Activity Based Learning in Commerce Education Essay

Vocational education covers education and skill developed at all levels from post-primary to tertiary education both through formal and non-formal programme. Technical and Vocational Education, defined it as a â€Å"Comprehensive term embracing those aspects of the educational process involving, in addition to general education, the study of technologies and related sciences and the acquisition of practical skills, attitudes, understanding and knowledge relating to occupations in the various sectors of economic and social life. The main objectives of the vocational education are to fulfill the national goals of development and the removal of unemployment and poverty, to impart education relevant to increased production and productivity, economic development and individual prosperity, to meet the need for skilled and middle-level manpower for the growing sectors of economy, both organised and unorganized, to attract sizeable segment of population to varied vocational courses so as to reduce the rush to general education courses of universities and institutions for higher learning and to prepare students for self-reliance and gainful self-employment. The primary objective of Commerce education the preparation of people to enter upon a business career, or having entered upon such a career, to render more efficient service therein and to advance from their present levels of employment to higher levels. † During the post independence era, commerce education has emerged as one of the most potential pursuits in the wake of industrialization. Most of the Education Commissions have held that commerce education is primarily meant for providing the students in-depth knowledge of different functional areas of business so as to prepare people required by the community for the purposes of trade, commerce and industry. Commercial activity is present in almost every day-to-day activity that takes place in our environment. Formal courses at schools and colleges are only systematic, scholarly presentations/records of the experience. For teaching any subject effectively first of all teacher should be clear about its general as well as specific objectives of each topic/concepts because this will only help the teacher in selecting the appropriate approach and method of teaching according to the content. So for teaching commerce effectively teacher has to be thorough with the objectives of teaching commerce at all levels. Commerce is a subject which is very close to us, so for effective teaching of commerce it is all about listening, questioning, being responsive, and remembering that each student and class is different. For this teacher should adopt Socratic instruction approach. It’s all about eliciting responses and developing the oral communication skills of the quiet students. It’s all about pushing students to excel, which is basic requirement of commerce teaching. Commerce is a subject where a teacher can use all the methods effectively such as lecture, discussion, role playing, seminar, supervised as well as independent study, project method, field trip, etc. A major concern however is that teacher should actually use these methods in classroom teaching. Activity method is quite suitable for teaching Commerce as a Vocational Subject. In the wards of Rousseau, â€Å"Instead of making the child stick to is books keep him busy in workshop where his hands will work to the profit of his mind. † Thus learning by doing, by activity and experience is the first and the most natured form of learning. One of the arguments against using these methods is that they consume more time but if we use different methods according to the needs of the content then it will help in achieving HOTS at the same time they are not at all time consuming. For example if you field trip as a method for teaching banking it will consume at the most two-three hours to take students to the nearby bank and observe the functions of the employees of the bank and then the teacher can just discuss about the observations of the students in the class room and with this the chapter will be over. This will also help in retention of knowledge for longer period. This is also one of the ways to facilitate learning i. e. relating the curriculum to the student’s lifestyles. Teaching of commerce can be made more effective by relating the subject/content with the daily life of the students and commerce is such a subject who can be related with the daily life of the students by giving examples, by adopting project based learning method. Right from the beginning we are saying that commerce is a practical subject as well as related to real life, so for teaching it effectively we should encourage students’ participation. For students participation teacher should provide opportunity to students to ask questions, answer questions in a meaningful way, offer challenging and thought provoking ideas, plan interactive activities, show approval for students’ ideas, incorporate student’s ideas into lessons, and ask students whether they have understood the concept before proceeding. Keeping in view the importance of activity method for commerce education we present this paper entitled â€Å"Activity Based Learning in Commerce Education – With Special Reference to Vocational Commerce Education†. The main objectives of this paper is to: †¢Describe the meaning and importance of activity-based education. †¢Apprise the Service Activities in commerce based vocational education. †¢Explain the Internship/On-the Job Training activities in commerce based vocational education. †¢Analyze the School/College based Enterprise Education – Production-cum Training activities in commerce based vocational education. †¢Examine Education and Business Partnership/Institute – Industry Linkages activity in commerce based vocational education. Meaning and Importance of Activity based Learning Activity-based instruction involves the activities. This is in opposite of pure lectures. It means hands-on approaches to instruction, using manipulative to engage multiple senses, as opposed to just listening to a lecture. For instance, the teacher used note cards in a lesson to teach complete subjects and predicates. On the note cards he wrote (from a prompt) complete subjects and complete predicates, separate from each other, and had the students find their match. As opposed to just listen the teacher tells them what the differences are, they see them, evaluate them, and synthesize them. Activity-bases instruction revolves around students learning though hands-on activities. This method can be great, especially for tactile learners. It breaks up the monotony of the basic teacher-led lecture; students listen and take notes system. Let’s face it, not all students learn from listening to their teacher drone on for 50-90 minutes a day. Activity-based allows students to demonstrate an understanding of the material and, usually, work with a partner or group, which leads to socialization Activity based learning, on the other hand, helps children connect their learning to real life and encourages them to innovative ideas. In the end, it is only creativity that leads to path breaking discoveries and inventions in the world. Activity based learning, therefore, holds the key to better and more relevant education. What is Hands-On Learning? Hands-on learning is learning by doing. Hands-on learning involves understanding things while doing and experiencing them which as we know are the highest form of understanding. This can be done through simple activities and toys based on elementary scientific principles which closely simulate real-life scenarios, give enough scope for innovation and challenge and make learning science fun and exciting. Vocational education has always understood that if you want someone to learn to repair an automobile, you need an automobile to repair. If you want to teach someone to cook, you put him or her in a kitchen. Did anyone hear of teaching someone to swim in a traditional classroom? Likewise, we do believe we are learning that in order to truly teach science, we must â€Å"do† science. Hands-on learning means many different things to different people. It has become a slogan and is often used to describe any activities in classrooms that use materials. Hands-on learning, however, is not simply manipulating things. It is engaging in in-depth investigations with objects, materials, phenomena, and ideas and drawing meaning and understanding from those experiences. Other terms for this are inquiry learning, hands-on, and minds-on learning. Learning by well-planned activities and experiences in a well-engineered program is a quality instructional approach. It causes students to rely on the evidence instead of upon authority (encyclopedia, minister, doctor, text, teacher, parent). Most students live in an authoritarian world with little or no opportunity to practice decision-making because nearly everyone tells students what to do and when to do it. We continually graduate students, who do not yet have the ability to set up a simple experiment with controlled variables, collect and interpret evidence, or make correct interpretations based upon that evidence provides students with a similar set of experiences so everyone can participate in discussions on a level playing field regardless of their socio-economic status. In this way, special benefits are not awarded to those who, by virtue of their wealth or background, have a greater number of experiences under their belts forces student thinking by requiring interpretation of the observed events, rather than memorization of correct responses. Activity based learning method is adopted in vocational commerce education in +2 level Vocational Education Programme and developed curricula & instructional material. For development of vocational commerce curricula we invite the experts from professional institutions, university departments, vocational commerce teachers and industrial experts for preparing in activity based. In this curricula we not only provide the syllabus but also provide the activities like course introduction, job opportunities, job description, job analysis which includes knowledge, skills & personality traits, course objectives, scheme of studies & examination, on-the-job training site & syllabus, inputs for the course, agencies for procurement of inputs, suggested list of collaborating organizations, teaching staff and their qualifications, suggested list of reference books, career mobility, and list of experts involve for development of the curriculum. Simultaneously, we also developed activity based instructional material to involving the industrial experts. We also utilize the services of industrial experts for curricular transactions, skill/practical training, on-the-job training, apprenticeship training and evaluation of student’s performance and conducting campus interviews for placement of students. For implementing activity based learning in vocational commerce education the following activities are mainly adopted apart from the transaction of theory and practical activities: Service Learning Activities Service learning activity is a method of teaching whereby students learn and develop through active, unpaid, participation in organized academic and practical activities that are conducted in and designed to meet the needs of their communities. Service learning links activities to the school/college curriculum and provides students with a real-world context in which to apply their academic skills. Through service learning, students learn critical thinking, communication skills, teamwork, civic responsibility, mathematical reasoning, problem solving, public speaking, vocational skills, computer  skills, scientific method, research skills, and analysis. Service learning may take place in the school/college, the community at large, in non-profit community agencies, private businesses, or government agencies. This service is also a vehicle through which schools and colleges can teach the skills of democratic citizenship. By allowing students to venture out of the classroom to examine the world around them, and by providing them with opportunities to address the problems they see, service learning teaches young people that they have the power to change their communities and their world for the better. Equally important in any discussion regarding service learning is the connection of these types of activities to the academic programs experienced by all students. The following elements are essential to any service-learning program: †¢Integrated curricula wherein community service activities are a natural adjunct to classroom learning experiences. †¢Preparations whereby students identify and analyze a problem, select and plan a project, and receive training and orientation prior to the service. †¢Action, which is meaningful, appropriate for the ages and abilities of the students primarily, involved, is supervised, and provides for a feeling of ownership by the students during and at the conclusion of the project. †¢Reflection time consisting of structured discussions, readings, working on a project, etc. , all designed with the idea that students should be thinking critically and learning from their experiences as an individual or as a group. †¢Celebration of the achievements and accomplishments of the students to be shared with the students and the recipients of the services as well. Through service learning activities, students come into contact with decision makers in their communities (e. g. , business people, government officials, and other members of the community). Because of projects that address real needs, students must seek the assistance of community members and leaders, and the community is able to see its young people as problem solvers and full members of the community. The more students work in the community, and the more successes they experience, the more likely they are to continue to be involved after they leave schools and colleges. The following student service learning outcomes: Service Outcomes: †¢development of strong values and reasonable morals †¢a sense of personal worth and competence †¢positive self esteem †¢a willingness to explore new roles and interests †¢a willingness to take risks and an acceptance of fresh challenges †¢acceptance of the consequences of behavior †¢ability to take responsibility for problem solving †¢sense of the obligations of public life in a democratic republic Intellectual Development and Academic Outcomes: †¢increased basic academic skills such as reading, writing, calculating, speaking, and listening †¢enhanced ability for problem solving, reviewing choices, analytical criticism †¢learning-from-experience-skills, such as observation, questioning, knowledge †¢application, summarizing, testing and assessing results †¢motivation to learn and retain what has been learned. Social Growth and Development Outcomes: †¢concern for the welfare of others †¢social responsibility †¢political strategies †¢civic preparation †¢exploration of service-related career paths †¢sensitivity toward people from a wide range of backgrounds †¢development of character, judgment, insight, and sensitivity to underlying themes Internships/On-the-Job Training Activity Internship means unpaid work-based experiences where a student â€Å"samples† a particular industry or business for a period of time by working on a single project or a number of different projects. It defines â€Å"Internships† as highly structured workplace experiences taking place over a number of weeks during which a student completes a planned series of activities or a project(s) and achieves a set of learning objectives designed to give a broad understanding of a business or occupational area. On the Job Training (OJT) refers to that component of vocational curricula which takes place in a real job situation under the supervision of an expert in plant supervisor or master craftsman, aiming at the development of proficiency and self-confidence. On the Job Training (OJT) is an integral part of the vocational curricula, which enables the students to use theoretical knowledge in the real work situation. This helps the student to observe and understand the practical intricacies and make them well equipped, confident and motivated so that he will be able to take up any task with ease. As an initial step, it is proposed to train the students for 30 days in the concerned industrial firm during end of the academic year, which gives exposure to the latest technology, and equipment, which are not available in the schools and colleges. Thus the scheme will definitely improve the vocational skill, competency of the students and thereby the quality of Vocational Commerce Education. The on-the-job training provides the student a guarded exposure to the real world of work under the supervision of expert worker and teacher guide, before the individual fully/really enters the job on permanent basis as an employable worker. The research studies indicate that the on-the-job work experience makes a person suitable for taking up self-employment since this training develops motivation, self-confidence and proficiency in production. It is the only mode of instruction in vocational courses, which goes beyond the level of skill training and takes the persons into the domain of intricacies of the occupational field. The overall impact of on-the-job training is to train the student in the competency of work, to attain self-confidence and work habits and attitudes before these individuals enter the actual occupational field that is to prepare square pegs for the square holes. Internships/on-the-job training help students transcend from school/college  to the work place by offering â€Å"hands-on† learning in real work settings over a relatively long period of time. The experience is designed to give students a better sense of the jobs within a particular business or industry. Further, the internship provides students with information about all aspects of the business to aid them in understanding, through experience, how each part of a company aids the other in meeting the goals and objectives of a business or industry. Internships are designed to allow students to accomplish the following: †¢Apply basic skills to the workplace by observing the relationship between academic skills and knowledge and a particular job †¢Develop employability and problem-solving skills which can be transferred back to the classroom †¢Increase self-esteem by becoming a valuable and productive worker in an adult environment †¢Focus on a career interest through participating in an in-depth, day-to-day job experience †¢Recognize the connection between school/college and the workplace and how both are related and necessary to achieve personal and professional goals. Internships involve many more partners than just the participating students. At a minimum, the following individuals and organizations should be included in any internship program: †¢Students who will be working with a teacher and a business or a community organization as an intern †¢Parents/guardians who will be providing support to the student and/or soliciting cooperation from various businesses and industries in the community. †¢Educators who will be working with the students to define the internship activities; provide continuous instruction, advice and supervision; help the student integrate their workplace activities with the classroom; and, coordinate the logistics of the internship †¢Business and community organizations which will collaborate with the teacher and the student, provide opportunities for the students to complete their intern activities, instruct and evaluate the student and coordinate internship activities with the schools and colleges †¢Community partners (e. g., chamber of commerce, labor unions, service organizations, etc. ), which can provide internship, experiences for students and help to recruit other community organizations and businesses. As part of the internship/on-the-job experience, students will be expected to: †¢Discuss all assignments with both the teacher and the workplace supervisor. †¢Review and understand all of the performance criteria established for the internship assignment and understand what constitutes an acceptable level of performance. †¢Know the job site expectations, rules, culture, and the nature of the job to be performed. †¢Accept feedback and constructive criticism from the job supervisor. †¢Develop a regularly scheduled time for meetings with the job supervisor to review past performance and discuss future tasks and expectations. †¢Maintain communications with the teacher assigned to coordinate the internship program regarding both positive and negative feelings regarding the assignment. †¢Learn about the overall nature of the business or industry before the internship begins. †¢Become familiar with the specific work being done in the area assigned, the employees with whom you will be working, and the job tasks they perform. †¢Become knowledgeable about your particular assignment and how your tasks will fit into the overall operations of the business. †¢Determine the workplace expectations regarding dress and generally accepted business practices. †¢Know and understand the hours to be worked and the procedures to be followed if late or absent from the job. †¢Become knowledgeable with any machinery and the safety measures to be used when operating the equipment. †¢Learn the tasks to be completed and the person(s) other than the supervisor to whom one can turn to with questions or to help resolve problems. †¢Complete all forms, materials, and evaluation sheets required prior to and during the internship. School/College Based Enterprise/Production-cum Training Activities Small business is the lifeblood of our economy. Research, breakthrough thinking, idea generation, processes, and relationships are the elements entrepreneurs bring to the marketplace. Students need to learn and explore the challenges that are inherent in beginning a new business or maintaining an existing business. Entrepreneurs embody the marketing concepts in creating goods, services or ideas for consumers. Entrepreneurship begins with forming the attitudes and unique talents associated with that of a risk-taker. Entrepreneurship, entrepreneurial skills, and the economic role of citizens are all part of the study of business, industry, labor, and agricultural organizations and their role in a local, state, national and international economy. General knowledge of business operations and economics is not only critical to a student’s ability to get a job, it is important to job success and to the vitality of employing businesses. Agencies working with small business development say lack of appropriate management and marketing skills are the most common factors in small business failures during the first year of operation. For many entrepreneurs, business success depends on the skills they gain in school/college. Work-based learning and marketing education bring knowledge of business operations and economic systems into the general and the vocational commerce curricula. All students, regardless of future career aspirations, need an understanding of marketing, business, and economics. Students involved in a marketing, school/college-based enterprise activity have the responsibility to: †¢Design a career development plan to achieve personal, educational and career goals. †¢Use a variety of communication technologies to effectively communicate with associates, customers, employers and suppliers. †¢Explain the nature of risk management. †¢Explaining and comparing types of unit inventory control systems. †¢Describe and explain the types of economic systems, factors which affect pricing and determine pricing strategies. †¢Prepare policies and procedures for extending credit and evaluating credit risks. †¢Prepare a cash flow and profit/loss statements. †¢Determine the factors related to lease or purchase of a facility. †¢Develop an organizational plan. †¢Write job descriptions, personnel policies, and establish standards for job performance. †¢Develop a business plan and establish objectives for the business. †¢Describe the factors entering into the selection of a business location. †¢Analyze various types of business ownership. †¢Describe and interpret major guidelines provided by the Occupational Health and Safety Act. †¢Distinguish between business ethics and social responsibility. †¢Identify a manager’s role in customer relations. †¢Recognize problems and implement plans of action to bring about change. †¢Explain the relationship between span of control and delegation. †¢Describe the role of management and employees in the achievement of quality. †¢Describe the customer focus of total quality management. †¢Interpret market research to identify target marketing. †¢Estimate market share for a particular product or service. †¢Choose a marketing plan and project the outcomes of the plan. †¢Develop a promotional plan for a business. †¢Develop a promotional plan and preparing a promotional budget. †¢Develop a sales promotional plan. †¢Explain the key factors in building a clientele and developing effective buyer/seller relationships. †¢Design a sales training program. Establishing Business and Education Partnerships/Institute Industry Linkage Activities. It is well known that schools alone cannot provide students with all of the necessary academic and technical skills necessary for them to be successful. What is needed is the support and cooperation of the community at large and the business and industry sector in particular. Through the formation of business and education partnerships, teachers and employers can create learning opportunities, which will expose students to the skills, experiences and attitudes necessary in today’s work place environments. Not only do these associations provide a real world context where students can apply what they have learned in the classroom but they also provide significant rewards to the employer as well. Features In Developing Linkages †¢Identification of vocational opportunities. †¢Development of curricula and instructional material †¢Utilization of facility/infrastructure in industry for specific skills training, specialized skill training, on-the-job training and apprenticeship training. †¢Utilization of professionals and technicians for curricular transaction and skill training †¢Evaluation of student progress and certification. †¢Placement in Industries and business organizations The following are some of the benefits to the business and industry sector as a result of establishing a partnership with the schools/colleges: †¢Developing employee satisfaction from sharing time and talents with the students †¢Enhancing the business image in the community. †¢Creating the prospect of identifying and attracting better future employees †¢Favorable publicity for all partners †¢Creating the opportunity to influence the course of education †¢Improving morale of the students, teachers, administrators, and staff †¢Giving students a better understanding of the free enterprise system †¢Communicating the community at large and the business and industry sector in particular the school/college goals and the obstacles faced in meeting those goals. †¢Increasing school/college pride with placement of students †¢Improving school attendance, punctuality and academic achievement For developing a plan for business/education partnerships, it is necessary to survey the community. In conducting this recruiting research, the following questions should be considered: †¢What businesses and industries are located in the district? How large are they? †¢Are the businesses and industries local, statewide, national, or international corporations? †¢Do the organizations have public service programs and/or a public relations staff who would be interested in furthering a business and education partnership? †¢What businesses currently employ parents of students or family members of teachers in the school district? †¢To what extent does the business or industry offer goods and/or services, which would, are of benefit to the students’ education? †¢Who is the ultimate decision maker in the business or industry being recruited? The School’s/Colleges Role in Establishing Business and Education Partnerships The following are some of the steps a school or college should take when attempting to establish a collaborative relationship with business and industry: †¢Create awareness within the school/college community of the concepts and the development of business and education partnerships. †¢Develop a business and education partnership task force to explore various partnership opportunities. †¢Develop a partnership plan that reflects the needs of the school/college community and the capabilities/offerings of the business/industry sector. †¢Seek a commitment from the school/college board, school/college administration, teaching staff and the senior management staff of the business or industry. †¢Ensure that the goals and objectives of the partnership are clearly understood by all parties involved in the program. †¢Incorporate the partnership into the school’s/colleges activities to the maximum extent possible. †¢Develop an ongoing support system for the partnership. †¢Ensure that the partnership is curriculum focused. †¢Establish evaluation criteria and a recurring evaluation timetable for the partnership. †¢Publicize partnership activities throughout the community and highlight the positive results achieved through the cooperative arrangements. †¢Create partnerships in critical academic areas where normal business and industry interests may not be available. †¢Designate specific program coordinators at both the school/college and the business/industry sites. †¢Provide overall coordination for the maintenance and support of the partnerships. †¢Maintain flexibility regarding the needs of the school/college and the business or industry. †¢Ensure that the relationship between the school/college and the business partners is reciprocal. The Role of Business and Industry in the Partnership As a partner in the education program, the cooperating businesses and industries will have the responsibility to: †¢Provide role models and mentors. †¢Exemplify the benefits and advantages of an education. †¢Enhance a student’s self image. †¢Encourage regular school/college attendance and punctuality. †¢Share employment readiness information with the student, the coordinating teacher and the parent/guardian. †¢Serve as advisors on partnership task forces and curriculum development committees. †¢Encourage parental involvement in all phases of the business and education experience. †¢Initiate special projects to increase student involvement and experience. †¢Serve as resources for teachers regarding current workplace skills; business operations; technological and operational changes to the business resulting from market place demands; and keeping current with the trends in labor market information Business and education partnerships have a positive effect on and increase the effectiveness of school coordinated, student work programs. Moreover, by working together, these collaborations have been shown to be a critical component of any successful program, which has established working alliances between schools/colleges, local businesses and industries, and the community. Through these partnership agreements, each partner can share important information, build a mutual collection of resources, and clearly focus the programs on the students. While the majority of partnerships exist in urban and suburban areas, they are also being successfully implemented in rural communities. They reduce the isolation and expand the resource base of small schools by getting businesses more directly involved in the education of youth and the professional development of teachers through the sharing of expertise, resources, and experiences. Be it an urban or rural, the increased communication between business and schools helps students make a smoother transition from the classroom to the workplace. Communities and businesses receive the benefit of better prepared workers, while schools become more efficient at promoting career development and planning, preparing students for further education and citizenship, enhancing student self-esteem, and reducing dropout rates. Conclusions and Suggestions Commerce based vocational education is totally service and practical activity based education.

Apple Firm Strategy Analysis Essay

The firm I have chosen to analyze is Apple. Apple, officially called as Apple Inc. was founded on April 1, 1976 by Steve Jobs and Steven Wojniak. It was incorporated on January 3, 1977. (Mohta, 2010) Apple designs and manufactures consumer products such as computers, laptops, tablets, phones and music players and computer software products such as Mac OS Operation System and iTunes. Over the past few years, Apple has gained a large customer base and been able to dominate the market share. Strategic frameworks such as Porters five forces and Strategic focus will help us in analyzing how Apple has managed to sustain its profits over a long period of time. Porter’s five forces framework Threat of Competition When it comes to computers, tablets and music players, Apple dominates the market share by a huge margin. The gross profit for Apple in the year 2012 is $65.64 billion whereas the gross profit for HP and Dell is $27.64 billion and $13.06 billion respectively. (Sparks, 2012) HP was unable to compete with Apple in the tablet market that it has started to consider focusing only on the computer industry. In the smartphone market, Samsung has by far been the biggest competitor for Apple. Samsung has 29.1% of the market share in the smartphone market whereas Apple only has 24.2 % of the market share. (Reisinger, 2012) Threat of new entrants Considering the large customer base Apple has, threat of new entrants is quite low. The new entrants have neither been able to match up to the quality of the Apple products nor to the sales volume held by Apple. Hence, if Apple continues to design and manufacture innovative products, it will be extremely difficult for new entrants to be able to compete with Apple. Threat of Substitutes When it comes to Apple’s hardware products, there are no substitutes as such that could replace it. However, when it comes to Apple’s software products such as the iTunes, which is the music store designed and developed by Apple for the purpose of purchasing and downloading music, there is a high possibility that the customers could look out for alternative sources for music such as limewire, youtube.com. (Mohta, 2010) Power of buyers Apple has always focused on hardware and software integration of its products. Hence, Apple customers end up owning more than one Apple product. As a result of this, switching costs are extremely high. Also, due to the fact that large sales volumes are promised by Apple to the carrier networks such as AT&T and Verizon, iPhones are sold to the customers at a subsidised rate. This is an indication that the carriers have very less buying power. (Sparks, 2012) Power of suppliers Apple has an advantage over its suppliers as it outsources most of its manufacturing and has also started producing its own supplies. Consequently, it also gives Apple a huge competitive advantage. (Term paper warehouse) Strategic focus framework The three value disciplines that are taken up for analyzing a company are: Operational Excellence Apple as a company is highly efficient when it comes to operational excellence. All the departments in the organization starting from the sales forecasting department to the Distributions department are synchronised with each other leading to a highly efficient supply chain. Also, Apple has a limited product line. (Lariviere, 2011) Hence, it is able to provide its complete focus on designing and manufacturing those products rather than drifting away from the organizations objective to sustain profits with a large number of product lines. Customer intimacy â€Å"Apple targets people. It focuses on users. And it lets them decide how and where they will use its products.† (Asay, 2010) Apple has always been a customer focused company where its main aim is to deliver high quality products to its customers. Product Leadership Apple has managed to be a leader in its industry because of the fact it has been able to design innovative products. It has initiated changes to which its competitors had to respond. For example, Apple revolutionised the Smartphone market by introducing the iPhone. Except for Samsung, no other competitor of Apple has been able to come up with a strategy to deviate market focus from Apple. In addition, Apple has always on the lookout for new products to design and new markets to enter. This strategy has led to Apple being a leader in its industry. References Asay. M. (2010). Apple Doesn’t target Markets. It Targets People. GIGAOM. Retrieved from: http://gigaom.com/2010/08/26/apple-doesnt-target-markets-it-targets-people/ Bargaining Power of Suppliers. Term Paper Warehouse. Retrieved from: http://www.termpaperwarehouse.com/essay-on/Bargaining-Power-Of-Suppliers/84367 Lariviere. M. (2011). Operations: Apple’s Secret Sauce? The Kellogg Insight. Retrieved from: http://operationsroom.wordpress.com/2011/11/04/operations-apples-secret-sauce/ Mohta, J. (2010). Poter’s 5 forces model case Apple Inc. Slideshare. Retrieved from: http://www.slideshare.net/jontymohta444/porters-5-forces-model-case-apple-inc Reisinger, D. (2012). Samsung Pulling away from Apple in smartphone market. CNET. Retrieved from: http://news.cnet.com/8301-1035_3-57424779-94/samsung-pulling-away-from-apple-in-smartphone-market/ Sparks, D. (2012). Competing with Apple is No Fun. The Motley Fool. Retrieved from: http://beta.fool.com/danielsparks/2012/09/03/apple-2012-50-growth/10776/ Spartanski. (2009). Case Study Apple Inc. Slideshare. Retrieved from: http://www.slideshare.net/Spartanski/case-study-apple-inc-2008

Class Difference Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Class Difference - Essay Example Social classes in most parts of the world are categorized on the basis of material wealth and political power and influence. People in different social classes are characterized by various defining factors that serve as the key identifying characteristics of that class. The higher a social class occupied by an individual in society, the better their living conditions and life compared to other lower social classes in society. Through the ages, different individuals have used literature to portray the differences that exist in social classes across various cultural and traditional contexts. The use of literature to highlight and discuss class differences in various contexts of society is seen as an elaborate way of creating awareness about these aspects. Literature is a tool that surpasses and permeates across gender, cultural and traditional barriers that are set up by society and it can be used to convey vital messages. Through the various readings in class, there have been illustra tions from books that touch on class differences and their characteristics, influences and impacts on society. This paper seeks to discuss class differences as portrayed and depicted by various authors, the context in which these class differences are used in the books. Garcia Marquez’s short story titled A Very Old Man with Enormous Wings tells of a family’s encounter with a strange-looking man with wings on his back. This man was discovered washed up on the shores of the ocean by Pelayo and Elisenda’s children. This family took the man in and gave him shelter in a chicken coop where he recuperates from his injuries and illness. There are various notions of social class in this short story as portrayed by the positions and opinions taken by different characters in the story. According to the tone and tune of the story, it is apparent that the community is largely composed of peasant fishermen and women. This can be attributed to the observed industrious nature and ability to turn misfortunes into fruitful and productive ventures that serve to alleviate their position and class in society. The characters’ industrious nature that is seen in their efforts to make money is a translation of people’s awareness in the importance of wealth and money in order to change their class status. The Pelayo family saw a money making opportunity with the old man with enormous wings, and they started charging 5 cents to anyone who wanted to see the old man. This saw them amass a large amount of money enough for them to build a mansion with nets, gardens and balconies. The same is seen when a woman who is said to have disobeyed her parents turns into a tarantula spider and goes by the name spider woman. In the case of the spider woman, people who want to hear her story have to toss meatballs at the Spiderwoman (Williams 53). Meatballs were her only forms of nourishment thus she opted to take advantage of people’s curiosity to earn a mean s of survival. Social classes are portrayed to be constructed notions that can be attained as illustrated by the industrious efforts of characters in the abovementioned short story. People recognize the elemental importance of money or wealth in creating favorable conditions for an ideal class. Father Gonzaga can be construed to have held a higher social class that most of the citizens in the mentioned community in the short story. This gives insight into the intricacies involved in the construction of social classes because in this case, father Gonzaga’

Bowdoin College and the Point of Education Essay

Bowdoin College and the Point of Education - Essay Example Bowdoin College's commitment to the common good is expressed in its mission, on the Academics – Common Good page: â€Å"A commitment to the common good isn’t just about giving back. It’s about looking forward and connecting who you are and what you can do to a greater purpose. We all want to live in a better world, but it’s not always clear where to start†. The common good is what inspired me to choose Bowdoin College to attend. In my opinion, the academy has to justify its existence, it's funding. People are putting in their hard-earned money, through taxes, donations, grants and tuition, to subsidize this institution. It is true that expanding the boundaries of human knowledge is a worthy endeavour. But so are many other things that people could spend their money on. Bowdoin College distinguishes itself by giving back to the community. I am interested in the Bowdoin College community outreach programs. Not only are these programs excellent for the college to build its connection to the communities that it resides in, but this is also a great way to apply my skills immediately. I will learn how to interact with the community, with leaders, and get real-world experience while still in college! What a wonderful career builder, and a great way to build the contacts essential for my ongoing professional success. Bowdoin College recognizes that the point of education is to give back to our communities, and I am proud to consider this institution for that reason.

Buddha and the Buddhism based on the Journey to the West by Wu Chengen Research Paper

Buddha and the Buddhism based on the Journey to the West by Wu Chengen - Research Paper Example The reward is that they get admitted back to heaven. This description is in tandem with Christian principles of faith (Miller, 2006). Another depiction of Christianity is from the monkey king who eats the holy peaches. Like forbidden fruits portrayed in the bible, the monkey king eats these fruits reserved for special guest to heaven. He gets enlightened and for his acts, he is kicked out of the Heavenly Garden. A symbolic representation of what unfolded in the Garden of Eden (Miller, 2006). In the novel, Taoist heaven, found in China, coexist with Buddhist western paradise, implied in the novel as a location in India. Taoist gods like the Jade Emperor and Buddhist venerable like Buddha even consult and help one another. When the Jade Emperor becomes overwhelmed by the monkey king’s antics, he presents his lamentations to Buddha who subdues the monkey (Wilkinson and Teague, 2003). The Journey to the West relays a simplified and literalized ascetic Taoism in the Chinese popular origin. Taoist ascetics for instance consider that the final stage of discipline is to attain immortality (Fowler and Fowler, 2008). Since most Chinese were confused about elements of Taoism, this was simplified by popular legend as presented in the novel. As the monkey goes to see Taoist god, he steals pills from Taoist alchemy laboratory. The pills are to prolong life of a human being by a few thousand years (Kherdian and Wu, 1992). This becomes a simplified explanation of ascetics that is easily discernable by the Chinese. The gods of the different religions presented in the novel differ in hierarchies and roles. For instance, Jade Emperor is depicted as the ruler of Earth and Heavens, though he is not as supreme as Confucius, Buddha and Lao Tzu administratively. These gods are also subject to much superior universal forces. The folk heaven which the novel mainly draws from Taoist mythology is a model of the government of Chinese emperors (Flanagan, 2011). The Chinese folk heaven is therefore conveyed as bloated bureaucracy with numerous officials holding grandiose titles. This scenario is underscored by the rewards Xuanzang disciples receive after delivering the sutras. It is also worthy to note that these heavenly administrators are mortals whose virtues in their earthly lives got them their current positions (Cuevas and Stone, 2007). The different religions in Journey to the West find a striking balance and try to accommodate one another (Buswell, 1990). They are not into direct competition with one another. Buddha helps Jade Emperor when he is besieged by the monkey king, whereas Bodhisattva Kwan Yin plays an important role in the novel by helping the pilgrims when on very difficult situations. Although the disciples are promoted to heaven, Xuanzang remains on earth to translate the sutras.

Moral, ethical and legal issue surrounding cell phones Research Paper

Moral, ethical and legal issue surrounding cell phones - Research Paper Example Recent researches have shown that cell phones have given rise to many ethical problems related to exchange of adult material resulting in sexting, child and adult pornography. In addition to that, there are also studies supporting the notion that cell phones usage has serious consequences during driving. Many countries and states have devised several laws which prohibit exchange of nude/ semi-naked material and use of cell phone for bullying, harassment, and cell phone use’ during driving however a policy model is required which would keep ensure the use of cell phone for unethical activities. With the use of cell phones comes moral responsibility of information rights, property rights and obligations, accountability and control, system quality and quality of life. Due to excessive use of cell phones, one of the fundamental moral comprises arise from invasion of privacy. It is a right of every individual to be free from surveillance or interference from individuals, organizations and state and have complete control over information regarding him. In U.S., individual privacy is protected by various laws such as First Amendment (freedom of speech), Fourth Amendment (unreasonable search and seizure), Additional federal statues (e.g. Privacy Act of 1974) etc (Lauden & Traver, 2012). There is an extensive research performed on cell phones and ethical issues arising out of it. Other than breach of privacy, forced intimacy, inane conversations, inappropriate timings of usage, and disregard for immediate others are some of the major issues considered as violation of etiquettes (J ohnson, 2003). Other than the basic ethical dilemmas mentioned above, another area which requires immediate attention is the use of cell phones for the purpose of exchanging pornography, sexting, sex-oriented tele-conversation and adult pornography. Most of ethical issues

Does Negative Attack Campaigns have an impact on US Presidential Research Paper

Does Negative Attack Campaigns have an impact on US Presidential Elections - Research Paper Example kinds of negative advertisement, and stands to reason that these different kinds of negative ads will have different effects on the people who view them. Some negative ads simply state that there are policy differences between the two candidates, so these are more compare and contrast. Others are scurrilous attacks – they might be lies, or irrelevant, or both. The types of ads out of the first category will have different effects than the types of ads from the second category, and the research bears this out. However, the research does not necessarily state whether the policy difference ads increases turnout for one candidate or another – the research simply states that these ads increase turnout overall. Moreover, the research indicates that scurrilous or irrelevant attack ads – the kind that do not advance the debate – depresses turnout overall. This study will attempt to discern if the policy type negative ads increases turnout for one candidate over an other, and how these ads makes the electorate view each candidate. This study will also seek to find out if the more scurrilous, mud-slinging type ads depresses turnout, and how these ads make the electorate see candidates. Finally, this study will seek to discover how the public perceives ads which might either be seen as advancing the debate, or scurrilous or irrelevant, and will seek to find out how the public views these ads, how they categorize them, and why. Mark (2006) states that negative campaigns very often depend upon television advertising. However, the negative campaigns are not restricted to television advertisements, stating that the negativity often pervades every aspect of the candidate’s messaging, including candidates’ speeches, debates, press statement and talk show appearances. The Internet also plays a large part in negative campaigning, as Stokes (2006) notes. Specifically, Stokes (2006) points to a smear campaign against Teresa Heinz-Kerry, who is the wife of Senator John

Auditing Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3750 words

Auditing - Case Study Example The authorization of gambling is not an issue for a number of states in the US but the major issue is in the form of developing quality audit programs to measure and analyze the operations of the casinos in a systematic manner (Arens, 2012). A number of states in the US have stated the fact that gambling and especially casinos promote economic development. Nevada’s statute declares that gaming industry is vital for the state development and general welfare of people while New Jersey’s statute states that casinos promotes tourism, resort, and recreational activities leading to the creation of economic value in the long run. There is no doubt that several states in the US have promoted casinos in a legal manner but the obvious question surrounding the operations of casinos is in the form of use of auditing tools in order to assess and analyze the overall success factors associated with it. In order to do so, the major purpose of the discussion is to analyze the usefulness of auditing in the context of analyzing the case study of Sands Hotel and Casino. This will help in understanding the relevance and importance of auditing in making business operations fair and transparent. Auditing refers to a systematic review and examination of books, accounts, journals, documents, and vouchers of organizations to analyze and assess the validity and reliability of financial statements in terms of absolute trueness and fairness. Additionally, auditing is considered as an independent examination of data, statements, records, and performance of organizations. Auditing is a complex process requiring high degree of honesty and understanding of the financial statements. An auditor is required to analyze and assess the evidences along with evaluating the same on the basis of the skilled judgment. Additionally, an auditor needs to offer clear and true verdict of his findings through a systematic report

Tango Music Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Tango Music - Essay Example And that, of course, was my mistake. He wasn't dancing the rhythm of the music. He was dancing the phrase." The Tango is Argentina's cultural and national contribution to the European world. It has come to show the soul and personality of Latin style. The music emphasizes themes of passion and desire, despair and loneliness, jealousy, and its spiritual and emotional dance moves are memorable for their pictures of intertwined limbs and Latin machismo. There are differing points of view on the origins of the word tango but all researchers agree that it was used in America to help gathering of the black population for social aims. Jorge Novati in "Antologia del Tango Rioplatense" carries these meetings to the late 18th century in Buenos Aires. Alejo Carpentier in "La Musica en Cuba" says that the tango was in Cuba also. Around 1880, in the gambling houses and bars, lonely men spent time drinking, socializing, gambling, and looking for a little romance in the company of women of bad repute, trying to step to the music. This gave rise to the new dance, tango. This proximity of the bodies in public was considered to be impossible and scandalous. The black population in America used and adapted European forms for their entertainment, tradition and rituals. That is why the music and choreographic was transformed by the addition of rhythms and some other elements which were typical for African culture music and dance. One of the most influential genres in the rise and finding its individuality of the early tango was the Cuban habanera. Using the materials of historian and writer Alejo Carpentier, the habanera developed in Cuba from the mixture of African rhythmic influences and the French contredanse. The habanera became a real sensation and was transported back into Spain, where it was known as tango Americano. The habanera came to Buenos Aires in the late 19th century and became very popular there. Musicologist Jorge Novati, who continued the work of Carlos Vega, tells us, that the habanera had two versions: very popular and lascivious and another, more decent, which existed in late 19th century Buenos Aires. The popular version was danced by the African-American population at their gatherings, called tangos. The more acceptable version, meanwhile, was danced in the salons. By the last decades of the 19th century, a distinct dance form of dance was developed, which gathered the inventions of the Afro-Argentines: the corte and quebrada. The corte refers to a sudden stop in the general walk of the dance. During this stop the dancers would show different figures that added to a new vocabulary of dance. The quebrada was an undulation of the hips, and gave erotic character to the dance. It became so popular that it start to influence musicians, they start to incorporate different rhythmic variations into their own music. The music they played was a mix of European popular dance forms, such as the mazurka and schottische, habaneras, and milongas. According to Novati, the milonga had a short but productive existence in Buenos Aires, and is the ancestor of the early tango (tango criollo). It was really a rural poetic form but in the later version it resembled the rhythmic patterns of the habanera and became the main part in the birth of Argentine Tango. Musicians started gathering their repertoire and the first composers of Spanish-tinged tango-milonga and gaucho-influenced

Companies and the education Essay Example for Free

Companies and the education Essay It is no denying the fact that globalization is evil, in the real sense of the word, for countries like India, Pakistan and many other developing countries. Globalization is good among the developed countries- like America, Canada, Europe etc. because here the competition is on equal terms. Globalization is also fair among the developing countries, like India, Pakistan etc. But it cannot be said that globalization or competition is fair and on equal terms between developed countries on the one hand and the developing countries on the other hand. It does not make sense that Pakistan will be able to compete on equal level with America. The outcome of this competition can be forecasted easily i. e. all the benefits will definitely go in the pockets of the multinationals of the developed world and the developing ones will suffer greatly in this bargain. It can be said that globalization is a modern method of enslaving the third world countries. In the name of globalization the Western world is dictating the developing countries to open their markets and reduce expenses on social causes, the likes of education and health, while on the other hand the developed countries themselves are subsidizing their farmers, multinational companies and the education. This kind of globalization does not make any sense. But yes it can be called as Westernization. Globalization is the modern face of colonization. In globalization the poor and developing countries are to provide cheap raw materials for the developed world in return for expensive manufactured goods. Thus the developing countries will never be able to produce goods as cheap goods as the all-pervasive multinationals will be producing. They will just provide cheap labor. The supporters of globalization say that globalization has actually decreased the global poverty. They say that no doubt most countries have seen lower income growth but the world’s two largest countries china and India have experienced the opposite. They also say that it is only those countries that increasingly integrate them with the world economy that have managed to grow fastest and reduce poverty the most. Thus it is suggested by them that only those countries who open themselves very much to the world can be benefited in this bargain. Now let us check these arguments of the supporters of the globalization. â€Å"Economists agonize about capital flows but often overlooks the social disruptions, cultural clashes and political changes that globalization brings. † (Mott. 2004. p. 33) It is no doubt that exports and foreign investment played integral role in China’s development. China is able to buy the capital equipments and the other modern tools for its modernization by selling its home-made products in the length and breathe of the world. The managerial and technical expertise of china is also increased by the increase in foreign investment. Now take a close look and we discover that china’s economic policies violated almost all the rules and regulations according to which the supporters of globalization want to play their game. China joined the World Trade Organization only a year or two back and they also did not liberalize their trade policies to a great extent. Their economic policies are the most protected policies in the world. China opens its financial markets to the world just a little time back. Chinese know that the solutions to their problems must be the one suitable to the local conditions. Thus they developed and progress immensely not by following the hard and fast rules of globalization but by will, dedication and nicely built policies suitable to the local environment. On the other hand many countries that open themselves up to the world without taking care of the local demands and conditions suffer financially and functionally. For example, Latin America followed the principles of globalization with great zeal and gusto in the 1990sis suffering from increasing inequality, low economic growth rates, and heightened.

Window Dressing Of Financial Account Is Fraudulent Accounting Essay

Window Dressing Of Financial Account Is Fraudulent Accounting Essay According to Wikipedia Online accounting is the art of communicating financial information about a business entity to users such as shareholders and managers. The Law of commerce states that business organisation must objectively record the accounts of the business organisation. These laws also state accounts must be clear and represent a fair and true record of the financial affairs of a business; these laws also put in place regulations on distinct ways in which a business organisation can present their accounts. Corporate management have some discretion in influencing the occurrence, measurement and reporting of these items .In contrast legal means can be adopted by business organisations in order to manipulate their accounts as to paint a different financial picture.  Ã‚  This can simply be referred as window dressing.   According to Your Dictionary window dressing is an adjustment made to a portfolio or financial statement to create a more positive appearance than is actually the case. For example, a manager may decide to provide window dressing to a portfolio by selling stock that has declined in value and replacing it with stock that has increased in value. By doing this the manager creates the impression of a successful portfolio management. In short, WD is a financial statement manipulation or window dressing where frauds are camouflaged by overstating the income or understating the expenses or understating liabilities and overstating assets. Tutor2u see window dressing as a form of accounting involving the manipulation of figures to flatter the financial the financial position of the business. The focus of window dressing: Liquidity hiding a deteriorating liquidity position Profitability massaging profit figures The Importance of Window Dressing To get praise from share holders and potential share holders the account book must be properly percentaed and make good to the general public as observed in the case A.B.B (Asia, Bovia and Brown) Incorporated US this construction firm along side with enron presented to the general public for ten years a positive account balance even though they were in red and their shares and stock were the toast of the US before the bubble. Similarly, window dressing is important to enable the firm to raise present and future capital from the stock market given their positive account balance as in the case of Intercontential bank and oceanic bank respectively in Nigeria who were rated AA+ by international credit rating companies where as they were in the woods. Window dressing is similar to asymmetric information in which a party has better information than the other. To sell a hailing company it must be window dressed otherwise no prospective buyer will come. Also to avoid tax payment a firm may present a poor financial return or position to the general public to technically evade payments of tax. This is achieved by distotinting the balance sheet of the firm. Advantages of Window Dressing The advantages of window dressing is similar to the importance of window dressing in the sense that the firm is able to achieve what its aiming to achieve without running fowl of the law. The penalty for window dressing is mild except where it is not properly done as in the case of Enron where the owner was jailed for more than 36 years even though Enron has achieved what it wanted to achieve. Furthermore it cost less to window dress than taking a loan for business expansion simply because it involves with internal running of the firm. Disadvantages of Window Dressing Examples of window dressing in Indian Companies: 1. Tata Motors transferred 24% stake in Tata Automotive Components (TACO), a company with revenue of $675 in FY07, to Tata Capital, a group company, and booked a profit of Rs 110 crore in Q1 FY09. Management declined to disclose the valuation methodology. Tata Motors also changed its methodology for calculating provisions for doubtful receivables, which resulted in higher reported Ebitda to the extent of Rs 50.7 crore (10% of Ebitda). 2. TCS, the software major, increased its depreciation policy on computers from two years to four years. As a result, Q1 FY09 PBT was higher by an estimated Rs 50 crore (4% of net profit in 1QFY09). TCS followed cash-flow hedge accounting and till FY08, it used to recognise hedging gains on effective hedges in its revenue line, thus boosting the reported revenue growth and Ebit margin. In FY08, TCS had Rs 421crore from hedging gains, of which, Rs 137 crore was included in the revenue line. However, from Q1 FY09, TCS is expected to report all forex losses/gains below the Ebit line in other income. Thus, the losses it had on its hedge position will no longer be booked in the operating line. 3. Jet Airways, changed its depreciation policy from WDV to SLM, and thereby wrote back Rs 920 crore into its PL, which helped the company to report profits during the quarter. It also helped Jet to report a higher net worth, which will help in keeping reported gearing low. 4. Dr Reddys adjusted mark to market losses (Q1 FY08) on outstanding $250 million of hedges in the balance sheet, while PL reflects forex gains realised. 5. Reliance Communications adjusted short-term quarterly fluctuations in foreign exchange rates related to liabilities and borrowings to the carrying cost of fixed assets. The company adjusted Rs 109 crore of realised and Rs 955 crore of unrealised forex losses in the above manner. In addition, the company has not recognised Rs 399 crore of translation losses on FCCBs, since the FCCBs can potentially get converted, although the FCCBs are out of money. Adjusted for all the above, the company would have virtually no profits in Q1 FY09. Bibliography and Reference Stimpson P. (2002), AS and A level Business Studies. Cambridge University press Dave.H, Jones.R .C, Andertain. A, (1993) Business Studies (fourth edition). Pearson Education Edinburgh .

John Steinbecks The Grapes of Wrath :: essays research papers

John Steinbeck’s The Grapes of Wrath serves as a milestone in the plethora of literature addressing the lives, adversities and perseverance of those affected by the American Great Depression of the 1920s and 1930s. However, the responses generated by the book vary greatly. Some have hailed it as one of the great American masterpieces, flaws included, whilst others describe it as a â€Å"so-so† book fraught with distorted, dramatised history and propaganda. The question that persists sixty-six years after the publication of the novel, and sixty-five years after the dà ©but of John Ford’s black and white drama, is can this work serve as reliable history and enduring literature? The novel was always intended to be a literal account of the hardships of the migrating â€Å"Okies†, yet as Keith Windschuttle eloquently dissects in his article Steinbeck’s Myth of the Okies, the historical distortions of the narrative, regardless of the author’s int ention, abound. Before assessing the historical merit of such a work it is important to systematically debunk the gross inaccuracies of the text. When assessing the historical writing of narrative, especially fictitious writing that presents itself as history, it is important to take into account the inherent subjective nature of a narrative. When creating any account of history it is unavoidable that the writer of fiction (or even brute fact) will select and combine sources he designates as relevant in order to aid the overall meaning-making process of the text. Thus, Steinbeck’s attempt to generate dramatised myth around the history of depression and in particular the Okies, is only a function of the narrative intended to â€Å"capture† the reader. For example, in response to Keith Windschuttle’s article some readers of the New Criterion have been quoted; â€Å"†¦the greatness of The Grapes of Wrath, Steinbeck’s masterpiece and one of the great American novels, should not be minimized, and I believe Mr. Windshuttle was wrong to do so. It is a story of the bravery and perseverance of three-dimensional human beings who come to life on the novel’s pages. The Grapes of Wrath is not a mere recounting of history, demography, or geography.† -Grey Satterfield , Oklahoma City However, one cannot deny that the text is grossly distorted and propagandist at points. For example, the dust storms spoken of repeatedly in the novel would not have affected many of the regions described , such as the area inhabited by the Joads, Salisaw Oklahoma.

Improving Society Through Individuals Essay -- essays research papers

Improving Society Through Individuals Starting in the late seventeen hundreds and continuing into the nineteenth century, England underwent a period of industrialization and urbanization, referred to as the Industrial Revolution. During this time, life became more difficult for a large majority of the citizens and hardships began to pile one on top of another. In the book Hard Times, by Charles Dickens, the lives and relationships of a range of people from this time are illustrated in order to demonstrate the nature of this society. Dickens uses the fictitious characters in Hard Times as examples of the varying degrees of inequality and misfortune, as well as the personifications of different schools of thought during the nineteenth century in England. Dickens uses this novel as an opportunity to expose many injustices in British society with which he seems to disagree. He criticizes the social structure by manipulating the lives of the characters in a way that reveals their flaws as a class while also indirectly relating his opinions on certain aspects of society. First of all, he uses Mr. Gradgrind’s model school as a way of mocking some elements of enlightened thought. He starts the book by describing Mr. Gradgrind as an â€Å"eminently practical father† who uses his own exceptional system of nothing but â€Å"Fact, fact, fact† to raise and educate the children of his school (Dickens, 16,20). The teacher’s name itself—Mr. McChoakumchild—is a means to ridicule the strict focus on ...

Home Schooling Provides Parents More Control :: Exploratory Essays Research Papers

Home Schooling Provides Parents More Control For most students, school begins with the first bell of the day and ends with the last, but for 228 pupils in the Smallville school district and roughly 1.5 million nationwide, the structure of a typical school day is anything but typical. These are home-schooled students, and their reasons for dropping out of standard educational systems are almost as varied as the hours which they keep. While some families want more time together, others focus on the special needs of children, and still others hope to instill values that they feel are not addressed in public or even private schools. Nearly all seek more control over the education of their children. "With home schooling, you can take your child's learning style and develop curriculum that fits how your child learns best. You're not trying to put a square peg in a round hole," said Sheri Cramer, whose ninth-grade son Jordan recently left public schooling to enroll under a new part-time policy adopted by the Lakota Board of Education last August. Under the policy, home-schooled students can enroll in up to two classes in the district each year and take part in extracurricular activities while maintaining their home-schooled status. "Through the policy, Jordan gets the best of both worlds †¹ he can still take part in school activities, but can work at his own pace and get individual attention also," says Cramer. It is this individualization that draws families to home schooling. "Because of the direct one-on-one interaction, you can tell if material is too boring or too difficult for your child and can make adjustments to that," says West Chester CHEC(Christian Home Education of Cincinnati) support group leader Susan Schechter, who has home schooled her two children for eight years. "I've always felt that I was able to do with home schooling what most teachers would like to do if they had the time and money." While expenses are not always a problem for home schoolers, they receive no financial aid from the government, and come from mostly single-paycheck families so that one parent can teach at home. "The idea is for parents to participate and share the skills they have with others so that we (home schooling families) don't have to hire as many teachers," says Schechter. For the majority of home schoolers, the primary teacher is the parent, though many are involved in home-schooling co-ops for special classes or hire private tutors for difficult subjects.

Objectives and Measurement

The main goals that hard core will be aimed at achieving for a period of one year are:-1. To improve the health statues of people by serving a minimum of 50customers per day.   The main objective of hard core is to improve the health status of the people.   For the start a minimum of 50 customers will be served within one day.   People will be advices on the diets to take so that their health status improves.   Teachings on maintaining the required weight shall also be offered.Our customers shall be taught on the kind of lifestyle to lead in order to keep their bodies strong and free from preventable diseases.   Also our customers shall be educated on the kind of exercised to carry out regularly so as to maintain their bodies and remain strong.   Also educate our customer about nutrition values of various foods.   We shall ensure that a minimum of 50 customers have been served per day.2. To ensure 99% efficiency in offering quality services.   We shall ensure that any service offered by hard core is within the best standards.   Health issues are very crucial and sensitive to somebody’s life.   A small mistake can lead to the death or deterioration of the health of a customer.   Therefore we look forward to offering the best services to our customers.3. To buy 30 equipments by the end of the year for the start hardcore shall be having the basic equipments for weight measurements, skin treatment, and body massage to ensure a smooth running during the start.   But as time will go by hardcore targets at buying 30 equipments for offering our trainings.4.To reduce the cost of services by 10% compared to our competitors for hardcore to expand and have more customers it will be charging lower prices to all the services it will be offering our prices will be lower by 10% compared to those charged by our competitors.5. To build one big recreational hall for practicing by the year 2009.   Hardcore has got many professionals like nutritioni st, dietitians, naturopathic doctors, dermatologist, the rapist, personal trainers, fitness instructors, physical therapist and psychiatrist.   Each and everyone of this professional require his own room. This room should be enough and spacious to accommodate at least four people and some equipments.   So for hardcore to be efficient in offering all its services a recreational hall should be build by the year 2009.6. To buy at least five televisions sets for our customers to be watching while waiting to be served by the end of year 2008.   Hardcore should buy at least five televisions that will be installed at the halls to keep customers busy as they wait to be served.   These television sets should also be used to offer basic teaching to customers to issues like diets, nutrition, prevention of diseases, the importance of maintaining health bodies.   Therefore these televisions will assist offering some basic teachings to our customers.7. To increase our monthly sales by 1 0% by the year 2009/ hardcore will have its own retail shop.   This shop will be selling equipments for homes, clothing, other supplements and nutritional valued light foods and drinks to compliment the services it offers.   Hardcore will target at increasing its monthly sales by 10% as from the year 2009.8. To own our own  ½ acre piece of land by the year 2009. For hardcore to offer its services efficiently it need to won  ½ on acre piece of land by 2009.10. To have a well trained team of 90 professionals within the first 6 months of starting.   Hardcore should have at least 90 well trained professionals like nutritionists, dietitians, naturopathic doctors, dermatologist, therapist and many more others.   These professionals are the once to ensure that hard core is fulfilling its main mission of improving the health status of its customers.Performance MeasurementPerformance measurement is vital in all organizations because the organizations need to verify the validity o f the selection methods; they also need to do performance measurement in order to improve productivity of the organization.As much as this may seem an important and key aspect of management, still it has a lot more difficulties associated with it. Some of the main factors that may make performance measurement to be more challenging are the measurement problems that make it impossible the supervisors (those in charge of the performance measurement) to tell the juniors or subordinates that they are below the average standards.How should the organization deal with such situations? In order for organizations to do performance measurement well, then they should carefully study the job, systematically and scientifically, in order to determine the nature and characteristics of the job, knowledge, skills and experience required for the successful performance of the job.They should collect all the vital information related to the job. They should then look at the specific individual tasks th at comprise the job and qualifications necessary to do the job. This is called job analysis that involves determining the content of the job in terms of what the worker is expected to do, methods and techniques used, and lastly, the conditions and skills required for the job.For proper job measurement, the management must adopt the following process and the methods of job measurements that follow:Management should identify and isolate the component tasks of the job. They should examine when, why and the tasks are done. Find out the duties and responsibilities involved in the job. Identify the working conditions involved in the job. Determine the demands which the job has on the job holder. Know the job relationships. After gathering all these, management can now use the methods of job measurement to know whether the job is being done s it is supposed to be done. The various methods of job measurement include:Performance ratingCritical incidentMBOPerformance RatingUnder performance r ating values such as creativity, initiative, dependability, knowledge etc assigned to the job and the rating is presented on a scale like this and questions are asked.To what extent does this person demonstrate creativity and then the scores given for the question give the rating of the employee.This method has a number of problems like:a) Managers may be inclined to give everyone a high rating and hence failure to differentiate them.b) Managers may tend to be influenced by most recent performance rather than general performance.Critical IncidentGood and bad performance incidents are recorded at the end of the period. The more the good performance incidents the better the employee. The major problem is that this type of job measurement is comparative and qualitative and cannot determine the actual performance on the job.MBOHere the performance of the job is rated as per the objectives set at the begging of the period i.e. sales targets set as 15% and then the sale representative get s 15%, he will get a positive sales performance order and vice versa.For this method of appraisal to be effective there must be a clear understanding between the employer and the employee at the point of setting the objectives. The authority and recourses necessary to achieve the objectives must be delegated to the managers.ReferencesLnick F. John and WillinLee Ziegler, sales promotion and modern Merchandising, McGraw Hill.

The Stupidest Angel Chapter 18

Chapter 18 YOUR PUNY WORM GOD WEAPONS ARE USELESS AGAINST MY SUPERIOR CHRISTMAS KUNG FU Molly slipped out the back door of the cabin and around the outside wall until she could see the tall figure standing before her picture window. The fallen wires had stopped sparking out by the street and the stars and moon barely cut through the darkness at all. Strangely enough, she could clearly see the man by her front window because there was a faint glow shining around him. Radioactive, Molly thought. He wore the long black duster favored by sand pirates. Why, though, would a desert marauder be out in a rainstorm? She assumed the Hasso No Kamae stance, back straight, the sword held high and tilted back over her right shoulder, the sword guard at mouth level, her left foot forward. She was three steps from delivering a deathblow to the intruder. The sword balanced perfectly in her grip, so perfectly that it seemed to weigh nothing at all. She could feel the wet pine needles under her bare feet and wished that she'd put on shoes before dashing out into the night. The cold rain against her bare skin made her think that maybe a sweater would have been a good idea as well. The glowing man looked toward the opposite corner of the cabin and Molly made her move. Three soft steps and she stood behind him; the edge of her blade lay across the side of his neck. A quick pull and she would cut him to his vertebrae. â€Å"Move and die,† Molly said. â€Å"Nuh-uh,† said the glowing man. The tip of Molly's sword extended a foot beyond the stranger's face. He looked at the blade. â€Å"I like your sword. Want to see mine?† â€Å"You move, you die,† Molly said, thinking that it wasn't the sort of thing you should have to repeat. â€Å"Who are you?† â€Å"I'm Raziel,† said Raziel. â€Å"It's not the sword of the Lord, or anything. Not for destroying cities, just for fighting one or two enemies at a time, or slicing cold cuts. Do you like salami?† Molly didn't quite know how to proceed. This glowing sand pirate seemed perfectly unafraid, perfectly unconcerned, in fact, that she was holding a razor-sharp blade against his carotid artery. â€Å"Why are you looking in my window in the middle of the night?† â€Å"Because I can't see through the wooden part.† Molly snapped her wrists back and smacked Raziel in the side of the head with the flat of her blade. â€Å"Ouch.† â€Å"Who are you and why are you here?† Molly said. She snapped her blade back to threaten another smack, and in that instant Raziel stepped away from her, spun, and drew a sword from the middle of his back. Molly hesitated, just a second, then approached and snapped her blade down, this time in a real attack aimed at his shoulder. Raziel parried the blow and riposted. Molly swept his blade aside and came around with her blade for a cut to the left arm. Raziel got his sword around just in time to deflect her blade down his arm instead of across it. The razor-sharp tashi took a long swath of fabric from his coat, as well as a thin slice of flesh down his forearm. â€Å"Hey,† he said, looking at his now-flapping sleeve. There was no blood. Just a dark stripe where the flesh was gone. He started hacking, his sword describing an infinity pattern in the air before him as he drove Molly back through the pine forest toward the road. She quickstepped back, parrying some blows, dodging others, stepping around trees, kicking up wet pine straw as she moved. She could only see her glowing attacker, his sword shining now as well, the darkness around her so complete that she moved only by memory and feel. As she deflected one of the blows, her heel caught on a root and she lost her balance. She started to go over backward and spun as if to catch herself. Raziel's momentum carried him forward, his sword swinging for a target that a second before had been two feet higher, and he ran right onto Molly's blade. She was bent over forward; the blade extended back across her rib cage and through Raziel, extending another two feet out his back. They were frozen there for a moment – him bent over her back, stuck together with her sword – like two dogs who needed a bucket of water thrown on them. From a crouch, Molly yanked the blade out, then spun, ready to deliver a coup de grace that would cut her enemy from collarbone to hip. â€Å"Ouch,† said Raziel, looking at the hole in his solar plexus. He threw his sword on the ground and prodded the wound with his fingers. â€Å"Ouch,† he said again, looking up at Molly. â€Å"You don't thrust with that kind of sword. You're not supposed to thrust with that kind of sword. No fair.† â€Å"You're supposed to die now,† Molly said. â€Å"Nuh-uh,† said Raziel. â€Å"You can't say nuh-uh to death. That's sloppy debating.† â€Å"You poked me with your sword, and cut my coat.† He held up his damaged arm. â€Å"Well, you came creeping around here in the middle of the night looking in my windows, and you pulled a sword on me.† â€Å"I was just showing it to you. I don't even like it. I want to get web slingers for my next mission.† â€Å"Mission? What mission? Did Nigoth send you? He is no longer my higher power, by the way. This is not the kind of support I need.† â€Å"Fear not,† said Raziel, â€Å"for I am a messenger of the Lord, come to bring a miracle for the Nativity.† â€Å"You're what?† â€Å"Fear not!† â€Å"I'm not afraid, you nitwit, I just kicked your ass. Are you telling me you're an angel?† â€Å"Come to bring Christmas joy to the child.† â€Å"You're a Christmas angel?† â€Å"I bring tidings of great joy, which shall be to all men. Well, not really. This time it's just to one boy, but I memorized that speech, so I like to use it.† Molly let her guard down, the tip of her sword pointed at the ground now. â€Å"So the glowing stuff on you?† â€Å"Glory of the Lord,† said the angel. â€Å"Oh piss,† said Molly. She slapped herself in the forehead. â€Å"And I killed you.† â€Å"Nuh-uh.† â€Å"Don't start with the nuh-uh again. Should I call an ambulance or a priest or something?† â€Å"I'm healing.† He held up his forearm and Molly watched as the faintly glowing skin expanded to cover the wound. â€Å"Why in the hell are you here?† â€Å"I have a mission –  » â€Å"Not here on Earth, here at my house.† â€Å"We're attracted to lunatics.† Molly's first instinct was to take his head, but on second thought, she was standing in the middle of a pine forest, in freezing rain and gale-force winds, naked, holding a sword, and talking to an angel, so he wasn't exactly announcing the Advent. She was a lunatic. â€Å"You want to come inside?† she said. â€Å"Do you have hot chocolate?† â€Å"With minimarshmallows,† said the Warrior Babe. â€Å"Blessed are the minimarshmallows,† the angel said, swooning a little. â€Å"Come on, then,† Molly said as she walked away muttering, â€Å"I can't believe I killed a Christmas angel.† â€Å"Yep, you screwed the pooch on this one,† said the Narrator. â€Å"Nuh-uh,† said the angel. â€Å"Get that piano against the door!† Theo yelled. The bolts on the front door had completely splintered away, and the Masonite buffet table was flexing under the blows of whatever the undead were using for a battering ram. The entire chapel shook with each impact. Robert and Jenny Masterson, who owned Brine's Bait, Tackle, and Fine Wines, started rolling the upright piano from its spot by the Christmas tree. Both had been through some harrowing moments in Pine Cove's history, and they tended to keep their heads in an emergency. â€Å"Anyone know how to lock these casters?† Robert called. â€Å"We'll need to brace it just the same,† Theo said. He turned to Ben Miller and Nacho Nunez, who seemed to have teamed up for the battle. â€Å"You guys look for more heavy stuff to brace the door.† â€Å"Where did they get a battering ram?† Tucker Case asked. He was examining the big rubber coasters on the piano, trying to figure out how to lock them. â€Å"Half the forest has blown down tonight,† said Lena. â€Å"Monterey pines don't have a taproot. They probably just found one that they could lift.† â€Å"Turn it on its back,† Tuck said. â€Å"Brace it against the table.† The ram hit the doors and they popped open six inches. The table hooked under the heavy brass handles was bending and beginning to split. Three arms came through the opening, half a face, the eye drooling out of a rotted socket. â€Å"Push!† Tuck screamed. They ran the piano up against the braced table, slamming the doors on the protruding limbs. The battering ram hit again, popping the doors open, driving the men back, and rattling their teeth. The undead arms pulled back from the gap. Tuck and Robert shoved the piano against the door and it shut again. Jenny Masterson threw her back against the piano and looked back at the onlookers, twenty or so people who seemed too stunned or too scared to move. â€Å"Don't just stand there, you useless fucks! Help us brace this. If they get in, they're going to eat your brains, too.† Five men pointed flashlights at each other in a â€Å"Me? You? Us?† inspection, then shrugged and ran to help push the piano. â€Å"Nice pep talk,† said Tuck, his sneakers squeaking on the pine floor as he pushed. â€Å"Thanks, I'm good with the public,† Jenny said. â€Å"Waitress for twenty years.† â€Å"Oh yeah, you waited on us at H.P.'s. Lena, it's our waitress from the other night.† â€Å"Nice to see you again, Jenny,† said Lena, just as the battering ram hit the door again, knocking her to the floor. â€Å"I haven't seen you at yoga class†¦Ã¢â‚¬  â€Å"Clear the way, clear the way, clear the way!† called Theo. He and Nacho Nuà ±ez were coming across the floor from the back room carrying an eight-foot-long oak pew. Behind them, Ben Miller was wrestling a pew across the floor by himself. Several of the men who were holding the barricade broke ranks to help him. â€Å"Cantilever these against the piano and nail them to the floor,† Theo said. The heavy benches went up on a diagonal against the back of the piano and Nacho Nuà ±ez toenailed them to the floor. The benches flexed a little with each blow of the battering ram, but they held fast. After a few seconds, the pounding stopped. Again, there was only the noise of the wind and the rain. Everyone played flashlights around the room, waiting for whatever would come next. Then they heard Dale Pearson's voice at the side of the chapel. â€Å"This way. Bring it this way.† â€Å"Back door,† someone shouted. â€Å"They're carrying it around to the back door.† â€Å"More pews,† Theo yelled. â€Å"Nail them up in the back. Hurry, that door's not as heavy as the front, it won't take two hits like that.† â€Å"Can't they just come through one of the walls?† asked Val Riordan, who was trying to join in the effort to hold the line, despite the handicap of her five-hundred-dollar shoes. â€Å"I'm hoping that won't occur to them,† Theo said. Supervising the undead was worse than dealing with a construction crew full of drunks and cokeheads. At least his living crews had all of their limbs and most of their physical coordination. This bunch was pretty floppy. Twenty of the undead were hefting a broken pine-tree trunk a foot thick and as long as a car. â€Å"Move the goddamn tree,† Dale growled. â€Å"What am I paying you for?† â€Å"Is he paying us?† asked Marty in the Morning, who was hefting at midtree, on a jagged, broken branch. â€Å"Are we getting paid?† â€Å"I can't believe you ate all the brains,† Warren Talbot, the dead painter, said. â€Å"That was supposed to be for everyone.† â€Å"Would you shut the fuck up and get the tree around to the back door,† Dale yelled, waving his snub-nose revolver. â€Å"The gunpowder gave them a nice peppery flavor,† Marty said. â€Å"Don't rub it in,† said Bess Leander. â€Å"I'm so hungry.† â€Å"There will be enough for everyone once we get inside,† said Arthur Tannbeau, the citrus farmer. Dale could tell this wasn't going to work. They were too feeble, they couldn't get enough strength behind the battering ram. The living would be barricading the back door even now. He pulled some of the more decayed undead off the tree and pushed in those who seemed to have much of their normal strength, but they were trying to run up a narrow set of stairs carrying a thousand-pound tree trunk. Even a crew of healthy, living people wouldn't be able to get purchase in this mud. The tree trunk hit the door with an anemic thud. The door flexed just enough to reveal that the living had reinforced it. â€Å"Forget it. Forget it,† said Dale. â€Å"There are other ways we can get to them. Fan out in the parking lot and start looking for keys in the ignition of people's cars.† â€Å"Drive-thru snackage?† said Marty in the Morning. â€Å"I like it.† â€Å"Something like that,† Dale said. â€Å"Kid, you with the wax face. You're a motorhead, can you hot-wire a car?† â€Å"Not with only one arm,† Jimmy Antalvo slurred. â€Å"That dog took my arm.† â€Å"It stopped,† Lena said. She was checking Tuck's wounds. Blood was seeping through the bandages on his ribs. Theo turned away from the pilot and looked around the room. The emergency lighting was starting to dim already and his flashlight was panning them like he was looking for suspects. â€Å"No one left their keys in their car, did they?† There were murmurs of denial and heads shaking. Val Riordan had a perfectly painted eyebrow raised at him. There was a question there, even if it was unspoken. â€Å"Because that's what I'd do,† Theo said. â€Å"I'd get a car up to speed and crash it right through the wall.† â€Å"That would be bad,† said Gabe. â€Å"That parking lot had two inches of water and mud the last time I saw it,† Tucker Case said. â€Å"Not every car is going to get up to speed in that.† â€Å"Look, we need to get some help,† Theo said. â€Å"Someone has to go for help.† â€Å"They won't get ten feet,† Tuck said. â€Å"As soon as you open a door or break a window, they'll be waiting.† â€Å"What about the roof?† said Josh Barker. â€Å"Shut up, kid,† Tuck said. â€Å"There's no way up to the roof.† â€Å"Are we going to cut off his head now?† said Josh. â€Å"You have to sever the spinal column or they just keep coming.† â€Å"Look,† Theo said, playing his flashlight across the center of the ceiling. There was a trapdoor up there, painted over and latched, but it was definitely there. â€Å"It leads to the old bell tower,† Gabe Fenton said. â€Å"No bell, but it does open onto the roof.† Theo nodded. â€Å"From the roof someone could tell where they all were before making his move.† â€Å"That hatch is thirty feet up. There's no way to get to it.† Suddenly the high chirp of a barking bat came from above them. A half-dozen flashlights swung around to spotlight Roberto, who was hanging upside down from the star atop the Christmas tree. â€Å"Molly's tree,† said Lena. â€Å"It looks sturdy enough,† said Gabe Fenton. â€Å"I'll go,† said Ben Miller. â€Å"I'm still in pretty good shape. If I have to make a run for it, I can.† â€Å"Right there, that proves it,† said Tuck, an aside to Lena. â€Å"No guy with tiny balls would volunteer for that. See how the dead lie.† â€Å"I'm driving an old Tercel,† Ben said. â€Å"I don't think you want me trying to make a run for help in that.† â€Å"What we need is a Hummer,† said Gabe. â€Å"Yeah, or even a friendly hand job,† said Tuck. â€Å"But that's later. For now, we need a four-wheel drive.† â€Å"You really want to try this?† Theo asked Ben. The athlete nodded. â€Å"I've got the best chance of getting out. Those I can't outrun I'll just go through.† â€Å"Okay, then,† said Theo. â€Å"Let's get that tree over to the middle of the room.† â€Å"Not so fast,† said Tuck, patting his bandages. â€Å"I don't care how fast Micro-nads is, Santa still has two bullets in his gun.†

Coca Cola Analysis

1 I. Introduction â€Å"Coca-Cola and Shasta. † These two products are in the same industry and both were invented around the same time. Nonetheless, a very different perception comes to consumers? mind when they hear these two words. In the 21st cent ury, Coca-Cola is considered one of the most valuable brands in the world, whereas Shasta is mostly known in United States, particularly in the West Coast region. Coca-Cola is owned and operat ed by The Coca-Cola Company, and Shasta is currently owned by National Beverage Corp. This report will examine, compare, and analyze both companies in terms of operation, promotion, management, and finance.In addition, SWOT analysis and Porter? s Five Forces will be conducted to evaluate the companies? positions in the industry. The report will also identify several issues that both companies currently face and suggest alternatives and recommendations in order assist Shasta, a subsidiary of National Beverage Corp. , to gain more market shar e. Table 3 exhibits that National Beverage Corp. makes up only about 2. 8% of the soft drink industry in 2010. Company Background Dr. John Pemberton, a pharmacist from Atlanta, invented Coca -Cola in 1886. The world? s largest non-alcoholic beverage company trademarked its name and logo in 1893.After thirty years of establishment, the company went public in 1919. The share price of its initial public offering (IPO) was $40 a share (Datamonitor, 2010). Coca-Cola expanded rapid ly; it is currently available in more than 200 countries and reaches about 99% of the world population (National Geographic Channel, 2011). Consumption rate of trademarked or licensed products amounts to 1. 7 billion servings a day. As of December 31, 2010, the company has 139,600 employees worldwide (The Coca-Cola Company, 2011). Similarly, Shasta was founded in 1889, three years after Coca-Cola. In Northern California, Mt.Shasta, â€Å"a group of businessmen opened a health and vacation resort at the s ite a nd featured naturally carbonated spring water. † The carbonated water received positive feedbacks from clients who stayed at the health and vacation resort . Shortly after, t hese businessmen established Shasta Mineral Springs Company and started selling the product throughout the West Coast region, including California, Oregon, and Washington. In 1928, the company was renamed The Shasta Water Company, and began to diversify its carbonated water line to a segment with more flavors. In 1985, Shasta was acq uired by National Beverage Corp.Despite of the acquisition and product diversification, Shasta is serving the same West Coast market that it was serving decades ago (Shasta Beverage, Inc, 2010). Target Market Coca-Cola views everyone as potential consu mers. Coca-Cola targets all age groups; however, the one with most potential is the age group between 18 to 25 years old , which tends to have busy lifestyles. Furthermore, the company attempts to appeal students and family-ori ented consumers. The socio-economic status of these demographics ranges from lower to upper-lower income level (Grimm, 2000). These are a few characteristics of Coca -Cola? target market. Soft drink Industry 2 Shasta? s main focus is variety. Even though the company sells a variety of cola, the sales of other flavors are better. Statistics show that ethnic groups prefer flavored drinks over cola. Based on this research, Shasta has centered its target market on et hnic groups. Shasta? s demographic targets: low to middle income consumers, less educated individuals, and large families. Psycho -graphically, the company targets individuals who look for value and quality in a product, like Shasta cola, as an alternative to Coca-Cola or Pepsi (C.Anicich, E-mail Interview, April 20, 2011). Table 3: Industry Trends & Comparison Analysis (source: Beverage Digest) Source: Beverage-Digest (Top-10 CSD Results for 2010). II. Operational Analysis ? The Coca-Cola Company Raw Materials Water is the main ingredient used in Coca-Cola? s products. The soft drink is made from diluting water with concentrates and sweeteners. The concentrates used in Coca -Cola? s beverage remains a secret; therefore, the company does not allow filming during manufacturing processes. According to National Geographic (2011), the beverage is made with 90 percent water.Because water? s taste varies at every location, Coca-Cola has to neutralize the water to ensure that its products taste consistently worldwide. The other main ingredient is high fructose corn syrup (HFCS) and since imported sugar is more expensive, Coca-Cola uses HFCS as its principal sweetener. Manufacturing Coca-Cola is the largest player in the non-alcoholic beverage industry. It operates in over 206 countries and has 900 bottling plants and factories worldwide with locations such as Eurasia, Africa, Europe, Latin America, as well as North America (National Geographic, 2011).Due to this, these manufacturers must adhere to strict sta ndards in order to produce sta ndardized CocaCola? s products. Moreover, Coca-Cola manages its manufacturing processes efficiently. For Soft drink Industry 3 example, the new factory in Baton Rouge operates 24 hours a day, five days a week, and can produce up to 4. 5 million beverages in one day. Additionally, in recent efforts to be environmental friendly, the company announces that it will change its electrical equipments and reduce water usage. The decision is projected to save the company approximately one million dollars annually. DistributionsCoca-Cola has the world? s largest distribution system; hence, it is a ble to reach almost every region (Coca-Cola Co. , 2011). The company distributes its beverages to consumers through various retailers, wholesalers, vending machines, and distribution centers. Furthermore, it sells its syrup and concentrates to cafes and restaurants used in fountain drink dispensers. ? National Beverage Corp. (Shasta) Raw Materials National Beverage Cor p. collaborates with many suppliers for raw materials and packages. Moreover, the company consolidates its purchasing function for cost containment purposes (National Beverage Corp. 0K, 2010). This advantage allows the company to compete against major beverage companies. Some of the materials used to produce the beverages are sweeteners, juice concentrates, carbon dioxide, water, glass, p lastic bottles, aluminum cans, paper, cartons, and closures (NBC 10K, 2010). The costs of the materials are very volatile; reasons being are because of gas prices, tariffs, foreign exchange fluctuations, etc. Consequently, the company purchases forward agreements with suppliers to minimize the price increases on certain materials. Manufacturing National Beverage Corp. ets up manufacturing plants strategically. Its twelve manufacturing facilities are located near major U. S. metropolitan cities; thus, enab ling the company to distribute products promptly and efficiently (NBC 10K, 2010). In manufactu ring plants, the company bottles and cans its beverages. National Beverage Corp. believes that ownership of bottling facilities provides a competitive advantage o ver some competitors? dependency on third party bottlers (NBC 10K, 2010). As a result, the company is able build its own competitive advantage and become s more experienced and efficient. Distributions National Beverage Corp. tilizes a hybrid distribution system to deliver products through three primary distribution channels: take-home, convenience and food-service (NBC 10K, 2010). Take-home channel distributes to grocery stores, wholesalers, and warehouse stores such as Costco. Secondly, the convenience channel, which distributes to gas station and convenient stores such as 7-Eleven stores. This channel allows the company to charge higher selling price than the other channels because of lower sales volumes. The last channel is food-service. This channel distributes its products to schools, hotels, airlines, restaurants, a nd other food related places.Soft drink Industry 4 III. Promotional Analysis ? The Coca-Cola Company Word-of-Mouth Consumers are talking about brands and companies every day, and it so happens that a vast number of conversations are about Coca-Cola. According to Keller Fay Group, a research marketing firm, a study of 25,142 consumers shows that Coca-Cola is currently the most talked about brand in America (Wang, 2008). This finding demonstrates and measures the sample of consumers? conversations on a daily basis. In addition, the CEO of Keller Fay Group, Ed Keller, states, â€Å"†¦these brands fall under the realm of „social categories? and have greater frequency of purchase. As a result, consumers are exposed to packaged goods? logos and slogans frequently. The more products consumers purchase daily, the more likely that they are to start conversations about the products within their social circles. The table below exhibits the ten most talked about brands and Coca-Cola is placed first. Top 10 Word-of-Mouth Most Talked About Brands: 1. Coca-Cola 6. Ford 2. AT&T 7. Dell Computers 3. Verizon 8. Sony 4. Pepsi 9. Chevrolet 5. Wal-Mart 10. McDonald's Public Relations Coca-Cola has strong public relations because it is always on the forefront of contributing to the community and society.For instance, Coca-Cola recently announces to the press that it has just established the Coca-Cola Japan Reconstruction Fund, which promises to raise 2. 5 billion yens ($31 million U. S dollars), to assist the reconstruction of Japan over the next three years (â€Å"Coca-Cola raises†, 2011). As a result of this generous act, Coca-Cola will receive great public media presses. Social Media Since the emergence of social media on the Internet, Coca-Cola has increased its presence in the global community. For example, Coca-Cola? s Facebook page has more than 5. 18 million fans and still growing, which makes Coca-Cola? page one of the top fan pages on Facebook (Staff, 2 010). This illustrates the immense community support and brand loyalty the company receives on the Internet. In addition, Coca-Cola also utilizes the Internet as a tool to support the community in charitable acts. Example being, Coca-Cola promises to give one dollar to the Boys and Girls Club every time a Facebook user gives a friend a â€Å"virtual coke;† thus, raising about $126,000 for the organization (Staff, 2010). Overall, Coca-Cola uses the social media for community engagements and also to reach out to more consumers.Global Branding As the first mover in the market, Coca-Cola is currently known as a global brand, not just Soft drink Industry 5 an American brand. For instance, when the company entered the China market in 1928, the first direct translations of Coca-Cola had absurd meanings; such as â€Å"bite the wax tadpole† or â€Å"female horse stuffed with wax. † However, with due diligence and core competency in branding research, Coca-Cola was able t o choose different characters pronounced â€Å"K'o K'ou K'o LE, † which literally means, â€Å"let the mouth rejoice† or â€Å"happiness in the mouth† (Wooten, 2011).This proves that the company takes branding seriously and tackles every global venture strategically by adapting to local cultures. ? National Beverage Corp. (Shasta) Overview In the company? s mission statement, National Beverag e Corp.? s main focus is variety. Its soft drink line has over thirty different flavors with new flavors being tested every day. Its goal is to have consumers identify themselves with particular flavors. As individuals grow older, their likes, tastes, and personalities will change. National Beverage Corp. encourages its consumers to link their transformations to their favorite soft drinks.Its other objective is to promote itself as a friendly soft drink company that everyone can relate to. By using social media platforms such as Facebook, the company is able to reach out to current as well as new consumers. Also, word-ofmouth is known as the greatest influence for consumers ; thus, National Beverage Corp. hopes to satisfy consumers in order to create a word-of-mouth â€Å"boom† effect. Conceivably, this tactic can possibly lure over other consumers who belong to its competitors. The company also follows a consumer-based promotional strategy t hat centralizes on fitting the consumer? image to his or her favorite drink, rather than creating an image for consumers like Coca -Cola. With this, National Beverage Corp.? s promotional strategy can be dissected into parts by engaging the promotional strategy mix: advertisement, public relations, sales promotion, personal selling, and direct mail. Advertising Recently, National Beverage Corp. began showing television and online commercials highlighting its low prices in comparison to larger soft drink co mpanies. These comical commercials exhibit individuals being hit in the heads with a Shasta can; thus , coining the â€Å"Hit in the Head† theme.The end of the advertisement shows a statement, â€Å"Some people wouldn? t know a good deal even if it hits them in the head. † The focal point is to gain a satirical image in the viewers? minds to reiterate the fact that National Beverage Corp.? s soft drinks are usually priced lower than its competitors. Moreover, the vibrant colors used in the commercial highlight the many flavors that the company carries. Public Relations National Beverage Corp. cleverly uses the Internet as a medium to promote its image as a â€Å"neighborhood friend† to its consumers.By utilizing Facebook, the company starts a monthly promotional page called â€Å"Shasta Pop,† which is maintained by its employees who post three to four weekly highlights. These posts mainly discuss about advertising soft drinks, especially around the holidays. In addition, there are recipes on how Shasta can be combined in daily cooking. Soft drink Industry 6 Sales promotion Presently, based on its â€Å"Shasta Pop† Facebook page, National Beverage Corp. uses a Shasta van that travels around California and gives out free soda cans, discounts, coupons, and T-shirts. This promotional tactic is known as â€Å"Sha sta Pop Stops. For example, to promote new flavors, Stater Bros. will be inviting the Shasta pop van with KFROP radio station to its store locations. Moreover, fans are able to follow the Shasta van by tuning in to some of their local radio stations. Personal Selling In terms of sales, National Beverage Corp. mainly conducts business with local retail grocery stores. In order to promote its products, it offers attractive discounts to retailers through partnerships. For example, a retailer that chooses to place National Beverage Corp.? s products in front of the store will receive a higher profit for every sale. Direct MailAs Internet usage increased exponentially over the years, National Beverage Co rp. uses the Internet to send promotions to consumers via E -mail. Subscribers of â€Å"Shasta Pop† Facebook page receive periodic coupons through their Facebook? s wall and E-mail accounts. IV. Financial Analysis ? Sales Graph 1 shows that Coca-Cola generates most of its revenue from international markets. The U. S. revenue accounted for 31. 7% of the total revenues in 2010, which was $11. 1 billion, a gain of 34. 6% compared to 2009 revenues. Moreover, international markets made up 74. 1% of the total revenues in 2010, which was about $23. billion, an increase of 4% compared to 2009 international revenues. The significant growth in U. S. sales can be traced to the gain from the acquisition of Coca-Cola Enterprises and the growt h of its other beverage products, such as Fuze, Trademark Simply, and tea. However, international market sales rose slightly due to the concurrent growth in emerging markets as well as a decline in developed markets. Additionally, the unfavorable impact of foreign curren cy exchange rates was primarily responsible for a stronger U. S. dollar compared to other currencies (Coca-Cola, 2011, p. 63). Graph1: Coca Cola 2010 Sales by Segment 3% 0% 7% 13% 11% 14% 32% Source: 2010 Coca – Cola 10-K Report Soft drink Industry Eurasia & Africa Europe Latin America North America Pacific Bottling Investment Corporate 7 On the other hand, National Beverage Corp. sells its products to U. S. market only. Therefore, its domestic sales account ed for 100% of the total revenue in 2010, which was $593. 5 million, an increase of 3. 2% from 2009. Robust revenue in 2010 resulted from growth in the sales of case volume of 1. 2% for energy drinks, juices a nd waters; and 5. 1% for branded carbonated soft drinks. Moreover, â€Å"unit pricing increased 0. % which mostly due to positive product mix changes. The improvement was partially offset by a decline in allied branded volume† (NBC, 2011, p. 13). For the past six years, Coca-Cola increased its revenues and ne t incomes with average growth rates range from 8% to 18% annually. In 2005, sales were only $23. 1 billion. However, 2010 sales amount ed to $35. 1 billion, an increase of 13% from 2009. Additionally, 2010 net income was $11. 8 billion, an increase of 72% from 2009. The large growth was due to when the company acquired Coca-Cola Enterprises in October 2010, it recorded other income of $4. 8 billion.However, Coca-Cola experienced drawbacks in 2009 after the 2008 market crash. Its revenue dropped 3% to $30. 9 billion; nonetheless, its net income still gr ew to 17. 5% during 2009 as a result of price increase and effective cost cutting method of operating expenses as well as cost of goods sold (see Table 1). Even though National Beverage Corp. did not experience as much growth as Coca-Cola in its financial statements, its revenues have also been rising steadily since 2005. In 2010, revenue reached its highest level at $593. 5 million, an increase of 3% from 2009. Likewise, 2010 net inc ome was $32. million, an increase of 33% from 2009, primarily due to â€Å"higher sales volume, favorable changes in product mix and lower raw material costs† (NBC 10 -K, 2010, pg 13). Since 2005, revenue increased with an average of 3% per year, and net income growth averaged 11% annually. National Beverage Corp. experienced some setbacks in 2008 when the recession occurred. Though revenue increased, net income decreased by 9% to $22. 5 million (see Table 2). Table 1: Coca Cola Company (2005 -2010) (in millions) 2010 2009 2008 2007 2006 2005 Net Oper. Revenue 35,119 30,990 31,944 28,857 24,088 23,104 Cost of goods sold 12,693 11,088 11,374 10,406 ,164 8,195 S elling, general and admin expenses 13,158 11,358 11,774 10,945 9,431 8,739 Net Income 11,859 6,906 5,874 Source: sec. gov (Coca – Cola Company 10-K Consolidated Income Statement) 5,981 5,080 4,872 Table 2: National Beverage Corp. (2005 -2010) (in thousands) 2010 2009 2008 2007 2006 2005 Net sales 593,465 575,177 566,001 539,030 516,802 495,572 Cost of sales 396,450 405,322 393,420 365,793 349,131 340,206 S elling, general and admin expenses 145,159 131,918 138,447 137,212 135,090 130,037 24,742 22,480 24,682 22,226 16,886 Net income 32,853 Source: sec. gov (NBC 10-K Consolidated Income Statement) Soft drink Industry 8 ?Financial Overview According to data compiled by Bloomberg, Coca-Cola, leader in non-alcoholic beverage industry, is valued at $153. 15 billion via the market capitalization method. On the contrary, National Beverage Corp. , on the mid-size market capitalization roster, is valued at only $628. 23 million. In another word, Coca-Cola? s value is approximately 244 times more than National Beverage Corp.? s. Table 1 and table 2 show the income statements for these two companies for comparison purposes. Coca-Cola has been able to increase its revenues year after year and recorded top net sales at $35. 1 billion in 2010. Gross margin was 63. %, or another way of interpreting this i s the company took away $0. 639 per dollar of sale. Furthermore, after all expenses and income tax deductions, $0. 336 was net income per dollar of sale. The company boosted its bottom line from $6. 8 billion to $11. 8 billion primarily through revenue growth ($31. 0 billion to $35. 1 billion). For costs associated with cost of goods such as selling, general and administrative expenses (SGA) and income tax, a ll increased as a percentage of sales. However, the growth in revenue contributed enough to still see net income improve (Coca-Cola, 2011). Similarly, National Beverage Corp. as also been able to increase its revenue; therefore, increasing its net income year aft er year. Gross margin in 2010 was 33. 2% compared to 29. 5% in 2009. Due to lower economies of scale, National Beverage Corp.? s largest expense has been consistently cost of goods sold. Even though the company was able to reduce cost of goods sold expense from 70. 47% to 66. 80%, this expense was still high and is fin ancially harmful. However, the reduction in cost of goods sold in 2010 was a major driver that led to a bottom line growth from $24. 7 million to $32. 9 million (NBC 10-K, 2010). ? Financial Ratios Analysis Coca-ColaCOKE (KO:US) Current Quick ROA ROE Assets Turnover Inventory Turnover A/P Turnover A/R Turnover 1. 17 0. 85 14. 82% 42. 32% 0. 58 5. 07 times or 72 days 7. 88 times or 46. 32 days 8. 58 times or 42. 54 days LTDebt to Assets Total Liabilities to Total Assets Interest Coverage 0. 19 0. 57 19. 43 Coca-Cola? s financial ratios indicate that the company is in good health. In respect to profitability, return on assets (ROA) was 14. 82% and return on equity (ROE) was 42. 32%. These figures help the investors to assess management performance. Furthermore, liquidity indicators measure the company? s ability to meet short-term obligations.In 2010, current and quick ratios were 1. 17 and 0. 85, respectively. The quick ratio presents a more stringent figure on liquidity. Even though the â€Å"Golden Rule† states that it should be at least one, a figure like Coca -Cola? s can Soft drink Industry 9 be considered normal for a multinational company. Solvency calculations include long-term debt to total assets as well as total liabilities to total assets, which calculated at 0. 19 and 0. 57, respectively. Additionally, the interest coverage ratio, which indicates how many times interest expense is covered by operating profits before taxes and interest are factored in. Coca-Cola? interest coverage ratio was 19. 43, which meant operating profit was about 19 times larger than interest expense. Although there were not enough liquid assets to satisfy current obligations (total liabilities to total assets ratio of 0. 57), operating profit was more than adequate to service the debts. In addition to the calculations above, activity ratios measure how effective the company is utilizing its assets. Assets turnover, the amount of sales generat ed for every dollar's wor th of assets, was 0. 6. Inventory turnover, indicates how many times a company's inventory is sold and replaced over a period, and calculated at 5. 7 times per year or every 72 days. This shows that inventories were managed well. Accounts payable, represents an entity's obligation to pay off a short-term debt to its creditors, was 7. 88 times or every 46 days. Accounts receivable, is used to quantify a firm's effectiveness in extending credit as well as collecting debts, reported at 8. 58 times per year or every 43 days (Coca-Cola, 2011). National Beverage Corp. NBC (FIZZ:US) Current Quick ROA ROE Assets Turnover Inventory Turnover A/P Turnover A/R Turnover LT-Debt to Assets Total Liabilities to Total Assets Interest Coverage 2. 30 1. 71 20. 1% 21. 05% 2. 35 10. 67 times or 34. 21 days 8. 12 times or 45 days 11. 04 times or 33. 06 days N/A 0. 41 432. 13 For a mature company like National Beverage Corp. with a much smaller market capitalization, financial ratios indicate good perform ance year after year. Profitabi lity ratios like ROA and ROE were 20. 51% and 21. 05%, respectively. These returns on investment calculations were well above the industry? s average, which is very impressive. Liquidity indicators, such as current and quick, were 2. 30 and 0. 9, respectively. Unfortunately, these figures were below the industry? s aggregate.In regards to solvency indicators, total liabilities to total assets ratio was 0. 41:1 or $0. 41 debt for every dollar of asset. National Beverage Corp. used little or no debt in its capital structure and may have less financial risk than the indu stry? s aggregate. This increased the interest coverage ratio to 432. 13, meaning operating profit was 432 times larger than interest expense. Lastly, an activity ratio, such as total assets was $2. 35 revenue generated per dollar of asset. Inventory was presented at 10. 67 times per year, or every 34 days of cost of goods sold tied up in inventories.Accounts payable ratio indicates that the company collected 8. 12 times per year or every 34 days. Accounts receivable, reported at 11. 04 times per year or about every 33 Soft drink Industry 10 days worth of sales outstanding. In conclusion, National Beverage Corp. also appears to be in good financial standing. V. SWOT & Porter’s Five Forces Analysis ? SWOT Analysis Coca-Cola SWOT Analysis Strengths: Weaknesses: – Strong brand image and customer loyalty – High fixed costs of business – Robust global infrastructures and distribution – Several product recalls system – Higher prices compared to others Various product offerings – Solid financial condition and market presence Opportunities: Threats: – Expand to other developing countries – Change in customer preferences – Offer new beverages/drinks – Global economic recession – Shift focus to volume/price/ mix – Foreign exchange fluctuations National Beverage Corp. SWOT Analysis Stre ngths: Weaknesses: – Diverse product offerings – Low profit margin – Hybrid distribution system – Limited to U. S. market only Opportunities: – Expand to other neighboring countries – Offer new beverages/drinks – Increase in the non-alcoholic beverage ndustry ? Threats: – Change in customer preferences – Global economic recession – Rising cost of inputs – Competition from major beverage manufacturers Porter’s Five Forces (Soft Drink Industry) Threat of new entrants (Low): (H): Low switching cost for buyer, Low product differentiation (L): High economies of scale, High capital requirement, Low access to distribution channel Power of buyers (Moderate-High): (H): Low switching cost for buyer, Moderate product differentiation for supplier (L): Low purchase volume for buyer, Low threat of backward integration Power of suppliers (High): H): High switching cost to another supplier, High suppliers? concentra tion, Low availability for product substitute Soft drink Industry 11 (L): High importance of customer, Low t hreat of forward integration Threat of substitute product (Moderate-High): (H): High differentiation of substitute product (L): Low price performance relationship Intensity of Rivalry (Very high): (H): High number of competitors, Low industry growth rate, high fixed cost and storage cost, Low switching cost for buyers, High exit barriers (L): None Threat of New Entry (Low) Supplier Power (High)Competitive Rivalry (Very High) Buyer Power (Moderate High) Threat of Substitution (ModerateHigh) VI. Management Analysis The management analysis section will examine management structures, corporate policies, mission statement s, and vision statements of both The Coca-Cola Company and the National Beverage Corp. The management structure segment will explore the corporate leaders and executives as well as the workplace environment. A segment on corporate policy will observe responsibili ties and ethics expectations of every employee. The last segment will analyze each company? mission and vision statement and what it means to the company. ? The Coca-Cola Company Management Structure Management at the corporate level is headed by Muhtar Kent, Chairman of the Board of Directors and Chief Executive Officer. Other top officers at the Coca -Cola Company include Executive Vice President Irial Finan, Chief Financial Officer Gary Fayard, President of North America Alexander Douglas, and President of Latin America Jose Reyes. Soft drink Industry 12 Coca-Cola creates a winning culture by developing a diverse workplace. At the core, there is the â€Å"right employee† value proposition, which is directly ffected by four key values. These values are finding the right talent, right capabilities, right leaders, and the right workplace (Global Diversity, Our Strategic Framework 2010). In order to create the right workplace, the company must sustain positive diversity and fa irness on all levels of operations. Finding the right talent relates to matching the right people with the market they serve. Building the right capabilities is about sharing social culture and knowledge in the workplace. The right leaders leverage talent in the workplace to achieve superior results across the business.Coca-Cola Company currently employs 139,600 people, also known as â€Å"associates† (Businessweek, 2011). Corporate Policy and Ethics The Coca-Cola Company has been able to enhance its reputation through integrity and ethical conduct. Therefore, it is important for the company to safeguard these values and set standards to ensure employees do the right thing. The company? s Code of Business Conduct covers guidelines on integrity around the globe, internal as well as external integrity, and conflicts of interest. Mission and Vision Statement The Coca-Cola Company has set long term road-map of acquiring its bottling partners.The 2020 vision defines the company? s attitudes and behaviors that are required to turn the vision into reality. Furthermore, Coca-Cola? s mission statement serves as a guideline for company? s actions and decisions (Mission, Vision, Values, 2010). ? National Beverage Corp. Management Structure The executive team at National Beverage Co rp. is led by Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer Nick A. Caporella. Other top officers include President Joseph Caporella, Principal Financial Officer George Bracken, Executive Vice President of Procurement Edward Knecht, and Chief Accounting Officer Dean McCoy.National Beverage Corp. has been able to create a winning cultur e through several key factors. First, t he company works as a whole towards strength, knowledge, and longevity of management team ([NBC] The Difference, 2010). Its seco nd factor is the flexibility to plan globally and act locally, this includes the process of vertical integration, hybrid distribution, and basket of beverages ([NBC] The Difference, 20 10). The company currently employs 1,200 workers (Businessweek, 2010). Corporate Policy and Ethics Ethical conduct is vital to ensure successful and lasting business relationships (National Beverage Corp.Code of Ethics, 2007). National Beverage Corp. also sets high standards of ethics for all its employees, supervisors, and managers. These include the procedures for the employees to act accordingly when dealing with the following: ? Conflicts of interest ? The use of entertainment, gifts, and payments Soft drink Industry 13 ? Relationships with customers or suppliers, and government employees ? Receipt of items by National Beverage Corp. employees ? Complete and accurate financial records as well as communication ? The use of company assets ? Workplace environmentMission and Vision Statement National Beverage Corp. continually strives to set a higher standard for value, quality, variety and innovation as a leader in the beverage industry ([NBC] The Difference, 2010). It continually positions itself as a unique beverage company with innovative ideas. Furthermore, the company places its people, products research and development, environment, packaging, and consumers at its forefront to create innovative advantages for the company. VII. Alternatives Financial Objectives According to most observers, there are two strategies for achieving superior erformance in any business. One strategy is product and service differentiation; the other is low -cost leadership. In National Beverage Corp.? s case, it is appropriate to suggest a low-cost leadership strategy. This method focuses on consumers? attention on product pricing, often using such slogans as â€Å"everyday low prices† or â€Å"the lowest price in town. † The goal is for the company to become the lowest cost producer in the marketplace so it can underprice the competition, achieve the highest sales volumes, and still make a profit on each sale.This can be attained by making quantity discount purch ases, having a lean administrative structure, and using production efficiencies from vigorous cost containment. As the business environment changes, few companies actually pursue just one strategy. Most will attempt to implement both-developing customer loyalty while controlling costs. National Beverage Corp.? s management will now ha ve to decide to: (1) improve profit margin, (2) increase asset turnover (more sales volume or fewer assets), or (3) both. In this case, it is best for management to formulate goals to increase profit margin.Profit Margin ROA and Competitive Advantage 30 25 20 15 10 5 0 NBC 0 0. 5 1 1. 5 2 Assets Turnover Soft drink Industry 2. 5 3 COKE 14 Strategic Objectives The core business from these two companies stems from the production of soft drinks. Coca-Cola has its Coke line as National Beverage Corp. has Shasta. Unfortunately, there are many products within Nat ional Beverage Corp. that cause brand dilution. To overcome this effect, the company can shift f ocus back to the Shasta brand and eliminate low performing players. This will in turn, strengthen Shasta and consolidate the brands that are left.Some alternatives the company may want to consider are broken down into short-term and long-term. Short-term In order for Shasta to gain greater brand recognition in a short time, it is imperative that National Beverage Corp. increases its marketing budget. Several possibilities to better market Shasta are: ? Advertise at college sports events ? Target more local domestic stores to increase â€Å"Buzz† effect ? Use celebrity advertising, specifically o lder television show celebrities ? Create a new commercial that is consistent with the marketing strategy of Shasta (example: promote self-identities of consumers through favorite soft rinks) These potential marketing strategies all focus on strengthening Shasta? s brand image. They also allow the company to remain consistent with its overall marketing plan. Long-term Further analysis shows that Shasta? s range of consumers is very narrow. The company only distributes in four states: California, Arizona, Utah, and Minnesota. Several approaches to increase sales of Shasta are: ? Distribute to more states ? Develop distributing partnerships with large retailers like Target Expanding distribution channels will boost sales of Shasta. The residual income can then be used to invest in building new production plants.Moreover, developing contracts and partnership s with large retailers like Target will ensure greater product placement, therefore, revamp brand awareness among consumers. VIII. Recommendations Short Term Create a new commercial that is consistent with the marketing strategy of Shasta Shasta rarely advertises on TV or online. However, it does have a popular commercial, which aired recently, â€Å"Hit in the head. † Unfortunately, it is neither good nor interesting. Besides, it does not match with the company? s current marketing strategy to have cons umers identify themselves with their favorite beverages.If Shasta is able to create a different approach for its advertising method and follow its marketing strategy, it may be able to obtain greater brand recognition and market shares in the soft drink industry. Since Shasta is National Beverage Corp.? s core competency, the company should approach the consumers based on this beverage line. The best way is to create a commercial that promotes self-identity based on the flavors that Shasta offers. With the target market being very diverse, this new commercial might appeal not Soft drink Industry 15 to just different ethnic groups, but also younger consumers who like to be different and unique.Long Term Develop distributing partnerships with large retailers to increase p rofit margin In 2010, National Beverage Corp. had a 66% cost of sales ratio, whereas Coca-Cola had 34. 3%. National Beverage Corp. „s cost of sales was excessively high for industry? s standard; therefore, was the primary cause of low profit margin. In order to increase profit margin, the company should lower its production costs by achieving larger economies of scale through building or developing distributing partnerships with large retailers like Target. This in turn will lower production and distribution costs.Consequently, Shasta cola brand will be availa ble to many other states and reach more consumers and markets; thus, boosting revenue and total sales volume. Soft drink Industry 16 XI. Bibliography About National Beverage Corp.. (2009, January 1). National Beverage Corp.. Retrieved March 28, 2011, from http://www. nationalbeverage. com/10AboutNBC. htm Coca Cola Company. (2008, Feb. 28). 2007 Form 10-K. Retrieved March 29, 2011, from http://sec. gov/Archives/edgar/data/21344/000119312508041768/d10k. htm Coca Cola Company. (2011, Feb. 28). 2010 Form 10-K. Retrieved March 28, 2011, from http://ir. thecoca-colacompany. com/phoenix. zhtml? =94566&p=IROLsecToc&TOC=aHR0cDovL2lyLmludC53Z XN0 bGF3YnVzaW5lc3MuY29tL2RvY3VtZW50L3YxLzAwMDEwNDc0NjktMTEtMDAx NTA2L3RvYy9wYWdl&ListAll=1&sXBRL=1 Coca-Cola Raises Total Pledge to 2. 5bln Yen for Japan Relief. (2011). Asia Pulse. Datamonitor. (2010, Apr. 15). National Beverage Corp: Company Profile. Datamonitor Company Profiles Authority. Retrieved March 27, 2011, from http://search. ebscohost. com. lib-proxy. fullerton. edu/login. aspx? direct=true&db= buh&authdb=dmhco&AN=7E22BD44-DB90-4E61-AE79-F5F25D7169FB&site=bsilive Datamonitor. (2010, May 28). The Coca Cola Company: Company Profile . Datamonitor Company Profiles Authority.Retrieved March 27, 2011, from http://search. ebscohost. com. lib-proxy. fullerton. edu/login. aspx? direct=true &db=buh&authdb=dmhco&AN=37CB5616-D04E-49EE-9F5CFFE75047D6FF&site=bsi-live Disclaimer/Terms of Use. (2009, January 1). National Beverage Corp.. Retrieved March 27, 2011, from http://www. nationalbeverage. com/SiteInfo. htm Events & Promotions – Shasta. (2010, January 1). Shasta Beverages , Inc. Retrieved March 28, 2011, from http://www. shastapop. com/events-promotions/ Grimm, M. (2000). Drink me. American Demographics, 22(2), 62-63. Marketing Mix (4 p's) – Promotion and Promotional Strategies. (2010).Welcome to Learnmarketing. net – Learn about Marketing here. Free Marketing Education, Lessons and Marketing Resources. Retrieved March 27, 2011, from http://www. learnmarketing. net/promotion. htm Mission, Vision, & Values. (2011) Retrieved April 10, 2011, from http://www. thecoca-colacompany. com/ourcompany/mission_vision_values. html National Beverage Corp. (2007, Jul. 12). 2007 Form 10-K. Retrieved March 29, 2011, from http://sec. gov/Archives/edgar/data/69891/000095014407006550/g08320e10vk. htm National Beverage Corp. (2007). National Beverage Corp. Code of Ethics. 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Soft drink Industry Coca Cola Analysis The Coca Cola Company The company that I have chosen for my course project is the Coca Cola Company. The reason for my selection is simple, I am impressed with growth associated with Coca Cola and plan on further researching and analyzing how such growth of this magnitude is possible. The company was founded in 1886 by John Pemberton as a simple soft drink, created solely out of curiosity. John Pemberton, a pharmacist, mixed together the caramel flavored carbonated drink and initially starting selling it for 5 cents.Now 126 years later, Coca Cola has more than 3500 beverages, sold in over 200 countries and employ more than 146,200 employees. What debuted as a simple soft drink in an Atlanta pharmacy, now has a global success rate of 1. 8 billion servings per day. Product List The following product list is from research gathered covering the Coca Cola drinks of the North American Region in the United States. Globally Coca Cola has over 3500 products. The products sold solely in the Un ited States range from juices, energy drinks, soft drinks, coffees, teas, sports drinks and drink mixers.Coca Cola diverse efforts to cover every aspect of liquid drinks, whether for sporting events or simply enjoyment, have made up a total of XXXXXX in the United States alone. The original Coca Cola product was first introduced in 1886 and distributed nationally by 1899. Today you can find your favorite Coca Cola product literally anywhere in the world. Due to higher concerns for health and nutrition, in 2007 Coca Cola furnished caffeine content per serving along with already available nutritional information. Product Lines and MixThe Coca Cola Company has 7 product lines within their beverage selection. They all fall into the non alcoholic liquid beverage sold in restaurants, stores, vending machines and distribution companies in the United States. Of the 7 product lines (see table A below), you can see that the most variety falls under the soft drink line with over XXXXX of produ cts. Table A. Product Coca Cola Products have some of the most distinct flavors. At times they were criticized for adding certain ingredients, such as cocoa leaves, to enhance flavor and increased desire to drink the soft drink.Today the Coca Cola products sold in stores in the United States range from carbonated delightful drinks, to sports drinks used to fuel the body with electrolytes (See Table B. below). Coca Cola's first product was actually made by mixing a â€Å"fragrant, caramel flavored liquid and combined with carbonated water. (Coca Cola Co. , 2012). It became an almost instant sensation and today Coca Cola owns some of the favorite soft drink products sold in the U. S. such as Dr. Pepper, Sprite, PowerAde, Minute Maid, and Dasani. Table B. |Type of Drink | Popular | |Soft Drinks |Carbonated -flavored |Coca Cola- Sprite | |Juices |Non carbonated fruit drinks made from real fruit juice and |Minute Maid Lemonade | | |flavoring | | |Energy Drinks |Energy carbonated drink s made from Ginseng and Tuarine |Monster Energy | |Sports Drinks |Combines carbohydrates with fluid for hydration |POWERADE | |Tea / Coffee |Iced Coffee and Tea |Nestea | |Water |H20 |Dasani | |Other |Drink mixers, lactic drinks, and coffee blend |Bacardi Mixers | Include competition and SWOT ANALYSIS here before final draft!!! Branding Founded in 1886, the now famous brand that can be found world wide, Coca-Cola is the face to many different popular brands that we find on store shelves. In the 1950's Fanta joined Coca Cola only to be followed by Sprite, Tab, Minute Maid, Mr. Pibb, and Mello Yello.In the 1980's the famous brand Diet Coke and Cherry Coke were added, and the 1990's brought about the PowerAde and Dasani era. The Coca Cola logo has remained unchanged and impressively a letter script font so simple has become globally recognized. Packaging In 2010, Coca Cola switched from â€Å"The Coca Cola Management Company (TCCMS)† to the â€Å"Coca Cola Operating Requiremen ts (KORE)† to ensure quality, and product safety. Coca Cola holds a high standard in packaging and quality control of their operations. Coca Cola is consistently refining their efforts to maintain a high level of packaging and implementing new requirements as deemed necessary.Since Coca Cola is packaged globally, the â€Å"KORE† has implemented a set of requirements that are must be in accordance with packaging guidelines in order to protect the integrity of the product wherever it may find it's destination. The Coca Cola company first started bottling their product in 1894 in a now commonly known bottle called a â€Å"Hutchinson†. You can now find the product in a 6. 5oz, 10oz, 12oz. , 26oz. , bottle, plastic and aluminum containers. The product can also be found in a concentrate form. Sold in a carton box with the concentrate inside a plastic sealed bag, restaurant owners can then connect to their carbonated mixers and serve fountain drinks. Product FeaturesCoc a Cola has some very unique features and on top of having a patented flavor that has literally been untouched since its' debut in the late 1800's, the Coca Cola Company has now expanded it's diverse taste palette to accommodate anyone’s preference of taste. From soft drinks, to energy drinks, you can literally find a match from a Coca Cola product. One of Coca Cola's biggest product features is that you can find your favorite product shelved at a local store, anywhere in the world. A great product feature is that you can purchase it in bulk or by a single unit. Labeling The Coca Cola Company provides several labels for their customers to attain facts of the beverage that they are consuming.Nutritional Facts and UPC codes can clearly be found on Coca Cola Products. Since 2007, Coca Cola began furnishing a detailed â€Å"caffeine content in addition to nutritional information already provided. † ( Coca Cola, 2012). As of 2008, Coca Cola began providing â€Å"servings-pe r-container† and â€Å"calories-per-serving† for all customer's. Finally in 2009, Coca Cola's packaging was formatted differently to provide an immediate visual presentation of the calorie content on front of packaging. Competition It is no secret that Pepsi Cola Company is Coca Cola's direct competition. For many years we have seen the on going marketing battle of the two companies literally feuding via commercial air waves.The long battle is due in large part to Pepsi's direct marketing strategy to out due or match every single move that Coca Cola makes. The shadow-like improvements of each mega marketing campaign have proven to be cornerstones in marketing and advertising trends that we see today. The mega moves and strategies that each company has the ability to afford are a great tools for any company to take notes on and follow suit. Interestingly enough, Pepsi competes with Coca Cola in a different approach; Coca Cola has over 3500 soft drink products and Pepsi w orked its' way into marketing their brands of chips, oatmeal, snacks, cereal, teas, soft drink PricingDue to the variety of sub- brands under Coca Cola, price segmentation is in place due to the different markets and global distribution pricing as well. In the United States, Coca Cola Company and Pepsi Cola have become mega players in the oligopoly market. With less competitors, and the same brand names seeking larger market share, the pricing strategy on a product that sometimes can be found for $1. 00 U. S. , is uniform delivered pricing. (Lamb, Hair, McDaniel, 2012). Since distribution is world wide, the companies prefer to factor in their own freight and production costs, to deliver the price demand that competitors are available to offer. There is a mutual agreement when in a market such as oligopoly.The pricing strategy is still competitive pricing strategy, due to the fact that if Coca Cola decided to lower prices, Pepsi Cola would soon follow suit to stay within the target m arkets price demand. It is also very realistic that when competitors raise or lower prices, the opposing players can decide not to match opposing prices as a strategic stronghold to maintain position in economic market spot. In a recent article from the â€Å"News by Industry†, Pepsi announced a â€Å"festive promotional price cut† and sources close to Coca Cola said that they would not match the cut. (â€Å"Pepsi to Cut†, 2012) Since the beverage commission has very little companies with a lot of buyers, the pricing strategy is competitive and based on competitors pricing.Pricing in this market is very elastic and companies have the ability to change pricing as they wish depending on their geographic locations. The pricing in vending machines can also vary since labor costs do not exist and can basically sell the product all day, every day. The pricing strategy on Coca Colas different product sizes is extremely strategic. Depending on where you purchase the pro duct from, prices will vary. According to a recent poll question asked on Yahoo, â€Å"how much does your Coca Cola cost where your at? †, average cost on a 20oz. bottle of Coke is about $1. 25, average cost for a 2l bottle of Coke is about $1. 10, nationwide. Promotional pricing can be found regularly on 2l bottles and packages with larger per volume products.The pricing strategy is tactical and allows for consumers to feel the need to upgrade to save on price and increase volume. The most expensive form of consumer product purchase is the 5 gallon â€Å"bag in box† form. This concentrated syrup is usually purchased by restaurants/bars industry, and can yield 30 gallons of fresh fountain product. This price also varies on your geographic location and distributor, but on average here in Texas can be purchased from Sam's Club for $69. 83. (Sams, 2012) When sold in restaurants, soft drinks now sell for about $2. 00 for a 10-16oz glass, making it extremely profitable and cost effective to purchase the concentrate.On the other hand, Coca Cola benefits for simply selling the concentrate and less costly forms of packaging. Place Since Coca Cola is one of the most popular soft drinks in the world, distribution is in high demand and in a multitude of channels. The distribution method that is used by Coca Cola is in the Fast Moving Consumer Goods. Here the products do not rely on a long shelf life and due to the moderate and easy pricing, products are in high demand, sell at a high rate and distribution is high. Ranging from mobile vendor carts on the streets to some of the large amusement parks such as Disneyland and 6 Flags, distribution is effective in every form.At the end of the day when added up globally, Coca Cola is at the top of the beverage consumption list. Some of the many distribution channels include the following. Mobile/ cart vendors- mobile vending can satisfy consumers conveniently at their location instead of having the consumer come to a retail store or stand. Provides easier access to consumers in special events or parks with the satisfaction of a cold beverage in any location. Vending Machines- with an occasional restocking visit, a vending machine provides an assortment of products at no labor cost. The vending machine provides product to areas that are remote or not within walking distance to the store, accessibility and great advertising.Vending machines are favorites in schools and business lounge areas. Retail stores / grocery stores- with places such as Wal-mart, this allows for a wide array of variety to be shelved and advertised while selling the product. Coca Cola holds contracts and agreements to provide for strategic placement of their product so that the first visual product such as Coke is in plain site. Competitors products are pushed to the end of the aisles. Hotels, Restaurants, Cafe- This is by far the largest number of consumption since restaurants and bars use a large number of soft drinks an d mixers. Contracts and sponsorships with these locations provide for major distribution.Amusement Parks, Museums, Civic Centers- Areas like Disneyland and 6 Flags over Texas are the biggest types of distribution forms. Amusements Parks hold concerts and special events where the â€Å"official beverage† of the theme park are displayed profoundly. Within the park are restaurants and food courts that are also limited to selling the â€Å"official beverage† adding to the large number of distribution methods. In a recent article provided by Beverage World, â€Å"Six Flags Entertainment Corp. and The Coca-Cola Company have announced a 10-year extension to their partnership agreement, designating Coca-Cola as Six Flags' official beverage sponsor for all domestic parks. (â€Å"Coke, six flags,† 2012) With a partnership agreement of this magnitude, competition is increased due to the large number of exposure and distribution that is provided. Coca Cola has had this sam e contract with 6 Flags for the last 50 years. Any media that is released or furnished by 6 Flags Over Texas, (i. e. Twitter, Facebook, Yahoo) will automatically provide the â€Å"Coca Cola-Official Drink† stamp. With a consistent strategic placement in a venue such as ginormous as an amusement park, it can be said that all of Coca Cola distribution channels undoubtedly cover important areas to contribute to the 1. 8 billion serving per day in over 200 countries. Promotion Communication StrategyA communication strategy is the way in which a company relays information for the products or services to reach the consumers hands and attention. The Coca Cola Company has several strategies which it employs to reach their target market. In order to reach the correct target market a strategic and precise strategy must be applied. Although specific, detailed marketing information could not be obtained, in 2006 roughly $2. 6 billion dollars were used for advertising expenses in pursuit of reaching a solid communication strategy. In 2000, only $1. 7 billion was spent on advertising. (Coca-Cola FAQ. 2012) In my summary the amount of advertising investments paid in relation to dividends generated will be defined.According to a recent article by Forbes Magazine, The Coca Cola Company is at the top of all beverage companies, and ranked #3 among the most powerful brands in the world. Forbes Magazine also estimates Coca Cola's advertising expenses at around 3. 2 billion (Badenhausen, 2012) In order to form a powerful communication strategy, the target audience must be defined. The following target market is what Coca Cola has found to be beneficial for the companies growth. . Young athletes- young athletes are a good source to start with. By increasing product awareness at a young age, you inspire taste bud recollection and a higher return. Young athletes are easier to inspire with promotional ads, billboards and endorsements from professional athletes. More of the sport s drinks and water fits into this category.High School Athletes- High school athletes are constantly looking up to professional collegiate athletes. Adding the endorsement incentive to these young athletes is a primary step in increasing product consumption. Sponsorships Collegiate Athletes- here athletes are influenced by professional figures and the hopes of the Olympics. Endorsement deals are larger here since the competition is fierce with hungry rising, mature individuals. Sponsorships Pro Athletes- Endorsements are the main source of advertising. Professional athletes are the main element of advertising and sports drinks are seen everywhere. Young Adults- Non Athletes- Clubs, bars, and nightclubs are the focal point in order to attract this demographic.Professionals- very open form of market. Basically all elements of the previous demographics factor into the professionals. This is an ongoing form of demographic that derive from the adolescent to present day professional. Larg e Audience- there is no specific market here as it applies to the whole general consumer base as a whole. It is the maximum exposure that creates a large audience base. Olympians- The entire universe participates in these events and are a great source of advertising. Here endorsements here are extremely valuable as athletes are in a world wide arena and competition is extremely fierce. Other- made up of all elements comprisedSales Strategies Coca Cola has several different sales strategies that have actually worked for them numbers wise. According to an article posted by â€Å"The Packaging Digest† in 2011, a recent sales strategy boosted sales by 8% to 2. 2. billion world wide, and actually increased the product price by 3%. (Crocker, 2011) This is a proven method that has given results. The placement of products is strategic. When shopping for health foods, one of the most popular fruits being the bright yellow bananas, you will find â€Å"Dasani† , eco friendly recy cled water bottles right under them. Pairing items like this is a tactic that has proven effective since 2011.Another strategy is one that Coke Zero uses to place their products in the beer section, to encourage the designated driver to consume their products. Finally, the 2 liter coke that is found in the grocery stores near the pre-cooked chicken is also a strategy to make it easier for you to â€Å"grab and go†. Making it easier for people to shop faster is key. Vending machines and coolers with the product before check out are some of the sales strategies that Coca Cola uses to increase sales in a market of $1 products. â€Å"The competition is actually pretty fierce for the overall beverage dollar,†¦ It requires a lot of marketing and promotional support. â€Å"(Crocker, 2011) Sales ApproachIn order for a product to remain within the realm of competition it is necessary for your product to remain as fresh as it was as when you opened it. Coca Cola claims that thei r approach is quite simple in this aspect according to a recent article in the Forbes Magazine. Jeff Tripodi, CMO of Coca Cola, claims that their strategy is innovation. (Dan, 2012) Having a state of the art dispensing machine will increase sales, further connecting with your consumers will also increase your chances at success. One of the recent forms of innovation are the â€Å"Freestyle† dispensing machines that can pour 125 different beverages with a perfect pour each time. Building a strong cultural connection with your geographic area you plan on promoting to is a huge plus in improving overall sales.In order to promote sales a great promotional mix is required to ensure that all advertising expenses are maximized and yield awesome results. The following is promotional mix that includes all of the avenues thru which sales are promoted. Promotional Mix Advertising- commercials, billboards, visual advertisments, vending machines Sales Promotion- Battle of Bands, My Coke R ewards Personal Selling- Coca Cola Representatives Social Media- Facebook, Twitter Communication Channels / Media A recent article on Coca Cola's webpage, March 27, 2012, announced the acceptance speech of the companies induction to the â€Å"Advertising Hall of Fame†. With over 120 years in the beverage business, there is no doubt that Coca Cola has held some very important marketing campaigns.Their first campaign came in the 1920's, with â€Å"The Pause That Refreshes†, then with â€Å"Things Go Better With a Coke† in the 1960's, and present day â€Å"Open Happiness†. Today over 845 million people are connected to Coca Cola via Facebook, 6 billion cell phone subscriptions, and 2. 5 million connected regularly via the webpage. (â€Å"Remarks in acceptance,† 2012) In order for these communication channels and effective marketing efforts to be maximized, a diverse array of marketing efforts are taken into account in the following channels. Promotion al Tasks: Internet Sporting Events Billboards TV Advertising Press Concerts Sales Promos Promotional SWOT Analysis SWOT |Positive |Negative | | |Strengths |Weakness | |Internal |Globally recognized |Product shipment could be damaged | | |Established distribution |Recalled products costly | | |Established Market shares |Endorsements could cost face of the company with a | | |Brand identity |simple mistake | | |Opportunity |Threats | | |unlimited partnerships |Pepsi is the biggest competitor | |External |unlimited new product offerings |the product is inexpensive and easily lose consumers to | | |globally recognized brand |competitors | | |offer beverages for all carbonated or â€Å"un†. |the caffeine and diet craze could prove costly. | Conclusion to Promotional Analysis The Coca Cola Company deals with promotional aspect of their business on a mass communication level. The company usually doesn't know the type of people with whom they are trying to communicate with but rather who their target market is.Careful management of this delicate area can ensure that messages are being met and no clutter of message or mixed signals occurs. The promotional campaigns that the Coca Cola Company is operating grew 20% to 10. 2 billion dollar in the year 2011 so that you can say that it is extremely effective and does work. The Coca Cola Company is represented by everyone who drinks it and when they do, they are literally providing advertising with a profit rather than at an expense. Coca Cola originated in the U. S. A. and has built a brand that has represented many countries during the Olympics. For that reason Coca Cola has had a successful and prosperous lifespan.They have allowed the people that drink the product the opportunity to share in many of its' triumphs during the Olympics and built a brand that is represented by the people who enjoy Coca Cola. 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Forbes Magazine, Retrieved from http://www. forbes. com/powerful-brands/ Crocker, R. (2011). Sales pop as coke refreshes strategy. The houston chronicle:Packaging digest, Retrie ved from http://www. packagingdigest. com/article/519787- Dan, A. (2012, 03 15). Coca cola's joe tripodi on staying relevant.Forbes Magazine, Retrieved from http://www. forbes. com/sites/avidan/2012/03/15/inside-the-coca-cola-marketing-machine/ Lamb, C. W. , Hair, J. F. , & McDaniel, C. (2012). MKTG 4 (6th ed. ). New York: Cengage. ISBN: 9781133190110 . Sams Club. (2012). Retrieved from http://www. samsclub. com/sams/dr-pepper-syrup- The Coca Cola Company FAQ's. (2012) Retrieved from http:/www. coca-colacompany. com/contact-us/faqs. The coca cola company. (2012). Retrieved from http://www. thecoca-colacompany. com/ourcompany/index. html The Pepsi cola company. (2012). Retrieved from http://www. pepsico. com/ Yahoo (2012). Retrieved from http://yahoo. com ———————– [pic]