Kellogs Case free essay sample

Using two motivation theories of your choice, explain a) the similarities and the b) differences between the two theories. Among the various motivation theories, I chose Herzberg’s theory of motivation and Maslow’s hierarchy of needs. a) Similarities Herzberg is the person responsible for the birth of the two-dimensional paradigm of factors affecting people’s attitudes about work. This is sometimes called the two-factor theory. The factors involved are: hygiene factors and motivators. The presence of hygiene factors or dissatisfiers relate to the situation in which the person does what he or she does while motivators or the satisfiers relates to what a person does. Maslow introduced his hierarchy of needs which is about how people satisfy various personal needs in the context of their work. He also theorized that a person could not recognize or pursue the next higher need in the hierarchy until his or her currently recognized need was substantially or completely satisfied. We will write a custom essay sample on Kellogs Case or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page The two aforementioned theories are similar in the context of recognizing that there are several factors/needs that affect a person’s attitude towards work. Particularly in Herzberg’s theory, factors may satisfy or dissatisfy a workers performance in the company; it can make them or break them. While Maslow’s hierarchy of needs stated that there are needs which one by one should be satisfied, so as to improve his capabilities as a person or as a worker in a company. These stages should be slowly and completely satisfied before going up on the pyramid of needs. So in onclusion, these two theories common denominator is the satisfaction of one’s needs for them to function more positively. In addition to their similarities, Herzberg’s hygiene factors and motivators are the same as the physiological needs in Maslow’s hierarchy of needs. b) Differences Herzberg’s theory of motivation involves the hygiene factors and motivators. These factors are different in a way that hygiene factors are called dissatisfiers while motivators are the satisfiers. Such factors like the company policy, interpersonal relations, supervision, working conditions and salary are hygiene factors. The absence of hygiene factors can create job dissatisfaction, but their presence does not motivate or create satisfaction. Motivators on the other hand, are the factors that enriched a person’s job. There are five determinants of motivators; achievement, recognition, works itself, responsibility and advancement. Maslow’s hierarchy of needs is named as follows, beginning from the bottom on the pyramid to the top; physiological needs, safety needs, social needs, esteem needs and self-actualization. As individuals satisfy one level of need, their motivation change as they aspire to reach the higher order needs. Physiological needs are thirst, hunger and sex. Safety needs are security, stability and protection. Social needs are the escape to loneliness, love and belongingness, to love and be loved. Esteem needs are self-respect, the respect to others. Self-actualization is to fulfill one’s potentialities. Basically, the two theories differ in the aspect of the recognition of the different factors or needs that a person/leader must take into consideration. Another thing is Herzberg’s theory is all about the factors which affect a person’s attitude about work while Maslow’s hierarchy of needs is all about the various personal needs in the context of their work. 2. Describe the benefits to an organization of having a motivated workforce. When an organization has a motivated workforce, the benefits are mutually gained. It’s like hitting two birds with one stone, it may sound redundant but yes, it’s true. You gain money and at the same time you gain your workers trust and camaraderie. For example, in our store, whenever there are high rate of sales, we give incentives. If there are times when we see that our workers have a hard time working, like stocks have arrived, we give extra snacks. We treat our workers not just workers in our store but also as a member of our family, but there are limitations and we draw the line between leader and worker so as to avoid abusive behaviors. During holiday seasons or birthdays, we invite them to join us in our trip. We saw this as a chance for us to get to know our workers better outside our store, how they are as an individual. We also go a little further in knowing what motivates them, what they want, and how to satisfy their needs, because knowing what motivates our workers makes our relationship in the store, easy and effective. 3. Analyze the difference between hygiene factors and motivators. Hygiene factors are called as the dissatisfiers; they are the job factors which are essential for motivation in a workplace. The presence of these factors does not lead to positive satisfaction for long term. But if these factors are absent or if these factors are non-existent at workplace, then they lead to dissatisfaction. In other words, hygiene factors are those factors which when adequate or reasonable in a job, pacify the employees and do not make them dissatisfied. These factors are extrinsic to work. Hygiene factors are also called as maintenance factors  as they are required to avoid dissatisfaction. These factors describe the job environment or scenario. The hygiene factors symbolize the physiological needs which the individuals wanted and expected to be fulfilled. Hygiene factors include: ? Pay- The pay or salary structure should be appropriate and reasonable. It must be equal and competitive to those in the same industry in the same domain. Company Policies and administrative policies- The company policies should not be too rigid. They should be fair and clear. It should include flexible working hours, dress code, breaks, vacation, etc. ? Fringe benefits- The employees should be offered health care plans, benefits for the family members and employee help programmes. ? Physical Working conditions- The working conditions should be safe, clean and hygienic. The work equipments should be updated and well-maintained. ? Status- The employees’ status within the organization should be familiar and retained. Interpersonal relations-The relationship of the employees with his peers, superiors and subordinates should be appropriate and acceptable. There should be no conflict or humiliation element present. ? Job Security- The organization must provide job security to the employees. Motivators on the other hand are factors which are inherent to work. These factors motivate the employees for a superior performance. These factors are called satisfiers. These are factors involved in performing the job. Employees find these factors intrinsically rewarding. The motivators symbolized the psychological needs that were perceived as an additional benefit. Motivational factors include: ? Recognition- The employees should be praised and recognized for their accomplishments by the managers. ? Sense of achievement- The employees must have a sense of achievement. This depends on the job. There must be a fruit of some sort in the job. ? Growth and promotional opportunities- There must be growth and advancement opportunities in an organization to motivate the employees to perform well. ? Responsibility- The employees must hold themselves responsible for the work. The managers should give them ownership of the work. They should minimize control but retain accountability. 4. Evaluate the benefits to organizations of using different motivation approaches. If an organization uses different kinds of motivation approaches, they are more likely to achieve a better workplace with workers who are well motivated. Why is this so? because the different theories of motivation suggests a lot of tips and challenges for the company to apply for them to achieve a better and happier people in the working department. Another is that the company leaders will be able to satisfy every members needs leading to satisfaction and motivation, as well as avoiding the dissatisfiers that might result to drawbacks. Motivating the members of your company makes them more committed and they will trust you because they will feel that they are important to the company they are working into. Applying various types of motivation theories also makes the working environment more exciting and interesting, so your workers are more enthusiastic in coming to work every day and ultimately making productive, profitable and competitive business. This way, you are not just gaining money but you are also able to help others improve themselves as a worker and as efficient and effective members of the society.

Explain the extent to which Ge essays

Explain the extent to which Ge essays Explain the extent to which Germany was transformed into a totalitarian state between 1933-1945. The rise of the Nazi Party in Germany and their eventual accession to power marked the beginnings of a totalitarian state from 1933 to 1945. Under the rule of Adolf Hitler and his Nazi Party, Germany was transformed from one of the most democratic nations in the world to a state with one man at the helm. This radical and continual change, and the realisation and formation of a totalitarian state were not complete for many years after 1933. The Nazi Party under Hitlers directive authority cemented into Germany an ideology that accepted the actions of their leader as if it was the very will of a supreme being. The period of change, and its continuity is attributed to a number of factors. By looking at how Hitler created the new Nazi State, and by understanding how it was maintained helps to evaluate the extent to which a totalitarian state was established. Certain events that further established and cemented the Nazi rule, and also show the extent of their total power include the passing of specific legislation, the Night of Long knives, and the Night of Broken glass. The reasons for these events, the fact that they were staged and the effects they had gives a view of how extreme the Totalitarian regime was. Also to supplement this passage of research, it is essential to target the prominent groups that existed in Germany, before Nazi rule and during Nazi rule. These include the different class groups, the army, the treatment of Jews and the structure, actions, aims and plans of the actual Nazi Party (including the SA and SS). When these core elements are combined the explanation for the transformation of Germany during the period 1933 to 1945 can be obtained. Total Nazi power was established in Germany between 1933-1945. However this does not automatically earn Nazi Germany the branding of a totalitarian state. To what ext...

French Revolution, the terror, and the rise and fall of Napoleon Essay

French Revolution, the terror, and the rise and fall of Napoleon - Essay Example The Tennis Court Oath was signed on 20th June, 1789 which was in the early days of the French Revolution. The Third Estate singed the oath with the fears that the king was holding onto his rule of absolute government. The importance of this oath was twofold in that it showed that sovereignty was embedded in people and their representatives and it forced the king to convene a meeting to discuss the writing of a constitution (Perry 42). The storming of the Bastille was important because it showed the capacity of the people to prevail over the attempts of King Louise XVI to exercise his absolutism. A parliamentary Assembly had recently been appointed and the king was dissatisfied with it. He dismissed his minister of Finances and the people caught word that the king was intending to fight back at the appointed parliamentarians. They stormed the Bastille in search of gun powder to use on the guns they had stolen from the Invalides. The storming was all the more important because Louis XVI’s soldiers that were sent to rescue the Bastille refused to fight the revolutionaries hence leading to further defeat of the king (Pavlac 24). When requested to become a constitutional monarch, King Louis XVI started by resisting. The king thought that this and other proposed reforms would reduce his authority. After a while though, risk of bankruptcy was imminent and the King consented to the election of the Estates-General. However, the king refused to recognize the Third Estate as the self-proclaimed legitimate National Assembly. As a constitutional monarch, he was going to rule in consultation with the people (Perry 43). The Consulate system is the government that took over after the fall of the Directory government in 1799. The Consulate system of government was instituted after a successful coup orchestrated by Sieyes that toppled the Directory government.

DUNKIN DONUTS CASE STUDY Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

DUNKIN DONUTS CASE STUDY - Essay Example In their attempt to sell only good quality products, Dunkin Donuts have created a Coffee Quality Checking Lab, in which every aspect of the coffee is checked, so that the consumers get the best value Dunkin Donut product, no matter wherever it is sold. They have also increased the value perception by giving consumers "what they want". For example, they introduce only those products which are demanded by the consumers and do not come out with random products. This is how Dunkin Donuts is increasing its value perception and having great success in matching their philosophy which is 'great quality with affordability'. Its value perception is similar to that of KFC and McDonalds. They also try to give the maximum quality to their consumers and waiting time for their burgers is only 3 minutes. This is like if Dunkin' Donuts could not sell their coffee in 18 minutes they throw it away, in the same way KFC and McDonald throw away their burgers if they are unable to sell them. The positionin g strategy of Donut Dunkin is very simple as they target a mass market without any distinction of different classes, different level of education etc. According to William Kussels, Dunkin' Donuts Senior Manager, whenever you take a ride to one of our outlet, you always see Mercedes parked with pickup trucks, this shows that we do not target any specific consumer class but we target a mass market.

Malignant melanoma or chicken pox or shingles or goiter disease. PICK Research Paper

Malignant melanoma or chicken pox or shingles or goiter disease. PICK JUST ONE OF THE 4 - Research Paper Example son is not strong enough to cope with the virus, it is more likely that the person will suffer from the painful rushes that result from the disease infecting the sensory nerves. At this point the virus gets the protection from the human body humanity system thus they drop into the nerves forming a painful rush in the skin. The characteristics disease (shingles) is commonly found in the human adults. Chicken pox is caused a VZV virus (Varicella-Zoster virus) (Kaneshiro 1). Young kids can be protected from Varicela by the use of varicella vaccine. Vaccination is done when the kid is about one year old. Also at the age of four to six year, a booster shot is recommended to increase the chances of avoiding the future infection. For the people who are over 13 years, two doses of the vaccine is recommended, one coming after the other at an interval of 28 days. The disease infection happens once in a lifetime however the virus can stay in the body for long and cause shingles in when a person is at the old age. The infection of the disease starts simply just like that of a flu infection. The patient might have some running nose, coughing and sneezing. After the second day of the infection, the patient’s skin grows rashes. The rushes usually appears in the face and in the chest first and then spread on the other parts of the body. The spread of the rushes sometimes reaches the ears and the mouths. The pox in the human body differs from one person to another. Some people are affected just very few while others gets the pox allover the body. When the rash begins to appear in the body of the patient, they are usually pink in color but changes immediately to blisters (Marshall Cavendish Corporation 185). In the rashes, fluids forms but crust after a period of between one to two days. For the first seven days of chicken pox infections, new blisters forms after each of the first ones crust. The blisters takes a period of up to 14 days to be scrubbed completely and become

Analysis of Marks Gospel

Analysis of Marks Gospel Much of the traditional focus of scholarship on Marks Gospel has concentrated upon the call and mission of the disciples, the twelve. However, through this exegetical study of five of the texts I seek to demonstrate that rather than seeing the disciples as the model for mission in the Church, as a people of God, they are in fact failures and a successful model for mission is found in the minor characters, particularly blind Barthimaeus (10:46-52) and the widow at the treasury, (12:41 44). Marks Gospel, since the late 19th century has been used as the primary text. The primacy of Mark and his influence upon Matthew and Luke emerged at this time and most scholars have accepted the concept of Marcan priority. It forms the foundation for the widely accepted two-source theory, although a number of scholars support different forms of Marcan priority or reject it altogether. (Tuckett, 1-2). The structure of Mark can be divided into several distinct sections. Chapters 1-9 Jesus ministry in Galilee, Chapter 10 his journey to Jerusalem, Chapters 11- 13 Jesus ministry in Jerusalem culminating in his passion, death and resurrection, chapters 14 -16. While there are numerous passages that assist in our discernment of discipleship, it is important to begin with a focus initially upon the three central themes of the call, the commissioning and the cost. The Call of the First Disciples Jesus encounters Simon Andrew; James John (1:16-20) The Sending out of the Twelve apostles (6:7-13) The Cost of Discipleship 8:34-38 Malbon (REF) stressed the need to turn ones attention to the minor characters. The first of these I seek to highlight is the healing of blind Barthimaeus. Barthimaeus if vulnerable and depended upon the generosity (or not) of the others. He is truly one of the outcasts. Yet in his utter nothingness he declares an act of faith that none of the twelve were able to do, Son of David have mercy on me. (VV) when Jesus asks what he wants Barthimaeus seeks for his sight to be returned. Jesus heals him by returning his sight. The response of Barthimaeus was one of faith, recognition and action, he threw off his cloak. Such a gesture is important to understand as he detached himself from his everyday existence. Such a declaration and response is in contrast with the disciples who remain blind to the necessity of Jesus suffering and death. (Heil 216, 217). Consequently, it is one of the minor characters who offers a model of discipleship for the contemporary church. A model whose eyes are fully open to the presence of Christ in its midst and whose demands and costs are clear. Such a model is further developed in the story of the widows mite (12:41-44). Here we learn of the contrast between those who give of their surplus and the one who gave all. Monetary donations at the temple treasury were seen as an act of devotion to God. By observing this practice of the Jews Jesus was attracted to the actions of the widow who gave a tine amount in comparison. But she did so quietly and without any show. She gave not what was left over but gave all she had. Speaking to the disciples Jesus tells us that she has put in more than all those contributing she out of her poverty has put in everything she had. (VV) Mark shows us that the widow, who, without a husband to support her would have been marginalized by Jewish society, givers her totality. It is what Emmanuel Levinas refers to as an event or a force that introduces a decisive break into the historical status quo; it is relational, a human affair. (Levinas, 47) Written in the context of transcendence Levinas, while acknowledging his Jewish faith and without making any reference to the story of the widow, captures the essence of discipleship in the womans action. It is the giving of ones entire being, that which exists outside space and time, that which is non-historical, that has a clear message for discipleship and mission in an authentic Christian church today. Such an action emphasises what Jesus said to the rich young man earlier in the Gospel. Jesus repeated the admonition of Deuteronomy 5:6 You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and love your neighbour as yourself (VV) In this Jesus turns his back on burn offerings and sacrifices. The widow, in essence is a model for discipleship that is in accord with the person of Jesus when he tries again and again to emphasise the cost to the deaf and blind twelve. What I hope to have demonstrated in the five texts I have chosen is the contrast between what I deem to be the failure of the disciples and the success of two minor characters. Essentially, I believe it points towards participation in the mission of the church. Fully understanding scripture is not unlike an understanding of revelation. Until there is a response then it remains dormant. Gadamer and Paul Ricouer were both of the opinion that real interpretation leads to actualization. Such an actualization, from an existential perspective[1], is transformational; it impacts and transforms ones life. If one is called to discipleship then one is commissioned to preach the Gospel in word and action (Mk 16:15) by its very nature it is a Gospel of liberation, a liberating and unifying love as emphasized so eloquently in John 3:16, God so loved the world that He gave His only Son. Consequently, the Church is one of mission; local, national and international. Ones response to the movement of the Holy Spirit is missionary, it is both the end and the aim of the Church as a people of God.   Bibliography Tuckett, Christopher M. (2008). The current state of the Synoptic Problem. Oxford Conference on the Synoptic Problem. In Foster, Paul; et al., eds. (2011). New Studies in the Synoptic Problem: Oxford Conference, April 2008. Bibliotheca Ephemeridum Theologicarum Lovaniensium. 239. pp. 9-50 Levinas, Emmanuel. 1969 Totality and Infinity: An essay on Exteriority Pittsburgh: Duquesne University Press [1] . A pattern of human experience lived in the concrete.

The California Wetlands Essay -- Wetlands Environmental Nature Essays

The California Wetlands Smelly, insect infested, and disease ridden are many words that people have used to describe the attributes of wetlands in our country. Until recently it was thought that wetlands served very little use as a part of our ecosystem. However, as the developers began to drain and destroy these wetlands in order to build housing developments and commercial buildings environmental scientists emerged from the woodwork. These environmental scientists found the value and absolute necessity for wetlands and brought it to the attention of politicians. The politicians are the only ones who could slow the destruction of wetlands with their policies. Before the politicians could begin to construct policies to protect the wetlands they needed the scientists to give them a good working definition that they could use to classify wetlands. This is a very difficult process since many wetlands are transitional meaning that they may appear wet or dry according to the season. However in 1987 the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers published guidelines to classifying wetlands. The criterion included that wetlands must contain hydrophytic vegetation, hydric soils, and wetland hydrology. M. Dennison et. al. 1993 With this new information politicians were able to legally define wetlands with the Clean Water Act, which states: "The term ‘wetlands’ means those areas that are inundated or saturated by surface or ground water at a frequency and duration sufficient to support, and that under normal circumstances do support, a prevalence of vegetation typically adapted for life in saturated soil conditions. Wetlands generally include swamps, marshes, bogs and similar areas." Through the study, classification and legal defining of we... ...o be able produce a synthetic ecosystem the scientists must be able to observe what an ideal naturally occurring wetland looks like. With the mass desecration of California wetland it is near impossible to find an intact wetland. Most wetland scientists construct these synthetic wetlands be a theory of how things "should be" if they were not previously contaminated by influences (i.e. abusive farming, golf courses, housing developments, and recreational vehicles (i.e. Gas guzzling boat, waverunners, etc.) In conclusion it is simple to see why the destroyed wetlands should be repaired. Not only would the function of the wetland resume, but all of the surrounding humans would benefit from cleaner water and a flood overflow container. However, it is slow process informing the public of why they should leave a swamp intact instead of building more bay front property.

Gap, Inc. Financial Analysis

The GAP, Inc. The Fiscal year Ended January 28, 2012 A. INTRODUCTION AND OVERVIEW 1. Financial Statements Included in the Annual Report 2. 1. Consolidated Statements of Cash Flow 2. Major Competitors of the GAP, Inc. American Eagle Outfitters, Inc. , J. Crew Group, Inc. , and the TJX Companies, Inc. can be shown as the major competitors for the GAP, Inc. Based on the data given in annual reports of the companies, gross margin % for GAP, Inc. is 36%, while American Eagle Outfitters has 36%, J. Grew Group, Inc. as 40%, and TJX has 32% gross margin. Stock price on November 2, 2012 is $35. 11 for the GAP, Inc. , while it is $21. 05 for American Eagle Outfitters, Inc. , $43. 55 for J. Crew Group, Inc. , and $41. 52 for the TJX Companies, Inc. Debt-to-equity ratio is the total debt divided by total shareholder’s equity and this ratio is a measure of company solvency and its ability to meet its short- and long term obligations. For the major competitors of the GAP, Inc. this ratio ca lculated as below: 3. Auditing Firm of the GAP, Inc.Deloitte & Touche LLP have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of the GAP, Inc. and the other financial statements which are the consolidated statements of income, stockholder’s equity, and cash flows for three years in the period ended in January 28, 2012. They have also consulted the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of January 28, 2012. Deloitte & Touche LLP indicated that consolidated financial statements, which are given in the annual report, present fairly the financial position of The GAP, Inc. nd subsidiaries as of January 28, 2012 in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Also, in their opinion, the company maintained effective internal control over financial reporting as of 28 January, 2012 based on the criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organization s of the Treadway Commission. B. FINANCIAL ACCOUNTING ANALYSIS 1. The Inventory Method The company used the weighted-average method while reviewing inventory to compile the financial statements.When using the weighted average method, the cost of goods available for sale is divided by the number of units available for sale, which yields the weighted-average cost per unit and to estimate ending inventory cost number of units in the ending inventory is multiplied by the weighted average cost per unit. 2. The Depreciation Method and Estimated Useful Lives of the Depreciable Assets Over the estimated useful lives of the related assets, the straight line method is used while computing depreciation to compile financial statements. The estimated useful life of depreciable assets is shown as below: 3.Goodwill and Intangible Assets The company reviews not only intangible assets for impairment, but also the carrying amount of goodwill annually. The goodwill and other indefinite-lived intangibl e assets, including trade name, are recorded in other long-term assets in the consolidated balance sheet of company as shown in Note 3: 4. The class of Stocks and Number of Shares As you can see in the consolidated balance sheet, the company has common stock with authorized 2. 3 billion shares; issued 1. 106 billion shares for all periods presented; outstanding 485 million and 588 million shares for periods presented.The company is authorized to issue 60 million shares of Class B common stock, which is convertible into shares of common stock on a share-for-share basis and no Class B shares have been issued as of January 28, 2012. The Company is also authorized to issue 30 million shares of one or more series of preferred stock, which has a par value of $0. 05 per share and no preferred share has been issued as of January 28, 2012. 5. Treasury Stock and Number of Shares Treasury Stock held by the company has 621 and 518 shares for the periods presented in the consolidated balance she et as January 28, 2012 and January 29, 2011. . Dividends paid by the Company The company declared and paid dividends during the period reviewed as shown in the consolidated statements of income and it is $0. 45 in fiscal year 2011, $0. 40 in fiscal year 2010, and $0. 34 in fiscal year 2009 per share. 7. The price per share of the common stock The price per share of the common stock as of the most recent fiscal year-end date, which is January 28, 2012, is $18. 69. On the other hand, the price per share on November 3, 2012, which is the day we can see the close price before the report date, is $35. 11. 8. Generated CashThe company generated $1. 363 billion net cash by operating activities during fiscal year 2011. The amount of generated cash generated during fiscal year 2011 decreased $381 million comparing the amount generated during fiscal year 2010. Also, net cash provided by operating activities during fiscal year 2010 decreased $184 million compared with fiscal year 2009. The cas h outflows for investing activities of the company are primarily for capital expenditures and purchases of investments, whereas cash inflows are primarily provided from maturities of short-term investments.The amount of net cash used for investing activities is $454 million during the fiscal year 2011, $429 million during the fiscal year 2010 and $537 million during the fiscal year 2009, while maturities of short-term investments are $150 million, $600 million, and $125 million in fiscal year 2011, 2010 and 2009. The cash outflows from financial activities are primarily repurchases of the company’s common stock and dividend payments, while cash inflows are primarily proceeds from the issuance of long-term debt.Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt are $1. 646 billion for fiscal year 2011 and net cash used for financing activities is $602 million. 9. Ratio Analysis for the Company The current ratio is the one of the measures of company equity and it indicates the relationsh ip between current assets and current liabilities. For the company, current ratio is calculated as below: The return on sales ratio measures the company’s profitability and it indicates the relationship between net income and sales. For the company, return on sales ratio is shown below:The debt-to-equity ratio is a measure of the company’s solvency and it measures the relative proportions of financing from debt and financing from shareholders. It is calculated for the company as seen below: The return on investment ratio shows the return generated per dollar of total investment and it is calculated for the company as seen below: The return on owner’s equity ratio measures the return generated per dollar of owner’s equity and for the company the return on owner’s equity ratio is: The gross margin ratio measures the gross profit of the company’s products and for the company it is calculated as shown below:The inventory turnover measures the sp eed at which company sells its inventory. This measure is important to ensure that inventory delivered customers in a timely manner so that cash can be received by the company. Net profit margin measures also company’s profitability and it is mostly used for internal comparison. It is also an indicator of a company's pricing strategies and how well it controls costs. Profit margin for the company is: The asset turnover ratio calculates the total  revenue  for every dollar of assets a company owns and it is calculated for the company as seen below:The quick ratio is measure of a company’s ability to meet its current obligations like the current ratio and it is more reliable measurement of liquidity because it considers only assets that are quickly converted to cash as quick assets. The quick ratio for the company is: The  price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio of a  share  is the market price of the share divided by the annual  earnings per share. a high P/E  ratio suggests that investors are expecting  higher earnings  growth  in the future compared to companies with a  lower P/E. Based on the price per share on January 28, 2012, the price-to-earnings ratio for the GAP, Inc. s: 10. 11. Horizontal and Vertical Analysis for the Comparative Income Statement and Balance Sheet THE GAP, INC. CONSOLIDATED INCOME STATEMENTS (millions) Vertical and Horizontal Analysis| | |   | Financial Data|   | Vertical Analysis| Horizontal Analysis|   |   | 2011| 2010|   | 2011 (%)| 2010 (%)| $ Change| % Change| Net sales| $| 14,549| $| 14,664|   | 100. 00 | 100. 00 | (115)| (0. 78)| Cost of goods sold and occupancy expenses|   | 9,275|   | 8,775|   | 63. 75 | 59. 84 | 500 | 5. 70 | Gross profit|   | 5,274|   | 5,889|   | 36. 5 | 40. 16 | (615)| (10. 44)| Operating expenses|   | 3,836|   | 3,921|   | 26. 37 | 26. 74 | (85)| (2. 17)| Operating income|   | 1,438|   | 1,968|   | 9. 88 | 13. 42 | (530)| (26. 93)| Interest ex pense (reversal)|   | 74|   | (8)|   | 0. 51 | (0. 05)| 82 | (1025)| Interest income|   | (5)|   | (6)|   | (0. 03)| (0. 04)| 1 | (16. 67)| Income before income taxes|   | 1,369|   | 1,982|   | 9. 41 | 13. 52 | (613)| (30. 93)| Income taxes|   | 536|   | 778|   | 3. 68 | 5. 31 | (242)| (31. 11)| Net income| $| 833| $| 1,204|   | 5. 73 | 8. 21 | (371)| (30. 81)| 12. Segments reported by the company The GAP, Inc. dentified its operating segments based on the way to manage and evaluate the business activities and based on this way the company has two reportable segments: Stores and direct. The stores reportable segment has results of the retail stores for Gap, Old Navy, and Banana Republic which are brands of the GAP, Inc. while the direct reportable segment includes the results for the brands of the company, both domestic and international. C. MANAGERIAL ACCOUNTING ANALYSIS 1. Return on Investment for Stores and Direct Segments As it is mentioned before, retu rn on investment is calculated as net income divided by average total assets company has.While calculating return on investment each segment for the company, which are stores and direct, we need net income for these different segments and also average total assets as given financial information by reportable segments in the annual report. The operating income, depreciation and amortization expenses, purchases of property and equipment for each segment, and the effective tax rate, which is given as 39. 2% for fiscal year 2011, are used to calculate the net income for each segment. The return on investment, which is net income divided by segment assets, for the stores reportable segment is 0. 37, while it is 0. 22 for direct reportable segment. It means that the company earned $3. 7 for every $100 investment for the reportable stores segment and $22 for every $100 investment for the direct reportable segment. Calculations for the return on investment ratio are shown in the table below : 2. Residual Income Residual income (RI) is a managerial accounting measurement used to assess and compare the relative success of business units. The basic formula for calculating residual income is to multiply operating assets by the minimum required rate of return, and then subtract this value from operating income.For the stores and direct reportable segments, the residual income is: 3. Assuming that 70% of the expenses are fixed: a. Contribution Margin Contribution margin is the total sales less total variable costs at a given level of activity. For the GAP, Inc. total sales amount is $14. 549 billion during the fiscal year 2011 as seen in the consolidated statements of income, while total variable cost is $2. 782 billion, which is 30% of cost of goods sold and occupancy expenses. Based on this data, contribution margin in fiscal year 2011 is: b. Contribution Margin RatioThe contribution margin ratio is the contribution margin per unit divided by selling price per unit or cont ribution margin divided by total sales. The contribution margin ratio of the company is 0. 8088 or 80. 88% in fiscal year 2011, as you can see the calculation below: c. Break-even in Sales Dollars The break-even point in dollars can be calculated by using contribution margin ratio approach. The basic formula with this approach is fixed cost divided by contribution margin ratio for the break-even in sales dollars. The fixed cost for the company is $6. 92 billion ($9,275 * 70%) and the break-even point in dollars: : D. SUPPLEMENTAL MATERIAL E. INVESTMENT DECISION FOR THE COMPANY There are different criteria to assess the overall performance of companies. We have discussed various perspectives to make a comprehensive evaluation for the GAP, Inc. in the previous parts of the report. While discussing nature of the investment decision, the data given before is used to explain the performance of the company for investors. Investors invest money in company’s stock expecting a return in their investment in the form of dividends or appreciation in the price of stock.From this perspective, we should evaluate the price of stock for the company and the dividends paid. As it is mentioned before, the price per share of the common stock was $18. 69 on January 28, 2012, while it is $35. 11 on November 2, 2012. The price to equity ratio is 22, assuming that the earnings per share will be the same for November 2, 2012 within fiscal year 2011, while it was only 12 on January 28, 2012. Comparing the previous data, it is possible to say that investors can expect higher earnings growth in the future, but it would not be useful for investors to use only this ratio as a basis of investment.Major competitors should also be assessed from the industry analysis perspective to decide to invest company. To compare the company performance with the major competitors, we calculated gross margin ratio and debt-to-equity ratio before. These measurements are very important to assess the si tuation of the company in industry. Although J. Crew Group, Inc. is basically higher gross margin relatively to its competitors, the GAP, Inc. has also high gross margin which is the same with another American Eagle Outfitters, Inc. and higher than TJX Companies, Inc. The GAP, Inc. ’s debt-to-equity ratio is 1. 69, while it is 0. 38 for AEO, 2. 4 for JCG and 1. 83 for TJX. It means that the GAP, Inc. had $1. 69 of debt for every $1. 00 of shareholder’s equity. From this perspective, American Eagle Outfitters has lower debt for every $1. 00 of shareholders’ equity, while other competitors have more debt relatively to the GAP, Inc. We can say that debt-to-equity ratio for our company is acceptable among the companies in industry. For the evaluation of the companies based on financial statements, the analysts usually use a combination of three methods of analysis which are horizontal analysis, vertical analysis and ratio analysis as we made in the previous parts of the report.Horizontal analysis examines the changes in one financial statement item over time, while vertical analysis shows each item on a financial statement as a percentage of one particular item on the statement. Investors use the vertical analysis to evaluate the composition of the company’s financial position and earnings. As we can see in the vertical analysis, the company’s percentage of net income for fiscal year 2011 is 5. 73 while it is 8. 21 for fiscal year 2010. Investors should take this into account and compare these values with the competitors’ values to see that the situation of industry between these years.On the other hand, we can see that cash as a percentage of total assets for fiscal year 2011 is 25. 40 while it is 22. 09 for fiscal year 2010. This gives us some insight into the cash management system of the company. From the horizontal analysis perspective, the GAP, Inc. had a 30. 81 change negatively in net income, while it had 20. 76 pe rcent increase in cash and a 5. 05 increase in total assets. We can see that decreasing amount of income is the result of mostly increasing cost of goods sold and occupancy expenses. So, investors should take this into account and compare it with the company’s another competitors in the industry.Finally, ratio analysis is used to judge the company’s efficiency in using its current assets and liabilities. It is really important to see whether company is profitable or liquid for investors to decide invest on the company. Based on the current and quick ratio, we can say that company’s liquidity is enough to pay its liabilities. We measured company’s profitability by using gross margin, return on sales, return on assets, asset turnover and returns on owner’s equity and profit margin and see that company is profitable to invest and since it has almost 12% return on investment which shows us it makes sense to invest on the GAP, Inc.Investment decision is quite difficult for investors since they should asses the company from many different perspectives, we can say that the GAP, Inc. is one of the leading companies in the industry and it has a good return on investment. The changes between fiscal year 2011 and fiscal year 2010 should be taken into account by comparing with competitors and previous fiscal years. In general investors could see that the price per share of the common stock has increasing value for the company and it is profitable to invest. So, I would invest in this company, since I believe that it has a good return for investors.

Cultural Shift Example

Cultural Shift Example Cultural Shift – Coursework Example Cultural Shift: The Coca-Cola Super Bowl XLVII Advertisement The account of gay people in ifiedadvertisement is less than a decade. Over years, companies have come to accept the inclusion of gay families in their advertisements as part of telling their brand story to an inclusive market. One such advertisement is the Coca-Cola Multilanguage Super Bowl commercial on February 2, 2014 (Emery n.p). To America, this advertisement pioneered featuring the gay community through a gay couple that takes their daughter roller-skating. From the Gay & Lesbian Alliance against Defamation (GLAAD) and the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) community, the advertisement won in every way. Over the last decade, the shift in public opinion on same sex marriage from 58% in 2003 to 33% in 2013 is an indication of gradual acceptance attributed to huge group of youthful adults (Pew Research n.p). This ascent in the acceptance of gay rights has seen 17 states and the District of Colombia legalizi ng gay marriages. This shift is what the Coca-Cola advertisement took advantage of to show the country the growing majority of Americans from all occupations in favor and support of their LGBT family, friends, and neighbors. Further, the advertisement is a pacesetter to the corporate in America that successful business today also means including LGBT. According to (Ferraro n.p), the behind the scenes revealed one of the dads acknowledging that people can now accept and respect them as a family. Since Coca-Cola a sponsors the World Olympic, GLAAD has called upon the company to condemn anti-LGBT violence and laws hampering the lives of Russian LGBT people (Ferraro n.p).(a) (b)Figure (a) and (b) shows images of the gay couple roller-skating with their daughter and enjoying a coke. Source: Ferraro (n.p) Emery, Debbie. Super Bowl: Coca Cola Gay Dads Commercial Gets Thumbs Up From GLAAD (Video). 2 February 2014. Web. 3 September 2014.Ferraro, Rich. Watch now: Coca-Cola unveils gay-inclu sive ad during Super Bowl XLVIII. 2 February 2014. Web. 3 September 2014.Pew Research. Growing Support for Gay Marriage: Changed Minds and Changing Demographics. 20 March 2013. Web. 3 September 2014.

Modern Heroes essays

Modern Heroes essays There are significant differences between celebrities and heroes. Heroes deserve more awards than celebrities do. Everyday heroes such as policemen, firemen, doctors and teachers deserve awards for their service to the community. We must recognize them as heroes working towards the wellbeing of other people. Real heroes should receive recognition for their accomplishments from the media. General Aung San, who founded the Burmese Army in 1941 and fought for independence from the British, is considered as the father of the nation. When Burma was under the British rule, Aung San first made his name through university level political action. Aung San fled to Japan in 1940 following his arrest for participating in the Communist Party of Burma. In 1941, Aung San and his thirty comrades founded the Burmese Independence Army (BIA). Aided by BIA, the Japanese marched into Burma within weeks of Pearl Harbor. Japan declared Burma an independent country and allowed General Aung San to create the Burma National Army (BNA). General Aung San took the position of the Defense Minister in BNA. At the end of War World II, Japan lost the War and Burma came under the British rule for the second time. General Aung San wanted independence immediately from England and also wanted to establish a democratic, civilian government. In July 1947, General Aung San was assassinated by his enemie s at the age of thirty-two before Burma was able to declare her independence in 1984. He might not be as well known as a famous actor, but he deserved recognition as a hero for his service to his country and people. Aung S. Su Kyi, daughter of General Aung San continue to struggle for democracy and human rights in Burma, and became the leading representative of the movement for freedom and democracy. She was only two years old when enemies assassinated her father in 1947, the year before Burma finally won its independence form England. In 1988, Aung S. Ky ...

The intersection of private and public - analysis synthesis, and Essay

The intersection of private and public - analysis synthesis, and personal meaning - Essay Example She always faces many obstacles along her journey, including fear of losing her job, the physical pain of her scalded and bleeding feet, and the possibility of being beaten or worse for speaking up because of color of her face. Odessa makes a very courageous decision to go public with her desire and hope for a more just society and equality for her people. On the other hand, in the beginning of the movie, Miriam is not really even aware of racism. Miriam has lived her private white life not really understanding or even caring about what is happening around her in the public area. She is so blind to the fact that racism could invade her private life that she sends her daughter with the black maid to the â€Å"white† park, resulting in Odessa’s expulsion from that park. Before the bus boycott starts, Miriam is worry about whether Odessa will come to her house to clean the house. When Odessa is unable to be on time for work or not to come to her house, Miriam starts to feel some personal consequences of racism because her house cleaning expectations were not being met. After she starts driving into Odessa’s world, and sees how different life is beyond her community, she starts to change from a very private person who just wants her house cleaned to a person with moral spirit. As a result, Miriam makes the brave decision to break out of her very private â€Å"white† community and become a public figure in order to stand up against racism. She against her husband and drives into Odessa’s neighborhood to pick her up and eventually begins a carpool to drive Odessa’s neighbors as well. By her actions, she displays her hope in a racially equal world with more justice for the black people. This story stands as an example how small gestures can have a great impact on society. Much can be accomplished when the people, white and black both, work together to effect change. This was the basis of the Civil

Brand Analysis Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words - 1

Brand Analysis - Essay Example After a few years, Starbucks completely redefined the American coffee shops. High priced Brews, Lattes, Moccachinos, Cappuccinos and Frappes awakened the senses of 50 million customers across the globe (Burks, 2009, p.01). The company was formed in 1971, in Seattle. It was an initiative of a group of three friends-Gordon Bowker, Jerry Baldwin and Zev. Initially, the store was named as ‘Starbucks coffee, Tea and Spices’ (Burks, 2009, p.01) and the brand logo depicted a chocolate brown colored two tailed mermaid (Gilbert, 2008, p. 13). Later, the name of the store was changed to ‘Starbucks’ and its logo was re-colored to bright green. Starbucks was initially formed with the motto of selling good coffee with a unique flavor that a regular coffee brand wouldn’t offer. After the company was listed in the National Association of Securities Dealers Automated Quotation (NASDAQ), the growth of the company accelerated and it opened 16,680 stores across the glob e. Today, it has become a global brand with its footing in 47 countries around the world and its net revenue reaching over $ 10 billion (Burks, 2009, p.06). Most of the consumers associate a brand with its logo, which reminds them of the brand promise that an organization makes. Brand Promise of a company is an attempt to make a promise for the benefits of the customers, conveying it and then delivering the promise through their products or service (Pringle, 2008, p.103). The brand logo should be very distinctive. Either the concept of the logo should be unique or colors used in the logo should be vibrant enough to attract the customers. Starbucks remained true to its vision and its promise to use the best quality beans. Consumers generally prefer Arabica beans over Robusta coffee beans. Arabica coffee accounts for 75% production of coffee beans all over the world (Burks, 2009, p.07). Brand Personality refers to a set of human like attributes associated with a particular brand. Bran d personality enhances the appeal of the brand to the consumers. Most of the consumers associate a brand to a person’s character; it can take the form of an actual person, animated figure or generalized person (Gelder, 2005, p. 41). Coffee consumption in America was not as high as in Scandinavia. From the 1990’s the American coffee market scenario completely changed when Starbuck’s redefined the coffee houses. The European Coffee houses were traditional and had an old charm to it and a warm atmosphere. Starbuck stores were modern and hip, offering variety of coffees including hot and cold beverages, fancy decoration, positive and uplifting environment and an access to Wireless Local Area Network connection (Strehle & Cruickshank, 2004, p.03). They connected with the requirements of customers. As the customer’s taste and preferences change, the company tries hard to introduce new flavors of coffee which suits the taste buds of the consumers (Rakocevic, 201 1, p. 13). Brand Value helps in differentiating between right and wrong. The brand values provide a perspective on how the company is expected to act towards its consumers. When a company expands its network in other countries, the original values are hard to retain because different countries have different cultural values and ethics (Gelder, 2005, p. 37). Starbucks’ success can be attributed to a strategy that focused on different sets of value drivers rather than on three big competitors: 1. Quality instead of quantity; 2. Restaurants instead of grocery stores; 3.Close