Zara Case Study

Despite the current centralized distribution model working well and at below capacity, continuous rapid expansion outside of Spain for Inedited brands (exhibit 8) would bring problems of; larger amalgamation of dispersed network pictures, rater demand and customization for Ezra offerings from consumers. This would further bring the effects of discomposes of scale; increased transportation costs, top heavy Organization, potentially exceeding working capacity, increased risk if central distribution centre fails.No standardized market position – Sara's expansion approach have led them to be positioned differently in each geographical market despite targeting the same consumer segment, Ezra currently use company-centered knowledge to determine price and positioning strategies for different geographical segments. This has caused inconsistent consumer perception of their brand e. . Americas and Spain. Being in a globalizes marketplace, this poses a problem to the global perception a nd position of the Ezra brand.Competitive Environment -? Ezra is competing in a competitive market where the competition are seeing similar growth in stock prices and revenue (Exhibit 3, Exhibit 5). Competitors such as have already achieved similar competencies to Ezra in terms of variety and stock refresh, and have obtained more advanced competencies such as localization of distribution centers, reducing the competitive advantage that Ezra has in terms of flexibility in their products array and enabling the threat f substitution.Other competitors such as Unique have further gained competitive advantage by differentiating themselves in the saturated market of fast retailing by using an undifferentiated marketing approach targeting a larger customer base, leading to a revenue growth rate greater than Ezra from 2009-2010 (Exhibit 5). Potential Solutions A potential solution for Ezra is the possibility of forming a joint-venture distribution centre in China as a precursor for localizat ion of design and production in Asia.This joint-venture promotes multilateral exchanges with other economic actors within the network. Helping Ezra maintain a competitive advantage over competition by allowing for Ezra to assess their ‘STEP based on network insight to better standardize their market positioning. However, internal clashes can arise from a shift from a centralized to decentralized distribution business model. Also both organization can clash due to the rejection Of the partner-organization's underlying logic, objectives and business culture.Another potential solution is for Ezra to expand their e- commerce presence in Asia and America to gain competitive advantage, such as the growing market of e-commerce in America. This allows for Ezra to extend their reach to customers, and further gives them a competitive advantage over competitors such as who have yet to setup an e- commerce presence in Asia. This would also compliment the rapid expansion into the Asia regi on specifically targeted at India and China.However, this method would entail higher outbound shipment costs as individual items will have to be shipped from the central distribution center in Spain to the consumer in Asia or America. This leads to another potential solution on focusing on their existing supply chain competency in Europe to further expand e-commerce presence beyond the 8 countries that use a Ezra online store. This would utilize Sara's existing centralized supply chain in Europe to expand reach to the existing customer base.However, this would give Ezra little long term competitive advantages over competition as competitor brands can easily implement the same marketing approach. Ezra may also want to consider adopting an undifferentiated approach by expanding their basic line to further compete with a larger customer base as Unique have done with a large amount of success (exhibit 5). This solution however would to be a viable long term solution and has the possibil ity of affecting their overall brand perception if less fashionable items of clothing were being pushed to the consumer.Best Solution The best solution for Ezra would be to open a joint-venture distribution centre in China as a precursor to opening localized design and production facilities in Asia, this fits into Sara's objective to expand rapidly in a very competitive landscape (Exhibit 5). This is also consistent with their joint- venture with Data group in opening up Ezra stores in India with the potential for Network Insight. The overall issue to this solution is that Ezra will need to find a partner to form a joint venture with, this may also require exchanges with local economic actors in China to gain insight.China is a rapid growing market for Ezra with 71 stores opening in 4 years and on target to becoming Sara's 2nd largest market. Opening a distribution center in China entails the following; 1 . Network Insight for ‘STEP' Competitive advantage – Whilst openi ng a distribution centre in China itself is not a major competitive competency in comparison to R&M's localized distribution centers, by operating a joint- entire in China and through the recursive exchange in the joint-venture structure along with exchanges with other economic actors, this promotes multilateral exchanges which will lead to a realistic and better understanding of the market.This can be used by Ezra to help better periodically evaluate their ‘STEP' due to changes in consumer needs, this ensures maximized long term success and competitiveness by assessing actions against modern network insights 2. Reduced re-stock time – Currently the existing distribution model for Ezra means that they can only ship to 1 geographical region per ay. By including a distribution center in Asia, it means that stores within the growing market can be restocked much more effectively to better satisfy consumer needs 3.Allows the introduction of e-commerce in Asia -? with a distr ibution center in Asia, this allows for the possibility of establishing e- commerce in China ahead of Sara's competition. This can also be used to further gather consumer insight into preferences. By operating as a joint- venture, risks will be shared with the partner organization, not only this, but resources can be shared to achieve maximum efficiency. However, by opening a distribution center in China, it will start to dissolve the existing centralized structure that Ezra has created.But to expand overseas, Ezra cannot rely on company-centered extant knowledge for expansion and understanding of new customers, as seen through their existing differentiated positioning in Americas and Spain. Ezra must start to take a more decentralized approach in terms of global expansion. The notion of decentralization may come with hesitance from Ezra stakeholders due to Bonnet's failure with a decentralized business model, however as Ezra loud maintain and own a large stake in the joint venture, they would still maintain a large control.With greater network insight, this provides a pathway for Ezra to Open design and production facilities in Asia to improve operational efficiency in the long-term; 1 . Economies of Scale – despite the current centralized distribution model not effecting gross profit growth (exhibit 4), the rapid expansion into Asia can cause discomposes of scale through higher transportation costs. By having design and production local, this will reduce transportation costs to ship to Asian regions, this can Hereford be beneficial in further reducing Sara's carbon footprint and improving CARS 2.Efficient Amalgamation of Consumer Feedback – With rapid expansion, there will be greater consumer feedback. By opening up design and production in China, it allows for efficient and focused amalgamation of Asian consumer perceptions through having an established network insight. This will allow both faster response time to customer feedback and potenti al for exchange of designs between Asian and European markets to expand Sara's product portfolio. 3.Closer to Fabric Suppliers – Currently, Ezra arches fabric from their Hong Kong office, this office could be used to further utilize Asian suppliers to supply fabric for Asian production facilities, therefore reducing costs in importing fabric from overseas suppliers. Overall this solution aims to provide sustainability to Ezra for future growth in Asia. Application of Concepts From the available case study, we can see the 3 components of a Market; the suppliers, product and customer come into play.For suppliers, we can see that suppliers such as H and Inedited offer a large variety of product entries, whilst Fast Retailing offer product specialization and have a small reduce portfolio. However the most important component within this case is the customer aspect, due to the large influence that customers have on product portfolios of Inedited and H. Fast retailing unique has ad opted an undifferentiated approach by treating consumers as a homogeneous segment.Therefore they attempt to reach a large customer base through a single marketing strategy of offering a large variety of basics in a large array of colors. This is different to the approach made by and Inedited, who utilize a differentiated marketing approach. Inedited has multiple brands such s Ezra and Berserk utilizing different Segmentation, Targeting and Positioning. This similar concept is used by in which sub-brands are marketed to different segment groups.This therefore means that Inedited and H aim to have a full-market coverage by offering a wide variety of offerings to different segments. However, as Unique is the largest retailer to use a undifferentiated marketing approach, it has successfully differentiated itself from Inedited and Ezra by implementing product specialization, therefore Fast Retailing have benefited from rising revenue growth comparable to H and Inedited (Exhibit 5). Zara Case Study Despite the current centralized distribution model working well and at below capacity, continuous rapid expansion outside of Spain for Inedited brands (exhibit 8) would bring problems of; larger amalgamation of dispersed network pictures, rater demand and customization for Ezra offerings from consumers. This would further bring the effects of discomposes of scale; increased transportation costs, top heavy Organization, potentially exceeding working capacity, increased risk if central distribution centre fails.No standardized market position – Sara's expansion approach have led them to be positioned differently in each geographical market despite targeting the same consumer segment, Ezra currently use company-centered knowledge to determine price and positioning strategies for different geographical segments. This has caused inconsistent consumer perception of their brand e. . Americas and Spain. Being in a globalizes marketplace, this poses a problem to the global perception a nd position of the Ezra brand.Competitive Environment -? Ezra is competing in a competitive market where the competition are seeing similar growth in stock prices and revenue (Exhibit 3, Exhibit 5). Competitors such as have already achieved similar competencies to Ezra in terms of variety and stock refresh, and have obtained more advanced competencies such as localization of distribution centers, reducing the competitive advantage that Ezra has in terms of flexibility in their products array and enabling the threat f substitution.Other competitors such as Unique have further gained competitive advantage by differentiating themselves in the saturated market of fast retailing by using an undifferentiated marketing approach targeting a larger customer base, leading to a revenue growth rate greater than Ezra from 2009-2010 (Exhibit 5). Potential Solutions A potential solution for Ezra is the possibility of forming a joint-venture distribution centre in China as a precursor for localizat ion of design and production in Asia.This joint-venture promotes multilateral exchanges with other economic actors within the network. Helping Ezra maintain a competitive advantage over competition by allowing for Ezra to assess their ‘STEP based on network insight to better standardize their market positioning. However, internal clashes can arise from a shift from a centralized to decentralized distribution business model. Also both organization can clash due to the rejection Of the partner-organization's underlying logic, objectives and business culture.Another potential solution is for Ezra to expand their e- commerce presence in Asia and America to gain competitive advantage, such as the growing market of e-commerce in America. This allows for Ezra to extend their reach to customers, and further gives them a competitive advantage over competitors such as who have yet to setup an e- commerce presence in Asia. This would also compliment the rapid expansion into the Asia regi on specifically targeted at India and China.However, this method would entail higher outbound shipment costs as individual items will have to be shipped from the central distribution center in Spain to the consumer in Asia or America. This leads to another potential solution on focusing on their existing supply chain competency in Europe to further expand e-commerce presence beyond the 8 countries that use a Ezra online store. This would utilize Sara's existing centralized supply chain in Europe to expand reach to the existing customer base.However, this would give Ezra little long term competitive advantages over competition as competitor brands can easily implement the same marketing approach. Ezra may also want to consider adopting an undifferentiated approach by expanding their basic line to further compete with a larger customer base as Unique have done with a large amount of success (exhibit 5). This solution however would to be a viable long term solution and has the possibil ity of affecting their overall brand perception if less fashionable items of clothing were being pushed to the consumer.Best Solution The best solution for Ezra would be to open a joint-venture distribution centre in China as a precursor to opening localized design and production facilities in Asia, this fits into Sara's objective to expand rapidly in a very competitive landscape (Exhibit 5). This is also consistent with their joint- venture with Data group in opening up Ezra stores in India with the potential for Network Insight. The overall issue to this solution is that Ezra will need to find a partner to form a joint venture with, this may also require exchanges with local economic actors in China to gain insight.China is a rapid growing market for Ezra with 71 stores opening in 4 years and on target to becoming Sara's 2nd largest market. Opening a distribution center in China entails the following; 1 . Network Insight for ‘STEP' Competitive advantage – Whilst openi ng a distribution centre in China itself is not a major competitive competency in comparison to R&M's localized distribution centers, by operating a joint- entire in China and through the recursive exchange in the joint-venture structure along with exchanges with other economic actors, this promotes multilateral exchanges which will lead to a realistic and better understanding of the market.This can be used by Ezra to help better periodically evaluate their ‘STEP' due to changes in consumer needs, this ensures maximized long term success and competitiveness by assessing actions against modern network insights 2. Reduced re-stock time – Currently the existing distribution model for Ezra means that they can only ship to 1 geographical region per ay. By including a distribution center in Asia, it means that stores within the growing market can be restocked much more effectively to better satisfy consumer needs 3.Allows the introduction of e-commerce in Asia -? with a distr ibution center in Asia, this allows for the possibility of establishing e- commerce in China ahead of Sara's competition. This can also be used to further gather consumer insight into preferences. By operating as a joint- venture, risks will be shared with the partner organization, not only this, but resources can be shared to achieve maximum efficiency. However, by opening a distribution center in China, it will start to dissolve the existing centralized structure that Ezra has created.But to expand overseas, Ezra cannot rely on company-centered extant knowledge for expansion and understanding of new customers, as seen through their existing differentiated positioning in Americas and Spain. Ezra must start to take a more decentralized approach in terms of global expansion. The notion of decentralization may come with hesitance from Ezra stakeholders due to Bonnet's failure with a decentralized business model, however as Ezra loud maintain and own a large stake in the joint venture, they would still maintain a large control.With greater network insight, this provides a pathway for Ezra to Open design and production facilities in Asia to improve operational efficiency in the long-term; 1 . Economies of Scale – despite the current centralized distribution model not effecting gross profit growth (exhibit 4), the rapid expansion into Asia can cause discomposes of scale through higher transportation costs. By having design and production local, this will reduce transportation costs to ship to Asian regions, this can Hereford be beneficial in further reducing Sara's carbon footprint and improving CARS 2.Efficient Amalgamation of Consumer Feedback – With rapid expansion, there will be greater consumer feedback. By opening up design and production in China, it allows for efficient and focused amalgamation of Asian consumer perceptions through having an established network insight. This will allow both faster response time to customer feedback and potenti al for exchange of designs between Asian and European markets to expand Sara's product portfolio. 3.Closer to Fabric Suppliers – Currently, Ezra arches fabric from their Hong Kong office, this office could be used to further utilize Asian suppliers to supply fabric for Asian production facilities, therefore reducing costs in importing fabric from overseas suppliers. Overall this solution aims to provide sustainability to Ezra for future growth in Asia. Application of Concepts From the available case study, we can see the 3 components of a Market; the suppliers, product and customer come into play.For suppliers, we can see that suppliers such as H and Inedited offer a large variety of product entries, whilst Fast Retailing offer product specialization and have a small reduce portfolio. However the most important component within this case is the customer aspect, due to the large influence that customers have on product portfolios of Inedited and H. Fast retailing unique has ad opted an undifferentiated approach by treating consumers as a homogeneous segment.Therefore they attempt to reach a large customer base through a single marketing strategy of offering a large variety of basics in a large array of colors. This is different to the approach made by and Inedited, who utilize a differentiated marketing approach. Inedited has multiple brands such s Ezra and Berserk utilizing different Segmentation, Targeting and Positioning. This similar concept is used by in which sub-brands are marketed to different segment groups.This therefore means that Inedited and H aim to have a full-market coverage by offering a wide variety of offerings to different segments. However, as Unique is the largest retailer to use a undifferentiated marketing approach, it has successfully differentiated itself from Inedited and Ezra by implementing product specialization, therefore Fast Retailing have benefited from rising revenue growth comparable to H and Inedited (Exhibit 5). Zara Case Study MGMT 6620: Operations & SCM HBS Case Study Zara: IT for Fast Fashion 4/9/2013 1. What is the Zara â€Å"business model†? What weaknesses, if any, do you seen in this business model? The value propositions offered by Zara to its main customers who are young, fashion conscious city-dwellers is offering new styles within the time-frame of several weeks as well as providing assortment of choices for customers and the uniqueness of clothing styles fitting individual customer needs. To achieve this Zara’s business model had the following: 1.Incorporating the horizontal structure for placing orders and deciding which items to push aggressively by delegating decision making responsibilities to store managers; 2. Low volume production of any item and high inventory turnover, which secured better tracking of â€Å"hot† items, which can be sold well; 3. Reduction of losses on items which are not selling well- Company was eliminating inventory build-up by managing low invent ories and by their frequent updates company achieved high foot traffic in its stores and used the stores as focal points of its marketing campaigns.Weakness in Zara’s business model is that each store is highly dependent on decision making capabilities of store managers, which might cause the problem if many of them decide to leave. Moreover, since company relying on small shops scattered throughout Spain and Portugal for its production any economic downturn in those countries can cause the increase the cost of manufacturing or COGS. 2. In your opinion, what are the most important aspects of Zara’s approach to IT? Are these approaches applicable and appropriate anywhere? If not, where would they not work well?The Most important aspect of Zara’s approach to Information technology is the use of DOS-POS in its current store to track customers demand quickly, decentralize the company and provide customer with trendy clothing options. Yes these approaches are essenti ally applicable starting from production till distribution, but Zara’s current IT is outdated and needs to be upgraded from future sustainability point of view to network with various retailors and distribution centers. Zara could face challenges in longer run from operation front with new technology.Zara must keep upgrading them with the latest technology to beat the competitors that might cost high. New technology demands training on usage to employee that again involve cost. 3. Should the company build in-store networks? In our group’s opinion, Zara should build in-store networks. First of all, the store manager has difficulties in ordering without in-store networks. Aim of Zara is to provide its clothes quickly while the system which Zara currently has cannot reach this requirement.The store personnel could not look up their inventory through in-store computer; they need to talk to salespeople to determine the quantities, which is time-consuming. Secondly, for the fulfillment process, the level of the SKU is hard to determine without in-store networks. More importantly, if in-store networks would not be built, the infrastructure that Zara stores currently have cannot provide information among stores about the SKU. Store personnel have to use obsolete methods such as having telephone call or carrying disks to report the inventory or calculate the total sales.Last but not the least, the low cost wireless networks help and favor the building up of in-store networks. Zara, as a company, which has a promising future, should also update its network infrastructure, as its business scope will grow bigger. 4. How would you advise Salgado to proceed on upgrading Zara’s POS system? The POS terminals using DOS has been unchanged for over a decade, which made Zara difficult to manage the daily operation effectively. Upgrading Zara’s POS system would utilize the large screen, keyboard and mouse to quickly provide service to customers.It is ve ry important because time is money. Customers are now very busy with their daily schedule; faster service will attract more customers. Furthermore, the modern POS terminals would be able to execute more sophisticated capabilities such as sharing with other stores the inventory. This is essential for the company to manage the inventory and promote the brand network. It shows to the customers that Zara store is a global network and has the same value of providing the best service to customer anywhere. It will reduce the cost of phone call by using the communication inside the company’s online network.

People Management, the Mantra for success

Human resource management deals with the overall relationship of the employee with the organization (Cullen, 2011, p. 437). International human resources deal with the same settings but on an international scale. When organizations take on international business they face many challenges and barriers. Setting the bar and being prepared for the negative or having a back up plan enables businesses to function wholeheartedly. Adapting to the cultures nationally, professionally and socially creates aspects issues that need to be addressed when it comes to reaching success.The case at hand with Ravi Singhania and Manju Mohotra shares aspects of business and human resource management that they both took part in to ensure the success of the business: Singhania and Partners. Case Strategy Ravi Singhania is the founder and managing partner of Singhania and Partners. This was one of the largest full service National law firms in India (p 509). Singhania knew that he was going to be a lawyer an d his own firm since a young age. His most important reasons for success in business were the approach that the customer is king and the employees are the biggest assets (p.  510).He capitalized on the demand for legal services created by the liberalization of the Indian economy. In the beginning, a sizable amount of his clients came from overseas clients. This made an impact where he felt that in order to effectively serve clients and gain a competitive advantage, it would be valuable to establish an overseas office thus came the New York City location. With the conscious effort to create and adapt to the lifestyle and customs of America, Singhania interacted with various constituents.Through his interactions with other law firms, he became conversant with the Western style of legal services management, which also had a significant impact on his very own management style (p. 510). He became an expatriate employee in American and gained skills that broaden his own horizons and tho ughts for the betterment of his own company. The case doesn’t make reference to any compensation or family issues that Singhania may have encountered during this time; however the atmosphere of his organization was favorable in both family life and compensation.After being exposed to a different style of management and skills that he could replicate himself, Singhania then opened an office with Mohotra as partner with the assistance and support of his father. This office he opened in New Delhi, India where they didn’t have many competitors. With the partnership, Singhania and Mohotra took on separate and also equal duties to make the partnership work. Their partnership mostly resembled shared management structure and split control management. In the shared management structure, both partners contribute approximately the same number of managers to positions and functional areas (p.  356).In this case, there were only two. The split control structure is similar to the shared management structure in that the partners usually share in strategic decision-making (p. 356). However at a functional level, partners make decisions independently (p. 356). Singhania managed the company legal services aspects while Mohotra took responsibility in managing the overall business and assignment of personnel to various projects based on their competencies and availability. They both handled the marketing activities. Commitment and trust between the two to make the alliance work was great synergy.They both were committed to seeing this thru, consulting one another and ensuring that their employees and customers were happy along the way. The strategy of Singhania and Partners was to foster and create an atmosphere that was healthy and vibrant for employees who would spill this over to clients whom in return would spread to others in form of referrals. Since during this time advertising in India as strictly remanded to the Yellow pages, word of mouth referrals played a big part in their business success. India was a prime spot for outsourcing which opened new avenues for Indian legal professionals.Taking part in legal process outsourcing and focusing on high quality legal workforce helped expand and open doors for the organization. Their growth strategy for the most part was to begin with low value services and gradually move up the value chain by acquiring and exhibiting domain expertise. In doing so, they hired a litigation lawyer in preparation to enter the litigation arena one day, which came soon with Daewoo as a client. This made it possible for the company to move to a larger office and also setup 3 additional offices.They formed affiliations with counsels across several Indian states in order to meet its’ clients needs to interact with one for legal services across the country. This strategy helped the company to grow from 2 lawyers to over 50 lawyers with 8 of them who made partners. IHRM PRACTICES Indian legal services industry had been booming since the countries economic liberalization in the 1990s’ (p. 509). The exponential growth of this industry was accompanied by an acute talent crunch, the ability to hire and retain talent, which became the source of competitive advantage, a mantra for success (p.  509).Law firms’ key capability was the skill, knowledge and capacity of their employees (p. 509). Effective Human Resource management was essential for law firms due to the increasingly competitive labor market required to develop creative approaches to the recruitment and reward of employees. International Human resource Management practices take form in recruitment and selection, training for cross-cultural adaptation, management development effects of international assignments, evaluation and compensation.Singhania and Partners made shire that their organization was a place that had all these principles in order when it came to their employees. Compensation was above average at the com pany for employees. When it came to other firms in the area, their pay scale ranked high. Not only was pay considered, but also company funded events like annual retreat for the employees. Evaluation of the employees brought on growth in their career. They believed in promoting form within according to Merit based system.If someone had the skills and knowledge and displayed them they would be able to benefit when the time was right. Management development effects of international assignments can pose many challenges for managers. In polycentric and regiocentric multinationals, they place hoe country nationals in top-level management or technical positions (p. 463). These home country managers are used to control overseas operations or to transfer technology to host country production sites (p. 463). Singhania displayed this when he opened an office in New York City, New Delhi, and then three additional cities.This shows signs of growth and stability for the company. Training for cro ss-cultural adaptation took place when Singhania went to New York and opened office. During this time he had to gain knowledge of how to adapt and deal with other cultures and nationalities that he was use to. This enabled him to have a broader vision as a global businessman. Mostly Mohotra alone handled the recruitment and selection process. However in order to be able to benefit from the great compensation plan and stress free environment, one had to have extensive knowledge and expertise.Singhania and partners strived to employ and have nothing but the best. They were very selective because their reputation was all they had that would keep them vibrant. One bad experience could ruin them for sure. Retaining employees by keeping them in an intellectually stimulated environment was key. The organization displayed and encouraged motivation, great opportunity to learn, build confidence, and grow within the organization. IMPROVEMENTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS Companies can always use room f or growth, change and improvements in all areas.Singhania and Mohotra discussed that as they reviewed the business and its progress in all areas. Like all alliances the partners must be able to sit down and review, and resolve any issues or conflicts while evaluate if the partnership is still vibrant for both parties. In this aspect thus far, even with the risk of outsourcing at a risky time, they still seemed to be doing well. One area that I would suggest be improved on is the management development. I think the employees would benefit by being offered more training skills, communication and legal courses and on the job training.The areas that are being outsourced can be additional revenue for the company if they had individuals within that were able to handle them. This would cut cost and some liability. Not only would that benefit the company and the employees but also the clients. They have already built a bond with the organization and its personnel, so why have to shuffle off portions of the work to somewhere or someone else that may not have the same theories on customer service as Singhania and Partners.Since bulk of the business comes from referrals and yellow pages, I think having in-house  employees for outsourced jobs would be beneficial to all involved. This is how I feel the change will also impact the industry and the organization. Management is able to successfully improve the current strategy but focusing on the goals of the clients, society and technological changes that may arise. As clients grew and needed a larger variety of services, Singhania and partners offered more expertise. To also meet the stress free environment, which makes for happier employees, they often overstaff projects so that employees are not overworked and have time for family.Focusing on growth strategies for the organization as far as clients, while retaining the employees they have will be key. Making other liaisons across other countries like America, China, or e ven South America would also be useful. Branching off into other societies and cultures, not only would be moving for the organization but also for the employees. It would give some expatriate employees a chance to return home, some a chance to learn and experience something new while climbing the ladder of success.

Discuss the value of having a strong corporate brand for an Essay

Discuss the value of having a strong corporate brand for an organisation - McDonalds - Essay Example (McDonalds Corporation, 2008; Brand Republic, 2002) For this study, the student will first define the true meaning of brand followed by the basic information related to the establishment of a brand. After discussing how McDonald’s have been managing its corporate brand over the years, the student will examine the importance of branding within the hospitality industry. Prior to the conclusion, the student will enumerate the benefits attached with having a strong brand on the part of McDonald’s and its consumers. Brand is defined as the â€Å"name, term, sign, symbol, design, or a combination of these† (Kotler, 2000: 404) such as the yellow coloured ‘M’ sign of McDonald’s. Basically, the main purpose of a brand name is to enable the consumers to identify the products or services of one company from a similar product that is being offered by other companies. Aside from using a simple brand name, it is also possible for McDonald’s to have a brand extension such as in the case of ‘McDonald’s Happy Meal’ or ‘McDonald’s land or playplace’ used in targeting children (Gidman, 2008; Roberto & Roberto, 2004) offered by the company; (2) the physical and emotional benefits the consumers get out of patronizing the company’s product and services; (3) the values of the company in terms of its capability to render a high quality product to its target consumers; (4) the corporate culture such as being organized in terms of delivering its services to the public; and (5) the kind of consumers that patronizes the products and services offered by the company. (Aaker, 1997; Kapferer, 1992: 38) There are many ways on how to establish a brand. Marketing managers or a company owner(s) has the option to use the founder’s name(s), location, the quality of a product, the lifestyle of a company’s target market, an artificial name, a culture or a heritage. (Urde et al., 2007;

Safety program Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Safety program - Essay Example Four major aspects that Plant XYZ manufactures safety action plan will take into consideration includes creating a change, safety and health payoffs, management system and S& H integration as well as doing a safety and health check up. As indicated by the Plant XYZ 1998 estimated direct and indirect costs, the company incurred $984,000 in the first four months. This figure is high and therefore this action plan is focused at putting in place effective measure to enable the company attain the OSHA VPP Star Certification in 2 years in addition to reducing incidents rates by 50%. Commitment by managers The first step that I will include in my action plan as the safety manager is to ensure that manager’s commitment towards safety is maintained. It is worth to note that the safety committee is keen on maintaining safety responsibilities. As a safety manager my main role will to first understand why accidents occur within the company premises and how the safety committee dealt with past cases of accidents. This will be followed by studying all the minutes of the meetings held by safety committee prior to my appointment. To ensure that all the employees are conversant with the safety policy, my action plan will entail establishing safety rules that will be presented to safety committee in 2 weeks time.

Literary Exercise Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Literary Exercise - Assignment Example Here is the message that goes in favor of internet advertising. â€Å"The idea is based on consumers themselves taking the initiative by showing up voluntarily and interacting with what they find online.†(Internet†¦) This is an important gain and the seller has won the first round of the exercise, by arresting the considered attention of the customer. Online advertising is helpful to create a brand and to sustain the merits of the branded products. Quality of the product and the performance- based market go to solidify the foundation of the branded products. Not all products are suitable for online advertising. Some products like mortgages, cars etc. can exclusively sell through online marketing as the individual intent on purchasing will make the detailed shopping search through a search engine to judge the merits of several competing products. With online advertising and marketing one develops the type of intimacy which is not possible through the exposure in the established mass media. In the former case, the connection is more personal and in the latter case it is impersonal. Mere presence of online advertisements and messages leaves an imprint in the minds of the customers and the companies get better returns on their advertising budgets as compared to print and electronic media. Louisa Ha (2008) in article, â€Å"Online Advertising Research in Advertising Journals: A Review,† writes, â€Å"†¦. [suggests) five advantages of online advertising: 1) Awareness efficiency 2) easy to locate, 3) contact efficiency 4) conversion efficiency and 5) retention efficiency. Advertising influences sales in a peculiar style as the relationship between advertisements and revenues is a two-way traffic. The companies decide their budget on the basis of a fixed percentage of sales, which means, the more is the willingness of the company to spend on advertisement, when

Undertaking the Analysis of a House and a Unit Essay - 1

Undertaking the Analysis of a House and a Unit - Essay Example Clayton is located at the middle of Liverpool City Centre. The house consists of three bedrooms, two bathrooms, and has got a garage and is pet friendly as the unit discussed above. The furniture is not sold together with the house and the person interested should incur extra costs to buy furniture or to pay for those which he or she will get in the house. Anyone wishing to rent the house should as well pay the house deposit together with the rent for the month of entry into the house. The house is spacious and comfortable and is close to the Clayton Station as it takes less than five minutes to reach the station from the house (Jeanette, 2012). There are essentials which have to be considered when it comes to the inspection of a house or a unit that one may want to purchase or rent. Some of them are the details of how the house has been constructed or built, the coverings of the floor and the walls, and finally the convenience of the house setting. However, the process of inspection starts with inspecting the overall appearance of the house or the unit. This means that a person has to identify the location of the house, whether the location is strategic and safe. One has to look at the houses of similar or almost the same age so as to see the difference or the similarity that these houses have. This will help in determining the best kind of houses and that which is according to the standards that one wants to buy or rent from. The general inspection of the house will help the client come up with an idea of how they can be come up with ways of ensuring cleanliness and tidiness within and outside the house (Koulizos, 2012). After the inspection has been done on the nature of the hose and the unit, the client would look at the exterior front of that particular house. This is done in order to have a complete view of the house on each face of that house. This will help in

What does it mean to say a school is doing well Essay

What does it mean to say a school is doing well - Essay Example The awareness and importance of laws and regulations to be followed can only be developed in the early learning phases; hence, it is unjustified to ignore these important areas in the core policy making of educational systems (Eisner 2001). The rationalization of education system is the concept, which according to the research and my personal opinion, forms the basis of a powerful and knowledgeable future generation. The rationalization approach mainly focuses on the consequences of any educational activity. The future or goal oriented approach to education is simply a move towards a better learning environment and future outcomes. The use of the standard educational system cannot be classified as completely irrelevant to the future development or useless but the rationalized system obviously tends to be more fruitful. The goal oriented approach to education leads to a better system where education is seen as a ways of achieving goals. The schools need to be provided with clear under standing of what is expected of them rather than what is expected of the students in the future. The clear indication of the outcomes of the system, policies and instructions simply direct a person, an institution or a system towards a known goal. The achievement of those goals also motivates the people involved and help in maintaining the pace of achievements in the future. The rationalization approach is not a generalized assumption of achieving goals, but it rather provides a target-setting approach which helps in the measurement of the outcomes achieved (Eisner 2006). The targets in the educational system need to be realistic and measurable. However, the...Nowadays, the educational systems are criticized for the lack of coherency, completeness and measurability of the outcomes. This paper aims to support a reform in terms of educational systems and supports the rationalization of educational system to increase the credibility of the learnt concepts and their practical advantages being enjoyed by the larger society. It would revolve around the basic concepts that a school really requires so that it can be said that it is going well (Eisner 2001; Karen 2006). The educational systems are basically aimed at providing conceptual and theoretical knowledge to the students. These students are hence, equipped with theories, knowledge and power to use that knowledge. But this only what we expect of the educational environments and systems. The reality, however, is sometimes different. The lack of supervision on the students and the educational institutes give rise to newer and more complex problems. The students are often found to be guilty of breaking the rules of the school like rules on plagiarism, attendance, assignment submission, copying, bribery and so on. Those these appear to be a few general issues yet the implications of these issues are devastating. The recommendations of standardized testing and rationality should be analyzed as they do not form a part of the performance of school.

Systems Analyst Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Systems Analyst - Essay Example He is the person in charge of and responsible for designing the novel system and applications to be used in meeting the objectives of the business (Shelly 2012, 43). In several organizations, the system analyst does the actual coding of proposed applications for the enterprise. He implements the designs proposed and supervises their operations towards achieving the business goals. In order to perform the demanding tasks effectively, a system analyst is required to possess various skills. Foremost, the analyst needs a wide knowledge of the enterprise he works for. He should have a profound familiarity of how the business operates. In addition, it is fundamental to have a superior comprehension of how businesses in the field operate; particularly competitors. He should have good interpersonal skills in order to enable him get information he requires for viable systems. All the information an analyst requires are fished from colleagues and other stakeholders. In order to get reliable information, he must be able to create a good rapport and correlate with others. Finally, a system analyst must have a reputable ability to solve problems (Shelly 2012, 32). He should be able to think quickly to solve challenging situations and find alternatives to dilemmas. Most important, an analyst must have a deep understanding of changes in the ICT world. He should be able to a dapt easily to the dynamics of the technological field and remain

Experimental economic summary paper Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Experimental economic summary paper - Essay Example 25 per cent of the non-economists called â€Å"all of the endowment† as fair investment whereas 75 per cent of them considered it to be â€Å"half or more† of the donation. The behavior of economics students was significantly different. To public account, they offered no more than 20 per cent of the donation. All non-economists said that they valued â€Å"fairness† in deciding about the investment whereas most of the economics students did not know what â€Å"fairness† is. Likewise, Carter and Irons (1991) who compared the behavior of economists and non-economists using an ultimatum bargaining game, found economists to be more complying with the characteristics of the self-interest model in the roles of both the allocator and the receiver than their non-economics counterparts. The charitable giving survey and results of the prisoner’s dilemma also supported the opinion that the likelihood of free riding is more profound in economists than non-econom ists.

Aphasia and Grammar Paper Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Aphasia and Grammar Paper - Essay Example The fact that we do not lose language by damage to our vocal chords is proof that language is a function that originates from the brain. Language is such an integral part of our lives yet we take words and their systematic arrangement in a sentence, grammar, for granted until we lose the ability to speak coherent grammatically correct sentences. This condition or disorder is called Aphasia. Damage to our vocal chords only limits our sounds and expression of the language but in the case of Aphasia the main centre in the brain that is linked with our linguistic ability gets damaged. This can happen when our brain is unable to communicate within its cortex walls to send the right signals to the sensory organs effectively to create the sound, deliver the words in the right arrangement and form a coherent language? Simply put, Aphasia is a disorder, which damages the parts of the brain that are responsible for language, as we know it. Typically a person with Aphasia loses the ability to s peak coherently or form grammatically coherent sentences. In other words, grammar is lost to the person with Aphasia. The disorder can happen to anyone or any age group and is usually the result of a stroke or damage to the brain. Most people with Aphasia have been known to regain their language skills through intense therapy by way of reacquainting their brain with language skills. In that case, it leaves us with the following questions. When a person gets Aphasia 1. Where does the grammar go? 2. How is it able to resurface suddenly? This article hopes to examine Aphasia and find some answers to the above questions. Where does the grammar go during Aphasia? To understand this point we need to go a bit in detail into the condition itself from a physiological point of view. Language is a function that is predominantly controlled by the left hemisphere of the brain. The left hemisphere as we all know controls the right side of the body and is also responsible for abstract reasoning an d anything that involves a systematic progression. This linear model of progression is the basis of language, which is a composite of words and sounds. Therefore a blow, stroke or damage to the left hemisphere can cause language disability or Aphasia. But the brain is a complex organ and this same language centre, and the consequent Aphasia is divided into two sections in the frontal and posterior regions of the left cerebral cortex, named after the neurologists who identified them. They are Broca’s Aphasia after Paul Broca and as Wernicke’s Aphasia after Carl Wernicke respectively. To explain in very simple terms, Broca’s region is the one that is involved with structural format or grammatical reasoning while Wernicke region is like a storehouse of words, like nouns and verb as well as phrases and composite words derived from familiar objects and have thus formed by association with Broca’s region. Grammar is the structural format that is the basis of se ntences, phrases and composite formations. Therefore it is important for Broca’s and Wernicke’s regions to connect. It has been found that they are intricately connected by some specific neurons. When this connection gets severed or if there is damage to either one of the regions, Aphasia occurs. Let us examine how this damage actually brings about the loss of grammar. In the case of Broca’

Explain Utilitarianism Essay Example for Free

Explain Utilitarianism Essay Utilitarianism was developed in the 18th century by Hutcheson, who used the phrase ‘the greatest good for the greatest number’ to describe his theory. Hutcheson’s idea, seeks to find a rational means of assessing how best to put this promotion of happiness into practice. It is split into two types; Act Utilitarianism, this is the earliest form in which what is deemed right is based on the assessment of results of a particular action, and Rule Utilitarianism which allows to be taken into account the general benefit to society that occurs when people follow general rules. It is argued that utilitarianism is a relativist, consequentialist and teleological system of ethics, prescribing no fixed moral rules and judging an action by its consequences or end results. Bentham and Mill each argued respectively for these types of Utilitarianism and thus their beliefs differ. Bentham was born in London at time of huge scientific and social change. He looked to produce a modernised approach to morality which would suit the changing society of the industrial age he grew up in. This was also the era of the French and American revolutions. He argued that humans were motivated by pleasure and pain â€Å"nature has placed mankind under the governance of two sovereign masters, pleasure and pain†. This later on became known as Act Utilitarianism. Bentham believed that everyone had an equal right to happiness irrespective of their situation or status in life and argued that everyone counted equally in the assessment of the benefits of an action. He believed that overall, this would benefit the individual who did so and this would lead to that persons greatest happiness as well. His theory is democratic as pleasure cannot be for one person alone. Bentham’s Hedonic Calculus this is what Bentham thought was an empirical process for making moral decisions, it weighs up the pain and pleasure generated by the available moral actions to find the best option. It asks you to consider seven points: 1. Purity (an act that causes only pleasure is better than one that causes the same amount of pleasure mixed with a little pain. When either pleasure or pain is at its extremes it is more pure however when mixed its purity is less. ) 2. Remoteness (the more distant the benefits, in either space or time, the less weight we should give them in making our decision. For example how long will it take for the pleasure of the action to take effect. ) 3. Intensity (the less intense the pleasure of an action the less valuable that action is. However, if the action leads to intense pleasure then its value goes way up. ) 4. Certainty (the certainty criteria refers to the probability of the pleasure resulting from the act. So basically how likely a certain action will cause a cause a certain action. If you have to choose between an action which might cause pleasure and one that will definately cause the disired pealsure then you go with that action. ) 5. Extent (The more people enjoy the pleasure, the better. This was not among the original criteria described by Bentham, but was added by John Stuart Mill. ) 6. Duration (the duration of the pleasure caused by an act must also be taken into account when assessing the goodness of the act. Short bursts of pleasure or short lasting pleasure is viewed as less valuable than lasting pleasure. So acts which last for long periods of time are preferred to those which are short lasting. ) 7. Consequence (The consequence of an act is the likelihood that the pleasures or pains that it causes will be followed by similar pleasures or pains. If the happiness that an act causes is likely to be followed by more happiness, then that act is better than a similar act that will cause only one instance of happiness. It is basically how many times the pain or pleasure will occur.) For example if five guards were enjoying torturing one prisoner the hedonic calculus would suggest that this is ok because more pleasure is occurring than pain. If the probable pain of an action outweighs its pleasure then Bentham says that it is morally wrong. He believed this was the way of calculating happiness as a result of the course of an action and by this he was making the basis of deciding whether an action should be considered right or wrong. However going back to the guard’s example, is beating up a prisoner morally right because more people are enjoying it than feeling pain from it? During the 19th century Mill changed Bentham’s theory, Bentham implied any pleasure is of equal value â€Å"pushpin is equal to poetry† whereas Mill saw pleasures as higher and lower. He recognised that it was easier to settle for the more immediate and sensual pleasures like eating or drinking rather than the nobler and perhaps more refined ones such as poetry or opera. Mill criticised Bentham for focusing morality on pleasure alone, which seemed rather base to him. Therefore he decided to introduce a theory of utilitarianism for everyone, this replaced pleasure with happiness. He believed in quality not quantity of happiness. For Mill, happiness was defined as something which is cultured and spiritual than just physical. He distinguished this as higher and lower pleasures. He wrote â€Å"it is better to be a human being dissatisfied, than a pig satisfied† Mill recognised that there were different ways of assessing the value of happiness. Mill unlike Bentham suggested a positive place for rules within an overall utilitarianist approach. Another difference between Bentham and Mill lies in the difference between Act and Rule theories of utilitarianism. Bentham thought each individual action should be treated separately without any rules to guide the individual; whereas Mill proposed that you should make rules based on the consequences which tend to follow certain actions. For example killing someone tends to cause pain, so we should have a rule against killing people. Therefore Mill and Bentham arrived to two very different approaches of morality. Mills outlook was very different to that of Bentham’s. Overall, however their weaknesses outweigh their strengths. They are not very convincing as ethical systems, and it is my opinion that some other approach to ethics is required in order to do the morally right thing. An advantage of Bentham’s Act Utilitarianism is that it considers the consequences and happiness which result from actions; this seems a sensible approach to ethics. The theory is also flexible and easy to apply; it does not describe many confusing or difficult rules and provides a simple method for decision making. The theory also enables difficult decision making through its relativism. For example it would allow us to sacrifice individuals if it is of great benefit to society. The problem with Bentham’s theory however is that it is truly relativistic, so any conceivable action could be allowed for example, killing prisoners because five guards get pleasure from it. It also justifies the suffering of the innocent under a majority. It further allows cruel or sadistic pleasure, since Bentham regarded all pleasure as equal, this was first thought of by a philosopher called Bernard Williams. Mill’s theory offers many advantages which get around the problems of Bentham and Act Utilitarianism. By distinguishing between the quality of pleasures, Mill rules out the possibility of sadism like in the case of the prison guards enjoying torturing a prisoner. Also, Mill is stating that certain actions are explicitly prohibited because they tend to promote pain. So, he would not allow killing, no matter how much it was enjoyed. However, Mill’s theory lacks the flexibility of Bentham’s, which means that sensible rule breaking is no longer possible. For example you could not tell small lies, even to protect others. There is another weakness in Mill’s idea of different qualities of pleasure this is, how can we judge what makes pleasure higher or lower? As surely this is a subjective matter, as opinions and preferences vary from person to person. It might also be argued that the concept of a competent judge is vague, since it is not clear whether we can really identify one. In conclusion, the theories put forward by Bentham and Mill fail to provide a convincing or useful approach to ethics. On the one hand, Bentham’s views are strikingly relativistic, allowing any pleasure. On the other hand, Mill’s Rule system lacks the flexibility to make sensible choices in difficult situations. It may be that some other and more modern version of the theory can overcome these problems, such as preference utilitarianism put forward by Peter Singer. Preference utilitarianism bases itself on the idea used in act utilitarianism, that the principle of utility is the most important basis of moral decision making. This principle is about maximising pleasure and preventing pain. Preference utilitarianism retains this but simply modifies it to be subjective, that peoples preferences should be maximised not pleasure over pain. This is a simple way to be personal, allowing everyone their own say rather than presuming pleasure is always desirable. For example eating 30 bars of chocolate when obese may not cause pleasure as it is worsening their obesity however it is the persons preference to do this. If we could strike a balance between favouring firm moral principles and paying attention to significant consequences or the all-round wellbeing of society. Such a compromise offers a more promising approach to ethics than the classical forms of Utilitarianism put forward by Mill and Bentham.

Swot Analysis Is Use For Strategic Planning Marketing Essay

Swot Analysis Is Use For Strategic Planning Marketing Essay Introduction In a business world the strategic planning is necessary for running organisation successfully and meet their objective as well. The strategic planning is done in numerous way, all are beneficial for the business. For this such an analysis is need to done in organisation such as, SWOT analysis, PEST analysis, etc. Such an analysis is done within the organisation and some of the analysis is done in outside of the organisation. As in SWOT analysis the strengths and weakness is the analysis which made inside in organisation and opportunities and threats are the analysis of outside the organisation. In this report major part is shown on SWOT analysis. The company is taken as example is General Electric. This report shows the SWOT analysis performance on General Electric. The advantages and limitation of General Electric during SWOT analysis is also shown in this report. SWOT Analysis In the business and organisation for all sorts of situations the SWOT analysis is the useful tool as an unusually for caring and administrative. SWOT is a short form for Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats. A good framework is provided by the headings of SWOT analysis for re-evaluate direction, position and strategy of a business or industry plan, or any other idea. It is so simple to complete a SWOT analysis, and for the workshop sitting it is an excellent subject. This SWOT analysis is also works well in brainstorming convention. SWOT analysis is use for strategic planning, marketing, competitor evaluation, business planning, product development and research and business reports. The SWOT analysis is also use as games of team building exercises. A SWOT analysis measures a business unit, a proposition or idea. A SWOT analysis is a subjective assessment of data which are organized by the SWOT format into a logical order that helps understanding, presentation, discussion and decision-making. The four dimensions are useful extension of a basic two heading list of pros and cons. SWOT analysis can be used for all sorts of decision-making, and the SWOT template enables proactive thinking, rather than relying on habitual or instinctive reactions. The SWOT analysis template is normally presented as a grid, comprising four sections, one for each of the SWOT headings: Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats. The free SWOT template below includes sample questions, whose answers are inserted into the relevant section of the SWOT grid. The questions are examples, or discussion points, and obviously can be altered depending on the subject of the SWOT analysis. Note that many of the SWOT questions are also talking points for other headings use them as you find most helpful, and make up your own to suit the issue being analysed. It is important to identify clearly the subject of a SWOT analysis, because a SWOT analysis is a perspective of one thing, be it a company, a product, a proposition, and idea, a method, or option, etc. SWOT issues into actions under the six categories Albert Humphrey advocated that the six categories: Product (what are we selling?) Process (how are we selling it?) Customer (to whom are we selling it?) Distribution (how does it reach them?) Finance (what are the prices, costs and investments?) Administration (and how do we manage all this?) Provide a framework by which SWOT issues can be developed into actions and managed using teams. This can be something of a leap, and so the stage warrants further explanation. Translating the SWOT issues into actions, are best sorted into (or if necessary broken down into) the six categories, because in the context of the way that business and organisations work, this makes them more quantifiable and measurable, responsible teams more accountable, and therefore the activities more manageable. The other pivotal part in the process is of course achieving the commitment from the team(s) involved, which is partly explained in the item summarising Humphreys TAM ® model and process. As far as identifying actions from SWOT issues is concerned, it all very much depends on your reasons and aims for using SWOT, and also your authority/ability to manage others, whom by implication of SWOTs breadth and depth, is likely to be involved in the agreement and delivery of actions. Depending on pretext and situation, a SWOT analysis can produce issues which very readily translate into (one of the six) category actions, or a SWOT analysis can produce issues which overlay a number of categories or a mixture. Whatever, SWOT essentially tells you what is good and bad about a business or a particular proposition. If its a business, and the aim is to improve it, then work on translating: Strength (maintains, build and leverage), Opportunities (Prioritise and optimise), Weakness (remedy or exit), Threats (counter) Into actions (each within one of the six categories) that can be agreed and owned by a team or number of teams. If the SWOT analysis is being used to assess a proposition, then it could be that the analysis shows that the proposition is too weak (especially if compared with other SWOTs for alternative propositions) to warrant further investment, in which case further action planning, other than exit, is not required. This is my understanding of Albert Humphreys theory relating to developing SWOT issues into organisational change actions and accountabilities. (Im pleased to say that Albert kindly confirmed that this is indeed correct.) There are other ways of applying SWOT of course, depending on your circumstances and aims, for instance if concentrating on a department rather than a whole business, then it could make sense to revise the six categories to reflect the functional parts of the department, or whatever will enable the issues to be translatable into manageable, accountable and owned aims. Simple framework of SWOT analysis is a generating strategic alternative from a situation analysis. This analysis is either applicable to the business unit level or corporate level and in marketing plans it appears frequently. The Council of General Electric Growth used this analysis form because it concentrate on the issue that potentially have the most collision, when there is a limited time amount is available for addressing a complex strategic situation the SWOT analysis is useful. The diagram of SWOT analysis and how it fits into situation of strategic analysis is shown below. Situation Analysis   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚     / Internal Analysis  Ã‚  Ã‚   /   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Strengths  Ã‚  Ã‚  Weaknesses  Ã‚  Ã‚   The large amount of information can produced by the internal and external situation analysis, among them may not be highly relevant. To reduce the information to a convenient amount of key issue the analysis of SWOT can serve as an interpretative filter. The SWOT analysis classifies the internal aspects of the company as strengths or weaknesses and the external situational factors as opportunities or threats. Strengths can serve as a foundation for building a competitive advantage, and weaknesses may hinder it. By understanding these four aspects of its situation, a firm can better leverage its strengths, correct its weaknesses, capitalize on golden opportunities, and deter potentially devastating threats. General Electric (GE) is a manufacturing company functioning in a range of section. For use in wind turbines, aircraft, water systems, natural gas and oil compressors and more, its infrastructure section produces jet engines and related parts. To end users it is various financial services is offered by the Commercial Finance segment. Financial services to the retailers and consumers are provided by the GE Money section. Equipment which use in medical field is manufactured by the Healthcare section and the television network services is provided by its NBC Universal section. The Industrial section offers lamps, commercial lighting systems, home appliances, motor and control systems and many others. Internal Analysis For internal analysis we can say that it is a complete assessment of the internal environments prospective weaknesses and strengths. Across the organisation it should be appraising such factors in areas such as: Company image Organisational structure Key staff Brand awareness Access to natural resources Company culture Operational capacity Exclusive contracts Operational efficiency Financial resources Position on the experience curve Patents and trade secrets Market share As a list of weakness and strengths it is review the inner factors by the SWOT analysis. External Analysis To make better profits it is the ability to set up service or a new product which this is known as an opportunity. When changes happen in the external environment then opportunities can occur. These numerous changes can be apparent as threats to the market position of running goods and may require a change in creation provision or the expansion of new goods in order for the firm to stay competitive. The external environment changes may be associated to: Competitors Customers Suppliers Market trends Partners As a list of threats and opportunities the external factors of environmental is analysed and summarized by SWOT analysis. Strengths The positive essentials of an organisation or business are their strengths, it is in under their control and they do something well. The strengths are valued to the business or a group, and it can give the edge over the competitors in some areas. The main strengths of GE is outline below. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ The major plus point of General Electric is having alliances with other strong and popular businesses. It helps GE to get in new customers and make company further successful. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ The key to their success for General Electric is to being as a market leader, is as it improve status, market share and earnings. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ General Electric provide and offered original and good products and services, to obtain them General Electrical make most people return to them. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ The main key of General Electric is their most experienced employees which help GE to drive them forward with capability and knowledge. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ The other strength of General Electric is its high class machinery, well known staff, good infrastructure offices and equipment. It ensures the job is done to the greatest standard. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Regarding profit and sales the General Electric major strength is its wide customer base. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ The reputation of General Electric is powerfully popular, which means people believe in it and it is viewed with the respect. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ General Electric being strong as financial, this helps them to deal and solve any problems which arise. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ General Electrics essential strength is its strong brand as it is appreciated and accepted. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ General Electric has the market share with high percentage, which means GE is to the lead of numerous competitors. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ To ensure that the customers be returns, General Electric have high quality services and/or products as a fundamental strength. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ International operations of GE signify customers base wider, a stronger brand and a greater large piece of the international market. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ General Electrics innovation and development are high with observe to their services and/or products. It is the strength of its overall performance. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ General Electric has a high and strong market position. This is the major strength in this type of industrial area as they are in front of numerous rivals. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ GE is in front of numerous competitors as their online presence is strong. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ GEs Research and development department is strong. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Number of business acquired by GE. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ GEs profits and revenues are high. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Its culture and organisational structure is strong. Weaknesses Under their control as organisation or business, their weaknesses are the things which need to be performed better or to be improved. Weaknesses makes the company in behind with the competitors or may be it stop company to meet their objectives. In this section it is shown the weakness which present in General Electric à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ The performance of General Electric is not mark able in Asian market. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ General Electrical is did not keep and not meet with demand because they have a stock problem. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Due to the financial recession the stock prices is low. Opportunities Opportunities are the external changes which trends or needs that could improve the company or organisations tactical place, or which could be of a gain to them. The opportunities of the General Electric are shown below. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ As in the form of training, allowances, grants etc. as governmental support General Electric could benefit from it. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ An opportunity of technological changes gives the General Electric to strengthen their future achievement. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ It is used to acquire new resources, enter in new market and new customers as the merger and takeover opportunities could be discover for General Electric à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Towards the corporate social responsibility GE should have to focus more. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ To maintain their position in the market research and development is done. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ To improve cash flows they have opportunity to merge and joint venture in Asian market. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ They have the opportunity of look at natural resources to meet their high demands. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ It is positive sign for the General Electric as growth in aviation industry. Threats The factor which place areas of the organisation or company risky or may contain damage is called as threats. These factors are outside of the companys control. The main threats of the General Electric are outline below. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ It require spent the money on regulations or taken the measure which could put pressure on General Electric as financial or other. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ It is to be a threat or risk for General Electric as entering of the new competitors in the market and extra competition. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Price cuts could reduce the profits for General Electric as the price wars between competitors. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ As fluctuation of currency it may impact on the revenues as General electric is operating in many countries. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ As the other business the same threats of GE is recession. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ The biggest threat of the General Electric is the regulation of government because in all over the world GE is the fourth major manufacturer of pollution. Analysis and Benefits of SWOT Analysis It is well-known that General Electric has several strengths that effort to its gain by striking efficiency.   Its worldwide appreciation, competitiveness and strengths put General Electrical at a constructive situation as compared to other businesses in the similar sector.   To manage the expensive business the use of company units for organisation presents an successful way. The option of irresistible senior management through work is not only reduces but it also promotes production rooted in liability accepted from the company division managers.   It extremely contributes to effectiveness while there are many activities undertaken by company.   This is improved with the acquisitions and mergers that have spread the companys manufactured goods range and in sequence foremost to development on returns gain. However the opportunities and strengths have not arrived without constraints.   Different weakness and threats intimidate the concert of the business by presenting constraints on the organisations management.   High levels of rivalry, threat of information loss and financial crises are a threat to the companys endurance.   Weaknesses within the business counting the deprived efficiency of the power division and suppleness threat could collision unhelpfully on the business. The corporation could use the opportunities and strengths to moderate them, in order to decrease the collision of threats and weaknesses.    Multiple Perspectives Needed The quality of the analysis is affected by the method which is used to obtain the inputs to the SWOT matrix. During a speedy discussion with the CEO if the information is obtain hurriedly, although CEO may have a broad view of the corporation and business, the information would signify a single point of view. The excellence of the examination will be better significantly if interview are held with a range of stakeholders such as suppliers, employees, strategic partners, customers, etc. SWOT Analysis Limitations While valuable for sinking a huge amount of situational factors into an additional convenient summary, the SWOT structure has a inclination to generalize the condition by classifying the firms environmental factors into categories in which they may not always fit. The classification of some factors as strengths or weaknesses, or as opportunities or threats is somewhat random. For example, a particular company culture can be either strength or a weakness. A technological change can be a either a threat or an opportunity. Perhaps what are more significant than the external classification of these factors are the firms consciousness of them and its growth of a strategic plan to use them to its benefit. Conclusion As the SWOT analysis issues is sorting into the six planning category these cans get a scheme which present a sensible way of assimilating the internal and external information about the business unit, delineating short and long term priorities, and allowing an easy way to build the management team these cans achieve the objectives of profit growth. This comes within reach of captures the collective agreement and pledge of those who will ultimately have to do the work of meeting or exceeding the objectives finally set. It permits the team leader to define and develop co-ordinated, goal-directed actions, which underpin the overall agreed objectives between levels of the business hierarchy. GE recognizes that part of being successful and well-respected is being socially responsible as well Has huge potential to remain successful without any major threats from competitors Staying Power Will only continue to expand

Determining Avogadro’s Constant and Faraday’s Constant

Determining Avogadro’s Constant and Faraday’s Constant List of Apparatus Name of Apparatus Quantity Uncertainty Electronic Stopwatch 1  ±0.2s Ammeter 1  ±0.01A Wires with crocodile clips 1 D.C power source 1  ±0.01V 300cm3 Beaker 3 Copper strips 2 Sand paper 1 Graphite rod 2 pH probe/data-logger 1  ±0.2 Electronic weighing balance 1  ±0.001 DATA COLLECTION: The electrolytic cell used in this investigation is illustrated in Fig 1: Fig 1 Diagram of electrolytic cell used in investigation In this investigation, a current is passed through the solution with copper as the cathode and graphite as the anode. After a set amount of time, the circuit is disconnected and the mass of the cathode is measured. Following which, calculations are made so as to determine the Avogadro’s and Faraday’s constant. Qualitative Observations When the D.C power source was turned on, bubbles were formed at the Graphite anode. As the reaction progresses, powdery substance gets suspended in the solution and a black solid deposits can be found at the bottom of the beaker and there is a visible decomposition of the graphite electrode. As the reaction progress, a pink layer of copper forms on the copper strip. The copper strip is originally brown in colour while the graphite electrode is black in colour. Eventually, as the graphite electrode decomposes, the graphite molecules will turn the copper (II) sulphate solution from blue to black in colour. However, when the copper sulfate solution is filtered, it is noted that there is a decrease in the intensity of the blue colour in the filtrate after the electrolysis. The initial pH of the solution is 2.75, after the electrolysis is carried out, the pH decreases to 2.10. Data Collection Constant variables Time Interval/s( ±0.2) 300 Voltage/V 4V Current/A( ±0.01) 0.25 Cathode Trial 1 Initial mass/g ( ± 0.001 g) 1.315 Final mass/g ( ± 0.001 g) 1.279 Change in mass/g ( ± 0.002 g) 0.036 Chemical equation for reaction at the anode: 2H2O (l) à ¯Ã†â€™Ã‚  O2 (g) + 4H+ + 4e (aq) Chemical equation for reaction at the cathode: Cu2+ (aq) + 2e à ¯Ã†â€™Ã‚   Cu (s) Calculations for cathode Calculations Error Propagation Change in mass(Cu) = 0.036g Mols of (Cu) = =5.7 x 10-4 mol Number of mol of electrons- Using mol ratio Cu2+ (aq) + 2e à ¯Ã†â€™Ã‚   Cu (s) Number of mol of electrons =11.4 x 10-4 Charge flowing through circuit Number of electron charges in circut= Where is the elementary charge, the charge of one electron Number of electron charges in circuit = Number of mol of electrons Where L is the Avagandro’s constant Equating the number of mols of electrons obtained form the copper mass data and the number of mol of electrons from the current- Faraday’s constant = = 67000 C % ±ÃŽâ€ Mol of Cu = % ±ÃŽâ€ Mol of Cu = = 5.6 % % Uncertainty of number of mol of electrons = % uncertainty of Mass(Cu) =5.6% % uncertainty of number of mol of electrons =5.6% % ±ÃŽâ€ charge flowing in circuit = Percentage error Percentage error for Faraday’s Constant = = = 30% Percentage uncertainty of faraday’s constant =5.9% Percentage systematic error in Faradays’ constant =%error-%random error = 24.1% Percentage error for Avogadro’s Constant = = 30% Percentage uncertainty of Avogadro’s Constant =5.9% Percentage systematic error in Avogadro’s Constant =%error-%random error = 24.1% Conclusion In conclusion, the calculated value of Faraday’s constant is mol-1 and Avogadro’s constant is. As seen above, the percentage error for both Faraday’s constant and Avogadro’s constant are both 30% and after subtracting the error due to instrumental uncertainty, the % systematic error obtained is 24.1%. This shows that the experimental values calculated differ greatly from the literature values, indicating that there has been a significant amount of systematic error, which has caused the calculated value to be much different from the literature value. As percentage error of both Faraday’s constant and Avogadro’s constant are much larger than their respective percentage uncertainties, this indicates that the sources of systematic error are significant and cannot be ignored Evaluation Type of error Limitation Improvement Systematic Oxidation of copper occurs naturally when the copper strip is exposed to oxygen and when it is heated in the oven. Even when sand paper is used to scratch off the layer of copper oxide on the surface of the, it is difficult to completely rid of all the copper oxide. The formation of copper oxide will affect the reaction when electrolysis occurs and will affect the change in mass of the copper electrode, which is the dependent variable in this experiment. Even when the copper strip is immersed in the copper (II) sulphate solution, after a period of time, it will eventually start to form a layer of copper (II) oxide which will not be involved in the electrolysis reaction. This will reduce the amount of copper which will undergo reaction, causing it to reduce the eventual calculated Faraday’s and Avogadro’s constant. It is impossible to prevent the oxidation of copper from happening however, this systematic error can be minimised. Other than ensuring that the layer of copper oxide is scratched off by rubbing the copper strip excessively with sandpaper. The time for which the copper stays in the oven can be minimised or hair dryer can be used instead to blow the water off. Systematic When the graphite electrode starts to disintegrates as the reaction progresses, fragments of graphite will be dispersed throughout the entire solution. As copper (II) ions move towards the copper strip to plate it, some of the graphite fragments may end up attached to the copper strip as well and are unable to fall off as a layer of copper plates over the graphite fragments. This can be observed in the experiment when the copper strip is removed at the end of the experiment; black fragments of graphite are observed on the copper strip. The graphite fragments would easily reach the copper strip mainly because they were quite near each other. Hence, the graphite fragments could easily move towards the copper strips and attach to them. In order to minimise this from happening, the experiment should be conducting in a 500cm3 beaker, with the copper strip and the graphite electrode held further away from each other. Also, the graphite electrode should be positioned below the copper strip so that as the graphite electrode disintegrates, the graphite fragments will simply sink towards the bottom of the beaker, hence it will be less likely for the graphite fragments to accidentally coat onto the copper electrode Systematic Fluctuations in the current. Whenever the 2 electrodes were moved, the current of the circuit changes. Hence, whenever the copper electrode was moved in order to be weighed, the current would fluctuate, resulting in an inconsistent current throughout the experiment. If the current deviates from the stated 0.25, the resulting Faraday’s constant and Avogadro’s constant will be affected as well. An increase in current will result in an increase in the Faraday’s constant and Avogadro’s constant calculated while a decrease in current will result in a decrease in the Faraday’s constant and Avogadro’s constant calculated. In order to prevent fluctuations in the current as a result of the shifting electrodes, a retort stand can be used to hold the electrodes in place and prevent them from moving. This is much more reliable than just using hands to hold the electrode, resulting in a reduction in the fluctuation of the current A rheostat can be used and included in the circuit in order to adjust the amount of resistance of the circuit so that the desired current can be achieved. As current is inversely proportionate to resistance according to Ohm’s law, the resistance of the circuit can be adjusted in order to ensure a consistent current of 0.3 throughout the experiment. Systematic Also, another source of systematic error in this experiment would come from the fact that, the reading on the ammeter does not indicate the actual electric current flowing through the electrodes and the electrolyte as this value may decrease due to power losses in the wires. That is the electrical energy would be converted to heat. However the resistance of the wires in the circuit was assumed to be negligible in this experiment for simplicity. This would lead to systematic error as we would consistently overestimate the magnitude of the current flowing through the electrolyte. This error can be avoided if the values of the resistance of the wires as well as the internal resistance of the power source were known and included in the calculations made. Systematic The copper electrode may undergo a process called passivation[1] where the metal forms a protective layer on its surface to protect it from outer factors such as water or air to prevent corrosion. Such a protective layer will result in a high resistance which will lead to a voltage delay. This process may also occur on the graphite electrode. During the reaction, in the presence of passivation, the initial rate of the increase in mass of the copper electrode will be slowed down; ultimately affecting the total gain in mass by the copper electrode, affecting the Faraday’s constant and Avogadro’s constant calculated. This process of passivation can be removed by allowing the reaction to progress for 5 minutes to avoid a voltage delay. 5 minutes was chosen because too short a time will be insufficient to remove the protective layer on the electrode and too long a time will result in the disintegration of the graphite electrode even before the collection of data has begun. As mentioned above, if there is too much graphite fragments in the copper (II) sulphate solution, they may come into contact with the copper electrode and affect its final mass as copper ions plate over the graphite fragments on the copper electrode. Random Error Due to time constrains, only one set of data was collected. This will result in the fluctuation of the value of the Faraday’s and Avogadro’s constant. In order to reduce the error, perhaps more sets of data can be collected, so that a graph of metal deposited against time can be plotted and the gradient will enable the determination of the two constants. [1] Metal passivation-en.w,wikepedia.org/Passivation_(Chemistry). Accessed- 26/2/2014)

Free Essay - Mrs. Linde and Nora in Ibsens A Dolls House :: A Dolls House Essays

A Doll’s House Essay: Mrs. Linde and Nora      Ã‚  Ã‚   After reading   â€Å"A Doll’s House† by Hendrik Ibsen. I can conclude that there is both a parallel and a contrast structure in the characters of Mrs. Linde and Nora. A contrasting difference in the characters, are shown not in the characters themselves, but the role that they play in their marriages. These women have different relationships with their husbands. Torvald and Nora have a relationship where there is no equality. To Torvald Nora is an object. Hence, she plays the submissive role in a society where the lady plays the passive role. Her most important obligation is to please Torvald, making her role similar to a slave. He too considers himself superior to her. As for Kristine and Krogstad their relationship is much more open to us. It is apparent that if Kristine and Krogstad were to engage in an argument, it is more likely that that they would come to a compromise. A strong sign that Mrs. Linde brings us a better understanding of Nora is their parallel in characters. Both are willing to sacrifice themselves for values dear to their lives. This act of aiding significant loved ones gives us a better understanding of Nora. It gives us an image of who the character Nora really is. Mrs. Linde shows her loyalty to her family when she did not think that she â€Å"had the right† to refuse her husband’s marriage proposal. After taking into consideration her sick mother, her brothers, and Krogstad having money. She married for the welfare of her family. Which means that in this society family is top priority. To the women is this era, loyalty to their loved ones is highly expected. Then, we have Nora, who on the same token saves her husband (Torvald’s) life, which portrays again, the trend of women sacrificing for their families. They both (Mrs. Linde and Nora) express their feelings of pride and fulfillment in helping their significant others by sacrificing themselves. Nora’s character is made more obvious to us by Mrs. Linde’s actions. Not only did Nora open her mouth about saving her husband‘s life, but she did it with the utmost pride. Claiming to have raised all the money herself she soaks in her self-importance. In Act 1, Nora seems to thrive on the pride she gets from borrowing the money. I suppose that she is feeling useful for a change.

A Review of Emma :: essays research papers

A Review of Emma I’ve read Sense and Sensibility, Pride and Prejudice, and most recently Emma. All of them are wonderful, and I can never decide which one is my favorite book by Jane Austen. But definitely Emma is, to me, a very engaging one. I have no special feeling about this book at first glance. Because of Jane Austen, I choose it and take some patience to read. And finally, the patience is greatly rewarded. Emma is a timeless story which is both funny and compelling. The characters are all really well developed, especially Emma, a 21-year-old girl, who is portrayed as incredibly human. The story is, briefly, about Emma, who is young, beautiful, rich and witty and lives with her father Mr. Woodhouse. She has vowed herself never to marry, but loves to play a matchmaker. She has just matched her tutor, Miss Taylor, up with Mr. Weston. She is quite proud of her success and finds satisfaction in it. In her arrogance, she believes that she knows what is right for everyone, and determined to appoint herself Cupid for all of her friends. Mr. Knightley, a neighbor and the brother of her older sister’s husband, warns her not to meddle in the other’s affairs, but she doesn’t take it seriously. She takes care of a young girl of unknown parentage named Harriet. Harriet is in love with a farmer named Robert Martin, but Emma thinks that he is beneath her, so she encourages Harriet to set her sights on Mr. Elton, a local vicar, as a future husband. Poor Harriet is completely bowled over by Emma. But unfortunately, everything goes to the opposite side, and fina lly Emma knows the fact that Harriet and Mr. Elton are completely unsuited, and that Harriet and her farmer are made for each other. Through a lot of hilarious scenes, Emma comes to realize that she doesn’t know as much as she thinks, and learns that it’s better to let other people manage their own lives. As the other works of Jane Austen, Emma describes the ordinary person and trivial matters. The plot develops around the activities of choosing spouse for the heroines. It reveals the bad habit that people regarded marriage as the economic insurance to woman at that time. In order to raise the economic position, they emphasized the family status but ignored women’s feelings and rights. The main female characters in Emma all seek the equal communication with man, they demand the equal rights in the social position, and insist on the freedom of observing and choosing spouses.

Personal Goals :: essays research papers

When I think of graduating from college, I see someone who is 22-years old. When I was 22 years old, I had seen more things than I care to remember. I had just left the Air Force where I was a medic in the first Gulf War. I spent most of my time in the Labor and Delivery unit of the base hospital. I loved assisting with the birth of a child. My time spent in the Labor and Delivery unit was the most wonderful and rewarding experience. Before I left the Air Force, I started taking college courses working toward a bachelor’s degree in Nursing. My dream was to obtain a Master of Nursing degree in Midwifery. As a Certified Nurse Midwife I could care for pregnant women and help them bring their babies into this world. Complete My Degree When I left the military and returned to Austin, I continued to pursue a Nursing degree, but got side-tracked in college life. That would be the party side of college life. I was not focused on my studies. I began a rewarding career by chance. I sold long distance telephone service for MCI as a part-time job. Over a very short period of time I was being promoted again and again. Eventually, I gave up on college since it did not seem I needed a degree to get ahead. While I learned a great deal through on-the-job training, I never felt like I had a complete understanding of my field. I had stumbled into a career in Information Technology and despite my lack of formal training, I continued to prove myself and to grow my career. I have since learned that I enjoy the Information Technology field very much and would like to complete my degree in Business/Information Systems rather than nursing. Learn About Business and Information Technology Despite my progression to a senior level in my field, there are still aspects of my field that I do not fully understand. I have excelled as a Business Systems Analyst for many years; however, I hope to learn more about business to help me better understand the needs of my business partners. I also hope to learn more about the many facets of Information Technology so I can begin to move toward strategic solutions development. Feel Better About Myself I have always felt terrible about leaving college. I believe it was the right thing to do at the time since I was not taking it seriously but I have always regretted quitting.

Harvard case essay

Treasury bonds with the same maturity. The deference between selling TIPS and buying T-bonds will cover the Inflation risk losses thus effectively eliminates Inflation risk In the portfolio. The Harvard's Policy Portfolio Includes much of the university endowment, pension assets, working capital, and portfolio contains 1 1 wide asset classes, Including domestic equity, foreign equity, private equity, domestic bonds, foreign bonds, emerging markets, real estate, commodities, absolute return, high yield, and cash.This portfolio was determined by the board of the corporation for the long-run allocation, however, the manager can make short-run adjustment within the limits from the guideline. The reason that HAMS focus on real returns is HAMS want to exclude the influence of inflation and determine the return rate more precisely. As the formula nominal return = real return + inflation rate shows, choosing real return instead of nominal return can reveal the real purchasing power of the in vestment, thus help the manager to conduct more efficiently to prevent the evasion of the investment.As we can see from Exhibit land Exhibit 2, domestic and foreign equity constitute the biggest part of the portfolio, and these two asset classes have high real returns as well as latterly larger standard deviations. And we know that equity premium indicates the difference between the expected return on the market portfolio of common stocks and the risk-free interest rate, and higher risk often indicates higher equity premium.Based on Ham's assumption that the real growth rate of annual spending is 3% after inflation, and that gifts to the endowment are same as the historical average rate (1%), HIM has to maintain a real between 6% and 7% of the total investment In order achieve its preservation goal. Thus HIM has to invest a large portion in US and reign equity with higher premium, resulting in a short of cash. Yes, From inception in 1 997, TIPS had offered a real yield that ranged f rom. 2% to 4. 25%.