Masters in Marketing Management Question Papers

Question Papers 2007 Semester ? I Sub Code| Subject Name| 2007| 2007| 101| P P M| May| Oct| 102| Principles of Marketing| May| Oct| 103| Fundamental of Management Accounting| May| Oct| 104| Managerial Economics| May| Oct| 105| Research Methodology| May| Oct| 106| Consumer Behaviour| May| Oct| Semester ? II Sub Code| Subject Name| 2007| 2007| 201| Service Marketing| May| Oct| 202| Retail Marketing| May| Oct| 203| Sales Management & Personnel Selling | May| Oct| 204| Distribution Management & Logistics| May| Oct| 205| Marketing Research| May| Oct| 206| Relationship Marketing| May| Oct|Semester ? III Sub Code| Subject Name| 2007| 2007| 301| International Marketing| May| Oct| 302| Marketing and The Laws| May| Oct| 303| Financial Services Marketing| May| Oct| 304| Integrated Marketing Communication| May| Oct| 305| Retail Operation Management| May| Oct| 306| | May| Oct| Semester ? IV Sub Code| Subject Name| 2007| 2007| 401| Brand Management| May| Oct| 402| Strategic Marketing| May| Oct| 403| Export Documentation & Forex Marketing| May| Oct| 404| Direct Marketing| May| Oct| 405| Industrial Marketing| May| Oct| 406| Rural & Agricultural Marketing| May| Oct| Total No. f questions :7 MAY 2007 Total no. of printed pages 1 3178-101 MMM(semester-II)Examination -2007 PRINCIPLE AND PRACTICES OF MANAGEMENT (New course) Time 3 hours Max Marks 70 Instructions: 1) Attempt all question Q. 1)Define Management. Explain Henry Fayols Principle of management [20] OR Q. 1) Explain the term of Motivation along with its significance to organizational productivity . Discuss the Maslaws Theory of need of hierarchy in detail. Q. 2) Explain the basic function of management.Do these function vary from industry to industry? Explain. OR Q. 2) Explain in detail Management Thoughts from the industrial revolution to knowledge based society of 21st century. Q. 3) Discuss the various leadership styles along with examples. OR Q. 3) Explain the Dynamics of Group Behavior. Do the group i nfluence on individual and group decision- making? Explain. Q. 4) Write short notes (Any four) a)Corporate social responsibility b)Hawthrone Experiments c)Quality Circles d)Perception e)The Self Concept and Self Esteem ————————————————- f)Shaping of personality Semester ITotal No. of questions :6 MAY 2007 Total no. of printed pages 1 3178-102 MMM(semester-II)Examination -2007 PRINCIPLRS OF MARKETING (New course) Time 3 hours Max Marks 70 Instructions: 1) Attempt any 5 question 2) each carry equal mark Q1)Chanel decisions cannot be taken without referrringto the PLC stage of a product Critically examine the statement with example Q2) The modern Marketing Manager has to play more responsible and versatile role as compared to Traditional Marketing Manager CommentQ3)Design Marketing Mix stategy for the following product: (a)Milk based Soft Drink (b)Electric Shaver Q4)You want to launch new product of Ayurvedic Dantamanjan . What are the different step you will take to promote this product? Why? Q5)What are the different objective of Advertising? Explain with examples and applicability with respect to PLC? Q6)Write short note on any two: (a)Ethics in Marketing (b)Industrial Vs Consumer Market (c)Product Packaging ————————————————- (d)Online Marketing Semester I Total No. of questions :8 MAY 2007 Total no. of printed pages 2 178-103 MMM(semester-II)Examination -2007 FUDAMENTALS OF MANAGEMEN ACCOUNTING (New course) Time 3 hours Max Marks 70 Instructions: 1) Attempt any 2 question from each section 2) Figures to the right indicate full marks. SECTION-I Q 1)How is Prime cost different from marginal cost? State the element of cost including in the two types of cost indicating there significance in cost accounting? Q 2) Explain various methods of segr egating fixed and variable overhead costs? Q 3)What are the various methods of pricing material issue?When do you advocate pricing the issue at cost price based on the last in first out method? Q 4) ? A good system of costing serves as a mean of control over the expenditure and helps to secure economy in manufacture? Discuss? SECTION-II Q 5)From the following information for the month of January prepare a cost sheet to show the following components 1 . prime cost 2 . factor cost 3 . cost of production 4 . total cost Direct material 57000 Direct wages 28500 Factory rent and rates 2500 Office rent and rates 500 Plant repair and maintenance 1000 Plant description 1250 Factory managers salary 2000Office salary 1600 Directors remuneration 1500 Telephone and postage 200 Printing and stationary 100 Legal charges 150 Advertising 1500 Salesman salary 2500 Showroom rent 500 Sales 116000 Q 6. )following particulars related to production department of factory for the month of june are , Materia l used 80000 Direct wages 72000 Direct labour hours worked 20000 Hours of machine operation 25000 Overhead charges 90000 Cost data of particular order carried out in the above department during the june are given below Material used 8000Direct wages 6200 Labour hours 3300 Machine hour 2400 What would be the factory cost of the work order under the following method of charging overheads? Q 7) per unit cost structure of single product manufacturing company as below Selling price 100 Direct material 60 Direct labour 10 Variable overhead 10 Number of unit sold in the year are 5035 as per agreement with the employee union there will be an increase of 10% in direct wages Calculate; (1)how many more unites have to be sold next year to maintain some quantum of profits. (2)By what percentage selling price has to be raised to maintain the same P/V ratio ?Q 8) white a short note (any four) 1) Transfer pricing 2) pricing of issue 3) financial accounting VS cost accounting 4) prerequisite of mat erial purchase ————————————————- 5)labour cost Semester ? I Total No. of questions :7 MAY 2007 Total no. of printed pages 1 3178-104 MMM(semester-II)Examination -2007 MANAGERIAL ECONOMICS (New course) Time 3 hours Max Marks 70 Instructions: 1) Attempt any 5 question 2) each carry equal mark Q1)What is Managerial Economics?Explain the relationship of Micro Economics with Managerial Economics. Q2)Define Product Function Explain Increasing, Constant and Decreasing Return to scale. Q3)(a)Describe characteristic features of Oligopoly. (b)Why Perfect Competiton is socially and economically describe? Q4)What is cost Benefit Analysis? Explain its practical significance. Q5)(A)Explain break-even analysis. (B) Justify the need of Government? s Intervention in the Market Economy. Q6)Discuss Pricing Method followed by the Business Firm. Q7)Write note on (any two) (a)Type of Demand Ela sticity (b)Merits and Demerits of Co-operative society (c)Privet Good Vs Public Good ———————————————— (d)Economic Liberalization Semester ? I Total No. of questions :7 MAY 2007 Total no. of printed pages 1 3178-105 MMM(semester-II)Examination -2007 RESEARCH METHODOLOGY (New course) Time 3 hours Max Marks 70 Instructions: 1) Question 1 &6 arecompulsary 2) attempt any 3 from remaining. Q1)Attempt any two: (a)Explain various steps involved in the Research Process. (b)Represent the following data by a Pie Chart:t ITEMMaterialLabourFuelOverheadsExpenditure in Rs. 150020004000500 (c) Elaborate different type of Research Designs. Q2)Explain the merits and demerits of ? Questionnaire Method?. Also explain the essentials of a Good Questionnaire. (3)What is Experimental Method? Explain different types of experiment al Methods of Pointing out their merits and demerits. Q4)(A)Expl ain various sources of secondary data (B)Explain the Layout of aTable. Q5)Explain the layout and essential qualities of Research report. Q6)Write Short Notes On: (a)Validity in Measurement (b)Observation (c)Pictogram (d)Qualities of a Workable Hypothesis (e)Sampling and Non-sampling erros ———————————————— (f)Editing of Data Semester ? I Total No. of questions :6 MAY 2007 Total no. of printed pages 1 3178-106 MMM(semester-II)Examination -2007 CONSUMER BEHAVIOUR (New course) Time 3 hours Max Marks 70 Instructions: 1) Attempt any 5 question 2) each carry equal mark Q1)Using the concept of Consumer Dictated Product Development, explain how you would launch a new product in the market? Q2)What are the factors which influence a Consumer? s Decision-making Process?Explain with the help of an example. Q3)How does consumer decision making change as purchase involvement increases? Q 4)Discuss the psychological factor influencing Consumer Behaviour with suitable examples. Q5)Explain any one model of Consumer Behviour with suitable examples. Q6)Write short notes on any two (a) Consumerism (b)Personality and self concept ————————————————- (c)Extent of reference group influence Oct 2007 . [3278]-101 M. M. M. (Semester – I) Examination – 2007 PRINCIPLES AND PRACTICES OF MANAGEMENT Time: 3 Hours]:[Max. Marks: 70 Instruction: (1) All questions are compulsory.Q. l) Define Management. Explain: F. W. Taylor is known as ‘Father of Scientific Management'. [20] OR Q. l) What is Corporate Social Responsibility? Does it contribute to increase the Goodwill of the Organization. Explain with example. [20] Q. 2) Explain McGregor's Theory of Work Motivation and discuss its application in Industry. [15] OR Q. 2) Discuss various components of Management Process in brief. [15] Q. 3) Discuss various Leadership Traits of an effective leader. [15] OR Q. 3) Explain the Process of Team Building and elaborate the principles of effective Team Work. [15] Q. ) Write short notes: (Any Four) [20] a) Group Dynamics b) Knowledge Workers c) TQM d) Functions of Top Management e) Role of Individual Behaviour in Organization f) Various Approaches to Management ******************************************************* Semester ? I Oct 2007 [3278]-102 M. M. M. (Semester ? I) PRINCIPLES OF MARKETING Time: 3 Hours] [Max. Marks: 70 Instructions: 1) Answer any five questions. 2) All questions carry equal marks. 3) Neat diagrams must be drawn wherever necessary. Q. ) ? Marketing has evolved a great deal since the early days of distribution and sales orientation.? Discuss.. . Q. 2) A cellular phone manufacturing company has produced some models with different brands. Explain how you will build the brand equity through advertising. Q. 3) What do you mean by t he term ? Distribution Intensity Illustrate your answer. Q. 4) Explain how technological, political and socio-cultural factors affect the Advertising Style and Process. Q. 5) Explain the concept of PLC. Discuss how and why the relative importance and various elements of Marketing Mix will change with a product? stage in the PLC. Q. 6) Write short notes on any two: (a) Obstacles to Marketing Control (b) Marketing Audit (c) New Trends in Packaging (d) Marketing Process ************************************************************ Semester ? I Oct 2007 [3278]-103 M. M. M. (Semester – I) Examination – 2007 FUNDAMENTALS OF MANAGEMENT ACCOUNTING Time: 3 Hours] [Max. Marks: 70 Instructions: 1) Question No. 1 is compulsory. 2) Attempt any two questions from section 1 and section II each . 3) Figures to the right indicate marks. ) Use of simple calculator is allowed. Q. l) Define Management Accounting and state its limitations. [10] SECTION – I Q. 2) What do you understan d by the tenns Break-even Point, Contribution and Margin of Safety? Explain your answer by drawing a chart with assumed figures. [15] Q. 3) Explain various steps in which a raw material moves in a manufacturing organization till it gets consumed in the. production. Give the fonnat of various documents which are prepared in the process. ‘ [15] Q. 4) What is the meaning of Budget and Budgetary Control?State and explain various budgets which can be established in the following functional areas of operation: [15] (1) Sales / Marketing (2) Finance Q. 5) Write short notes on : (Any Three) [05Ãâ€"03=15] a) Transfer Pricing b) Sunk Cost and Opportunity Cost c) Advantages of Standard Costing d) Cost Unit and Cost Centre SECTION – II Q. 6) Following figures are extracted from the accounts of MIs. Kishor Co. for the month of June, 2005 : [15] Production Depts. Service Depts. | | | | PI| P2| SI| S2| S3| | (Rs. )| (Rs. )| (Rs. )| (Rs. ) (Rs. ) (Rs. )| Indirect Material| | 280| 140| 170| 350| 160| Indirect Wages| | 324| 312| 296| 190| 218| Power and Light| 3,000| | | | | | Supervision Charges| 2,200| | | | | | Rent and Taxes| 500| | | | | | Insurance on Assets| ro| | | | | | Depreciation at 12% p. a. on capital value of assets to be considered. From the above infQrmation and the following departmental data, prepare overhead recovery rates for the production department PI and P2 on the basis of direct labour hours.The expenses of service departments should be apportioned straight to the production department, with the information that S 1 is tool room, S2 is maintenance department and S3 is stores department. Departmental Data| PI| P2| 81| 82| 83| Area (Sq. ft)| 400| 200| 100| 200| 100| Capital Value of Assets (Rs. )| 8,000| 4,000| 7,000| 5,000| 6,000| Kilowatt Hours| 4,000| 3,000| 1,000| 1,000| 1,000| Number of Employees| 150| 100| 75| 100| 125| Direct Labour Hours| 5,000| 5,000| | | | Number of Requisitions| 1,000| 300| | | | Q. 7) Following transactions have taken place in respect of a material duringMarch, 2001 : [15] Date 1 Opening Balance 500 units @ Rs. 6 per unit 5 Purchased 100 units @ Rs. 7 per unit 7 Issued 400 units 9 Purchased 300 units @ Rs. 8 per unit 19 Issued 250 units 22 Issued 50 units 25 Purchased 300 units @ Rs. 7. 50 per unit 30 Issued 250 units Prepare the Stores Ledger assuming that the issues are valued on FIFO and LIFO basis. Q. 8) Following details are available frOill the records or Amrut Ltd. For a month regarding the standard labour hours and rates of an hour for a product:Hours Rate per hour Total Rs. Rs. Skilled 10 3. 00 30. 00 Semi-skilled8 1. 50 12. 00 Unskilled16 1. 00 16. 00 _________________ 58. 00 The actual production for the product was 1,500 units for which the actual hours worked and rates were as follows: Hours Rate per hour Total Rs. Rs. Skilled 13,500 3. 50 47,250 Semi-skilled12,600 1. 0 22. 680 Unskilled30,000 1. 20 36. 000 (a)Labour Cost Variance (b)Labour Rate Variance (c)Labour Efficiency V ariance (d)Labour Mix Variance (e)Labour Cost Variance [15] Q~9) What do you mean by Elements of Cost? How the cost is classified into various elements of cost? Draft a standard format of a cost sheet for a machine tool manufacturing company. Make the necessary assumptions. [15] *********************************************************** Semester ? IOct 2007 [3278]-104 M. M. M.. ( Semester – I) Examination – 2007 MANAGERIAL ECONOMICS Time: 3 Hours] [Max. Marks: 70 Instructions: (1) Answer any five questions. (2) All questions carry equal marks. (3) Draw neat diagram wherever necessary. Q. l) What is Managerial Economics? State its nature, scope and applications. Q. 2) Explain Profit and Sales Maximization as an organisational goal. Q. 3) What is Demand Forecasting? Explain methods of demand forecasting for established product. Q. 4) State and explain the Law of Variable Proportions. Q. ) Why Perfect Competition is socially and economically justifiable? Q. 6) (A) Descri be the need for Government Intervention in the Market. (B) What are the advantages and disadvantages of Economic Liberalisation ? Q. 7) Write notes on: (Any Two) a) Types of Price Elasticity of Demand b) Support and Administered Prices c) Public Goods Vs. Private Goods d) Protection of Consumer's Interest ************************************************** Semester ? I Oct 2007 [3278]-105 M. M. M. (Semester – I) sem-2007 RESEARCH METHODOLOGY Time: 3 Hours] [Max. Marks: 70Instructions: (1) Question Nos. 1 and 6 are compulsory. (2) Attempt any three questions from the remaining. (3) Figures to the right indicate full marks. Q. l) Attempt any two of the following: [20] (a)What is Research? Explain the objectives and types of Research. (b)What is Scientific Method? Explain its relation to research. (c)Draw Histogram and Frequency Curve from the following data: X| 0-10| 10-20| 20-30| 30-40| 40-50| f| 8| 17| 25| 12| 6| Q. 2) (A) Explain the nature and scope of Social Research. [05] (B) What is Hypothesis? Explain the characteristics of a Hypothesis. 05] Q. 3) Explain the meaning, role and difficulties of ‘Interview' as a method of data collection. [10] Q. 4) Explain various steps involved in the analysis of data. [10] Q. 5) Explain the importance and sources of Secondary Data. [10] Q. 6) Write short notes on : (Any Four) [20] (a)Sampling Design (b)Sources of Errors (c)Scaling Techniques (d)Experimental Design (e)Use of Computers in Research (t)Tests of Sound Measurement ****************************************************************** Semester ? I Oct 2007 1 [3278]-106 M. M. M. (Semester – I) Examination ? 007 CONSUMER BEHAVIOUR [ Time: 3 Hours] [ Max. Mlarks : 70] Instructions: (1) Attempt any five questions. (2) All questions carry equal marks. Q. l) How is the field of Consumer Behaviour defined? What are the major uses or applications of understanding Consumer Behaviour? Q. 2) . Explain the demographic and psychological factors influencing co nsumer behaviour with relevant examples. Q. 3) Discuss the role of personality and self-concept in Shaping Consumer Behaviour. Q. 4) What is meant by Motive Hierarchy? How does ~1aslow's Hierarchy of needs fUnction?.Q. 5) Define Consumer Satisfaction. What is the r~lationship between Consumer Satisfaction, Repeat Purchase and Committed Customer. Q. 6) How does consumer decision-maki. llg change as purchase involvement increases? Q:7) Write short notes on any two: a) Consumerism b) Effect of Culture and Subculture on Indian Consumer ————————————————- c) Components of Attitude. Semester ? I Total No. of questions :6 MAY 2007 Total no. of printed pages 2 3178-201 MMM(semester-II)Examination -2007 201:Service Marketing New course) Time 3 hours Max Marks 70 Instructions: 1) Answer any TWO question out of Q1 TO Q4 each carry equal mark 2)Q5 & Q6 are compulsory, each carry 20 marks 3) use examples, model etc. Q 1)liberalization privatization and globalization has propelled growth of services sector in India in 5-6 years ,Do you agree with the statement ? justify your answer. Q 2) In financial services marketing process and physical evidence are very important discuss this statement giving suitable examplesQ 3) what is services marketing segmentation ? discuss and elaborate as to how segmentation and positioning is achived in tourism marketing . Q 4) billjunctin. com is an e-bill pay service of icici bank, which has proved to be very successful , compared to physical bill payment collection service. Which distribution strategies of these services , do you think have made this billjunction. com successful ? why? Q 5) write short notes on any four (a) services blue print (b) SERVQAL and GAP model (c) four I s of services (d) advertising and sale promotion in service industry. (e) requirements for customer retension in service industry f) KPO Q6) Case study: The new incombent to the office of the Cheife General Manager of the Muncipal Transportation is wondering how to make the operation profitabal. He has jotted some of his finding about the current state of affairs. ?The Municipal Trasportation has alarge, ageing fleet of buses. Induction of new buses is a case is acase of ? too late-too few? ?The geographical expanse of the city it serve is big. city areas have several government office , hospitals and educational institute , not to mention huge residential unites employing a large number citizens of the city and adjoining suburbs. The ratio of number of employees to a vehicle operated by the trasport matches unfavourably with the standard norms, ie to say the trasport is over staffed. Inspite of thise, in the opinion of public the buses are not clean break down frequently and do not stick to a time-table. Business, the ? staff? of the trasport is infamously known for being rude. ?A recent survey has showed that (rather surprisingly to the Chief G M)most computer will like and prefer to travel by the Municiple Transport , rather than using their personal trasport means (cars motorcycle etc ) They only only hope, the fares will be low. ———————————————— The Chief General Manager has appointed you, as marketing manager of this muncipal transport. Present a detailed scheme for successful marketing of this public transport system. Semester ? II Total No. of questions :5 MAY 2007 Total no. of printed pages 1 3178-202 MMM(semester-II)Examination -2007 202:RETAIL MARKETING (New course) Time 3 hours Max Marks 70 Instructions: 1) ALLquestion are compulsory 2) each carry equal markQ1) Describe in detail the characteristic of atleast six different types of Retailers Q2)Explain giving all relevant detail , the factors considered in planning retail store layout and also the interiors designing . Q3)choose any high profile retailer like shooperstop / big bazaar known to you. Describe in detail who they use store based, merchandise based, retail marketing communication in the form of advertising and point of sell promotional materials. Q4)The competition between traditional retailer and ultra modern super market that occupy about 40000 sq ft floor area , is generating debates presently in society.Do you belive that traditional retailers will continue to prosper in such competition? Justify your answer discussing all aspect involved in detail. 5)Write short notes on all of the following a) retail store organized by district wise consumers cooperative society which also has network of some branches in villages. b) Bar coding method and its use ————————————————- c)Managing Reverse Logistic in retail . Semester ? II Total No. of questions :8 MAY 2007 Total no. of printed pages 2 3178-203 MMM(semester-II)Examination -2007 03:SALES MANAGEMENT AND PERSONAL SELLING (New course) Time 3 hours Max Marks 70 Instructions: 1) Answer any 5 question 2) each carry equal mark Q1) Explain why sells management is consider as an important function? Q2) compare top down and bottom up approach and explain weather they should give sells manager the some figure of the company sell forecast. Q3)What is sells budgets ? What are the purposes of sells budgets ? What procedure is typically followed by a company to prepair its sales budgets?Q4) What are sales quotas and why its important for a sales manager to sets quota? s for sale people? Q5)(a)Why line sales organization is not suited to a large organization (b) Which type of basic organization structure would you recommend for a large company operating globally and trying to gain greater customer responsive ness and efficiencies ? Q6)What are measure stages in the sells force staffing process? Which activity or part is considered by sell s managers as the most difficult in the entire staffing process and why? Q7)(a)Briefly describe the procedure for designing sales territory b)Why a good number of companies are in inceasingly using assessment centers as a tool of selection process? Q8)(a)What is the difference bet a prospect ,suspect and sales lead ? ————————————————- (b)how sells people understand prospect need? Semester ? II Total No. of questions :7 MAY 2007 Total no. of printed pages 1 3178-204 MMM(semester-II)Examination -2007 204:DISTRIBUTION AND LOGISTIC MANAGEMENT (New course) Time 3 hours Max Marks 70Instructions: 1) ALLquestion are compulsory 2) each carry equal mark Q1)Identify and explain the various entities (things) that flow between a supplier and a customer during physical distribution. Q2) Discuss with the help of appropriate example : ? Middlemen are necessary evils.? Q3) Present and just ify a scheme of distribution channel for each of the following: (a)High-tech High-value industrial products (b)Bio-technology based Product to Boost Agriculture Yield (c)Low-price Readymade Cloth Q4) Discuss the Role of information Technology in Logistics , quoting suitable examples.Q5) Describe the scope and significance of supply chain management. Q6) Identify various opportunities for controlling the cost in a distribution channel. Q7)Write short note on any two: (a)Channel Leadership (b)Changing Nature of retail business ————————————————- (c)Global Marketing Channels. Semester ? II Total No. of questions :7 MAY 2007 Total no. of printed pages 1 3178-205 MMM(semester-II)Examination -2007 205:MARKET RESEARCH (New course) Time 3 hours Max Marks 70Instructions: 1) Attempt any 5 question 2) each carry equal mark Q1) ? Market Research is a vary important tool for the decisio n makers of today in the Corporate Indian Environment.? Discuss and analyse. Q2) What are the steps in setting up and implementing a Marketing Research Project? Q3)Design a questionnaire for exploring possibility of launching a new English Daily in the State of Mharashtra. Q4) What do you understand by Sampling ? Explain Non-probability Sampling Technique with appropriate examples. Q5)What do you understand by Scaling Technique?Different Rating and ranking scale with appropriate example. Q6) Formulate a Research Design for potential assessment study for exterior domestic paint in rural area of Maharashtra and Gujarat Q7) Write short note (a)Dos and Dont for the questionnaire formulation (b)Retail audit (c)Ethics in marketing ————————————————- (d)Types of Rearch Data Semester ? II Total No. of questions :6 MAY 2007 Total no. of printed pages 2 3178-206 MMM(semester-II)Exami nation -2007 206:Relationship Marketing (New course)Time 3 hours Max Marks 70 Instructions: 1) Answer any TWO question out of Q1 TO Q4 each carry equal mark 2)Q5 & Q6 are compulsory, each carry 20marks 3) use examples, model etc. Q1)Outline the various factor which have influanced the Evolution of Transection-based into the Relationship-based Marketing. Q2)Explain in details the inter-linkinges among the rececy , frequency and lifetime value consepts. Quote examples, in support of your view point. Q3) ?A loyal customer, usually is more benificial to a firm , though new customer have to be aquired.? Disscuss quoting approriate examples. Q4)Discuss how the Information Technology affects the building and strengthening of relationship in the marketing context. Cite examples. Q5)write short notes On any four: (a)Decision making Process (b)Partnering (c) Intarnal Marketing (d) Barriers to Switching (e) CRM Consept (f) Value Of Complaints. —————â€⠀Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€- Q6)Assume you are In Charge of a Delership Business Firm. You belive that by retaining customer you enhaance the firm profitablity.You therefore, plan to get the support of all the internal / external stake-holders (domains) of your business to build alasting relationship with the customer(market). Present a detailed scheme for this purpose. You may assume a product/ service offering of your choice. Semester ? II [3278]-201 M. M. M. (Semester.. II) Examination.. 2007 SERVICES MARKETING Time: 3 Hours] [Max. Marks: 70 Instructions: (1) Attempt any five questions. (2) All questions carry equal marks. Q. l) Explain in details, which aistribution strategies you will adopt for ‘ServiceMarketing' ? Q. 2) â€Å"Service Blueprints, Service Mapping and Managing Employees for ‘Service Orientations' are pillars on which building of ‘Service Industry' rely upon. † Do you agree with this s tatement? Quote examples in support of your answer. Q. 3) Write an essay on ‘Role of Advertising and Sales Promotion' in Service Industry. Q. 4) Which issues are involved in ‘Marketing of Services' ? How you will solve those issues? Q. 5) Which are the ‘Distinctive Characteristics' of Services? Also explain 4 I's of Services. Q. 6) How you will market ‘Charities Services† and ‘Technological Services' ?In support of your answer, quote practical examples. [3278]-201 1 P. T. O Q. 7) Write short notes on any three: a) Social Services of Non-profit Organization b) GAP Model c) Handling of Services Complaints d) Nature of Services e) M~keting Mix in Service Industry ————————————————- Semester ? II Oct 2007 [3278]-202 M. M. M. (Semester – II) Examination – 2007 RETAIL MARKETING.. Time: 3 Hours] [Max. Marks: 70 Instructions: 1 ) Ai l questions are compulsory. (2) Every question carries fourteen marks. Q. l) Explain in details the factors that must be considered for the site selection of Retail Store. [14] Q. 2) Selecting the variety of products that constitute the entire merchandise and also managing efficiently the inventory of these products: these are critically important for success in Retailing. Do you agree? Justify your answer by giving all relevant details and suitable examples. [14] Q. 3) Describe in details, how the application of Information Technology has improved the following operations in Retailing:[14] )Just in Time R~plenishment of Stocks 2)Rapid Adaptation to Change in Market Trends 3)Category Management Q. 4) Explain in details the following concepts :[14] 1) Retailers are the most important source for getting the vital feed back given by the ultimate consumers. 2) Majority of Retailers have prospered by effectively implementing: ‘Proximity Retailing'. Give suitable examples. 3) Specia lity Retailers like Dass Electronics; Sony Exclusive Show Rooms, P. N. Gadgil Jewellers etc. have become popular by skillfully practising: ‘Destination Retailing'. Q.S) Write short notes on all of the following: (a) Managing IN-store Promotions [05] (b) Quick Response Inventory Planning [05] ( c) Category Management[04] ****************************************************** Semester ? II Oct 2007 [3278]-203 M. M. M. (Semester – II) Examination ? 2007 SALES MANAGEMENT AND PERSONAL SELLING Time: 3 Hours] [Max. Marks: 70 Instructions: ( 1) Solve any five questions. (2) All questions carry equal marks. Q. ) (A) What is Sales Management? (B) Describe any one of the- qualitative -methods of sales forecasting and ndicate its advantages and disadvantages. Q. 2) What is a Sales Budget? What are- the purposes of the Sales Budget? What procedure is typically followed by a company to prepare. its sales budget? Q. 3) (A) What is a Sales Territory ? (B) How should a Sales Manager ass ign sales people to territories? Q. 4) Explain the methods used by companies for setting sales quotas. Q. 5) What are the basic concepts of a Sales Organisation? Explain anyone of those concepts. Q. 6) Why many companies have developed separate organisation structures and marketing programmes for major accounts?What alternative organisational methods are available for Sales Managers for dealing effectively with major customers? Q. 7) Mention various internal and external sources used by companies for locating and identifying the prospective candidates? Why employee referral programmes or schemes are becoming one of the most popular methods of locating sales recruits? Q. 8) (A) How Relationship Selling is different than Transaction Oriented Selling? (B)In what manner the approach step is different than the pre-approach step? Describe briefly different approach techniques used by sales people? ************************************************************************** Semester ? II Oct 2007 [3278]-204 M. M. M. (Semester – II) Examination ? 2007 DISTRIBUTION MANAGEMENT AND LOGISTICS Time: 3 Hours] [Max. Marks: 70 Instructions: (1) Answer any five questions. (2) All questions carry equal marks. Q l) Explain the terms: Physical Distribution, Logistics, Supply Chain. Discuss their role in Marketing. Q. 2) What is Wholesaling? What functions do wholesalers perform? Outline various decision areas in wholesaling. Q. 3) Discuss various components of Physical Distribution System and explain heir impact on cost and customer service levels. Q. 4) Discuss various channel options available to a fmn selling photocopying machines nationally. Explain the functions to be carried out by every member of the channel. Q. 5) Design a marketing channel for the distribution of anyone of the following: (1) Mutual Funds (2) Pre-paid Mobile Phone Cards (3) Advertising Space in a Newspaper Q. 6) (A)What is a Consumer Panel? (B) How will you carry out Test Marketing for a new soft dri nk ? (C) Explain Focus Group Interviews. Q. 7) Highlight various applications areas of Marketing Research. ********************************************************** Semester ? II Oct 2007 [3278J.. 205 M. M. M~ (Semester – II}' Examination – 2007 Marketing Research Time: 3 Hours] [Max. Marks: 70 Instruction: 1) Attempt any five questions. 2) All questions carry equal marks. Q. 1 a) Define Market Research. b) Sate and explain various limitations of Market Research. Q. 2a) Which are the various sources of Marketing data? b) Describe various methods of Primary Data Collection. Q. 3a) What is the Questionnaire? b) What are the characteristics of good questionnaire? ) What are the advantage and demerits of Questionnaire Methods? Q. 4Explain probability and Non-probability sampling techniques/sampling methods. How will you design the sample? Q. 5Write short notes on : (Any Two) a) Primary Data ? Advantages and limitations b) Secondary Data – Advantages and limitations c) National Readership survey d) Retail Store Audit Q. 6a) What is consumer panel? b) How will you carry out Test Marketing for a new soft drink? c) Explain Focus Group Interviews ————————————————- Q. 7Highlight various applications areas of Marketing research. Semester ? IIOct 2007 [3278J.. 206 M. M. M~ (Semester – II}' Examination – 2007 RELATIONSHIP MARKETING Time: 3 Hours] [Max. Marks: 70 Instructions: (1) Q. Nos. 1 and 6 are compulsory and carry 20 marks each. (2) Attempt any two questions from among the Q. No. 2 to 5. Each of these questions, carries 15 marks. Q. l) Write notes on any four: (a)Customer Profitability (b)Database of Customers (c)Customer Orientation (d)Value of Complaints (e)RFM (t)Mass Customization Q. 2) For a firm having a small portfolio of products, identify the multiple market domains.How will the careful cultivation of these domai ns, lead to success in the customer market? Q. 3) How is physical distribution system benefitted by the use of Relationship Marketing Principles? Explain describing situations in corporate world. Q. 4) Examine the Contribution of Information Technology to the practice of Relationship Marketing. Q. S) Describe the evolving scenario of customer bonding. How will you Classify the companies on the basis of their promptness in bonding the customers? Q. 6) Managing Director of YANTRA Ltd. ad recently attended a profitability- related workshop by a leading management consultant. He is particularly impressed by the necessity to manage the Internal Markets of an organization to ensure a deeper (positive) impact on customers of the company. YANTRA Ltd. has a 6-tier organization structure, 10 departments, 10 managers 50 officers, 100 supervisors, 500 workmen. As a relationship marketinl consultant, you are to develop a plan to enhance the internal environment so as to impact the customer marke ts. [Your Managing Director suggests, you can start with ‘System-Culture- ————————————————-Communication' triad. ] Semester ? III Total no of question :6 Total no pages:3 [3178]-301 May 2007 M. M. M (semester ? III) examination ? 2007 INTERNATIONAL MARKETING (New course) Time : 3 HoursMax Marks: 70 Instruction 1) Question No 6 case study is compulsory. 2) Attempt any three question from Q 1 to Q 5. 3) Figures to the right indicate marks. Q1) what are the Objective of International Marketing? What are its challenging aspects? Q2) As far as packaging and leveling is concerned what are the adaptation required to be done for products in international market? What are the compelling and voluntary reason?Q 3) Explain various possible distribution channels in International marketing? Q 4) Explain the importance of INCOTERMS. Discuss various INCOTERMS 2000 from the point of view of cost and responsibility implications. Q 5) write short notes on any four: a) Political risk b) Impact of culture in International marketing c) Joint venture as an Entry strategy d) Indian MNEs e) Data collection problems in International marketing research f) Global retailer Q 6) Case study ? Coca cola: On June 13, 1999 Coca cola recalled over 15 million cans and bottles after the Belgian Health Ministry announced a ban on Coke? drinks, which were suspected of making more than 100 school children ill in the preceding six days. This recall was in addition to the 2. 5 million bottles that had already been recalled in the previous week. The company? s products had been bottled in Antwerp, Ghent and Wilrijk, Belgium, while some batches were also produced in Dunkirk, France. Children in 6 schools in Belgium had complained of headache, nausea, vomiting and shivering which ultimately led to hospitalization after drinking coke beverage. Most of them reported an Unusual Odor and off taste in the drink.In the same week, the Governments of France, Spain and Luxembourg also banned coke? s products while coke? s Dutch arm recalled all products that had come from its Belgium plant. The entire episode left more than 200 Belgians and French school children ill. The company had to assure its British customers that the products made in its UK factories were safe. By June 15, 1999 coke had recalled about 30 million cans and bottles, the largest ever recall in its 113 year history. For the first time, the entire inventories of coke? s products from one country were banned from sale.As part of a damage control exercise, coke sent a team of scientists to Europe. The CEO Micha Douglas apologized to its European customers. Coke Belgium announced that it would reimburse the medical costs for the ill. The recall had a significant negative impact coming down by 21% to $ 942 mn. Moreover, the entire operation cost coke $ 103 mn while its European bottling venture showed a 5% fall in revenues. Analysts felt that the Belgium recall was one of the worst public relations problems in coke? s history. It was alleged that the company had information about people who had become ill weeks prior to the above incidents.Coke had an opportunity to disclose this information; but chose not to do so and was accused of being unethical. Another issue that worried analysts was the illness causes to the innocent school children. They blamed coke? s promotion strategy to sell soft drinks to school children, which had raised a lot of controversies in the U. S. After the crisis, coke investigated the problem by testing the suspect batches for chemicals. The company claimed that the test showed nothing toxic in the beverages. The company said that there had been separate errors in two plants.The products from Antwerp plant had a strange odor as some fungicide had accidently fallen on the exterior of the cans. In addition, they had determined that the strange taste was the result o f a sub-standard gas used to carbonate the product Analysts said that coke had not handled the situation well and its media message was confusing, inconsistent and muddled. Coke alternately claimed that pesticide residue on the can or bottle or a bad batch of carbon-di-oxide was to be blamed for the off taste. On the other hand, the company also insisted that there was never any health threat. A company spokesman assured consumers, ?It may make you feel sick, but it is not harmful?. In August, 1999, the European commission reprimanded coke, asserting that the company had not cooperated adequately and its explanations were not entirely satisfactory. It also said that errors were committed in the selection of plant or the dosage of extracts in coke? s own concentrate. While no deaths were linked to the coke problems, it had a significant negative impact on the public confidence in Europe. 1) Analyse the case from the perspective of ethical issues involved in country risk analysis. 2) ————————————————-Analyse the actions taken by Coke during and ager the crisis Semester ? III Total no of question :7 Total no pages:1 [3178]-302 May 2007 M. M. M (semester ? III) examination ? 2007 MARKETING AND THE LAWS (New course) Time : 3 HoursMax Marks: 70 Instruction 1) Attempt any five questions. 2) All question carry equal marks. Q. 1) Define Proposal. What are the legal rules for valid proposal? Explain with illustrations. Q. 2) Define conditions and warranties in a contract of Sale. What are implied conditions and implied warranties? Q. 3) What are the various modes of creation of Agency? What are the rights of agents against the principal?Q. 4) Explain ? Infringement of copyright? and civil & criminal remedies provided under the act. Q. 5) Explain the scope of IT Act, 2000 and also the following terms; (1) Electronic Governance (2) Hacking with computer syst em Q. 6) Who is a (a) Consumer? (b) Complainant (c) Unfair trade practice Q. 7) Write notes on: (Any Two) (a) Registration of trade mark (b) Define manufacturer, Dealer and Retailer under V. A. T. Act. (c) Undue Influence (d) ————————————————- Extent of Agents Authority Semester ? III Total no of question :7 Total no pages:1 [3178]-303 May 2007M. M. M (semester ? III) examination ? 2007 FINANCIAL SERVICES MARKETING (New course) Time : 3 HoursMax Marks: 70 Instruction 1) Attempt any five questions. 2) All question carry equal marks. Q. 1) What is ? Venture Capital How does it help the enterprise? Q. 2) What are the trends now in Housing Finance? How consumer is benefitted? Q. 3) ? Globalization of Indian Economy since 1991-92 onwards has helped India to develop faster in all respects.? Do you agree? Explain in detail. Q. 4) What is mutual fund? How does it help the small in vestors in present time? Q. 5) What is the ? Merchant BankingWhat are the different services offered to the entrepreneurs? Q. 6) What is Insurance Regulatory Development Authority? How does it help the consumer? Q. 7) Write short notes on any two: (a) Credit Card (b) Retail Banking (c) Mergers and Acquisitions (d) Life Policies and its Valuation ————————————————- Semester ? III Total no of question :6 Total no pages:1 [3178]-304 May 2007 M. M. M (semester ? III) examination ? 2007 INTEGRATED MARKETING COMMUNICATION (New course) Time : 3 HoursMax Marks: 70 Instruction 1) Q. 1 is compulsory and carries ten marks . 2) Solve any four from Q. 2 to Q. , each carrying 15 marks Q. 1) Describe in ten sentences whether advertising is a communication tool and what is its role in marketing communication? Q. 2) Comment on the Advertisement on Adidas shown during the world cup football in more than 250 words. Q. 3) What is Media Planning? What is its significance? Q. 4) Discuss the organisation of an Advertising Agency. Q. 5) Discuss the Marketing Mix of ? Nescafe.? Q. 6) Write short notes: (Any Three) (a) Essentials of a Good Copy. (b) Type of Appeals. (c) Ethics in Marketing Communications (d) ————————————————- Tools of Trade Promotions.Semester ? III Total no of question :9 Total no pages:1 [3178]-305 May 2007 M. M. M (semester ? III) examination ? 2007 RETAIL AND OPERATIONS MANAGEMENT (New course) Time : 3 HoursMax Marks: 60 Instruction 1) Attempt any six questions. 2) All question carry equal marks. Q. 1) Define Marketing Channel and explain how Consumer Marketing Channels differ from Industrial and Services Channels. Q. 2) Explain the purpose of Physical Distribution and briefly describe various components of Physical Distribution. Q. 3) What do yo u mean by Channel Management? Explain various types of Marketing Channels. Q. )Define the terms Retailer, Retailing and Retail Management and explain types of Store and Non-store Retailing. Q. 5) Demonstrate the importance of Store Location and outline the process and types of Store locations with factors influencing decision. Q. 60 Define Interior Store Layout and Explain the steps you follow to plan a good Store Layout. Q. 7) Define Interior Store Atmosphere and briefly describe the elements of Interior Store Atmosphere. Q. 8) Explain the purpose of Retail Communication and elaborate the elements of Retail Communication Mix. Q. 9) Write short notes on any four: (a) New Trends in Retailing b) International Marketing Channel (c) Channel Conflicts (d) Bar Coding (e) Role of IT in Retailing (f) ————————————————- Manufacturer Brands Vs Private Brands Semester ? III Total No. of Questions: 7] [Total No. of Printed Pages: 1 [3178]- 401 May 2007 M. M. M. (Semester-IV) Examination – 2007 BRAND MANAGEMENT (New Course) Time: 3 Hours] [Max. Marks: 70 Instructions : 1) Attempt any five questions. ) All questions carry equal marks. 3) Cite examples wherever necessary. Q. 1) Explain the Concept of Branding. Describe the scope of branding in the evolving markets. Q. 2) Discuss the concept and significance of Brand Equity. Q. 3) Identify major areas of Branding Decisions. Which considerations will impact the decisions? Q. 4) ? Customer Satisfaction? is often called as Mirage. How can it be achieved through Branding? Q. 5) What is a Power Brand? Discuss its features. Q. 6) Write a critical note on the future of FMCG brands in India. Q. 7) Write notes on any two: ) Product Image and Brand Image b) Trade Marks c) Brand Architecture d) ———————————————— - Brand Positioning Semester ? IV Total No. of Questions: 7] [Total No. of Printed Pages: 1 [3178]- 402 May 2007 M. M. M. (Semester-IV) Examination – 2007 STRATEGIC MARKETING (New Course) Time: 3 Hours] [Max. Marks: 70 Instructions : 1) Attempt any five questions. 2) All questions carry equal marks. Q. ) What is Strategy? Outline the steps in the formation of strategy for a business firm. Q. 2) Discuss the concept and the objectives of Strategic Marketing Management. Q. 3) Using the Porter? s Five Forces Model for reference, discuss the current competitive environment in an industrial sector of your choice. Q. 4) Critically examine the process of strategy evaluation in the context of marketing function. What is utility of the evaluation process? Q. 5) A new aviation company is taking shape through the takeover of a ? low profile, low fare? air-line by a ? high-profile? air-line.What sort of positioning strategy will be suitable for the new company? Explain your view-point. Q. 6) Discuss the various pricing strategies along with their merits, demerits and application areas. Q. 7) Write notes on any two: a) BCG Portfolio Matrix b) GE of Cell Matrix c) Distribution through retail-malls d) ————————————————- ?Tows? Matrix Semester ? IV Total No. of Questions: 7] [Total No. of Printed Pages: 1 [3178]- 403 May 2007 M. M. M. (Semester-IV) Examination – 2007EXPORT DOCUMENTATION AND FOREX MANAGEMENT (New Course) Time: 3 Hours] [Max. Marks: 70 Instructions : 3) Attempt any five questions. 4) All questions carry equal marks. Q. 1) Discuss in detail the importance of Documentary Credits in International Business. Bring out the salient features of the UCPDC. Q. 2) Write about the advantages and disadvantages of Exporting as a strategy. Q. 3) Give in details the methodology adopted by an exporter to set up his export business.Also comment on the role of various government agencies in helping him do so. Q. 4) What do you understand by the terms ? Regulatory ? and ? commercial? documents? Give a list of all documents used in International Business in details. Q. 5) Describe the role of various government institutions in promoting experts from India. Write about the role of the EXIM Bank in details. Q. 6) Give in details the process of insurance of goods for Exports. Also mention various types of insurances available to exporters. Q. 7) Write short notes: (Any Two) a) Export Promotion Councils (b) G. S. P (c) Bills of Exchange (d) Back to Back Letter of Credit ————————————————- (e) Sports and Discount Rates Semester ? IV Total No. of Questions: 6] [Total No. of Printed Pages: 1 [3178]- 404 May 2007 M. M. M. (Semester-IV) Examination – 2007 DIRECT MARKETING (New Course) Time: 3 Hours] [Max. Marks: 70 Instructions : 5) Question No. 5. is compulsory. ) Solve any three questions out of the remaining.. Q. 1) Explain the term ? Integrated Marketing Communication? (IMC). How it is different from a Traditional Marketing Communication? Q. 2) Discuss the role and significance of Exhibitions and Trade Fares in the Marketing Communication. Prepare a check-list for organizing the exhibition. Q. 3) A renowned Multinational Company wants to launch its new product in Pune. Design a complete marketing communication programme for this event. (Make and clearly mention necessary assumption wherever necessary) Q. 4) What is ? Corporate CommunicationsWhat are the pre-requisite qualities for a successful corporate communication professional? Q. 5) (A) Comment on increasing use of Technology in the Corporate Presentations. (B) Explain advantages and disadvantage of Direct Marketing. (C) Write a note on ? Press Conference and Press Releases? Q. 6) Write short notes on: (Any Two) (a) Customer Presentations (b) Role of Body Language and Voice Modulations in Corporate Presentations ————————————————- (c) Sales Promotion Brochures Semester ? IV Total No. of Questions: 7] [Total No. f Printed Pages: 1 [3178]- 405 May 2007 M. M. M. (Semester-IV) Examination – 2007 INDUSTRIAL MARKETING (New Course) Time: 3 Hours] [Max. Marks: 70 Instructions : 7) Attempt any five questions. 8) All questions carry equal marks. Q. 1) Present an overview of Industrial Marketing System. Q. 2) What are the Characteristics of Organizational Customers? How does a seller to the buyer? s strength, to succeed in the exchange process? Q. 3) Explain the Interpersonal Dynamics of Industrial Buying.Q. 4) How are the Inducts Products ideally distributed in the market? How is the issue of channel leadership resolved? Q. 5) Critically examine the pricing decision, regarding the Industrial Products. Q. 6) Discuss the me thodology for successfully entering and surviving an International Market with Industrial Products Portfolio. Q. 7) Write notes on any two: (a) Positioning of Industrial Products (b) Segmentation of Industrial Markets (c) Reseller? s Market ————————————————- (d) Economics of Industrial Demand Semester ? IV Total No. f Questions: 6] [Total No. of Printed Pages: 1 [3178]- 406 May 2007 M. M. M. (Semester-IV) Examination -2007 RURAL AND AGRICULTURE MARKETING (New Course) Time: 3 Hours] [Max. Marks: 70 Instructions : (1) Question No. 1 is compulsory. Attempt any three of the remaining questions. (2) Figures to the right indicate marks for that question. (3) Give examples wherever necessary. Q. 1) (A) Suggest the Marketing Mix for a new brand f organic manure ? UTKARSHA? for All India Marketing to be launched in the next three months. [15] (B) Write short notes on any two: [10] a) Supporting Services for Export of Farm Products b) Training and Research in Agricultural Marketing c) Differences in Agricultural and Industrial Marketing Q. 2) Discuss the scope and limitations of Rural Marketing in India. [15] Q. 3) Critically analyze the role of Agriculture in the Economic Development of India. [15] Q. 4) Describe the emerging branches of Agri-business with special reference to the food [15]Processing Industry. Q. 5) (A) Explain the concept of Co-operative Marketing. [06] (B) Examine the reasons for slow progress of Co-operative Sector in India. [09] Q. 6) (A) Give the source for Marketing Information with reference to Agricultural [06] Marketing. (B) ————————————————- Write a note on ? Role of Government in Agricultural Development. [09] Total No. of Questions: 7] [Total No. of Printed Pages: 1 [3178]- 401 M. M. M. (Semester-IV) Examination – 2007

M Analysis

Introduction Marks & Spencer is a British retailer with over 800 stores in more than 30 countries around the world. It is the largest clothing retailer in the UK, as well as being a food retailer. Most of its domestic stores sell both clothing & food, and since the year  2000 Marks & Spencer have started to expand into other ranges such as home wares, furniture & technology. Marks & Spencer became the first British retailer to make a pre-tax profit of over ?   billion â€Å"BBC News online 1998† Though a few years later Marks & Spencer were hit  by the â€Å"credit crunch† which has had a dramatic effect on the company as they struggle in the current economical climate. M&S is a successful company. In macro-environment, M&S obeys the government and protects the natural environment. Moreover, M&S is influenced by the factors of economic, social, and technological to make its business strategies. On the other hand, in micro-environment, the M&S has created a good an d long-term relationship with the suppliers and customers.From the SWOT analysis, the most important factor for M&S is to satisfy customer needs. On the other hand, the main disadvantage is the lack of clothing market segmentation that causes M&S to lose its brand awareness among the existing customers. The significant strategies of M&S are creating potential customers and maintaining the existing customers. To sum up, the analysis of M&S has found that its business structures follow the trend of society, keep the position in the market, and increase its potential market share. MissionThe mission of the M&S is to make as high quality accessible to all. Marks & Spencer is a leading British retailer of clothing, food and household goods. They prefer to call themselves â€Å"Marks & Spencer,† using an ampersand instead of the word â€Å"and. † Their logo is a style form of the characters â€Å"M&S. † They have a â€Å"Plan A† for tackling environmental issue s â€Å"because there is no plan B. † M&S outlines its core business as clothing and Food. Its’ financial objectives is to deliver shareholder value in terms of increase returns, but also in terms of increase sales and market share in retailing.It beliefs and values are outlined as â€Å"Our customers continue to see Marks & Spencer as the place to shop for special food, produced to exacting standards†. M&S also sees its workforce as an important part of its plan and also considers modern its stores as a key corporate objective. Vision The vision of the M&S is to be the standard against which all others are measured. They sells clothes, food and home wares at more than 650 stores in Britain and about 300 shops abroad, said it expected to achieve annual benefits of around 250 million pounds by 2015-2016 from upgrading its supply chain and information technology systems.They will supply chain and IT improvements. The improvements will include shrinking the firm's network of 100 warehouses, which are run by third parties, to just four. And also to revamp its website and said it would expand its business abroad, including at least 50 stores in India over five years. They have established a long-term vision for where we want to take the business which they believe will create long-term sustainable growth. At the heart of this vision is moving the business from being product focused, store centric and UK dominated to being customer focused, multi-channel and international.M would conduct a review of its UK store network in the light of fast-growing online retail sales, with future new store likely to be offset at least in part by closures. They plan to cutting prices, stepping up promotions and introducing new products, add 800 new lines to sustain the recent improvement, including extending a trial to sell a small number of brands. They think the strong growth potential in children swear and footwear as well as home wares. PESTLE Political Fact orsThe government sets regulations for companies to abide by such as Health & Safety British Standards such as, planning for hazard identification, risk assessment and risk  control. If companies do not abide by these regulations they will be fined or even in some cases be forced to close down. Marks & Spencer did not abide by the British Standards as they were charged for neglecting health & safety regulations after a door  fell on an employee. George Blair was allegedly injured after a warehouse door in their store near Glasgow was left hanging on loose fixtures.Marks are alleged to have ignored repair requests, allowing the door to fall in to disrepair. Marks & Spencer pled not guilty to this; there is still no outcome of this trial. Also according to â€Å"BBC News 30th January 2006† Marks & Spencer would be the first major retailer to go down the Fair-trade route on both clothing and food. The fair-trade policy, which they have launched will include, cut salt and fa t in M foods, recycled packaging and animal welfare protection. Marks & Spencer Chief Stuart Rose stated, â€Å"Customers want good value, but they care more than ever how food and clothing products are made†.Economical Factors Currently the economic outlook is very uncertain and this is more than likely to affect retail sales, as people do not have the spare cash to spend on luxury items such as clothing and food luxuries. Marks & Spencer have been hit by this and have recently closed a number of stores and have had to make job cuts of 2% of their 70,000 staff. And also to show what affect the recession has had, they took the decision to have two days of 20% discounts in the run-up to Christmas.They have also recently introduced a 20% of all Wine and Champagne to keep up with their competitors. Marks & Spencer have had to change the way they market themselves so that they can try and stay ahead of the recession. Sociological factors In the last few years society has changed. In 2006 as stated by the Guardian, Chief  Executive of Marks & Spencer Stuart Rose wanted to stretch the company brand, for  example he considered selling food online as part of a plan to become a multi-channel retailer, this was obviously to keep up with the competitive market such as Asda.Asda and Marks & Spencer appeal to different markets in terms of social class and other demographics; this has a major influence on the way they respond to current issues. In response to the current cheap clothing industry supermarkets have increasingly over the last few years caught up with fashion trends, helping them to rival the high street clothing stores with their less expensive versions. Marks & Spencer is no exception to this and they have bought their clothing ranges up to date to keep up with the latest trends and to keep their customers interested.Consumer purchases are influenced by cultural, social, personal and psychological characteristics. For the most  part, marketers can not control such factors, but they must take them into account. Technological Factors Technology is vital in the retail market. Companies must manage their brand scare. First the brands position must be continuously communicated to consumers. Major brand marketers often spend huge amounts on advertising to create brand awareness and to build preference and loyalty.For Marks & Spencer to continuously communicate to consumers they need to be heavily into advertising, which they are. They have Celebrity icon Class as the Face of Marks & Spencer who appears on the adverts on the TV and she is also on their website model the M clothing, so their adverts appeal to women not only in their 20’s but also to the more mature lady so they are covering all areas with their advertising campaign. Also their  website is very appealing with bright and very easy to use, it is also constantly updated with the new M brands. Legal Factors Legislations are always changing.Marks and Spencer carry out re-training & update every year, they keep up to date with new laws or legislations, and with issues regarding Health & Safety they also ensure that their legal protection is updated. For  re-training Marks & Spencer invite business changes to the business, tax changes to the business & products changes amongst many other things. Marks & Spencer invite objectives/methods that need to be changed and new training, and also on going development. An example of legislation is the â€Å"Fair Packaging and Labeling Act (1996) – Provided for the regulation of packaging and labeling of consumer goods.Requires that manufacturers state what the package contains, who made it, and how much it contains†. Here is an example from Marks & Spencer’s website to show that they are adhere to this legislation, â€Å"Packaging helps to protect the product between being produced and used by the customer. It prevents product wastage, carries important instructions and informatio n on ingredients and helps the product look its best in the store†. Environmental Factors With the current environmental climate as it stands, issues are being promoted daily on the television, in magazines and newspapers and on the radio.All companies, industries and organizations are being pressured to change their ways when it comes to the materials they use and how they manufacture. Marks & Spencer have established their own Green Policy which they call â€Å"Plan A† The chief executive of  Marks & Spencer states that it is called this because there is no â€Å"Plan B†. Marks has today announced a 100-point five-year plan to re-engineer itself to become a carbon neutral, zero-waste-to-landfill, ethical-trading, sustainable-sourcing, health-promoting business SWOT 3. 1 Strengths 3. 1. 1 High QualityHigh quality is the major strength that makes M successful. Customers always find high quality goods such as fresh fruits, vegetables, and other superior goods i n M food hall (Ciao, 2002). With many people turning to eat vegetarian meals. M grasps the consumers need. M has high quality of products that are the food and other products, such as baby products and women under wears. 3. 1. 2 Customer Services M has high reputation for focusing on customer service. (Christie, 2002). This is one of the most important methods to make a good relationship between customers and M.For example, when women want to buy under wears for themselves, the shop assistants will help them to measure sizes and give them good suggestions. 3. 1. 3 Shopping Environment M tries to make customers feel more convenient and comfortable. It makes stores brighter, and uses modern designs (Rung 2001). All goods in the shop can be seen immediately. Furthermore, customers do not worry about being drowned in many shelves and avoiding multitudinous people. 3. 1. 4 Manager Training One of M strengths is its strict and excellent manager training system (Retail Technology,1999).Eve ry manager of M must be familiar with duty of every post. In fact, managers of M are arranged practice of every post. It helps them to improve both work experiences and management skills. 3. 2 Weakness 3. 2. 1 Clothing Lack Segmentation The clothing market of M has many segments. In fact, especially ladies outer wear, is outmoded design and cut. In addition, affluent younger consumers prefer purchasing brand-labels, such as Gap, Next and Top shop (Jobber, 2001: 149). 3. 2. 2 Stock Control The non-performance of the home delivery/shopping service even sometimes involves wedding lists.Customers were told that items were out of stock (Jobber, 2001). Customers complain the defect of e-shopping and delivery services. To some extent, M suffers from the unbalance between the stock and Information Technology System. 3. 2. 3 Waste Store Spaces Another problem is that M has many store spaces. In fact, it has added 75 percent of square foot age since the early Eighties, but its market share in clothing has not increased (Stewart, 2000). M needs to find some new products to stuff its extra spaces. 3. 3 Opportunities 3. 3. 1 Internet TechnologyInternet technology has developed fast, it offers an opportunity to increase the demand for the online products (Zakon, 1999). In terms of this circumstance, buying products online became a new trend. Customers are getting used to accept the model and adapt it to their daily lives, and the demand for this kind of products would be increased in the future. 3. 3. 2 Healthy Eating Healthy eating offers an opportunity that the demand of specific food will be increased (Leyshon, 2002). People pay attention to the life quality, they request companies to offer varied products to satisfy their needs.For example, in the food market, M does good segmentation in providing the vegetarian, low fat or organic food. This is the advantage that the competitors have not aware of it. 3. 3. 3 Marketing Extending The Company owned stores in the Republic of Ireland and Hong Kong and has 131 franchise stores in28 countries operating through a network of successful partnerships (Marks & Spencer, 2002d). In the future, the company will expand its business beyond the existing area. 3. 4 Threats Although M has its own strengths, opportunities and weaknesses, it still occurs some threats from itself and other competitors. . 4. 1 Strong Competitors Strong competitors are the most threat to M. For example, in the food market, there are four main supermarkets, such as Tesco, Asda, Safeway and Sainsbury (Oct, 2002). They provide not only high quality but also value-added products to build customers loyalty. In the clothing market, Gap, Next, Topshop and other fashionable brands may compete with M (M shuts, 2001). 3. 4. 2 The Change of Social Environment Except other competitors, M will be influenced by social environment.Since the social environment changes at any time, the customer tastes are also changed. For example, people move to other c ountries, and their culture will affect the local people lifestyles, such as eating, and dressing. M can adjust its products to satisfy different needs. 3. 4. 3 Chemical Pollution Environment pollution is a threat for M. An environmental systems manager of M claimed. Every one of the 30,000 product line that M sells is dependent on chemicals (Friend of the Earth,2002). Governments are taking measures to protect natural environment and reduce pollution.This potential risk will affect its development of M in the future. Invest strategy Focusing on improving its operations to save costs, expanding the options for customers to buy products – especially online – and driving its business outside of the U. K. The U. K. ‘s biggest department store operator told attendees at an investor day that was webcast on its website that it would improve its supply chain and implement new IT systems which would save it GBP250 million by 2015/2016 through capital expenditure over the same period of GBP1 billion.Some of those changes would include consolidating distribution sites which would mean further warehouse closures on top of the 21 already closed, sending products directly to the country of sale rather than routing everything through a central U. K. hub, and refreshing stock systems and data collection. The second stage of the company's strategy calls its 2020 program. It is to offer more choice of when and how to buy M products, with online sales a particularly large growth area especially as more people turn to shopping on the Internet.Store sales are expected to shrink slightly by 2020 to GBP206 billion from GBP212 billion this year, while online sales are expected to almost triple to GBP57 billion in 2020 from GBP21 billion this year according to research by Verdict, Forrester and Javelin Group provided by M at its investor day. Marks & Spencer aims to target some of its 8 million customers who shop online elsewhere but not at M. There is also an unt apped 21. 5 million M customers who don't shop online at all.The final plank in ITV's strategy is to grow its international business which currently accounts for 15% of M profits through 296 international stores and its online presence. The growth is expected to come from increasing the group's central and eastern European operations as well as building on its business in China and India. The company expects to open 50 stores in five years in India, and identify key regional growth areas in China where the company will focus on property, products and local sourcing.Marks & Spencer unveiled its new strategy program under the banner â€Å"2020 Doing The Right Thing† in May, which received a lukewarm reception from investors. At the time, the retailer outlined its targets but gave few details on how exactly it would implement the plans. A bellwether for British consumer sentiment, Marks & Spencer has been hit hard over the past 18 months by the economic downturn as shoppers eith er cut back spending on nonessential items or sought less expensive food and clothing elsewhere. As a result, the company has revamped its food offer and availability and introduced a budget range of grocery products.It has also cut capital spending, laid off 1,230 staff and closed some stores. At the start of the month, Marks & Spencer reported better-than-expected fiscal second-quarter sales, buoyed by the introduction of less expensive food and revamped clothing and house ware ranges. Still, it cautioned that business will remain difficult well into next year due to the economic downturn. Second-quarter group sales rose 2. 7%, due to a 9. 6% rise in international sales and a 30% jump in online sales. The company also raised its outlook on annual profit margin thanks to better stock control, sourcing and supply chain management.Targeting strategy Targeting approach used by Marks & Spencer (M&S) is more multi segment targeting than a concentrated targeting approach. When we look at the segmentation statistics, middle aged women are the prime revenue generator for the company but even the 80% of customers who bring the 20% of sales according to the 80/20 Pareto's rule can be developed to increase the sales. Therefore M has been more focused on targeting multi segments of people with good educational socio economic class and who some high income urban populations as well.M has been previously focusing on women gender only but now environmental variables are changing and M has entered into the men market with high quality products as well that has increased the brand image in the clothing and accessories industry. M cannot follow undifferentiated or differentiated approach as the product pricing techniques are such that it is targeted to limited segment of higher socio economic class, who have high demands and can afford luxury and pleasure easily. Positioning strategy M, as now has become an international brand, therefore the company needed to position its bran d in variable manner.The promotion in South East Asia region needed to be very different from what it was positioned in Britain. The company has focused a few important parameters that lift the brand in clothing industry. M has positioned its clothing and accessories with relaxation and high quality, moreover when it comes to international market specially in India where people are more in lower socio economic class and the consumer purchasing power is not equal to other international markets where M has been making profits, therefore in such regions the company has also focused on flexible pricing strategies in order to retain and add new customers.The competitors of M in the international market are large in numbers and in order to be differentiated from the others the positioning strategy currently adopted by M is well suited to the situation. The comfort and quality has been a prime concern for the clothing industry and positioning the product with such parameters requires M to provide constant results on long term basis so that the company is able to build the brand equity and customer loyalty.Positioning is promises that a company makes to its consumers and fulfilling this promise is not only the toughest task but it also need great sacrifices and unpopular decisions at times. However it is fact that if the positioning of the brand is well justified by the company with sincerity the increase in customer level is significant. In the world of similar products and services retaining customers is not easy and therefore M as a brand has to strive harder to get to the top clothing positioning.Financial position |   |Notes |As at |As at | | | |3 April |3 April | | | |2011 |2010 | | | |? m |? | |Assets |   | |   | |Non-current assets |   |   |   | |Investments in Group undertakings |C5 |9,179. 8 |9,168. 6 | |Total assets |   |9,179. 8 |9,168. | |Liabilities |   |   |   | |Current liabilities |   |   |   | |Amounts owed to Group und ertakings |   |2,591. 8 |2,603. 5 | |Total liabilities |   |2,591. 8 |2,603. | |Net assets |   |6,588. 0 |6,565. 1 | |Equity |   |   |   | |Ordinary share capital |   |396. 2 |395. 5 | |Share premium account |   |255. 2 |247. | |Capital redemption reserve |   |2,202. 6 |2,202. 6 | |Merger reserve |   |1,397. 3 |1,397. 3 | |Retained earnings |   |2,336. 7 |2,322. 2 | |Total equity |   |6,588. 0 |6,565. 1 |

Abortion Should Not Be Permitted

Many women in this entire world do abortion. There are many reasons why they prefer abortion such as having a fear of raising the child, rape, or not having enough money to support their life and the baby. Some important reasons of why abortion should not be permitted have to do with human morality, religious and values of conscience. First of all, why abortion should not be permitted is because of basic human morality. It is not the unborn babies fault and they have the right to live normally just like any other humans. Where is our humanitarian if we abort the unborn babies? Just because of our own mistakes and our selfishness we took away another one life that is so innocent and vulnerable. Furthermore, the baby doesn’t even know why and how he is here. You don’t need to kill one life in order to live, instead there are many solutions to resolve this problem but an abortion is not the answer. Secondly, why abort should not be permitted is based on religious values. In almost all religions, a women is not allows to do an abortion. My thoughts as a Muslim, we Muslim regard abortion as wrong and forbidden. But, abortion can only be permitted if continuing the pregnancy would put the mother’s life of real danger in Muslim law. Nevertheless, in what religion you are, women should not do an abortion as the baby have the right to live in this world. Finally, reason of why women should not do an abortion related to her conscience. When women do an abortion, she will never forget what happened and the thoughts of killing a one innocent life will always be with her. The future that could have happened with her baby which will always reminds her that she killed it. Her conscience reminds her of what she has done is terribly wrong. Conclusion is, there are many way rather that choosing an abortion. Killing an innocent unborn baby is like a woman with no heart and lack of human morality. The truth is women need to think the consequences before having a sexual relation. I feel sad for the unborn baby because they deserve to have a normal life just like other kids, to see their mum face and the opportunity to see the world. Women in this world love their baby and I know a mother who had to do an abortion is not really willingly to abort it, in fact they are sad and scared but in order to live their life without bringing the ashamed in their life, they have no choice but to abort it. Abortion Should Not Be Permitted Many women in this entire world do abortion. There are many reasons why they prefer abortion such as having a fear of raising the child, rape, or not having enough money to support their life and the baby. Some important reasons of why abortion should not be permitted have to do with human morality, religious and values of conscience. First of all, why abortion should not be permitted is because of basic human morality. It is not the unborn babies fault and they have the right to live normally just like any other humans. Where is our humanitarian if we abort the unborn babies? Just because of our own mistakes and our selfishness we took away another one life that is so innocent and vulnerable. Furthermore, the baby doesn’t even know why and how he is here. You don’t need to kill one life in order to live, instead there are many solutions to resolve this problem but an abortion is not the answer. Secondly, why abort should not be permitted is based on religious values. In almost all religions, a women is not allows to do an abortion. My thoughts as a Muslim, we Muslim regard abortion as wrong and forbidden. But, abortion can only be permitted if continuing the pregnancy would put the mother’s life of real danger in Muslim law. Nevertheless, in what religion you are, women should not do an abortion as the baby have the right to live in this world. Finally, reason of why women should not do an abortion related to her conscience. When women do an abortion, she will never forget what happened and the thoughts of killing a one innocent life will always be with her. The future that could have happened with her baby which will always reminds her that she killed it. Her conscience reminds her of what she has done is terribly wrong. Conclusion is, there are many way rather that choosing an abortion. Killing an innocent unborn baby is like a woman with no heart and lack of human morality. The truth is women need to think the consequences before having a sexual relation. I feel sad for the unborn baby because they deserve to have a normal life just like other kids, to see their mum face and the opportunity to see the world. Women in this world love their baby and I know a mother who had to do an abortion is not really willingly to abort it, in fact they are sad and scared but in order to live their life without bringing the ashamed in their life, they have no choice but to abort it.

Adult Learning and Presentation Reflection Essay

Adult Learning and Presentation Reflection - Essay Example Adults have a tendency of resisting learning when feel the trainer is imposing ideas or information on them. They have to be aware of the benefits they achieve by learning something and the cost of not learning (Cooper and McIntyre, 1996; Hinchliff, 2009). In this case, the presentation was based on the valid needs of the audience. The audience was composed of nursing students who would gain from learning about the BiPAP and Non-Invasive Ventilation. The learning activities were based around real work experiences and the lesson plan contained details of the learning objectives, content, resources, and outcomes. An adult is someone who has a self-concept of his or her own life and is responsible for making life decisions and coping with the consequences (O'neil and Marsick, 2007). Adults develop the need to be seen as being capable of taking responsibility (Rogers, 2002; Hinchcliff, 2004). The trainer should design a self-directed learning situation where the learner is in charge of most of the learning activities. The learning process should incorporate several options for learning such as reading texts and internet resources (Quinn, 2000; Quinn and Hughes, 2007). The presentation had a video that would provide more information on the ventilation mechanisms. Adult learners also apply their experience into the current learning activity.

Analytical report based on an case study about IT project management Essay

Analytical report based on an case study about IT project management - Essay Example The stadium had its international recognition and with its inauguration, it was to host five matches of Euro Championship. The stadium was surrounded by many larger sports complex and along with its own spectators. The stadium could provide gigantic clients and business to restaurants and bars. In this regard Casa XXI was contracted for catering services of restaurant, bars and of special events in the Alvalade stadium for the next fifteen years. Casa XXI was the resulting company with its three partners specifically created for Alvalade Stadium Complex. Casa XXI had immense experience of catering since decades. As per agreement Casa XXI got right to serve 9 avenues including Prestige, Corporate Club, Sports 21, Restaurant Casa XXI, Cafeteria, Cafe for employees, Lodges, Kiosks, Bars and walking sales persons. Managing and exploiting revenue from these avenues was not a piece of cake and neither Casa XXI was ready to go traditional. So, Casa XXI decided to go for a new electronic sys tem which was an important innovation. This innovative system used pre-paid cards to pay for sales. These pre-paid cards had a unique serial number which was to be identified by a scanner. The scanner could examine the card status and recharge money to the card. Interesting aspect was its expiration in which card could be used many times. The main objective of this system was to get rid of the traditional cash system which was more time consuming. The new innovative system could serve many customers in shorter time hence productivity was expected to be enhanced. The innovative system used a central database to save information of all cards and sales. In this innovative system when a consumer made a payment by the card, the scanners were to track card holder’s information and money in the card. After which sale was to take place or the money could be debited accordingly. The system was further subdivided into two units. First unit was operated by the front office responsible f or interacting clients while back office unit was specified for inventory management whereas information of both system was recorded on an external database. So, the expected target of this innovative system was to create a well-established electronic system of payment which could revolutionize the sales at Alvalade Stadium. Casa XXI massively publicized their innovative system hoping for a marvellous opening. Outsourcing is a common practice is nowadays business. Outsourcing may take place due to many factors. These factors may be business, political, technical or financial. In this case, Case XXI lacks the expertise regarding IT projects and systems. It has mainly been in food and catering business and such technical skill seems to be remote in the industry it works in, With a crucial event coming up, outsourcing the new innovative project had deem to be a good decision. Outsourcing has many advantages. Some of them include access to the required expertise easily, greater focus on core functions and risk sharing. Casa XXI have taken advantage of the mentioned advantages to great extent. It wouldn’t be easy to acquire the skill of the IT project easily and if they decided to each part of the project themselves they would no doubt have suffered in their core expertise, catering. Core failures of the system The innovative system was expected to bring stacks of productivity to Casa XXI but unfortunately the inauguration went against all anticipations and ruined

Adolescents Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Adolescents - Research Paper Example ABC model of crisis intervention is one of the patterns recommended. The overall tragedy is a two step process. Once is that of the initial phases how it shocks the parents. The second is the aftermath and how the parents react to it, and how they live with it. Handling the trauma and coping with the surrounding environments is one of the core challenges faced. Engaging oneself in healthy activities also amount to the preventive and counter measures that the parents may undertake. Kristi Kanel has discussed the ABC model of crisis intervention (Kanel, 2014, 21). This particular model allows for overcoming the challenges faced in the form of therapy processes and other counseling guides. This allows facing the challenges bravely and overcoming them through confidence. The model is time tested one and large number f psychologists recommend it for therapy function in the wake of losses suffered by

Give me 3 to 4 topics than i will choose one of them and let you Research Proposal

Give me 3 to 4 topics than i will choose one of them and let you know.topic of human resorce manangment i am doing phd so need a researcg - Research Proposal Example Managers of performance appraisal, variable pay, and merit plans stress on the fact that these programs must be in form or should be constant with organizations employee practices, strategic missions or goals, and culture whether they are doing the work as organization aims. Earlier in 1982, few federal plans like those funded under the Job Training Partnership Act, were needed to build up contracts which exercised clients results measures as well as serve incentives and authorized accordingly (Yates, 1997). The Government Performance and Results Act 1993 and also the Service Efforts and Accomplishments (SEA) reporting idea of Government Accounting Standards Board (GASB, 1994) underlined the significance of performance responsibility. In late 1994, 26 federal groups signed charitable promises to convert near about 100 service agreements to performance based contracts. By 1997, federal acquisition requirements were rewritten with specific language about the requirement for performance necessities and quality benchmarks in both agreements requirements and also quality assurance. These laws and plans discussed the significance of measuring agreement performance on delivery of already agreed services as well as the feedbacks of services on users. In this project, the quasi experimental study can be used for understanding the research problem. Likert scale can be a very useful tool for completing this project. The sample size for this project can be selected as 100 people. A questionnaire will be prepared on the given topic for collecting the response of the respondents which will be answered by respondents individually. The findings will be analysed by statistical method. After completing the questionnaire section the responses of the respondents are analysed in the findings segment. The result will provide an insight into the organizational view point regarding

The potential costs and benefits of participation in future Research Paper

The potential costs and benefits of participation in future multilateral nuclear arms - Research Paper Example Further, the continued dissemination of technical and scientific knowledge and the increasing concerns regarding the environmental effects of fossil fuels, the access to dual-purpose technologies will undoubtedly grow. From a Beijing perspective, this project will write a policy paper that outlines the potential costs and benefits of participating in future multilateral nuclear arms control negotiations involving the United States, Russia and China. China declared during the Cold War that as a nation, it would become part of a multilateral arms control regime so long as the US and Russia reduced their arsenals by half (SCRF 47). This led to the US and Russia reducing their nuclear stock piles. China went ahead and fulfilled that condition, but there are recent reports that it will keep holding back from getting into multilateral arms control with the two nations until their arsenals are more closer in size to its own (Fowler 53). Further, financial, technological and doctrinal constraints have kept China from engaging in nuclear arms control with the US and Russia. However, if China participates in the disarmament, nonproliferation and multilateral arms control, negotiations, there will be associated costs to Beijing. First, China will have to contend with the risk of being exposed to attacks by other NWS and, in particular, the US and Russia, with whom they are supposed to enter a control regime (Larson & Shevchenko 118). This is regardless of how unfounded the possibility presently seems but, given the massive population of China and the likely consequences of an attack, it is a risk that cannot be assumed. There will also be further moral and strategic costs, particularly in terms of defending key national interests and those touching on territorial integrity and national sovereignty. While officially declining to be participants of the 2003 US-proposed

How does al etihad company benefit from the employment from overseas Research Proposal

How does al etihad company benefit from the employment from overseas graduates - Research Proposal Example al., 2013). Subsequently, the proposed study will help identifying how the company will be benefitted from recruiting skilled and talented graduates of the overseas labour market. This outcome of the proposed study will be crucial in determining a better set of workforce that can contribute towards the sustainable existence of the overall business (Gold Bars Worldwide, 2013). A better understanding of the research topic can be gained from the brief analysis of secondary sources. As per Chandramohan (2008), HRM ensures proper and productive management of the resources in businesses, deemed as the most vital assets required for the sustainability of any organisation (Chandramohan, 2008). Correspondingly, Sims (2012) argued that proper HRM ultimately leads to business success since well-managed employees work efficiently and with utmost productivity towards attaining the business goals. However, prior to the application of the HRM principles, effective recruitment of productive members is important to build an effective set of workforce (Dowling & et. al., 2008). As per the report of CBI (2013), employing graduates from overseas markets not only enhances workplace diversity but also helps companies in the global markets to tackle cultural differences amid customers in an efficient manner. It is through this mechanism that by recruiting skilled and education candidates from numerous regions, companies can ensure compliance with the modern day challenges of diversity and continuous changes (CBI, 2013). As per the study of Hoo & et. al. (2009), in the presence of graduates from the overseas markets, companies are able to better exploit the potentials of the overseas markets and gain better share in the international markets (Hoo & et. al., 2009). Besides, as Al Etihad is among the fastest growing players in Gold and Silver refinery industries, the company requires highly skilled and technically sound employees, capable of dealing with such on-the-job

Americas Vision Essay Example for Free

Americas Vision Essay Fame, wealth, freedom, and success. Every person desires a life where riches, glory, or freedom surround them. Numerous people consider this dream the American dream, however, is it truly possible to achieve? Even those various immigrants who travel a great distance to come to America to live their own American dream shortly become intemperate people. The idea of the American dream is not attainable because people in general are exceedingly paradoxical and are constantly left yearning for more in a variety of ways. In the heartfelt story America and Americans, Is the American Dream Even Possible, by John Steinbeck, he wrote, One of the generalities often noted about the Americans is that we are restless, a dissatisfied, a searching people (Steinbeck 1). I feel that Steinbeck conveys a great deal of truth about Americans and how we live our lives. We all aspire to have something and once we acquire it we become discontent and strive to have more. For instance, a man works his whole life to become someone or something he truly is not and once he gets there he realizes that he wants more and longs to become more. In truth we all do what we want to and are searching for the greatest, but nothing ever seems to be good enough in our dissatisfied lives. Immigrants from all over the world arrive in America to pursue their own American dream. Whether they come for religious freedom, education, or just to obtain better lives, they quickly strive for more and more even though they have accomplished their intended goals. After residing in America for years they overlook the ways of their homeland customs and become drawn to the lives of Americans even when it is in opposition to their original traditions. In numerous ways they somewhat become brainwashed by Americans who live their lives not in reality but in idealism, and they attempt to live their life like them as well. However, once they return to their homelands after believing they have obtained their goals, they cannot figure out why their families and friends no longer wish to speak to them. They have altered and become intemperate people resembling us Americans and have brought back terrible habits and ways to their homelands that their people have despised in their customs for several years. Americans are truly paradoxical people who say one thing and do another. We  are constantly contradicting ourselves and others and cannot comprehend why we are so unhappy. We make every effort to achieve happiness but nothing ever seems to be good enough. John Steinbeck expresses that our priorities are extremely wrong in this quote, Americans are remarkably kind and hospitable and open with both guests and strangers; yet they will make a wide circle around the man dying on the pavement. Fortunes are spent getting cats out of trees and dogs out of sewer pipes; but a girl screaming for help in the street draws only slammed doors, closed widows, and silence (Steinbeck 1). Steinbeck puts across a serious point and I boldly agree that we Americans have our priorities twisted around. Ultimately, Americans have a large number of adjustments they will have to carry out before they will ever be able to achieve their American dream and be content. We are so full of dissatisfaction and failure to stick with our goals. We tread on friends and family who get in the way of our so called American dream, and after we believe we have attained it we are not sure as to why we are so miserable. If Americans can take that further step to transform, the American dream may become possible. However, until then the American dream will merely be an idea, not a possibility. Works Cited: 1. Steinbeck, John. America and Americans, Is the American dream even possible.

Data Analysis Interpretation

Data Analysis Interpretation Introduction Based on the literature review in chapter 2 and the primary and secondary data collected as outlined in chapter 3 , the researcher has detailed his analysis and his interpretation of his understanding based on in-depth and clear research keeping the aim and objective of the research in mind. This chapter emphasizes the main issues in connection with the studys aims , previously outlined . The chapter has been accordingly broken down into main sections To study the set of processes used in a world-class organization (Infosys) to effectively and efficiently manage software projects To study the involvement of senior managements and the role of managers in delivering software products To suggest possible future courses of action through which Infosys can maintain an edge over the competition Data Analysis and Interpretation Using the primary and secondary data identified in the literature research , the researcher now explains the main areas in order to answer the objectives of the study AIM : To study the set of processes used in a world-class organization to effectively and efficiently manage software projects . The literature review pointed that in terms of Infosys project management, software project work is split into two components: onsite and offshore, according to where it can be best done, at the lowest cost, and with the lowest level of acceptable risk, thereby de-coupling capability development and delivery. Infosys has established a systematic pattern of succession planning whereby board members remain in the vanguard but are underpinned by a three-tier leadership structure for high-potential managers . Infosys executes hundreds of projects each year. Full responsibility for executing a project rests with the project manager, who must make sure that the project team delivers high-quality software to the customer on time and within cost . At Infosys , in the project planning stage, as revealed by Marsh (1998 p.29) , the project manager reviews contractual commitments and creates a plan to meet them. Creating a project plan involves defining a life-cycle process to be followed, esti mating the effort and schedule, preparing a detailed schedule of tasks, and so on. It also includes planning for quality and configuration management as well as risk management. At Infosys , the second phase, as in the words of Finney ( 1999 p.43) , project execution, involves executing the project plan, tracking the status of the project, and making corrections whenever project performance strays from the path laid down in the project plan. In other words, it involves tracking and controlling the implementation of the project process. This phase is the longest in the project management process, incorporating periodic tasks such as monitoring project status and quality and taking any needed corrective steps. Objective 1 : To analyze the project management process adapted by Infosys in delivering effective software systems Infosys project manager performs startup and administrative tasks and creates the project plan and schedule. He is also responsible for defining the objectives of the project . The suitable standard process for the project execution is identified . Also the standard process to meet project requirements are tailored . Also a process for managing changes in requirements is designed . The estimation of effort involved is undertaken . Also the plan for human resources and team organization is determined . The project milestones are defined and schedules created accordingly. Also the quality of objectives and a quality plan to achieve them are determined . A defect prevention plan in designed. The risks are identified and plans are made to mitigate them. A measurement plan for the project is defined .A training plan for the project is designed . The project-tracking procedures are analyzed for effective execution . Also a review of the project plan and schedule are performed . Authorizati on from senior management is obtained . The configuration management plan and defined and reviewed . Also orientation of the project team to the project management plan is executed Once planned the project manager executes the project as per the project plan. , tracks the project status., reviews the project status with senior management. , monitor compliance with the defined project process. , analyze defects and perform defect prevention activities, monitor performance at the program level and conduct milestone reviews and replan if necessary. Other members of the team also participate in this stage. The entry criterion is that the project plan is complete and approved, and the exit criterion is that all work products delivered are accepted by the customer Post-project data analysis constitutes the main activity; metrics are analyzed, process assets (materials, such as templates and guidelines, used to aid in managing the process itself) are collected for future use, and lessons are recorded. Because learning from the project is the main goal, this is a group activity that involves the project manager, the SEPG, and other members of the team Infosys software project has two main activity dimensions: engineering and project management. Infosys engineering dimension deals with building the system and focuses on issues such as how to design, test, code, and so on. Infosys project management dimension deals with properly planning and controlling the engineering activities to meet project goals for cost, schedule, and quality. If a software project is small (say, a team of one or two working for a few weeks), it can be executed by infosys somewhat informally. The project plan may be an e-mail specifying the delivery date and perhaps a few intermediate milestones. Requirements might be communicated by infosys in a note or even verbally, and intermediate work products, such as design documents, might be scribbles on personal note pads. These informal techniques, however, do not scale up for larger projects of Infosys in which many people may work for many months—the situation for most commercial software projects. In such projects, each engineering task must be done carefully by Infosys following well-tried methodologies, and the work products are been properly documented so that others can review them. The tasks in the project are been carefully planned by infosys and allocated to project personnel and then tracked as the project executes. In other words, to successfully execute larger projects, formality and rigor along these two dimensions must increase in infosys Formality requires that well-defined processes be used for performing the various tasks so that the outcome becomes more dependent on the capability of the processes. Formality is further enhanced by quantitative approaches that are employed by infosys in the processes through the use of suitable metrics. A process by infosys for a task comprises a sequence of steps that should be followed to execute the task. For Infosys, however, the processes it recommends for use by its engineers and project managers are much more than a sequence of steps; they encapsulate what the engineers and project managers have learned about successfully executing projects. Through the processes, the benefits of experience are conferred to everyone, including newcomers in the organization. These processes help managers and engineers emulate past successes and avoid the pitfalls that lead to failures. For a project, Infosys engineering processes generally specify how to perform engineering activities such as requirement specification, design, testing, and so on. The project management processes, on the other hand, specify how to set milestones, organize personnel, manage risks, monitor progress, and so on. Project managers at Infosys actually want to use processes but only if theyre reasonable and will help the project managers execute their projects better. Project managers do, however, resent processes that seem to be unnecessarily bureaucratic and add little value to their work. The trick, then, is to have lightweight processes—those that help project managers plan and control their projects better and that give them the flexibility to handle various situations. Objective 2 : To analyze the CMM framework applied by Infosys in delivering effective software projects To consistently improve process performance on its projects, Infosys enhance the process capability frequently that the process itself must become more mature. In level 1, the initial level, Infosys executes its project in a manner that the team and project manager see its fit. At the repeatable level (level 2) infosys applies established project management practices are employ them , although organization-wide processes may not exist. At the defined level (level 3), organization-wide processes have been defined and are regularly followed by Infosys project team. At the managed level (level 4), quantitative understanding of the process capability makes it possible to quantitatively predict and control the process performance on a project by the Infosys project team. At the optimizing level (level 5), the process capability is improved in a controlled manner and the improvement is evaluated quantitatively. Each maturity level is characterized by key process areas (KPAs), which specify the areas on which the organization should focus to elevate its processes to that maturity level. For Infosys to achieve a maturity level, it must satisfy all the KPAs at that maturity level as well as the KPAs at all lower maturity levels. Maintaining processes at higher levels of maturity is a challenging task requiring commitment from infosys and its proper work culture. Objective 3 : To study the KPAs for Infosys project management performance KPAs at Level 2 : Requirement Management RM : Here the software requirements of Infosys are controlled to establish a baseline for its software engineering and management activities. Also software plans, products, and activities are kept consistent with requirements Software Project Planning SPP : Here Infosys estimation are documented for use in planning and tracking the project .Project activities and commitments are planned and documented. by Infosys .Also affected groups and individuals agree to their commitments related to the project Software Project Tracking and Oversight SPTO : Here the actual results and performances of infosys are tracked against their software plans. Corrective actions are taken by management and they manage to closure when actual results and performance deviate significantly from their software plans. Software Subcontract Management (SSM ) : Infosyss prime contractor and the subcontractor agree to their commitments. The prime contractor tracks the subcontractors actual results against its commitments. The prime contractor and the subcontractor maintain ongoing communication. Similarly the prime contractor tracks the subcontractors actual performance against its commitments Software Quality Assurance SQA : Here Infosys plans its software quality assurance activities . Also adherence of software products and activities to the applicable standards, procedures, and requirements is verified objectively. Similarly affected groups and individuals are informed of software quality assurance activities and results. Noncompliance issues that cannot be resolved within the project are addressed by senior management of Infosys Software Configuration Management SCM : Infosys plans its software configuration management activities Also selection of software work products are identified, controlled, and available. Similarly changes to identified software work products are controlled. Affected groups and individuals are informed of the status and content of software baselines KPAs at Level 3 Integrated Software Management ISM : Here Infosys projects defined software process is a tailored version of the organizations standard software process. The project is planned and managed according to the projects defined software process Intergroup Coordination IC : Infosys affected groups agree to the customers requirements. And all groups agree to the commitments between different groups.The groups identify, track, and resolve intergroup issues. Peer Reviews PR : Infosys plans its peer review activities and any defects in the software work products are identified and removed KPAs at Level 4 : Quantitative Process Management QPM : Infosys plans its quantitative process management activities and its process performance of the projects defined software process is controlled quantitatively. The process capability of Infosys standard software process is known in quantitative terms. Software Quality Management SQM : Infosys projects software quality management activities are planned. Any measurable goals for software product quality and their priorities are defined. The actual progress toward achieving the quality goals for the software products is quantified and managed Objective 4 : To analyze the SEPG support Infosys applies to its projects The quality department at Infosys contains the software engineering process group (SEPG). The SEPG is responsible for coordinating all the process activities, including process definition, process improvement, and process deployment. It also manages all information and data related to the use of processes Although the responsibility for all aspects of delivery, including quality, belongs to the project team, the SEPG facilitates the project team in following the right processes. The SEPG also forms an independent channel for monitoring and reporting to senior management on process and quality issues. Because processes wont stick by themselves,6 the SEPG helps to ensure that the defined processes are implemented and become standard practice. To this end, in addition to offering training on processes, the SEPG provides a member who is associated with a project as a software quality adviser. The quality adviser assists in defining and following processes, ensures that the processes are followed, aids in analyzing the data, and provides any needed process training. Because the adviser is well versed on processes, guidelines, and so on, the advisers main help comes during project planning. The adviser also reviews the project plan to ensure that it contains all the key elements. In addition to providing consulting and help with processes and metrics, the Infosys SEPG schedules and manages regular independent audits to ensure that the defined processes and standards are being followed. Objective 5 : To study the involvement of senior managements and the role of managers in delivering software products ( PRISM and IPM ) Infosys prides itself in providing value to its customers through delivery excellence. Everything at Infosys, including its organizational structure, is driven by the aim of serving customers efficiently and effectively and quickly tapping new business opportunities. For delivery of customer services, Infosys has many business units. Within a business unit, a team, headed by a project manager, executes a project. The project manager is responsible for all aspects of project execution, from determining the requirements to final installation of the software. The project manager reports to a business manager, who in turn generally reports to the business unit head. To handle situations that cannot be resolved by the project manager, senior management involvement in projects is essential. At Infosys, the business manager regularly interacts with the project manager and monitors the project through status reports and milestone reports . In addition to regular monitoring, the business manager also helps to resolve issues and problems that cannot be handled by the project team and are escalated to his level . The business manager also interacts with customers to ensure that they are satisfied and that any issues are promptly raised and addressed. In addition, other senior people also review projects periodically by regularly taking part in internal audits Through two systems—called PRISM (project review by senior management) and IPM (integrated project management)—milestone reports and project plans are available for senior management to review. All senior managers are expected to review some projects periodically through this system and to give feedback to the project leaders. Overall, senior management maintains involvement in the project primarily by monitoring to ensure that the project objectives are met and that the customer is fully satisfied. Because project managers have the main responsibility for satisfying the customer, they need to master not only executing the technical aspects of a project but also interacting with customers, eliciting requirements, managing the team, and so on. Clearly no one is likely to possess all the skills needed, so its crucial to train people to develop the necessary skills. Infosys has implemented a variety of programs to help people transition from being engineers to being project leaders. All fresh entrants undergo a three- to four-month induction training program. In addition to training in engineering and technology, this program contains one- or two-day programs in business etiquette, written communication, public speaking, body language, and so on. Later, when engineers are ready to become module leaders (those who manage the development of a system module, especially in larger projects) or project managers, they attend a series of technical and soft-skills training programs. Included in the former is a five-day project management course that focuses on all aspects of project management: planning, monitoring, controlling, and so on. A two-week course on requirements specification and management teaches how to elicit requirements, how to document them, how to verify them, and so on. The five-day residential soft-skills training program includes modules on appraisals and team management, customer focus and customer management, leadership, social and business etiquette for different countries, and so on. Other regularly offered programs focus on various aspects of management; project leaders take these courses when their schedules permit. Also, team-building workshops are conducted by professionals. Objective 6 : To suggest possible future courses of action through which Infosys can maintain an edge over the competition For Infosys to continue its success stories in developing world class software projects , it has to concentrate on the following issues IN DEPTH The software projects process plan focusing on customer requirements Analyze the impact of software requirement change request Extended efforts in estimates and the high-level schedule, along with a description of how they were obtained More focus on the quality plan containing quality goals and plans for achieving them, including plans for defect prevention and reviews Extended support on the risk management plan describing the major risks, their risk exposure and impact, their prioritization, and the risk mitigation plans for the high-priority risks Effective measurement and tracking plan Detailed and clear project management plan, including the team management plan and the customer communication and escalation plan The complete configuration management plan Efficient project tracking documents, including the defect log, the issues log, the status report, and the milestone report Details of defect prevention, including defect analysis results and the impact on the project of the defect prevention plan Clearly illustrated complete closure report, which includes the metrics data on quality, productivity, cost of quality, defect removal efficiency, and so on