Charles Darwin s Theory Of Evolution - 1173 Words

It is time to start believing. Evolutionary theories were first proposed by Charles Darwin in the 19th century, and 150 years later, these ideas are still being studied and proven today. Charles Darwin set the basis for these discoveries. Natural Selection and survival of the fittest are two examples of evolution. Charles Darwin once exclaimed, â€Å"It is not the strongest of the species that survives, nor the most intelligent that survives. It is the one that is the most adaptable to change.† This and many accusations have set the tone for what has developed into one of the most resound theories in the history of science. Charles Darwin has benefitted modern society through his scientific discoveries such as his theory of evolution, his†¦show more content†¦First, Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution by natural selection answered certain questions on how certain living things came to be. One thing that Darwin’s theory explained is why organisms have fe atures such as wings, eyes, and kidneys (â€Å"Evolution†). This was a theory that shocked the world, as many people wondered how such things were created, but most believing that a God had created living things, and even believing in a different scientific theory, the big bang theory. Also, Darwin’s theory of natural selection explained the multiplicity of plants and animals (â€Å"Evolution†). Natural selection is the process whereby organisms better adapted to their environment tend to survive and produce more offspring, proving another one of Darwin’s theories, survival of the fittest. Survival of the fittest is the fact that the strongest organisms, mentally and physically, would survive longer by producing more offspring carrying the same genes as the parent organisms (â€Å"Evolution†). Survival of the fittest explains why in modern times, people and other organisms are smarter and stronger. Organisms have a better chance of survival when th ey have certain qualities that prove better than other of the same species. In this aspect, the theory of evolution by natural selection, proposed by Charles Darwin, has benefitted our modern society. Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution by natural selection and another one of his theories, sexual selection, have both

The Harlem Renaissance A Important Period Of History

The Harlem Renaissance is a very important period in history for many reasons. The Harlem Renaissance was a cultural, social, and artistic explosion that happened in Harlem. Harlem was a cultural center during this time. It drew black artists, musicians, writers, poets, and scholars. It was also very important because it affected black culture for the rest of time. It also advanced them greatly during that time. Black lives during the Harlem Renaissance were definitely not great still. But they were improving. People were starting to respect them more and there art, writing, and music. The Harlem Renaissance created a very new type of music. A new upbeat jazz genre was created. And with this music new dances came with it. Some popular musicians include, Duke Ellington, Louis Armstrong, and Billie Holiday. It also brought in new poetry. Some famous poets include Langston Hughes, Claude Mckay, and Countee Cullen. Please consider adding the poems â€Å"I too†, †Å"After the Winter†, and â€Å"Let America Be America Again† and a history of the Harlem Renaissance as an exhibit in your museum. The first poem you should include is â€Å"I, Too† by Langston Hughes. This poem is about a â€Å"dark brother† or a black man who was sent to eat in the kitchen. And when â€Å"company† comes he will laugh and eat well and grow strong. And then the next day he will be at the table with the company and nobody tells him to go to the kitchen because he s a beautiful man now. Struggle is definitelyShow MoreRelatedExploring African American History : The Harlem Renaissance1521 Words   |  7 PagesTi’Anna Smith Period 1 AP World History 12-14-15 Exploring African American History: The Harlem Renaissance The Harlem Renaissance originally known as the New Negro Movement was an important part of African American culture and history, which helped African Americans express themselves and celebrate their heritage. Between the years of 1890-1920 close to two million African Americans traveled from the rural southern states to the northern cities. They traveled to these northern cities in hopesRead MoreHarlem Renaissance : A Cultural, Social, And Artistic Explosion840 Words   |  4 Pagesexplosion that took place in Harlem between 1919-1929 became known as the Harlem Renaissance. The Harlem Renaissance was a great time period in history for blacks. The Harlem Renaissance included great artists such as Langston Hughes, James Weldon Johnson, James Baldwin, and more. The Harlem Renaissance was a movement in which blacks asserted themselves by embracing their racial identity and appreciating their African heritage. In my opinion the Harlem Renaissance gave blacks a sense a pride. ItRead MoreThe Harlem Renaissance : An Important Piece Of History For America1473 Words   |  6 PagesThe Harlem Renaissance, originally called the New Negro Movement, was a movement that shook the 1920’s in the United States of America. The Harlem Renaissance spanned between the years of 1918 all the way to the mid 1930’s. This movement was a movement of the arts. It has been said that this time period was a rebirth to the African American arts. The Harlem Renaissance is an extremely important piece of history for America. The Harlem Renaissance took place soon after the â€Å"Great Migration.†At thisRead MoreThe Harlem Renaissance Movement By Zora Neale Hurston, Langston Hughes, And Ralph Waldo Ellison931 Words   |  4 PagesKnown as one the most impactful movements on African American arts, the Harlem Renaissance Movement represented a period of artistic and intellectual change that initiated a new identity on black culture. Often called the â€Å"New Negro† Era, the Harlem Renaissance opened doors for African American to express themselves in the form of visual arts, musical elements, and even performing arts during the 1920s. Due to this movement, Harlem became the city that â€Å"gave African Americans a physical cultural centerRead MoreSignificance of the Harlem Renaissance817 Words   |  3 PagesThe Harlem Renaissance was a pivotal point in history. While it did not break down the racial barriers associated with Jim Crow laws, the attitudes toward race did change. Most importa ntly, black pride became paramount as African Americans sought to express themselves artistically through art and literature, in an effort to create an identity for themselves equal to that of the white Americans. Many writers influenced this period with their works, and African Americans gained their rightful placeRead MoreClaude Mckay s Harlem Dancer And Ended Around 1929 Essay1535 Words   |  7 PagesThe Harlem Renaissance began in 1918 with the publication of Claude McKay’s â€Å"Harlem Dancer† and ended around 1929. During this period, there was a wave of literary works by, and about, Blacks. The Harlem Renaissance was a period of great intellectual expression as well as introspection (Bodenner). There were several key moments and individuals that made this era of time historical. African American artists rejected imitating the ideals of white Americans and championed black artistic expression onRead MoreThe Harlem Renaissance s Influence And Impact1262 Words   |  6 PagesThe Harlem Renaissance s Influence and Impact The Harlem Renaissance era is known for its rich culture and being the source for many African American breakthrough artists such as Alain Locke,W.E.B DuBois, and Ethel Waters. . Whether it be the diversity of music, drama, art, or literature, it’s surely present during that period of time and still is today. Many questions about this time period include â€Å"How was Harlem life like back then?† â€Å"What is the Harlem Renaissance?†, and â€Å"How did itRead MoreAnalysis Of Langston Hughes s Poem Essay707 Words   |  3 PagesEnglish B† and â€Å"Mother to Son.† Both poems were written around the Harlem Renaissance Era. Both of the poem Hughes shares learning new things and using a creative language. His poems are empowering, it speaks from a creative mind. We should study my texts because of the cultural center for Africa-American: writers, artists, musicians, photographers, poets, scholars. The poem reflects the Harlem Renaissance era. The Harlem Renaissance was a name given to the cultural, social, and artistic explosionRead More Passing Essay885 Words   |  4 PagesPassing Nella Larsens novel, Passing, provides an example of some of the best writing the Harlem Renaissance has to offer. Nella Larsen was one of the most promising young writers of her time. Though she only published two novels it is clear that she was one of the most important writers of the Harlem Renaissance movement. Her career as writer probably would have lasted longer, but she was accused of plagiarizing her short story, Sanctuary. She was eventually cleared of any wrongRead MoreHarlem Renaissance Essay1069 Words   |  5 PagesHARLEM RENAISSANCE Throughout the history of African Americans, there have been important historical figures as well as times. Revered and inspirational leaders and eras like, Martin Luther King and the Civil Rights Movement, Nat Turner and the slave revolt, or Huey Newton and the Black Panther Party. One such period that will always remain a significant part of black art and culture is the Harlem Renaissance. It changed the meaning of art and poetry, as it was known then. Furthermore, the

How to Survive a Zombie Apocalypse Free Essays

string(60) " has degraded by then, it won’t be able to catch you\." How to survive a zombie apocalypse Zombies, do they exist? Can there be actual zombies roaming around on the streets, ready to make anyone and everyone who comes in sight a zombie? Well, Hollywood thinks so. The reason I’m basing this theory of ‘can zombies be real’ or the fact that zombies can one day roam amongst us (eventually destroying mankind), is because they are the biggest influence in our lives. Don’t believe me? Then I guess the long list of zombie movies might help you change your perspective. We will write a custom essay sample on How to Survive a Zombie Apocalypse or any similar topic only for you Order Now Their ideology of assuring us into believing that the concept of ‘zombies’ or ‘zombie apocalypse is real’ is quite believable. And movies like Resident Evil, Dawn of the Dead, and 28 Days Later are perfect examples of such an event. Each of these movies has groups of people who are trying to get to a safe place, away from all these zombies. But there isn’t any guide or rules that they can follow while they’re on this road to freedom. It’s just one step at a time (and some of them get eaten in the process as well). So, there should be a guide which tells them how to survive if such an apocalypse ever occurred. In order to get infected by a zombie, you need to be bitten, or bite one of them, although I have no idea why you would ever want to. The saliva and blood of a zombie have the potential to infect a person and eventually turn them, so keep your mouth shut if you’re the stupid one using a chainsaw. To be honest I prefer a good old fashioned flamethrower to burn those zombies where they stand. How about an idea; perhaps someone can read this article (a movie director) and magically keeps a few copies of it in the movie for the actors to find. Alright, alright, that was not a good joke. So let’s move past that and get a bit serious. But before we do get to the specific rules to keep yourself safe from a zombie apocalypse, I’d like to divert your attention to yet another movie, Zombieland (by the way, I think it’s one of the best zombie movies of all time), It’s funny, intelligently made, and the cast is small, but perfect. If you have seen the movie, then you’ll find some of those rules implemented here as well. And if you didn’t get the opportunity to watch this classic movie, then may I suggest, please do so. And with that small note, we will proceed towards our golden rules to survive a zombie apocalypse. What is a zombie? There are multiple definitions of the word zombie. The dictionary defines zombie as â€Å"an animated corpse that feeds on living flesh. † Other sources define zombie as â€Å"One who moves or acts as if in a daze† or â€Å"a member of Congress† or â€Å"a Voodoo snake god. † While snake gods are interesting, this how-to article will deal with only the first and second definitions of zombie. While Chavs were once thought to be zombies it has been recently proven that it is not the case. It would be an insult to zombies if they were even contemplated to be in the same category as Chavs. Such contemplators were subsequently eaten. Types of zombies There are twelve types of zombies. They will be listed with a little fact about them: 1. Horde zombies are dangerous to combat effectively. They require much more potent weaponry to approach with confidence, but are easier to flee and avoid. 2. Grue Zombies, grues who have (somehow) died and became zombies. There is really no way to kill grue zombies unless you have Chuck Norris or can successfully pull off the shoop da whoop. 3. Camper zombies, zombies who hide and wait for prey, are the other common type. Campers hide in darkened corridors, side rooms, and even in the drywall. They prefer to wait for their prey to come near and then burst out and seize the victim. 4. Fast Zombies are some of your most dreaded enemies when facing legions of the undead. Fast Zombies can vary in many ways, but the main item is that their entire physique (i. e. rotting of fat, skin, veins, and organs. ) is morphed to allow them to strike fast. The majority of fast zombies have been found to have been overzealous gym instructors and annoying co-workers who won’t let go of the â€Å"Can do attitude† even post-mortem. 5. Elvis Impersonator Zombies These are usually the rarest, if not the most entertaining variety of undead you may encounter. They can be easily identified by their signature hairdo, glittery suits, and trademark lurching walk which they plagiarized from Elvis. This isn’t really even a walk, since they don’t actually get anywhere. 6. When you know a Smart Zombie is around, the best thing you can do is avoid him at all costs. Smart Zombies have the ability to set up and carry out plans. 7. Sewer Zombies like to spend all their time in sewers and in drain areas, they are afraid of light so taking a flashlight is a good idea. A better idea is to just avoid sewers. 8. Lady Zombies are exactly what they sound like. Every necrophilia’s nightmare, they are girl zombies. But surprisingly, they’re not that different from the live ones, they still moan and groan about the men never taking them anywhere. 9. The Zombie†¦.. Chuck Norris!!! , this is the most dangerous zombie ever. Some of the zombie abilities he is theorized to possess include infecting people by burping on them; complete cellular regeneration (means he can’t be killed. Ever. ) 10. Animal Zombies Depend on your luck. A zombie snail is most common but they’re totally harmless. Other kind of animal zombies do exist. Some of these are â€Å"dog† zombies. If a zombie gets to be this big, then it’s lethal. However, since much of its muscle has degraded by then, it won’t be able to catch you. You read "How to Survive a Zombie Apocalypse" in category "Papers" (THANK GOD!!! ) If a CHEETAH zombie attacks you, even without its degraded muscle, then you’re screwed. 11. Peanut zombies’ A. K. A. The Terrors of the junkyard, these vermicious brutes wander the junkyards, in poorly built helies, or controlling guns. Avoid these brutes; they have a leader, Project #295. He has two dual glocks, and is not afraid to use it. beware the ultimate power. 12. Ninja/Samurai/Genghis Khan Zombies Once feared and respected warriors of Japan; the zombie infection has made them some of the most terrifying zombies to invade your country. All have high level martial arts skills and requires extreme weapon tactics to wipe out; if using hand-to-hand combat, the chances are you will not survive. Certain firearms to have Everybody needs a weapon so here are the top ten: 1. Chainsaw- Most of all Resident Evil or horror films and countless Hollywood scenes show the awesome power of the chainsaw. As cool as it is though, it ranks very low on the practical zombie-killing weapon list. . Lawn Mower- All the same problems as Chainsaw, with even greater problems. You know how hard one of those things are to lift, let alone to a position that the blades can even do their work. Also, it is not made to be lifted up into the air, so even if you can lift the mower, it will not stay up there for long. It might of looked cool in Brain Dead, it will never work. 3. S lingshot- It wouldn’t be the wisest of choices. Using it against a zombie will only alert it to your presence, stupid. Unless you throw a bomb with it. 4. Edged Weapons- Imagine using a sword to kill a crowd of zombies nd you stab some zombie through the skull in the brain. Now imagine you turn to the zombie behind you to do the same, only to realize that it’s stuck on the first zombie that you stabbed and you can’t seem to get it back†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦. not a pretty picture, is it? So use one without a serrated edge. Unless you are a skilled fencer, this is an inadvisable choice. 5. Rubber Ducky- †¦. not sure if that is the best idea, but just remember it’s your funeral JOINING THE LEGIONS OF THE UNDEAD. So if you REALLY want to use it and see what happens, by all means go ahead (dumbass). If you are dumb smart enough to do this, make sure you have a friend tape it and stick it up on YouTube, you will get more hits than Achmed the Dead Terrorist, easy. 6. Mop If there are no other blunt weapons available, you can always run to that janitorial closet(provided you didn’t stuff zombies in there earlier) and take out a Long, Wooden, MOP! Only to be used against 5-6 zombies, otherwise the long and heavy mop may sort of, backfire on you. 7. Weed Whacker- Insert into the mouth and let the fun begin (not usable for groups, will become the zombie’s â€Å"fun†)! 8. Large Minigun: will kill a lot of zombies, and is fun! Though whoever is using it will die just as his buddies got to relative safety. 9. Shotgun: The second best weapon for zombies, there buck shots will blow off the heads of several zombies, the person who is carrying a shotgun will survive most zombie outbreaks. 10. Pistol: short range, small clip, small bullet, only use on small groups, otherwise you are dead (or undead). Guide on Surviving a Zombie Apocalypse If we happen to be caught up in the world-ending zombie plague, then it wouldn’t hurt for us all to have a certain ‘how-to’ list with us, right? There can be tons of rules to survive a zombie apocalypse as every one of us has a different way to tackling situations. And since I’ve never been in this type of position before (thank God), I will be listing rules that I feel are ideal. So here are my top rules on how to survive a zombie apocalypse. 1. Run 2. Run even faster 3. Run faster than that guy next to you 4. Trip the guy next to you 5. Don’t let the spazzy woman try and get her dog back 6. Shoot people randomly 7. Drive to Alaska (Zombies will freeze into corpsicles, delicious AND nutritious! , but get there fast, the roads will be too congested and if you’re too slow†¦ It’ll only be a tasty flesh bottleneck 8. Go out to sea (zombies can’t swim, but it’s fun to see them try. Warning:Peanut Zombies know how to swim, so run) 9. Sacrifice Ms. Barbra, the old lady across the street (no one liked her anyways. ) 10. Don’t fall asleep in the open 11. If surrounded, just distra ct them with a classy dance (Warning: May cause: Zombification, Death, Death, and more Death. ) 12. Always find the nearest gun and ammo Shop, and always trade at least a 10,12, or 20 gauge shotguns, one hit kills 13. Notice that we said trade. Not even think about break into the shop, the shop keeper is always good with gun and you won’t stand a chance. Hell, he’s most likely the boss in that area with several goons, each carries gun bigger than yours. 14. Don’t, for even one second think that you are safe. 15. You need 1 shot in their heads to kill them. So keep a few shotguns with you. 16. If you’re in the house, board up the windows and doors properly. 17. Fill as many containers as you possibly can with water. 18. Keep food supplies and other essentials. 19. Along with guns, gather anything that can smash skulls; keep them handy. 20. Find a safe place for you, your friends, and family members. 21. Before sunset, find a secured location to sleep. 22. Always keep your travel bags light; less weight to carry means more easily to flee. 23. Do not harbor people who have been attacked or bitten by zombies. 24. Always wear comfortable clothing. Avoid movie-like wardrobe. 25. Wear as many layers as you can reasonably get away with. Have a trusted friend try to bite or claw their way through your wardrobe to test fabric strengths ahead of time. 6. We do want to survive so ladies no high heels, and fellas no saggin pants. 27. Have a first aid kit with you in the house and in your getaway car. 28. While traveling, DO NOT go in the woods or lonely areas. 29. If you’re trying to stop the zombies from entering in the building, please don’t try to hold the door. 30. Don’t go anywhere alone. Follow the buddy system. But if youâ€⠄¢re the only human left, then I guess you’re on your own. 31. Learn the zombie dance from Thriller. Because what if the zombies dance? And what is the difference between surviving and not dancing with them? 2. Guys we know you want to impress your girl, but please follow rule 33. If you want to impress her just keep her safe and stay alive yourself. 33. And our final golden rule: DON’T BE A HERO AND GO OUT IN SEARCH OF ZOMBIES TO KILL. Zombies are slow who drag their feet as they walk. As they’ve lost control over their brain or the brain doesn’t function properly, they are not very intelligent. But you are. So take necessary precautions before you go out there and try really hard to make it. Living in an undead world can be tough. So perhaps these rules can make existing less scary. How to cite How to Survive a Zombie Apocalypse, Papers

Business Strategy Strategic Analysis

Question: Discuss about the Business Strategyfor Strategic Analysis. Answer: Introduction Strategic analysis is the use of various tools to evaluate the opportunities and challenges that are faced by the organization. The aim of this report is to provide an understanding of the critical thinking and application of the various internal and external concepts on the Raffles hotels in Singapore. The report prepares a strategic analysis for the tourist spot of Singapore. Raffles hotel is selected as a tourist spot of the Singapore. It has been served as a landmark of Singapore for over a century. The report describes PESTLE analysis, SWOT analysis and strategic options of the Raffles hotel as a tourist spot in Singapore. At the end, the report provides useful recommendation and conclusion based on the strategic analysis of tourist place of Singapore. External Analysis Pestle Analysis Over the past few years, Singapore has shown extraordinary economic growth. Therefore, today it contains as a high -income economy. The pestle is an external tool to study the macro-environmental factor that is an acronym for the political, economical, social, environmental, technological and legal. Pestle analysis of Raffles hotel as tourist spots can be described as below- Political factor- Political risk in Singapore is low. Therefore, political and economic consultancy states that tourism sector of Singapore enjoy the lowest political risk. It can be said that Singapore is a democratic country (Cadle et al., 2010). Moreover, Singapore has a most stable and corruption free government in the all Asian countries that help the Raffles hotel to make itself as famous tourist spots of Singapore. Economical factor- The Singapore economy is developing at a very fast pace so that it is known as vibrant free- market economy. Per capita income of Singapore people is high so they are able to visit different tourist place with the help of their high income. As the government of Singapore is corruption free, therefore, it supports the business environment of the Raffles hotel of Singapore for the effective growth (Mennen, 2011). Raffles hotel also makes free trade agreements with China and Taiwan that make the wider business market and increase the tourist to visit this hotel. One of the main attraction points of Raffles hotels is its strategic geographic location that attracts the visitors. Social factor Singapore is a country that has a very vibrant cosmopolitan culture and a very strong education system. Hence, these social factors are very supportive to the tourist spots as well as Raffles hotel in the Singapore. Moreover, it is considered a very safe city that attracts the tourist to visit the tourist place of Singapore. Technological factor- One main reason behind the change in the lifestyle and quality of life in the Singapore is the technological advancement. The internet plays an important role in the growth of tourism sector in Singapore. Since, it increases the level of communication and connectivity that will reduce the time and cost (Osterwalder and Pigneur, 2013). Singapore has a world-class IT support and infrastructure that is well connected with the different part of the world such as- airline and hotels. Legal factor The growth of tourism sector of Singapore depends on market favorable legislations, transparent and regulations. Since some legal and regulatory and business setting is required to support the economic growth and industry development of the Raffles hotel. In addition to this, there is some legal and technical infrastructure and laws that will secure the e-commerce i.e. electronic transaction act, evidence act, tax issues and import-export procedure of Singapore (Gander, 2017). Environmental factor Singapore is a remarkable country in the context of the tourism sector. It is a house of motivated and talented people. In addition to this, water drainage act and water pollution control help to control the quality of water. On the other hand, the ministry of environment and anti-pollution unit work to maintain the quality of air and another factor that it are directly and indirectly related to the environment (Grant and Jordan, 2015). Therefore, Singapore is known as the best tourism place as fresh environment attract more and more tourist to visit the various places in Singapore. Internal Analysis SWOT analysis Raffles Hotel Singapore began its operations as a privately-owned beach house made in 1830s. The hotel is well-known for its services as these satisfy the needs and wants of tourists who come from different parts of the world. Since, the hotel plays an important role in the tourism and hospitality industry of Singapore; it becomes necessary to conduct SWOT analysis of the hotel in order to know its strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. Strengths The success and the Brand name of Raffles Hotel in Singapore are the major its major strengths. The staff personnel of the organization are experienced, skilled, and customer-oriented, which provide best quality services to the customers. Next, important advantage is that the hotel offers wide range of food, and beverage at reasonable rates (Hargreaves, 2015). Also, the hotel has a number of well-decorated and furnished rooms to attract more customers to visit the hotel. Apart from room services, and food, the hotel also offers spa services, conference halls, and disco. Furthermore, the credit worthiness of the hotel is high, which enables it to borrow fund from bank in order to perform operations successfully. Weaknesses One of the major weaknesses of Raffles hotel is that it incurs higher cost on its operations, which affects its overall profits generated. Also, the quality of food is not as much satisfactory as expected by the customers. Another weakness of the hotel is the lack of technological and regular training to the employees which make them uncomfortable while dealing with unpredicted changes and hurdles (Henderson, 2015). There is also a high rate of employee turnover in the hotel, which is due to low satisfaction level among employees. Cultural differences also add to the weaknesses of the organization as these create a significant communication problem between the management and employees. Opportunities Since tourism sector is expanding day-by-day, Raffles hotel Singapore has a great opportunity to expand its business in new and emerging markets at global level. Recent researches have also shown that todays modern customers have increased their spending in tourism and hospitality services. It creates a good opportunity to fully utilize its potential in attracting new customers via unique services and experience (Salvioni, 2016). Moreover, the hotel can have its online presence through website to provide the facility of online hotel booking for enhancing customer base and loyalty. Threats Along with opportunities, Raffles hotel also finds a number of threats which can negatively affect is position and sustainability in tourism industry of Singapore. One of the main threats is the intense competition from other tourist spots of Singapore, which offer same facilities at lower rates (Bruni et al., 2017). The major competitor of Raffles is The Hotel De LEurope, which is several years older than Raffles. Moreover, economic recession also create a significant threat for the hotel, as it can reduce the organizations revenues. Change in technology is another factor that creates threat for the organization if the manpower is not given proper training on how to use new techniques. Strategic Options There are various strategic options available to tourism organizations for gaining competitive advantage over rivalries or to achieve other objectives. After the analysis of internal and external environment in which Raffles operates, it becomes necessary for the management to search the strategic options available to the company (Carlisle et al., 2016). The evaluation of options is based on the needed resources, the degree of control over future strategies, and the efficiency by which a change in position can be obtained. Following are some relevant strategic options for the company: Cost Leadership Today, the strategy of cost leadership is of great significance in tourism sector. Raffles hotel can decrease its operational costs in order to generate higher profits on investment. For making the cost leadership strategy to work effectively, it is important for the company to make its services recognized at global level so as to increase the sale volume (Henderson, 2016). Moreover, the services should be standardised to lower the prices and get access to a large market. Differentiation Another strategic option is differentiation which the hotel can adopt. The hotel can practice this strategy by adding some unique such features to its services, which are hard to substitute by rivalries. Differentiation includes branding, best quality, and hotel location. Further, the cost differentiation should not exceed the cost which the premium customers are ready to spend (Chang, 2016). However, this strategic option does not challenge the market leader directly, but it minimizes the possibilities of harmful competitive responses like reducing prices. The hotel can also invest in specialized distributional channels which are most relevant to the companys market segment (Purwomarwanto, and Ramachandran, 2015). Another option that the company can exercise is that the hotel can have a website that represents hotels distinctive attributes in order to give customers an insight into the purpose and missions of the hotel. Offering various ways to customers for booking rooms, and table s, and joint venturing with domestic attractions, tours, and restaurants of Singapore can also help the company in achieving strategic goals. High Capacity Utilization Raffles Hotel should focus more on effective as well as high capacity utilization by using good demand forecasting in the revenue management system, enhancing capacity conventionally, or pricing insistently. Since the fixed cost indicates a large percentage of overall costs structure, the company should also focus on managing variable costs and maintain high occupancy rate during the peak seasons for increasing sales volume. It will be beneficial for the company in competing in an effective manner with those competitors who posses similar size and ability but lesser occupancy. Moreover, during good as well as bad times, the management needs to focus more on revenue management in order to maintain the level of profit (Ajagunna, and Crick, 2014). It can be carried out easily by determining when to increase and decrease the price of services based on occupancy rate. If the demand for hotel seems to be difficult to increase, it can indulge in dynamic pricing strategies for sound inventor y management. Recommendations From the above discussion, it can be recommended that Raffles hotel should perform a situation analysis, competitors analysis and self-evaluation of both internal as well as the external environment to measure the effectiveness of the organizational strategy. The company should set the objective and concurrent with the strategies by which the organization will able to craft vision and mission, corporate objectives that will suggest the strategic plan to achieve the objective and reduce the problems that have been faced by Singapore tourism sector. In addition to this, the company should develop a strategy to reduce the cost of the operation that will affect the overall profitability of the company. It is recommended that company should reduce the turnover rate to increase the satisfaction level of the employee. Raffles hotel is an attraction point of the Singapore. Therefore, the company should make the strategy to reduce the negative effect on position and sustainability in the tourism sector. The company should maintain their modern customer that will help to increase the spending on the tourism and hospitality service. Conclusion From the above discussion, it can be concluded that Singapore is a remarkable country and it was provided great business opportunities with the help of strategic analysis. It can be said that Singapore tourist was a useful element in the countrys growth. The strategic analysis and success of the business in both domestic as well as international market were highly benefited by the flexible government policies of Singapore. In addition to this, it is concluded that the tourism sector is expanding day by day so that it will provide various opportunities to Raffles hotel to expand the business in new emerging markets. The Pestle analysis is used as a environmental scanning component of the strategic management in the tourism sector. It is identified that strategic analysis has been provided a clear view to the organization for their objectives, goals, and techniques to achieve the target. References Ajagunna, I. and Crick, A.P., (2014) Managing interactions in the tourism industrya strategic tool for success: Perspectives on Jamaica tourism industry,Worldwide Hospitality and Tourism Themes,6(2), pp.179-190. Bruni, A., Cassia, F. and Magno, F., (2017) Marketing performance measurement in hotels, travel agencies and tour operators: a study of current practices,Current Issues in Tourism,20(4), pp.339-345. Cadle, J., Paul, D., and Turner, P. (2010) Business Analysis Techniques: 72 Essential Tools for Success. UK: BCS, The Chartered Institute. Carlisle, S., Johansen, A. and Kunc, M., (2016) Strategic foresight for (coastal) urban tourism market complexity: The case of Bournemouth,Tourism Management,54, pp.81-95. Chang, T.C., (2016) Tourism Unbounded: Mobilities and Border Crossings in Singapore,Asian Journal of Tourism Research,1(1), pp.99-124. Gander, J. (2017) Strategic Analysis: A Creative and Cultural Industries Perspective. UK: Routledge. Grant, R.M. and Jordan, J.J. (2015) Foundations of Strategy. USA: John Wiley Sons. Hargreaves, C.A., (2015) Analysis of hotel guest satisfaction ratings and reviews: an application in Singapore,American Journal of Marketing Research,1(4), pp.208-214. Henderson, J.C., (2015) Destination development and transformation: 50 years of tourism after independence in Singapore,International Journal of Tourism Cities,1(4), pp.269-281. Henderson, J.C., (2016) Halal food, certification and halal tourism: Insights from Malaysia and Singapore,Tourism Management Perspectives,19, pp.160-164. Mennen, M. (2011) Strategic Analysis of the BBC. Germany: GRIN Verlag. Osterwalder, A., and Pigneur, Y. (2013) Business Model Generation: A Handbook for Visionaries, Game Changers, and Challengers. USA: John Wiley Sons. Purwomarwanto, Y.L. and Ramachandran, J., (2015) of tourism sector with regard to the global crisis-a comparative study between Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore,The Journal of Developing Areas,49(4), pp.325-339. Salvioni, D.M., (2016) Hotel Chains and the Sharing Economy in Global Tourism,Symphonya, (1), p.31.

Iroquois Culture free essay sample

The 6 nations included the Oneida, Cayuga, Tuscarawas,Mohawk, Seneca, and Onondaga. The Confederacy acted as an arbiter for the 6 nations. It was used in times when a nation couldnt resolve a dispute by themselves. The nations were able to aid each other in times Of war, making them a reckoning force to be dealt with. They were divided during the American Revolution, when two of the nations fought against the British and the others did not. The Iroquois had many sources of food. Three main crops were Corn, Beans, and, Squash. These plants help keep each other alive and growing well. The beans were able to grow up the corn, while also keeping the corn from falling. The squash helped keep predators away from the fields. The Iroquois had many reasons for growing these foods. They believed that these plants were a gift from the Great Spirit and were worshiped. We will write a custom essay sample on Iroquois Culture or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page They also had many benefits for the Iroquois diet. The corn had many carbohydrates, the squash was filled with vitamins, and beans provided protein. Without these sources of food, the Iroquois wouldnt have been able to survive as well as they did. The architecture that the Iroquois had was made well and had many uses.Mainly, they built different kinds of longhouses. They were roughly 15 feet tall and 20 feet wide. There was no average length, some of them being as long as 150 feet. They slept and ate in these longhouses. They made storage chests out of bark, and were below their beds. They slept on corncobs mats and used pelts as blankets. A symbol was carved above the door to show what clan lived in that specific longhouse. Family was a big part of Iroquois life. The Iroquois thrived in their land. Their food and shelter played a major part in their survival as a culture.

From Unity to Diversity Essays

From Unity to Diversity Essays From Unity to Diversity Essay From Unity to Diversity Essay Diane Larsen-Freeman The way to teach in 1965 is not acceptable in 1987, there are three points that can be represented in a triangle for a better comprehension in the methodology used in 1987, each angle of the transgressions a basic area of the field. Language Learning/Language Learner The prevailing view of the language-learning process in 1962 was that learning was achieved through habit formation. The native language was seen to comprise habits that a second-language learner must overcome. Challenging this characterization of he learning process was NOAA Chomsky that argued that language acquisition could not take through habit formation because language was far too complicated to be learned in such a manner, especially given the brief time available. What is especially significant for us was the learning acquiring English as a second or foreign language were found to be committing the same sort of personalization errors as the children. One cannot fall to note that believing language solution as a process of rule formation had tremendous Implication for the role of learners. We see that In 987 learners are seen to be the bears of responsibility for how much learning take place. What changes since Chomsky first propose it, however, is the view that language learning is solely a process of rule formation. The researches like Hatch, while again not denying that grammatical competence Is achieved through linguistic hypothesis testing, nevertheless believe that nonlinguistic processes may be critical to the learner s success In this endeavor. : Hatch specifically discusses the value of native-speaker / nonnative-speaker interaction in which the native speaker adjusts the level of speech to accommodate he nonnative speakers comprehension. We will return to our considerations of learning and the learner when we discuss the impact of these views on language pedagogy. Language/Culture Syllabus design Influenced by structural linguistic, in 1962 language was seen as consisting of hierarchically organized strata, each dealing with a different linguistic structure. Homes, morphemes, and syntactic patterns Syllabi for a languorously were organize around linguistic structures carefully graded In a sequence from simple to likely work on sentence patterns with the BE verb early on, followed a few lessons eater by yes-no question, followed by short answers. The structural, the notional- functional, and the semantic-based syllabi nicely illustrate the fact that language consists of three interacting dimensions: form, function, and meani ng. Many other syllabus types exist these days, of course. One particularly interesting approach is the procedural syllabus, which does not take language as its basis at all. Instead, students learn language through the performance of certain tasks and activities. The grammar is the means through Which linguistic creativity is ultimately achieved and inadequate knowledge of the grammar would lead to a serious limitation on the capacity for communication. Another syllabus, one that has had impact on the teaching SSL in the United States, is competency-based. This type of syllabus has been developed to each survival skills to refuges who are newly arrived immigrants to the United States. The behavioral outcomes of competency-based instruction are specific survival skills. One final language related development that we should not fail to mention is the expanded view of language to injudiciousness or the structure that exists beyond the sentence level. English for special purposes. Another major trend having to do with language during these past 25 years is the teaching of English for Special Purposes (ESP.). Although all language use has a purpose, teachers of ESP. teach only the English requisite for a particular purpose, be it an occupation or a domain. Thus curriculum designers of ESP. courses conduct rigorous needs analyses, analyzing the situation in which students will likely find themselves and carefully selecting the English necessary for students to meet the language demands of these restricted domains. Content-based approach. Content-based approaches see language as a mean of achieving something else and not as and end in itself, in those approaches the learning of language is integrally linked with the learning of some other subject matter. Although various models exist in this approach, some containing explicit instruction in the target language, the assumption is that both the subject matter and the language can be learned together when De students focus is on acquiring subject-matter information. Other models that share this assumption are those providing sheltered English and those that follow the adjunct model. Sheltered English classes are employed to teach English and subject content using specially modified curricula and materials. Culture The second angle of our triangle embraces both language and culture. Many language teachers acknowledge the need to integrate the two; yet I think it is fair to say that there really is no well-articulated theory of culture that has informed our field during the last 25 years and hence that the means of teaching culture to language students have not been well developed. It is true that many texts contain vulture information in the form of cultural capsules. But knowing a culture involves so much more the transmission of information these cultural notes allow. Many applied linguistics who hold thud perspective value the pluralism that exists in the English-speaking world and feel that one can be bilingual without being bacterial, that one can and should learn English for utilitarian purposes without adopting the dominant target culture. Language Teaching/Teacher This article began with our visit to a class in Which the Audio-lingual Method (ALMA) was is still being practiced. However, it is also true that the ALMA fell into disavow in many irises in the sass. His was due in part to the refutation of the habit-formation theory of language acquisition and in part to the fact that both teachers and students often found the required repetition boring and motivating. Silent way. The emphasis on human cognition inspired by the Chomsky revolution led to a new general approach to language teaching termed cognitive code. Rather tan simply being responsible to stimuli in the environment, learners were seen to be much more actively involved in their own learning. Although Caleb Gadgets Silent Way did not involve directly from the cognitive-code approach, its principles are consisted with it. For example, one of the basic tenets of the Silent Way is the subordination of thieving to learning this principle is in accord to the active role ascribed to the learner in the cognitive-code approach. Another distinguish feature is that the teacher helps students to develop a way to learn on their own. By giving students only what they absolutely need by assisting them to develop their own inner criteria, and by remaining silent move of the time, the teacher tries to help students to come self-reliant and increasingly independent of the teacher. Suggestive George Alizarin the originator of Suggestive believes that language learning can be made more efficient than what usually occurs. Teachers can help learners to surmount these barriers and to fully tap their mental powers, by destining the learners self-imposed limitations. This can be done trough the teachers direct and indirect positive suggestion in an environment that is relaxing and therefore conducive to learning. Counseling-learning/community language learning In Curran s Counseling Learning/Community Language Learning method, teachers understand and accept their students fears and concerns. In addition, teachers try to provide a secure learning environment in which a sense of community is fostered. In such an atmosphere, students can be indecisive and their positive energies can be channeled towards the language-learning task. Another way of putting this is toss ay the syllabus is learner-generated. Comprehension Approach Comprehension Approach also acknowledge insecurities have an adverse effect on language acquisition. As a consequence practitioners of this approach do not put students on the stop by having them speak in the target language. The teacher insures that the language that child uses is comprehensible to the students, Just as parents modify the speech they use with their children. Communicative Approach. Communicative Approach assert that students motivation will be enhanced feel that they working on communicative skills. By interacting with their teacher and fellow students, students receive practice in activating this knowledge in negotiating meaning. The soaker receive feedback from the listener on what the listener has understood. Principled eclectics. None of the methods have dominated language-teaching practice to the same extent as the ALMA once did. Moreover, it is rare that one of these methods is practiced exclusively. It is not uncommon for teachers today to practice a principled eclecticism, combining techniques and principles from various methods in a carefully reasoned manner. Goal. The goal of many language teachers today is to operate their students to students how to learn. Process. Learning is seen to be natural, gradual process, through which students progress at their own rates. At first it is to expected that the students will speak or write imperfect English. The necessary practice is thought to be most successful when students are engaged in the meaningful exchange of information, rather than repeating a teachers model. Learners are thus encouraged to be creative and communicative with the language, often doing so in small-group activities, in which they can practice communication and learn from one another. One specific technique connected to the process approach to writing is personal Journal-keeping, in Which students engage in a written Exchange with their teachers. Assessment Procedures Teacher needs the information that informal, ongoing assessment gives to know whether or not lesson, and therefore course, objectives are being achieved. Indeed, when formal evaluation measures are used, they should be designed to be consistent with objectives and therefore what has been taught. Evaluation measures consistent with a communicative approach to teaching will measure how students use English, not what they know about it. Roles The general pattern in modern-day methodology is for the teaching to be learner- centered. I mean that is the teacher who serves as a guide in the learning process, UT it is the learners who assume some responsibility for the direction of the learning and who bear ultimate responsibility for how much learning takes place. Language teaching today is humanistic. There are many definitions of this term, but in this context I mean that teachers are cognizant of the need to take their students affective needs into consideration. It is recognized that students feelings and attitudes can promote or deter language learning. Subject matter The language that is presented to the students should be meaningful and conceptualized. Students should not be asked to Just manipulate linguistic forms. Students should learn to use English accurately; however, they should also be able to use the language appropriate to a given social context. Students need practice in activating their knowledge of vocabulary, structures and language functions. The language syllabi are sometimes built around language structures sometimes functions, and sometimes topics and situations. Domestics syllabus is set in advance; other times it evolves at the course proceeds either on the basis of the teachers Judgment about what to work on next or on the basis of a learner-generated sequence. Sometimes the syllabus is more tasks-oriented than it is language- oriented. CIA will not doubt play an increasingly important role in methodology as the equipment decreases in costs and therefore becomes more accessible and as the viable software matures to a point where computers full interactive potential can be exploited. Conclusion The science of language teaching has boot retched De point of being able to consistently demonstrate the superiority of one methodology over another for all teachers and all crudeness and all settings And perhaps it never will. For teaching is a combination of science and art.

Moments of Truth in customer service Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Moments of Truth in customer service - Essay Example Without customers, there is no business to speak of. Carlzon’s impressive marketing approach effectively brought out the company out of the red, from an $8 million loss in 1981 to a staggering $71 million profit in less than a year. More than taking risks in terms of grand expenditure for such a move, what really worked in this strategy was adopting a change internally instead of externally putting up a more sophisticated faà §ade.Carlzon realized the need to shift from an inward, production-oriented airline to a more customer-driven and service oriented company. People need more humanized service instead of a more technologically advanced aircraft to ride on. Carlton’s team closed gaps in customer service that caused the company to lose revenue from the customer’s defection to other airlines or from simply losing the trust and confidence of their customers. Gronroos (2001) identified common gaps between customer expectations and the perceptions of the actual se rvice delivery as management perception gap; translation gap in quality specs; service delivery gap, gaps in â€Å"promises† made in marketing; and overall gap between perceived service and expected service.In each gap, customer satisfaction hangs on a thread and if not filled immediately, the company stands to lose the customer who has the power to spread the word of his or her dissatisfaction to others who could be prospective customers.Moments of truth usually occur within encounters between customers and company staff. Thus, each member of the company should be thoroughly trained in the provision of quality customer service. Empowering the staff with the trust that they can use their better judgment in satisfying customers, they must be authorized with decision-making powers under various moment of truth situations with customers. Having knowledgeable, courteous and happy staff brings about happy and satisfied customers. These customers know that they are in good hands an d with efficient staff who are able to provide them with their needs, it is likely that their satisfaction will bring in more business. To take the advise of Nilsson, the person responsible for the resurrection of Scandic Hotels, decision-making power should be shared with sales and service-front-line workers â€Å"right at the customer level† (Goodman, 2000). Nilsson recommends a decentralized management

Organizations and Behavior Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Organizations and Behavior - Essay Example However dealing with how organizations behave, it is necessary to see how the concept of leadership is in an organization. Leadership is all about the needs of the individuals of an organization. Leadership styles are mostly related to the situation in hand. They are used by considering the requirements of people involved and the particular challenges that the organization is facing. There are apparently six different leadership styles or approaches (Kotter and Cohen, 2002, p124). The first one is Visionary. This style is needed when an organization is looking for a new direction and its aim is to move people towards a new goal. Second one is coaching. This style deals with the development of individuals and showing how they can improve their performance and connects their aims to the aims of the organization. Coaching is best for organizations in which the workers who are initiative and want more professional development (Hatch, 2006, p19). Thirdly there is the Affiliate style. This style talks about team work and how a good connection between groups is important. This approach is important in improving and increasing team harmony and morale and improving communication or repairing any type of broken trusts within an organization. However too much praise can lead to poor performance as well. The fourth one is the Democratic style. This style deals with people’s knowledge and skills and introduces a commitment towards goals. However this style will fail in times of crises and in times of urgent decisions. The fifth style is Pacesetting. This style deals with the high standards of performance. The leaders want a perfect work and better and faster things. This style fails in if used too much hence it should be used sparingly. The final and sixth style is Commanding style. This style is also known as the military model. This is the most often used one but the least effective though. It deals with less praise and more criticism; it

Issues of Trust Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Issues of Trust - Essay Example By developing effective pedagogical strategic plan of fully engagement of culturally diversified parents towards the learning process, which avoids any events that can be interpreted as discrimination of the low-income CLD families. I will foster collaborative decision-making, which is made hard by less active parents in the school by involving parents, family and the community will ensure that all students’ needs are met without racial, culture, and level of income discrimination. The focus of the engagement is to enhance collaboration and testing the response from different cultures in my school, which will help in coming up with universal goals towards representing students from diverse backgrounds. Promoting more effective and efficient federal policies guarantees equal opportunities for all CLD families irrespective of their race, gender, culture, or socio-economic status; hence, this is a practice that I will engage in to provide a culturally responsible teaching environment. The policies will be published after gathering extensive information from all families including low-income CLD families, which will enhance the accomplishment of a collaborative governance of the teaching process free from criticism. The policies have to address all differences that arise from CLD families, stipulating considerations of the special attention required by the low-income families, which ensures that all students receive quality service. This is to ensure that what I offer in the curriculum would be my move to ensure that I foster a strong nous of a culturally responsive learning environment for culturally and linguistically diversified students. This is a practice that I believe plays an important role in enhancing collaborative ties in a school despite the cultural differences. I will put measures to promote consistent communication ensures that students develop self-empowerment regardless of their cultural

A market analysis of the McDonalds corporation

A market analysis of the McDonalds corporation McDonalds is a popularly known Market Leader in the Fast food Industry or better known as the Burger Industry. Started in the year 1948, it has managed to emerge triumphant in spite of a number of companies entering the industry. The company has successfully established a popular brand image. In fact the growth of fast food has been named after the organization as McDonaldization. Marketing involves identifying what customers demand and striving towards meeting their demands. Marketing Audit involves analyzing the companys various aspects and evaluating the companys marketing strategy. It involves in bringing out the pitfalls in the organizations functioning. The following pages contain the analysis of McDonalds Corporation. We have researched the various facets of the organization functioning as to how well they have managed to reach customers. There has been an analysis of the industry aspects like the customers, competitors and the suppliers. Also the Macro Environmental analysis along with the SWOT has been performed. We have analyzed the current Marketing techniques. On analyzing the current situation of the company and the market in the fast food industry we have provided some recommendations which might prove to be useful for the organization on its successful implementation. Introduction The statistics figures show that the global fast food market reached a value of $102.7 billion in 2006, growing by 4.8%. Meanwhile, analysts forecast that in 2011, the global fast food market will have a value of $125.4 billion, an increase of 22.2% since 2006 (Fast Food: Global Industry Guide, n. d.). McDonalds is the worlds leading company in the fast food industry. It has more than 30,000 restaurants in more than 100 countries serving millions people around the global. The companys success was as a result of the policy they follow, known as the Q.S.C. V. (Quality food; Fast, Friendly Service; Restaurant Cleanliness; and a menu that provides Value). The company was first started as a drive-in restaurant in San Bernardino by the two brothers Mac and Dick McDonalds in the year 1948. It was later bought by Ray Kroc, who was their franchising agent in 1961 and opened his first McDonalds in Illinois. The companys menu initially consisted of Hamburgers, Cheeseburgers, French Fries, Sodas, Milkshakes, milk and coffee, although it has grown considerably since. The company follows a unique business model described as the three legged stool wherein the three legs are the owners/operators, suppliers and Company employees. It is an organization that develops, operates, franchises and services a worldwide system of restaurants that prepare, assemble, package and sell a limited menu of quickly prepared, moderately priced food. McDonalds has pioneered food quality specifications, marketing and training programs, and operational and supply systems, all of which are considered the standards of the industry throughout the world. Marketing Mix Every business organization must develop an effective marketing strategy. The 7 Ps is used to continually evaluate and re evaluate business activities. The seven Ps are product, price, promotion, place, packaging, positioning, and people. The 7 Ps are used to ensure that the company is on track and achieve maximum results. Product Predominantly sells Hamburgers and cheeseburgers which forms the part of the standard menu worldwide Also sells various types of chicken sandwiches and products, French fries, soft drinks, breakfasts, and desserts. They sell a variety of products during limited promotional time periods. The company tests new products on an ongoing basis. Example: Chicken Nuggets in the year 1983 DIRECTION People Focuses on Friendly and Prompt service which helps them to maintain their reputation Employees have a standard uniform. Statistics of staff composition Restaurant staffRestaurant managementOffice staffFranchisees staff44,000300050025,000They have high recruitment standards, employ local staff and proper training. PATH Process Manufacturing process is transparent and visible to customers. Customers are invited to check the ingredients used in the food. Maintain high quality control standards. Use of innovative ideas and having latest technologies installed. Drive through facility Price Have Specials, two dollar burgers Competitors find it difficult to follow Generally use a value-based approach to pricing, Aim at giving consumers the best value for money Promotions Best methods to maintain high awareness and promote their image Advertising through Billboards, Television, Radio etc. Sponsorships like Ronald House and local Basketball Sales Promotion, Examples: Two dollar burger, Happy Meal Direct Marketing through Birthday and Clubs Publicity Place Placed extensively and easily accessible Have Drive through where customers can pick up food Mc Delivery offers options for home delivery Holds a different place in the consumers mind Fun place for children Physical Evidence Means looking for aspects customer uses to assess a product and evaluate its position High quality standards are maintained Emphasizes on clean and hygienic interiors of its outlets High importance to the appearance of the staff and the service provided. ACTION Current Marketing Strategy McDonalds as a world Market Leader has certain goals which it strives to achieve 100% customer satisfaction, increase its market share and optimize profitability by reducing costs. On analyzing the companys marketing position, the following are a part of the current strategy in order to reach its customers: Healthier foods To handle the change of trend towards healthier food this McDonalds have changed the way the food is prepared. It makes sure that 100% vegetable oil is used, low fat milk is used for milkshakes and the amount of sodium has been cut down. Food Quality and Nutrition The quality and safety of food items are of paramount importance in McDonalds. This is achieved through strict product standards, strict enforcement of operating procedures and work in close relationship with the suppliers. Larger Menus McDonalds aims at achieving the other important expectation from the consumers (want for choice). To this McDonalds reacted by introducing the breakfast menu with a variety of food products. Apart from this they have also introduced a lot of other products. Restaurant Diversity The restaurants in each location are customized and their menus are according to the needs and demands of the customers in the location, the food on the menu would conform to the regional and ethnic tastes. Brand Positioning McDonalds Brand positioning is mainly carried out through sponsorship of events and sports. It sponsors events like Domes community programme and learning experience and Child Safety Week. Industry Analysis Industry analysis of an organization involves the analysis in the following categories: Customer Analysis This refers to buyer force. The buyer has a great deal of selecting power due to the fact that if they are dissatisfied with the food or service they can easily switch or purchase from an alternate product. But it is undeniable that any organization cannot satisfy the needs of all the consumers. Therefore organization divides the market into segments which display similar characteristics or behavior is necessary. McDonalds market segmentation is based on demographic variables Age and Lifestyle. The primary target markets are seniors, adults and teenagers, but the most heavily targeted segment is children. The market segmentation of McDonalds can be visualized as follows: Market Segments Seniors Adults Teenagers Children Customers are those who pay money to acquire an organizations goods or services. For many years McDonalds mostly targeted the young people, however this has changed in this decade; McDonalds has turned towards a more general market. By doing this McDonalds concentrates on the family, targeting a diverse market Competitor Analysis It was said that the Fast Food industry is highly competitive (Data Warehousing Case Study: Fast Food, n. d.). McDonalds major Competitors include that Burger King, Taco Bell, Subway, and Panera Bread. Especially, KFC, which offers chicken nuggets and fries on its menu, operates over an 11000 restaurants in more than 80 countries. Fast food, especially fries, hamburger and so on, are thought as garbage-food because of high-calorie. There are high possibilities of healthy substitutes posing a threat to these companies. Of course, McDonalds is concentrating on the health side by introduction of healthy food items in the menu. The following are the findings of the competitive position of McDonalds based on the Porters five forces: Rivalry: This involves how the company differentiates itself from its competitors. In case of McDonalds, as discussed above the major rivals are Burger King, KFC and Wendys. Though McDonalds is the Market Leader currently, with the capacity of the rivals growing the competition seems intense. The rivals are trying to increase their sales by concentrating on the health factors. New Entrants: With so many popular fast food companies in the industry new entrants are not much if a threat when seen globally. McDonalds has an edge over its competitors as it is globally spread. Buyers: With reasonable prices and quick service provided by McDonalds, there is less scope for customers to move to competitors for the products. With the introduction of the wireless facility in the some of the outlets has added to the attraction. Suppliers: Except for the cold drink from Coca Cola, the company does not have a single supplier at a global level. For meat it has its own farm and other raw materials are from local store Substitutes: There are high possibilities of healthy substitutes posing a threat to the company. Though McDonalds is concentrating on the health side by introduction of healthy food items in the menu, it might still be posed with the challenge of substitutes. Supplier Analysis Supplier is an organization that provides resources for other organizations. In McDonalds three legged stool philosophy the third leg is supplier partners. McDonalds has practiced a backward vertical integration, by replacing most of its suppliers. It has done so for two reasons, To reduce costs, and To ensure that its products are of top quality. These supplies include beef and milk to be used in its products, which it gets from its farms. Other suppliers include local grocery stores that supply McDonalds with fresh vegetables. Soft drinks are supplied exclusively by Coca-Cola, which is also its ally. McDonalds supplies also include raw material such as flour, sugar, yeast, etc. . MACRO ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS Companies always operate in a larger macro environment of forces and trends that shape opportunities and post threats. These forces represent non-controllable forces, which the company must monitor and respond to. In most cases, we identify macro environmental factors by an acronym, PESTEL. P: Political System of the country. E : Economical Factors S : Social / Cultural factors T : Technological factors E : Ecological factors L : Legal factors POLITICAL FACTORS McDonalds employees and job applicants are selected, trained, promoted and treated on the basis of their relevant skills, talents and performance and without reference to race, color, nationality, ethnic origin, gender, marital status or disability. In support of this, McDonalds also has a policy on Sexual and Racial Harassment. All McDonalds restaurants work to standards which meet the highest best practice guidelines for Building and Health and Safety regulations. ENVIRONMENTAL / ECOLOGICAL FACTORS McDonalds is analyzing every aspect of its business in terms of its impact on the environment and is committed to waste minimization with a target of a 50% volume reduction. McDonalds works only in partnership with suppliers with sound environmental practices. It also has a manager responsible for environmental affairs. A revolutionary new static waste compactor is now in 60 restaurants, which reduces waste volumes by an average of 40-50%. McDonalds is committed to using recycled materials wherever possible in its packaging and business in general. Waste oil makes up 10% of a restaurants waste and is recycled via local collectors at regional refineries, into animal feedstock and other by products. In April 1988, McDonalds switched to non-CFC foam packaging which carries the CFC-Free message. McDonalds is playing an active role in global efforts to develop more environmentally friendly refrigerants. SOCIO- CULTURAL FACTORS McDonalds feels that it address public concern regarding nutrition through a combination of stringent product standards, strictly enforced restaurant operating procedures, and close working relationships with suppliers to assure that McDonalds food is safe and of the highest quality. It also discloses nutritional and ingredient information regarding its menu items through in-store posters and brochures distributed upon request. In the early 1990s, international expansion into new cultures and corresponding eating habits resulted in new product introductions in several locations. McDonalds new items generally receive no advertising and little sales promotion during the test period. TECHNOLOGICAL FACTORS McDonalds corporation has built a whole range of systems such as intranets, wireless applications or innovative kiosk systems, all based on Days Commu ­niquà ©. In their most recent initiative, the company migrated their global internet presence mcdonalds.com to our platform. An important component of McDonalds operational strategy is to anticipate customer traffic patterns and food selection based on a detailed analysis of sales history and trends. Restaurants use this information to prepare menu items in the right quantities and at the right times to have the food ready for customers when they arrive. To ensure freshness, all food not served within 10 minutes must be discarded. ECONOMIC FACTORS During the late 1990s and the beginning of the new millennium, McDonalds found itself in a regression, the first one since its conception in 1955. The Gold Arches werent shining like they once did, however there are in the process of being polished, figuratively speaking. In 2003 McDonalds ranked eighth out of 100 brands in the Global Brand Scoreboard assembled by Interbrand Corporation and Business Week, proving that McDonalds is one of the worlds best known and most valuable brands. However, that wasnt the case during 2001 and 2002. LEGAL FACTORS The legal framework includes that any company in the Food and Beverages industry must not transport commodities that are hazardous to life and property or that are contraband in nature. Example: illegal drugs and unlicensed arms and ammunition. McDonalds serves 100% beef, 100% chicken, and Grade A eggs. McDonalds food comes only from certified suppliers who are audited and inspected on a regular basis. More than 2,000 safety, quality and inspection checks surround McDonalds food as it moves from the farms to our restaurants. McDonalds requires that 72 safety protocols are conducted every single day in McDonalds restaurants. McDonaldss Strengths Weaknesses Opportunities and Threats Strong Player Global Existence and Massive Size Strong Brand Marketing Outlets easily accessible Consistency and Fast Service Weak Product Differentiation Slowed Revenue and income growth Mature Industry Strength of competition More health conscious consumers International Expansion Only serving 1% of worlds population Growing dining-out market Strengths McDonald is a strong player in international market with his competitors hardly half the business. Global existence and massive size allows him more diversification in food menu. Exceptionally strong brand recognition and aggressive marketing. A strong real estate selection makes its outlets located in the areas which are easily accessible It has the consistency in his fast food supply and success of its food items Weaknesses Lack of product differentiation. The competitors also brought about the development of similar products. Too many competitors entering the market which reduces the companys ability to increase revenue and also leads to slow income growth. Opportunities More international expansion, as it still required penetrating in many countries especially in Asia, Europe and Latin America covering only 1% of world population There has been an increase in the number of people who dine out, thus paving way for growth Threats Market saturation leaving less scope for expansion and revenue generation. Competitors are quite strong and gaining good market share with new innovations. More people are getting health conscious and switching to different eating habits. Findings and Implications Domination of the industry McDonalds Corporation services the worlds largest chain of fast food outlets and has established as a Market Leaders. It has a market share of around 7.7% in the quick service industry in the United States. It holds a market of 43.1% in the burger segment. But it may need to grow in the non-burger fast food market. Growth As far as domestic market is considered there has the growth has slowed down. The companys revenue grew by 9% to record a $21.6 Billion. The comparable sales of the organization increased to about 5.7% from the year 2005 and the system wide sales increased to 7%. Income from continuing operations per common share was $2.30 with $2.03 in 2005. The following is a five year analysis of the number of McDonalds UK retail outlets and their pre-tax profits: 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 No of restaurants 836 928 1016 1117 1184 Pre-tax profit ( £m) 100.2 82.3 127.9 137.5 141.4 The Growth of Mc Donalds in terms of restaurants can be viewed as below: International Sector McDonalds has expanded to many countries throughout the world. It has opened 744 restaurants in 2006, ending the year with more than 31000 outlets worldwide. The company has clearly demonstrated extensive and impressive growth by expanding into markets across the globe, increasing penetration into the existing markets and stretching its product range to include exciting breakfasts. It is often conceived that McDonalds is approaching the end of its extended growth phase. But with increasing population throughout the world, assuming people consume three meals a day, it serves around 1% meal a share position that provides possibilities for plenty of growth within the industry. Competition is however aggressively snapping at the base of golden arches. A new genre of restaurants seems to have emerged in the market, dubbed as the fast casual. They are offering consumers fresher, healthier and more variety of food in a more inviting ambience. Recommendations Prospects for growth Strategy High Market Share Mature Markets Market leader in one product market Maintaining Market Share Substitutes entering the market Maintaining Dominance in the market Increase of Market size Innovative redefinition of existing markets. Expand into related product market Maintaining good relationship with customers and suppliers. If high prospects for growth then entry into substitute market Buying some of the emerging firms in order to reduce competition through expansion. McDonalds is the company with the highest market share in the Fast food industry. In order to expand and grow further it is necessary for the organization to expand the market itself. This can be done by the introduction of innovative food items in the menu in order to attract all kinds of consumers. Without innovation expanding the market size might prove advantageous to the competitors too. Mature markets can be handled by redefining the existing markets in a way that from redefining new markets are created in order to expand. In order to redefine the market they can introduce jumbo sized burger and sandwiches at reasonable price which is sure to attract more customers from all categories and hence expands the market. Since McDonalds is a Market Leader in the Fast food industry, it can continue with the expansion into other related industries. Like McCafe in the coffee industry, it can expand into another field like having their own drinks produced and manufacturing. In order to maintain its current market share it should continue to maintain good relationship with customers and suppliers by ensuring more quality to its consumers When there is a threat of healthier substitutes entering the market, McDonalds can also enter into the substitute market if it has prospects for growth and it is developing in its early stages which will avoid McDonalds from facing threats. The major substitutes McDonalds have are the healthier ones. In order to face the threat from substitutes, McDonalds can make their menu healthier, they can have a low fat menu items with sandwiches, wraps and burgers that are healthier In order for McDonalds to maintain its market dominance, it can buy small but emerging firms in the industry so that the competitors reduce in number. ANSOFFS PRODUCT EXPANSION GRID PRODUCTS CURRENT NEW M A R K E T S CURRENT Market Penetration Strategies Current Products: Big Mac, Grilled Chicken Foldovers, Beverages, French Fries etc. Current Market: Students, Working Professionals, families. Collaboration with institutes, universities Opening outlets at campuses, easily accessible places, commercial areas Investments on advertisements, vouchers, coupons etc Product Development Strategies Introducing Vegetables food Healthy and Nutritious products, e.g. Brown bread instead of white one. Successful product launches in U.S. included Premium Roast Coffee, the Asian Salad and snack wrap. Combination of continental food with local food at affordable price NEW Market Development Strategies Entering into more developing countries Offering franchise in new market More Advertisement and promotion Inaugural discounts Providing membership cards Buying some emerging firms Diversification Strategies New restaurants offering various cuisines Cake shops, bakery items Improving distribution or delivery service. The Ansoffs Matrix depicts the Market expansion strategy for McDonalds. Conclusion The extensive research of McDonalds Corporation has been pursued. The company being the major player in the fast food industry has a competitive edge over the others within the industry. It has created great popularity amongst its customers especially amongst the kids who are McDonalds key target customers. The company does face a threat of expanding in the mature market and taking over by the competitors which has been highlighted. It has several key strategies which if maintained will continue to stay as the leader in the fast food industry. The key points being its quick and fast service, quality food, easily accessible and fair pricing of the food items. The Health factor towards which the trend is moving is to be considered by the organization which will be added advantage to its growth and expansion.

General Ulysses S. Grant :: essays research papers

Not long after fighting had begun in the Civil War, Ulysses S. Grant went back into battle and enlisted in the army. Grant was a great military leader. He combined tactics that were taught to him at West Point with his own knowledge and with what he picked up on from the Mexican War, where he was under the command of Zachary Taylor and Winfield Scott. Grant proved his leadership and strategy when he captured Fort Donelson in Tennessee. This was the first major victory for the Union. This was where Grant said a famous line when the confederate general Simon B. Buckner requested an armistice. General Grant’s answer to this was â€Å"Yours of this date proposing Armistice, and appointment of Commissioners, to settle terms of Capitulation is just received. No terms except an unconditional and immediate surrender can be accepted. I propose to move immediately upon your works.† This is where he gets his nickname Unconditional Surrender Grant. And as a result of this victory, Grant is promoted to Major General. Another important victory for Grant was his victory at Vicksburg. This battle was the deciding factor for the Union taking control of the Mississippi River, which would cut the Confederacy in half. Grant had succeeded in starving out the Confederates in order to capture the city. Grant demanded unconditional surrender from the Confederate commander, Simon Bolivar Buckner. This along with the victory at Gettysburg marks the turning point of the war. Not to long after this, Grant is promoted to Lieutenant General, giving him complete power over all armies. This is when Grant launches his new campaign of Total war, where he is not only at war with the Confederate soldiers, but also with civilians who are helping out the Confederates. He sends General Sherman on his famous march to the sea, where Sherman and his troops burn everything in their path. While this was going on, Grant was attacking Lee’s army, just battle after battle, because Lee had no reserves to replace men who have died, but the Union had many civilians in their reserve.

Ethical Leadership in Organizations Essay

Ethical leadership is leadership that is involved in leading in a manner that respects the rights and dignity of others. As leaders are by nature in a position of social power, ethical leadership focuses on how leaders use their social power in the decisions they make, actions they engage in and ways they influence others. Leaders who are ethical demonstrate a level of integrity that is important for stimulating a sense of leader trustworthiness, which is important for followers to accept the vision of the leader. Leaders who are ethical are people-oriented, and also aware of how their decisions impact others, and use their social power to serve the greater good instead of self-serving interests. Motivating followers to put the needs or interests of the group ahead of their own is another quality of ethical leaders. Motivating involves engaging others in an intellectual and emotional commitment between leaders and followers that makes both parties equally responsible in the pursuit of a common goal. Ethical leadership falls within the nexus of inspiring, stimulating, and visionary leader behaviours that make up transformational and charismatic leadership. Ethical leaders assist followers in gaining a sense of personal competence that allows them to be self-sufficient by encouraging and empowering them. What is Ethical Leadership? One typical response to the â€Å"ethics crisis† in business is a clarion call for more â€Å"ethical leadership,† yet there are few explanations of what exactly is meant by the term. Many executives and business thinkers believe that ethical leadership is simply a matter of leaders having good character. By having â€Å"the right values† or being a person of â€Å"strong character,† the ethical leader can set the example for others and withstand any temptations that may occur along the way. Without denying the importance of good character and the right values, the reality of ethical leadership is far more complex and the stakes are much higher. Over the past 25 years, in talking to executives in a number of industries about the problems of how to lead in a world of great change—globalization, democratization, and incredible technological advances—we have identified a number of touchstones for the idea of â€Å"ethical leadership.† Our experience is often contrary to the picture of business executives one finds in public discussion where they are often seen as greedy, competitive, and only concerned with compensation. In fact most executives want to be effective in their jobs and to leave their companies and the world a better place, creating value on both fronts for those whose lives they affect. Our view of ethical leadership takes into account not only the leader but also his constituents (followers and key stakeholders), the context or situation that the leader and constituents face, the leader’s processes and skills, and the outcomes that result. Leaders are first and foremost members of their own organizations and stakeholder groups. As such, their purpose, vision, and values are for the benefit of the entire organization and its key stakeholders. â€Å"Leaders see their constituents as not just followers, but rather as stakeholders striving to achieve that same common purpose, vision, and values. These follower and stakeholder constituents have their own individuality and autonomy which must be respected to maintain a moral community.† Ethical leaders embody the purpose, vision, and values of the organization and of the constituents, within an understanding of ethical ideals. They connect the goals of the organization with that of the internal employees and external stakeholders. Leaders work to create an open, two-way conversation, thereby maintaining a charitable understanding of different views, values, and constituents’ opinions. They are open to others’ opinions and ideas because they know those ideas make the organization they are leading better. Characteristics of Ethical Leaders In today’s turbulent world, ethics and values are present at a number of levels for executives and managers—leaders who devote their time and energy to leading the process of value creation. This broader concept of ethical leadership empowers leaders to incorporate and be explicit about their own values and ethics. The following list provides a framework for developing ethical leadership. It is based on the observations of and conversations with a host of executives and students over the past 25 years, and on readings of both popular and scholarly business literature. Written from the perspective of the leader, these ten facets of ethical leaders offer a way to understand ethical leadership that is more complex and more useful than just a matter of â€Å"good character and values.† â€Å"It is important for leaders to tell a compelling and morally rich story, but ethical leaders must also embody and live the story. This is a difficult task in today’s business environment where everyone lives in a fishbowl—on public display. So many political leaders fail to embody the high-minded stories they tell at election time, and more recently, business leaders have become the focus of similar criticism through the revelations of numerous scandals and bad behaviours. CEOs in today’s corporations are really ethical role models for all of society.† 1. Articulate and embody the purpose and values of the organization. Following a series of unethical activities by Citigroup employees in Japan in 2004, new CEO Chuck Prince fired several executives, publicly accepted responsibility and bowed apologetically to Japanese officials. Not only did Prince’s message resonate within Japan, but it also signalled a new era of â€Å"shared responsibility† within the culture of Citigroup where every employee was expected to take ownership for their decisions that affected the enterprise. 2. Focus on organizational success rather than on personal ego. Ethical leaders understand their place within the larger network of constituents and stakeholders. It is not about the leader as an individual, it is about something bigger—the goals and dreams of the organization. Ethical leaders also recognize that value is in the success of people in the organization. In 1998, in a bold gesture demonstrating how he valued the company’s line employees, Roger Enrico, former Chairman and CEO of PepsiCo, chose to forego all but $1 of his salary, requesting that PepsiCo, in turn, contribute $1 million to a scholarship fund for employees’ children. In a similar manner, the founders of JetBlue began a process of matching, from their salaries, employee donations to a charity. Today, their entire salaries go to the JetBlue Crewmember Catastrophic Plan charity, to assist staff with crises not covered by insurance. The point of these examples is not that ethical leaders donate their salaries to charities, but rather that ethical leaders identify and act on levers, such as employee loyalty, that drive organizational success. 3. Find the best people and develop them. This task is fairly standard in different models of leadership. Ethical leaders pay special attention to finding and developing the best people precisely because they see it as a moral imperative—helping them to lead better lives that create more value for themselves and for others. Finding the best people involves taking ethics and character into account in the selection process. â€Å"Ethical leaders pay special attention to finding and developing the best people† Many CEOs have said to us that judging someone’s integrity is far more important than evaluating their experience and skills. Yet, in many organizations, employees are hired to fill a particular skill need with little regard to issues of integrity. 4. Create a living conversation about ethics, values and the creation of value for stakeholders. Too often business executives think that having a laminated â€Å"values card† in their wallet or having a purely compliance approach to ethics has solved the â€Å"ethics problem.† Suffice it to say that Enron and other troubled companies had these systems in place. What they didn’t have was a conversation across all levels of the business where the basics of value creation, stakeholder principles and societal expectations were routinely discussed and debated. There is a fallacy that values and ethics are the â€Å"soft, squishy† part of management. Nothing could be further from the truth. In organizations that have a live conversation about ethics and values, people hold each other responsible and accountable about whether they are really living the values. And, they expect the leaders of the organization to do the same. Bringing such a conversation to life means that people must have knowledge of alternatives, must choose every day to stay with the organization and its purpose because it is important and inspires them. Making a strong commitment to bringing this conversation to life is essential to do if one is to lead ethically. Most people know the story of Johnson and Johnson’s former CEO Jim Burke and the Tylenol product recall in the 1980s in which, at a great short-term financial cost, he pulled all potentially tampered-with products off the shelves, thereby keeping the public’s trust intact. The less well-known background to this story, however, is critical to understanding the final outcome. Well before the Tylenol crisis hit, Johnson & Johnson had held a series of â€Å"challenge meetings† all around the world, where managers sat and debated their â€Å"Credo,† a statement of their purpose and principles of who they wanted to be as a company. The conversation about ethics at Johnson & Johnson was alive, and in many ways made Jim Burke’s choice about handling the situation clearer than it otherwise would have been. 5. Create mechanisms of dispute. This needs to be made part of the organizational culture, not just a line item in a compliance program document. Some companies have used anonymous e-mail and telephone processes to give employees a way around the levels of management that inevitably spring up as barriers in large organizations. Many executives also have used â€Å"skip level† meetings where they go down multiple levels in the organization to get a more realistic view of what is actually going on. General Electric’s famous â€Å"workout† process—where workers meet to decide how to fix problems and make the company better—was a way for front line employees to push back against the established policies and authority of management. All of these processes lead to better decisions, more engaged employees, and an increased likelihood of avoiding damaging mistakes. In a company that takes its purpose or values seriously, there must be mechanisms of pushing back to avoid the values becoming stale and dead. Indeed, many of the current corporate scandals could have been prevented if only there were more creative ways for people to express their dissatisfaction with the actions of some of their leaders and others in the companies. The process of developing these mechanisms of dissent will vary by company, by leadership style, and by culture, but it is a crucial leadership task for value creation in today’s business world. 6. Take a charitable understanding of others’ values. Ethical leaders can understand why different people make different choices, but still have a strong grasp on what they would do and why. Following twenty-seven years in South African prisons, Nelson Mandela was still able to see the good in his jailers. After one particularly vicious jailer was being transferred away from Robbins Island because of Mandela’s protest and push back, the jailer turned to Mandela and stated â€Å"I just want to wish you people good luck.† Mandela interpreted this statement charitably as a sign that all people had some good within them, even those caught up in an evil system. Mandela felt that it was his responsibility to see this good in people and to try and bring it out. One CEO suggested that instead of seeing ethical leadership as preventing people from doing the wrong thing, we need to view it as enabling people to do the right thing. 7. Make tough calls while being imaginative. Ethical leaders inevitably have to make a lot of difficult decisions, from reorienting the company’s strategy and basic value proposition to making individual personnel decisions such as working with employees exiting the organization. Ethical leaders do not attempt to avoid difficult decisions by using an excuse of â€Å"I’m doing this for the business.† The ethical leader consistently unites â€Å"doing the right thing† and â€Å"doing the right thing for the business.† The idea that â€Å"ethical leadership† is just â€Å"being nice† is far from the truth. Often, exercising â€Å"moral imagination† is the most important task. Mohammed Yunus founded the Grameen Bank on such moral imagination. By taking the standard banking practice of only lending to people with collateral, and turning it on its head, Yunus spawned an industry of micro-lending to the poor. The Grameen Bank’s motto is that poverty belongs in a museum. In addition to having one of the highest loan repayment rates in the banking industry, the bank’s program of lending to poor women in Bangladesh to start businesses has helped millions of them to be able to feed themselves. 8. Know the limits of the values and ethical principles they live. All values have limits, particular spheres in which they do not work as well as others. The limits for certain values, for instance, may be related to the context or the audience in which they are being used. Ethical leaders have an acute sense of the limits of the values they live and are prepared with solid reasons to defend their chosen course of action. Problems can arise when managers do not understand the limits of certain values. As an example, one issue common to the recent business scandals was that managers and executives did not understand the limits of â€Å"putting shareholders first.† Attempts to artificially keep stock prices high—without creating any lasting value for customers and other stakeholders—can border on fanaticism rather than good judgment. Ethics is no different from any other part of our lives: there is no substitute for good judgment, sound advice, practical sense, and conversations with those affected by our actions. 9. Frame actions in ethical terms. Ethical leaders see their leadership as a fully ethical task. This entails taking seriously the rights claims of others, considering the effects of one’s actions on others (stakeholders), and understanding how acting or leading in a certain way will have effects on one’s character and the character of others. There is nothing amoral about ethical leaders, and they recognize that their own values may sometimes turn out to be a poor guidepost. The ethical leader takes responsibility for using sound moral judgment. But, there is a caution here. It is easy to frame actions in ethical terms and be perceived as â€Å"righteous.† Many have the view that ethics is about universal, inviolable principles that are carved into stone. We need to start with principles and values, and then work hard to figure out how they can be applied in today’s complex global business environment. Principles, values, cultures, and individual differences often conflict. Ethical leadership requires an attitude of humility rather than righteousness: a commitment to one’s own principles, and at the same time, openness to learning and to having conversations with others who may have a different way of seeing the world. Ethics is best viewed as an open conversation about those values and issues that are most important to us and to our business. It is a continual discovery and reaffirmation of our own principles and values, and a realization that we can improve through encountering new ideas.