Barilla Case Study: Operational Ineffeciencies

Case Presentation Barilla SpA Introduction Company & Industry background †¢ World’s largest pasta producer in 1990 †¢ Pasta Share – 35% in Italy and 22% in Europe Channels of Distribution †¢ Products divided in 2 categories – â€Å"Fresh† and â€Å"Dry† †¢ Fresh Products had 21 day Shelf Lives †¢ Dry Products had Long ( 18 to 24 Months) or Medium(10 to 12 weeks) Shelf Lives †¢ Retail Outlets – Small independent The Issue During the late 1980s, Barilla suffered increasing operational inefficiencies and cost penalties that resulted from large week-to-week variations in its distributors’ order patterns Distribution Procedure †¢ Original flow of goods and information PLANT CDC’s Barilla run depots GD’s Chain supermarkets DO’s Independent supermarkets â€Å"Signora Maria† Shops Customers Customers Customers *CDC = Central Distribution Centre GD = Grand Distributors DO = Organize d Distributors Sales and Marketing Advertising – Heavy, Brand Positioned as the Highest Quality †¢ Trade promotions – Frequent †¢ Canvass period, 10 to 12 in a year, typical duration of 4 to 5 weeks †¢ Distributor could buy as much product as desired to meet present and future needs at the offered discount †¢ Volume Discounts also given †¢ Sales representatives used more at DO’s than GD’s – Merchandise Barilla Products – Set up In-Store Promotion – Take note of competitor’s prices, stockouts, new product launches – Work out ordering strategies for the retailer etc Demand Fluctuations †¢ Just in Time Distribution Variability in Demand †¢ Reasons – – – – Transportation discounts Volume discount Promotional activity No minimum or maximum order quantities – Product proliferation – Long order lead times – Lack of forecasting systems or sophist icated analytical tools at Distributer’s end Exhibit 12: Demand Fluctuations Variability in Demand †¢ Methods employed to counter variability – Holding buffer FGs to meet Distributor requirements – Asking Distributors/Retailers to carry additional inventory Impact – Strained Manufacturing and Logistics operations* – Poor Product delivery management – Thinning retailer/distributor margins – Increased Inventory Holding costs – Impossible to anticipate Demand swings – Changing customers due to lack of storage space Bullwhip effect †¢ Amplified Variation in demand as one moves up the Supply Chain (away from the order order customer) order Factory Distributor Wholesaler Retailer Order Variation The Causes of Bullwhip Effect Demand Forecast †¢ Long lead times †¢ Order Batching †¢ Price fluctuation (Promotional sales) †¢ Inflated orders in high estimated demand scenarios Counteracting the Bullwhip Effect †¢ Reduce Uncertainty – POS – Sharing Information – Centralizing demand information †¢ Reduce Variability – Year round or Everyday low pricing †¢ Reduce Lead Times – Information lead times: EDI – Order lead times: Cross Docking †¢ Strategic Partnerships – – – – Quick Response Continuous Replenishment Advanced Continuous Replenishment Vendor managed Inventory (VMI) Just-In-Time Distribution (JITD) †¢ Vendor-Managed Inventory Concept †¢ Treats end-customer as the Input †¢ Aims at managing the Input filter that Produces the Orders †¢ Decision-making authority for determining shipments in hands of Barilla SpA †¢ Barilla would monitor the flow of its products through the distributor’s warehouse, and then decide what to ship to the distributor and when to ship it †¢ Distributor provides Data on the shipment and current stock levels for Expected Benefits of JITD †¢ Manufacturer – Reduced manufacturing costs – Better Relationship with Distributors †¢ Increased supply chain visibility †¢ Increase Distributor’s dependence on Barilla – Improvement in manufacturing planning using objective data – Reduced inventory levels †¢ Distributors – Improved fill rates to Retail stores – Additional service without any extra cost – Reduced Inventory Holding costs JITD – Internal Resistance Sales Representatives feared reduction in responsibilities †¢ Flattened sales levels †¢ Risk of Inability to adjust shipments quickly to stock-outs †¢ Lack of infrastructure to handle JITD †¢ Increased competitor shelf space at distributor †¢ Inability to run Trade promotions †¢ Unsure about the cost benefits JITD – External Resistance †¢ Unconvinced Distributors †¢ Not willing to share warehouse data †¢ Perceived power transfer to Barilla †¢ Lack of faith in Barilla’s inventory management Possible methods to counter Resistance †¢ Demonstrate that JITD benefits the distributors – Run experiment at one or more of the distributor sites †¢ Maggiali needs to look at JITD not as a logistics program, but as a company-wide effort – Get Top management closely involved Experiments at Dryproduct depots †¢ Barilla spa ran first JITD experiment at its Florence depot †¢ During the very first month of the program – Inventory dropped from 10. 1 days to 3. 6 days – Service level to retail stores increased from 98. 9% to 99. % †¢ Depot’s staff was not comfortable working with such low inventory levels – Inventory levels finally allowed to increase to 5 days †¢ One of the arguments against JITD was that it will lead to waste empty spaces in the ware houses Experiments at Dryproduct depots †¢ In Florence case – Barilla growing at rapid rate in the region – Plans to expand warehouse – Existin g warehouse able to accommodate the increased requirement – Substantial investment on expansion was avoided †¢ JITD next tried at Milan Depot – Similar performance improvement as Florence †¢ These experiments established the credibility of JITD system Implementation at D. O. Cortese †¢ The decision to implement JITD in Marchese DC of Cortese involved – Barilla: Director of Logistics, Executive vice president of sales and Manager in charge of JITD implementation – Cortese: Nine managers including Managing director, new services manager, logistics manager and logistics, purchasing, marketing and sales personnel from Cortese’s Marchese DC †¢ Consultant Claudio Ferrozzi was roped in – Neutral party trusted by both the groups Implementation at D. O. Cortese †¢ For six months, Barilla team analyzed daily shipment data of the DC – Created the data base of DC’s historical demand pattern – Simulated shipments with JITD in place †¢ The implementation yielded phenomenal results – Prior to JITD †¢ Stock out rate : 2 to 5% ( Occasionally as high as 10 to 13%) – After JITD †¢ Negligible stock out rate of less than. 25%(Never exceeded 1%) †¢ Average inventory level also dropped Adaptation to different distributors With new confidence they approached other customers †¢ Customers apprehensive about JITD repeating the same success as Cortese for them as they had varied systems †¢ Barilla’s team developed capacity to translate customer’s standard’s into internal standards Adaptation to different distributors †¢ Developed a protocol which could be used to communicate with all customers †¢ Each SKU identified with three d ifferent product codes – Barilla’s code – Customer’s code – EAN (European article numbering system) barcode – Most common barcode standard in Europe †¢ Advantages of the coding system Information can be received through any code – Reduce impact of internal changes in product or code on client’s system Communication with consumers Customer each day sent following information to Barilla via EDI:1. Customer code number to identify itself 2. Inventory for each SKU carried by DC 3. Previous day’s â€Å"sell through†-All shipments of Barilla products out of DC to consumers on the previous day 4. Stock outs on previous day for every Barilla SKU carried by DC 5. An advance order for any promotions that the customer planned to run in the future 6. Preferred delivery carton size Lessons learnt One needs to prove credibility of any new performance initiative for others to buy his/her idea †¢ Best place to experimen t with an idea is within the organization †¢ To succeed in a new initiative, involvement of top management is imperative †¢ Market is ever growing. If performance measures seem to create spare time/capacity instead of chucking them, look out for ways to increase the – Barrilla could finally succeed in implementing JITD with Cortese. Whole of top management from both sides was involved in the decision making. Which never happened earlier – Sometimes roping a consultant helps THANK YOU

Corporate Finance Homework – Chapter 4

Corporate Finance2 CreditsBU. 231. 620. 62Thursday 6pm – 9pm, 10/18/2012–12/13/2012Fall2, 2012Columbia, Columbia Center, 218| Instructor Shabnam Mousavi Contact Information Phone Number: (410)234-9450 E-mail Address: [email  protected] edu Office Hours Monday/Thursday 10am-noon Required Text and Learning Materials (1) Berk, J. and P. DeMarzo. 2007. Corporate Finance. 2nd Edition. Pearson, Addison-Wesley with MyLab access. The ISBN is 0-13-295-040-5. (2) Lecture Notes. The lecture notes will be posted weekly on Blackboard, before class. 3) MyFinanceLab: All homework and quizzes are posted on MyFinanceLab. Instructions available at the end of this syllabus. Course ID: mousavi28617 Blackboard Site A Blackboard course site is set up for this course. Each student is expected to check the site throughout the semester as Blackboard will be the primary venue for outside classroom communications between the instructors and the students. Students can access the course site at h ttps://blackboard. jhu. edu. Support for Blackboard is available at 1-866-669-6138.Course Evaluation As a research and learning community, the Carey Business School is committed to continuous improvement. Therefore each student must complete the course evaluation as part of the continuous improvement process. Information on how to complete the evaluation will be provided near the end of the course. Disability Services Johns Hopkins University and the Carey Business School are committed to making all academic programs, support services, and facilities accessible.To determine eligibility for accommodations, please contact the Carey Disability Services Office at time of admission and allow least four weeks prior to the beginning of the first class meeting. Students should contact Rachel Hall in the Disability Services office by phone at 410-234-9243, by fax at 443-529-1552, or email: carey. [email  protected] edu. Important Academic Policies and Services * Honor Code * Statement of D iversity and Inclusion * Tutoring * Carey Writing Center * Inclement Weather PolicyStudents are strongly encouraged to consult the Johns Hopkins Carey Business School Student Handbook and Academic Catalog and the School website http://carey. jhu. edu/syllabus_policies for detailed information regarding the above items. Course Description The goal of this course is to analyze the major decisions of a corporation. The course deals primarily with a firm’s investment and financing decisions and the firm’s interaction with capital markets. Topics include valuation of future cash flows and risk, capital budgeting, capital structure theory, and pay-out theory.Course Overview About 90% of total revenues in the US economy are generated by corporations. Understanding decision-making within a corporation, whether it is about the choice of investment or about how to raise capital to finance a specific investment, is fundamentally important to understand the key players in todayâ⠂¬â„¢s economy. This course provides the tools to understand efficient decision-making within a corporation by employing the notion of absence of arbitrage (i. e. , the Law of One Price), namely the fundamental principle shaping all aspects of modern finance.While my goal cannot be to make you expert managers in eight weeks, you will be able to evaluate important corporate decisions coherently within the framework of the no-arbitrage principle. Student Learning Objectives for This Course All Carey graduates are expected to demonstrate competence on four Learning Goals, operationalized in eight Learning Objectives. These learning goals and objectives are supported by the courses Carey offers. For a complete list of Carey learning goals and objectives, please refer to the website http://carey. jhu. edu/LearningAtCarey/LGO/index. html. The learning objectives for this course are: . You should be able to price future certain (and uncertain) streams of income. 2. You should be able to us e effectively valuation methods when making capital-budgeting decisions. 3. You should recognize the financial and strategic implications of alternative corporate financing decisions in different environments. 4. You should recognize the financial and strategic implications of alternative corporate pay-out decisions in different environments. 5. You should understand agency problems in the context of corporate financing and pay-out decisions and their ethical implications. Attendance PolicyClass attendance is mandatory. Each student should read the assigned materials and give careful thought to background information prior to each class session. Having done so will not only facilitate class discussion, it will also lighten your workload because the lectures are much easier to follow after the readings have been digested. Assignments Course grades will be based on 3 quizzes (Dates on MyFinanceLab), homework assignments, and a final exam. The quizzes will be available on MyFinanceLab. A maximum of one quiz can be missed. If a quiz is missed, additional weight (10%) is put on the final exam. Missing a quiz only means â€Å"not sitting for it. † For example, it does not mean â€Å"discarding an unfavorable grade ex-post. †) Homework assignments will be posted each week on MyFinanceLab. You can work on these in groups but you do not have to do so, if you so choose. After due date no points will be given for a homework. The final exam will be about 3-hour long. It will be closed-book. A two-sided (A4) self made consolidation-sheet will be allowed. Evaluation and Grading Assignment| Learning Outcome| Weight| 3 quizzes| 1-5| 10% each| Assignments| 1-5| 20%| Final exam| 1-5| 50%|Important notes about grading policy: The grade for good performance in a course will be a B+/B. The grade of A- will only be awarded for excellent performance. The grade of A will be reserved for those who demonstrate extraordinarily excellent performance. The grades of D+, D, an d D- are not awarded at the graduate level. Grade appeals will ONLY be considered in the case of a documented clerical error. Tentative Course Calendar *The instructor reserves the right to alter course content and/or adjust the pace to accommodate class progress. REMARK1: no class on 11/22, and 11/29- ThanksgivingREMARK2: Online material including quizzes, activities, and practices are designed on MyFinanceLab; Always check your MyFinanceLab for assignments; You are responsible for completing online requirements and submitting your work before deadlines. Pre-course readings: Chapters 1 and 2 of Berk and DeMarzo. If you cannot read these chapters for the first class, it is important that you do so for the second class. Week| Content| Reading| 1| (1) Valuing cash flows (2) Net present values| Chapters 3 and 4| 2| * Fundamentals of capital budgeting| Chapter 7| | Quiz1: see dates on MyFinanceLab (1) Debt and equity financing (2) Modigliani-Miller| Chapter 14| 4| (1) Debt and taxes (2) The cost of bankruptcy (3) Optimal capital structure: the trade-off theory (4) Agency costs: time-permitting| Chapters 15 and 16| 5| Quiz2: see dates on MyFinanceLab * Information and pay-out policy| Chapter 17| 6| no class| Online quizzes and assignments (on MyFinanceLab/Blackboard, beyond homework) for minimum total of 3 hours distributed through semester| 7| Quiz3: see dates on MyFinanceLab * More on capital budgeting (with leverage and market imperfections) (1) Risk and return (2) Systematic versus idiosyncratic risk (3) Evaluating the cost of capital| Chapter 18 Chapter 10 and Chapter 12| 8| Final Exam, in Class| Comprehensive| ————————————————- Copyright Statement Unless explicitly allowed by the instructor, course materials, class discussions, and examinations are created for and expected to be used by class participants only. The recording and rebroadcasting of su ch material, by any means, is forbidden. Violations are subject to sanctions under the Honor Code. MyLab / Mastering Student Registration Instructions To register for BU. 231. 620. 62. FA12: 1. Go to pearsonmylabandmastering. com. 2. Under Register, click Student. 3. Enter your instructor’s course ID: mousavi28617, and click Continue. 4.Sign in with an existing Pearson account or create an account:  · If you have used a Pearson website (for example, MyITLab, Mastering, MyMathLab, or MyPsychLab), enter your Pearson username and password. Click Sign In.  · If you do not have a Pearson account, click Create. Write down your new Pearson username and password to help you remember them. 5. Select an option to access your instructor’s online course:  · Use the access code that came with your textbook or that you purchased separately from the bookstore.  · Buy access using a credit card or PayPal.  · If available, get 17 days of temporary access. (Look for a link nea r the bottom of the page. ) 6. Click Go To Your Course on the Confirmation page. Under MyLab / Mastering New Design on the left, click BU. 231. 620. 2. FA12 to start your work. Retaking or continuing a course? If you are retaking this course or enrolling in another course with the same book, be sure to use your existing Pearson username and password. You will not need to pay again. To sign in later: 1. Go to pearsonmylabandmastering. com. 2. Click Sign In. 3. Enter your Pearson account username and password. Click Sign In. 4. Under MyLab / Mastering New Design on the left, click BU. 231. 620. 62. FA12 to start your work. Additional Information See Students > Get Started on the website for detailed instructions on registering with an access code, credit card, PayPal, or temporary access.

Climate Change and Tax Policy Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2250 words

Climate Change and Tax Policy - Essay Example Carbon Tax is a kind of Pollution Tax purported to be applied on the energy sources which emit carbon dioxide. (Wikipedia)1 The Carbon Emission Trading on the other hand as provided by Kyoto Protocol involves the global trading of permits to emit green house gases converted in terms of Carbon dioxide. (Wikipedia) 2 Obviously there is a need to put a price on carbon to force companies to abandon older, dirtier technologies for newer, cleaner ones. Today the atmosphere is being used as municipal dump where carbon dioxide is deposited free. The New York Times (2007) 3 Once the governments start putting a monetary value on this privilege, business and industrial houses will be forced to evolve smarter ways to run their business. A carbon tax is one approach. Another is to impose a steadily decreasing cap on emissions and Several arguments are being advocated for and against each of these two forms of measures that can be undertaken by the different countries of the world. This case study ______________________________________________________________________ Carbon tax is based on the carbon content of the fuel being consumed by each entity individually. Under economic theory carbon tax represents an indirect tax on the negative externality as such tax would add up to the actual cost of production by internalizing the social cost of polluting the environment by emitting carbon dioxide and other gases. Charles Komanoff (2007)5 opines that to attack global warming, every energy-critical decision needs to be predicated on a trajectory of rising energy prices. A phased-in carbon tax allows this, whereas cap-and-trade will do little to mitigate the price roller-coaster that discourages emissions-minimizing investment. 2.1Cases for Carbon Tax: Levying a tax on the emissions will: Reduce the fossil fuel usage and substitute them by clean fuels and technology Provide a revenue steam to enable a progressive tax shifting - Carbon Tax Centre6 Carbon tax could be extended to all carbon based consumptions while trading systems may not be able to reach parts of the transportation and service sectors Transaction costs are lower in the case of carbon tax as compared to emissions trading Carbon taxes pose an effective system for the reduction of emissions as it is a permanent incentive to reduce the emissions Kevin Baumert

CASE 3 ETHICS - Physical Privacy Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

CASE 3 ETHICS - Physical Privacy - Essay Example Utilitarianism focuses on the consequences of actions, and the consequences of suspending these two players are generally good, while Deontology understands that although people have rights to enhance themselves, they should do so within the bounds of law and integrity, to which they have duties of following. Utilitarians assert that an action is good, if it results to a net good for the greatest number of people, and severe penalties for artificially enhancing performance have widespread benefits to numerous stakeholders (Brooks & Dunn, 2010, p.183). First, the penalty respects the hard work of majority of athletes who do not use these enhancers. Using testosterone has been documented to have immediate physical and functioning effects on athletes, such as increased strength, agility, and speed (Lumpkin, Stoll, & Beller, 2012, p.154). Their former manager, Brian Cashman, says that he is not surprised that these athletes used testosterone. He said: â€Å"In Bartolo’s case, as well as he has done last year as well through this year, at his age, after coming back from that surgery, makes you scratch your head† (DelVecchio, 2012). As for Cabrera, Cashman’s comments were: â€Å"When we traded him to Atlanta we had him as a low-end, everyday regular or an excellent fourth outfielder† (DelVecchio, 2012). ... Sports must be about natural abilities that are improved through regular practice, discipline, and other â€Å"natural† efforts. If everyone followed the same practice of using enhancers, people would no longer know if the performance they see is â€Å"natural† or a product of drug enhancement. The â€Å"truth† and â€Å"reality† of sports will be shattered. This means that using testosterone can have negative effects on the perceptions of both athletes and sports. The penalties are just because they ensure that athletes would not succumb to similar practices and that the sports industry’s image will not be marred. With such a high penalty, other athletes will be discouraged of using enhancers. They will know that the harms to their income and career will outweigh the benefits. Third, using these enhancers has side effects (Lumpkin et al., 2012, p.154). They can experience â€Å"life-threatening problems such as extreme psychoses, heart disease, li ver and kidney damage, and cancer (Lumpkin et al., 2012, p.155). Other side effects are mood swings and uncontrollable aggression (Lumpkin et al., 2012, p.155). With these negative effects on athletes, it means that Cabrera and Colon are harming themselves. If the youth follows their enhancement practices, they will also be in peril. Thus, as role models who can detrimentally affect the sports industry and other athletes, Cabrera and Colon deserve a steep punishment. Deontology focuses on duty, not consequences, and Cabrera and Colon have duties to the sports industry, fellow athletes, and audience to follow rules and regulations (Ferrell et al., 2011, p.159). The sports industry has already banned the use of testosterone and other artificial enhancers because they are unethical. Cabrera and Colon are aware of these

What cluster allocation does, how it does it, why it is useful and how Research Paper

What cluster allocation does, how it does it, why it is useful and how does it differ from the traditional portfolio allocation - Research Paper Example The scheme treats the cluster as the sampling unit and conducts an analysis on the population of clusters. Consequently, the procedure reduces the cost of examination by increasing sampling efficiency. Clusters include geographical area and often the examiner treats various respondents or subjects within a local area as a cluster (Atzeni 40). Furthermore, the examiner increases the total sample size to establish equivalent accuracy in the estimators. The findings of the observation of any of the selected sample may not present an accurate highlight of the whole population, but they are mainly close to the actual behavior of the study subject. How cluster allocation functions The model is a sampling technique utilized when â€Å"natural† but uniform groupings are evident in a statistical population. In cluster allocation, the researcher assumes various steps in defining the sample population or constituents instead of selecting all subjects from the whole population. The examin er divides the entire population into various clusters from which he or she selects a random sample of groups (Karuri and Rainer 30). Consequently, the examiner gathers essential information from the random sample of elements in each selected group. One may evaluate every element in the selected groups or may select subsamples of fundamentals from each group. The procedure is motivated by the need of reducing the aggregate cost of the analysis. The scheme demands elements within a group to be heterogeneous while presenting homogeneity between group means. Furthermore, each cluster should be a subunit of the entire population. Clusters should also be mutually restricted and jointly exhaustive. This enhances systematic examination while minimizing sampling errors (Atzeni 37). The analyzer may utilize a single-stage cluster approach or two-stage cluster model in his or her analysis. In the single-stage scheme, one uses all elements from each selected group. However, in the two-stage cl uster model, one conducts random sampling on the elements from each of the selected group. Often, cluster allocation is only applicable when groups are approximately of the same size. In situations where the clusters have varying sizes, the examiner may combine clusters to make them assume relatively similar sizes (Karuri and Rainer 32). Usefulness of cluster allocation Cluster allocation is useful in reducing the amount of funds used in the examinations. The cluster allocation procedure provides the examiner with the opportunity of concentrating resources on the few randomly selected groups instead of evaluating the entire population. This makes the examination procedure less costly, simple and fast. Particularly, the model reduces traveling and listing cost, which are the major finance consuming procedures in sampling. For example, compiling statistics about each household in a city would be challenging, while compiling statistics about various blocks of the city would be easier. In such a situation, the traveling and the listing efforts will be reduced considerably (Karuri and Rainer 53). The procedure is essentially useful in minimizing the potentially large estimation errors in diversification analysis (Geotzmann & Wachter 271). The procedure applies the concept of mean-variance in examining essential elements. The mean-variance model evaluates a set of subjects’ weights across assets, which establishes the highest probable return for each specific level of investor risk. Developing target groups enhance the accuracy of the procedure because one can conduct a detailed examination. Furthermore, the model provides an effective procedure of evaluating large populations (Geotzmann &

Research paper Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words - 8

Research paper - Essay Example It is assumed ‘A training program for newly hired employees will increase their ability to learn job-related skills’. Employee training is significant to the study of leadership because it is associated with the employee-oriented type of leadership. An employee-oriented leader concentrates on motivating individual staff in their jobs and involves them in decision-making. This style of leadership permits leaders to be worried about the wants of their staff and pay close attention to their interests and attitudes. In addition, a leader endeavor to increase productivity through improved work environment and conditions. Moreover, a leader utilizing this style, increases production by resolving the difficulties encountered by employees in the course of their job implementation (Palestini, 2009). The research design formulated for this research focus on finding out how employee training of new workers will increase their job-related skills. The research design uses a qualitative interview method that utilizes research questions. The qualitative interview includes a description of the research questions. Likewise, the qualitative interview will use an interview guide to collect information from the participants. In addition, it will comprise of a short explanations of the research participants and the techniques of data collection.â€Æ' The importance of this research is to prove the validity of the assumption that a training program for newly hired workers will expand their ability to learn job-related skills. There is no person who is perfect at the time he or she is hired, and hence some form of training is necessary. From the r of an organization, there is no alternative on whether to empower staff or not. This is because the success and existence of a company in a dynamic environment depend in a persistence state of expansion of its resources. Employees are part and parcel of an

Portfolio of Seven Case Briefs on Different Business Law Topics Essay

Portfolio of Seven Case Briefs on Different Business Law Topics - Essay Example vs. Reeder-Simco GMC, Inc.,1 Kelo vs. City of New London,2 Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. vs. Samara Brothers, Inc.,3 Anderson vs. City of LaVergne,4 Dearborn vs. Real Estate Agency,5 Rhudy vs. Bottlecaps, Inc.,6 and Kain v. Bluemound East Industrial Park, Inc.,7 Reeder-Simco is a business entity that acts as a Volvo dealer in Fort Smith, Arkansas. In February of 2000, it filed suit against Volvo on the allegation that that its (Reeder's) sales and profits declined due to Volvo's price discrimination practices. Reeder-Simco alleges that Volvo offered to other dealers price concessions that were significantly more favorable that those given to Reeder-Simco. Thus, it filed suit against Volvo for allegedly violating the Robinson-Patman Act (RPA), which prohibits forms of discriminatory pricing that reduce competition. On this basis, Reeder explained that its business is conducted in the following manner: retail customers take bids from dealers who solicit price concessions from the manufacturers. These concessions are factored into dealer's bids. Reeder accuses Volvo of offering better price concessions to other Volvo dealers bidding for different customers, directly resulting in Reeder suffering losses. The District Court District Court allowe... The District Court District Court allowed the case to go to a jury, who held in favor of Reeder and awarded damages. Volvo appealed the decision, arguing a lack of competition was present, which is required by the RPA to apply. Volvo substantiated its contention stating that Reeder was not actually bidding against the Volvo dealers who supposedly were given favorable concessions. The appellate court dismissed the appeal, ruling that even though Volvo dealers do not actually bid against each other, they effectively competed at the same functional level, which would render the RPA applicable. Thus, Volvo brought the case to the Supreme Court on certiorari. Issue Whether or not a manufacturer offering its dealers different wholesale prices may be held liable for price discrimination proscribed by Robinson-Patman Act in the absence of a showing that the manufacturer discriminated between dealers contemporaneously competing to resell to the same retail customer. Ruling For the reasons stated, the judgment of the Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit is reversed, and the case is remanded for further proceedings consistent with this opinion. Analysis The Robinson-Patman Act does not reach the case Reeder presents, because the Act addresses price discrimination in cases involving competition between different purchasers for resale of the purchased product, whereas competition of that character is not involved when a product subject to special order is sold through a customer-specific competitive bidding process. It does not "ban all price differences charged to different purchasers of commodities of like grade and quality", but

The Leaders Challenge Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

The Leaders Challenge - Essay Example Career decisions are based on many factors, not just salary alone, some even have multiple careers. Church leadership models have changed over time as society continues to have increasing interest in religious issues and churches. The business model of a secular CEO has infiltrated many churches. Pastors of churches using a CEO model measure success by numbers, money, attendance and building projects, while other leaders consider that if the truth of Christ is ignored, the motive is wrong from the very start and adopt His model in areas of church, politics, and business. States Matthew 6:33, â€Å"But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well†. The external links you have provided for our learning experience are very helpful. There are so many new sites to explore that I have never seen. I look forward to exploring all of the links. The three links I found helpful that I currently use are Biblegateway.com. This site is extremely helpful in studying the Word of God. As we know, faith comes by hearing the Word. I take notes while the Word is being spoken by the reader. This style of learning, for me, allows the Word to sink deep into my conscience. The second link I enjoy is Dr. David Jeremiah, Turning Point. I enjoy expository preaching. Dr. Jeremiah is an extremely effective vessel for the Holy Spirit in teaching and dissection of the Scripture. Listening to the effective expository teaching of the Scripture allows students to mature in their walk with Christ. Thanks and God bless.

Effectiveness of HRD Programs (Public and Privet sector) in Oman Dissertation

Effectiveness of HRD Programs (Public and Privet sector) in Oman - Dissertation Example Sadly though, there has not been an effective way of measuring the impact of human resource development in Oman. Once this continuous, it becomes very difficult to tell whether or not human resource management in its entirety is effective in the country. Research Questions 1. How well are companies in the private and public in Oman adhering to human resource management practices as outlined for Gulf Cooperation Council countries? 2. How has human resource managers in various private and public institutions instituted the use of technology in the development of the skills, knowledge and abilities of their human resource? 3. How has the present state of human resource development impacted on employee turnover and employee performance? 4. What systematic plans are needed in the human resource development agenda to ensure effectiveness? Aims and Objectives The overall aim of the study is to identify the effectiveness of human resource development in the private and public sectors of Oman . To achieve this overall goal, the following specific objectives will be targeted so that the collective achievement of the objectives will constitute the singular achievement of the research aim (quote). 1. ... 4. To identify new systematic planners needed to lead the pace in what may be termed the new face of human resource development. General Methodology The present research follows the qualitative research method. This means that the researcher is going to dwell on the use of personalised and focused system of data collection rather than the use of numeric indexes that makes the use of complex mathematical calculations and presentations (quote). The need for the qualitative method emanates from the structure of the research questions and specific objectives, most of which are structured with inductive focus. A major advantage that will come with the qualitative method is that the researcher shall have the opportunity of widening the scope of data collection by using not just primary data but secondary data as well (quote). Data Collection Mechanisms In relation to the use the qualitative research method, the data collection mechanism is going to be selected on a basis that shall allow f or the collection of subjective inductive data (quote). In line with this, a structured interview is going to be used in the data collection process whereby open ended questions are going to be posed to respondents. These open ended questions are the type of questions that do not limit respondents on the selection of specified answers but gives them the freedom to undertake thorough analysis of questions (quote). Research Justification Significance of the Study The significance of the study is one that can be termed to be multivariate. This is because the significance of the study cuts across several sectors and involves a lot of people. For instance, by the end of the study, it is expected that human resource

The underground world of commercial sex (Real Stories of Prostitution Essay

The underground world of commercial sex (Real Stories of Prostitution in America) - Essay Example Prostitution comes into different forms. It can be in a form of escort service, massage parlours onto the internet, or clubs like the Bunny Ranch. One thing deeply interrelated with prostitution is drug addiction. Most women sex workers depend on drug to be able to work as a prostitute or a hooker. When we talk about this topic, I must say that it is very important to pay consideration to the women and their sides of story. Sometimes we judge them directly for what they are or their profession, but not for who they really are. Some of these women, like those interviewed by Diane Sawyer, are victims of society. A lot of these girls are young who were systematically abused, who ran away from home, who need money, and are very vulnerable to promises that this so called profession can offer. But they stick to the job to live. This means that it is not in their free will that they wanted to have a job like this. They resort to drugs to forget who they are and just do the job to support th em. When they are on duty, they have to forget who they are and fulfil their customers’ fantasies, even if that means pretending to be their pretty nice little girlfriends and whatever they desire. It is just so sad that these women are more likely to get arrested than the johns who pay them.

Group Response Techniques Essay Example for Free

Group Response Techniques Essay Active student responding is a critical component of effective instruction in class room . One low tech strategy developed to facilitate active student responding during group instruction involves the use of response cards . Typically this approach involves the teacher asking questions during instruction and having each student write down his / her answers on the response cards and then display those responses for the teacher feedback and corrective action. This paper is to evaluate that response cards is a more effective group response technique than the hand raising technique and other techniques. During hand raising , a student who raised his/her hand is called upon to answer the question posed by the teacher . During response card techniques , each student is asked to display his/her answer on the response card provided to him/her . The frequency of active student response was higher with the response cards than the hand raising technique Introduction Group response techniques are those techniques through which a group of students or Participants can answer to a question rather than individually in a classroom activity or session. Students are considered to be actively engaged in a class room session when they respond in a group , and its a sign that they are likely to learn the material being taught to them . The teacher can observe the students response to get a immediate feedback about whether the majority of students in the class are able to truly understand the academic content . There are three group response techniques 1. Response Cards 2. Choral Response 3. Hand raising Response cards: In this technique students respond as a group by displaying their response cards which displays their answers to the question posed by the teacher. Choral response: In this technique the students in a class or group respond orally in unison to the question posed by the teacher . Hand raising: In this technique, the teacher asks the question before calling upon an individual student who raised his/her hand. Why only response cards is preferred ? The use of response cards is one strategy that has shown promising initial results for increasing the frequency of active student response and sequent academic achievements during large group instructions . Response cards are reusable cards held up simultaneously by each student to indicate his or her answer. In this paper we will study about response cards in comparison with hand raisings , We will be comparing the factors like: (a) frequency of active student response (b) accuracy of student responses (c) teacher presentation rate Response cards As told earlier, Response cards is one type of group response techniques in which students respond as a group by displaying response cards which displays their answers to the question posed by the teacher. There are two response card formats. 1. cards with pre printed response choices 2. cards on which students write their response The teacher should introduce response cards by explaining and demonstrating their use and importance , letting the students to practice the response procedure so that they get familiar and proficient in using them . The teacher should maintain a quick , lively pace through the lesson , providing clues to the students about when to use response cards appropriately. Some students may inevitably display a wrong answer, then the teacher/instructor should focus on and provide feedback for the majority response Performance feedback: In giving feedback, the teacher should give information about whether the majority class response is correct , and immediately provide the correct response and supporting explanation if a significant number of students answered incorrectly . Those items missed by many students should be presented again later in the lesson to ensure that students have learned the material after corrective feedback. The instructor should also praise students periodically for appropriate and prompt use of the group response format. Additionally, The teacher should acknowledge and validate answers that differ from the instructor’s but could still be considered correct. Survey A study has been conducted in fifth grade classroom in an elementary school . There were 13 boys and 11 girls in the class, five students were selected for observation after consultation with their regular teacher . The target 5 students have been divide into two groups of 3 and 2 students each (sometimes this type of division can be considered as triangulation) ,and the student in each group were observed on the alternating trails . The class room is equipped with an overhead projector and screen . The questions to be asked are screened on the screen using projector . Using projector and screen had made the process of questioning the students more easier than the conventional way of questioning. The study involves two sessions: 1. HAND RAISING TECHNIQUES SESSION During Hand raising sessions the teacher poses a set of questions to the students, one of the students who raise their hand is called upon to give the response. In this technique only one student is involved in giving the response while the other students sit idle in the class . The teacher provides a praise for each correct response (e. g. , â€Å"Excellent [student’s name] ,The sun is a star. †) and a corrective feedback for incorrect response(e. g. ,† No, the answer is the sun, The sun is a star. †) The feedback procedure controls the number of times the students write/hear the correct answer to each instruction. 2. RESPONSE CARD SESSION Presentation and question asking procedures during the response card sessions were identical to those during the Hand raising sessions. For each student a laminated card is provided on which he/she has to write his/her response to the teachers question. After visually scanning all of the response cards held up by the students, the teacher provides a praise or a corrective feedback. If every one’s response in the class is correct the teacher addresses the feedback to whole class(e. g. , â€Å"Good class, water vapor in the atmosphere is a gas. †) and if some of the student responses are wrong the teacher addresses a feedback to the class (e. g. , â€Å" I see that many of you have gas as the answer . That is correct. Water vapor in atmosphere is gas. â€Å") and if no one gives correct response the teacher addresses a corrective feedback to the class ( e. g. , â€Å" I don’t see the correct answer . The correct answer is gas . Water vapor in atmosphere is a gas. †). As in Hand raising phases the feedback procedure controls the number of times the students write/hear the correct answer to each instruction in response card phase also . Results of the study During HR (hand raising) ,the average number of times the target student raised his/her hand was 9. 9 . The number of responses by the target student during HR averaged 1. 5 per session (the period of questioning) , when RC (response cards) were used , each target student responded to the teacher’s question an average of 21. 8 times per session, that’s a 14 fold increase . Overall, the students as a group orally responded 53 times to 1,103 questions posed in Hand raising phase and 68 times to 1,103 questions posed in the response card phase. So the frequency of the active students response was determined to be higher with response cards than with Hand raising technique. The accuracy of student responses during HR and RC are 92% and 93% respectively. Problems associated with response card techniques Q. When we use response cards in a class , we may notice that some students copy the responses from their neighbors’ cards instead of thinking of their own answers. What should we do then? Response cards provide children with a means of getting actively involved in the lesson. Therefore, children should not be discouraged from looking at each others cards, even if they appear to be copying the response of other students . Rather, the teacher should interpret this student behavior as a possible sign that the child may be confused about the task or may not yet have a firm grasp on the material being presented. In their instance, the instructor can make arrangements to provide the child with additional instruction and guidance as needed . Another problem associated with response cards is , the student may not be very sure of the spellings in his/ her response , so sometimes they try to hide their response instead of showing them up . So students shouldn’t be charged against such kind of mistakes. It should be made clear well before the question is posed that they wouldn’t be held against for such kind of mistakes . Instead ,their answers should be validated in spite of any spelling or grammatical mistakes . And in order to reduce the spelling difficulties , the instructor could : (1) Have students ‘pre practice’ the spelling of new vocabulary words prior to the lesson . (2) Post unfamiliar spelling terms on the board/ screen for students to refer to as they write their responses. (3) Encourage students to try their best in spelling their responses but reassure them that misspellings will not be counting against them. Discussions 1) Response cards allow the teacher to teach facts and definitions more effectively than any other group response techniques. 2) The rate of students’ academic content learning ability is more in RC than other techniques . 3) This technique is more reliable in increasing the frequency of active student response. 4) Response cards are less disruptive and stays more on task unlike hand raising technique. 5) The disadvantage of not being called upon in hand raising techniques is not present in response cards. So every student gets involved in the class. 6) There is more fun involved in this technique than the other techniques , so students will actively participate in the class instead of sitting idle . Response card techniques is replicable by any teacher as it involves no difficulty in implementing it in the class rooms. In fact they provide better results than other group response techniques . But the teachers shouldn’t handle the students in a rigor manner . Strictness , Harshness, Severity should be ruled out while dealing with students. Students preferences During the end of the study, personal interviews are conducted for students and many students said they preferred response card over hand raising as the response card helped them in learning more academic content than Hand raising did. Conclusion The study has proved that the use of response cards is most effective than other group response techniques because it has got more advantages than the other techniques illustrated in the paper and also it helps the students in increasing the learning ability , and makes more students to involve in the class room sessions more actively. References Heward. W. L (1996). Three low tech strategies for increasing the frequency of active student response during group instruction In R. Gardner ,D. M. Sainato,J. OCooper,T. E. Heron,W. L. Heward,J. W. Eshelman,T. A. Grossi (Eds) Behavior analysis in education :focus on measurably superior instruction(pp. 283-320). Pacific Grove ,CA:Brooks/Cole Journal of applied behavior analysis, 1994, spring ,R. Gardner, W. L. Heward, T. A. Grossi Teaching of psychology, Taylor and Francis group, Routledge publishers Meta analysis and research on response cards: Effects on test achievements, Randolph journal of positive behavior interventions. 2007,9:113-238

Fast Food Industry study of Pizza Hut

Fast Food Industry study of Pizza Hut Introduction A major transformation in business management is that organizations are trying to optimize every aspect of business. There has been a keen focus into every aspect of business which can give the organization a price or quality edge over its competitors. Effective Supply chain management (SCM) is capable of both the above mentioned advantages. If we look into the various components of SCM and analyze their significance in the context of the above we find that they are quite significant and capable of achieving price and quality edge over competitors. In this research the focus will be to study various factors influencing the supply chain management in fast food industry by referring to Pizza hut. The aspects associated to price quality and customer satisfaction will be covered through this research. The fast food industry has seen huge transformations in the recent past; the affect of these transformations on the supply chain management is also discussed in this research. Background As we know that supply chain manages the entire materials from suppliers (Suppliers of raw materials to the organization) to retailers and distributors to the customers. There are various disciplines involved in this system. for example the supplier relations management, inventory management, distribution system, retail management, reverse supply chain management. It has been observed that action in one discipline can influence the performance of the whole chain and similarly the performance of the organization. (T.J. Peters 1982à Ã‚ ¾ Riddalls 2002). More and more organizations / industries are identifying the significance of supply chain management. In terms of research there are three most researched issues in the whole supply chain management, they are; Information flow through supply chain Inventory / warehouse Management Operations Management (queuing system) The fast food industry is one of the most competitive industries. The competition majorly depends upon price, quality and service (which are core aspects of Supply Chain Management). Hence there is immense pressure on all the organizations in the fast food industry to keep the three aspects studied above to their supreme best. As fast food industry is one of the most emerged industries in the recent past, the supply chain has seen huge transformations in this industry. The industry is still emerging so as the transformations in the supply chain management of this industry. Hence this study helps the learner identify and understand the factors driving change and the factors influencing the supply chain performance. Few of the research questions and research objectives are underpinned; Research Questions This research will not only try to present the study associated with the title of the research but will also try to answer the questions mentioned below; What is the core meaning of supply chain? What is the significance of Supply Chain Management in fast food industry? What are the major components of Supply Chain Management? How significant is information sharing to keep the supply chain effective? What factors influence / drive supply chain management in fast food industry? How is demand forecast supply managed accurately? What is the impact of supply chain management on overall performance of Pizza Hut and in creating brand name for Pizza Hut? How does Pizza Hut manage their SC effectively? Similarly the research has set few objectives for itself to achieve in the course of this study. The research objectives are mentioned underneath; Research Objectives Aligned with research questions we have set few objectives for this research. They are listed underneath; To understand the supply chain practices in fast food industry To understand the difference between SCM practices in fast food industry and in other industries (manufacturing Service sector) To prove that effective core competencies can lead to competitive advantage Identify significance of various parties in the supply chain on the performance of the supply chain To understand the service level impact on the supply chain The organization / company chosen for this research Pizza hut was started in the year 1958 by two brothers Dan Frank Carney. This was an idea suggested by a common friend which they agreed to. In 1972 they introduced corporate strategy. In the mid 90s the profits of Pizza Hut were declining. Hence Dan Frank Carney thought of selling out the company. In the year 1997 Yum! Brands acquired pizza hut and is currently (Pizza hut) under Yum! Brands Highlight of Pizza hut is its variety in Pizza, garlic bread, pasta and breadsticks. In order to meet the production of the mentioned (menu) products pizza needs to co-ordinate all the suppliers of vegetables, chicken and bread and work in coordination with them. Keeping this aspect efficient is the key success factor of Pizza Hut. As we know that if an organization can manage its core competencies effectively they can surely act as competitive advantage for the company. As the ingredients for various products of pizza hut are acquired through various suppliers from different parts of the globe. There has to be proper communication to keep the supplies and demand under check. In order to keep this aspect effective the company has employed Total Quality Management (TQM) process. The strategic policy of Yum! Brands involve the suppliers to understand their role and impact in the overall performance of the organization. This keeps the supplier relations management aspect in place for the organization. Pizza Hut has restaurants and they also deliver their products to customers place. The supply chain in these cases differs. If it is served at the restaurant then it usually shortens the supply chain and if the product (pizza, pasta etc), then the supply chain has transportation included in the supply chain. Both these aspects will be discussed in detail in this study Limitations of the study As the research focuses on the supply chain management of fast food industry, there may be few differences in the supply chain then the supply chain of other industries. This research does not specifically answer questions which are out of the industry / focus of this research. The supply chain of fast food industry keeps changing in short intervals. We have focused this study on supply chain of Pizza hut. This may answer the general questions with the supply chain of fast food industry but may not answer the specific questions of other organizations. Literature review Supply chain plays a critical role in maintain the organizations brand image and service levels in the market. In this section we will speak about Supply Chain Management (SCM) in general first and then will confine it to the fast food industry. Supply chain is the term used to define the parties involved in the process of meeting customer demand. The parties involved in the supply chain are Suppliers Manufacturers / producers Distributors Retailers customers (Riddalls, C.E., Bennett, S., 2002) (Stanley E. Fawcett and Gregory N. 2004) A brief of their role in the supply chain in underpinned; As we know that supply chain management is a discipline that manages and controls the flow of information throughout the various departments to meet the customer demands. The supply chain starts from the extreme beginning of the manufacturing process i.e. acquiring the raw materials from the suppliers or in other words choosing the suppliers and ends at the extreme end of the production process i.e. the customers. (Raghavan, N.R.S., Viswanadham, N., 2001) The members or parties of the supply chain are briefed below; Suppliers: suppliers are a significant party in the supply chain. The raw materials are supplied / acquired through this resource. In terms of quality of materials / products the suppliers are held responsible. The price of the product depends upon the price of the raw material as well and the supply of raw material will influence the companys ability to meet the customer demand at the right time. Hence we can say that suppliers have a great impact on the price of the product and companys ability to meet the customers demand on time. (Riddalls, C.E., Bennett, S., 2002) Manufacturers / Producers: These are the members who convert raw materials / semi finished goods to finished goods. The production process is significant as the company judges the quality and attributes of the process in this phase; hence manufacturers also influence the quality of the product. (Riddalls, C.E., Bennett, S., 2002) Distributors: These are people who are responsible to make the product reach to the market (retailers). The distributors can be also termed as marketing intermediaries. There are various aspects associated with marketing of a product and choosing the right distributors. The reach of the distributor will always be directly proportional to the availability of the product in the market. (Riddalls, C.E., Bennett, S., 2002) Retailers: These are people who are at the end of the supply chain. In other words these are the people who sell the product to the customers (supermarkets, stores etc). They are one of the significant members in the supply chain as they are in direct contact with the customers. They represent the product on behalf of manufacturer to the customers. The demand and customer feedback can be analyzed at this level. (Riddalls, C.E., Bennett, S., 2002) Customers: These are the end users of the products. Customers were not considered as a part of supply chain, but the contemporary methods and study has added customers into the supply chain. (Riddalls, C.E., Bennett, S., 2002) The significance of these parties in the supply chain varies in context to industries. Few of the terms involved in SCM are underpinned; Inventory size This helps the organization decide the amount (size) of inventory to be ordered. This is one of the significant aspects in the fast food industry as this helps the organization not only order the right quantity but also meet the customers needs with minimum resources possible. (Raghavan, N.R.S., Viswanadham, N., 2001) Replenishment Lead Time This refers to the time between placing an order and acquiring the raw material. Usually lead time is always considered as an entity that makes the supply chain ineffective (loss in supply chain). (Raghavan, N.R.S., Viswanadham, N., 2001) Stock outs Stock outs are very common in every trade. This is a situation that arises due to miscommunications in supply chain parties, lack of analysis, bad demand and sales forecasting. Safety stock This is the excess stock that a firm maintains to manage demand fluctuations. The safety stock is maintained at the lowest levels as most of the firms are efficient in sales forecasting. Reorder Point This is a point in inventory levels wherein the firm feels the need to order more inventories. SPECIFIC TO FAST FOOD INDUSTRY Fast food is referred to food which can be cooked easily and can be eaten quickly. There are various food chains across the world, which are famous for fast food. If we look into the history of the fast food industry, the roots of fast food are from 1920s and from 1950s this industry saw a rapid growth. There are many reasons for this transformation in food habits of people. People were busy and did not find time to cook food or even to wait for long hours after ordering food. There arose the term fast food. The Asians (Specifically Chinese) are responsible for this term and industry. There lies the secret behind the customer expectations. Customers expect food to be served quickly, should be delicious and should be healthy. In this scenario all the parties of the supply chain play a major role in meeting this expectation. (Tony Hines, 2004) Few of the objectives of supply chain management in fast food industry are mentioned underneath; Supply chain planning This sets the chain direction and the strategies associated with all the aspects of supply chain. This is the overall sketch of the supply chain. (David Simchi-Levi, Philip Kaminsky and Edith Simchi-Levi, 2004) Procurement This is the process of selecting a supplier and managing healthy and profitable relation with them. This also helps the organization maintain quality of their products. (David Simchi-Levi, Philip Kaminsky and Edith Simchi-Levi, 2004) Inventory management This process helps the organization maintain right level of stock in the organization and eliminate stock outs with variation in demand for the product. (David Simchi-Levi, Philip Kaminsky and Edith Simchi-Levi, 2004) Packaging This is a discipline that helps in ensuring right package design and reducing the cost by encouraging the recycling process of packaging. (David Simchi-Levi, Philip Kaminsky and Edith Simchi-Levi, 2004) Warehousing This is the process of storing the raw material, semi finished and finished goods. Effective storage and correct warehouse design can reduce the overall cost of the product (eliminates transportation cost to a certain extent) and improve the availability of the product. The other factors in this discipline are safety of the product, storage methods and locations of the warehouses. (David Simchi-Levi, Philip Kaminsky and Edith Simchi-Levi, 2004) Transportation This process refers to transportation management of goods. This includes all the possible modes of transferring goods from one location to another. The records maintenance are also included in this aspect. (David Simchi-Levi, Philip Kaminsky and Edith Simchi-Levi, 2004) Logistics This is referred to the use of technology in maintaining all the disciplines of supply chain effectively. The use of softwares is a trend in logistics management (CRM softwares). (David Simchi-Levi, Philip Kaminsky and Edith Simchi-Levi, 2004) Customer Service and marketing This refers to meeting the customer expectations effectively and creating new opportunities through customer service. This is one of the major aspects that organizations are focusing in contemporary business world. (David Simchi-Levi, Philip Kaminsky and Edith Simchi-Levi, 2004) The entire above mentioned are effective ways to remain competent, exist and grow in the market. Therefore managing supply chain effectively can help the business prosper. There are few other associated concepts which have an influence on the supply chain, one of them is Bull Whip Effect. Bull Whip Effect This is referred to sudden increase in customer demand that forces the supply chain to reconsider its strategy and rearrange the stocks in the supply chain. This forces the management to include more stocks into the system to meet the increased product demand. The Bull whip effect always flows in reverse direction to the flow of products. I.e. starting with realtor and ending it with the supplier of raw materials to the manufacturers. (Raghavan, N.R.S., Viswanadham, N., 2001), (Peter D Ball, 2006) There are various reasons of Bull Whip Effect; few of them are mentioned underneath; Under estimation of demand Wrong sales report Inefficiencies Lead time management Miscommunication in the supply chain (Peter D Ball 2006) Hence we can say that effective communication (information flow) in the supply chain is significant. The fast food industry cannot store the stock (Raw materials) in advance. Most of the products are vegetables and souses, which need to be fresh. Hence effective supply chain management is required. It has been observed that the major focus of most of the fast food chains is to improve the service levels (quality of the product and delivery time to the customers). Recently it has also been observed that in developing countries such as India, Pakistan, Srilanka and others, the fast food industry is focusing on the quantity and price factors. Once again this can be achieved through effective supply chain management. Research methodology Research methodology plays a vital role in the outcome of every research. There are various aspects, which a researcher needs to consider, before during and after gathering data for a research. Few of the aspects are presented underneath and are discussed in the context of the research. (Cooper, D. Schindler, P. 1998) Research approach There are various research approaches possible. Few of them are underpinned; Inductive approach Deductive approach Qualitative approach Quantitative approach (Saunders, M., Lewis, P. Thornhill, A. 2003) A brief of the above four is given below; Inductive approach: The term itself indicates that this process starts with a point and ends up adding information and few more points on the way through to making general interpretations about the research topic. (Saunders, M., Lewis, P. Thornhill, A. 2003) Deductive approach: This refers to an approach that starts with few concepts and theories and tries to confine the subject in the context of the research focus. This is one of the widely used approaches to reach to a conclusion in general researches to add more specific information to existing concepts. (Saunders, M., Lewis, P. Thornhill, A. 2003) Qualitative approach: This approach relies on the existing theories and practices. In other words this approach is based on the tested and proven methods. The available literature is the major source in this approach. This is called qualitative as the research results can be more reliable then compared to other methods / approaches of research. (Saunders, M., Lewis, P. Thornhill, A. 2003) Quantitative approach: This is one of the widely used research approaches. This approach relies on a wider study and does not majorly rely on the literature, instead will take a concept or theory from the existing literature and will research about it in the environment (surroundings). This is one of the approach used to make general interpretations about a concept or theory. The major methods of this research approach are surveys, questionnaire, interviews etc. (Saunders, M., Lewis, P. Thornhill, A. 2003) The research approach for this research will not be restricted to any of the research approaches. We will use all the approaches possible to keep this study effective. As there are various factors influencing the supply chain and the fast food industry is specific, hence we will try to emanate the drawbacks of various approaches and will use all possible methods to gather pertinent and result oriented data. Research Strategy Research strategy for every research is significant. As we know that this influences the outcome of the research, hence we have decided to formulate two questionnaires for gathering data. One will focus on the management and the other will focus on the experiences of the customers. This will also help in covering all the aspects in this research. For this research we will also contact few industry experts to analyse the interpretations and results of the research to keep it effective. Data sources There are various sources through which data can be gathered. The data for any research can be divided into two categories. They are; Research specific data (Primary data) Supporting data (secondary data) The above two are explained in brief below; Research Specific data This is also known as primary data. The term itself indicates that this data is specific to the research. The data that is gathered to answer the set research questions is known as primary data. The major sources for gathering data in this category are interviews, focus groups, surveys, observations, questionnaires, telephonic interviews, etc (Bryman, A. Bell, E. 2003) Supporting data This refers to the data that fills the gaps left by the primary data. As the major function of this data is to support the research, hence this is known as supporting data. This data is not research specific, instead is gathered from the available literature or some other pertinent research. The major sources through which this data can be gathered are academic books, magazines, newspapers, internet, etc (Bryman, A. Bell, E. 2003) The data for this research will be gathered through formulating two questionnaires and using two methods. First we will try to contact the management of Pizza hut through email and take their responses on the questionnaire; the second will be to carry-out a general survey in public to know about the customer service (and associate it with the effectiveness of the supply chain). We will also utilize the secondary sources such as Internet to gather pertinent data to make the research effective. Data Analysis There are various aspects that a research needs to focus before, during and after gathering data for a research. These aspects help the researcher keep the data effective in the context of the study. Few of the aspects are listed below; Validity: This refers to the relevance of variables in the study. As we know that there are various variables in a research. This aspects ensures that the data gathered should be relative to the research. In other words these aspects state that there has to be inter-connectivity between the focus of the research and the data gathered. (Ghauri, R. Gronhaug, K. 2005) We will try to gather relevant data and will avoid vagueness in data. The data gathered will be confined to the research focus but will also try to remain neutral to answer various other research associated questions. Reliability: This aspect refers to neutral (correct or accurate) and bias free results. In other words this aspect states that if the same data is used again for a similar research the results of the research should be similar. This also states that there should be any biased interpretation or should be a favor for any person or organization through this research. (Ghauri, R. Gronhaug, K. 2005) We will not only stay neutral while interpreting the findings and framing the results of this research, but will also send the results to few industry experts to seek their view. This will eliminate the bias aspect from the research and will keep the research effective. Generalizability: This refers to the spectrum covered by the research answers in resolving the general issues. In other words the results of the research should be able to answer a wide range of real time issues. (Ghauri, R. Gronhaug, K. 2005) We will try to keep the results as general as possible and will also try to cover as many issues as possible. Authenticity of data sources: This is one of the significant aspects of any research. The data gathered should be from reliable sources. The authenticity of data sources defines the effectiveness of the research. (Collis, J. Hussey, R. 2009) We will try to gather data from authentic sources. As we have formulated questionnaires and are gathering data through sources which are reliable, I believe we can surely guarantee the authenticity of data sources. Ethical Issues This refers to the methods used for gathering data. The ethical issues are quite significant for every researchs credibility towards the society. This includes a code of conduct that states that the methods used for data gathering and research should not include any method that is illegal or unacceptable. The methods or results of the research should not harm any person / firm / industry. (Crowther, D. Lancaster, G. 2009) The methods used for this research will be decided by keeping the above code of conduct in mind and will not include any such methods which fall out of the code of conduct. We will try to keep the work ethical and free from any bias. PROJECT PLAN Weeks 0-2 3-4 5-6 7-8 9-10 11-12 13-14 15 Background Reading Research Proposal Theoretical framework Primary Secondary Data gathering Report Making Submission Conclusion Supply chain management plays a significant role in managing resources and effective customer service irrespective of industry. The fast food industry is customer driven and the service level plays a significant role in creating expectations with the customers. The fast food industry (Specifically Pizza hut) will be studied in the context of the supply chain extensively and the research results will be framed. We will study all the associated aspects and will try to cover all the potential issues under the focus of the research. We will keep the research bias free and ethical to the extreme possibility.

Ms Simulation Reflective Report Marketing Essay

Ms Simulation Reflective Report Marketing Essay Motor vehicle industry is growing industries in the world. Demand for vehicles is so high globally which makes the industry to be innovative and creative to meet the changing needs and wants of the people. Our company was among other StratSim companies formed for the purpose of simulation within the Vehicle manufacturing industries. Our firm was firm D with the vehicles ranging from Economic (Delite), Family (Defy) and Truck (Dusty) for the value seekers, family oriented and singles within the given regions. 2.0 OUR COMPANY MISSION AND VISION STATEMENT As our initial budget, market position and cash flow was similar to other Stratsim firms and therefore our mission is to increase sales and provide the customers with the safety and quality standard vehicles to gain highest returns while at the same time remaining low cost producers in comparison to our competitors. Our vision is to make available the vehicles which our customers require in the best and affordable prices and standards. 3.0 EXTERNAL AND INTERNAL ANALYSIS Internal and external analysis is when different factors are analysed from within the firm and around the competitors and industry as a whole to give the precise position of the firm and its performance standards. 3.1 PESTEL Political: As this was a simulation and not the real world firm there were no many implications on political instabilities within the region. In the real world though there are government instabilities which can hinder the operations of the firm such as change in government, introduction of new legislations, Ethical requirements by government etc. Economical: In Period one the economy and gas prices were stable suitable for the greater sales. The industry expenditure was also flat to $1,505 million. In the period 5 the economy grew better than expected which gave rise to the vehicle sales. However crude oil prices had gone high by the end of the period 4. Initially was $3 p/gal and then forecasted to rise to $4.90 by period 6. This was a concern for the coming periods as inflation seemed to be ranging from 2% to 2.5%. Industry marketing expenditure also increased by $ 206 million to $1,977 million and GDP rose to 2.5% by period 5 while initially was 1.0%. Social: Highest class is the family segment with the sales units (000) 4,706 out of which our firm had 12.3% share by period 5 which was a decrease as initial share was 14.3%. The second value seekers who mostly go for economic vehicles to with the total sales 1,327,000 and we hold the share of 10.9% by period 5. And the singles segment was mainly aimed for the trucks and their total sales 1,233,000 out of which we hold 11.9%. Our concerned were the value seekers, families and singles and not segments like high income earners and enterprisers. Technological: In the simulation game the technology was limited to development centres, interior, styling, safety and quality. Cargo space, braking system, reliability and durability of the vehicles are the main technically concentrated areas. In todays vehicle industry aspects such as noise, speed, digital dashboards, stylish folding seats and other features are emphasized. With the simulation the maximum feasible for the development centres was 5 and ours was 2, while interior maximum was 11 and out of which our firm was having 4, styling maximum was 12 and we were rating to 6, safety was 11 and we were rated 5 and quality was maximum 12 out of which we rated 6. Environmental: This was not a major concern though lead free vehicles with minimum noise structure are preferred. Vehicles with good fuel consumption are opted by majority of the customers and therefore help in preserving our environment. Legal: Laws on labour, vehicle manufacturing, registration and many others normally affect the vehicle industries but in the case of simulation this was not a concern though it was believed that the firm is in compliance with all the necessary legal requirements such as safety, quality, ethics etc. PORTERS FIVE FORCES ANALYSIS Porter 5 forces are used to determine the intensity of the competition and evaluate the actual position that the firm is holding. Summary of the Five Forces: Bargaining power of suppliers Bargaining power of customers Threat of substitute Threat of new entrants Competition within/rivalry HIGH 7 firms competing head to head within the industry HIGH As there are 7 firms in total within the industry depending upon the same supplier MODERATE Motor bikes, Bicycles or use of public transport LOW As high investments required, customers buying power and high technological cost HIGH As there are 7 firms within the industry serving the same segments e.g. family, economic and truck Threat of New Entrants: is low due to high investments requirement, high customer buying power and high technological cost incurred to establish and maintain the firm. Though in the simulation the threat is low as the appointed firms are the only ones competing. This leads to growth as managers can concentrate on available competition therefore make more strategic decisions. Threat of Substitutes: this is moderate as due to high traffic jams, pollution and environmental awareness many of the people opt for motor bikes, bicycles or using public transport instead of owning a vehicle. But most of our sales were basing on the family vehicles which means family people would of course still prefer having a convenience means of transport for the whole family and also those who need to carry bulky goods would rather have a truck or spacious vehicle then using the alternatives. Bargaining Power of Suppliers: is high though it is not specified within the simulation but is evident as 7 firms depend on the minimum number of suppliers and therefore this gives the upper hand to the supplier to bargain a good deal out of their buyers. This restricts the managements decision to be cost effective as manufacturing cost is increased with the suppliers bargaining power. Bargaining Power of Buyers: is high as there are 7 firms producing similar vehicles with very less differentiated features if any in the same segments of economy, family and truck therefore giving the buyers more choices to select from before buying the vehicles. This is good in a way management can be innovative to bring out best vehicles to offer to buyers but also restricts on the price bases as customers have the upper hand. Rivalry/competition: is high as there are 7 firms competing head to head to gain higher market share and returns and therefore gives an intensified competition to all the firms. This is healthy to some point as it gives the challenge to managers but it is a threat as when firm fails to provide better and reasonable vehicles compared to the rivals. SWOT ANALYSIS SWOT ANALYSIS helps the firm analyse its internal as well as external capabilities. Whereby strengths and weaknesses are internal, opportunity and threats are external. A firm is required to identify its strengths to overcome its weaknesses and capture opportunities and minimise threat. INTERNAL EXTERNAL Strength Weakness Opportunity Threat Ability to manage debts -cash flow management -positive income -Poor cost management -Low capabilities in terms of development centers Growing economy Emerging market 4M Increase Fuel prices Increased inflation Intensive competition Strength: The ability to manage debts and have a slight increase from period 1 to period 5 by $1,125. Our cash flow management was good as we had enough money in circulation and in the firm to carry out operations smoothly unlike other firms who had gone negative in the cash flow. (Appendix 1 2). We are among the 2nd firm that managed to keep their income levels positive unlike others who went negative. (See appendix 3) Weakness: Our main weakness was our cost management. Our sales were increasing by period 5 they reached $15, 54.8 an increase of $550.5 since period 2 but our costs were also increasing and therefore reducing our net income which came to $38.7 in period 5 while it was $ 587.1 in period 2. (Appendix 4) Opportunity: the growing economy and emerging new market 4m as per the research was the opportunity towards the firm. (Appendix 5) All we needed to do was utilize our strength to minimize our weakness and capture this appealing opportunity before our competitors do. Threat: Increasing prices of crude oil and increase in inflation percent is the main concern for the firm. Competition is also fierce from the financial summary of the overall industry we are placed at 2nd last position in terms of value market share which we hold 11.4% of the total market. (Appendix 3) STRATEGIC DECISIONS A strategy is the action plan for of the organisation to achieve organisation goals and gain competitive advantage over the rivals and achieve maximum returns for the stakeholders. BASIC STRATEGY APPLIED: The firm was in a similar situation as its competitors when the simulation started and therefore our first strategy was to increase our technological capabilities in order to differentiate our vehicles from those of the competitors. We also aimed at increasing sales as our mission explains and therefore we increased our budget for product marketing by $2 million initially. As we were not familiar with the outcome, yet we had achieved greatly by increased return on sales from 3.4% to 3.9% and increased return on assets by 6.4% to 8.2%. Later we increased on promotions and advertising as we believed that its the only way to position our product in the mind of the customers in order to increase sales. Later on we decided to upgrade our vehicles according to quality and safety requirements to all of our vehicles but that did not give the kind of returns we were hoping for. We also increased our plant capacity by 300(000s) in order to facilitate better manufacturing. We also increased our inventory as we were running short to the demand; we had also increased awareness in south and west regions where we saw we were lacking back in terms of sales units. We had also increased our relationship with underperforming dealers by increasing their discount from 8% to 9% so that they are motivated to sale more of our vehicles in their perspective regions. We had also increased the budget for the training and developing our dealers to be able to understand our vehicles better so that they can believe in our product and sale more. FUTURE STRATEGY: We still continue to emphasise our future strategies to such that will enable us to increase our sales volume and give us the highest returns. We intend to take advantage of the new market that is identified by the market research (Appendix 5). This will be achieved by being more innovative and customer oriented so that we serve our customers with what they require. We also intend to increase our technological capabilities as technology is dynamic and therefore all efforts will be made to keep up with the changing technology to give our customers the most stylish, safe, spacious and most of all quality vehicles. This would be value for their money. 5.0 EXPERIENCES AND LEARNING The simulation was a great learning experience. It increased my knowledge obtained from academic teachings and gave me ability to use them to the real world scenario. We had planed our team in such a way that one member logs in with his user name and password and feeds the decisions for the period, though the decisions were discussed and come to conclusion by all of the team members this enabled us to divide our work and come up with final decision which boosted our knowledge base to the great extent. The following are among the few of what I had experienced during the simulation exercise: The ability to make decision on various aspects of the business such as marketing, manufacturing, technological etc. How to grow as a firm and sustain the growth with the resources available Learnt how to analyse different internal and external factors affecting the firm and know where our firm stands in the industry (Bench Marking) Monitor inventory turnover period and re-stock when necessary. Experienced the competition and discover ways to overcome. Learned how to forecast future sales, identify opportunities and establish good relationship with dealers. Learned how important marketing and promotion is for the growth of the sales and overall business and also to position our products in the minds of targeted customers. Learnt to be customer oriented and understand their needs and produce according to their requirements. (Segmenting and targeting) Learnt how to manage costs and overall cash flow. Last but not the least the major learning and experience was the team work was essential in any business and decision making. Organising team work and group discussions were among the major experiences of simulation. CONCLUSION In conclusion I can say firm D has performed reasonably well compared to the situation and experience team members had. Though our sales didnt increase to our expectations but yet we had maintained the positive income unlike other firms who had gone negative on cash flows as well as incomes. We could have done better with better decision making in aspects such as new product development to give our customers customised vehicle, more emphasis could have been made to our product upgrade and manufacturing in order to meet the growing demand especially for the family segment as it is the growing in demand vehicle in the industry. All in all it was a good attempt in my view and even better learning experience for all our group members which not only increased our academic knowledge and gave us good real life decision making experience but it also increased our social interactions within the group which in itself is a learning achievement.

Against California Proposition 2 Essay -- Farm Management Animal

In the November 2008 General Election, citizens of the state of California will be asked to consider many issues affecting the state as a whole. Out of the many propositions to be decided upon, Proposition Two has become one of particular interest. Currently, forty million animals are being raised on California farms for production of milk, dairy, cattle, and chickens: given these very large numbers and increased consumer awareness of current management practice, there has been an increase in concern for ethical treatment and welfare of livestock within the public. Proposition Two challenges standards of confinement for livestock, specifically: veal crates, battery cages and gestation crates. Veal crates are restricted areas in which calves (young domestic cattle) are reared for slaughter. Battery cages are enclosures in which multiple female chickens are housed to lay their eggs, and similar to veal and battery cages, gestation crates are areas of restricted space in which female pi gs are housed during periods of pregnancy. If passed, Proposition Two would require all farming operations as of January 1, 2015 to house these farm animals in areas where they are able to extend their wings or limbs to full potential1. Although confinement of livestock and poultry is a well-established practice, modern housing does not allow animals to exhibit most normal behaviors3. Research has shown that animals held in restricted cage areas suffer from unnecessary stress and are unable to maintain normal bone structure, most commonly in the limbs and/or wings. The larger cages suggested by Proposition Two might provide a great deal of opportunities to supplement the wellbeing of animals and the quality of the products that they produce. Most... ... eggs in the United States. As evidence indicates, the greatest impact of Proposition Two will be felt by the California egg industry6. Proposition Two is also risk to the safety of farm animal, the products they produce, and decreases sanitation practices in comparison to modern housing. Under the conditions of Proposition Two, livestock would be at a higher risk of contracting communicable diseases in comparison to the disease/infection risks posed by current caging methods. Proposition Voting no on Proposition Two will keep the animal agriculture business and its animals safe and healthy while keeping the California egg industry secure. Proposition Two appears to be a measure with great potential for both the animal welfare and animal agriculture, but in reality, studies and research have concluded that Proposition Two is a detriment to both animals and humans.

Carpe Diem Theme in the Work of Ronsard and Edmund Waller :: essays papers

Carpe Diem Theme in the Work of Ronsard and Edmund Waller â€Å"Seize the Day.† This is most commonly known as the Latin phrase â€Å"Carpe Diem†. For some this is just a phrase, but in classic literature, it is a way of living and writing. This theme was revived during the Renaissance period and it made its influence in Italian, English, and French poetry. The simplest way to describe the theory of â€Å"carpe diem† is to say, â€Å"eat, drink, and be merry, for tomorrow you shall die.† It means that life should be lived to the fullest everyday, just like it was going to be the last. The rose is a very important symbol used in literary work containing â€Å"carpe diem.† It is because the poet can use imagery to describe the youth and beauty of the rose, along with the death and suffering. Ronsard was one of the many poets to use this theme. An example of one of his poems is â€Å"Roses.† In this poem he uses allegory, which is like an extended metaphor, to create the imagery of roses and to compare them to the beauty of the women he is in love with. He wants to tell her that he appreciates her beauty and that he will love her forever. In Edmund Waller’s poem, â€Å"Go, Lovely Rose,† he compares the love of his life to a gorgeous rose. He tells her to come forth and be thankful for her great beauty. He tells her in the poem, â€Å"Bid her come forth, suffer herself to be desired, and blush not so to be admired.† He is trying to tell her to enjoy her beauty now, because tomorrow may be her last. He is using the rose as a metaphor for his lover’s beauty. Ronsard also uses â€Å"carpe diem† in the poem â€Å"When You are Old.† The speaker of this poem is a scored, self-pitying lover. The speaker is longing for his lover to reciprocate his love. He is trying to convey to them to appreciate him now because, when he is† thin and ghost beneath the earth,† then they will be mourning, because they didn’t take the chance while they had it.

Key Events in the Civil Rights Movement Essay -- Civil Rights Equality

The Civil Rights Movement started with The Montgomery Bus Boycott. The Boycott officially started on December 1, 1955. Rosa Parks was an Educated women and she attended the laboratory school at Alabama State College. Even with that kind of education she decided to become a seamstress because of the fact that she could not find a job to suit her skills. Rosa Parks was arrested December 1955. Rosa Parks Entered a bus with three other blacks and sat on the fifth row. The fifth row was the first row the black could occupy. After a few stops later the rows in front of them where filled with whites. According to the law at the time blacks and whites could not occupy the same row. There had been one white man left with out a seat. The bus driver had told the four to move so the white man had a place to sit. The other three that was with Rosa Parks had moved. Rosa Parks however did not. She refused and was arrested. E.D. Nixon post bond for Rosa Parks. He told her that with her permission they could break segregation from buses with her case. Jo Ann Robinson made flyers and distributed them with her students. The flyers urged people to stay off the buses on Monday the day Rosa Parks case was due. Martin Luther King, Jr. a minister thought that if they could 60 percent of the blacks to stay off the buses the boycott would be a success. Martin Luther King Jr. thought he saw a miracle when he saw bus after bus pass his house with no blacks in them. That night they had called a meeting him and other ministers and blacks of the community which they called there self (MIA) Montgomery Improvement Association. They elected King the president of the group. They had a decision to make whether or not to continue with boycott or not. Then E.D. Nixon rose to speak: ?What's the matter with you people? Here you have been living off the sweat of these washerwomen all these years and you have never done anything for them. Now you have a chance to pay them back, and you're too damn scared to stand on your feet and be counted! The time has come when you men is going to have to learn to be grown men or scared boys.? The MIA had then decided to let the people vote on whether or not to let the boycott continue or not. They held a mass meeting and it was obvious to see that they decided to continue with the boycott. When the boycott began no one had expected for it to ... ...a return to Montgomery, where the civil rights movement had started ten years earlier with the Montgomery Bus Boycott. A few months later, blacks had reason to rejoice again. It was truly a day for celebration. On August 6, 1965, President Johnson signed the Voting Rights Act into law. By 1969, 61% of voting-age blacks in America were registered to vote, compared to 23% in 1964. The Selma to Montgomery march clearly showed both how far American blacks had come and how far they still had to go. Ten years ago blacks could barley do anything and now they are equally treated how they are suppose to be. During the movement mainly great people died. The sacrifices they made help make America what it is today. The movement was from 1955-1965, those years where some of the hardest years for America. We overcome our differences and now everyone is equal. This report was based on The Civil Rights Movement. Websites http://www.mecca.org/~crights/cyber.html http://www.cr.nps.gov/nr/travel/civilrights/ http://www.infoplease.com/spot/civilrightstimeline1.html Books Voices of Freedom: An Oral History of the Civil Rights Movement The Origins of the Civil Rights Movement

Critique of Sartre’s Concept of “Existence Precedes Essence” Essay

Existentialism evolved as an attempt to come up with an authentic response to the existential angst of modern man in search of his identity and place in existence. Perhaps the very first existentialist thinker and philosopher in history, Socrates, put fundamental stress on the enquiry of the question â€Å"Who am I? † On the other hand, the twentieth century philosopher with whom the movement of existentialism is most commonly associated with, Sartre, says that with man, existence precedes essence. That is to say, there is no essence as such which man can discover inside his being. He has to create it, as it were, from nothing, through his efforts and choices. This is the central tenet of Sartre’s brand of existentialism. In a way, it sounds very pessimistic, but at the same time, such an observation can lead us to realize the freedom of man’s being, inspiring us to attain greater meaning in our lives. Sartre’s stance seems to be very heroic, and his attitude can fill us with new energy to act and create. However, as we shall see, considered purely on a logical and philosophical basis, his theory rings completely hollow, indeed as hollow as the â€Å"nothingness† he talks about. In his essay â€Å"Existentialism as Humanism† Sartre most eloquently sets out to clarify what exactly is meant by existentialism in the proper sense of the word. This he does with amazing simplicity, putting the essence of the philosophical system of which he is one of foremost proponents just in three words: existence precedes essence. If God does not exist, there is at least one being in whom existence precedes essence, a being who exists before he can be defined by any concept, and that this being is man, or, as Heidegger says, human reality. (p. 349) Sartre proceeds to explain us the meaning of these two concepts essence and existence and the two view points based on them, namely â€Å"essence precedes existence† and â€Å"existence precedes essence,† in a very lucid style. Sartre gives the example of a simple object, a paper cutter, to illustrate how in the case of this object essence precedes existence, and how it is the other way around in humans. To enter into a â€Å"conversation† with Sartre, however, I would like to provide the example of a simple machine here, a typewriter, to illustrate the same point. Like a paper cutter, a typewriter too is mass-produced, according to a predetermined model. Therefore, a typewriter is clearly an instance of essence preceding existence. Now let us take a very high power computer. This computer is as much mass-produced and made according to a preexisting model as a simple typewriter, here too essence precedes existence. However, whereas a typewriter can do only one thing in a fairly rigid manner, a computer can do a million things in an absolutely flexible style. A typewriter is like an animal, a one-dimensional creature. A powerful computer, on the other hand, is more like a human being, a multidimensional entity. An existentialist like Sartre could easily make a claim that in the case of typewriter, essence precedes existence, and in the case of the computer, existence precedes essence. But this is patently wrong. A computer is also made on a pre-existing model, as much as a typewriter is. The existence of a computer is also based on the premise of essence preceding existence as much as that of any manufactured object. Only, the specific nature of tasks it is going to perform depends on the software loaded unto it, and other ways it is programmed. The computer cannot just do absolutely anything, it has its limitations. Human beings too have their limitations, but within these limitations they have an immense choice and freedom to determine what they are going to do and what they are going to be. The statement that â€Å"Man is nothing but what he makes of himself† may sound very good in pep talk, campaign speech or inspirational poetry. But it could be plain absurd, when we consider its philosophical implications. Man has a given â€Å"nature† – his freedom, limitations and identity are defined by it. For instance, what can man think, achieve, or create without the enormous intelligence endowed to him. Man is intelligent, by nature – there is nothing man has done about it. He can further sharpen his intelligence and use it to the best of his ability, or stop using it and become stupid — only this much freedom and scope exists with man. Simply because such scope and freedom exists, one cannot claim that in human beings existence precedes essence. Existence preceding essence would imply that humans are nothing by themselves, that whatever they want to make of themselves they have to strive to become that. Sartre and other existentialists seem to be completely unfamiliar with any basic concepts of psychology. In fact if existentialism were true, there cannot exist any subject called human psychology. Because, according to Sartre, there is nothing like pre-existing human nature. Thus, there is no human nature, because there is no God to have a conception of it. Man simply is. Not that he is simply what he conceives himself to be, but he is what he wills and as he conceives himself after already existing – as he wills to be after that leap towards existence. Man is nothing else but that which he makes himself. That is the first principle of existentialism. And this is what people call its â€Å"subjectivity† using the word as a reproach against us. (p. 349) The assertion that â€Å"Man simply is† is simply delusional. I would not call this viewpoint by the term ‘subjectivity’, whatever it means. I would call it plain nonsense. If there is no human nature, then what are all psychologists studying and exploring? In fact, by the time of Sartre, there already was a William James, a Freud, and a Jung – not to speak of Pavlov, Watson and other behaviorists who equate man to an animal; the study of human psychology was very much diversified and in a rather mature stage. Yet, here comes Sartre and declares that man is free, that he can make absolutely anything out of himself just as he wills – almost magically, as it were!