Wednesday, June 3, 2020

Creativity, Flawed Creativity Apple Inc. Research Paper - 825 Words

Creativity, Flawed Creativity: Apple Inc. Research Paper (Essay Sample) Content: FLAWED CREATIVITYName:UniversityLecturer:Date:FLAWED CREATIVITYApple Inc. is one of the few companies that have succeeded in the tech world. This has come about by the desire of the companyà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬s board to make products that are too attractive to be real. Of equal importance is its Apple store, a mobile application that was designed to help shoppers by Apple product such as iPhone, Mac and Apple watches; product that Ron Johnson helped Steve Jobs build it during his tenure as retail chief. After the success story of Apple store, the management board of JC Penney appointed him as CEO to help bring back a retail firm that had lost its glory as US shoppers favorite.The new CEO embarked on implementing strategies that massively rebranded the JC Penney brand, most of which he had used to spur sales while at Apple. He began by training employees to help people do their shopping and also developed brands that were exclusive to JC Penney. In addition his tenure was marke d my introduction of low fair prices in place of the traditional inflated prices with high tempting amounts of discounts and coupons. All of which were good well thought out strategies, little did he know that they were bound to fail. Eventually, he was forced out of office after the stock value of the retail dropped by a whopping 55 percent, a situation the shareholders could not tolerate any longer.One might wonder what Johnson did that was disastrous enough to cost the fortune of such a company. With all the brilliant turn around strategies he had implemented, one might want to conclude that he didnà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬t deserve such a humiliation. Actually a number of factors contributed to his spectacular failure at JC Penney and they include: misreading shoppers; alienation of core customers; misreading the JC Penney brand and rolling out ideas without testing them.After taking over as the new CEO of the retailing firm, Johnson completely overhauled the pricing system. He introduced the low fair and square pricing approach for everyday shopping to replace the inflated prices used to lure customers through massive discounts that seemed tempting. Little did he know that shoppers are not drawn to shop by logic or fair pricing rather by the need to get deals via coupons and massive fake discounts! As a result sales began to drop massively; even Johnson himself acknowledged that they had made a terrible mistake abolishing the coupons.With the removal of coupons Johnson alienated many of JC Penneyà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬s oldest and most loyal customers. They felt that they were no longer part of JC Penney target market and so they had to do their shopping in places where they could still hunt for coupons and massive discounts. This resulted in small customer base to support the companyà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬s brand name.Johnsonà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬s inability to understand what JC Penneyà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬s old customers wanted stemmed from the fact that he did not want to test his ideas on a limited basis. His reason was simple, "we didnà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬t test at appleà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ . Take for instance the introduction of low fair prices without coupons, Johnson simply rolled out the strategy without even asking for views from the shoppers themselves.Finally, Ron Johnson totally misunderstood what the JC Penney brand was. Un...

Saturday, May 16, 2020

Gothic Literature A Rose For Emily, The Tell Tale Heart,...

In William Faulkner’s, â€Å"A Rose for Emily, Edgar Allan Poe’s â€Å"The Tell Tale Heart,† and Sylvia Plath’s â€Å"Daddy†, are endowed with many features that contribute to their gothic form and success. Faulkner’s,† A Rose for Emily† is characterized by a powerful imagery, plot and setting which are interwoven to create a gothic feeling. The story unfolds in Jefferson, the living fragments of a land that is plagued with civil war. Among the remains of Jefferson is Emily’s house which appears to be the summary of what has become of the wealthy and noble in Jefferson. The description of the house in itself creates a haunting atmosphere. The â€Å"stubborn and coquettish decay above the cotton wagons and the gasoline pumps,† coupled with the â€Å"cemetery†,†¦show more content†¦The first imagery is the old man’s eyes which serve as a motive for murder. â€Å"A pale blue eye with a film over it†. The vulture creates images of prey and death. While the images of dismembering the body creates horror, the sound of the heartbeat apparently signifies a paranoia activity and intensifies one’s fear towards a supernatural ac tivity.†Ã¢â‚¬ ¦hark! louder! louder! louder! LOUDER!† Clearly, Poe is successful in achieving his theme of horror through the use of setting, imagery, irony and symbolism. Plath’s â€Å"Daddy† is embodied with rich imagery, symbolism and metaphors which convey the speaker’s fascination with death, decay and gloominess. It is not clear the poem is an autobiography of Plath’s life but it is evident Plath had some difficulties growing up that seem to penetrate some aspects of this poem. The poem opens with and angry tone â€Å"You do not do, you do not do,† creating an emotionally charged atmosphere for the preceding lines. One of the powerful tools Plath uses to carry home her message is imagery â€Å"Black Shoe† for instance creates dark memories of her dad and the difficulties she endures. In a bitter mockery, Plath compares her Dad to God; because though dead, this powerful man finds a way to control her an indication that her father’s overbearing attitude still taunts her. The â€Å"black† color symbolizes fear, oppression and desolation that she experiences in life through her dad. The simile s in the poem are

Wednesday, May 6, 2020

A Brief Note On The Death Of Euthanasia - 1456 Words

Death Rights: Euthanasia We as a people live in a society dominated by politics, laws, ethics, and most of all the freedom of choice. This freedom is challenged for a particular group of individuals who are often ignored in their plea for this choice, no matter how much they beg and scream for a peaceful means of death. Euthanasia must be put into effect immediately, it is a choice we must not make, the sufferers must make this controversial choice because it is their life, it must not be in the hands of those who can not even comprehend the pain that the suffer is in. Patient Assisted Suicide should be made legal on three accounts: The right to choose death over suffering is an inalienable right that all humans deserve to have, it is cost effective to end the suffering of a patient than to spend money on treatments when the patient is about to die anyway, and is, by nature, an ethical way to give a patient dignity in his life by giving him free will to choose what he wishes to do wi th it. Euthanasia: The Rights of Death over Suffering There is not a topic more heated and debated than the will of the patient to choose whether or not to end his/her life, given his/her certain condition is terminal and is in immeasurable pain and agony that they can no longer bare the burden to live (See Figure 1.0). Firstly, the very nature of euthanasia is in its name, coming from the greek name eu- meaning â€Å"good† and -thanatos meaning â€Å"death† (Humphry). This name sparks ideas in others,Show MoreRelatedEuthanasia Is The Other Form And It Takes Place Against The Patient s Consent1005 Words   |  5 PagesInvoluntary euthanasia is the other form and it takes place against the patient’s consent. Finally, non-voluntary euthanasia is whereby a physician carries out the act despite the fact that the patient does not have the ability to make the decision. To understand the slippery slope here, it is important to take note of the fact that all these forms of eut hanasia are morally demeaning since they do not uphold the right to life. Legalizing PAS would, therefore, imply that the right to life is beingRead MoreThe Ethical Issue Of Physician Assisted Suicide1580 Words   |  7 Pagesto explore the prospects of physician assisted suicide as for the greater good and as a modern ethical obligation. Gorsuch, Neil M.. â€Å"Future of Assisted Suicide and Euthanasia.† Princeton, NJ, USA: Princeton University Press, 2006. 1-24, 180-200. The author of this book set the stage by giving a brief history of euthanasia and doctor assisted suicide in American and in various countries across the globe, mentioning cases such of Doctor Kevorkian of the early ‘90s in America assisting in theRead MoreThe Death Of Euthanasia And Euthanasia3752 Words   |  16 Pages Euthanasia has long been a topic of debate and can be characterized as indirectly or directly bringing about the death of another person for that person’s sake. Forms of euthanasia that are most commonly brought up include passive euthanasia, which is the legalized practice where someone is allowed to die by not doing something that would prolong life, and active euthanasia, which involves performing an action that directly causes someone to die. Furthermore, they can be further differentiatedRead MoreEssay on Active Euthanasia, Free Will and Autonomy1945 Words   |  8 PagesActive Euthanasia, Free Will and Autonomy Medicine in the hands of a fool has always been poison and death. -C. J. Jung Euthanasia, from the Greek, quite literally means the good death. Advocates of euthanasia, offer it as a solution for the emotional, psychological and physiologic suffering of terminally ill patients. The type of euthanasia, which is presently under debate, is called active euthanasia and is defined as an act performed by an individual to bring about the death ofRead More Euthanasia Must Not Be Legalized Essays2091 Words   |  9 PagesPresently, many cases of euthanasia had occurred around the world. Many a time we will stop and ask whether the person has anymore hope to live as a normal person. At the end it is left to the court to decide whether the people live or die. But why does the patient or the guardian choose euthanasia when they can live a longer time with their loved ones. Some might ask whether it is worth to see your loved ones suffering, wouldn’t it be better to end the suffering? To answer this question weRead MoreEuthanasia Prologue To The Holocaust4 567 Words   |  19 PagesEuthanasia Euthanasia: Prologue to the Holocaust Sophie Payne Introduction to Historical Research Methods April 20, 2017 Sophie Payne Euthanasia: Prologue to the Holocaust Euthanasia, the practice of intentionally ending a life to relieve pain and suffering, dates to the first and second centuries. Euthanasia comes from the Greek word Eu (good) and Thanatosis (death). While euthanasia typically refers to the assistance of a painless death for a chronically orRead More Jack Kevorkian Essay1774 Words   |  8 Pagesand local doctors; Janet Adkins decided she didn ¹t want to undergo the sustained mental deterioration that Alzheimer ¹s Disease caused (Uhlman 111). She began to realize she had the disease when she started forgetting songs and failed to recognize notes as she played the piano (Filene 188).  ³She read in Newsweek about Dr. Jack Kevorkian and his Å’Mercitron ¹ machine, then saw him on the Å’Donahue ¹ Television show ² (Filene 188). With her husband ¹s consent but objections by sons and doctors, she telephonedRead MoreCarter Vs. Canada Attorney General1666 Words   |  7 PagesCarter vs Canada Attorney General Case brief: The heated case between, Carter v Canada Attorney General made many headlines across the nation, this case in particular talked about physician-assisted death which was going against the Charter rights and freedom. In other words this act was opposing the guidelines of our Charter. The Carter case began on April of 2011, how it arrived to the supreme court of Canada was a 65 year old woman named Gloria Taylor had ALS. SheRead MoreAruna Shanbaug Case - Supreme Court of India14522 Words   |  59 PagesMr. T. R. Andhyarujina, learned Senior Counsel, whom we had appointed as amicus curiae, Mr. Pallav Sisodia, learned senior counsel for the Dean, KEM Hospital, Mumbai, and Mr. Chinmay Khaldkar, learned counsel for the State of Maharashtra. 2 2. Euthanasia is one of the most perplexing issues which the courts and legislatures all over the world are facing today. This Court, in this case, is facing the same issue, and we feel like a ship in an uncharted sea, seeking some guidance by the light thrownRead MoreCanada s New Laws Regarding Doctor Assisted Suicide1828 Words   |  8 Pagesphilosophical concept that a terminally ill individual should be allowed to die naturally and comfortably instead of experiencing a life of deep unconsciousness prolonged by mechanical support systems. (Death with Dignity) In 1993, Sue Rodriguez, a sufferer of ALS, believed that the time and manner of her death should not be determined by her illness or by the law. She expressed that it should be legal for a physician to end her life for her at a time she has chosen. (Fenton) Rodriguez took her case to the

Tuesday, May 5, 2020

Transactions on Modeling and Computer Simulation

Question: Discuss about the Transactions on Modeling and Computer Simulation. Answer: Introduction: It is considered as a traditional method of developing an engineering software simply because its steps are usually linear sequential flow and rigid. Additionally, it has very specific objectives for each phase of its process whereby once a phase is completed and the next has begun, there is no going back to the previous phase for correction (Bassil, 2012). One of the disadvantages of this methodology is that it is not flexible which means that once an application reaches the testing phase or is in its final stage, it cannot be changed because of the difficulties involved when going back to the prior stages to make corrections. Also it is generally not applicable for maintenance or the ongoing projects and can only be used for projects with very specific requirements. However, there are advantages that accrue to waterfall methodology which may include: it allows departmentalization and makes management easy simply because of its rigidity, it is easy to understand, saves time and allo ws easy testing and analysis of the software. Agile Methodology This methodology focuses on minimizing the risks by developing the software in short time boxes known as the iterations which last from a period of one week to one month. Every iteration is independent and acts as a lone project with the idea of releasing its own developed software at the end (Rosen, 2005). Every iteration has its planning, scheduling, coding, testing, requirement analysis and documentation steps but its overall aim is always to achieve the expected goal and objective (final software development). One of the advantages of agile methodology is that: it is flexible for various projects, encourages communication and continuous feedback hence transparency between team members, corrections are possible at any time and it is certainly time conscious and cost effective. Nonetheless there are disadvantages as well, which are: the project can get off track if the requirements are not clear and specific and its focus is on the software and no documentation which may be needed after all. Dynamic System Development Model It is derived from the rapid application development model. It is simply an iterative and incremental model whose aim is to benefit the end user the best way possible. In addition to that, it also focuses on providing the developed and functional software on time and within the budgeted costs. It is a flexible process because it is prone to changes whenever need be and that it involves testing and analysis of the results at every step of the way (Conboy, 2009). Some of the advantages are: the end users are highly involved in its development and in every step of the way, it provides easy software access for the users, functional software delivery or completion is quick and on time and projects are delivered within the set budget. However, there are disadvantages as well, which include: it is expensive to fund, it is an upcoming methodology and therefore not very common and popular for the developers and it is difficult to understand. Joint Application Development Methodology It involves requirements-classification and user-interface expansion whereby the clients, users and developers attend frequent meetings and conferences to be able to approve of the software they would prefer developed. The clients or the users are always or must be involved in the designing, planning and expanding of the software (Dingsyr et al, 2012). However, it focuses on business current problems rather than the technical issues affecting the business. It has some advantages as well, like: encourages information sharing, produces the project on time, proper and fast problem solving and provide an opportunity to learn new ideas. Nevertheless, the methodology has got some disadvantages too, like: high expertise is required but rare to find, it is expensive to fund and takes a lot of time to plan and manage. For the case study in question, the best model to use is the Dynamic System Development Model. This is simply because it has all the requirements that are needed for it to achieve the stated objectives in the case study. Since its main aim is to benefit the users by making it easy for them to use the software, giving them quality product and providing them with the product on time, then it is the best methodology that can be applied for the case study. My discussion will be on waterfall methodology. Despite the fact that it is not the best choice for the case study software development, it is also suitable. Waterfall methodology is a methodology that involves several steps or phases to be followed for the software to be successfully developed (Munassar et al, 2010). It is a six step process which starts with: Requirement Gathering and Analysis This stage involves the defining, analyzing and recording of the required materials necessary to complete the software development. Defining stage requires the developers to contact the users and find out what they would actually need at the end of the development process. They will have to collect clear raw data from them to enhance effective and efficient production of the software. Also the need to analyze the information collected to make sure that it is complete, clear, precise and consistent with all of them. Then the recording has to be done for later reference. The information is simply stored to be used during the actual implementation of the project development. This involve the designing of the software art fact just as required by the users. The developers will have to show a simple model of what the software will be like but in theoretical terms. This stage involves the planning, scheduling and managing of materials to be used during the actual software development implementation stage. The design should be able to meet the objectives of the users and solve any problems that may come up even in future. This stage determines how the programming will be done and how the whole software will appear like and function like in real action. As for the case study, I will make sure that some users are present during this stage and that they have approved the design before it is implemented. This is the actual programming of the software design. It involves analyzing, coding, setting algorithms and taking into action all the requirements for the previous steps. This implementation phase involves putting into action the actual design of the software. This stage is dependent on the previous phases. It is the stage in which the actual prototype or software is revealed. As for the case study, I would involve some of the end users are aware of the development of the software development process by making sure that they make some check-ups especially during this stage. By involving them, there will certainly be idea sharing even from them to help the developers not lose track on the main objective of the project. This is a step that involves giving some users the developed software to use with an aim of finding out its functionality. The developers have to make sure that the software has achieved its objective and goals as needed and expected by the users and therefore they take the first outcome under test. Apart from desiring to find out about its functionality, they will be aiming to know about its quality and problem solving ability. For the case study, I would give a few of the end users a chance to test the software themselves to know whether it has fulfilled their requirements. This is simply the actual release of the developed software to the public for use. The software should however be in accordance to the characteristics and requirements of the users. Therefore, the developers should ensure that it is fully functional. Referring to the case study, it will involve moving the software into the computers and setting and activating the actual commands to enable usage. This is the frequent check-ups of the software after release to correct faults, improve the modifications or characteristics and make sure that it is still functional. This phase is determined by the success of the software in real life i.e. the number of problems reported by users. The more the failure reports the higher the maintenance costs. As for the case study, I would make sure that the developers stay in touch with the users to be able to correct, update and improve the software whenever needed. The Agile methodology is step by step process whereby each phase is independent i.e. it aims at producing its own complete and functional software at the end of every phase (Dyb, et al, 2008). However, the waterfall methodology is also a step by step process but once a phase is completed there is no coming back for corrections. Therefore, the waterfall can use the idea brought about by agile methodology where by before moving to the next step, the developers will be sure that the previous one is complete, right and needs no correction. This will certainly increase the chances of success of the project. The tools that would be used for this work are some of the following: Mind maps or Charts, labor (software developers and programmers), design patterns, database modelling tools (toad, MySQL Workbench), UML tools and techniques, java or PHP, Google, Testing tools and frameworks (JMeter, WebUI test tools, testing Anywhere), algorithms, Scrum desk, programming languages (Java, PHP) to name just but a few tools. Dynamic Systems Development Model Methodology (DSDMM) This methodology was developed in the 1990s in the United Kingdom. It is a better development of the rapid application development (RAD). Apparently, the aim of this methodology is to focus mainly on the users while that of RAD is to reduce the amount of construction needed to produce a certain product or complete a certain project. Apart from being a better version of RAD, it is also a constituent of the agile methodologies which give it more values of being efficient and effective in software development projects (Uhrmacher, 2001). DSDM methodology assumes that there is no project that is ever perfect at first but after development and continuous usage and customer involvement, it can be. According to the case study, the users of the software want: to be involved in entire process of the software development, be given as much support from the software as possible, the software to be economically cost effective and time conscious especially in terms of product delivery and to be of good and high quality. This means that all they want is to have a software that is simple, understandable and easy to operate and manage. Therefore, I can say that the DSDM methodology is the perfect applicable methods for this case because of the characteristics that it uses during software development projects. To be precise, it will fulfill all the needs of the users and even more i.e.: Encourages active and easy user control and involvement Puts a lot of focus on product deliveries It is flexible for any change that may come up Its main focus is entirely on the organizations needs and especially the users There is the ability to test the software or product at any time and at any stage Increases cooperation and unity between the users and the software developers Decisions are made by specific group which is usually an expert on the field The Dynamic System Development Model methodology is just like any other methodology. This means that it also has its advantages and disadvantages, which include the following: Advantages of DSDM Methodology It is cost effective hence economically perfect Users are aware of the software development process Provides quick functional product i.e. the software Produces high quality work Offers easy access to the end users There is the ability of the users to effect project change because of their involvement Delivers the software on time Can be able to indicate the chances of project success and failure early enough Disadvantages of DSDM Methodology May be costly to fund when done by small business organizations In addition to that, the DSDM methodology is still evolving. It is still being improved in very many different ways so that it can be applicable and be used by every type of business organization, be it be small or large. Therefore, just like any other methodology, the goal of this evolution is to help the workers in the organization work effectively and efficiently together and to achieve the organizational goals. Also, it will also be able to solve so many other organizational problems like: squeezed budgets, delayed product delivery, tight production schedules, lack of user or customer involvement with the organization, lack of cooperation among the workers, missing deadlines of any organizational activity and lack of top management and collaboration. To conclude, I can say that the Dynamic Systems Development Process method is the best compared to others like waterfall methodology, Joint Application methodology, Spiral methodology to name just but a few. This is simply because it not only have more advantages than disadvantages compared to others but also because its characteristics or the principles that underline it are entirely in relation to the case study. The users of the software in the case study have the same reasons for software development as the reasons for using DSDM methodology. Therefore, if the organization applies this method in its software development, then the chances of it succeeding are way better than when it chooses to use any other possible method. Industry Examples include: the banking industry (Loyds Bank Insurance Services), construction industries (Loforte et al, 2010), transport and telecommunication industries like: British telecommunication and British airways (Roses et al, 2016) References Dingsyr, T., Nerur, S., Balijepally, V. and Moe, N.B., 2012. A decade of agile methodologies: Towards explaining agile software development. Munassar, N.M.A. and Govardhan, A., 2010. A comparison between five models of software engineering.IJCSI,5, pp.95-101. Dyb, T. and Dingsyr, T., 2008. Empirical studies of agile software development: A systematic review.Information and software technology,50(9), pp.833-859. Conboy, K., 2009. Agility from first principles: Reconstructing the concept of agility in information systems development.Information Systems Research,20(3), pp.329-354. Uhrmacher, A.M., 2001. Dynamic structures in modeling and simulation: a reflective approach.ACM Transactions on Modeling and Computer Simulation (TOMACS),11(2), pp.206-232. Gentleman, R.C., Carey, V.J., Bates, D.M., Bolstad, B., Dettling, M., Dudoit, S., Ellis, B., Gautier, L., Ge, Y., Gentry, J. and Hornik, K., 2004. Bioconductor: open software development for computational biology and bioinformatics.Genome biology,5(10), p.R80. Rosen, C.C.H., 2005. The influence of intra team relationships on the systems development process: A theoretical framework of intra-group dynamics. In17th Workshop of the Psychology off Programming Interest Group, Sussex University. Bassil, Y., 2012. A simulation model for the waterfall software development life cycle.ArXiv preprint arXiv: 1205.6904. Roses, L.K., Windmller, A. and Carmo, E.A.D., 2016. Favorability conditions in the adoption of agile method practices for software development in a public banking.JISTEM-Journal of Information Systems and Technology Management,13(3), pp.439-458. Loforte Ribeiro, F. and Timteo Fernandes, M., 2010. Exploring agile methods in construction small and medium enterprises: a case study.Journal of Enterprise Information Management,23(2), pp.161-180.

Sunday, April 19, 2020

NuComm Company in China

Is Duncan Cowie right in his view that China is an â€Å"ideal market† for NuComm? Is  this the right time to enter? In today’s world, it has been noted that the internal market in any given single country has been shrinking by the day, hence forcing the firms to search for markets outside their country.Advertising We will write a custom case study sample on NuComm Company in China specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Consequently, globalization has come in handy to help these firms with the much-needed demand for their goods and services, therefore, decreasing their operating costs and increasing the profit margins through economies of scale. Contrary to many people’s views, going outside one’s country of origin is not an easy task, and it requires strategic planning together with good timing not forgetting enough and extensive research to be sure that the investment is worthy, since the initial costs ar e high. NuComm management is faced by the dilemma of determining whether investing in China is a feasible option, and if it is to choose the location and mode of entry. Duncan Cowie the financial manager of the company who worked in China for around two years, and has some experience in the Chinese business atmosphere, proposed that China is the ideal market for Nucomm. NuComm needs to diversify from the American and the Canadian markets where it has based its operations for years due to the volatility of the currencies there hence affecting its profit margins. The idea of investing in China was the best at the time given the prevailing conditions. 1. The Chinese workers in North American represent a significant number yet they are not covered by any call center firm, and that would make a good opportunity as they will be more ready to associate themselves with a company which would serve them even when they are back in China.Advertising Looking for case study on business econ omics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More 2. China is still an upcoming industrial country where a service industry is just but gaining foot, and that would be advantageous, if NuComm becomes one of the first firms to start offering the communication service. 3. There are a lot of opportunities that are available in China and highlights the meager number of call centers available compelling one call center seat to serve 100, 000 people compared to America’s 700 people. 4. The government of the people’s Republic of China has recently promised to support foreign firms that have the intention of investing in the telecommunication sector, since they want to develop this sector. The government has indicated the possibility of relaxing laws that regulate foreign investment, including the requirement that a foreign firm must have some percentage of local ownership in order to operate in China, to attract foreign firms. This is an idea that NuComm should take advantage of because though it is only directed to a specific city, Dalian, the Chinese government has a reputation of implementing all its promises and putting all necessary machineries in place whenever it wants something done. 5. The idea of not going where the market is but where the market is expected to be helped NuComm to succeed in the Philippines. In China, Cowie notes also that the call center service businesses are not so much pronounced, which means that there is a lot of potential, when people there would come to know the usefulness of the services offered. 6. NuComm needs to expand very fast in order to save itself from the financial problems that are imminent. The possibility of growth in China is projected to be just what NuComm needs to be able to set pace for financial sustenance.Advertising We will write a custom case study sample on NuComm Company in China specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Le arn More Industrial analysts have projected that the call center seats will increase at a rate of 40 per cent per year, which is higher than even in America, where the market is fast becoming saturated. 7. Besides, the cost of operations in China would be far much lower than those of America because wages in China are comparably lower than in the US, and wages make the bulk of NuComm’s recurring expenses. The most expensive town in China is Shanghai, where the wages are $282 compared to America’s $2500. 8. NuComm’s efforts in India failed and going back would be more of gambling given that there is nobody who is experienced as to how business is run there. On the other hand, Cowie has been working in China albeit with another company and therefore, knows how to go about with business in that country. The timing could not be more perfect than now because the government has just pledged support, infrastructure is good and the upcoming Olympic Games will increase business opportunities. The Olympic Games will bring a lot of people from various parts of China as well as other parts of the world, and it would be just perfect opportunity to create contacts with various firms which would become the customers. The government is also encouraging the development of the telecommunication sector and has even promised support to foreign firms that are willing to locate in specific places. Assess Cowie’s five-step entry strategy for China. Does the sequence make sense? Duncan Cowie suggests a five-step entry strategy which if applied by NuComm will be of great help, according to him. It is important to focus on the Chinese people working in America as the main target, because they are bound to be more willing to have service, since they have been in the American market and have probably used the service at one point in time, therefore, they know how important it is. The workers also, being Chinese, have information about Chinese’s firms and individuals who may be interested in the service and therefore, will help a lot in giving referrals and enabling NuComm to take opportunities a head of time.Advertising Looking for case study on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More It is also important to have clients that will enable the firm to break even in the early stages of entry. On that note, the Chinese workers in America stand to be the most dependable at the moment given that they have embraced the advancement in technology. The Chinese workers will also be delighted to be associated with a company that operates in China and which is ready to offer them services that they have not been receiving. On top of that, more and more American firms are entering the Chinese market, while others have already established there, and they will all require call center services. These firms will be looking for a more credible company available to contract for the services. Given the popularity that NuComm has in the US and Canadian markets, it will stand a greater chance of securing deals for most American firms, which based in China. As it is in America, many firms prefer out sourcing call center services and will therefore, definitely need the services even when in the foreign market, more so when it is another American firm that is offering the service. It should be noted, however, that dependency on American firms only can be catastrophic given that the number of American firms entering Chinese market might not enough to support NuComm’s business. A large number of the inhabitants of Chinese cities are the natives of China, who also happen to own a substantial number of businesses, which mostly serve the Chinese people, and to some extent, foreigners. China is also densely populated, if population is an indicator of the market that is available. Therefore, tailoring some of the products for the Chinese businesses will be of great importance to NuComn, if they want to earn from the investment. It should be noted that in China, English or French is not used, and people there use Chinese language for communication. It will be therefore, a limiting factor, if NuComm does not improvise a way that they will provide services in Chinese l anguage and in fact, this should be done as early as possible. China is the center for Asian development, and it has put in place a conducive business environment for economic development other than the fact that it is centrally located in the Asian continent. It is, therefore, possible to use it as a center to serve other Asian countries as Cowie is suggesting. Hong Kong which is one of the cities of China is identified as the epitome of business with various parts of the world leave alone Asia, hence it would not be difficult for NuComm to serve other countries, especially from Asia using China as their point of operation. Though the five-point strategies make sense, the order is not very convincing to people. I agree that using the Chinese who work in America as the first strategy in entry is quite good given that they present the easiest people of Chinese origin to convince on the importance of call centers. It is also important to aim at American firms as the second strategy si nce they have the ideas of the advantages of the services offered by NuComm, and the two strategies have taken into consideration the language barrier that is bound to affect the operations of NuComm. But at the same time, the Chinese people who are the natives and who are the majorities should not be sidelined for long because Chinese people have a higher tendency of copying, and they might adopt NuComm’s idea to start their own businesses, which will compete with NuComm. Therefore, the strategy of China for China should come in the third, or second, if possible, to reduce the chances of competition from the Chinese people, and also to prepare for the strategy of supporting American firms to invest in China through Chinese voice services. What are the risks facing NuComm in entering China at this time? Though the Chinese venture seems to be profitable, there are a lot of risks that may face NuComm on entry. 1. Chinese people are known to have a culture of copying, if they re spect somebody’s idea, which NuComm is not used to and which increases competition. Intellectual rights are protected in Canada and US, where NuComm is based, but that is not the case in China. The probability of several companies springing up a few years or months after NuComm has set up is high. 2. The Chinese people after realizing that their people have come up with companies that offer the same services as NuComm may choose to deal with their people therefore, decreasing the market for NuComm. 3. The Chinese might customize the services into Chinese language before NuComm does that which will further shrink the chances of NuComm getting hold of the market. It is, therefore, upon Nucomm to move with speed after entry to ensure they increase their scale as fast as possible so that they get to enjoy economies of scale before competition stiffens. 4. Moreover, the Chinese system of government has proven to be very corrupt and to get assistance one needs to know somebody in a position of influence as opposed to either America or Canada, where corruption is minimal, if not absent. This is made clear by Duncan Cowie, when he says that he had to party the whole night with Chinese families to get things done his way. The ruling party officials had ties with the so called private firms and offered them favorable business conditions hence an upper hand amongst competitors. Therefore, it might be difficult for the NuComm firm to operate without having a god father to help in pushing things given that America and Canada are places where protocols are observed. It is also not clear if there might be someone who is very influential and who might want to copy the NuComm idea and therefore, manipulate the authorities to push regulations against NuComm. But on the same note, Cowie had been in China and knows who is who and how they are approached and what is required for one to succeed in that country therefore, he will be able to help. 5. On top of that, most firms , which had entered China early on have not broken even in the market and hence, they were yet to even recover the initial cost of investment. NuComm’s case as it is has financial problems and could not afford to tie down any amount of money for a long period of time without realizing any returns from it. It therefore, has to strategize on how to make returns from the very first moment they enter the Chinese market. 6. For service delivery to be efficient and thus, reduce operating costs staff must deliver to their best and this can be through employing well educated and highly qualified people. In China, the call center services are relatively new to some places, where labor is cheap therefore, finding a well trained employee may be difficult. NuComm should, therefore, choose a method of training employees, so as to get maximum output from them, while maintaining the quality of their services and at the same time keeping operating costs at a minimum. Though wage rate might b e lower in China compared to Canada or America, getting the right employee might be an uphill task leading to decreased rate of delivery. 7. It is China’s regulation that a foreign firm cannot operate, if it is fully owned by foreigners which means that any international firm setting up in China must collaborate with the natives. This means NuComm has to look for another firm in China to enter into joint venture with, in order to be allowed to set up in China. The problem of finding the right company or securing favorable terms of operation sets in and NuComm has to strive to get a company, which is ready to enter into the call center business and give the best terms and conditions. Entering China can be done through any of the four cities that Cowie suggests but the most convenient city should be chosen for this is a risky process. The situation should be one where the costs are low while income is high and given the financial position of NuComm the returns should be realize d as early as possible. Which of the possible Chinese locations should the company choose, and what should be the mode of entry? Beijing is the capital city and expects to host Olympic Games besides having reduced costs compared to Shanghai and probability of getting highly educated staff is high. There will be many people coming during the Olympic Games, but this is periodical and after the games business will go back to normal, hence the viability of income after the Olympic Games is not very clear. Coupled with that is the fact that so far there has not been a firm that NuComm will partner with, in order to start its operations in Beijing. It is also evident that Beijing is the capital of the communist part, whose leaders are known to be very corrupt therefore, increasing the possibility of corrupt deals against NuComm should it be seen that NuComm will succeed. On the other hand, Shanghai is directly under the control of the central government; hence most of its activities are o verseen by government officials. The possibility of the government interfering with the operations of a firm located in shanghai is therefore, very high. Being a commercial town and a hub of industries in China, it has many businesses, which increase competition and therefore, people are striving to improve their performance hence they will be more receptive to any idea that will help in boosting productivity. Dalian has come into question due to the outright efforts by the government to boost development in the region thus, offering relaxation in regulations. Many foreign firms have been located there due to the policy that allows foreign investment and more are yet to come given that most policies limiting foreign investment can be relaxed. Most of the firm there are those, which are likely to offer support to NuComm and the government can be willing to facilitate the registration process. Furthermore, infrastructure is developed and it has the capability of meeting NuComm’ s demands. Hong Kong is the best city to enter china because: Hong Kong has had ties with the west for a long time now and has the entire infrastructure and other needs for full operation of NuComm. English is the official language of business therefore, language barrier will not be a problem. There are many companies, which are ready to assist NuComm in starting up given that collaborating with a local firm is a requirement in China. Returns to capital are realized at a faster rate in Hong Kong than any other city and this is what NuComm highly needs. The entry mode will be a joint venture because: China has a requirement that foreign firms must not be owned 100 per cent by foreigners, thus, leaving collaboration with local firms as the only viable option. A joint venture will help in minimizing the risks that faces NuComm, if it enters on its own in the new market. Due to corruption, relationship with top government officials is important in operation in China, therefore, a loc al firm will help in dealing with issues of relationships. The cost of entering as a joint venture is also minimal compared to the costs of entering in other means and NuComm is facing financial problems. This case study on NuComm Company in China was written and submitted by user Neil Guy to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.

Saturday, March 14, 2020

How Film Producers Analyze Your Screenplay

How Film Producers Analyze Your Screenplay When an actor reads a script, he’ll think about how to approach his character, his motivation, his arc. When a cinematographer reads that same script, he’s thinking about lighting, camera angles, and what cinematic style to employ. The art director thinks about how to use design principles and visual techniques, while the editor assesses how everything will cut together. But what about the producer? After all, she’s the creative gatekeeper who has committed to bringing all these people together to turn your script into a movie. What does she look for? In short, everything. (Albeit from a macro level.) Because if she doesn’t understand what the script needs, how will she assemble the right team for it? Moreover, how will she find its audience? Below are six main areas that a good producer will consider when reviewing your script. Story The producer wants fleshed-out characters, dramatic tension, coherent theme, and appropriate narrative structure. These are the underpinnings of viable cinematic storytelling. The story should resonate with your target demographic – whether through comedy, drama or thrills – ultimately offering a two-hour journey that encourages the willing suspension of disbelief. Bottom line, you can take a great story and make a so-so movie, but you’ll never turn a so-so story into a great movie. Budget Producers are not only the film’s creative shepherds but also its fiscal ones. They’re responsible for deciding how much the film should cost and then securing that amount from investors. They also maintain a fiduciary duty to make choices that will benefit those investors. Smaller stories that require over-the-top set pieces or excessive visual effects might turn what would otherwise be a greenlight into a pass. Similarly, material with a low-budget feel might turn off a producer seeking something with wide theatrical appeal. Cast The right cast is almost indispensable to selling a film, so it’s no great mystery why producers rarely read a script without thinking about who would play key roles. Think about known actors whose look, style and personality might best befit the characters and let that inform your writing. The producer may ask you who you see playing those characters. Just make sure the actors you pick have a decent track record of starring in successful films. Execution Logistics At the end of the day, remember that the producer is tasked with turning your words into images. That means finding the right locations, hiring the best crew, securing vendors, determining a feasible schedule, and doing it all in a way that protects the integrity of both the story and budget. If she sees a workable path for bringing your script to screen within the budget parameters, she’s more likely to take a chance on it. Marketing Loving a script is not enough. The producer wants to know that others will love it, too. Those people will make up the movie’s audience. As she reads, she’ll be thinking about how to grab the audience’s attention before they ever buy a ticket, from posters (how will the stars look on it?) to trailers (are there some good action-oriented set piece moments?) to awards potential (can I parlay a win at Cannes into an Oscar?). Considering such things in the scripting stage yourself might make your material more marketable. Distribution A feature film is ultimately a product. Making it is only the first step. Releasing it to an audience is the rest. The producer thinks about which distributors, sales agents, and platforms will find the story appealing, whether it be a made-for-TV movie, an international blockbuster, or a small Spanish-language indie for the Latin streaming market. Elements like scope, scale, plot, tone, genre, cast type, and marketability factor into this decision, so your understanding of such things help you better craft material. Summary These six elements are critical to how a producer analyzes a screenplay, but they don’t operate in a vacuum. They all relate and affect each other. For instance, story and budget will affect the level of cast you can attract, while all three will affect logistics. Cast and budget will affect the marketing plan, and so on. As such, multi-hyphenates like writer-producers who actually produce some of their own material are in the best position to consider another producer’s mindset when writing future scripts. For further insights, here is part of an interview I did with Film Courage on this topic: https://youtu.be/PAz-hW_Vym0

Thursday, February 27, 2020

Unit V Assignment (Training and Development) Essay

Unit V Assignment (Training and Development) - Essay Example This proposal is rooted on the fact that the demand for software designers is at its peak in the current economy. For this reason, there is a need for training to equip professionals with relevant skills that workforce desires. The apprentice is guaranteed a variety of skills to learn from this program. One of the most prevalent programming languages is the C language, and it is among the skills acquired in the apprenticeship. It turns out that the C programming language is the foundation of many operating systems hence the training equips workforce with latest updates in this area. Another relevant and essential skill from this apprenticeship is mastery of the C++ language. The complexity and convolution of this programming language requires adequate preparation to handle unexpected changes (Sinha, 2009). In addition, this apprenticeship enables mastery of JavaScript with an aim of making the web an interactive place. Next on the list of skills is an understanding and application of HTML. However, the most significant skill developed from this apprenticeship is the language of SQL. This comes from the idea that SQL server developers have skills, which are in high demand, and comes with better job prospects than any other programming language. The entire process of training deems to follow a definite path. With the apprentice’s development in mind, the apprenticeship focuses on dividing classes according to various programming languages, and allows employees specialize on what they best understand. The process of training then ensures that employees are more committed to success in respective jobs (Sinha, 2009). It instills on employees a sense of confidence and the ability to handle various challenges. Even though all programming languages are essential for an all-round computer programmer, this apprenticeship ensures a clear