require humans to operate the systems. Though it would reduce the number of workers required but at the same time, it would demand a high level of efficiency from the people handling robot devices. Because of the complexities involved in technology, a high level of training is required which would be a major cost to the company besides the cost of implementation and thus, the total cost of adoption of robotics in a manufacturing organization can be significant. With increased use of robotic machines for managing operations, the maintenance would be required more frequently which would be a cost to the company. With robots taking over most of the work, the organization would have to let go of several employees which would put the company into bad reputation for layoffs. At work, the use of robots can make the environment safer(LIN, BEKEy, ABNEY, 2009). However, concerns are raised as robots in a manufacturing setting have the potential to take over jobs from human workers. Ethical concerns are also raised with a thought that humanoids can hurt humans or destroy their properties if they get hacked such that the attacker takes control over robots to commit crimes(Joordens, Eega, Jaimes, Jamshidi, 2008). Potential solutions for risks Major risks that can occur in robotics application include increased dependence on robots, loss of human employment, increased risk to humans and operations because of hacking, and high cost of implementation and training. These problems can however, be overcoming by taking following steps: Increased dependence on Robotics: An organization may only use robotics where repetitive or dangerous tasks have to be performed that do not add value to human learning such that highly intellectual work is taken care of by humans and the dependence on robots is reduced. Job Loss: Humans tend to lose jobs to robots but at the same time, people who are adept at doing multiple takes and handling multiple operations can still be retained in an organization even after robots take up some of their work. Thus, organizations should work on development of their employees to make them professionally equipped to handle robotics as well as other operations that do not use robotics with higher efficiencies. Increased competencies in human workers can help them retain their jobs even after the implementation of robotic technologies(Jackson Eddy, 2000). Security Risks: As robotic devices of today are mostly connected to internet, there is an increased risk of hacking which can disrupt critical infrastructure off company causing major havocs like power blackouts, data hacking, and loss of control over machines that can cause harm to the company and so on. Thus, it is very important that companies understand the implications of such security threats and deploy proper procedures and security measures to protect their systems from getting hacked. High Cost: Robotics does have high cost of implementation as well as cost would be incurred in training. It cannot be avoided but the returns can be gained that overcome this drawback by saving the company more money than invested my making efficient use of robotics. With proper planning, formation of implemetation and operational strategies, organizations can actually use robotics to increase their productivity, save operational costs, and enhance process efficiencies which would gain them more money. Moreover, with the implementation of robotics in applications like mining, production and logistics, the deliveries to customers can be made faster and more accurate that would bring in better reputation for the company in the minds of the customer them increasing their level of satisfaction and trust. This can get the company more trusted customers as well as good reputation that would bring in more customers helping company gain more revenues(businessknowledgesource.com, 2013). Conclusions This report explored the idea of adoption of robotics for AI firm that wants to implement robotic system for their mining, production and logistics operations. The report explored various industries where robotics is used as well as explored different types of robots that can be used for these applications. The report also identified specific advantages as well as challenges that the company can face while adopting robotics in the organization. It was found that robotics can have significant benefits for any manufacturing organization as it can help company increase accuracy, efficiency of operations, speed of deliveries, and save on operational costs. At the sometime, it also comes with a few challenges such as increased dependence on robots, loss of human employment, increased risk to humans and operations because of hacking, and high cost of implementation and training. However, most of these risks can be overcome by taking appropriate measures such that the company can make the b est use of robotics for its benefit. In the next section, a plan for implementaton of robotics technology in the AI Company for mining, manufacturing and logistics is presented highlighting the steps that company can take to go ahead with the adoption based on the lessons learned till now. Recommendations Based on the study conducted, certain recommendations can be made on the adoption of Robotics or mining, manufacturing, and transportation activities in the organization. The organization can follow below steps for implementation of robotics: Identification of Opportunities: The first step is identification of opportunities where robotics can be implemented considering mining, manufacturing, and transportation. In mining, robotics can be used for navigating through tunnels, automating loading and unloading, object detection, underground navigation, machinery automation, and drilling walls or mines for carving(Nanda, Dash, Acaharya, Mohrana, 2010). When considering transportation, robotics can be used for warehousing and distribution operations of the organization. Most factories use some kind of automation systems such as conveyors, sorters, and pickers and some of the components of these systems can be called as robotic systems. However, loading and unloading still has a scope for automation which can be done using robotic systems like Parcel Robot which takes care of sorting, packaging, loading and unloading. This robot has a chassis, a conveyor belt, 3D laser scanner, and a group system. The robot can unload items, sc an bar codes, analyze parcel sizes, and identify best unloading sequence for improved logistics(Kckelhaus, Huber, Niezgoda, Bischoff, 2016). Validate the Opportunity: At this stage, processes that are decided to be automated using robots would be analyzed for their adaptability. The analysis would be done for transactional and decision specific parts to understand what benefits each robotics installation would bring to the business such that appropriate design models can be formulated. These steps of identification and validation of opportunities should take around 6 months before an actual design model is made for robotics adoption. Select Appropriate Design Model: Based on the requirements for automation of mining, manufacturing and transportation operations, processes can be redesigns such that the scope for implementation of robotics could be maximized. Specific needs of the business processes would require customization of the robotics design model considering input capturing, building of codes, and upgrading of systems. The process of model designing would take another six months for the company. Developing Implementation Plan: At this stage, all the processes and scenarios would be identified that would be affected by the robotic implementation. The target would be to automate over 75% of the processes using robotics. The implementation plan can be prepared on the basis of the design model in a month. Deployment of the Pilot Phase: Before robotic systems are finally put to use in respective divisions, a pilot phase would be run in which stakeholders would be involved for assessing the potential of the new implementation such that any need for big fixing, modification or training could be met before the actual roll out of the system takes place. The pilot phase can be deployed in the next six month followed by the testing of the same to ensure that it is effective which could take 6 more months. Roll Out: A plan for training people on the use of robotics system in the company would be developed which would include documentation and actual training for employees. At this stage, some processes would be affected in a way that it would make the jobs of some people redundant and thus, management has to prepare for the big change by handing over the jobs from employees to robots and retaining only those employees in the company who still have relevant profiles beyond robotic capabilities. Actual roll out can begin with introduction of technology for one operations and in one division such that the entre process of implication and testing is repeated only after seeing the effects of implementation. Activities Milestones Opportunities identification 3 months Validation of opportunities 3 months Design model selection 6 months Implementation planning 1 month Pilot Phase I - Manufacturing 6 months Testing 6 months Roll out 6 months Pilot Phase I - Mining 6 months Testing 6 months Roll out 6 months Pilot Phase I - Transportation 6 months Testing 6 months Roll out 6 months References Bauml, B., Hirzinger, G. (2006). Agile Robot Development (aRD): A Pragmatic Approach to Robotic Software. Wessling, Germany: German Aerospace Center. businessknowledgesource.com. (2013). THE BENEFITS AND DISADVANTAGES OF USING ROBOTICS IN MANUFACTURING. Retrieved May 8, 2017, from businessknowledgesource.com: https://www.businessknowledgesource.com/manufacturing/the_benefits_and_disadvantages_of_using_robotics_in_manufacturing_033176.html Cappella J, P. C. (2001). Rules for responsive robots: using human interaction to build virtual interaction. Cambridge University Press. Carroll, J. (2017, February 1). Industrial robots in Asia on the rise. Retrieved May 8, 2017, from Vision Systems Design: https://www.vision-systems.com/articles/2017/02/industrial-robots-in-asia-on-the-rise.html IFR. (2016). Executive Summary World Robotics 2016 Industrial Robots . IFR. Implement Partners. (2016). Agile Robot Development. Implement Partners. Jackson, E., Eddy, D. (2000). Design and Implementation Methodology for Autonomous Robot Control Systems. International Submarine Engineering, Ltd. . JEVTIC, A., ANDINA, D. (2007). Swarm Intelligence and Its Applications in Swarm Robotics. Universidad Politecnica de Madrid . Joordens, M. A., Eega, S., Jaimes, A., Jamshidi, M. (2008). Applications and Prototype for System of Systems Swarm Robotics . WACONG. Kckelhaus, M., Huber, A., Niezgoda, D., Bischoff, H. (2016). ROBOTICS IN LOGISTICS. DHL Trend Research. LIN, P., BEKEy, G., ABNEY, K. (2009). Robots in War: Issues of Risk and Ethics . Ethics and Robotics , 1 (2), 49-55. Nanda, S. K., Dash, A. K., Acaharya, S., Mohrana, A. (2010). Application of RObotics in Mining Idustry: The Critical Review. Indian Mining Engineering Journal , 108-1112. RObotWorx. (2017). Advantages and Disadvantages of Automating with Industrial Robots. Retrieved May 8, 2017, from Robots.com: https://www.robots.com/blog/viewing/advantages-and-disadvantages-of-automating-with-industrial-robot

Oil Spills (873 words) Essay Example For Students

Oil Spills (873 words) Essay Oil SpillsOil is a product used by everyone, but sometimes oil is a problem. An oil spill is aleakage from an oceangoing tanker, pipelines, or other oil sources. Oil spills occur veryfrequently, and cause enormous ecological harm. About eight million barrels of oil arespilled each year. Tankers usually carry about five-hundred million barrels of oil. Many oil spills, large in land or ocean coverage, have had major impacts on theearth and its inhabitants. Many animals are die and some are injured in some way. Manyplants and animals are endangered, or are now extinct. The largest oil spill to occur waswhen the Exxon Valdez went aground and covered 4,800 square miles in Prince WilliamSound, Alaska. This spill killed 35,000 sea birds, 10,000 otters, and at least nine whales. The spill left pools of oil up to three feet on some beaches. In December of 1989, anIranian tanker leaked 70,000 tons, about 19 million gallons of oil off of the coast ofMorocco. In January 1990 a broken Exxon pipel ine leaked 567,000 gallons into the NewYork harbor. In June of 1990, another 260,000 gallons were spilled in New York Harbor. A tanker carrying 38 million gallons of oil caught on fire, and leaked oil into the Gulf ofMexico. This was a very serious threat to local shrimp nurseries and wildlife refuges. InFebruary of 1990, 300,000 gallons leaked from a damaged tanker off Southern California,fouling miles of shoreline. In the Niger River delta, in Nigeria, Shell pipelines haverepeatedly burst. In 1970 oil spilled across 8 square km, which remained contaminated forover 20 years. According to the U.S. Coast guard, the incident rate post is only 0.5 spills peryear. In fact, there have been no large spills over 5,000 barrels from tankers in the USsince 1991. The US Coast Guard data shows that the amount of oil spilled by tankers hasdecreased dramatically. Worldwide pollution from tanker spills is a relatively minorsource of marine pollution. It only represents a small fraction of the oil released to theenvironment, when it is being compared to industrial waste, non-tanker shipping, and oilseepage from natural resources. Ships are but one part of an overall safety system thatincludes charting, aids to navigation, the condition of channels, and the resources that theCoast guard can bring to ensure standards are being met. The United States suffers frommeasurable neglect in portions of its marine infrastructure. The Refuse Act, which was first enacted in 1899, makes it a crime to allow refuseto enter navigable waters. The Migratory Bird Treaty Act, makes it a crime to kill certainbirds. These laws were not intended to apply to an oil spill, but prosecutors use them tointimidate and punish individuals without an obvious connection to a spill. The singlemost positive improvement that Congress can make to the legal regime, is to amend theRefuse Act and the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, to make them inapplicable to oil spillscovered in the Clean Water Act. Oil Spill Wildlife Management (OSWM), in businesssince 1989, is a wildlife consulting firm. OSWM offers its clients an alternative to thewildlife dilemma. Donjon Environmental Marine Services is a synergistic organizationcreated to provide the maritime industry with responsive, and cost-effective answers tomeet the requirements of The Oil Pollution Act of 1990. Garner Environmental Servicesprovides a 24 hour emergency response for any type of pollution incidents. GarnerEnvironmental Services specializes in the management of disposal of waste streams, andmaintains a fleet if equipment and drivers to transport these waste streams from industrieson the Gulf Coast. Clean Venture Inc. is a leading contractor in handling waste, andhazardous oil materials. Since, its establishment, Clean Venture Inc., has responded tomore than five thousand oil and hazardous material spills and has performed over tenthousand projects, ranging in size from 1,000 to 3,000,000 dollars. How can we prevent oil spills? The US oil and natural gas industry, supplies morethan 65 percent of Americas energy. ?By nearly every measure, the volume of spills inUS waters has been on a steady downward trend since 1973,? states Captain James D. .u7273ce8e679ff15bc62db1cb32ac7282 , .u7273ce8e679ff15bc62db1cb32ac7282 .postImageUrl , .u7273ce8e679ff15bc62db1cb32ac7282 .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .u7273ce8e679ff15bc62db1cb32ac7282 , .u7273ce8e679ff15bc62db1cb32ac7282:hover , .u7273ce8e679ff15bc62db1cb32ac7282:visited , .u7273ce8e679ff15bc62db1cb32ac7282:active { border:0!important; } .u7273ce8e679ff15bc62db1cb32ac7282 .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .u7273ce8e679ff15bc62db1cb32ac7282 { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #95A5A6; } .u7273ce8e679ff15bc62db1cb32ac7282:active , .u7273ce8e679ff15bc62db1cb32ac7282:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #2C3E50; } .u7273ce8e679ff15bc62db1cb32ac7282 .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative ; } .u7273ce8e679ff15bc62db1cb32ac7282 .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #2980B9; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .u7273ce8e679ff15bc62db1cb32ac7282 .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .u7273ce8e679ff15bc62db1cb32ac7282 .ctaButton { background-color: #7F8C8D!important; color: #2980B9; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://artscolumbia.org/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .u7273ce8e679ff15bc62db1cb32ac7282:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #34495E!important; } .u7273ce8e679ff15bc62db1cb32ac7282 .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left : 18px; top: 0; } .u7273ce8e679ff15bc62db1cb32ac7282 .u7273ce8e679ff15bc62db1cb32ac7282-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .u7273ce8e679ff15bc62db1cb32ac7282:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } READ: Education and Society Essay Spitzer, the chief of the US Coast Guards Office of Investigations. Most spills that occurare usually small, based on data from the US Coast Guard. In 1997, more thanthree-fourths of the spills in US waters were under ten gallons of oil, which is less than acars fuel tank can hold. From the year of 1989, the year of the Exxon Valdez accident,the amount of oil spilled in US waters has declined from fourteen million gallons to 1.1million gallons spilled in 1997. Every part of the modern petroleum industry hascontributed to the progress being made. Exploration and production facilities useadvanced materials and techniques, with plenty of back up safety systems. Pipelines usecomputers, electromagnetic instruments, and ultrasonic devices to detect weak spots, sothey can be repaired before it is to late and a leak develops. Marine terminals and vesselsare being made differently. Tankers are being built with double hulls. Storage tanks areconstructed of special materials to withstand corros ion. People play important roles inprevention, by signing petitions, striking companies, and some boycott, which isntsuccessful because oil is an everyday use. Everyone can become a part of theconservation and prevention of oil spills. Science Essays

Integrated Marketing Communications

Communication effort as a way of marketing a particular brand makes use Integrated Marketing Communications (IMC) (Smith Taylor, 2004). Through this concept, the relationship between the customer and the brand is greatly enhanced. The communication efforts employed here are primarily meant to foster a warm customer relationship so that a particular brand can be consumed at will by customers.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Integrated Marketing Communications specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Such relationships are also considered to be profitable since they are cross-functional in nature. For instance, these communication efforts are considered to be profitable owing to the fact that all the messages sent to the active and prospective customers are meant to be persuasive since they encourage dialogue. Quite a number of relevant marketing communication tools are usually integrated and employed when IMC concept is a dopted. The rationale is to create the greatest impact to the consumers at a cost that is relatively low and manageable (Percy, 2008). In most instances, internally directed communications, customer-focused as well as marketing channels are all affected in this form of integration. When developing an Integrated Marketing Communications Plan, it is imperative for a company planning to advertise and market breakfast cereals suitable for both young and old, to bear in mind the right promotional strategies that will not only reach the target audience but also be cost-effective (Kitchen Pelsmacker, 2004. The two communication efforts will markedly differ along the IMC plan such that the latter will depict the behavior of buyers, brand management and corporate image. For instance, a company marketing its brands should not give conflicting messages that may equally confuse the entire market. In any case, the aforementioned components form part and parcel of foundation for an organisation. Another difference is the consumer and trade promotions that can be used to push sales. Others include customer relations management, data base marketing and personal selling (Shimp, 2008). They are all different since they are classified as promotional tools. Additional, another difference emerges in the design of advertising used. Several tools exist here. For example, selection of the advertising media is paramount. Others are execution frameworks and advertising design and management that has been put in place. The last difference is the nature of integration tools used for promoting a certain brand or product.Advertising Looking for essay on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More The marketing program is integrated in addition to entrepreneurial ventures that are available for newly introduced products into the market. One typical example is the case of Kellogg’s company whereby the two communication efforts differ significantly in the sense that the company is using a mixed variety of reaching out for its consumers. Indeed, if Kellogg’s were to cereal breakfast for both the young and old age, then it can still apply such winning strategies such as giving prices upon purchase, relaying messages of goodwill upon exercising after utilizing the product, convincing the buyers that both adults an children will benefit from sensible breakfast (Kellogg, 2010). Kellogg is also promoting healthcare concerns upon using its products. For instance, c consumption of food substances that have low sodium content as well as engaging the public (consumers) in corporate social responsibility. In recap, it is imperative to note that the various marketing mix available as part and parcel of communication efforts to consumers can all be applied differently both at the product and brand level. For example, positioning, targeting and variables of segmentation are some of the marketing componen ts that have revolutionized promotional strategies. Nonetheless, the very elements have been boosted by the internet (such as in the application of e-commerce). References Kellogg. 2010. Promotions. Web. Kitchen, J.P. Pelsmacker, de P. 2004. Integrated marketing communications: a primer, New York: Routledge.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Integrated Marketing Communications specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Percy, L. 2008. Strategic Integrated Marketing Communications, Burlington: Elsevier. Shimp, A. T. 2008. Advertising Promotion, and Other Aspects of Integrated Marketing Communications, Ontario: South-western Cengage Learning. Smith, R. P. Taylor, J. 2004. Marketing communications: an integrated approach, London: Kogan Page Ltd. This essay on Integrated Marketing Communications was written and submitted by user Math1as to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here. Integrated marketing communications Introduction Burjeel hospital is the largest private hospital in Abu Dhabi situated in Al Najda Street. The hospital has advanced treatment equipment and many US and European hopitals. Burjeel hospital is a 202 bed facility offering comprehensive services in more than thirty different specialties (Burjeel Hospital Offers Free Heart Surgeries, 2013).Advertising We will write a custom research paper sample on Integrated marketing communications – Burjeel hospital specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Integrated marketing communication is an approach to achieving the goals of the marketing campaigns by using the multiple marketing strategies in a coordinated manner. Such marketing strategies include; paid advertisements, social media, public relations and many others. Since commencing services in the year 2012, Burjeel hospital has used effective marketing communication strategies to reach its customers. Some of the well-used strat egies by the hospital in marketing communications are involving social media, public relations and advertisements. The promotion mix According to Kotler Armstrong (2010), the organization’s promotion mix is a well-coordinated integration of paid advertisements, public relations, direct marketing and sales promotions to communicate and build relationship with the customers. The promotion mix strategies used by Burjeel hospital are: Service promotion – The hospital consistently uses service promotion to reach new markets globally. It has launched a compassionate initiative called â€Å"100 free heart surgeries† and persuaded heart patients from the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Middle East and other countries across the world to register for free heart surgery. The event was a big success and attracted applications from various countries across the world. Patients from Yemen, India, Oman, Saudi Arabia and Bahrain were among the beneficiaries of the initiative. The initiativ e used  advertisements over the screen and print media to reach many heart patients globally. Although â€Å"100 free heart surgeries† was  a compassionate campaign, the hospital used it as a marketing strategy to reach new customers across the world (Burjeel Hospital Offers Free Heart Surgeries, 2013). Public relations – The hospital has distinguished its services from its competitors in the industry by offering quality services, therefore building its reputation in the corporate world. The hospital entered into alliances with various reputable organizations to grow its reputation further.Advertising Looking for research paper on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More According to the hospital’s website, the partnership between the hospital and Brussels University enabled the establishment of an In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) test clinic within the hospital which was the first such clinic in UAE (Burjeel Hospital Offers Free Heart Surgeries, 2013) According to the hospital’s website, it builds partnerships with various insurance service providers to serve its customers better (Burjeel Hospital Offers Free Heart Surgeries, 2013). Partnerships with insurance service providers offer customers diversity in medical bill payment hence increasing the hospital’s efficiency. The hospital has effectively used the social media, online newsletters and press releases to communicate with its customers creating awareness of its services. It has active Facebook, Twitter and YouTube accounts which it uses to communicate and share information through advertisements. Burjeel Hospital Offers Free Heart Surgeries (2013) reported that the most effective advertisement method used to market the free heart surgery by the hospital was the social media. Communications process According to Kotler Armstrong (2010), for marketers to effectively communicate with their clients, they need to clearly understand the communication process. The communication process starts by identifying the target market. For example, the hospital targets middle-class and high-class patients with special medical problems and its marketing communication strategists should exploit available avenues to reach these people. The hospital’s marketing department main aim is to reach new customers to increase its market share. Burjeel hospital is a new entrant in the industry and most of its customers are at awareness phase, therefore it uses several methods to effectively reach them. For example, the hospital used the media and its website to broadcast its press releases informing the public about the opening of the hospital (Burjeel Hospital Offers Free Heart Surgeries 2013). The hospital’s marketing communication goal is to move as many customers as possible from awareness to preference and liking phase. The hospital uses its excellent public relations, quality service deli very and corporate reputation to motivate clients to develop a preference and liking of its services (Burjeel Hospital Offers Free Heart Surgeries, 2013). After the first step of identifying the target audience, the marketer must compose a clear marketing message. The marketing strategist can add emotional, moral or rational appeals to attract attention and provoke action from the targeted clients. Burjeel hospital effectively used emotional appeal to reach its clients in the†100 free heart surgeries† initiative advertisements (About Us. n.d).Advertising We will write a custom research paper sample on Integrated marketing communications – Burjeel hospital specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The hospital employs personal and non-personal communication methods to reach its customers. It retains the communication contacts of its patients and their families and communicates with them from time to time about changes an d new services in the medical facility. The intention of this is to develop relationships with their patients who in turn refer other patients to the hospital. The hospital also uses advertisements over the broadcast and print media to reach its customers. For example, the hospital used advertisements over the print and screen media to create awareness among the residents of Abu Dhabi and the UAE about its expansion plans (About Us. n.d). The hospital ensures that high credible sources deliver its marketing messages to increase persuasion. The press releases from the hospital are always delivered by the hospital’s managing director making them authoritative and credible. To set up an effective feedback system, the hospital offers its customers an opportunity to express their opinion through its website. The hospital’s website has a â€Å"contact us† page which allows customers to leave their feedbacks. It further uses the social media and call centers to collect feedback from its customers (Burjeel Hospital Offers Free Heart Surgeries, 2013). Communication effectiveness The communication process used by the hospital has been effective because the hospital has significantly increased its market share since its inception. The hospital has experienced growth in the last one year and is a famous brand in the UAE and the entire Middle East. Currently, the hospital attends more than a hundred thousand patients from different countries annually (About Us. n.d). According Burjeel Hospital Offers Free Heart Surgeries article (2013), the hospital is planning infrastructural expansion which will accommodate more than three hundred beds and fifteen medical specialties upon completion. Promotion mix strategy Burjeel hospital uses push and pull strategy to reach its customers. The hospital markets its services via its good public relations, corporate reputation and other forms of advertisements to create a demand vacuum that motivates patients to seek s ervices at the hospital, therefore its advertisements directly target the customers. The hospital also uses push and pull strategy to market its services through several third-party agencies. The hospital uses alliances with other medical organizations like the Brussels university medical department to market its medical services. Although the hospital’s main advertisements and marketing promotions target its customers directly, it also uses strategic alliances to push its market position.Advertising Looking for research paper on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More References About Us. (n.d). Retrieved from Burjeel hospital website. Burjeel Hospital Offers Free Heart Surgeries. (2013, March 24). Saudi Gazette. Web. Kotler, P. Armstrong, G. (2010) Principles of Marketing (13th ed.). New Jersey: Pearson Education. This research paper on Integrated marketing communications – Burjeel hospital was written and submitted by user Aniya Weeks to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here. Integrated Marketing Communications Introduction Marketing is an organizational function that entails a set of processes for communicating, creating, implementing and delivering value to customers. It helps to manage customer-business relationships in a way that will benefit both the organization and the stakeholders involved. Such processes succeed in moving people closer to making a decision to purchase and facilitate a sale. Marketing communication is a very essential aspect of any business organization. (Kitchen, 1997)Advertising We will write a custom report sample on Integrated Marketing Communications specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More This paper looks at Aldi’s case study. It identifies the market segments that Aldi is operating in. It also focuses on the current and potential marketing communication channels used by Aldi to reach its target customers. There is also a competitor analysis of the channels. The paper also explains the benefits that Aldi mi ght accrue from developing a website. This includes strategies on how Aldi can drive traffic to the website. Finally, opportunities for reciprocal listings and other marketing communication strategies are included in this paper. (Belch, 2004) Aldi market segments According to Kitchen (1997), market segmentation is an imperative aspect in any business. This is considering the fact that the chosen segment always determines the growth and accrual of profits within the organization. An analysis of Aldi stores shows that it has had local market segments. This is whereby its products are sold in the local market. This is clearly indicated by the marketing communication strategies that the organization has been involved in. Aldi’s strategies were not targeting a wider global population. (Kitchen, 1997) It has not been venturing into international market segments. Another aspect of Aldi’s market segments entails low income people. This is clearly illustrated in its pricing str ategies. From the case study, it is quite evident that Aldi’s products have been having low prices. This definitely indicates that the store has not been targeting the affluent segment of the society. This is also indicated in the image that the store has been having. This is in line with the exterior and the interior aspects of the business premises. (Lages and Filipe, 2004) Marketing communication channels It is quite clear that Aldi’s current marketing communications strategies also include television advertisement. This through what the organization refers to as television campaign. (Kitchen, 1999) Through this, the organization will be in a position to market its products to a wider population within the United Kingdom. This is one of the marketing communication strategies that are quite effective since many people watch their television sets virtually every day.Advertising Looking for report on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your firs t paper with 15% OFF Learn More Other marketing communication strategies noted are newspaper adverts and posters. Through these two channels, potential customers are also informed of the organisation’s products. It is however worth noting that sometimes newspapers can only reach out to a narrow market segment. (Dan, 2003) This is considering the fact that there are so many newspapers in the current market and customers don’t buy all newspapers while some do not buy them at all or even don’t bother to read them. Posters are a good way of marketing especially when they are strategically placed. The key objective of these communication tools is to increase the organization’s customer base. (Lages and Filipe, 2004) This is also geared towards profit maximization within the organization. An overall analysis of Aldi’s operations shows that it has various marketing communication channels. One of its current marketing communication channels entail s refurbishing its existing stores. This is also evident in the plans to update all its new stores such they become more customer-friendly. This also includes the aspects of re-branding its stores. (Kitchen, 1999) In this case, the organization is trying to improve its image and communicate to its customers about improved products and services. This is an essential avenue of marketing communication as customers tend to judge an organization’s products based on the Company’s overall image. This is actually aimed at luring more customers to try the organization’s products. Another marketing communication strategy in Aldi entails the use of discounts on its purchased products. This is aimed at retaining its customers and also enticing customers to buy more products from the stores. This is considering the fact that the more the customers buy, the more the discounts on the purchased goods. (Lages and Filipe, 2004) Competitor analysis Each and every business has its competitors. In this case, Aldi stores also have various competitors in the market. They include Tesco and Sainsbury superstores. An analysis of marketing communication channels within these organizations shows that they are up to date. These to superstores carry out their marketing communications through various ways. This includes through television and radio advertisements. (East, 1997) This enables them to reach a very wide population within United Kingdom. The two are also known for carry out their marketing communications through posters.Advertising We will write a custom report sample on Integrated Marketing Communications specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More This are strategically placed in city centres in attractive colours. One of the most essential communication marketing strategies that the two have incorporated is online marketing. The two organizations have websites where they market their products. This therefore indic ates that they do not just target customers within United Kingdom but also those within the global market. Aldi’s benefits from developing a website One of the best marketing communication strategies in the twenty first century entails online marketing. E-marketing is relatively a new advancement in the field of marketing even though there are many business and customers who have switched from traditional to online marketing. This necessitates that Aldi opens a company website. There are various benefits that the organization will accrue from developing a website. One of the benefits includes reaching out to a wider market segment. (Kitchen, 1997) This is considering that through the website, potential customers across the globe will be in a position to access it. This shows that it does not have geographical limitations. This website will also enable Aldi to increase its sales. This is bearing in mind that customers will be in a position to order for products online without necessarily having to travel to the premises. According to Kitchen (1997), this is also a much cheaper way of marketing as compared to other strategies such marketing through television and the use of posters. Having a website will also enable Aldi stores to cut down on costs. This is especially the costs that are associated with employing professional personnel in the marketing department. Marketing responsibilities which could have otherwise been done by many marketers can be done by one employee. This therefore saves on the cost of paying salaries to many people within the organization. (Kitchen, 1997) The other advantage that Aldi will definitely have relates to convenience associated with marketing through a Company website. Through the use of a website, Aldi will definitely enjoy the benefits of flexibility of time spent on marketing communication. This time will be used to carry out other duties within the organization. Strategies to drive traffic to Aldi’s website It is very essential that Aldi puts in place strategies that will help to drive traffic to its website. One of the strategies that Aldi can have is by writing its website on the receipts given to customers after they purchase their products. Since the organization also uses television adverts, it can advise potential customers to visit its website for more information. Through this many of its customers and potential customers will start using Aldi’s website.Advertising Looking for report on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Another strategy that can help Aldi to drive traffic to Aldi’s website includes marketing through yahoo, gmail and google URLs. This is by having pop ups as people access their mails. Through this, various people will be able to see the website as they access their emails. This definitely will make many people to start accessing the company website. (Hart, 1995) The organization can also take the initiative of communicating to various stakeholders through its Company website. This includes its suppliers and customers. Through this, the marketing team will drive traffic to Aldi’s website. Traffic can also be driven to the Company’s website through reciprocal listings as indicated below. Opportunities for reciprocal listings Aldi stores can use reciprocal listings to create traffic to its website. Through this custom messages and requests will be automatically sent to diverse theme sites that are normally stored in a database. Through this, Aldi can make any annou ncements to the wider population concerning its Company website. This of course spurs interest in the recipients who take steps of visiting the advertised website. (Blythe, 1997) Through this, reciprocal listings definitely drive the specifically targeted traffic to the website. Research has also shown that web listings help to increase the overall popularity of a website and in the long run there are increased sales. It is highly recommended therefore that Aldi creates a partners page that will play an essential role in enhancing traffic to its website. (Willis, 2009) Suggestions for other products or services In order to enhance Aldi’s business it is essential that it increases its products and services. One of the most essential services that Aldi can get involved in includes cyber cafe within its premises. This is considering the fact that many people use the internet on a day to day basis. This is for both personal and business purposes. Through this, Aldi will improve i ts customer base since as customers seek for internet services, they will also purchase products within the store. (Rimini, 2003) Other products that this store needs to be involved in include wooden furniture. This should be for both home and office. Aldi needs to find suppliers of quality furniture and ensure that there is a constant stock of the same. This should mostly be of wooden materials since many customers prefer them. Many customers are always on the look out for leather furniture and these should also be stocked in large quantities. (Kumar and Morris, 2007) This will help the store to greatly increase its customer base. This is considering the fact that furniture is always needed in offices as new businesses are started and also to replace old ones. Aldi should also seek to fill the gap that pertains to all household products. This is ranging from cutlery, foodstuffs such as sugar, flour etc. (Fill, 2005) Aldi can also increase its product line by ensuring there are item s such as a variety of footwear stocked in its stores. There is need to include stationery such as writing materials and books on various topics. This should also include current magazines and newspapers that are usually sourced for by thousands of readers each single day. (Fill, 2005) Communicated to the target market Aldi stores need to take the initiative to communicate its new products and services to its target market. This should be done through online advertisements on the Company website. This can be done by having the photos of products such as furniture displayed on the website. Through this, the targeted customers will get to know of the new products in Aldi. (Lages and Filipe, 2004) It would also be essential that Aldi communicates to its target market about its new products through television adverts. This should be done in such a way that the products are displayed to the viewers. Through this, the store’s target customers would be able to know of its new produc ts. (Nilson, 1992) Another way through which Aldi can inform its target customers of new products is through radio adverts. This should be done at specific hours when the target customers are mostly listening to the radios. For instance, these advertisements need to be aired just before news when many people tune in to listen. Through this, Aldi will reach out to wider population. This is considering the fact that majority of target customers tune in even in their offices via their mobile phones etc. (Kumar and Morris, 2007) Opportunities for Customer Relationship Marketing Aldi needs to make use of various opportunities in line with customer relationship marketing. This should be initiated by carrying out research on customers expectations from Aldi. This can be done through marketing communication channels such as Company website. (Kumar and Morris, 2007) This is where customers can easily fill forms online on their expectations. These ideas can then be incorporated in the storeâ €™s product lines. Coupons for marketing can also have a space where customer fill in their expectations and drop them in one of the stores. This will enhance customers’ relationship with the business. (Neumann, 2002) The marketing department should give customers contacts that they can call any time within working hours to confirm on various issues pertaining to the business. This will definitely enhance the store’s relationship with its customers. Through these strategies, Aldi will be able to maintain its loyal customers and also attract potential customers in the target market. Conclusion In conclusion, Aldi store’s current market segments entail the local market and the low income customers. This organization is using various marketing communication channels. These include television adverts, use of posters, improving Company image and newspaper adverts etc. Its competitors use up to date marketing communication channels such as online adverts. Developi ng a website would help Aldi to increase its customer base, save time and finances. Aldi can drive traffic to its website through reciprocal listings. There is need for increasing its product line and carry out customer relationship marketing. This will help it to succeed despite the tough competition in the market. Reference Belch, B. (2004): Advertising and promotion; 6th Ed; London; McGraw Hill Blythe, J. (1997): The essence of consumer behaviour; Harlow: Financial Times Prentice Hall Dan, S. (2003): The Birth of Internet Marketing Communications; Westport, Conn; commercial online systems East, R. (1997): Consumer behaviour; advances and applications in marketing; Harlow: Financial Times Prentice Hall Hart, N. (1995): Strategic public relations. London: Macmillan Hart, N.A. (1998). Business to business marketing communications; 6th Ed; London: Kogan Page Kitchen, P. (1997): Public relations; principles and practice; London: International Thomson Business Press Kitchen, P. (1999): Marketing communications; London: International Thomson Business Press Kumar, V. and Morris, G. (2007): Measuring and maximizing customer equity; a critical analysis; journal of the academy of marketing science; 35(2); 157-71 Lages, L. and Filipe, D et al. (2004): Export performance as an antecedent of export  commitment and marketing strategy adaptation; evidence from small and  medium-sized exporters; European Journal of Marketing; Bradford; Vol. 38, Iss 9/10; p. 1186 Neumann Eva (2002): Marketing Communications: A Vital Element of Achieving Change, in The Public Manager Ray Sumser Nilson, T. (1992): Value added marketing. London: McGraw Hill Fill, C. (2005): Marketing communications; engagements, strategies and practice. 4th ed., Harlow: Financial Times Prentice Hall Rimini, M. (2003): Advertising works; Vol. 12. Henley-on-Thames: World Advertising Research Centre Willis, K. (2009): Marketing communications; available at  www.academyofmarketing.info This report on Integrated Marketing Communications was written and submitted by user Marcus Valentine to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.

British Colonists Becoming Americans essays

British Colonists Becoming Americans essays By the eve of the American Revolution, a large number of colonists had already developed a strong sense of their identity and unity, and considered themselves true Americans; not just English immigrants. While most Americans realized that they must unite to win their freedom from England, not all colonists supported the cause. The Americans discovered that they did have many things in common. They were all being unfairly taxed, and they could not have representation in Parliament. In 1773, the English enacted a tax on tea that was sold in America; this tea tax enraged the colonists, and resulted in the Boston Tea Party, which in turn caused the English to create a blockade on Bostons ports. This hurt the economy of Boston, which was then one of the major American cities, because the citizens could not receive valuable shiploads of supplies, such as food and textiles, until they repaid England for the damages caused when the tea was destroyed. Since Parliament consisted of people only from England, there was no one to voice an opinion about the particular need of the colonists. In a statement showing the distinction between the colonists and the English at home, Edmund Burke asked, Is there a single Trait of Resemblance between those few Towns, and a great and growing people spread over a vast quarte r of the globe, separated from us by a mighty Ocean? (Document B). But, the blockade at Boston Harbor also had a positive effect on America. As a result of the English action, Boston was cut off from food, and the other American colonies rallied to the support of their fellow colonists. As can be seen by records of the times, colonies including Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and many others sent supplies like grain, corn and sheep to Boston (Document G). As the colonists began to realize that they shared common goals, they started to unify. The unification was helped along by propaganda such as t...

Service in the restaurant industry Research Paper

Service in the restaurant industry - Research Paper Example This essay examines service in the restaurant industry through the consideration of a variety of inputs. As noted above the restaurant experience begins as soon as an individual walks into the restaurant, as such it is highly important for a restaurant to consider service from these very early stages. For most restaurants this begins with having a successful host or hostess. There are a number of considerations that go into successful service within this portion of the house. As restaurant service is contingent on being prompt effective efficiency behind the scenes must also be considered. Still, in terms of immediate impressions it is necessary for the host or hostess to have a clean-cut appearance and demeanor. Oftentimes restaurants will search for hostesses with a particular-look or attitude as it immediately signals to the customer the culture and attitude they will be treated with throughout their visit. Additionally there are a variety of other means by which the host or hostess can contribute to overriding service. One of the central aspects of the hostess job is greeting the c ustomer directly. By engaging directly with the customer when they walk into the restaurant the host enacts a connection that should be carried through until the customers finish their meal and exit the restaurant. After greeting the customer it is essential they discern their needs and inform them if there is going to be a potential wait; in the case there is no wait the host or hostess must bring the customer promptly to their table. While such considerations constitute the most outward elements of service, as noted earlier it is also the host’s responsibility to ensure that things behind the scenes are taken care of. Perhaps most central to his or her role in these regards is keeping in contact with each server’s stations. In the restaurant industry each server is

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The Battle Of Algiers Film Review Film Studies Essay

The Battle Of Algiers Film Review Film Studies Essay A film is a piece of art that aims to entertain as well educate. It is a popular kind of entertainment that is created by a certain culture, and may affect another one. There are various genres of films, with each having its own aim and characteristic. For instance, historical movies (films) are designed to tell about history, comedy ones are to amuse and provoke laughter and so on. Films are always pregnant with meanings and messages that the audience has to depict while enjoying the scenes and following the course of the story. The Battle of Algiers is a worldwide famous film that was banned by France because of the ideas and reality it transmits to the world about the guerilla war that took place in Algeria and led to the destruction of a whole population while seeking their freedom. The film describes the events from two different points of view and aims to convey a lesson at the end. Credits The Battle of Algiers is a war film which is a recreation of the events that happened in the capital city of Algeria between 1954 and 1962 during the Algerian War of Independence. The film won the Golden Lion Award from the Venice International Film Festival in 1966, the International Film Critics Award also in 1966, and the United Nations Award from the British Academy of Film and Television in 1971. It was directed by Gillo Pontecorvo who was a member of the Italian Communist Party at the time and was implicitly on the side of the independence movement. He was nominated as Best Director for the movie in 1966 from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Science. The film was inspired by Souvenirs de la Bataille dAlger which Saadi Yacef, who was a leader of the FLN (Front de Liberation National), wrote in prison. The screenplay, which was written by Gillo Pontecorvo and Franco Solinas and was nominated as Best Original Screenplay in 1966 from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sci ence, describes the sufferings of both sides: the Algerians and the French both civilians and military. The movie was filmed in black-and-white and the casting took place in the actual locations of the struggle which made the scenes appear as if they were recorded the time they were happening and not a recreation of a bloody war which ended a long history of colonization in Algeria. To stress his neutrality vis-à  -vis the two parts of the struggle, Pontecorvo tried to create parallels between the scenes of both French and Algerian people being assassinated and killed by using the same tragic music. However, he made a difference between the French and Algerian approaches to the war by using different sounds to symbolize each groups approach: the sound of gunfire, helicopters and truck engines for the French, and the bomb blasts, ululation, wailing and chanting for the Algerians. Pontecorvo uses non-professional actors for the movie, maybe because he wants the events and the screenplay to be sought for their importance and not only for the sake of the famous actors involved. So, he chose Brahim Haggiag, an Algerian, to play the role of Ali la Pointe. His adversary, Colonel Mathieu, was acted by Jean Martin, the only professional in the film, who was an actor, mainly acting in theater (in Waiting for Godot), and have been member of the French paratroopers in Indochina. Besides, Saadi Yacef, the former FLN leader, played the role of Jaafar, another FLN leader. Plot The film is shot in flashback and it is shown as the memories of Ali la Pointe (played by Brahim Haggiag) who was a leading member of the FLN. The film opens with scene in which the French paratroopers arrests Ali and he starts remembering the events that occurred 3 years earlier when he joined the FLN. The film describes the atrocities from which the French and the Algerians suffered. It traces the resistance of the Algerians (mainly the FLN members) to free their country from the colonizers as well as the French measures taken to stop them and remain in Algeria. When Alis memories are over, he and the other remaining FLN members are killed. However, the elimination of the FLN does not stop the resistance but rather turns it to a nationwide one asking for an independent Algeria which is finally achieved in 1962 with the Declaration of the Independence of Algeria. Characters The main actors of the movie are the persons who were involved in the real-life experience, which made the film appear like a documentary rather than a recreation of events. Saadi Yacef, who was a leader of the FLN and was put in Jail by the French, acted in the movie as an FLN leader also under the name of Jaffari. The bombing in the cafà ©s and French agencies or the assassination of either French or Algerians are in fact a recreation of what Yacef lived. Even when he was arrested by the French in the Casbah, he is acting his own arrest. The other member of the FLN is Ali la Pointe which was played by Brahim Haggiag. Ali was a thief who was arrested and put in prison where he witnessed the executions of Algerians. Once he was released, he became a member of the FLN but he was first tested to make sure that he was not a spy (he was asked to kill a French policeman). Even if Brahim Haggiag was not, in reality, an FLN leader; he lived at the time of the struggle for liberation and witnessed, and may have participated as an Algerian, in the resistance against colonialism. He can be seen as the representative of all Algerian young people who were ready to sacrifice themselves to ensure their peoples freedom. The third major character of this film is Colonel Mathieu, played by Jean Martin. He represents the efficiency and seriousness of the French military. He came from France to ensure stability in Algeria when the FLN members became threatening the French existence in Algeria. He is very influential and follows strategic method of fighting the enemy instead of just spontaneous violence. He has a strong personality and can at any time change the course of events once he feels that its not in his benefit. For example, when an FLN a leader is captured and a press conference is held, he stops the conversation as soon as he feels that the enemys words started to influence the audience. Besides, when answering a journalists question, he said openly that if they want France to stay in Algeria, they must accept the consequences. Other important characters in this film are women. Unlike what is usually known, that war is reserved for men, the battle of Algiers involved both men and women who fought side by side to reach their goal. Women serve as a secret bunker for weapons and guns as they are the only ones who are exempt from inspection, and hence, they can carry them in their bags. A most striking scene in the movie is when three FLN women drop their veils and assume a French look to be able to enter a French cafà ©, nigh club and travel agency to plant explosives and create an alert situation among the French. So, women were a vital part of the FLN and fought with men to ensure freedom. One last character to mention is Omar, the small boy whose duty was mainly to transmit letters and serve as a messenger between the FLN members and which represents the Algerian children who participated in the resistance and who proved to be older than their ages. Thus, the Algerian society, with all its components, was mobilized against the common enemy which was the French colonialism. Conclusion In the Battle of Algiers, Pontecorvo shows the inevitability of violence. In other words, every part wants to be the winner and hence tries to be the last one to inflict the other: an execution of an FLN leader led to the assassination of many French policemen, which led to the French bombing the Casbah which led to the FLN women bombing the French sites (cafà ©s and offices). The film clarifies history and tells us that we keep repeating the same mistakes over and over even today. This film is pregnant of messages. On the on hand, it tells us that violence can lead only to violence and not peace. On the other hand, it gives a moral lesson to the countries which try to interfere in other countries internal affairs and try to impose their own will. They will be losers no matters how long they manage to stay there. The Battle of Algiers is a film which is worth seeing since it tells us history as well as moral lessons on how we should respect others properties as well as struggle to preserve ones own belonging.