Gourmet Foods Essay

Introduction: Gourmet bakers and sweets is the top food retail chain of Lahore. Lahore is the second largest city of Pakistan fabled for its customer aliment and amorousness for eating. Gourmet is the number one brand in the market of bakers and sweets due to its quality and valuable services. Before 1984, Mr. Nawaz Chattha was the employee of the Shezan bakers at the post of manager. While he was doing his job, he decided to start his own business separately because he was proficient dealer, a technical supporter and maintained check and balance in every branch. Mr. Nawaz Chattha started his business from one out let in Muslim Town with bakers in 1987. After seeing the profitable result he decided to introduce new product like sweets, milk, and ice-cream and gourmet cola. In continuous success of gourmet in providing quality service and products for the health and happiness of all family, Gourmet also started a family restaurant. Since the emergence of Gourmet bakers, it has shown explosive annual growth of more than 25% in its business. It has 1700 employees working in its all departments. It has around 95 branches and will enhance its coverage to One hundred branches making it The Largest Bakers and Confectionaries of the city as well as the country. Company Name- Gourmet Bakers & Sweets (PVT) limited. Gourmet is a private limited liability company and the information regarding its share is as follows: Registered office address: 9/D Faisal Town Lahore. Authorized Capital: 20,000,000. Paid up Capital: 50,000. CEO name: Ch. Muhammad Nawaz Chattha. CEO Address: 9/D Faisal Town Lahore. Incorporation Date: January 9, 1996. Authorized Capital Share: 200,000. Paid up Share Capital: 500 Authorized PER Value: 100 Paid up PER Value: 100 Vision: â€Å"We are a bakery company with one goal in mind to meet the needs of our customers we focus on our customers as our clients.† Mission Statement: â€Å"To provide delicious, wholesome baked foods without sacrificing health and well-being.† Company Objectives: Objectives are the guidelines which direct toward the chosen destiny. The objectives of the Gourmet are marketing objectives which are as under: 1. To build profitable customer relationship by delivering superior value. 2. To provide such products those can increase targeted markets. 3. To become a leader in the bakery and confectionary industry. 4. To provide the quality products to the target market. GOURMET Logo: Organization Structure of Gourmet: Business Portfolio of Gourmet: Portfolio Analysis (B.C.G. Matrix): Star: Gourmet bread and other bakery Pro ducts come under star as they have a high relative market share and high growth rate. They are in maturity stage of its product life cycle. Cash Cow: Gourmet Cola, Gourmet Water and Dairy Products are Cash cow products for Gourmet as they have a low market Growth rate and a high relative market share. Question Mark: Gourmet new products like Dry Milk and the same for Tea as well come under Question mark. Or any other new product that Gourmet offers or is planning to offer will come in question mark category. Dogs: Gourmet Roll and Samosa Patti have a low market Growth rate and a low relative market share therefore, these products come under Dogs and therefore Gourmet has discontinued the production of these products. Marketing Planning: Gourmet follows the company strategies which are inline with the company’s goals and recommendations. It position it self as a leader in bakery products in Lahore. Before making any plan it considers its impact on its current customers, environment and competitors’ response. It also considers current threats with in the market like loosing market sale, brand image etc before making any plans. Gourmet focuses on all the available opportunities in market related to its business like launch on gourmet cola, milk ice-cream. Once it decides its main objectives and issues then it steps forwards to the action plan which consists of detailed schedule of the entire task and their budgets. Once Gourmet finalizes its plan it implements its plan and keeps on checking its performance to control its out come. Marketing implementation: After having a detailed discussion and planning gourmet comes towards the implementation phase of their marketing strategies. In implementation the company’s formal organizational structure plays and important role. Managers not only focus on short term profits but they also consider long run market building objectives. On the other hand company also considers its culture in implementing a plan. Marketing Control: Gourmet focuses on two types of marketing controls operational and Strategic. In operational controls it checks that all the operations are in line with the current marketing strategies. Where as strategic controls focuses on long run and check the long run performance of the company. It also have an internal audit department which keeps a strict checks not only on its financial performance but also on its procedures and controls which effect in every day performance. The Marketing Environment: The Company’s Macro Environment: P.E.S.T. Analysis Political – meeting all the policies and working under the political stabilities Economical – focusing the income levels of targeted customers Social – the social class we have targeted are: Technological– accepting and using the innovations in technology for production Demography – gourmet deals with a variety of demography. It caters all kind of age groups starting from children to adults. Culture – Gourmet keeps it self in line with the local culture of Lahore. It provides different products according to local festivals events and Religious days. Lower medium Middle medium Upper medium Lower upper Upper upper The Company’s Micro Environment: Market Intermediaries Gourmet does not have any major market intermediaries as it produces and sale it products it self. It does contact market intermediaries for supply of raw materials, and products like Coca cola, Jams, Ketchup, and Juices etc. Competitors If you look at Gourmet Foods, it is a clear market leader but still Gourmet has competitors. Nirala and Shezan bakers are the competitors of Gourmet as these are the only few stores who are catering the same market as gourmet is going. They also have well established brand name and image. They are fully equipped with latest technology and manufacturing plants, but these competitors are only targeting small segments of the market. They are not upgrading themselves that is why in the race of capturing market they are staying behind the market leader â€Å"Gourmet†. Suppliers Local dairy Farms. Whole sellers. Market intermediaries. Customers Customers of Gourmet are End user of the product mostly. They buy to consume the final products and services. Customer Relationship Management The Product/Market Expansion Grid: Marketing Objectives: Goals and targets have to be monitored and met, competitor strategies analyzed, anticipated and exceeded. Through effective use of market and marketing research an organization should be able to identify the needs and wants of the customer and try to delivers benefits that will enhance or add to the customers’ lifestyle. Marketing Strategies: Gourmet bakers adopted customer’s oriented marketing strategies to attract customers as much as it can. Gourmet bakers follow differentiation strategy such as strategy emphasizes the product that is unique in the industry provides distinct advantages to the bakers. One of the prominent marketing strategy of gourmet bakers is focusing on special classes of customers like gourmet bakers is focusing on upper class, middle class as well as the lower class. Marketing Channels and Supply Chain Management: The gourmet sell there goods directly to the final user. Gourmet channel decisions directly effect other marketing decisions. Due to using on marketing channels it reduces the cost. Gourmet sales force and communication decisions depend upon how much persuasion, training, motivation and support its channel partner needs. Monopolistic Competition: Gourmet faces Monopolistic Competition in the market. There are many buyers and sellers who trade over a range of prices rather than single market price. Every Seller tries to differentiate its product to gain competitive advantage and to justify its price difference. Budgeting: Budgeting plays an important role in any plan. If a plan is not financially feasible there is no benefit to be gained from all other procedures. In Budgeting process Gourmet spends 40% of its target budget on the refurbishing of the bakery. 55% of the budget is allocated in the manufacturing of its products. 5 % of the budget is allocated to promotional activities. Gourmet focuses on an affordable budgeting method. Control: Controls are very crucial for the success of any project. Gourmet implements high quality controls through its total quality management department. Gourmet uses team based approach for new projects by using these approach tighter controls will be implemented and performance can be monitored on every step. Critical Issues: Political instability and economic conditions of the country are immensely affecting the business sector in the country. Threat of Bomb attacks in any crowded place due to Terrorism also imposes an effect which leads to decreasing sales of the business as people now think before coming out of their homes. Furthermore, terrorist activities are weakening the Pakistan economy day by day. Such kind of issues may impose a bad effect on the Gourmet business in the future Recommendations: Gourmet must use new technology like Information system to centralize its Database as its service and data requirement will greatly enhance it will need processes like Data ware housing and data mining. It can also improve its security measures by implementing security cameras Up to date scanners radio frequency bar code readers (RFID’s) will improve its departmental services efficiently and effectively. Gourmet should also work for enhancing the parking area. Gourmet should also do work for innovation in products and for the atmosphere of its stores. Gourmet Bakers have their branches only in Lahore which is the drawback of their marketing strategies. The company should also open its outlets in other major cities and spend capital on advertising the company in those cities. The company is not planning for the loyalty of its customers. They should give discounts to its regular customers in this way the customer sincerity with the company will grow. Gourmet has not advertised themselves through media; they should have adopted some other sources of advertisement such as banners, newspapers, TV channels to cater the market. Recently it has started its promotion on â€Å"City 42†.

Akron’s children Hospital (Case Study)

Akron Children’s Hospital started as a day care nursery provider in 1890 and became one of the largest pediatric healthcare system in the united state. Akron Children’s Hospital is located in a friendly community of Akron, Ohio. With more than 3000 pediatric specialists Akron Children’s Hospital offers over 30 practice areas of medicine and surgery specialized for children which help the hospital draw over half a million patients a year not only from the United states, but also from all over the world(akronchildrens. org). Akron Children’s Hospital mission is to provide medical treatments to infants, children, adolescents, as well as burn victims of all ages. The hospital also provide basic and clinical research and provide multi-level professional education students of medicine, nursing, as well as Akron residents and various allied health professions. Moreover, the hospital is continuing to provide education to encourage and to make it easy on the process of lifelong learning for physicians and other children’s care providers in the health care industry. Akron Children’s Hospital commitment is to maintain the maximum quality of care for children by using the latest modern technology and equipment available. Akron is committed to promote integrity, emphasize the dignity, family member and fellow employee to follow the topmost standards of ethical conduct. The hospital is committed to maintain and press forward the hospital’s leadership role to successfully work pleasantly with other health care networks providers, community organizations, businesses as well as government to maintain a proficient professional allied and lastly operation. According to Cooper & Schindler† the basic dilemma and starting trying to develop other question by breaking down the original question is the right way to approach the research process†( Cooper & Schindler,2008). The management-research question hierarchy for Akron Children’s Hospital is that the hospital faces is how to raise the bed-occupancy rate and what can the hospital do to gain more business than its competitors. Another dilemma in Akron’s case the management is that Akron Children’s hospital distinguishing itself from many of their competitors. The research question for Akron Children’s hospital was about expending their service beyond Summit County to other different counties such as Cuyahoga County, Portage County, Mahoning County, and Medina County, which will increase the number of the patient and bring more profit. Some of the investigative questions for Akron Children’s hospital were as follow: How do children’s parent decides which hospital to take their children to, when their children need acute care? Is their decision driven simply by emotion? Is the financing a determine factor? Is the quality of service a factor on their decision? (Cooper & Schindler, 2008). During the research process Marcus Tomas LLC team had to observed physicians, parents, and child patients during testing, diagnosis, and treatment phases, they were also observing while kids were during checkups, admitted to the ER, undergoing surgery as well as prepping for surgery. They pay great detail to the interactions of patients and physicians, nurses and other staff members; they pay attention, physical and emotional reactions and heart-wrenching conversations (Copper, Schindler, 2008, cases, p. 2). The Advantages of it all is that researcher s can see a step- by-step first-hand the experiences between parents, children and hospital staff in the hospital. Furthermore, Researchers can immediately record their observances and findings. The recordings of audio or video were very good solid evidence therefore there weren’t not a lot of room for error in this method. Researchers made sure that all staff of the hospital was fully invested into the well-being of their child patients. The researchers were able to see how technology, highly energetic staff, highly knowledgeable staff and full compassion for the children work in collaboration. They saw a very strong desire by the entire hospital for the children recover and be the best they can possibly be once leaving the hospital. Some of the disadvantages are that researchers did not gain any knowledge of past experiences if all they do is watching the present. Researchers cannot really gain opinions by this method. Equipment and staffing can be extremely expensive. Some test subjects may act different or be more anxious if they know someone is watching and/or recording interactions. Conclusively Akron Children’s Hospital management and executives have come to conclusion and realized that the process of overcome the competitors surfing above competitor’s shadow, also generating an effective marketing plan will require an extensive qualitative research. They made a decision of hiring Marcus Thomas LLC. Overall the research was well executed because in the long run Akron Children’s Hospital was able to gain an increase on the number of patients admitted to the hospital, as the result of a better comprehension based on the patients’ parent point of view about their needs and their perspectives. References Cooper, R. D., & Schindler, S. P. (2008). Business Research Methods. (10th Edition) New York: McGray-Hill/Irwin. Cooper, R. D., & Schindler, S. P. (2008). Business Research Methods – Cases. (10th Edition) New York: McGray-Hill/Irwin. (N. D). (2010). Corporate info. Akronchildrens.org. Retrieved May 23, 2013 from: https://www.akronchildrens.org/cms/site/14908a4d74b348d5/index.html (N.D). (2010). Akron Children's Hospital, Ohio /overview. U.S.News & World. Retrieved May 23, 2013 from:http://health.usnews.com/best-hospitals/akron-children's-

Teen Mom and Effects on American Culture

American teenagers take a lot of things for granted, but what we don’t take into consideration is what would happen if these things suddenly disappeared. Teenage life consists of school, jobs, driving, friends, sports, and going out with friends. We never consider others’ way of life. In some cultures, they are just fighting to stay alive, while others don’t have the freedom to go out with friends, or play a certain sport. They are so consumed in family life or their future jobs that they have no social life. No one ever thinks what would happen if their way of life was completely turned around.This concept is shown on a reality television show called 16 and Pregnant. It follows a group of teenage girls throughout their pregnancy and a few weeks after. It shows the trials, worries, and changes in these girls’ lives. There is also a follow up show called Teen Mom that follows 4 girls from the first season of the show. I will be expanding on these girls†™ lives from the beginning of their pregnancy to their lives now. Maci Bookout was just your ordinary teenage girl. She was an excellent student, played softball, and was very popular. She had big plans to go away for college and be a typical college student.This is the way the typical American is viewed. But things suddenly changed for Maci when she discovered she was pregnant. All her dreams and aspirations soon faded away and she had to consider her life with a baby. Maci comes from a middle upper class family, so concerns for money were minimal, and she didn’t have much of a struggle, other than with her baby’s dad, Ryan. But she couldn’t go away to college; she was just worried about graduating high school. She had to quit softball, and her friends soon turned on her. Her life was completely changed with just one decision.She took her teenage years for granted, but once she became a teen mom, that was all she wanted back. Amber Portwood was a big party gi rl, who didn’t care what others thought of her. She would party instead of doing homework, and didn’t have many friends that truly cared about her. She viewed life as a big party, and didn’t take it seriously, until she had to. She became pregnant at 16 and her whole life was changed. She dropped out of high school, and moved in with her boyfriend, Gary. They were from a lower class family, so they struggled with money. Gary and Amber soon both were working, and had to leave their aughter with Gary’s mother. It was obvious from the start that Amber and Gary were not meant for each other, because they would often get into fights. Fights started to get physical and Amber soon saw herself sitting home alone while Gary took their daughter and left, after many months of physical abuse. Amber knew she had a problem, and needed help, but she realized it too late. Gary broke up with her and she was alone, and without her daughter. She took her teen years for gran ted, and instead of living life to the best of her ability, she tried to grow up too fast, and got what she wanted.Farrah Abrams was the popular cheerleader in high school. She had great friends and an amazing boyfriend. She had big dreams of going to culinary school, becoming a chef, and opening her own restaurant. All those dreams were put on hold when she discovered she was pregnant. Things became even worse when the father of her baby, and boyfriend of 1 year, was killed in a car accident. 2 months later, her daughter, Sophia, was born. She had to go through the loss of her boyfriend, and the birth of her daughter. Soon after Sophia’s birth, Farrah began to miss her boyfriend and saw herself going out more, and leaving her baby with her mother.Farrah’s mom constantly had to remind her daughter that she was now a mother and couldn’t just go out with friends anymore. She was from a very wealthy family and had no problems with money, but all her other problems took the place of money problems. Farrah and her mother did not get along very well at all. She was constantly disrespecting her mom, and her mom was constantly nagging her about everything. When Sophia was almost 1 year old, Farrah’s mother punched Farrah. Cops came to the house and arrested her mother, and Farrah didn’t see or speak to her mom for months.Farrah had a successful life planned out for herself, but now she’s unsure of whether or not she’ll ever reach her goals. Catelynn Lowell is an ordinary girl. She doesn’t have any special gifts or talents, she’s just a teenager. She and her boyfriend, Tyler, were dating 3 years when she discovered she was pregnant. Ironically this was a good thing for her. She had no plans or goals for her life, because her mother and step-father (which is Tyler’s real dad) are both drug addicts and have never been strict on Catelynn about anything. Being pregnant made Catelynn realize she needed to do something with her life and not turn into her mother.She and Tyler talked for months, and both decided that they needed to give their daughter, Carly, up for adoption, because there was no way they could raise their daughter in the living situation they were in. Catelynn and Tyler are both from very low class families, and could barely provide for themselves, so they knew their daughter would be very unhappy. While it was a difficult decision, they also knew it was the best one. Catelynn and Tyler will be graduating from high school this year, and have many goals they’re eager to achieve. The similarities and differences between these girls are many.Amber dropped out of high school, and missed out on graduating. Will she ever get her GED? Farrah is the only one who does not have a father in her baby’s life; will her baby ever have a father figure? Maci seems to have it all together, but does is she really happy not being with her first love? Catelynn and Tyler gave their daughter up for adoption, and while it was a smart decision, will they later regret it? All these girls’ lives will be affected forever because of the decisions they’ve made. I believe this show takes the concept of the average American teenager, and adds some reality into it.While not all teen girls become pregnant, it’s amazing to see that this is what it take to make some teens grow up. Other cultures would think that this is just crazy because these girls took for granted the fact that they had people who loved them, a house to live in, and a chance for education. American culture is very different from other cultures, just in the fact that we don’t value things that should be valued, such as family, morals, and God. If we viewed life a little more seriously, and not as a game, then we may be a much stronger, happier nation.

Journal Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 36

Journal - Essay Example It is for this reason that the international community bypassed the government and channeled their aid funds through nongovernmental organizations (NGOs). From the time Haiti got independence, it has failed to construct proper buildings and have efficient infrastructure and public service in place. Decade after decade, the authorities in Haiti do not have much to show in terms of developmental goals achieved, despite receiving aid from several donors as well as grants (Brooks 1). From this, I believe the government might have no development plan in the first place or, its excessively corrupt officials are drowning any national, people-oriented agendas. It follows that a government that has no development plan or is full of corrupt officials cannot have a practical means of using aid to bring down poverty. It is argued that the aid received is not sufficient. However, that hardly seems the truth, because the highest number of NGOs per capita in the world is found in Haiti. I think Hai ti needs to do away with its anti-developmental cultural influences because, like Barbados, the both come from oppressive histories of slavery, but Barbados is not facing poverty problems to the extent witnessed in Haiti. Haiti is languishing in abject poverty because of the lack of a growth policy. It is true that much of the pledged money in terms of aid after the 2010 earthquake was not received, but the government did not portray the image and capabilities of an able custodian of the people’s aid. It is true that the government is by all means accountable to its people, albeit through democratically elected representatives, but NGOs are not. Yet, aid was channeled through the NGOs. In this sense, the government is doing itself more harm by allowing the international community to belittle it in full awareness of its subjects (Brooks 1). This all goes back to lack

Discovery, Appearance and Meaning of Cave paintings in France and Essay

Discovery, Appearance and Meaning of Cave paintings in France and Spain - Essay Example The essay "Discovery, Appearance and Meaning of Cave paintings in France and Spain" explores Cave paintings in France and Spain. Nearly two hundred cave paintings have been discovered so far in France and Spain, and they still continue, as the recent discovery of cave paintings in the Vilhonneur forests, in the Charente region of western France suggest. However, the cave paintings in the Lascaux Cave of Montignac, in the Dordogne region of southwest France, and Altamira, in northwest Spain, still remain the more significant examples of pre-historic cave paintings. The initial discovery of the caves, and the paintings at Altamira were made in the later half of the nineteenth century by accident. In 1868 a hunter’s dog chasing a fox fell among some boulders, and the hunter, in attempting to rescue the dog discovered the entrance to the famous cave. The cave paintings took more than a decade later to be discovered, again by accident. The owner of the estate in which the cave was located was an amateur archeologist. His young daughter accompanied him on one of his trips into the cave, to look for tools, in 1879. She looked up at the ceiling, and became the first person in modern times to espy the herd of red animals painted across the ceiling. Initially these paintings were not accepted as pre-historic paintings, and believed to be forgeries a mere twenty years old. In the beginning of the twentieth century efforts of the French priest Henri Breuil made the world aware of this finest example.

Starbucks' Mission (vision, goals, objectives) aligned with its Essay

Starbucks' Mission (vision, goals, objectives) aligned with its strategies - Essay Example Manifestation of Starbucks’ mission is through its six (6) major principles. According to the Starbucks Coffee Official Website, these principles are the: equality of work environment, business diversity, application of high-standard excellence, focus on consumers’ satisfaction, environmental and communal contributions, and profitability recognition. In addition, through these ways of measuring appropriateness of decisions, Starbucks envisions itself as the â€Å"most recognized and respected brand in the world,† (Starbucks Coffee Website). As in every corporation, especially those who are present globally like Starbucks Coffee, marketing strategies are developed and implemented. Specifically, it developed marketing opportunities and applied efficient marketing strategies to gain profit and be recognized. All marketing strategies should be related to the company’s mission and vision; and this study aims to analyze whether Starbucks strategies are aligned with its goals. First manifestation of Starbucks’ mission is its equality of work environment (Starbucks Coffee Website). That means that every human resource should be treated with respect and dignity. Indeed, human resources, especially in a coffee corporation like Starbucks are very important. Starbucks, having recognized this and embraced it into their mission, highly prioritizes their people, their baristas. They value their employees because they know that they contribute and play a major role in company growth. The employees are the ones who serve the customers (Catching the Starbucks†¦, 2002). It is the employees who the customers see, not the CEO or president of the company. In relation to this, Starbucks train their employees both in product expertise and customer service. And thus, more competent hired employees are more knowledgeable of the product, and they can serve customers well for the success of the company.

Weighing the Value, Benefits & True Cost of Outsourcing Information Research Paper

Weighing the Value, Benefits & True Cost of Outsourcing Information Technology - Research Paper Example Information Technology outsourcing is a great way to achieve the organizational objectives in an efficient and cost effective manner. However if practiced properly the benefits of IT outsourcing goes beyond than just mere outsourcing. Outsourcing offer significant business impact that leads to a stable, secure and most importantly a robust business unit that operates like a well oiled machine. The main fundamental of business process outsourcing is to outsource the mundane task to the specialists so that the organization can focus upon the core activities. As a matter of fact that is the very basic root cause of any form of IT outsourcing. However it must also be mentioned that there is another angle to the whole outsourcing saga. As the business landscape gets more and more competitive and the global economy gets unpredictable, a significant effort can be seen on the part of the companies to reduce size of the business units and budgets. Now getting into the shoes of an entrepreneur it is pretty safe to say that it is more likely that the entrepreneur would look to reduce the size of a business department that doesn’t include in the checklist of the core business activities. Such factors are the catalysts behind the rise of outsourcing business. The study has been conducted in lieu of determining the productivity benefits of IT outsourcing and to go beyond the cost effectiveness aspect of IT outsourcing (Delen, 2009. p. 25). A business of any organization irrespective of the size is quite likely to be familiar with recurrent challenges. The chances get even higher in the modern volatile economy. Some of the most familiar challenges include limited budget, shortage of quality manpower, assigning manpower keeping their core competency in mind. To make things harder there is constant need of technology enablement in almost every business department. Whatever be the situation it is pretty needless to say

Information policy Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Information policy - Essay Example â€Å"Children today are ‘digital natives’. They have grown up with computers and the internet and they spend a good deal of time online while at school and at home† (Conroy, p.1) Children are mostly vulnerable especially at their adolescent period. They were not much enough to separate between the good and evils during this period. The thirst for new knowledge will encourage them to experiment things which may potentially harmful to the society. Internet is an ocean of knowledge from where the children may get the wanted and unwanted information. It is difficult to control the internet activities fully because of its usefulness in the modern learning processes. The growth of incidents like online identity theft; cyber-bullying; abuse of child avatars in virtual worlds; computer addiction; an increase in the number of registered profiles of sex offenders on MySpace; and online breaches of privacy such as the posting of sexual photos and sex videos by students are some of the criminal activities associated with internet. (Conroy, p.1)The Australian government has recently suggested a policy of controlling the internet activities or internet filtering which has raised a hot debate among the Australian public. The Australian government has recently suggested a policy of controlling the internet activities or internet filtering which has raised a hot debate among the Australian public. (Maurushat & Watt) Supporter of internet filtering argues that such a move is necessary protect the country’s political, social and cultural interests while the opponents reject such an argument saying that the government’s move may limit the freedom of expression by the public. (Maurushat & Watt) â€Å"Labor considers that, just as we teach Australian children about the risks of drunk driving, we must also teach them how to be responsible cyber-citizens and about the importance of cyber-safety.† (Conroy, p.1) It is

How Efficient Are The Oral Anticoagulants Over Warfarin Assignment

How Efficient Are The Oral Anticoagulants Over Warfarin - Assignment Example On the other hand, the action new oral anticoagulants in the body; dabigatran, in this case, can be reversed using hemodialysis. This method works to remove dabigatran from the body in 3 hours hence it can be used to treat dabigatran toxicity. Dabigatran, rivaroxaban, and apixaban are eliminated from the body through the renal system. Before their administration, clinicians are advised to diagnose and ascertain the patient's creatinine clearance using the Cockcroft-Gault formula. This will help in determining the dosage requirement for various patients. In warfarin administration, there is no agreed mechanism of administering the dosages to patients. The drug has been in use for 60 years yet clinicians do not have a clear basis for determining the right amount of the drug to be administered to patients. Various factors that inhibit the function of warfarin have been identified and they vary from patient to patient. This makes it difficult for clinicians to ascertain the correct dosag e for various patients. This is one of the reasons that make warfarin less effective and more dangerous compared to the new oral anticoagulants. All the above arguments present evidence against the use of warfarin. It limitations has made it ineffective for clinical use but despite this, it is still used by clinicians all over the world since there is no established cure for the conditions it treats. New oral anticoagulants, on the other hand, have been found to have lesser flaws and are more effective in treating patients with nonvalvular AF.

Strategic Planning Today for the Delivery of Quality Health Care Research Paper

Strategic Planning Today for the Delivery of Quality Health Care - Research Paper Example As the paper declares in the case of the service industry, it is hard for customers to know the quality of service they will get, and, therefore, depend on history of a business before choosing it as a source of service. Consequently, it is crucial for an institution to have a history of offering outstanding services to increase its customer base. In addition, in the health services industry, quality goes together with safety and customers seek services from highly acclaimed institutions, especially those with high recovery rates and low mortality rates. An institution must create a culture of quality service by one of the two main approaches, quality assurance, and quality control; the former is more suitable since it signifies a commitment to improvement and not just adherence to laid-down standards. If the health care system is not visionary enough to anticipate later changes and modify their approach on patient care, then technological advancement will result in use of equipment that increases productivity without having improvements in the quality and safety of service. In this research paper, strategic planning will be linked to improvements in service delivery. The paper will achieve this by reviewing the literature on research done to improve service delivery, and the consequences of doing so. Finally, the report will summarize the strategy, and make recommendations for improvement if available. Research Sources There have been many research attempts; all aimed at identifying reasons, consequences, factors, and methodologies of implementing research findings to improve the quality of medical care to patients. The findings of these studies, if implemented, stand a high chance of improving the quality of healthcare. However, this implementation depends on various factors incl uding the

The Crux of the 1939 German Invasion of Poland Essay

The Crux of the 1939 German Invasion of Poland - Essay Example This essay explores that on the 31st of March, France and Britain promised support for Germany. In the meantime the German propaganda instrument had been working solidly to sway public opinion against Poland for false and suspected acts of violence against Germans, and the National Socialists in Danzig, on orders from Berchtesgaden and Berlin, were working on methodically breaking the foundations of the Free City and terrorizing and harassing its Polish occupants. Danzig was already a strong German military base, occupied by Army members and the Party’s military units amounting to a sum of almost 15,000. Poland’s customs inspectorate—retained there within the provisions of the Free City’s agreement-- was one of the primary targets of the wrath of the Danzig National Socialists. A number of occurrences had taken place where in these officials were stopped from accomplishing their tasks, and they had on several instances endured atrocities with casualties. T he Polish government, on the 31st of July, declared that because of the situation they would consider different Danzig institutions as those situated outside of the import-export tax structure of Poland and would place their exports to Poland under the established import taxes. According to Henderson, as a counter-step, the Danzig National Socialists carried on to notify several Polish custom officers that they would not be permitted to continue their jobs anymore. The Polish government, on the 4th of August, taking action under the consent of the British Ambassador at Warsaw, dispatched a solicitous note to the Danzig Senate. It proposed to pull out its tariff policy if the Senate would consent to end its intrusion with the inspectorate’s job, but included an admonition of the grave outcomes which would ensue if the Senate kept on capriciously intruding on Polish civil liberties (Fraser 1945). The Senate gave its approval and awhile it appeared as if the conflict were dying down. But meanwhile, Forster—the Gauleiter of Danzig—had went to Berchtesgaden to consult the state of affairs with Adolph Hitler (Fraser 1945). According to Glen (1941), Hitler made a decision to revive this tension, which had by now been resolved between the Polish government and the Senate; and the strategy he picked was to have a critical letter dispatched from Berlin to Warsaw reprimanding the Polish government for their appeasing letter. The Polish government retorted by showing that it had took action fully within its liberties and in the defense of its legal welfare, and warning that it would consider any intrusion with such interests from foreign entities as an aggressive act. The reply of Hitler was to send huge numbers of forces to Poland’s border (Fraser 1945). On the 22nd of August the British Prime Minister addressed a private note to Hitler ordering him

American Civic Values Essay Example for Free

American Civic Values Essay In America our society has always been a morals run country, from our domestic everyday lives. Our society, groups with different civic values with who have a lot of power on our lives that we live everyday which includes schools and religious groups. There are some individuals who hold our civic values to a higher standard than those who have no regard for other members in their community. When it comes to undermining American civic values our media has a lot to be blame for as they promote and glamorize violence and illegal activities and does not show how communities can help each other adhere to civic policies. It is important for large groups to have set behaviors to adhere to, and civic values are important in keeping America a peaceful place that is safe for us as well as children. America has become a haven for special interest groups. If people don’t like something you say or do, plan on your freedom turning inwards and being used against you. Our society is no longer based off a country and its people as a whole, but by individual groups. The American civic values have dropped as special interest groups are in favor of political ground. There are several penalties that fail to adhere to the civic value such as â€Å"blue laws† these laws regulate behavior and restrict activities or the sale of goods on a Sunday to accommodate religious means. For an example in parts of one county here in North-East Florida we are not allowed to purchase alcohol on Sunday this day is constituted for religious matters. Another example of a blue law is the law in Pennsylvania where hunting is prohibited on Sunday’s as this day is recognized for a day of rest according to the religious groups.

Financial Motivation And Non Financial Motivation Business Essay

Financial Motivation And Non Financial Motivation Business Essay It is commonly believed that the majority of people aim to earn money to meet their satisfaction. In point of the view, it exactly meets Taylors theory which approach to a fair days pay for fair days work advocates utilizing financial motivation to inspire employees passion (Tutor2U, n d). According to Hall et al (2008), financial motivation can be defined as the way of using money chiefly to encourage employees. Nevertheless, half factor that motivate employees be willing to work with passion have been mentioned in Maslow hierarchy theory are nonfinancial motivational methods. However, after taking financial and non-financial methods of motivation into account in the work place, it is judged that non-financial motivation is the most valuable for companies to encourage their employees. Although it is stated that financial motivation methods have benefits to both supervisors and employees, the negative impacts of that are caused simultaneously. According to Hall et al (2008), the core of Taylor theory is money, which is relevant to the financial methods of motivation, including fringe benefits (benefits which received above wages and salary) and piece rates (employees are paid by how many items they produce in a period of time). An agricultural employee management consultant, Gregory Billikopf, examined thoroughly the productivity of two groups of farm employees, one group was paid hourly, and the other one is paid by piece rate. The result of the research is that the efficiency of the latter group was four to eight times higher than the former one (Ucanr, 2009). It is obviously proved that piece rate not only enhances to the employees passion on work, but also enhances the productivity of the company. However, piece rate as one of the financial motivation methods h as caused some disadvantages. The more products employees produce, the more money they can earn. Therefore, they probably will not focus on the quality, but on quantity (Tutor2U, n d). In this circumstance, the company is plunged into scrapes in which supervisors not only pays the employees, but also produces inferior goods. Additionally, once a company uses fringe benefits to encourage employees to reach higher targets, the cost of the company will increase dramatically by extensively offering the extra benefits to employees (Tutor2U, n d.). In brief, because money is the solely essence of financial motivation, employees probably will not take appropriate responsibility to the company. After the above analysis of the benefits and risks of financial motivational methods, it is worth exploring non-financial motivational methods from two aspects; namely, esteem needs and safety needs which had been advanced in Maslows hierarchy theory (Tutor2U, n d). To begin with, esteem needs are essential to motivate employees when they achieve objectives in their duty. Employees will receive respect from their colleagues and superiors. In 2001, a Gallup poll indicated that almost nineteen percent of employees were dissatisfied with their jobs, since they were seldom respected or recognized by their supervisors when working (Swlearning, 2003). Obviously, the more recognition employees receive, the stronger sense of confidence the employees will have. Once their confidence is enhanced appropriately, it will probably bring unique enjoyment which money cannot balance. Most importantly, this sense of confidence contributes making them to feel their talents are recognized and trusted. Therefore, the more passion will be involved by the employees into work (Hall, 2008). Hence, esteem needs play a key role in motivating employees to achieve higher targets. Safety needs which have been mentioned in Maslows hierarchy of needs (Hall et al, 2008), including job safety, are one of the most widely recognized non-financial motivational methods. An attractive working place should be well quipped with fire alarms, smoke sensors, safety doors and extinguisher. Job safety is regarded as a factor of whether the staff will continue working there. It can prevent workers from confronting dangerous situations. In 2010, one of the worlds largest pharmaceutical firms employed a gas analyzer to test the air quality after the employees complained that there was a serious odour in the office. The result of the test was that there were nearly 25 compounds in the air (Envirotech, 2010). In this instance, employees are more willing to work if there is a healthy environment in which employees can avoid being injured. Employees can work more efficiently if they are equipped with safety measures. In a broad sense, job security should also include safety insuranc e for workers. With safety insurance, workers can minimize potential loss once the disaster occurs. All in all, an attractive working place should be acknowledged to be safe which employees will have a sense of safety. In summary, financial motivation (fringe benefits and piece rates) advantages of both employees and companies in some aspects; however, the drawbacks of financial motivation far outweigh its benefits. For instance, albeit employees can benefit from piece rate, otherwise, the low quality product will probably plunge the company into scrapes. In this point of view, non-financial motivation methods which were advanced in Maslows hierarchy theory are more efficient and have played a significant role in encouraging employees to work with enormous passion, for example, esteem needs (respect and reorganization), and safety needs (job security). These non-financial motivations provide a significant environment for employee to work with passion and willing to take responsibility in to the work. It is suggested that non-financial motivational methods will probably be a leading factor for employees to work with passion. Reference: Envirotech(2010) Portable FTIR Verifies Safe Working Environment Available at: http://www.envirotech-online.com/news/air-monitoring/6/quantitech/portable_ftir_verifies_safe_working_environment/8577/ [Accessed 13-3-2010] Hall. D, R Jones, C. Raffo, A. Anderson. (2008) Business Studies, 4th edition. Haddington [Accessed 13-3-2010] Swlearning(2003) Management, Fighting the System Available at ¼Ã… ¡ http://www.swlearning.com/management/management_news/motivation_0902_001.html [Accessed 13-3-2010] Tutor2u Subject: People, Topic: Motivating employee-financial rewards Available at ¼Ã… ¡ http://tutor2u.net/business/gcse/people_motivation_financial_rewards.htm [Accessed 13-3-2010] Tutor2u (n d) Motivation in Theory- Maslows Hierarchy of Needs Available at: http://tutor2u.net/business/people/motivation_theory_maslow.asp [Accessed 13-3-2010] Tutor2U (n d) Subject: People-motivation theory Available at: http://tutor2u.net/business/gcse/people_motivation_theories.htm [Accessed 13-3-2010] Ucanr(2009) Agricultural Labor Management Effective Piece-Rate Pay Management Available at ¼Ã… ¡ http://ucanr.org/delivers/impactview.cfm?impactnum=238 [Accessed 13-3-2010]

Saint Anselm’s Ontological Argument Analysis

Saint Anselm’s Ontological Argument Analysis Barbara Nalls Thesis: In this paper I will investigate Saint Anselm’s Ontological Argument in order to make an attempt at establishing some clear evidence to answer this question; Did Saint Anselm believe in GOD? Argument: Saint Anselm, Archbishop of Canterbury (1033-1109), is the creator of the ontological argument. Saint Anselm’s ontological argument is distinctive from other arguments that attempt to prove that it is the existence of God, the creator, and not just some abstract entity that is being defined. Saint Anselm’s argument reads as follows: In my opinion, while Saint Anselm was a deep thinker, he was even more so, in this case, a deeper writer. I believe the common reader should be able to see the soundness of an argument, so that they may be able toaccept or reject the writer’s position. I think the Ontological Argument of Saint Anselm is unclear because the writing style is confusing and it needs to be more understandable. Maybe a simpler script or updated version of Saint Anselm’s message would clarify his position to ordinary readers like me. Based on Cliffords comment It is never lawful to stifle a doubt, for either it can be honestly answered by means of the inquiry already made, or else it proves that the inquiry was not complete, 2(Encountering the Real,pg. 502). Speak of the devil! Saint Anselm does have a 2nd version of his Ontological Argument, and it states: With all that being said, this version of Saint Anselm’s argument is also about as clear as mud! However, by definition, God is a being than which none greater can be imagined, is now more properly put as follows: Objection(s): Along with his 1st Argument, Saint Anselm’s 2nd version of the Ontological Argument is also believed to have failed in its efforts to clearly state his position to his readers/audience, according to some of his peers. The following names are some of Saint Anselm’s peers along with the some other writers who sighted their objections to the clarity and understandability of his Ontological Argument. Monk, Gaunilo of Marmoutier, a contemporary of Saint Anselm, expressed an important criticism against Saint Anselm’s Ontological Argument. Monk Gaunilo states that Saint Anselm is basically defining things into existence. Monk Gaunilo remarks that he believes this practice is unacceptable. Monk Gaunilo thinks that by using Saint Anselm’s method of argument authors could simply employ such tactics in an attempt to argue and even confirm the existence of all sorts of non-existent things. Saint Thomas Aquinas (1224-1274) wrote that God’s existence is self-evident. Saint Thomas Aquinas believed that since many people have different thoughts of God, Saint Anselm’s Ontological Argument works only to sway those people who would define the idea of God the same way or have the same concepts of God. In Saint Thomas Aquinas’s view he believed, even if everyone had the same concept of God â€Å"it does not therefore follow that he understands what the word signifies exists actually, but only that it exists mentally.† In Saint Thomas Aquinas’ understanding he points out that when we try to connect the phrase â€Å"a being than which none greater can be imagined† with more familiar predictable concepts they don’t help us to get an in depth view of God. Immanuel Kant (1724-1804) directs his famous objection at the third premise of Saint Anselm’s Ontological Argument. This is where Saint Anselm makes the claim that a being that exists as an idea in someone’s mind as well as in reality, is greater than if that being exists only as an idea in just their mind alone. Based on Saint Anselm’s premise number three, existence is what’s understood to be a great-making property or, as sometimes referred to, a perfection. Premise three thus explains that (a) existence is a property; and (b) to characterize existence makes a thing better, if all things are equal, than it would have been otherwise. Immanuel Kant rejects premise three on the ground that, as a purely formal matter, existence does not function as a predicate. While Kant’s criticism is phrased a bit obscurely in terms of thelogicof predicates and copulas, it also makes a conceivable metaphysical point. Existence is not a property like the way that b eing red is a property of an apple. Instead existence is a precondition for the exemplification of things in the sense that, it is not possible for a non-existent thing to exemplify any properties because there is nothing that such a property can stick itself to. Nothing has no qualities whatsoever. To say thatxexemplifies or instantiates a propertyPis hence to presuppose thatxexists. So, with this line of reasoning, existence isn’t a great-making property because it is not a property at all; it is rather a metaphysically necessary condition for the instantiation of any properties. Okay, Immanuel Kant also writes like Saint Anselm, way too deep for the poor little old average readers like me! Responses(s): In response to Saint Anselm’s Ontological Argument, other writers have made modal versions to express their thoughts about his ontological argument, below are two of those responses. The first response to Saint Anselm’s Ontological Argument comes from: (â€Å"Anselm’s Ontological Argument,†Philosophical Review, vol.69, no.1 (1960), 41-62 by Norman Malcolm). According to Malcolm’s view, the existence of an unlimited being is said to be either rationally necessary or logically not possible. Norman Malcolm’s argument for this claim is either that an unlimited being exists or that an unlimited being does not exist; by his logic there are no other possibilities. Reducing Malcom’s argument to its basic elements it would read as follows: The next response to Saint Anselm’s Ontological Argument is from Alvin Plantinga, (God, Freedom, and Evil(New York: Harper and Row, 1974). Plantinga complains that Saint Anselm’s argument is remarkably unconvincing if not downright irritating; he says that it looks too much like a parlor puzzle or some kind of word magic riddle. Not surprisingly, Alvin Plantinga shares my feelings about Saint Anselm’s writings. Finally, here is my response to Saint Anselm’s Ontological Argument. In just my lowly opinion, I think a person who writes in riddles is not out to teach as much as they are out to prove how smart they are. God does not need our help to show his existence, we need His help to see that He exists. This to me is like a child trying to prove they have parents, the process is self-evident. I am, so they are! Conclusion: Per Anselm A being thatnecessarilyexists in reality is greater than a being that does notnecessarilyexist. Thus, by definition, if God exists as an idea in the mind but does not necessarily exist in reality, then we can imagine something that is greater than God. But we cannot imagine something that is greater than God. Thus, if God exists in the mind as an idea, then God necessarily exists in reality. God exists in the mind as an idea. Therefore, God necessarily exists in reality.† In reaction to the above riddle, I investigated several sources to establish clear evidence to answer the question, â€Å"Did Saint Anselm believe in GOD?† My findings were; Saint Anselm wrote, in his 1st version of his ontological argument â€Å"†¦ there is no doubt that there exists a being, than which nothing greater can be conceived, and it exists both in the understanding and in reality.† 1(Anselm, http://www.iep.utm.edu/ont-arg/). In the 2nd version of his Ontological Argument Saint Anselm states: â€Å"God is that, than which nothing greater can be conceived.†¦ And [God] assuredly exists so truly, that it cannot be conceived not to exist†¦ There is, then, so truly a being than which nothing greater can be conceived to exist, that it cannot even be conceived not to exist; and this being thou art, O Lord, our God.† So the answer is YES, Anselm believed that God does exist. Citations: 1(Anselm, http://www.iep.utm.edu/ont-arg/) 2(Encountering the Real,pg. 502) 3(Malcolm, Norman, â€Å"Anselm’s Ontological Argument,†Philosophical Review, vol. 69, no. 1 (1960), 41-62) 4(Plantinga, Alvin,God, Freedom, and Evil(New York: Harper and Row, 1974) Bibliography: Anselm, St.,Anselm’s Basic Writings, translated by S.W. Deane, 2ndEd. (La Salle, IL: Open Court Publishing Co., 1962) Anselm: Ontological Argument for God’s Existence, http://www.iep.utm.edu/ont-arg/ Davenport, Ronald. Saintleo, Modules 1- 4 Lecture Notes. Aquinas, Thomas, St.,Summa Theologica(1a Q2), â€Å"Whether the Existence of God is Self- Evident (Thomas More Publishing, 1981) Kant, Immanuel,Critique of Pure Reason, translated by J.M.D. Meiklejohn (New York: Colonial Press, 1900) Malcolm, Norman, â€Å"Anselm’s Ontological Argument,†Philosophical Review, vol. 69, no. 1 (1960), 41-62 Plantinga, Alvin,God, Freedom, and Evil(New York: Harper and Row, 1974) Saint Leo University. Encountering the Real. 2013 ed. New York: Cengage Custom. Print

Oscar Romero :: essays research papers

Oscar Romero was at first a quiet, ordinary priest in the democratic country of El Salvador. But things change once newly appointed Arch-Bishop. Romero quickly finds out the way the country is run by the military. The poor people of Salvador are missing and being executed by the military. Romero tries to stop these events through the power of the Church. Raul Julia plays Oscar Romero the soft spoken priest turned Arch-Bishop. His character goes through a metamorphoses from beginning to end that eventually gets him killed. The one moment in time that really changes the way he acts is the death of Father Grande. Fr. Grande was a preacher to the poor or anyone who wanted to listen to the Word of the Lord. By the killing and torturing of people Romero gets very angry and says STOP! In one scene while in prison listening to a priest get tortured, he doesn’t understand why one human being would do this to another. We are all human and why should their life be taken away if they have done nothing. The Church in this movie are people very strong in their faith and stand up for what they believe in. For example, When the people of one city walk right into a church that has been taken over by the military. This shows their willingness to die for God. Other acts show the people of El Salvador courage and deep faith. I thought that this was a very good movie. The strong imagery and sadness that these events really occur in El Salvador and other countries like it. The words of Romero were inspiring, the way he presented himself after every bad act by the military he just turned the

Segregation in the College Student Center Essay -- University Student

Segregation in the College Student Center As I walked into the University Student Center after my Issues in Public Policy class one August day, a disturbing sight immediately struck me. For a moment I thought I needed to pinch myself because I felt as though I was having a horrible nightmare. Then, I thought that maybe I needed to check my calendar to make sure that I had not traveled back in time to the sixties when segregation was still an accepted practice in the United States. Much to my dismay, I was not dreaming, and it was still in the year 2000. As I continued to look around at my fellow students, my stomach churned, and it was not because I was hungry. The sight that lay before my eyes was not only very disturbing but also very common at the University. Although the Supreme Court in 1954 in Brown vs. The Topeka Board of Education declared segregation illegal, our student center today probably looks the way diners looked thirty years ago. Blacks are sitting in a secluded section of the Student Center; while whites ar e sitting in their own self-designated section. The segregation between blacks and whites in the Student Center is simply a natural occurrence between the two races. The University does not have guidelines on what section blacks and whites are supposed to sit in; nevertheless, blacks and whites naturally separate because of years of legal segregation. Segregation in our society has become a natural occurrence even though segregation is illegal today. The question that needs to be raised is "Why?" Why is de facto segregation still accepted in the United States? Why is a prominent city like Lexington still facing many of the problems it faced thirty years ago? The answers lie in our culture and our horrif... ...en the noblest of people cannot contain. It is a haunting ghost that no one can see, and it is the devil of our cities that many do not even know exist. Racial profiling, inequality, and segregation will remain in cities as long as our culture allows it. As long as we allow white supremacy and black inferiority to be prevalent in our culture, we are going to continue to have problems in our cities. Works Cited Adams, Jim. "Study: Police Stopped Blacks Twice As Often As Whites." The Courier-Journal 29 Oct. 2000: Al, All. Bell, Derrick. And We Are Not Saved. New Haven & London: Yale University Press, 1987. Mills, Charles W. The Racial Contract. London: Corneff University Press, 1997. Ogburn, William "Social Change and Race Rehitions." Race Relations. Eds. Jitsuichi Masuoka and Preston Valiem. Chapel Hill: The University of North Carolina Press, 1961. 201.

Term Paper on Interracial Marriages

TABLE OF CONTENTS Acknowledgement Chapter One – The Problem and Its Scope Introduction 2 Statement of the Problem 4 Review of Related Literature 5 Significance of the Study 7 Scope and Limitation 9 Definition of Terms 10 Organization of the Study 12 Chapter Two – Research Design and Methodology Research Method 14 Research Instrument 14 Research Environment 14 Research Subject 15 Research Procedure 16 Statistical Treatment of the Data 17 Chapter Three – Presentation, Interpretation and Analysis of Data 18 Chapter Four – Summary, Conclusions and Recommendations Summary 43 Conclusion 45 Recommendations 47 Bibliography 50 Appendices Appendix A – Letters Appendix B – Sample Questionnaires Appendix C – Pictures Appendix D – Respondent’s Directory Introduction Marriage, a legally recognized relationship, established by a civil or religious ceremony, between two people who intend to live together as sexual and domestic partners. The joining together in wedlock of two people, something which supposed to be and should be considered sacred as well as wonderful. It is a in which commitment two people are bound to one another and are obligated to promise to one another that they love, care and be loyal to each other through all times. A beautiful thing†¦yet sadly some people do it out of what benefits they might receive from it, may it be money, fame or any other superficial thing in this world. But there are times that these people do it out of need. This brings us to talk about interracial marriages. Interracial marriages, though in the past had been considered taboo, aren’t rare sites anymore, may it be in the Philippines or other parts of the world. However, just because now it isn’t forbidden by the law (as there was a time when there was a law made against it), it doesn’t mean that all of us give the go signal. Interracial marriages will most likely create various outcomes. These effects will not only affect the family members and friends of the spouses, they can also affect other individuals of the community. They could even affect the whole society especially now these days where there are studies which show that there has been a rise in the percentage of these marriages. These Filipinos went into these marriages for different reasons, they could have done it for love or for the benefits that come with the spouse. Now, the reason the researchers have selected to do this study is for them to learn what people really think about these marriages and what effects it could possibly bring about the Philippine Society. Hopefully this study will be able to help the Filipino people understand these interracial couples better and to prepare the Filipino people for what changes may be stimulated by these marriages, may they be good or bad. Statement of the Problem The researchers aim to find out what people think about interracial marriages and what possible effects these marriages could induce to the Philippine society. They also aim to get the Filipino people ready for what alterations interracial marriages could create. While making the study, the researchers hope to answer the following questions: o Are interracial marriages still found unusual? o What are the factors that lead to interracial marriages? o How will these marriages affect the Philippine Society? Review of Related Literature In the Chronicle Online, there is an article there entitled â€Å"Interracial Relationships Are On The Increase In U. S. But Decline With Age, Cornell Study Finds† which talks about the increase in number of marriages between different kinds of races through the years. It also has findings that these relationships decline with age because the youngest age bracket ranked the highest among these relationships and the middle age bracket ranked second while the oldest age bracket ranked last. Despite the fact that these findings were based in the U. S. , it somehow gives the researchers an idea of how relatio nships between different races affected another country. From this article, they could already come up with a possible outcome. In a 2003 study, once again based in the United States, by Kara Joyner (assistant professor of policy analysis and management at Cornell and co-author of a study on interracial relationships in a recent issue of the American Sociological Review) it was reported that adolescents in romances with another race were significantly less willing to reveal their relationship to family and close friends than those in same-race relationships, suggesting that such relationships still do not receive whole-hearted approval by society. The researchers could try to compare these findings to the results they are about to come across and see the difference. In an article in The Freeman Magazine of October 2002 tells about a relationship of one Leyte-born Filipina, Theresa Mason nee Estafia, to British national, Chris Mason, which ended in marriage. This is proof that happy endings between two lovers of different races aren’t impossible. The book, Chinese American Intermarriage, is also a study based on the Chinese American experiences in New York City, focuses on the increase of these relationships, the attraction and the obstacles, of which the most significant is still family objection. This book and the rest of these articles may be helpful to the researchers later on in the study especially when analyzing and interpreting the data. Significance of the Study Interracial relationships, marriages to be specific, aren’t as rare as they used to be in the Philippines. The researchers have arranged this study in order to find out what the Filipino people’s opinion on these kinds of marriages are since these marriages were once considered somehow taboo, and how Filipino people think these kinds of marriages could affect the Philippine society. The researchers hope that by making this study, they could help the following: o People who plan to have an interracial marriage– They would know what effects they are most probably going to bring about to the Philippine Society and see if they are making the right decision marrying these foreigners. o Couples (interracial) – They will know what effects they are bringing about to the Philippine Society. They will also get an insight of what the Filipino people take their (the interracial couple’s) marriages for. Foreigners (with Filipino partners) – They will get an insight of what they are getting themselves into or have gotten themselves into. It will also help them speculate on their relationship, if it really is based on love or money. o Country – It will be prepared for the disadvantages these marriages could bring about and know how to handle these possible drawbacks. Scope and Limitation The researchers are to survey 100 selected residents of Cebu for their term paper. The respondents play a vital role in the making of this term paper because their answers would serve as the key to unfolding this study. The term paper will deal with the opinions of selected Cebu Residents on interracial marriages between a Filipino citizen and a foreigner, and its effects to the Philippine Society. The researchers are given four weeks, more or less, to make this requirement. In creating the term paper, the researchers have allotted an amount of 400 pesos for purpose such as photo copying and other possible needs. The researchers also need to have sources such as the internet, books, newspapers, encyclopedia or any other articles that would be able to help them gain more knowledge on interracial marriages and its possible effects to the Philippine Society by doing so, helping them come up with an effective study. Definition of Terms Benefits – money, to move out of the country, escaping a life of hardship/poverty Cebu residents – any Filipino who currently lives in the province of Cebu Effects – changes which can possibly be done Filipino citizen/person – an individual who was born to Filipino parents and raised in the Philippines Foreigner – a person who was born to natives of countries other than the Philippines and raised in a country other than the Philippines Go Signal – approval Induce – bring about Interracial – between a Filipino and a foreigner Interracial Couples – a couple composed of a Filipino and a foreigner Interracial Marriage – a marriage of a Filipino Citizen to a foreigner Marriage – a legal union of two people through a ceremony called a wedding Partner – spouse/lover Philippine Society – the people of the Philippines Respondents – the people selected to answer the survey Taboo – forbidden The Researchers – the people who have conducted the study (namely: Trysha Bautista, Kimberly Bouffard, Sherry Corominas, Eileen Cueno and Miles Semblante) Organization of the Study This term paper consists of four chapters. Each chapter contains contents which are vital to the researchers in order to help future readers understand the researchers study further. The first chapter is the Problem and Its Scope; it contains the introduction, which more or less is a general summary of what the term paper is all about, the statement of the problem shows the aim or objective of the study through general statement questions, and the review of related literature is information/research about previous studies or projects made which are related to the study the researchers have made. The significance of the study states why the study is important, and to whom the study is important to. In the scope and limitation, future readers will know what grounds the researchers can cover and what their certain restrictions are. The definition of terms will help future readers understand the terms the researchers have used in their study and how these words are used. Chapter two, the Research Design and Methodology, consists of the research methods, research instrument, and statistical treatment of the data. The research methods describe how the researchers gathered their data to come up with their output. The research instrument tackles about the materials/instruments used to complete the study. The statistical treatment of data covers the numerical information in the study. The third chapter, the Presentation, Interpretation and Analysis of data, like the title itself, is just the researchers’ presentation, interpretation and analysis of their data. Chapter four is the Summary, Conclusion and Interpretation; it consists of the summary which is a sum-up and a review of the whole study, the conclusion which is the closing statement and the recommendation. Research Method For the study on interracial marriages and its effects to the Philippine society, the researchers used a survey type in order to gain more knowledge on the said topic. With the use of questionnaires, the researchers are to learn more about what the residents of Cebu think about interracial marriages and how these marriages could affect the Philippine society. Research Instruments The main instrument that the researchers utilized for the purpose of this study was the questionnaire made up of 8 questions. Computers, internet access, encyclopedias, books and some periodicals were also necessary in the making of this term paper. Research Environment The researchers made questionnaires which were distributed to selected Cebu residents living in these following areas: Tisa, Banilad, Banawa and Talisay. The researchers chose those areas because those areas of Cebu are most convenient for them, given that they live in the said areas and that the researchers believed that the residents in these areas would readily share their opinions on the topic and that they are exposed to these kinds of relationships. The other half of respondents were randomly selected in Ayala Center Cebu because they had an idea that most foreigners were to be found there and they also wanted to know what regular people thought of their topic. Research Subject The researchers asked various respondents to answer the questionnaires they made for their survey. They selected people who they supposed were exposed to interracial marriages or any kind of interracial relationships because they believe these people could give them the knowledge they require in order for their study to be a success. They also chose ordinary people at the mall because they wanted to get what regular people thought of the topic. They opted to let foreigners answer their questionnaires as well, as to see what these outsiders think about marriages of one of their kind to a Filipino. Research Procedure The researchers had brainstormed on possible topics that they might have for their term paper. They proposed their topics to their Social Studies III teacher and then she approved of the topic on interracial marriages and its effects to the society. After which, they studied on whatever they could on the said topic which would help them formulate questions for their questionnaire. Once they have completed the creation of their questionnaire, they distributed 100 copies to various respondents and then collected them when they were completely answered. Then they recorded the data they gathered, made a graph out of it, interpreted and analyzed it, and made a conclusion out of it. Statistical Treatment of Data The study needs to be studied with complete accuracy so that their data may be analyzed and interpreted correctly. In order to accomplish that, they used this formula: %= f/n * 100% f=frequency n=number of respondents/answers Question #1: Do you find it unusual seeing a Filipino together with a foreigner? Table #1 Respondents Opinion on Filipinos Being Together with Foreigners N= 100 |Response |Frequency |Percentage | |Yes |25 |25% |No |75 |75% | | | |Total 100% | Graph #1 [pic] Interpretation The table and graph above shows that 75 out of 100 or 75% of the respondents do not find it unusual seeing a Filipino together with a foreigner. On the other hand, 25 out of 100 or 25% of the respondents do find it unusual. Analysis The results show that interracial relationships aren’t considered to be as scarce as they used to be in the past. Therefore, it is somewhat safe to say that interracial marriages aren’t considered as uncommon as well. It also goes to show that these days the Filipino people are exploring other cultures and they aren’t scared of criticism since one would easily spot an interracial couple in a public place, such as malls. Question #2: Why do you think they prefer to marry foreigners over fellow countrymen? Table #2 Respondents’ Opinion as to Why Some Filipinos Prefer to Marry Foreigners over Fellow Filipinos N= 141 |Response |Frequency |Percentage | |Because foreigners can provide a life of |65 |46% | |luxury for these Filipinos | | | |Because they want to move out of the |33 23% | |country | | | |They just happen to love them |21 |15% | |Because of Physical appearance |12 |9% | |Other |10 |7% | | | |Total 100% | Graph #2 [pic] Interpretation The figures above show that 46% think that some Filipinos choose to marry foreigners over fellow Filipinos because believe that these foreigners can provide them with a life of luxury. 23% assume that they do it because they want to move out of the country. There are 15% who feel that these Filipinos just happen to love their foreign partners. There are also 9% who think that these Filipinos chose foreigners over Filipinos because of physical appearance. The last 7% have other reasons. Analysis Life and luxury takes the highest position to why people prefer to marry foreigners over fellow countrymen. This is maybe because of the situation the country is in now. It has also been found out from the research and gathered data that ‘wants’ are big priorities with this issue. In this survey, of the gathered data above, these marriages work out well because the couple can find beneficial things and they can adjust to the situation. Question #3: What do you think are the most probable reason for their marriages? Table #3 Respondents’ Opinion for the Most Probable Reason for Their Marriages N= 175 Response |Frequency |Percentage | |Love |20 |11% | |Money |39 |22% | |Convenience (to live in a good house, live |58 |24% | |a life of luxury) | | | |To get out of the country |30 |17% | |To have beautiful offspri ng |14 |8% | |Others |14 |8% | | | |Total 100% | Graph #3 [pic] Interpretation The data shows that 11% percent of them think that the reason is because of love. There 22% of them think that it is because of money. 24% is because of the convenience to live in a good house and to have a life of luxury. There are 17% of them who thinks that it is because that the Filipinos could have the chance to get out of the country. There are also 8% of them who thinks that it is because they could have a beautiful offspring. The last 8% have other reasons. Analysis In the data the highest percentage is that of the convenience to live in a good house and to have a life of luxury. The second highest rate of percentage is money. With these two having the highest tallies, it makes a speculation as to what these marriages are really about, because it seems to be based more on money than on love. Question #4: What do you think are the Factors That Make Interracial Marriages Difficult? Table #4 Respondents’ Opinion on What Make Interracial Marriages Difficult N= 118 Response |Frequency |Percentage | |Money |22 |19% | |Cultural Differences |75 |63% | |Location of residence |19 |16% | |Others |2 |2% | | | |Total 100% | Graph #4 [pic] Interpretation The data shows that there are 19% of them who think that it is because of money. 63% thinks that it is because of the cultural differences. 16% of the data shows that it is because of the location of residents. The last 2% percent have their own personal reasons. Analysis In the data the highest percentage is because of cultural differences. This shows that no matter how much you love each other, there will always be problems, and the problems that occur between these couples are cause by the fact that they were brought up in two different worlds. Question #5: What do you think the foreigners find in their Filipino partners? Table #5 Response |Frequency |Percentage | |Love |32 |27% | |Companionship |78 |67% | |Others |7 |6% | | | |Total 100% | Graph #5 [pic] Interpretation The data shows that majority, 67% of our respondents think that it’s companionship that foreigners find in their Filipino partners, 27% thinks that it’s love, and the remaining 6%, on others. Analysis The data goes to show that majority think that these foreigners find companionship in their Filipino partners. And given the fact that Filipinos are very hospitable people, it really doesn’t seem such a surprise why they would choose Filipinos for companionship. Question #6: Do you think interracial marriages work out well? Table #6 Respondents’ Opinion on Whether or Not Interracial Marriages Work Out N= 100 |Response |Frequency |Percentage | |Yes |63 |63% |No |36 |36% | |It depends |1 |1% | | | |Total 100% | Graph #6 [pic] Interpretation The table and graph above show that 63 out of 100 of 63% of the respondents do believe that interracial marriages can work out. On the other hand 36% believe that these marriages will not last and 1% said that it would d epend. Analysis This shows that majority think these marriages do work out while a few believe that they don’t. A very small minority says that it would just really depend. This gives the impression that maybe these marriages do work out given that majority suppose so as well. Question #6. 1: If YES Table #6. 1 Respondents’ Opinions as to Why Interracial Marriages Work Out Well N= 118 |Response |Frequency |Percentage | |Love conquers all |19 |46% | |If one finds something in the marriage |95 |81% | |beneficial, he/she will have to adjust to | | | |his/her spouse | | |Others |4 |3% | | | |Total 100% | Graph #6. 1 [pic] Interpretation The graph and table above show that 81% of the 63 who answered that interracial marriages will work out think that these marriages will work out most likely because if one finds something in the marriage beneficial, he/she will have to adjust to his/her spouse. 16% had the idea that love conquers all while 8% had other things in mind. Analysis This shows that most of the respondents think that these Filipinos and foreigners will adjust to their spouses if they find something in their marriage beneficial. A few think that love conquers all while the rest thought otherwise. This goes to show that a lot of people think these marriages are based on convenience rather that love. However; despite that, these marriages will work for the reason that if they find something which could be of their advantage in the wedlock, they would just have to be flexible and understand each other. Question #6. 2: If NO Table #6. 1 Respondents’ Opinions as to Why Interracial Marriages Will Not Work Out Well N= 74 |Response |Frequency |Percentage | |They were brought up into different world, |29 |39% |they wouldn’t understand each other | | | |If the relationship isn’t based on love, it|42 |57% | |won’t last | | | |Others |3 |4% | | | |Total 100% | Graph #6. 2 [pic] Interpretation The data shows that 57% of the respondents who didn’t think interracial marriages work out had the idea that if the relationship wasn’t based on love in the first place, that relationship wouldn’t last. On the other hand, 39% of the respondents said that being brought up into different cultures would be a hindrance to the relationship while 4% though otherwise. Analysis The data shows that majority think that these relationships wouldn’t last because they weren’t based on love whilst another minority thinks differently. If related to the previous analyses, this gives the impression that maybe these marriages aren’t really based on love after all. Question #7: How do you think these marriages would affect the Philippine society? Table #7 Respondents’ Opinions as to How Interracial Marriages Would Affect the Philippine Society N= 108 |Response |Frequency Percentage | |It will make us lose our identities as |30 |28% | |Filipinos | | | |The Filipino people will be branded as |50 |46% | |â€Å"Gold Diggers† | | | |Others |28 |26% | | | |100% | Graph #7 [pic] Interpretation The figures above show that out of the 3 given choices for possible effects in terracial marriages would bring about, majority think that the Filipino people will be branded as â€Å"Gold Diggers† with a frequency of 50 over 108 or 46%. The idea that Filipinos would lose their identities follows with the frequency of 30 over 108 or 28%. The remaining 26% fall under the category others. Analysis The table and graph above show that most people think that these marriages would make other nations brand us as â€Å"Gold Diggers† while only a few think that we’d lose our identities. Another minority also think otherwise. This gives the impression that these marriages are based on money or else they wouldn’t think that these marriages would make other nations brand us as so. It also gives the impression that Filipinos have a strong sense of character since only a few worry of Filipinos losing their identities. Question #8: All in all do you think these marriages are for the better or worse of the country? Table #8 Respondents’ Opinion if Interracial Marriages are for the Better or Worse of the Country N= 100 Response |Frequency |Percentage | |Better |78 |78% | |Worse |18 |18% | |Neither |4 |4% | | | |Total 100% | Graph#8 [pic] Interpretation From the data above, it can be seen that 78 out of 100 or 78% believe that interracial marriages are for the b etter of the Philippines. The thought that these marriages are for the worse of the country come in second with a frequency of 18 over 100 or 18%. The remaining 4% think neither. Analysis The table and graph above show that most people think that these marriages would actually be good of the Philippines. A few think that they are actually far the worse while another minority thinks neither. This goes to show that a lot of people are optimistic about what interracial marriages will bring about to the Philippine society. Summary Interracial marriages have augmented as the years have gone by, even though it was once considered a grave taboo. This study has been conducted as to see what the people currently living in the Cebu Province think of these interracial marriages and how it might affect the Philippine society. The researchers have gone through various tasks. Once the researchers have decided on having interracial marriages and their effects to the Philippine society as a topic, they had it approved and started to research on anything they could find on interracial marriages. They made use of different resources such as books, magazines, newspapers and the internet to acquire more knowledge on the topic in order to draw out a problem. They then chose a survey type of research to find the answer to it. They then made the first chapter which contains the introduction, the statement of the problem, the review of related literature, the significance of the study, the scope and limitation, the definition of terms and the organization of the study. Then they have devised a questionnaire which should get the respondents’ opinion on the topic. After which the researchers determined the method of research they were to use for this term paper, the procedure they would follow, the instruments they would utilize, the environment they would cover and the subjects whose opinions they were going to ask of. Once they finished determining the following above, they put what they have settled on into writing. They distributed the questionnaires to the selected and random respondents and later retrieved them. Subsequently they recorded, graphed, interpreted, analyzed and concluded the data. Conclusion After many days and weeks of hard work which needed much patience, perseverance, endurance, sweat and blood, the researchers were able to arrive at certain conclusions which would answer the different objectives stated in the earlier chapter of the study. These days, it isn’t very unusual for most people to see a Filipino with a oreigner, because you can see a lot of these people in the malls, indicating that most of these couples are not afraid of exposing their relationships to the public and aren’t afraid of what people might think of them. Most of the respondents think that a life of luxury is the most probable reason for these interracial marriages and why these Filipinos choose to marry foreigners over their fellow countrymen. In any marriage, there will always be difficulties, but in an interracial one, the most likely reason which bought about their matrimonial problems would be because of their cultural differences, because these people have been brought up in two entirely different worlds. But a lot of people think that even if those interracial couple would face those kinds of dilemmas, their marriages would still work out well since they believe that if one finds something in the marriage beneficial, he/she would just have to adjust to his/her spouse. However, majority feel that with these kinds of marriages growing in number in the Philippines, the Filipino people would be branded as gold diggers, but nevertheless, most of the respondents believe that these marriages would be for the better of the country. These marriages are considered to be for the better of the Philippines by most respondents for various reasons. Some say that in a way, it will boost our economy and tourism, that it will lessen the overcrowding here in the Philippines, and that more beautiful Filipinos would be created that way. Recommendation There are a lot of factors to consider as to why these Filipinos have decided to tie the knot with their lovers from distant lands. Majority think that these Filipinos chose to wed these foreigners because these outsiders are the fastest ticket there is to living a life of luxury. Marriage is no joking matter, and to marry an individual who has grown up from an almost completely different lifestyle isn’t easy. These marriages will not only affect the families of the spouses, they will affect everybody in a way. The researchers would like to recommend this study to the following: o Interracial Couples (married or not) This study will definitely help them make the right decision as to where to take their relationships. With the insight of other people, they might be able to reflect if their liaison will actually take them somewhere. It will aid them in trying to understand each other, especially with the fact that they come from two totally different worlds, helping them adjust to one another so that they might not lose their identities. It might also help them prepare themselves for all possible consequences they might have to face, especially if their relationship is not based on love. o Teenagers Despite the fact that entering an interracial marriage (or any marriage for that matter) should be the farthest things on their minds as of the moment, this study should be able to prepare them for what action they should take before deciding to walk down the aisle. Hopefully, this study would also help them try to improve how other countries view o People who plan to enter an interracial marriage It might make them contemplate on the decisions they are about to make, especially on marrying a foreigner. It should make them aware that by entering these marriages, some people have branded us gold diggers. But more importantly, it should help them contemplate on what they would get themselves in to by getting wed to a foreigner. o Other Researchers With Similar Studies This study will help other researchers with similar studies because it will give them an idea of what to do in their research. It might also serve them as a basis of information. Bibliography Electronic Sources: Websites: Alouise, Nacy John. â€Å"Interracial Marriages and the Effects on Children. † Race, Racism and the Law. 1998. 5 Jan. 2006 . Beaver, Laura. â€Å"Interracial Relationships: A Historical Perspective. † Interracial Relationships. 2000. 28 Dec. 2005 . Lang, Susan S. â€Å"Interracial relationships are on the increase in U. S. , but decline with age, Cornell study finds. † Chronicle Online. 2 Nov. 2005. 5 Jan. 2006 . Le, C. n. â€Å"Interracial Dating & Marriage. † Asian-Nation: The Landscape of Asian America. 2005. 4 Jan. 2006 . Pramschufer, Megan. â€Å"Interracial Relationships of the Chinese Americans. † Interracial Relationships. 2000. 28 Dec. 2005 . Saia, Stefanie. The Transition to Romantic Relationships: Statistics on Interracial Marriage. † Interracial Relationships. 2000. 28 Dec. 2005 . Sailer, Steve. â€Å"Is Love Colorblind? † Steve Sailer-Articles & Blog on Human Biodiversity, Genetics, Sports, Race, Gender, Immigration. 14 Jul y 1997. 5 Jan. 2006 . Sailer, Steve. â€Å"On Interracial Marriage. † VDARE. 17 Sept. 2002. 5 Jan. 2006 . Sonnie, Heather. â€Å"Interracial Relationships with respect to the Caste System in India. † Interrcial Relationships. 2000. 28 Dec. 2005 . Print Sources: Magazines: Kintanar, Han. â€Å"Dreaming of A Happy Ending. † The Freeman Magazine Oct. 2002: g+. Books: Sung, Betty Lee. Chinese American Intermarriage. New York: Center for Migration Studies, 1989.

Reverse Logistics

REVERSE LOGISTICS SUPERVISED BY: ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR M. RAKOVSKA PREPARED BY: TATYANA BLAGOEVA FACULTY NUMBER: 10114004 Contents A Supply Chain Opportunity3 What is Reverse Logistics? 3 Case Examples4 Money is Hidden in Returns5 Reverse Logistics Completes the Supply Chain System6 Reverse Logistics and the Supply Chain Maturity Model11 Concluding Case Study Example13 The results were impressive:14 A Supply Chain Opportunity Most practitioners have their own understanding of the fundamental processes involved in an extended supply chain network.The novice will tell you it starts upstream with suppliers supplying suppliers, moves through manufacturing and production and goes downstream through distributors or direct to the business customers. An improvement effort starts within the four walls of a business by drawing a process map and working on product, information and financial flows to improve the key steps in the linkage that will save time, money and use of assets. The journeyman will go further and explain that a supply chain continues externally, until products and services have been delivered to the end consumer.System improvement involves order management, planning and distribution, inventory management and effective customer satisfaction. This counselor knows that supply chain is about bringing the key process steps to best practice and optimized conditions, while receiving high satisfaction ratings from the customers and consumers. The seasoned professional will shake his or her head and calmly explain that the journey is not ended until the products and services elivered have been accepted. If there is dissatisfaction with the results of the supply chain and something is returned, the processing continues. We stand with those who favor this extended enterprise view of supply chain, which results in the total satisfaction of the end consumer. There is a great opportunity in that sense, to focus on the generally forgotten or too often lower priority are a of attention given to finishing the job – going the last few feet in the linkage.When it comes to completing the end-to-end processing, companies should do two things: * Take the full view and understand the total cost of supply chain, which includes having and dealing with returns * Realize the opportunity that an analysis of the return part of the system offers in terms of finding and solving problems, better satisfying customers and consumers, and discovering a way to increase revenues What is Reverse Logistics?When considering any area of business as an opportunity for improvement, begin with having an understanding of just what you are trying to change. What is Reverse Logistics? The broader concept of  logistics  is described by The Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP) as:   The process of planning, implementing, and controlling the efficient, cost effective flow of raw materials, in-process inventory, finished goods and related information f rom the point of origin to the point of consumption for the purpose of conforming to customer requirements.Wikipedia defines the narrower concept we are considering as:  Reverse logistics is the logistics process of removing new or used products from their initial point in a supply chain, such as returns from consumers, over stocked inventory, or outdated merchandise and redistributing them using disposition management rules that will result in maximized value at the end of the item’s useful life. For our purposes, reverse logistics includes all the activities that are mentioned in the definition above, with the difference that reverse logistics encompasses all of these activities as they operate in reverse.Therefore, according to authorities Dr. Dale S. Rogers and Dr. Ronald S Tibben-Lembke, reverse logistics becomes: The process of planning, implementing, and controlling the efficient, cost effective flow of raw materials, in-process inventory, finished goods and related information from the point of consumption to the point of origin for the purpose of recapturing value or proper disposal. To settle on a specific definition, reverse logistics is the process of moving goods from their typical final destination for the purpose of capturing value, or achieving proper disposal to the satisfaction of the customer or consumer.Remanufacturing and refurbishment activities may be part of the procedure. Reverse logistics includes processing returned merchandise due to damage, seasonal inventory, restock, salvage, recalls, and excess inventory. It also includes recycling programs, hazardous material programs, obsolete equipment disposition, and asset recovery. For a practitioner, the disposition choice is determined by the most profitable alternative: * Reconditioning –  when a product is cleaned and repaired to return it to a â€Å"like new† state Refurbishing –  similar to reconditioning, except with perhaps more work involved in re pairing the product. * Remanufacturing –  similar to refurbishing, but requiring more extensive work; often requires completely disassembling the product * Resell –  when a returned product may be sold again as new * Recycle –  when a product is reduced to its basic elements, which are reused – also referred to as asset recovery. Case Examples A business printer field service and reverse logistics model helps explain how an operating system works.The process for such a firm starts when a business customer with a problem calls an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) or third party customer support contact, both of which are used in an attempt to diagnose the problem and provide problem resolution instructions if applicable. An OEM field technician or third party certified technician attempts to repair the equipment on-site. If unable to make the repair, the unit is sent to the OEM or certified third party repair facility, where a regional-based loan er or exchange program may be available. The unit is then repaired at the OEM or third party repair facility.The OEM then ships the returned unit or comparable unit back to the customer, or places the unit in used stock if an exchange is previously provided. A field technician is then scheduled to install the loaner unit, exchange units, or repair equipment at the customer site   As an example, consider firms involved in the aftermarket sales and services business, and how reverse logistics plays a role. Products in this business can include accessories, replacement parts, and repair and service parts. The services could include: product and technical support, training, product documentation, warranty and claims management, and field service repairs.As an adjunct to these products and services, reverse logistics fits the definition by providing for: exchanges and in-warranty repair, out-of-warranty repair, maintenance, upgrades and retrofits, remanufacturing, and end-of-life asset recovery and hazardous material disposal. In the aftermarket business, field services and reverse logistics are generally considered one of the harder areas to manage, coordinate and operate efficiently. The area is often forgotten or given little consideration regarding launch of new products, importance to overall customer satisfaction and loyalty, and company profits.In a specific case example of how complex the situation can become and how allowances are made to assure proper services are provided, we can take a look at what Microsoft did when it decided to introduce its XBOX. The details help make the point about the importance of paying attention to the full supply spectrum, including reverse logistics. Microsoft decided to have the main product manufactured by Flextronics. Accessories would be produced by a variety of manufacturers. Distributors and electronics retailers were to perform the warehousing, distribution, and end customer sales functions.Solectron was used for af termarket warranty and customer repair services. Microsoft took the time to ensure the above capabilities were fully operational before the first XBOX was sold to an end consumer and that any returns would be processed effectively by the designated party. In another example, a cell phone reverse logistics model proved very beneficial for a firm selling such products under their brand name. This firm had the cell phones manufactured by LG Industries, Samsung, Motorola and others. Accessories were again manufactured by a variety of firms.Order taking and initial end consumer billing was performed by Amazon. Forward logistics, including warehousing, carrier service programming and order fulfillment were performed by CellStar. Cellular carriers such as Verizon and Sprint provided the monthly service. Extended warranty and product protection insurance was provided by lock/line. The customer call center service and reverse logistics was performed by CellStar. Money is Hidden in Returns Re asonable estimates made of the costs involved in the area we are considering indicate that reverse logistics as a part of supply chain could equal a half percent of the U.S. Gross Domestic Product, an enormous sum that often simply detracts from financial performance. Saving some of that money is one avenue for finding benefits. Understanding how to use reverse logistics to differentiate a business and build satisfaction and revenues with customers is generally hidden in the twilight of this area. If we take a look under the covers of this often neglected part of supply chain, we’ll see how a company can better understand the opportunities to eliminate many of the reasons for returns and turn dissatisfaction into satisfaction.The idea is to take a look and consider where you might do a better job with a nuisance part of your business. Let’s start by considering some common objective for reverse logistics initiatives. These include: †¢Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Improved customer satisfaction and loyalty †¢Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Reduced repair / replacement unit costs †¢Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Reduced replacement turnaround times †¢Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Feedback on hardware design and ease of use †¢Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Feedback on OEM quality †¢Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Feedback on end consumer education and first level customer support †¢Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Improve understanding of real reasons for hardware returns †¢Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Reduce overall level of returns   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Standardize returns processes across enterprise where possible/desired †¢Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Utilize common systems across enterprise and automate the returns process to the extent possible/desired †¢Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Handle increased volumes of returns due to new products, programs, business par tners †¢Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Enable demand driven supply chain concepts for returned products †¢Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Differentiate company services from the competition Reverse Logistics Completes the Supply Chain System Exhibit 1 – Reverse Logistics: Returns, Customer Service, Field Service, Repair and  ReplacementNow let’s look at how you turn the objectives into benefits. A glance at Exhibit 1 shows reverse logistics can include a multiplicity of actions, from returning goods from a consumer to the retailer or provider, receiving customer service or   having field service take place to repair or fix the item in question, or having the product sent to a third party for repair or replacement. The fact is that reverse logistics includes virtually all of these services, and we counsel a broad perspective should be taken to not let this area be a burden to the business.Most companies tend to place the involved operations in the hands of a subsidiary part of an existing logistics function and pay little attention to the effect it can have on the company’s brand, financial performance or supply chain efficiency. A better view is to take a harder look at this area of the supply chain and find ways to turn what is typically a nuisance into something of value to the business. To make sense out of what we’re considering, let’s remember that reverse logistics includes all of the activity related to the final disposition of products that must be removed from the supply chain system.Such activity involves the processes related to removing products from a supply chain that do not have value for the customer or end consumer. These products may be the result of poor workmanship, over-stocked inventory, outdated or obsolete design, damages, or general dissatisfaction with product performance. For whatever reason, someone at the end of the downstream side of the supply chain says â€Å"I don’t wa nt it† and the smart supplier will make it easy to return the goods.The goal is to make certain the least damage is done to the firm’s brand and reputation, and to handle the process so it results in a positive rather than a negative impression. A system of disposition management is required to handle such situations in an effective and rewarding manner, with the understanding that reverse logistics is far different than forward logistics. In the return situation, there must be a convenient point of collection for receiving the goods or to remove these goods from the supply chain.This process step can require inspection, re-packaging, storage, and salvage of any residual value that might exist; and the development of a transportation mode that is compatible with the existing forward system of supply. The range includes credits for unwanted goods that are returned to inventory, payment for damage that may or may not be a fault of the supplier, replacement of obsolete pro duct, and simply accepting the return of goods that have no apparent problem. Much of the goods in the last category are re-conditioned or re-packaged to go back into the system or to an alternate buyer.There are many examples of firms using this type of system to turn what used to be an out-of-pocket loss into a profit by re-selling the returned goods to a satisfied customer. Exhibit 2 – Reverse Logistics Model – Small Logistics Partner In the model depicted above, the partner receives the returned goods and makes a test to determine if the need is for disposal, there is a major defect and the unit must be repaired, or there is a cosmetic defect and the unit can be refurbished. In either of the latter cases, the unit is repaired and placed in stock for subsequent used stock order fulfillment.In a broader situation, as shown in exhibit 3, the process becomes more involved. Now we see the unit is returned based on the â€Å"return from† location and goes to a des ignated center. The same type of processing takes place, but may also include factory direct repair if authorized by the OEM. This model is more appropriate where large volumes of product are to be processed. Exhibit 3 – Reverse Logistics Model – Large Repair Partners A model used by a satellite TV service provider is described in exhibit 4, where we see different business partners being used for returns processing and minor defect removal versus major product defect repair.Exhibit 4 – Model for Satellite TV Service Provider Where there is sufficient volume, cost savings for using a regional test and refurbishment center can be significant. As shown in exhibit 5, we see the results of an actual example. In this case, the total annual savings of $3. 5 million was based on 1. 4 million returns. Exhibit 5 – Projected Cost Savings for Refurbishment Center Reverse Logistics and the Supply Chain Maturity Model Improving the reverse logistics process starts with making selections from the list of objectives a firm wants to accomplish with its attention to this generally neglected area of supply chain.Our list includes the following common intentions: * Improved customer satisfaction and loyalty – don’t lose customers because of a bad experience * Reduced repair, replacement or re-shipment costs – handle the process in an effective manner * Gain feedback from the process to eliminate root causes – demonstrate to the customer that the firm studies its problems and makes them go away * Improve understanding of the reasons for returns – get to the bottom of why the system did not function in a fail-safe manner * Utilize common systems and automate the returns process to the extent possible – Find the way to turn a problem into an opportunity for better customer satisfaction and a source of revenue * Differentiate the firm’s services from those of the competition – Use the experience to ga in customer confidence and build new sales With such a list in hand, the next step is to determine what is currently taking place to meet the objectives versus what must be done to assure they are fully met. The procedure must follow some basic principles, including: * Move credit/flag product receipt point for returned product as close to the customer as possible * Minimize shipping costs * Minimize refurbishment/repair costs * Minimize hand-offs between organizations, facilities, systems, etc. in order to reduce costs and overall cycle time CSC has developed a proven methodology for helping take this step. In Exhibit 6, we see the characteristics and capabilities a firm demonstrates, as it moves up the familiar supply chain maturity model.Beneath each level of the model, we see industry examples showing what a company can achieve as it makes its progress to higher levels of achievement. CSC has been very successful using this calibration matrix to help a firm position its reverse logistics activities against what can be achieved. Exhibit 6 – Maturity Grid – Reverse Logistics Concluding Case Study Example A concluding case study will help demonstrate the kind of hidden values we’ve been considering. The firm is a major provider of logistics services to the wireless communications industry, serving network operators, agents, resellers, dealers, and retailers, located in North America, South America and Asia. Sales are in excess of $2 billion. The business problem was typical of the industry.Strong competition and low margins were prevalent factors on traditional forward logistics services. The firm needed to improve its business customer and end customer service levels. There were increasing business customer demands for more timely and useful data. Existing processes were fragmented, inconsistent and error prone. It was a very labor and paper intensive situation. The company did have a vision: Focus on diversification into higher margin p roduct and service lines. Position the firm to provide more value added customer services with higher profit margins – especially around reverse logistics including end customer support, advanced exchange programs, asset recovery, warranty and repair services.The solution that emerged included some very typical steps in a reverse logistics situation. The firm assessed its existing application architecture and technical infrastructure along with the high level business requirements needed to achieve its vision. A packaged application was recommended to address gaps in reverse logistics capability and leverage existing IT infrastructure. The firm reviewed its existing operations and business processes and introduced industry best practice concepts for reverse logistics. Business process improvement workshops were conducted, which were used to highlight opportunities for standardization and guide new application software configuration, enhancement and implementation.Finally, the firm performed custom enhancements as needed and implemented new software to enable enhanced reverse logistics capability. The results were impressive: * Re-designed business processes, new reverse logistics application capability and outsourcing of non-core functions allowed them to expand and improve level of service to customers, increase sales revenue stream by adding new customers, and increase overall profit margins * The new reverse logistics solution enabled the following typical improvements for their business customers (before versus after): –  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Reconcile warranty credit – from 30+ days   to