Moral absolutism Essay

When we speak of â€Å"Morality† we think of the difference between right and wrong, the difference between the good and the evil. We use morality to justify our actions and decisions. More often than not, people impose their morality on others and expect them to act in the way they find fit. They believe that the idea of right and wrong is universal. In her essay â€Å"On Morality†, Didion contradicts this theory and believes that everyone can have different ideas of morality based on their own perception. To make her point, Didion uses the examples of Klaus Fuchs and Alfred Rosenberg. Fuchs was a British traitor who leaked nuclear secrets to the Soviets, and Rosenberg was the Nazi administrator of Eastern Europe, where the Germans committed their most heinous and most murderous acts during World War II. Both of them claimed that what they did were morally appropriate. She then goes on to say that Jesus justifies what he did based on morality. The juxtaposition of these ideas affirms Didion’s theory that the conviction of morality is vastly based on perspective. This juxtaposition also helps prove that people use morality to justify almost anything. Osama Bin Laden believed that it was morally right to take the lives of millions of innocent civilians in the name of religion. President Snow, along with the Capitol, in The Hunger Games saw it fit to throw 24 teenagers in a battlefield and let them fight until only one remains. Morality does not seem like a tool to distinguish right from wrong, but a method to have a clean conscious, irrespective of whether one’s acts are good or bad. Didion also says, â€Å"For better or for worse, we are what we learned as children. † (158) This shows that the ideas we have of good and bad and the so-called â€Å"morality† is part of what we’ve learnt growing up. A lot of people might find it pointless to stay with a corpse on a highway. But to Didion, it is the moral thing to do. We do not leave behind our dead. Friedrich Nietzsche said, â€Å"Fear is the mother of morality. † Didion maintains that morality might differ from person to person. In my opinion, a lot of factors influence the decisions we make and then blame them on morality. â€Å"The right thing† is too abstract to be universal. Didion debates about the cannibalism acts and talks about the vestigial taboo that no one should eat their own blood kin. This might seem appalling to some while being a being of another’s culture. Didion says that morality has â€Å"the most potentially mendacious meaning. † (159) And I couldn’t agree more. There is a very thin line between right and wrong, and morality is what shows one where to draw it. But the basis of that line is so ambiguous, that people end up using morality to cover up their actions. The idea Didion presents is that humans are not equipped to distinguish between the good and the bad. We think that all actions are sound as long as they don’t hurt another person. But then we see people like Adolf Hitler. The man murdered millions of people. Yet, he had a bunch of supporters who helped him with these inhumane acts. But he did what he did in the name of morality, in the name of ‘respect for the greater race. ’ The central idea of this essay is that morality depends largely on perception. What one finds wrong may not necessarily be seen as inappropriate by another. â€Å"I followed my own conscience. † â€Å"I did what I thought was right. † Didion questions the reader how many madmen have said this and meant it? Didion doesn’t believe that these men shelter themselves under the illusion of morality but actually believe their actions are moral and justified. Maybe we ourselves have said it before and been wrong. Our conscience isn’t always the best judge of things. But the concept of morality makes it okay to just be impulsive and do what we think is correct in the moment. The relevance of our logic lacks frequency. One might not kill people on a daily basis but one might find it moral to do it someday and go ahead with it. Does this make them immoral? Is the act of killing immoral? What if the victim is a killer? The answers to questions relating to morality are not black or white. There could be various different instances where individuals might have different stands on issues. All of which they might believe to be morally correct. So the question is, who decides what is moral and what is not? What gives them the power to do so? Should the morality of one person be forced on another? Clearly, universal standards of right and wrong do not exist. The evidence Didion provided as well as instances we see around the world proves that fact. A lot of people do not agree with Didion’s idea of differing morality. The people who adhere themselves to a supposedly universal moral code can delude themselves into thinking people who do not follow that code are less humane. People need to stop fretting over moral absolutes and let morality run their life and effect every decision they make in order to ensure the future is safe from oppression and terrorism.

Dota Addiction Effects in Academic Performance Essay

INTRODUCTION As time continues to run, our world keeps getting more advance and modernize and until now, it doesn’t stop. One of the finished products of modernization is the machine called â€Å"Computer†. Since, it was invented and being developed, it gives us benefits and brings significance and importance to our lives. But as we all know that when things are not used properly, there’s always a negative effect that occurs. It can be in our thoughts, behaviors, actions, and or in other ways. Computer games are slowly arousing and it is one of the things that bring the negative effect. Many people are playing and having so much fun with this that can be a form of entertainment. DOTA is one of the examples of computer games. And this is whereour topic began to star. DOTA means Defense of the Ancients. It is commonly the word that we can hear on most people especially the youth and some actually doesn’t have any idea about it. We usually observed some students talking about â€Å"Laro tayo DOTA mamaya.† or â€Å"We play DOTA later.† not going straight at home after school. It captures our attention when we are hearing those students talking about the thing DOTA .and actually; we observed that it affects their behavior especially in academic standing. Defense of the Ancients (DOTA) is a custom scenario for Warcraft III, based on the â€Å"Aeon of Strife† map for StarCraft .The objective of the scenario is to destroytheopponents†Ancient.† The two team’s ancients are heavily guarded structures at opposing corners of the map. Players use powerful units known as heroes, and are assisted by allied heroes and AI-controlled fighters called â€Å"creeps†. As in role-playing games, players level up their hero and use gold to buy equipment during the mission. The scenario was developed with the â€Å"World Editor† of Warcraft III: Reign of Chaos, and was updated upon the release of the Warcraft III: The Frozen Throne. There have been many variations of the original concept; currently, the most popular is DOTA All-stars, which has been maintained by several authors during development.Since its release, Allstars has become a featureat several worldwidetournaments, including Blizzard Entertainmentâ€℠¢s Blizz Conand the Asian World Cyber Games, as well as the Cyber athlete Amateur and Cyber Evolution leagues; Gama sutra declared that DOTA was perhaps the most popular â€Å"free, non-supported game mod in the world†. The map has gone on to influence other maps and games, including the upcoming strategy game Demigod. DOTA GAMES have now been with us for over 30 years. The Atari 2600 is nearly 25 years old. Civilization is now nearly 10 years old. Yet, many Americans fail to recognize these complex achievements as more than fads or child’s play. Ask most people what they think about video games, DOTA and many will respond that they’re a waste of time. Many critics argue that games produce socially isolated people or promote violent behavior. DOTA games are simple, mind numbing entertainment. Playing games is a waste of time. Some of these criticisms may (or may not) be true, but to view all game playing through this lens is to ignore the broader history of games and the diverse range of game playing experiences available. In fact, the DOTA games sales charts reflect this diversity. The Sims Theâ€Å"animated dollhouse† game where players create and play out digital fantasy hous eholds has dominated the charts for 18 months straight. There are so many computer games which is being addicted by the children or students either in high school and college and even the elementary really like the DOTA games or video games. Today millions of students has been playing DOTA games and become their habits it is so hard for them to avoid playing DOTA games. It is a big Physical and Psychological effects for them mostly to their studies. According to Guinsoo, the creator and the first head developer of Ice frog, he and his men (including â€Å"Buff Me Please† who had retired a few months ago) created DOTA in 2003 as a customized game in Warcraft 3: Reign of Chaos created by Blizzard Entertainment. DOTA is popular not only here in the Philippines but also in other countries like Germany, United States of America, Canada, Slovenia and England. This phenomenal PC game had released many versions, and the latest version of DOTA is DOTA All-stars 6.70. Most of its players are males, for about 94%, and the remaining players ar e females. From elementary, high school, college, out of school youth and even adults, DOTA dominates the gaming life of most gamers. DOTA offers a variety of game modes, selected by the game host at the beginning of the match. The game modes dictate the difficulty of the scenario, as well as whether people can choose their hero or are assigned one randomly. Many game modes can be combined, allowing more flexible options. As DOTA arises, many issues also arise. It may be about on relationships, peers, foes, and most especially, education. This introductory message will begin to tackle the effects of playing Defense of the Ancients in academic performance among male freshmen college students of freshmen in academic year of 2010-2011. Backgrounds of the Study Technology today is very advanced and widely used by people in working, studying, communicating, and even for games and entertainment. Games are very popular with teenagers these days. It entertains them and made them have fun. â€Å"Responsible gaming is an attitude we need if we are engage into Computer Game. Developing this attitude is not a personal choice alone, it requires the participation of society (parents, school, game developer and government). Statement of the problem This research seeks to evaluate the effect of DOTA game in academic Performance of Information Technology Students of STI Education Services Group Inc. Semester 2012 – 2013. 1. Is there a significant effect in DOTA addiction to the academic performance of Information Technology Student of 2nd semester 2012- 2013? 2. Number of time spent in playing DOTA games. CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK This chapter presents different approaches which may be necessary to the development of this paper work. For better understanding, the researchers have sought other perspective to further discussion. Independent variableDependent variable Number of time spent in playing DOTA games Academic Performance of Information Technology Student ASSUMPTION Assumptions The researcher came up with following assumption as the basis of their studies: DOTA game affects the academic performance of Information Technology students of STI Education Services Group Inc. 2nd semester 2012-2013. HYPOTHESIS There is no significant effect DOTA game to the academic performance of Information Technology Student of STI Education Services Group Inc. 2nd semester 2012-2013. Significance of the Study The findings of this research may benefit the students, teachers as well the researcher. The result of this study will lead to the improvement of the academic performance of Information Technology Students. The result will benefit the student the awareness the effect DOTA addiction to their Academic performance and knowledge on the magnitude of effects whether it is health, study, social, and family and even money issues. SCOPE AND THE LIMITATION The study to determine the significant effect of DOTA to the academic performance of INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY Students of STI Education Services Group Inc. 2nd semester 2012-2013. The available Academic Performance Rating of Students Of 2nd semester 2012-2013 in the registrar’s Office will be used a basis of research study. Scope of Key Terms These terms are defined operationally for in depth understanding on the use of the words in the research DOTA– is a game expanded from version of War of War Craft, defense of the Ancients is a custom scenario for Warcraft III Information technology (also referred to as IT)- is the application of computers and telecommunications equipment to store, retrieve, transmit and manipulate data, often in the context of a business or other enterprise. The term is commonly used as a synonym for computers and computer networks, but it also encompasses other information distribution technologies such as television and telephones. Humans have been storing, retrieving, manipulating and communicating information since the Sumerians in Mesopotamia developed writing in about 3000 BC, but the term â€Å"Information Technology† in its modern sense first appeared in a 1958 article published in the Harvard Business Review; authors Leavitt and Whisler commented that â€Å"the new technology does not yet have a single established name. We shall call it information technology (IT).† Based on the storage and processing technology employed, it is possible to distinguish four distinct phases of IT development: pre-mech anical (3000 BC – 1450 AD), mechanical (1450–1840), electromechanical (1840–1940) and electronic (1940-present). This article focuses on the most recent period, (electronic) which began around the year 1940. CHAPTER II Review of Related Literature The researcher cited related studies in local setting and foreign setting in order to support the present study. This will help the researcher to determine the similarities and differences of past studies obtain the aspect of the problem that is critical. And to determine the importance of this study. Concept of Intelligence Individuals differ from one another in their ability to understand complex ideas, to adapt effectively to the environment, to learn from experience, to engage in various forms of reasoning, to overcome obstacles by taking thought. Although these individual differences can be substantial, they are never entirely consistent: a given person’s intellectual performance will vary on different occasions, in different domains, as judged by different criteria. Concepts of â€Å"intelligence† are attempts to clarify and organize this complex set of phenomena. (Sternberg & Detterman, 1986). Such disagreements are not cause for dismay. Scientific research rarely begins with fully agreed definitions, though it may eventually lead to them. The Psychometric approach ever since Alfred Binet’s great success in devising tests to distinguish mentally retarded children from those with behavior problems, psychometric instruments have played an important part in European and American life. Tests are used for many purposes, such as selection, diagnosis, and evaluation. Many of the most widely used tests are not intended to measure intelligence itself but some closely related construct: scholastic attitude, school achievement, specific abilities, etc. Tests of intelligence itself (in the psychometric sense) come in many forms. Some use only a single type of item or question; while some instruments have different types of items, both verbal and nonverbal tests. Test-takers may be asked to give the meanings of words, to complete a series of pictures, to indicate which of several words does not belong with the others, and the like. Local setting As in any situation where new technology is introduced to the Filipino youth, the social impact of the Internet is being looked at. One social problem that has been observed is that the Internet cafà © has become mainly game centres. About one-half to two-thirds of the computers in a typical Internet cafà ©, according to one study, are devoted to games (violent and gory games). The use of the remaining computers was roughly split between browsing, email, online chat, word processing and research. The Internet cafà ©s have become not just game centres. They are becoming centres off addiction among the youth, mostly boys, including elementary school pupils. Accordingto one concerned Internet cafà © entrepreneur, â€Å"Internet cafà ©s are seducing youths to a new form of addiction, one which may not destroy their bodies as drugs do, but which is certainly twisting their minds. To the young play is reality and reality is play.† (Maslog C. (1998) Internet and Social Issues, Philippine Communication Today, Quezon City: New Day Publishers). Games come in many forms and style; like clothes, but unlike clothes however, you cannot wear them and it isn’t food so you cannot eat them. So why are people going gaga over such an ironically powerful phenomena? The answer lies in us, as human. Foreign Setting Lepper, M. R. &Gurtner, J (2000), states that prolonged and excessive use of these games can cause, mainly upon children, a number of physical and psychological problems which may include obsessive, addictive behavior, dehumanization of the player, desensitizing of feelings, personality changes, hyperactivity learning disorders, premature maturing of children, psychomotor disorders, health problems (due to lack of exercise & tendonitis), Development of anti-social behavior and loss of free thinking and will. Anderson and Bushman (2001), found that across 54 independent tests of the relation between video game violence and aggression, involving 4262 participants, there appear to be five consistent results of playing games with violent contents. Playing violent games increase aggressive behaviors, increases aggressive cognitions, increases aggressive emotions, increases physiological arousal, and decreases pro-social behaviors. Since most electronic games are violent, children below legal ages are emotionally disturbed and caused several changes on their behavior. Austin, Pinkleton & Fujioka (2000), quoted that â€Å"parental meditation is correlated with better academic performance. And has been shown to increase beliefs in social norms, and to decrease fear.†Which refers to the parental consent of the player as they play a violent-oriented game. Gentile & Walsh (2002), wherein 55% of parents said that â€Å"always† or â€Å"often† should parents put limits on the amount of the time their children may play computer and video games, and 40% said they â€Å"always† or â€Å"often† check the video game rating before allowing their children to buy or rent computer or video games. Even through these numbers are not particularly high, they may overestimate the amount of parental monitoring of children’s video game play. DOTA basically is a game expanded from version of War of War Craft, which initially a strategic game similar to Red Alert series. But eventually evolved into current state. Gamers can play DOTA on a wide range; from single player, local LAN, or LANover internet connection with various countries’ gamers. There contain variety of Heroes to be chosen as your character, there are many type of gaming modes, and different type of map for the game modes. There’s no need for me to explain how the game is conducted and the features of the game. Because there are lots of gamers who are more expert than me exist in the DOTA community. For me, this DOTA is not a difficult game for amateur; you can start play DOTA anytime and familiar with this game easily over 2 or 3 days. But one thing to remind you is, DOTA is not easy to master and play like a Pro. You can take up to several years spent on this game but still behave like amateur. There are lots of effects which DOTA brings to our society, to be particular, the youth. Bibliography * ](2011, 02). The Effects of Playing Defense of the Ancients in Academic Performance Among Male Freshmen College Students of Freshmen in Academic Year of 2010-2011.. StudyMode.com. Retrieved 02, 2011, from http://www.studymode.com/essays/The-Effects-Of-Playing-Defense-Of-580808.html * http://www.scribd.com/doc/43813815/Impacts-of-Dota-in-Students * (2011, 03). The Effects of Dota. StudyMode.com. Retrieved 03, 2011, from http://www.studymode.com/essays/The-Effects-Of-Dota-626652.html * (2011, 04). Dota: Recreation or Addiction?. StudyMode.com. Retrieved 04, 2011, from * â€Å"//en.wikipedia.org/wiki/defense_of_ancients† * (Maslog C. (1998) Internet and Social Issues, Philippine Communication Today,Quezon City: New Day Publishers) * Lepper, M. R. &Gurtner, J (2000), United States= * Anderson and Bushman (2001) * Austin, Pinkleton& Fujioka (2000) * Gentile & Walsh (2002)

Communication Research Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words - 2

Communication Research - Assignment Example This is where the all the data comes from.> Might be helpful to the class if you mentioned why Qual research doesn’t do sampling? Qualitative research doesn’t do sampling because unlike in quantitative research which rely heavily on sample size as the key drivers for statistical analysis, qualitative research rely more on observation and the interpretations are mostly value-bound. Qualitative research is subjective in nature while quantitative research is objective. Given the context and implications of the use of sampling in a research study, it is important to ensure that the sample size chosen is appropriate and adequate in order to derive effective results from the study. Since the analysis of the data relies heavily on the sampling methods used as well as on the sample size it is highly crucial to ensure that the chosen method is apt for the research study. However determining an appropriate sample size is highly tedious process and the researchers are generally found to be vulnerable to random sampling errors. These sampling errors encountered by researchers refer to ascertaining the appropriate sample size and disregarding the response and non-response bias Yes. Response bias means when the respondents answer in accordance with what they perceive the researcher expects them to answer rather than relying on their own personal beliefs. Non-response bias occurs in statistical surveys and refers to the difference between the answers provided by the respondents and those likely to be provided by potential respondents who did not participate in the study (Wunsch, 1986). The key advantages of sampling is that it allows the researchers to use numbers as a tool to assign value to a given phenomenon and derive meaning out of the numerical data, collected by them (Keyton, 2011). Quantitative research enables the researchers to use/ select smaller groups or

Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words - 127

Essay Example mself, the particular case that would ostensibly be his most vital and characterize the heading of his future work, was that of drawing a line between the announcements, or frameworks of proclamations, of the observational sciences, and all different articulations (Keuth 2005). Popper wasnt the first researcher to consider this issue and, as we will see, his proposals contradicted what the acknowledged perspectives were encompassing the issue at the time. Here, we try to find simply why Poppers boundary was so essential. The essential system for division that Popper proposes, then, is that a hypothesis may be considered to be exploratory in the event that it can be misrepresented (Allday 2009). That is to say that a hypothesis must contain a characteristic testability; it must have the capacity to make expectations that can be gotten to through experimentation. Poppers strategy for boundary does not oblige that a hypothesis can ever be indicated, unequivocally, to be genuine, however it does oblige that through experimental testing a hypothesis can be demonstrated to be false (Popper 1974). Different theories have been formulated in explaining certain phenomenon in the world. There are distinctive perspectives of what executed the dinosaurs and different organic entities. Contention has encompassed the point and it has gotten to be troublesome for people in general (and the investigative world everywhere) to comprehend the issue because of the tangled array of information which appears to point in various bearings. Fortunately, the discussion has not hurt the investigation of mass termination causation, but instead has made it a dynamic and fascinating region. Each momentous new theory stands out as truly newsworthy in the media, and energizes scientists to dive further into the riddle. As per researcher, numerous living beings; both marine and physical, vertebrate and invertebrate; went wiped out. The purpose behind this elimination was most likely this

Introduction and organizations as a soci-technical system Research Paper

Introduction and organizations as a soci-technical system - Research Paper Example sociotechnical systems (STS). In other words, the field recognizes the essence of complicated work designed impacted by technical development which in turn influences the modes of interaction amongst the people at the workplace (Fader, Painter & Barnes 2003). To further demonstrate the point and to offer a critical analysis of the central thesis posed by the STS theorists, the Painter`s Case Study would be taken as a test case which would enable an insight on the various perspectives of the field. Painter observed and reported on the developments of a an ‘E-File System’ which had replaced a long standing paper based mechanisms, which in turn influenced human aspects of job development thereby confirming the STS theory hypothesis. In other words, it may be argued that the social development readily follows the pathway of technical innovation in any industry which confirms the simultaneous propagation of both the variables to leave a holistic impact on the industry. Since the social factors can also comprise of negative developments along with positive developments as well, the paper will aim at exploring various STS generalized principles via commenting on Painter`s Case Study. The Sociotechnical theory implies that the social as well as the technical developments in a firm don`t take place in an isolated environment. Instead, in any of the scenarios at a work place, there is an inherent system in place which depicts how the social and technical factors interact and shape the overall direction of the workplace. In other words, the theory offers a wider explanation and an interactional model which explains how the technical changes in a firm call for moderation and alteration in job specifications and requirements of the organizational structure (Chiang, Saiu &Hardgrave 2011). This change in tasks in turn interacts with the human factor in the firm i.e. directly impacts the structure of human

Breast Feeding vs. Formula Feeding Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Breast Feeding vs. Formula Feeding - Essay Example In this article, the benefits and disadvantages of breast feeds and formula feeds will be highlightened through review of suitable literature. Breast milk has the right composition of various nutrients essential for the survival, growth and development of the baby (CDC, 2011). It is easily available, non-expensive, warm, and stable. For the baby, breast feeding has several advantages. It enhances the immunity of the baby because of transfer of maternal antibodies, thus preventing several infectious diseases. It also protects the baby from other conditions like allergies, atopy, asthma and some autoimmune related diseases. Other than antibodies, breast milk has many antiinfective factors (AAP, 2010). Breast fed babies are at decreased risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome and are likely to be more intelligent than those on exclusive formula feeding. They are also less likely to develop necrotizing enterocolitis in the newborn period and cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and childhood o besity later in life. Mothers too have several benefits. Exclusive breast feeding causes lactational amenorrhoea, a natural means of postpartum birth control. It helps the mother shed the extra weight gained during pregnancy.

Hobbes and Locke views on the State of Nature Essay

Hobbes and Locke views on the State of Nature - Essay Example The egoism in man, is a presupposition of Hobbes which leads him to the description of nature as a constant power struggle. In a natural state, that is, in a physical state, men are generally equal in strength, mental capacity and experience (Solomon, Ed, 1992, p. 178). He asserts that everyone has a natural and equal right to everything. However, if man was without government the conflict from desire would lead to a state of war of every man against every man: Hereby it is manifest, that during the time men live without a common Power to keep them all in awe, they are in that condition which called Warre; and such a warre, as is of every man, against every man(Solomon, Ed, 1992, p. 179). Fortunately, however, Hobbes argues that "passion" in the form of a "fear of death", and the desire to live a long and peaceful life, has allowed man to use "reason" in order to form laws which combined, provide the basis or foundation of a civil society, allowing man, therefore, to escape the state of nature-- the universal "strife": â€Å"The Passions that encline men to Peace, are Feare of Death ... and Reason suggesteth convenient articles of Peace, upon which men may be drawn to agreement.(Solomon, Ed, 1992, p. 180) It is at this point, that the political philosophy of Hobbes can now be understood, given that the foundations have been established, namely, that if the end of man is security, then the state itself is necessary. In particular, for the purposes of securing peace, Hobbes argues that of the three forms of government, monarchy, aristocracy, and democracy, monarchy is the most effective at realizing this end of a peaceful society. In keeping with the notion that the state itself, is a like a human body-- or, one might refer to the state in this sense, as the political body. Monarchy is like the mind of a body, which rationally maintains the desires in a sense of harmony. The desires, in terms of the analogy of the state with the body, amount to the people who th e monarch is sovereign over. Hobbes argues that for the purposes of peace, monarchy is necessary. The interests of the monarchy and his subjects, Hobbes argues are exactly alike, thus, what is good for the monarchy (the mind), is also good for the people (the body), given that they are all connected with the aim of self-maintenance: â€Å"It is manifest, that men who are in absolute liberty, may, if they please, give Authority to One man, to represent them everyone.† (Solomon, Ed, 1992, p. 184) Thus, if the Monarch is rich and secure, so too is the people, given that his wealth is derived from theirs. Further, there will be no argument and disagreement in making decisions, and that decisions will stand more firm. As an analogy again, with the body, one could see for example, that when someone is confused or in a state of inner turmoil mentally, often the body suffers as a result. If there is only one decision maker, namely, the monarch, then there is no suffering amidst the b ody as a whole. In terms of fear then, which was raised earlier in the context of Hobbes view of human nature, or his psychology, Hobbes argues that rather than fearing the sovereign which is reasonable and the regulator of the passions-- the body should

Why should California's leaders save you and your peers a spot in Essay

Why should California's leaders save you and your peers a spot in college - Essay Example I am no exception in this regard. Many of my peers, handicapped by economic status, have received the same benefits. It is a fact that education is the greatest instrument of change in life. As such, a college education is the greatest gift we can receive from our State. I firmly believe that when California’s leaders elect to save us a place in college, they are choosing to make a long-term investment in the future welfare of our society. Financial assistance for higher education will usher in many social and economic benefits, both to us as individuals, and to society as a whole. On the individual plane, a higher education is obviously linked to better employment, increased salaries, financial assets and a higher quality of life, all of which will be passed on to the next generation. The betterment of the individual is synonymous with the betterment of society. In terms of public benefit, an educated workforce increases productivity and consumption, encourages participation in civic and community activities and will reduce dependence on government financial assistance in the long run. In my attempt to give back to society, I have enthusiastically thrown myself into community service, as a member of the Earth Club’s recycling program, and as a volunteer at the Trinity Lutheran Church’s Food Bank, the Peace Vigil, the LA Marathon and Keep America Beautiful. Here again, I have not been an exception – my peers have shared my enthusiasm to make California a better place, in our own small way. We are deeply aware of the benefits we have received from society and are fully committed towards sharing these benefits with those less fortunate than ourselves. A college education will help us to become true contributors to California and to the

Supply Chain Management Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Supply Chain Management - Research Paper Example Within this paper, we review the literature addressing planning amidst two or more underlying stages of the supply chain, placing specific prominence on models that would provide themselves to total supply chain mode. Introduction Supply Chain management is described as the underlying natural expansion of the prevailing economizing and re-engineering undertaken by organizations. Economizing and corresponding re-engineering changed the enterprises into incline and connote competitive units through cost reduction and procedure simplifications (Lamberti et al, pp36-42). These operations entailed the optimization that takes the form of the number of individuals involved, duration and intricacy of the work of the underlying business units. Business units are the main serviceable and managerial realms over which the administrations possess full control. Moreover, the strategies have resulted to escalation of productivity and profit to the organizations. Nevertheless, the benefits are level ed off due to the alteration of the organization approach. The alteration are by product of the closed system global picture of the business enterprise involved within the full chain, with the organizations trying to endure within the unfriendly environment, presumptuous that all the underlying members within the value chain were rivals with whom the prevailing organization ought to battle, though the functions undertaken by the different organizations might be auxiliary but not harmonizing. The comprehension that global picture is mainly executed to development of organizations thus prompting business enterprises to commence strategic associations with other prevailing organizations (Lamberti et al, pp36-42). Common basis of supply chain management undertaken by organizations mainly entail the demand-supply chain. Therefore, there is no competition amongst the suppliers, partakers within the chain, sub-contract merchants, in-house merchandise processes, transportation, circulation, warehouses and the final consumer since they undertake mutually exclusive tasks. The paper mainly explore the necessity for SCM , arrangement of the SCM models, Issues that pertains to designing SCM outline, quantitative approaches and SCM,Information technology in SCM enabler, strategy of a Multiple Criteria DSS for haulage and distribution and the significance of the SCM archetype to the management sector and corresponding open part enterprises. Matters in SCM A supply chain mainly entails activities, purposes and facilities used in the process of producing and distributing a product and service, from the underlying suppliers to the corresponding customers. Thus, supply chain management paradigm is mainly geared towards the process of optimization of every component Production and corresponding Operations management, which include manufacture, warehousing, record, shipping and supply and the underlying interconnection amidst these components synergistically. Numerous models that are employed in the production and functions control and administration in supply chain management include Just-In-Time, Vendor Managed Inventory model, Zero Inventory model, and Total Quality Management. The models mainly focus on diverse components that pertain to the supply chain and its entire optimization. Nevertheless, within an

Risk assessment and risk management associated with Carbon Capture and Literature review

Risk assessment and risk management associated with Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) - Literature review Example This gas is produced from industries, vehicle emissions and households. Reduction in the amount of carbon dioxide released from industries would lead to significant cuts in the levels of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere thereby helping to control global warming and save the environment from the devastating impacts of global warming. One option explored in reducing the industrial carbon emission is the carbon capture and sequestration (CCS) (Gerard and Wilson, 2009, p. 1097). They describe carbon capture and sequestration as the process where carbon will be captured from industrial sources and it’s ultimately disposal it by storing it in underground geologic reservoirs rather than releasing it to the atmosphere (Stephens, 2006, p. 4). Carbon capture and storage is an attractive option as it will allow industries to continue using fossil fuels as it helps to stabilize the atmospheric levels of carbon emissions (Newmark, Friedmann & Carroll, 2010, p. 651). Moreover, CCS is both c ommercially viable and technologically feasible. Although CCS remains a viable option in helping stabilize the atmospheric carbon levels, it still has to demonstrate it is a feasible option in terms of cost and harmlessness to the environment ("Warning on carbon capture liability", 2007, p. 8). This means that it is possible to understand the risks associated with this technology and diverse strategies to manage this risk with include risks to the environment and human health and safety (Farret et al., 2011, p. 4193). The technology of carbon capture and storage is a system with four interrelated elements which should be studied in understanding the risks of the technology. These elements include capture, transport, injection and storage (Farret et al., 2011, p. 4193). ... ry, the public, regulatory agencies, customers, governments and in-plant personnel require that companies must demonstrate a commitment to control possibilities of incidents and hazards by conducting environmental, health and health related risks assessment. There are several methods that can be used in analysing risks involved such as Fault Tree Analysis technique (FTA), Life Cycle Assessment, Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) among others. Some of this techniques have been used other industries such as nuclear, chemical and oil and gas industries but have not been incorporated in analysing the risks associated with CCS although the risks are similar.FTA is an example of these methodologies which have successfully been used in risks assessment in nuclear and chemical industries although it has not been incorporated in CCS. Purpose of the Study This paper will review available literature addressing the risks assessment sand risk management of carbon capture and storage. The main aim of this study is to quantify the main risks associated with CCS project by the use of FTA method. This will consequently be used by the insurance companies to calculate the probability of an undesired event, identify safety critical functions/components/phases and assess the effects of design changes. This will in-turn be used to enable them adjust their present terms and premium rates when insuring CCS projects against risks. Moreover, the findings of this paper will help regulators and policy makers to better tailor the legislations to address the risks associated with CCS. 2.0 Qualitative Risk Assessment "Environmental Risk Assessment’’ (2004, p. 1) explains that risk has varying meanings depending on different contexts. To a common man, risks imply the concept of probability and

Anarchy State and Utopia Essay Example for Free

Anarchy State and Utopia Essay Distributive Justice Robert Nozick From Anarchy, State, and Utopia, 149-182, with omissions. Copyright @ 1974 by Basic Books, Inc. Reprinted by permission of Basic Books, a subsidiary of Perseus Books Group, LLC. The minimal state is the most extensive state that can be justified. Any state more extensive violates peoples rights. Yet many persons have put forth reasons purporting to justify a more extensive state. It is impossible within the compass of this book to examine all the reasons that have been put forth. Therefore, I shall focus upon those generally acknowledged to be most weighty and influential, to see precisely wherein they fail. In this chapter we consider the claim that a more extensive state is justified, because necessary (or the best instrument) to achieve distributive justice; in the next chapter we shall take up diverse other claims. The term distributive justice is not a neutral one. Hearing the term distribution, most people presume that some thing or mechanism uses some principle or criterion to give out a supply of things. Into this process of distributing shares some error may have crept. So it is an open question, at least, whether redistribution should take place; whether we should do again what has already been done once, though poorly. However, we are not in the position of children who have been given portions of pie by someone who now makes last minute adjustments to rectify careless cutting. There is no central distribution, no person or group entitled to control all the resources, jointly deciding how they are to be doled out. What each person gets, he gets from others who give to him in exchange for something, or as a gift. In a free society, diverse persons control different resources, and new holdings arise out of the voluntary exchanges and actions of persons. There is no more a distributing or distribution of shares than there is a distributing of mates in a society in which persons choose whom they shall marry. The total result is the product of many individual decisions which the different individuals involved are entitled to make. Some uses of the term distribution, it is true, do not imply a previous distributing appropriately judged by some criterion (for example, probability distribution); nevertheless, despite the title of this chapter, it would be best to use a terminology that clearly is neutral. We shall speak of peoples holdings; a principle of justice in holdings describes (part of) what justice tells us (requires) about holdings. I shall state first what I take to be the correct view about justice in holdings, and then turn to the discussion of alternate views. Section 1 The Entitlement Theory The subject of justice in holdings consists of three major topics. The first is the original acquisition of holdings, the appropriation of unheld things. This includes the issues of how unheld things may come to be held, the process, or processes, by which unheld things may come to be held, the things that may come to be held by these processes, the extent of what comes to be held by a particular process, and so on. We shall refer to the complicated truth about this topic, which we shall not formulate here, as the principle of justice in acquisition. The second topic concerns the transfer of holdings from one person to another. By what processes may a person transfer holdings to another? How may a person acquire a holding from another who holds it? Under this topic come general descriptions of voluntary exchange, and gift and (on the other hand) fraud, as well as reference to particular conventional details fixed upon in a given society. The complicated truth about this subject (with placeholders for conventional details) we shall call the principle of justice in transfer. And we shall suppose it also includes principles governing how a person may divest himself of a holding, passing it into an unheld state. ) If the world were wholly just, the following inductive definition would exhaustively cover the subject of justice in holdings. 1. A person who acquires a holding in accordance with the principle of justice in acquisition is entitled to that holding. 2. A person who acquires a holding in accordance with the principle of justice in transfer, from someone else entitled to the holding, is entitled to the holding. . No one is entitled to a holding except by (repeated) applications of 1 and 2. The complete principle of distributive justice would say simply that a distribution is just if everyone is entitled to the holdings they possess under the distribution. A distribution is just if it arises from another just distribution by legitimate means. The legitimate means of moving from one distribution to another are specified by the principle of justice in transfer. The legitimate first moves are specified by the principle of justice in acquisition. Whatever arises from a just situation by just steps is itself just. The means of change specified by the principle of justice in transfer preserve justice. As correct rules of inference are truth-preserving, and any conclusion deduced via repeated application of such rules from only true premisses is itself true, so the means of transition from one situation to another specified by the principle of justice in transfer are justice-preserving, and any situation actually arising from repeated transitions in accordance with the principle from a just situation is itself just. The parallel between justice-preserving transformations and truth-preserving transformations illuminates where it fails as well as where it holds. That a conclusion could have been deduced by truth-preserving means from premisses that are true suffices to show its truth. That from a just situation a situation could have arisen via justice-preserving means does not suffice to show its justice. The fact that a thiefs victims voluntarily could have presented him with gifts does not entitle the thief to his ill-gotten gains. Justice in holdings is historical; it depends upon what actually has happened. We shall return to this point later. Not all actual situations are generated in accordance with the two principles of justice in holdings: the principle of justice in acquisition and the principle of justice in transfer. Some people steal from others, or defraud them, or enslave them, seizing their product and preventing them from living as they choose, or forcibly exclude others from competing in exchanges. None of these are permissible modes of transition from one situation to another. And some persons acquire holdings by means not sanctioned by the principle of justice in acquisition. The existence of past injustice (previous violations of the first two principles of justice in holdings) raises the third major topic under justice in holdings: the rectification of injustice in holdings. If past injustice has shaped present holdings in various ways, some identifiable and some not, what now, if anything, ought to be done to rectify these injustices? What obligations do the performers of injustice have toward those whose position is worse than it would have been had the injustice not been done? Or, than it would have been had compensation been paid promptly? How, if at all, do things change if the beneficiaries and those made worse off are not the direct parties in the act of injustice, but, for example, their descendants? Is an injustice done to someone whose holding was itself based upon an unrectified injustice? How far back must one go in wiping clean the historical slate of injustices? What may victims of injustice permissibly do in order to rectify the injustices being done to them, including the many injustices done by persons acting through their government? I do not know of a thorough or theoretically sophisticated treatment of such issues. Idealizing greatly, let us suppose theoretical investigation will produce a principle of rectification. This principle uses historical information about previous situations and injustices done in them (as defined by the first two principles of justice and rights against interference), and information about the actual course of events that flowed from these injustices, until the present, and it yields a description (or descriptions) of holdings in the society. The principle of rectification presumably will make use of its best estimate of subjunctive information about what would have occurred (or a probability distribution over what might have occurred, using the expected value) if the injustice had not taken place. If the actual description of holdings turns out not to be one of the descriptions yielded by the principle, then one of the descriptions yielded must be realized. The general outlines of the theory of justice in holdings are that the holdings of a person are just if he is entitled to them by the principles of justice in acquisition and transfer, or by the principle of rectification of injustice (as specified by the first two principles). If each persons holdings are just, then the total set (distribution) of holdings is just. To turn these general outlines into a specific theory we would have to specify the details of each of the three principles of justice in holdings: the principle of acquisition of holdings, the principle of transfer of holdings, and the principle of rectification of violations of the first two principles. I shall not attempt that task here (Lockes principle of justice in acquisition is discussed below. ) . How Liberty Upsets Patterns It is not clear how those holding alternative conceptions of distributive justice can reject the entitlement conception of justice in holdings. For suppose a distribution favored by one of these non-entitlement conceptions is realized.

Case Study Research Essay Example for Free

Case Study Research Essay Case One: Barsz v. Max Shapiro, Inc. Ind. Ct. App. 600 N.E.2d 151 (1992) Fact: Marjorie Barsz brought negligence action against Shapiro’s Delicatessen Cafeteria to recover for personal injuries sustained when she slipped and fell, breaking her right ankle and left knee cap. Her husband, Carl Barsz brought action against the restaurant for loss of consortium with his wife due to Mrs. Barsz’s injuries. The Circuit Court of Shelby County granted summary judgment for the restaurant, and the plaintiffs appealed. The Court of Appeals of Indiana, First District held that genuine issues of material facts existed and reversed the summary judgment. Issue: Was Shapiro’s Delicatessen Cafeteria negligent in identifying and remedying the condition of the floor in the restaurant, causing Marjorie Barsz’s accident? Rule: GOLBA v. KOHL’S DEPT. STORE, INC. Ind. Ct. App. 585 N.E.2d 14 (1992) Analysis: To avoid summary judgment, Marjorie Barsz had to show that there was a defective condition in the floor of the restaurant which caused her slip and fall, and that the restaurant unreasonably failed to discover and remedy the hazardous condition. Genuine material facts existed which precluded summary judgment for the restaurant. Summary judgment is generally inappropriate in negligence cases. Trial Procedure Rule 56(C) Conclusion: A restaurant cannot be held strictly liable for a fall that occurred before having a reasonable chance to remove a foreign substance from its floor; restaurant as not the absolute guarantor of customer safety. However, summary judgment cannot be granted when a genuine material fact exists. Case Two: Golba v. Kohl’s Dept. Store, Inc. Ind. Ct. App. 585 N.E.2d 14 (1992) Facts: Plaintiff Stella Golba brought negligence action against defendant Kohl’s Department Store stemming from a slip and fall accident. Ms. Golba stepped on a small object on a glossy floor, causing her to trip and fall. The floor had only been swept once on the morning of the accident. The Circuit Court of Starke County granted the store’s motion for summary judgment, and the plaintiff appealed. The Court of Appeals of Indiana, Third District held that material issues of fact existed and reversed the summary judgment. Issue: Was Kohl’s Department Store negligent in maintaining their floors in a safe condition for patrons? Rule: BURRELL v. MEADS Ind. 569 N.E.2d 637 (1991) Analysis: A land owner is subject to liability for physical harm caused to his invitees by a condition on the land if, but only if, he knows or exercising reasonable care would discover the condition, and should realize that it is an unreasonable risk of harm to invitees, and should expect that they will not realize the danger, or will not protect themselves against it, and fails to exercise reasonable care to protect them against the danger. Normally, determining whether the host has exercised reasonable care to make their premises safe for an invitee is a question of fact for a jury. Conclusion: Sweeping of a floor only once in the morning does not constitute exercise of reasonable care to prevent injury to customers from objects left in the floor. The issue of fact as to whether the store had notice of the object in the floor precluded a summary judgment.

Wal Mart: An Example Of Operating Efficiency

Wal Mart: An Example Of Operating Efficiency Marketing experts ascribe Walmarts remarkable success to its strategy of local dominance. It is also argued, amongst other competing explanations, that Walmarts superior returns are due to its size and its purchasing power (Greenwald Kahn, 2005). The company is also regarded to be an example of operating efficiency, even as detractors allege that its operational success stems from an exploitation of its labour force (Greenwald Kahn, 2005). 1. Application of Porters Generic Strategy Model to Walmarts Growth Story Porters Generic Strategy Model, first advanced in 1985, states that a firms relative intra-industry position is driven by its choice of strategy for achievement of competitive advantage in terms of (a) cost leadership versus differentiation, and (b) competitive scope. Competitive scope differentiates between firms that target broad industry segments and those that concentrate on narrow segments. Generic strategies are valuable since they exemplify strategic positions at the broadest and simplest levels. Table 1 below represents the different alternatives available to firms for choice generic strategy (Stanford, 2010). Table 1: (Stanford, 2010). Porters Generic Strategies (source: Porter, 1985, p.12) Whilst all important participants in the retail sector offered the same range of extensive merchandise offerings, unexciting clean stores and welcoming sales personnel, Walmart differentiated itself with its ground-breaking approach to stores layouts and formats and its exceptionally efficient distribution system. The companys revolutionary distribution system facilitated the development and implementation of its Everyday Low Price (EDLP) stratagem and helped in raising its market share in the US from 9 % in 1987 to 31% in 2000 (Akella, Manvika Roberts, 2003). Walmarts ELDP process has remained its core company value since the launch of its first store in 1962 and has been the key driving force behind Walmarts sustained growth (MarketWatch, 2010). With value-for- money being an important determinant of consumer behaviour worldwide, the companys continued focus on prices and quality through the optimisation of its supply chain and strict control over administrative and workforce costs have been instrumental in its growth. The companys rigid attitude towards its workforce has, however, hurt its penetration in foreign markets like Germany. More attention to its labour policies could have possibly helped the company in strengthening its service without sacrificing costs and improved its efficiencies as well as its image. 2. Alternative Strategies Globally, and even within the US warehouse stores format, Walmarts operating strengths are commonplace where other retailers enjoy similar operating advantages of advertising, distribution and store supervision. Sam Waltons brilliance lay in recognising these realities, first by establishing control over a core region, followed by assailing weaker rivals on the territorial fringes, wherein his core advantages could be layered with comparative ease (Greenwald Kahn, 2005). Walmarts operating advantages have had limited impact in its overseas markets (Greenwald Kahn, 2005). Walmarts overseas returns, on invested capital or on sales, are less than half its domestic margins. Despite Wal-Marts more efficient and competitive operations, such advantages are diluted in overseas markets, even where they are controlled by domestic companies with less advanced technologies and operations (Greenwald Kahn, 2005). Alternative successful strategies could have involved a greater focus on domestic urban markets in the earlier years. The overseas market expansion should have been done only after better appreciation of the cultures of overseas target markets. It is acknowledged that Walmarts market supremacy lies in its distinctive logistics capabilities, which render the company its competitive advantage. Its cross-docking inventory coordination system ensures that merchandise movement between two loading docks occurs in less than two days (Fahy, 1996). Walmart has gained from this, not only in terms of reduced cost of sales, (by 2-3%), but also in curtailing inventories (Fahy, 1996), interest outlays, and working capital cycles. The system helps in value generation and augments competitive advantage (Fahy, 1996). It is extremely complex to replicate such advanced communication and synchronisation amongst the suppliers, distribution centres, sales outlets and depots. It is this ability to erect high barriers to replication that confers Walmart with its competitive advantage (Fahy, 1996). 3. Use of Generic Strategy Model for analysis of competitor activity and charting of future growth Market experts state that Walmarts success does not come about just because of its lower prices (Cowgill, 2005). Comparisons of various product category prices reveal that 80 to 85% of Wal-Marts merchandise is more expensively priced than at its competitors (Cowgill, 2005)With many of its competitors selling at lower prices, the companys extraordinary success is felt to be due to its expertise in manipulating perceptions regarding its cost leadership (Cowgill, 2005). It is this lack of understanding of Wal-Marts strategies and its organisational efficiency that has prevented competition from overtaking it (Cowgill, 2005). The majority of successful retailers focus on raising market share and turnover to improve financial results. Their focus now and in the past has been on increasing asset utilisation/turnover (Willard, 2006). Walmarts Inventory Reload and Remix schemes emphasise its different focus. Deload refers to the broad-based endeavour to shrink inventory levels (the biggest asset on most retailer balance sheets) at both stores and distribution centres (Willard, 2006). Project Remix centres on the velocity of individual SKU (semi-knocked-down unit) sales (Willard, 2006). The end goal at Walmarts is to boost inventory holding power and simultaneously move the goods from the backroom onto the rack swiftly and efficiently (Willard, 2006). Walmart has however not paid enough attention to the serious repercussions of its overzealous cost leadership. It has relentlessly pursued cost-cutting at the cost of its workforce. It has ruthlessly eliminated its neighbourhood competition and has extracted unbearable price reductions from its suppliers and service providers. Its biggest worry now is a larger stakeholder and public opinion. With local activists halting planned new stores, former employee groups initiating class-action discrimination legal suits, the media condemning the companys miserly benefits and voters in Europe calling for legislation for the protection of small retailers, adverse public opinion has turned cost leadership into the single largest threat to the future profitability and growth of Walmart. Company executives have conceded that its recent stock price weakness is linked to its deteriorating image (Carr, 2006). Wal-Marts strategy for damage control in this respect is criticality for its future growth. 4. Use of Porters Five Forces and SWOT analysis to understand Wal-Marts current position and recommendations for future strategy The Porters Five Forces Model (1980) for analysis of competitiveness encompasses the five forces of New Entrants, Substitutes, Supplier or Buyer Power and Existing Competitors (Lever, 2008). Walmart manages its intensely competitive environment well. It deploys its clout and negotiates the lowest possible prices, stretching suppliers beyond their limits (Bysani, 2003). The negotiating power of buyers and suppliers is low since Wal-Mart has established dominance in its domestic marketplace and its overseas market share is also growing (Bysani, 2003). The prospects for new entries are limited because of considerable setup costs and regulatory restrictions. The threat from substitute retail formats appears to be low (Bysani, 2003). Internecine competitive rivalry among industry participants is, however, high (Bysani, 2003). Whilst Porters 5 forces technique is simple, its weakness is its external focus (Lever, 2008). It is based purely on microeconomics (Recklies, 2001). The last few years have seen the emergence and growing dominance of deregulation, globalisation and digitalization, developments that are outside the realm of the Five Forces Model (Recklies, 2001). It is thus inadvisable to develop an analytical strategy based solely on Porters model (Recklies, 2001). SWOT, an analysis of internal and external environment, is a popular strategic tool that encompasses 4 key organisational dimensions, namely strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats (Lever, 2008). Walmart is the largest global retailer. This bestows the company with worldwide intra-industry status and recognition (Bysani, 2003). Its logistics capabilities, distribution centres and supplier relationships are key strengths that add value to its entire system (Bysani, 2003). Apart from Walmarts domestic urban marketplace opportunities, the growing middle class in emerging markets like India and China offers Wal-Mart a remarkable expansionary opportunity. E-commerce provides the organisation with another growth opportunity (Bysani, 2003). Walmart demonstrates less adaptability to overseas markets and cultures. Weaknesses also exist in its anti-trade and exploitative labour policies (Bysani, 2003). Threats to the company encompass anti-globalisation factions, resistance from customers in new markets, recent wars and outbursts, increased competition in mature European markets, zoning regulations and rising trade blocks (Bysani, 2003). Strengths and weaknesses identify and are identified by opportunities and threats (Valentin, 2005). Strengths help in thwarting impending threats and in recognising visible opportunities, whereas weaknesses leave a business defenceless or work against the generation of value to its stakeholders (Valentin, 2005). The SWOT framework, however, does not accept tradeoffs (Valentin, 2005). SWOT guidelines are limited further because they not only mix accomplishments with strengths but also lack norms for prioritising SWOTs (Valentin, 2005). Wal-Marts future strategy has to fundamentally sustain competitive advantages in addressing its trade practices in adopting best-in-class supply chain, customer relationships and environmental management. The company should also focus on non-exploitative and fair practices towards all its stakeholders, especially its workforce. Section B: Dominos Pizza in India Pavan Bhatia took over as the CEO of Dominos Pizza India Ltd. in November 1999 and led the company till May 2001.The operations of the company under his leadership is a better-known case study of fast food retail chains in developing economies. Dominos outlets, during this aggressive phase, were opened swiftly across the country and multiplied by four times to 100 from March 2000 to January 2001. Such expansion of outlets at Dominos had not until then been witnessed in any of the 63 countries in which it operated. The companys growth rate increased from an average 4 stores per year in its initial 4 years of operations to over 100 outlets across 30 cities during these 10 months (Icmrindia, 2001). Bhatias expansion initiative, whilst accepted by Dominos officials, did not find favour with the Board and led to the companys reorganisation. Jubilant Food Works Limited (JFL) now operates the Dominos pizza chain within the Indian domestic market. Its master franchise agreement with Dominos is valid till 2024. JFL is Indias first quick-service restaurant (QSR) chain to be publicly listed (Chelluri, 2010). Bhatias main objective for Dominos India Bhatia was extremely ambitious for Dominos India and his main objective was to make it the largest fast-food chain in the country (Icmrindia, 2001). In early 2001 Dominos India announced plans to invest Rs. 500 million during 2001and add a hundred outlets each year (Icmrindia, 2001). Bhatia tied up with Jet Airways in India in 2000 in order to introduce their ultimate deep dish and sweetie pie food products on all Jet flights (Icmrindia, 2001). He announced that For Dominos, the sky is the limit. We like to deliver hot, fresh pizzas everywhere, anytime. This tie-up with Jet Airways takes our commitment to customers on the move even a step further. Dominos also signed an agreement with Indian Oil Corporation (IOL) to offer food products from IOLs 7,500 outlets across India (Icmrindia, 2001). The situation became complicated, post the March 2001 board meeting, wherein Dominos top management decided that Pavan Bhatias performance had not been satisfactory during his tenure of 18 months (Icmrindia, 2001). The board opined that Bhatias expansion strategy was reckless and not properly thought out. Not many analysts, however, agreed with the boards decision and believed that the board was disregarding the probable long-term advantages of his strategy (Icmrindia, 2001). Whilst Dominos officials felt that there was nothing wrong with the pace of opening outlets, Hari Bhartia, a rival Board Member, felt the expensive organisational infrastructure, including the distribution centres set up in 1999, needed to be better utilised (Icmrindia, 2001). Dominos, contrary to other fast-food chains, which operated either on the franchise or self-owned outlets models, or both, operated through company-owned premises. This entailed huge investments in back-end infrastructure and analysts felt that the companys business model could not support such overheads and yet implement the proposed marketing plan (Icmrindia, 2001). 2. Application of STEP and Porters 5 Forces to Dominos Adopted Strategy The STEP model is a variation of the popular PEST analytical business measurement tool (Businessballs.com, 2010).The PEST model is useful for understanding environmental factors, more specifically the Political, Economic, Social and Technological factors, which are important for the activities of specific business firms (Businessballs.com, 2010). The Indian food and food-processing industry are burdened with scores of legislations. Dominos India realised that too many resources, effort and time was being diverted to unproductive and burdensome work, whether it related to acquiring scores of permits for every store in every city or whether it concerned issues like licensing, city laws, realty brokers, infrastructure, title, lease agreements, water, power, signage, markets and dealing with contending restaurants (Icmrindia, 2001). India also had a significantly low per capita income (of less than 30 USD per month in the early 2000s. Bhatia, despite such environmental indicators, launched Dominos outlets in numerous cities and small towns between March 2000 and January 2001. Pizza consumption in many of such places was extremely low. Analysts also felt that many Pizza consumers felt Dominos prices to be high and unaffordable (Icmrindia, 2001). The uncertain viability of certain outlets led to their closure, not just in small cities but also in prosperous Delhi and Ludhiana. Michael Porters 5 Forces theory argues that the competitiveness of an industry depends upon five dimensions, namely (a) existing competitive rivalry between suppliers (b) threat of new market entrants (c) bargaining power of buyers (d) power of suppliers and (e) threat of alternate products (counting technology change) (Businessballs, 2009). Dominos future in India is fraught with competition, despite having the first-mover advantage over competitors like Pizza Hut (Chelluri, 2010). The negotiating power of buyers and suppliers is not very high as Dominos has established some control over the marketplace. The threat of new entrants is high and is expected to arise from local quick service restaurants. Dominos competitors, apart from stand-alone pizza outlets and domestic and global pizza chains include casual dining and other food service establishments. The threat from substitute goods is high as new cuisines continue to be introduced across Indian markets. Customers can choose to consume food and food add-ons at highly competitive price points from diverse local and non-local food establishments. The array of offerings varies from simplistic takeaway fare to the major dine-in alternatives of wider range and better quality. Competitive rivalry in the food sector is intense and numerous food establishments open and close every year. The use of STEP and Five Forces analytical tools corroborates that the expansion strategy adopted by Pavan Bhatia was hasty and inappropriate to prevalent circumstances. Expansion strategy has to be customised to the needs of particular markets and should take account of the different concerns that emerge from STEP and Five Forces analysis. 3. Application of Force Field Analysis to facilitate Stakeholder Analysis Force Field Analysis, propounded by Kurt Lewin in 1951, is extensively utilised for decision-making, especially in organisational planning and executing change management programmes (ODI, 2009). It is a potent method for obtaining a comprehensive synopsis of the various forces impacting a potential policy issue, and for evaluating their source and strength (ODI, 2009). Force Field Analysis naturally follows the Problem Tree Analysis, which is used for identification of policy changes. The stakeholder Analysis is a constructive continuation of Force Field Analysis and involves the recognition of particular stakeholders, who are in favour of or against change, along with their influence and interests (ODI, 2009). Stakeholder analysis aims to categorise the stakeholders (external or internal) that are impacted by the outcomes of specific performance improvement project (Alvord, 2010). Such an analysis helps in the determination of all perspectives and allows them to be represented in the performance project design process. No particular perspective is permitted to dominate a process in such circumstances (Alvord, 2010). Stakeholders depict individuals or enterprises that stand to benefit or lose from the achievement or failures of performance improvement effort. Their interests, in terms of needs and expectations in such matters, can be professional, monetary, cultural, personal, or can even arise from a horde of other motivations (Alvord, 2010). Stakeholders characteristically have positive or negative perspectives regarding a particular project, and frequently disagree amongst themselves, making it difficult to resolve diverse viewpoints (Alvord, 2010). Influence signifies a stakeholders comparative power and control over and in a project. Influence is described as the degree to which a stakeholder can influence project operations and hence shape project outcomes (Alvord, 2010). Management need to strategise and implement satisfactory decisions for the benefit of all or most stakeholders. They must otherwise make efforts to ensure that influential and genuine stakeholders are not too dissatisfied (Alvord, 2010). The most vital stakeholders, as inferred from a Stakeholder Analysis are the shareholders, franchisees, technology partners, and customers, the first three due to their ownership, project funding, franchising and technological capabilities, and the last for their purchasing power and income generating capability. The primary facilitator in the entire project performance is the workforce, (including the management), which is administered and self-managed by the senior management of the company. The management is accountable to the Board of Directors and it is the relative influence of constituents of the Board that decides the formulation and implementation of the organisational strategies and policies. The Board is ultimately accountable to the shareholders. The suppliers and service providers are next in relevance due to their lesser influence on the operations. Section C: IBM 1. Application of Porters Generic Strategy Model to explain IBMs Competitive Advantage before the 1980s Porters Generic Strategy Model avers that the position of an enterprise relative to its industry is led by its selection of a strategy for attaining competitive advantage, with relation to choosing between cost leadership and differentiation, and its competitive scope. Generic strategies represent strategic positions at the simplest and broadest levels (Stanford, 2010). Competitive advantage comes about when a companys product or service generates more value (symbolic, as well as in its features) for the customer than a contending product or service. To illustrate, IBMs introduction of the Selectric typewriter offered both kinds of value for users and buyers (Heide, 1992). There are two approaches, (which are not mutually exclusive), of deploying IT to gain competitive advantage, firstly, as an important product or service seller or service provider in the market to external customers, and secondly, as an organisational support system, which is transparent to the customer, for a product or service (Heide, 1992) IBM dominated the computer markets during the 1960s and the 1970s. Its superior service, during this period, was the source of its competitive advantage. The adage No data processing manager was ever fired for ordering IBM implied the unmatched commitment to service. Improved broad-based computer reliability in contemporary times, along with the technology led shift towards workstations and personal computers, has however made competition in the industry more difficult, counteracting IBMs distinct competency as a basis of sustainable advantage (Werther Kerr, 1995). It is difficult to sustain a specific competitive advantage in IT-based products and services in the contemporary era as competitors replicate successful moves swiftly (Heide, 1992). The product life cycle in several high-tech sectors like semiconductors and personal computers is normally as low as three to five years (Heide, 1992). Companies in such industries launch upgraded or radically novel products with short development cycles, much before the competition or the subsequent generation of products eats into their profits (Heide, 1992). Companies deploying such differentiation strategies (Porter, 1980) gain competitive advantage through the unique design, quality, creativity, customer support, and inherent research of their products or services (Heide, 1992). Other companies, intra-industry, often follow with lower-cost substitutes (Porter, 1980) (Heide, 1992). 2. Application of Porters Generic Strategy and Ansoff Models to Illustrate the Regaining by IBM of its Differentiated Position Michael Porters Generic Strategies model postulates that companies have three fundamental strategic alternatives for garnering competitive advantage, namely (a) Cost Leadership (b) Differentiation and (c) Focus (Stanford, 2010). The Ansoff matrix, on the other hand, helps organisations in deciding their growth strategies. It provides strategic alternatives on the products or services an organisation should offer and on the marketplaces that are crucial its growth and success (Verbera, 2009). The Ansoff matrix provides four feasible product/market permutations, namely market penetration, market development, product development and diversification (Ansoff 1957, 1989) (Verbera, 2009). Diversification is a popular strategic option for companies in the current competitive business environment. IBM owes much of its gains in recent years to its policy of carefully thought out and consistent diversification (Verbera, 2009). The company previously pursued a vertical integration stratagem, involving its entry into new industries to reinforce its core business, model. It benefited from backwards vertical integration with the disk-drive sector and forward vertical integration with the computer software and consulting services industries (Hill et al, 2007). IBMs vertical integration policy was previously an important source of competitive advantage (Verbera, 2009). IBMs subsequent policy of diversification, entailing the acquisition of over 400 businesses, was felt to be high risk by market observers. Its significant success is now however attributed to the companys business foresight and effective control mechanisms. The use of the Ansoff Matrix helps in analysing IBMs strategic choices for regaining its position of differentiation from other market participants and leads to the conclusion that organisations need to modify their strategic alternatives in accordance with the changing competitive scenario (Verbera, 2009). The emergence of the desktop computer in the 1980s changed the fundamentals of IBMs markets. The company during this period tried to reposition itself quite a few times. It sometimes appeared that different groups favoured different strategies and by 1992, the company was contemplating a break-up strategy. Louis Gerstner, CEO of IBM from 1993 to 2002 is credited with bringing about strategic changes that changed organisational fortunes and reinstated the companys erstwhile important position in the computer industry (Kelly, 2004). Gerstner did not veer IBM on a new course. He was, in fact, instrumental in taking it back to its roots. IBM had for decades stayed with its strategy of offering one-stop shopping to large companies for their information services, (IS); a strategy termed as singleness. It strayed from the strategy during the 1980s, alienated its clients, and under Gerstners leadership reverted back to it. The company went back to being a full-service provider for its clients and administering their technological integration. This singleness strategy has been formulated for the current IS environment (Mills, 1996). Gerstner kept the company together, refocused on the IT services sector, and embraced the Internet. His efforts resulted in one of the most extraordinary revivals in business history. 3. Application of the Boston Consulting Group Matrix to Analyse and Justify IBMs Products and Service positions The BCG Matrix provides a useful method for portfolio planning, through the evaluation of the health of different players within a portfolio of businesses or product lines (Mixner, 2006). Developed by Bruce Henderson at the Boston Consulting Group during the early 1970s, Â  the BCG growth-share matrix evaluates businesses or products as high or low performers, based on their comparative market growth rate with regard to the market share of the next best competitor (Docstoc, 2010). Different businesses or products, in the BCH Matrix, are categorised as Cash Cows, Stars, Question Marks, or Dogs on the basis of their performance (Docstoc, 2010). The BCG concept calls upon organisations to appreciate that Stars represent the best place for an investment of limited funds, because of their potential to achieve high market share within a high market growth segment, for the production of optimal profits (Mixner, 2006). There are difficulties with this analysis. The various problems with such an approach include the high expected expenditure associated with the growth of market share, difficulties of increasing profitability in challenging marketplaces and the possibly incorrect supposition of confirmed market growth (Mixner, 2006). IBM, based on the BCG Matrix portfolio analysis, appears to have a number of star businesses in the Systems and Technology Group. These have lead positions in their market segments and continue to maintain the high overall business growth rate in spite of emerging competitors. The Consulting and IT ITES services segments can be considered as Cash Cows, because of their strong market share and their potential to sustained profits and cash flows. The hardware segment within computer technology has seen commoditization over the last several years due to plummeting prices (Korzeniowski, 2003). This would require it to be placed, either in the Question Mark or Dogs category, because of inadequate profitability and steep competition. These businesses can be divested at appropriate valuations. 4. Strategic Recommendations for IBM with the Application of Porters Generic Strategy and BCG Matrix models The use of Porters Generic Strategy and BCG matrix models and a study of IBMs current and envisioned product lines reveals that IBM has a few enormously exciting models that should sustain and thrust its future growth. The company should focus on cloud computing, BPTS (Business-Performance-Transformation services) and grid computing. Inorganic investments in related enterprises, emerging or otherwise, will facilitate sustained star performance and maintain its eminent position in the overall IT ITES space. IBM CEO Sam Palmisano states that BPTS, involving a combination of IT and business-process outsourcing (BPO) with intelligent software and consulting services, has a potential $500 billion market. Consultants from IBM Business Consulting Group assist customers in deploying BPTS services for streamlining and re-engineering self-styled SGA (selling, general and administrative) processes like finance, accounting, and HR management ( McDougall, 2005). IBM has also recently announced its suite of cloud computing solutions, IBM Smart Business cloud services portfolio and IBM CloudBurst systems, which essentially comprise of pre-integrated software, hardware and services offerings that offer customers novel delivery models for IT ITES capabilities (MacSweeney, 2009). The IBM Mass Lab is generating software to manage some of the worlds most complicated process and infrastructure projects in areas like railroads, food traceability, water management and healthcare modernisation. Much of software demand is being generated by the requirement to modernise and automate nearly every system, for example, energy management, et al through smart grids (Ebizq, 2010). The IBM Mass Lab is generating software to cater to the new era of enterprise mobile computing for more efficient convergence and integration to support an exponentially increasingly mobile workforce (Ebizq, 2010). Grid computing has regained favour and is helping IBM in retaining its position of a chief industry vendor (Korzeniowski, 2003). Both the Porters and BCG models necessitate the recommendation that IBM focus and deploy all its assets (physical, information and intangible) in achieving differentiation for each of its product and service segments to remain in the star quadrant of the BCG Matrix. The company should however seriously think of exiting its slow-moving hardware business. Bharti Airtel Ltd: An Analysis Bharti Airtel Ltd: An Analysis This assignment has mainly been done to provide a discussion as to the application of Strategic Business Management and planning within current global business environment. For this study I have used a case study on Bharti Airtel Ltd that is an Indian mobile telephone company. Accordingly, this assignment basically covers followings objectives. Understanding the role of strategic business planning in Bharti Airtel Ltd Understanding of the strategies Bharti Airtel Ltd use to achieve competitive advantage Understanding of the impact of internal and external factors on Bharti Airtel Ltd Understanding of the environmental factors that have an effect on strategic business management and planning About Bharti Airtel Ltd Bharti Airtel Ltd is a one of the leading global telecommunication companies that operates in 19 countries across Africa and Asia having 200 million customers. It is a one of the six best performing technology companies in world that has been ranked by business week. Bharti Airtel Ltd mainly offers following services to its customers: Mobile voice and data services Fixed telephone line High speed broadband services IPTV, DTH Turnkey telecom solutions for enterprises National international long distance services to carriers (Source: About Bharti Airtel Ltd, available from: http://www.airtel.in/wps/wcm/connect/about+bharti+airtel/Bharti+Airtel/About+bharti+airtel/?WCM_Page.ResetAll=TRUECACHE=NONECONTENTCACHE=NONECONNECTORCACHE=NONESRV=Page (Accessed on 10th March 2012) 1.1 Identify and critically evaluate Bharti Airtels goals, objectives and values It is said that global business environment is changing structurally and, in all probability (Kourdi 2003). Hence, any type of business organization should have strong, transference goals, objectives and values in order to succeed the business. They enable the managers of the organization to formulate and manage appropriate strategies within the business. Accordingly, in this section I will identify and evaluate goals, objectives and core values of Bharti Airtel Ltd. Goals and Objectives of Airtel Undertaking of transformational projects which has a positive impact on the society while contributing to build the nation Diversification into new businesses in sectors such as financial services, agriculture and retail business with world class partners To lay the foundation for creating a conglomerate of future Core Values of Airtel Being Flexible for the adaptation of the environment changes and evolving customers needs Openness and transparency Give power to People to do their best Creating Positive Impact on the society by creating a meaningful difference Making it happen through the innovation of new ideas with entrepreneurial spirit If we look at the above goals and objectives of Airtel, we can identify that they have been achieving them to a certain extent. If we consider the objective of diversification into new business, Airtel has been accessing to such business sectors. For example, now they have been engaging financial services in India through telephony services. Acquisitions of Airtel throughout the world convince us that Airtel has created a foundation for conglomerate of future. Above mentioned core values of Airtel which are the beliefs of owners have been the keys to its success. 1.2 Suggest ways in which Bharti Airtel can replicate its success in India in foreign markets It is a big challenge for any business to have or replicate its success in globe due to higher completion. For this purpose, business organizations must formulate and implement business strategies that suits global market conditions. Bharti Airtel has been succeeding mainly due to its values and management. In this section, I am going to suggest ways to Bharti Airtel that may assist in replicating its success in India and foreign market. Further acquisitions and mergers with other telephony service companies in India and foreign markets: Since Airtel has a healthy financial strength, it can focus on the acquisition of telephony service companies such as Reliance Comm. This will increase the customer base of Airtel. Access and expansion of Airtels business operations in to other countries such as United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and Qatar Widening 4G network coverage within the areas in which Airtel operates: Airtel can widen its 4G network coverage through rural areas in India. Doing they can increase its market while supporting the nation building process in India. Introducing and promoting new innovative services that match with telephony service industry such new advance technologies such as ATM recharge Launching low price promotions to attract mass customers as much as possible Differentiation of the brand through emotional perspectives 1.3 Using your knowledge of different strategy development models analyse Bharti Airtels development of its strategy and identify the model(s) applicable to them. Bharati Airtel Ltd has been market leader in India since its business models and strategies attracted many industry experts admiration. So they have been innovative in formulating and implementing business strategies through strategy development models. Now let us analyse development of strategy in Bharti Airtel by using strategy development models applicable to them. 1.3.1 Porters Five Forces Model Threat of New Entrants Due to increase demand for telephony services in worldwide, there are possibilities for new investors to start their business in this field. Accordingly, Bharti Airtel may encounter threats from entrants in to its market in India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Africa. The number of players in telecommunication industry in India has increased and it has caused Bharti Airtel to change its strategic approaches that they followed. Furthermore the inclusion of technologies such as 3G has into the industry has brought many entries in to the telecommunication industry. Hence, we can see an increasing threat from the new entrance into the telecommunication market. Bargaining Power of Suppliers We can see uniqueness in telecommunication equipment suppliers in the global market. There is not a perfect market for telecom related equipments and materials such as fibre optic cables, broadband switching equipment and software etc in the globe. Thus it can be seen that there is a bargaining power over Bharti Airtel. Whereas we can see an increasing trend towards the arrival suppliers in relations to the telecommunication related equipment. This have reduced Bargaining Power of Suppliers that may be encountered Bharti Airtel. Bargaining Power of Buyers In the telecom industry, the biggest is held by the customers. If customers are not satisfied, they may shift to other telephony service companies. Customers can be retained if quality services are provided for affordable prices. Accordingly, Bharti Airtel has been following cost leadership strategy to cope up Bargaining Power of its customers. Availability of Substitutes Presently, internet services have been the domain of mobile services. Hence internet sector and telephone services have come under one sector. With the arrival of broadband, WiFi internet services and new technological mobile devices, people have been able to have the role of telephone such as phone calls and SMS done through internet calls and chat services such as SKYPE, Yahoo messenger. These threats from such substitute products have becoming a significant issue for Bharti Airtel. Nevertheless Bharti Airtel has been developing and implementing many strategies to cope up such threats by expanding its internet services and introducing new products like IPTV, DTH services for its sustainable growth. Competitive Rivalry In Asia and Africa there is a high competition among telephony service providers. For examples, in India Bharti Airtels main competitors are Vodafone Essar and Reliance Comm. In the same manner it has many competitors in Sri Lanka such as Etisalat, Dialog, Mobitel and Hutch. Therefore we can see that there is a huge competition in the telephony services industry in Asia and Africa. So Bharti Airtel is implementing strategies such as cost leadership, differentiation in order to get competitive advantages. 2.1 Analyse the acquisition of Zain Africa by Bharti Airtel. If you were their consultant, would you have advised them to go ahead with the deal? In this chapter, I am going to analyse the acquisition of Zain Africa made by Bharti Airtel through the PESTEL and SWOT analysis. Afterwards I will evaluate the benefits that Bharti Airtel can have from the acquisition and potential problems that Bharti Airtel may have on its operation. 2.1.1 SWOT Analysis The SWOT analysis is a useful tool for decision making process and understanding all kind of situation which can arise in a business organization (Pearce, Robinson Mital, 2008). Accordingly, the word SWOT stands for Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats of an organization. Now let us analyse Bharti Airtel acquisition of Zain Africa by using SWOT analysis. Table 1 provides the SWOT analysis as to the acquisition of Zain Africa. Strengths New market power over 17 African countries and 5 middle east countries Addition of 42 million subscribers to Airtels subscriber base Acquisition of more skilled employees Increase reputation of Bharti Airtel brand Entrance in to the league of worlds top five mobile network operators Weaknesses Financial difficulties may arise because money amounting to $7.87 Billion have been invested on the acquisition Amount spent on the acquisition seems to be expensive Most of the African countries like Uganda, Ghana and Madagascar have a very lower ARPU compared to others African countries Morale and commitment of existing employees may reduce due to new employees Difficulties may arise when Bharti Airtel coping up with organizational cultural changes in Africa Opportunities Bharti Airtel can dominate many telephony service market with its economies of scale Opportunity to build new kind of telephone services over subscribers in Africa. Opportunity for expanding of Airtels telecommunications operations further Africa the opportunity for restructuring of Bharti Airtels business operations Threats Falling of Airtels stock price by 9.22% during announcement of the acquisition Possible counter attack from other telephony services companies in Africa Management of Bharti Airtel may be excessively focused on the acquisition rather than focuses on the operations Table 1: SWOT Analysis for Bharti Airtel acquisition of Zain Africa 2.1.2 Benefits of the acquisition of Zain Africa With the the acquisition of Zain Africa, Bharti Airtel have been able to enter top five mobile network operators in the world. Bharti Airtel and Zain Africa fit well together because both companies have valuable skills and experience to deliver quality telephony services to the customers. As a result, there is an opportunity for Bharti Airtel to be the market leader in Africa. Global reputation of Bharti Airtel increases due to this acquisition. Increase in global customers of Bharti Airtel by an amount of 42 million This acquisition has led Bharti Airtel to boost its achievements in telecommunication sector in world wide. Finally this acquisition of Zain Africa as a growth strategy enables Bharti Airtel to expand its business operations to a greater extent. 2.1.3 Potential problems of the acquisition of Zain Africa Amount spent on Bharti Airtels acquisition of Zain Africa seems to be little bit expensive There may be complexities when such expanded business operations are going to be managed by Bharti Airtel Bharti Airtel may encounter some financial problems when a significant investment is again required to operate the business. Existing employees moral may decrease with new acquisition of Zain Africas employees. There may be some complexities when cultural changes which occur as result of this acquisition are going to be managed. According to the above evaluation of Bharti Airtels acquisition of Zain Africa, we can recommend this deal since it brings many advantages to Bharti Airtel Ltd for the current period as well as future periods. 2.2 Analysis of Bharti Airtels strategy for remaining competitive and increasing market share and subscriber base Due to the higher population in India, presently there is an emerging of more competitors such as local competitors as well as international competitors such as Vodafone and DoCoMo into Indian telephony service market. This has been a min threat for Bharti Airtel to cope up. Accordingly, Bharti Airtel should formulate and manage strategies so as to have competitive advantages over it competitors while increasing its market share. In this section, I will analyse strategy that Bharti Airtel is following to have competitive advantages. According to the case study Bharti Airtel Ltd, we can notice that they are following cost leadership strategy as its competitive strategy to remain competitive in the market. Due to the competition in telecommunication industry in India, Average Revenue per User (ARPU) in India which is one of lower ARPU in the world was declined. Bharti Airtel has Rs. 438 ARPU in 2005 and that was declined to around Rs 350 in middle of 2008. Part of this reduction can be attributed to low price life time recharge promotion sheme that Bharti Airtel introduced in 2007. Finally ARPU of Bharti Airtel has declined to Rs 230 by the end of 2009. Figure 1: Average Revenue per User (ARPU) of Bharti Airtel in its Indian Market According to the above figure 1, we can see that ARPU of Bharti Airtel is gradually decreasing due to its main cost leadership strategy. Although its ARPU is decreasing, Bharti Airtel has been able to remain competitive in the business because its application of cost leadership strategy has been increasing its market share as well subscriber base. 2.3 Critically assess the risks faced by Bharti Airtel in Africa and how they can overcome the risks There is probability to have a lower ARPU form African customers since Zains ARPU is less than 1$ and lower revenue in 2009 compared to 2008. This is mainly due to the fact that many African countries consumers have very little purchasing power. Thus, Bharati Airtel should decrease its prices and increase number of subscribers in African countries as to its sustainability growth. Since Zains African market had been struggling, there is a possibility not to deliver values to its shareholders. Zain was market leader only in ten of the fifteen African countries it may difficult for Airtel to dominate such markets. Thus, it has to adopt cost leadership and focus strategis for the growth of the business by which core values can be created. Bharati Airtels debt to equity ratio may increase to 1:1 due to long term borrowings from banks. This will lead solvency problems in future. Thus, it should try to raise fund through retained earnings, ordinary shares while making net profits in future. Cost of base stations in Africa is high since its cost is 3 times compared with Europe. This indicates that Bharati Airtel have to incure relatively high capital expenditure. With a higher capital investment and lower ARPU, it may generate lower Return on Investment for Bharati Airtel Ltd. Cultural, language and regulatory differences in the 15 African countries is a big challenge for Bharati Airtel. If they do not adopt such differences quickly, it may lead to an interruption for it operations in African market. Accordingly, Bharati Airtel should be dealing with 15 countries, 15 governments and 15 regulatory regimes effectively and efficiently to overcome possible operational interruptions. There are high fluctuations in local currencies of African countries. This may bring foreign currency risk for Bharati Airtel. Thus, Bharati Airtel should arrange hedging contracts with parties so as to reduce such risks. 3.1 Critically analyse Bharti Airtels, mission, vision and Strategic intent Before Strategic intent of Bharti Airtel is analysed, I will analyse vision and mission of Bharti Airtel because vision and mission of Bharti Airtel express its Strategic intent in broad terms and in specific terms. Vision Statement of Bharti Airtel Ltd To be globally admired for telecom services that delight customers Accordingly we can see that Bharti Airtels vision reflect what it does and the future status of the organization that it expect to be. This presents the detailed picture of Bharti Airtel while providing the major reason to do its business. This provides the company to go head successfully as it provides long term direction to employees. Mission Statement of Bharti Airtel Ltd We will meet global standards for telecom services that delight customers through customer service focus, empowered employees, innovative services and cost efficiency Accordingly we can see that mission statement of Bharti Airtel consists of following 3 essential components: Key market : Global telecom market Contribution: Telecom services Distinction : customer service focus, innovative services and cost efficiency Strategic intent of Bharti Airtel Bharti Airtels dtrategic intent express that it tries to give a telecom service that admired globally to its customer in a manner that they will be delightful. This indicates Bharti Airtel is prepared flexibility when several situations occur in global business environment. Accordingly this provides a direction, discovery and destiny for Bharti Airtels operations. 3.2 In the process of developing their strategy, do you think that Bharti Airtel used incremental change or transformational change? Analyse your answers There should be a transformational change in the internal environment of Bharati Airtel when they develop strategies. That is organization structure and culture of Bharti Airtel may have to be changed due to its new strategies being developed. Strategies are mainly prepared to cope up both internal and external environmental changes. Thus, when strategies are developed, they have to developed and implemented so as to adopt for such changes. As a result, Bharti Airtel should used transformational changes within its business operations. For example, acquisition strategy of Bharti Airtel led them to change its organizational structure and culture as they expanded its operation into Africa. Hence, they cannot do its operations in Africa with its previous organizational structures and cultures when they do business in Africa. Accordingly Bharti Airtel must adopt and use transformational changes such as adoption to African culture and regulations etc so as to develop and implement strategies in order achieve a sustainable growth. Analyse the potential impact of global issues in telecommunication industry and its effect of Bharti Airtel Political Unsuitability in countries Many of African countries have unstable government which directly affect the operations of Airtel in African countries. When government changes policies, laws and regulations of such countries may be changed. Hence, it may affect the smooth operation of Bharti Airtel. So they have to change its strategies so as to adopt such governmental changes. Issues in global economic conditions Global financial crisis, brewing for a while, demonstrate its effects in 2007 and 2008. As a result, stock market s around the world fell down and large financial institutions collapsed. Source: Global Financial Crisis-Global Issues, Available from: http://www.globalissues.org/article/768/global-financial-crisis (Accessed on 10th March 2012) Accordingly, there is possibility of global economy to unstable. If such thing happend, it would have seriously affect the operations of Airtel. There was high rate of corruption in African countries With the high rate of corruptions of people in Africa, Bharti Airtel will have an issue with regard to recovery of post paid bills from such people. Issues in bringing technologies to African countries The cost for establishment of base station in some African countries is 3 times compared with Europe. The cost of a base station in African countries is about $180,000 to $200,000. In Europe country the base station would cost about $50,000 to $60,000. Therefore, Airtel will have to invest more money on base stations. Threat of Internet for traditional role of telephone services such as phone calls and SMS In the world today, we can see that the internet has become the future of connectivity. With the arrival of free services such as Skype, Yahoo Messanger etc, there is a threat for telephony service companies. There is trend that people are becoming used to such free services. Accordingly demand for phone call services and Short Message Services in Airtel may decrease. Identify and critically analyse the impact of different stakeholders in Bharti Airtel Stakeholders are the outside entities and people that have an interest in an business organization (Verzuh 2003). Stakeholders of Bharti Airtel can be identified as follows. Customers Business and Individual customers like to experience the quality and prices of services provided by Bharti Airtel. If quality of its service is low, customers may shift to other service providers. Competitors Competitors such as Vodafone Essar, Reliance Comm, MTN and Vodacom are interested to know strategies of Airtel so as to give a counter attack toward airtel. Share holders of Bharti Airtel Shareholders of Bharti Airtel interested in the financial performance of the company. If the company is not performing well, shareholder may change the director board or dispose their shares. Government bodies Government bodies in each geographical area such as India, Sri Lanka and African countries have major impact on Bharti Airtel since they may change laws and regulations regarding telecommunication industry. Suppliers Supplies of telecommunication related equipments and Material know the financial positions and operations of Airtel so as to convince that they can continue the relation with Bharti Airtel. Employees of Bharti Airtel Employees are interested to their job safety and rewards. Employees may resign from the company if they were not treated well. Propose and argue ways in which Bharti Airtel can respond to the environmental factors affecting its Africa operations Political environment Many of African countries have unstability in their political positions. Airtel can cope up with these governmental changes by developing strategies that suits with such changes and keeping connections with such governments. Poor economic conditions in African countries Bharti Airtel can do its operations in African countries with such economic conditions by introducing low price scheme and increasing subscriber base. This will allow the company to give a higher competition towards other telephony service providers. Higher currency fluctuations in many African countries I suggest Airtel to have hedging contracts with banks so as to reduce such foreign currency risks. But this may take away the opportunities of having foreign currency gains. Low level of urbanization in African countries populations To cope up this environmental factor, Bharti Airtel should install additional towers and radios in such areas. This require substantial amount of capital to be invested. Conclusion The acquisition of Zain Africa has led Bharti Airtel Ltd to expand its operations globally and it can be considered as a prominent growth strategy of Airtel. Objectives of Airtel such as undertaking transformational projects and diversification into new businesses such as financial services have been achieved to some extent. Development of strategies of Airtel have enabled them to achive such objectives while having core values such as quick adaptation for the environment changes and customers needs, openness and transparency etc. The main competitive strategy that Bharti Airtel uses is low cost leadership. The acquisition of Zain Africa have brought benifits to Airtel such as New market power over 17 African countries while having 42 million subscribers to its subscriber base. But operations in such countries has been challenge for Airtel due to political instability, poor economic conditions and higher cost on base station. Therefore, Bharti Airtel must develop and apply appropriat e strategies in African countries in order to have sustainability growth.