INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS FINANCE Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS FINANCE - Essay Example A well reputed business will attract a vast pool of franchisees in the foreign land as brand recognition is one of the key advantages that every franchisee is keen to get from a franchise contract. Through franchising an organization can avoid many of the start up problems that it can face in a new country. By having a local person as a franchisee in order to sell its products the organization will be able to gain trust of the people of the new country and it will not feel alienated in a foreign land. Moreover the franchisee may guide the organization to gain recognition in its new market by applying specifically those marketing techniques that correspond to the taste of the general public. Additionally the organization will have a promising return in shape of royalty fees. But franchising also entails some drawbacks as an overseas expansion strategy. Firstly, the organization will face cultural barriers especially the language barrier (if the language of the home country and foreign country are different) while finding a suitable franchisee and then initiating its operations in a new territory. Secondly, the organization personals have to visit the foreign country, and most probably stay there for some time, in order to acquaint themselves with the ground realities and assist the initiation of operations. Thirdly, heavy capital investment will be needed in order to install machineries in new place. Lastly, the organization has to constantly inspect the franchisee operations in order to ensure quality consistency which is the essential characteristic of any franchise. 2. Licensing: licensing can be comparatively a safe mode of expanding overseas in which an organization (the licensor) permits the company (the licensee) in a target market to use its property which is usually intangible e.g. patents, trademarks and production techniques (Quick MBA n.d.). Licensing reduces risk as the licensor produces and markets the product while licensor receives the license fe e. Moreover licensor can get a higher ROI because of its minimum investment. Furthermore licensing is an effective tool to avoid the trade barriers and helps the organization to develop its brand name by familiarizing itself in the foreign country through licensing. But licensing is not without its drawbacks. The licensor does not get mega brand recognition in the new territory because it is not producing the producing but merely extending its name/label to the product. Even more there is a potential danger of knowledge spillovers and licensee may become a competitor in future once the license time period is over. 3. Joint Venture: joint ventures can be defined as "an enterprise in which two or more investors share ownership and control over property rights and operation" (Market Entry Strategies n.d.).While joint venture facilitates the sharing of technology and work load it also ensures financial strength. Joint venture entails medium level of control as both the organizations in it work at the same level and there is no one boss who can dictate the working of joint venture rather it is more about mutual cooperation. It is a very suitable way of entering in a foreign market when the organization wants to create a synergy by combining two teams that have distinct skills and when combined together can produce outstanding results. Joint venture can prove to be an inappropriate way of entering in a new market when the partners in a joint venture can be potential competitors and have same line of products. In these cases join venture

Personal development Statement Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

Development - Personal Statement Example With a good GPA scored during the Bachelor’s course and work experience gained as the marketing advisor, I managed to enroll myself at University of New Brunswick. My tenure at this University has been one of tremendous learning, and this has contributed towards personal development along with high prospects in the professional career. I came to the university with an open mind with no assumptions and no expectations. I would first like to present what I learned through the academic courses and then move on to the other teachings that an MBA course offers. The environment itself has much to teach, and learning during the MBA stretches far beyond the academic module. However, one has to be open to learning, observing, perceiving and absorbing. Benefits through academic learning The academic course was divided into three modules and the first module comprised of accounting, marketing, statistics and research, and effective communication. I dreaded accounting as I had not fared w ell during the pre-MBA phase. However, to overcome the fear and to understand the accounting concept, I took up the two-week quant camp which definitely did a lot to develop interest in accounting. After that there was no looking back, and I pursued the subject seriously, making sure I solved problems after each class. This one of my biggest achievements in this course – I understood and overcame the fear of accounting. I am glad I did so because the basics of accounting are essential to run your own business. Marketing had been my domain and interest before I started this course. This course was very interesting and at the same time it helped me develop professional skills on how to actually market products or services. The course stretched into marketing for profit- and non-profit organizations. What I specifically enjoyed was the analytics that provide insight into marketing efforts and help the marketers further amend their strategy. Statistics and research, while essenti al for business, was a little difficult for me. I guess it is enough to understand its value and the basics, so that we can extract information when necessary. Not everyone can be an expert in every field, so I decided not to spend too much energy in a subject which I would not be keen to pursue later as a career. However, I did learn to use excel, which is very important in analytics. Analytics help in marketing decisions and statistics help to decide on the target audience. As a marketer, communication has always been my strength but this course taught me the finer techniques in communication. Business communication becomes essential for every professional, both in oral and written format. Communication is also essential in dealing with colleagues and subordinates. Thus, even though many may consider this as a natural or innate talent, I feel the course does provide a guideline on communication at different levels. The second module was even more interesting as it taught us how to apply the theories and technical knowledge in business. Management skills development is an essential trait because one needs to develop the competencies to manage and lead an organization. This course also taught us the difference between a manager and a leader. I never knew the difference between the two, before the course. The different leadership traits and qualifications essential in different circumstances was an interesting learning. Another major learning for me

Individual Responsibility Essay Example for Free

Individual Responsibility Essay So this is the deal: society today frowns on giving the individual responsibility. We are governed by a set of rules that limits the ability of any individual to make a choice, because we believe that the individual will make the wrong choice, for either himself, others, or both. For example, take traffic rules. Rules such as stopping at stop signs and not running red lights should be entirely optional. A cop should not have jurisdiction or the responsibility to enforce such rules; they should merely be considered as social recommendations. You are recommended to stop here, but you may proceed without stopping at your own risk. Sitting at a red light when no traffic is coming makes one feel like a fool and a cog. Why do we sit there, comfortable in our upholstered seats, staring at a red light waiting for the green when we can obviously see that there is no cross-traffic and that it is safe to cross? Because we are scared that we will get a ticket. Why are we scared that we will get a ticket? Because we are scared of what others may think when they find out that we got a ticket for running a red light. Because we will be ostracized by our peers, and considered an unsafe driver. Because we are scared that it will go on the infamous, anonymous record and that we will be scarred for life as if with a scarlet letter. Why do we respect the record? Why do we place such value in not even making a single mistake if we can help it? Because society values its existence as a whole over the existence of individuals. Individuals are valued only so far as how they can contribute to the creation and maintenance of a society, and beyond that, all their individual needs must be satisfied on their own. We choose to restrict the choices that individuals can make because we dont believe that they will make the right choice, whatever that may be. As a result, we feel demeaned and stupid, sitting at a red light at 2am, waiting to cross as the city sleeps. In New York they apparently run red lights en masse, even in the presence of cops, but Ive never experienced this directly so I dont know for sure. In any case, it is time for individuals to take responsibility for their own actions, and for society to risk losing a few more individuals for the sake of maintaining individual identity. And without individual identity, the individual will no longer wish to be a part of a society that treats him like a suckling child. How can you expect to have any self-respect if you work everyday in a job where you dont make decisions, but decisions are made for you by a few words in a manual? Where people value not what you believe and say, but what happens to be written? I guess talk is cheap, but whos to say that writing isnt? When employers watch their employees with video cameras, when employers cannot even trust their employees to not steal from a cash register that they are operating, something must be wrong. Either the employee isnt getting paid enough to work, or the job shouldnt exist in the first place. By not showing trust, youre only asking for an even more disgruntled worker to rob you. And look at the options that an individual has in society today. You have two basic options. Option One: Spend your life in school educating yourself for a job that you dont really want to buy the stuff you dont really need to pass the time until you retire to pass the time until you die. Uh-huh. Tell that to a kid when theyre growing up, and theyll call you crazy. And we think the people who opt-out, such as homeless people, constitute societys insane. But wait, there is hope. Option Two: Understanding this sad fate, you instead sue a large corporation, such as McDonalds, for causing your child to be fat or for causing your own heart disease. You threaten to file a class-action lawsuit that will rival the Big Tobacco suit, costing McDonalds billions of dollars if you win or millions in lawyer fees if you dont. But you also give them the option to settle quietly out of court for an undisclosed sum worth several million. Being a financially-focused business, McDonalds will of course choose to settle. In effect, by threatening to sue and destroy McDonalds reputation, you have earned yourself a living that, if well-managed, could last you a lifetime. And you feel little guilt because McDonalds is not your neighbor whom you see everyday but some faceless corporation consisting of thousands of employees that would rather work elsewhere. Even though what youve done amounts to extortion, blackmail. And McDonalds has chosen business over ethics, without missing a beat. If youre smart, you choose option two. If youre ethical, you choose option one. If youre smart and ethical, you choose a third option, yet to be conceived. But right now, option two seems like the definite way to go. In fact, society recommends it, because of course your childs obesity or your heart disease could not have been in any way under your control as your responsibility, because you, the consumer, are not to be trusted with something as important as RESPONSIBILITY. Who knows, you just might hurt someone. And thus, we have a cycle of lack of responsibility that is self-perpetuating. Society doesnt think we can take care of ourselves, we begin to believe this, and then we act on it to benefit ourselves. Because we really can take care of ourselves, no matter what restrictions society places on us. Our most recent outlet has been litigation; in fact, if you want to get a safe job today, become a lawyer. Just dont expect to succeed if you actually have morals and care about the cases you fight. Just be a shrewd businessman. And dont feel bad when you do the wrong thing, knowing full well that the right thing is going to cost you. After all, you can work for the plaintiff for free; just be sure to ask for a 30% cut of whatever McDonalds gives them. Why do we make a society where doing the right thing is expensive? Who designed this damn thing anyway? Its design by committee, and hence the design sucks

The role of religion in society | Reflective piece

The role of religion in society | Reflective piece Growing up in a strong Christian household, my parents always emphasized the importance of helping others. My father was a Methodist Minister at three local churches and encouraged my family to take part in the community. He was very active in the Urban Missions Christian Care Center located in Watertown N.Y, participated in Bridge meetings (an alternative to incarceration program), and was also the founder of the Watertown N.Y based Wheels to Work Program. I remember as a young child having my dad come home with the look of pure joy on his face when he gave his first car away to a single mom. I was so amazed how he could literally transform the lives of individuals through his ministry and participation in the community. One of my fondest memories as a child was going to the Urban Mission with my dad on the weekends and just following him around. The Urban Mission offers many great services to individuals in need such as a food pantry, thrift store, critical needs assistance, housin g assistance, and the Christian Care Center, which provides a place of caring and acceptance. It was always wonderful seeing the joy on the recipients faces after receiving such services. My dad definitely set the foundation for my interest in the social work profession. Up until my dad died in 2005, I would often volunteer my time at picnics that my dad hosted for families in need, primarily those with little or no income who were regular visitors at the Christian Care Center. I enjoyed preparing food for the picnics because I knew how much these individuals looked forward to a cooked meal. During the picnic, I loved socializing with teens my age. At first I was uncomfortable because I did not know what to expect from someone whose lifestyle differed so much from mine. But soon I determined that these individuals were not that different from myself. Yes, they were less fortunate than I, some were even homeless, but these girls still had the same aspirations and goals as I did, still enjoyed the same activities, and still needed someone they could relate with. I realized how much of a difference I was making just by looking past our differences and embracing our similarities. From that point I recognized the true importance of treating others with di gnity, regardless of their lifestyle. Eventually, I realized that I, like my dad, had developed a genuine passion for helping others. Upon entering 12th grade, I knew that I wanted to enter the human services profession. I originally wanted to become a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, so I did my undergraduate work in psychology. But I soon realized that the MSW degree was a more effective degree for my career choice. My ultimate goal is to become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a concentration in Mental Health, and open a private practice. Currently, treatment by LMHCs is not covered by insurance. Therefore, becoming a LCSW is the better option for me because in regards to treatment, I will be able to bill insurance, which will make my services more affordable. In addition, opening a private practice will allow me to be financially flexible with those who do not have insurance. It is extremely important to me to help those with low income and give them the option to take advantage of such services. Inadequate resources is a huge social problem faced by many, primarily those with low income. I feel as though everyone has the potential to improve their overall well-being if the proper resources are available. However, all too often, certain resources such as counseling are not available financially to those with low income. Without these resources, many individuals may not have the chance to reach their highest potential and become productive members of society. That is why I have a passion to enter the Social Work field, and provide beneficial services to those even in the low income population. Another major social problem is that there is a strong stigma attached to mental illness. Many believe that having a mental disorder such as depression is attached to personal weakness. As a result, those suffering from mental illness are sometimes reluctant to seek out treatment. I strongly affirm that it is important for society not to label individuals with mental illness. I personally encourage others not to define people as their illness but to see their illness as just a part of who they are. Thankfully, religious institutions have a role in society in promoting social and economic justice, by providing behavioral guidelines and offering moral support. The Methodist churches that I have been a part of growing up were non-judgmental and worked to provide social equality. As a teen, I was able to experience the diverse community of the congregation at my church. The organist of the church was gay but the congregation did not discriminate against him. Not all churches accept homosexuality, but my dad lived by the rule that you should treat others how you want to be treated. He emphasized the fact that you do not have to support their lifestyle, but you still need to treat them with dignity and respect. He was very accepting, and encouraged our family to be the same way. He always enforced living by the Ten Commandments, which gave our family a solid Judeo-Christian foundation. My dad definitely had an extraordinary influence on how I live my life today. Religion was and stil l is an important aspect of my family, and these values have continued with me throughout my adult life. I strongly believe that my solid family and religious foundation has enabled me to acquire characteristics, which will help me succeed in the Social Work field. One characteristic I am blessed with is empathy. I am able to understand others emotions and feelings and convey my understanding of how they are feeling. My parents always said when I was younger, à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“How would you feel if you were in his/her shoes?à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚  I often think of that statement, and I do put myself in others shoes and I am able to understand what others are feeling. In regards to counseling, I believe empathy is an important characteristic because it allows the client to feel heard and understood. Empathy will help me as a counselor to connect with my clients. I also believe that I have exceptional communication skills. One strong component of communication that I often demonstrate is active listening. I believe this will be beneficial in a counseling setting because it will allow me to interpre t what the client is saying and as a result will enable me to deliver a beneficial response. Most importantly, active listening is important in the counseling setting because it will enable the client to develop trust and respect for me as their counselor. Aside from my strengths, I also have areas in which I need to grow and change. One weakness of mine is that I often find it difficult to establish boundaries. I believe that being able to set up boundaries in the Social Work profession, especially counseling is critical. My main problem is not being able to say no to individuals. I feel as though if I say no to people, they will be disappointed and I therefore, will experience a strong sense of guilt. However, with the direct practice offered at Roberts Wesleyan College, I believe I can transform my weaknesses and learn effective ways of setting up boundaries. I believe that the ability to set boundaries relies on self-confidence. At Roberts Wesleyan College, I know I will be able to develop a stronger sense of self-confidence through the compassionate and supportive environment. Based on the Christian context offered at Roberts, I trust that my weaknesses will be accepted and my strengths will be recognized which will ultimately lea d to my growth and development. Overall, Im convinced that the MSW program offered at Roberts Wesleyan College is the best program for me. I believe aside from my determination, my current GPA reflects my ability to succeed. My grades have placed me on the Presidents list for the last two semesters here at Potsdam. I know that graduate level work will be challenging, but with my motivation and determination I have faith that I can succeed. I am determined to get accepted into the best MSW program, which I believe is offered at Roberts Wesleyan College. Education and religion have always been important to my family and I. I know that my dad would truly be proud to have a daughter attending Roberts Wesleyan College, which offers a solid education foundation along with a Christian context. I know this is the best college for me and will ultimately allow me to achieve to my fullest potential and improve my overall well-being.

Dale :: essays research papers

Earnhardt dies following Daytona 500 accident DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. -- Seven-time NASCAR Winston Cup champion Dale Earnhardt, 49, was fatally injured Sunday in a multi-car accident on the final lap of the 43rd Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway. "NASCAR has lost its greatest driver," said NASCAR Chairman of the Board Bill France, who himself is recovering from life threatening illnesses, "and I personally have lost a great friend." His wife Teresa was at his side at the time of death. Dr. Steve Bohannon, emergency trauma surgeon who was on one of the ambulances that responded, said, "My speculation would be head injuries, basically to the base of the skull." Earnhardt, who won the 1998 Daytona 500, was unconscious when he was cut from his No. 3 Richard Childress Racing Chevrolet after the accident between Turns 3 and 4 of the 2.5-mile speedway as a tangled pack of cars raced to the checkered flag. He was immediately transported to Halifax, less than one-mile from the speedway. "I don’t know what to say. This is incredible, just incredible. I think everybody is just in shock right now. "I didn’t see much of what happened up there (in the fourth turn). After the race was over, I heard things didn’t look very good but, man, Earnhardt. You figure he’ll bounce right back," said Jeremy Mayfield, driver of the No. 12 Penske Ford. Your first thought is, hey, he’ll probably come back next week at Rockingham and beat us all. "My heart goes out to Theresa and Dale, Jr., Kerry and Kelly, and to Taylor Nicole." Earnhardt was pronounced dead while his driver, Michael Waltrip, was being interviewed in the Daytona press box after his first career victory in 463 starts. In the accident, Ken Schrader's No. 36 Pontiac was pinned against the outside wall by Earnhardt's out-of-control No. 3 Richard Childress Racing Chevrolet, which came from a lower lane on the 31-degree banked turn. "I don't know what happened -- all of a sudden we were all crashing," said Schrader, who was unhurt in the accident. "I guess someone got into Dale because Dale got into me and then we went up. We hit pretty hard and Dale hit harder." Schrader tried to visit Earnhardt's car after the accident ended, but quickly left the area. I didn't get to talk to Dale," Schrader said of his escape. "I went over there and then they (safety workers) got there real quick, so I got the hell out of the way.

Marketing Mix Analysis of iPad Essay

Executive Summary Managing and developing marketing mix appropriately is extremely important to firm’s marketing and success. In order to marketing product successfully, the right product must be exhibited to right people at the right place, right price and right time. If a firm can manage the marketing mix successfully, as a result, it can be a source of competitive advantage for firms. Each element of the marketing mix should be analyzed and if necessary, adapted to ensure that the right balance is achieved to give the product or service the very best chance of success in the market place. Apple is a successful company and its previous product iPod has a high market share in the global market due to its brand perception and image as s high quality innovative brand. In 2010, Apple launched an innovative product – â€Å"iPad† in US, which is a tablet computer with touch screen. Even in the first launching date iPad had been sold 0.3 million units. The product no doubt is getting support of Apple’s brand image and it has changed the way to consumer lifestyle. That is why iPad is thought as a revolutionary who will arouse a wave to electronic industry. Apple’s iPad delivered the value to the customer via marketing mix tools called the 4Ps: * Product looks good and works well. * Right price. * Right place at the right time. * Successful promotion helps to a larger output. Apple followed this by innovation and introducing new products in the market to satisfy consumer’s needs and wants. The current author here will use the theories, concepts of marketing mix to analysis the iPad. The remainder of this essay is structured into five parts. It begins by defining marketing mix and its evolution. Second, it analyse the company, iPad, its competitor and consumer. Third, it illuminates the marketing mix by analysing iPad. Finally it ends with the overall assessment and conclusion. Contents 1.Introduction and Definition3 1.1Definition of Marketing3 1.2Definition of Customer Value and Value Proposition3 1.3Definition of Marketing Mix4 2.Description of Apple & iPad4 2.1Brief Introduction of Apple4 2.2Introduction of iPad5 2.3Brief Consumer Profile6 2.4Brief Competitor Profile7 3.Marketing Mix Analysis of iPad7 3.1Product7 3.2Price10 3.3Place12 3.4Promotion14 4.Assessment of Overall Value Delivered16 5.Conclusion16 6.References18 1. Introduction and Definition 2.1 Definition of Marketing â€Å"Marketing is the process by which individuals and groups obtain what they need and want through creating and exchanging products and value with others and forging relationships with customers.† (Philip Kotler, Gary Armstrong, 2009). This definition recognizes the importance of creating a long term relationship with customers and identifies the importance of satisfying customer wants. 2.2 Definition of Customer Value and Value Proposition Customer value is the difference between the values that the customer gains from owning and using a product and the costs of obtaining the product. Put it simply, customer value is created when the perceptions of benefits received from a transaction exceed the costs of ownership. The same idea can be expressed as a ratio (Chiristopher, 1996): Customer value = Perceptions of benefits The definition of customer value proposition is a well defined and persuasive marketing statement related to a specific product or service that details the reasons why a consumer would benefit from purchasing it. A value proposition is the definition of a firm’s promise to create and deliver customer value (Chapelet and Tovstiga, 1998). Fig 1.2.1 A model of value creation and the marketing process source: Adapted from Kotler Brown Burton Deans Armstrong, (2010), â€Å"Marketing† 8th Edition Figure 1.2.1 shows a typical model of value creation and the marketing process. Put it simple, marketing is a process cycle which consists of 5 simple steps as below: i. Customer buys or potential customer is contacted to understand the marketplace. ii. Finding out how the customer liked the product or what is needed. iii. Analysing these data and creating a plan that includes goals, strategy and its marketing mix. iv. Implement the plan that delivers value to customer which results in the customer’s buying the product and creating customer delight. v. Repeating the cycle starting with step (i) to step (iv) to make a better product sold with a better plan and continuously keeping this cycle going. Hence, create profits and customer equity. 2.3 Definition of Marketing Mix The concept of the Marketing Mix was first created by Neil H. Borden in his article called â€Å"The concept of the Marketing Mix† in 1964. In his article he explained the importance of a market to try to â€Å"mix ingredients† in their process in the market in order to be successful. E. Jerome McCarthy later grouped these ingredients into the four categories that are known as the 4P’s of marketing (Product, Price, Place and Promotion). Product — What does the customer want from the product/service? Price — What is the value of the product or service to the buyer? Place — Where do buyers look for the product or service? Promotion — Where and when can get across the marketing messages to target market? 2. Description of Apple & iPad 3.4 Brief Introduction of Apple Apple Inc., founded in 1976, is an American multinational corporation which is best-known for its hardware and software products. The hardware products are: Macintosh, iPod, iPhone and iPad. One example of the famous software of Apple is iTunes, a proprietary media player application that works with iTunes store and allows customers to download music and offers other features of consumer electronics. Fortune magazine named Apple as the most admired company in the US in 2008, and in the world from 2008 to 2012. 3.5 Introduction of iPad On January 27, 2010, Apple introduced the much-anticipated media tablet, the iPad (As shown in Fig2.2.1). Fig 2.2.1 Introduction of iPad (source: www.apple.com) The iPad measure 9.7 inch wide screen display with multi touch screen with 1024 x 768 resolutions which is lighter and thinner than any other notebooks or laptops. Its internal 25 watt-hour battery can run up to 10 hours of video, 140 hours of audio playback and one month on standby as Apple claims. Steve Jobs stated that, with the introduction of the iPad, Apple had opened a market for a new class of mobile devices. (As shown in Fig 2.2.2) Fig2.2.2 Apple iPad First Hands-on (source: http://www.ipadforums.net) 3.6 Brief Consumer Profile Consumer market can be defined as â€Å"all the individuals and households who buy or acquire goods and services for personal consumption† and consumer buying behavior can be defined as â€Å"the buying behavior of final consumers, individuals and households who buy goods and services for personal consumption† (Kotler, 2009). Table 2.3.1 shows the analysis of market segmentation for iPad. SEGMENTATION BASE| SELECTEDSEGMENTATION VARIABLES| Geographic Segmentation| Region| West Malaysia, east Malaysia| City size| Major metropolitan areas, cities| Density of area| Urban| Climate| Hot, humid, rainy| Demographic Segmentation| Age| 18-34, 35-49, 50-64| Sex| Male, female| Married status| Single, married, divorced, living together| Income| RM40,000 and over| Education| College, college graduate, postgraduate| Occupation| Professional, white-collar| Psychological| Needs| Sense of self-worth, fashionable| Personality| Extroverts, novelty-seeker, aggressives| Perception| Low-risk| Learning-involvement| High-involvement| Attitudes| Possitive attitude| Psychographic| Lifestyle| Couch-potatoes, outdoor enthusiasts, status-seekers| Cultures| Malay, Chinese, Indian, and other foreigners| Religion| Muslim, buddhism, hinduism, christian, catholic, and others| Social| Middle, upper| Family| Bachelors, young married, full nesters, empty nesters| Use-Rated Segmentation| Usage rate| Heavy users, medium users| Awareness status| Aware, interested, enthusiastic| Brand loyalty| Strong| Use-Situation Segmentation| Time| Leisure, work, morning, night| Objective| Personal, fun, achievement| Location| Home, work, mega mall, restaurant| Person| Self, family members, friends, peers| Benefit Segmentation| Convenience, social acceptance, easy e-book reading, value-for-the-money, service| Table 2.3.1 Market segmentation for iPad From analysis above can see that most of Apple’s users are high-end clients who have the strong purchasing power, easily accept new technology and they are very loyal to Apple. 3.7 Brief Competitor Profile Apple iPad bring threats and impact to PC industry in some way. On one hand, the hot-sell of iPad attracts many PC manufacturers set foot in this field. So the other tablet computers will be the biggest competitor, such as Blackberry’s playbook, this is a tablet computer which located in business person, and it will also attract public’s eyes because of its vast multimedia function. On the other hand, the price advantage of netbook is also a challenge to iPad. After all compared with traditional computer, iPad may not a necessity. To some business and professional people, they will choose the traditional notebook rather than iPad. 3. Marketing Mix Analysis of iPad According to the information that searches from magazines and internet, the author knows many information of iPad. The author here will use the theories, concepts of marketing mix to analysis the iPad. 4.8 Product â€Å"Product means the goods-and-services combination the company offers to the target market. â€Å" (Philip Kotler, Gary Armstrong, 2009). The iPad bridges the gap between smart phone and laptop, it offers equivalent range of features and functions that a computer does. It has internet capabilities running on both Wi-Fi and 3G. Some of the features are discussed previously. Fig 3.1.1 shows its tech specs. Access to Apple Apps Store which has over 300,000 applications and to iTunes are attractive features of iPad. Fig 3.1.1 Tech Specs for Apple iPad (source: http://www.apple.com) Value delivered to customer: 1) Convenient to Carry and Easy to Use Compared to functionalities and performance, it is surprised that iPad weighs only 1.5 pounds. It is very thin and sleek measuring only 0.5 inches. This lightweight iPad is very useful for business trip, making it easy to transport as compared to a laptop. Not only it is easier to carry it around, but also be able to use it to check e-mails, show videos and photos to people instantly whenever required with its long battery life, which at 10 hours is 2-5 times longer than a notebook (As shown in Fig 3.1.2). Fig 3.1.2 E-mail and photo function for iPad (source: http://www.cnbeta.com) 2) Easy for E-Book Reading One benefit that can’t miss is the iBooks Application. Customer can download the favorite e-books to iPad and read while traveling (As shown in Fig 3.1.3). Fig 3.1.3 E-books on Apple iPad (source: http://www.telegraph.co.uk) Retrieving books to read on ibooks application on iPad is simply easy. Browse through the e-bookshelf on the iPad, choose one title wish to read and click, the book opens in front. Customer can view the book in portrait or landscape, and the way the pages flip is awesome – flip it with finger and looks just like a real book. 3) Excellent Service for Customer What’s more, the service of iPad is very nice. Apple has its own key service – iTunes. Customer can get this value to enjoy the all kinds of internet resources such as music, video and applications (As shown in Fig 3.1.4). Fig 3.1.4 iTunes on Apple iPad (source: http://www.ipadforums.net guardian.co.uk guardia guardia) The iTunes online store makes it incredibly easy to purchase songs and load them onto the devices. When customer wants to watch or listen, they neither need to search from the CDs nor television channels. What they need to do is just opening the iTunes, all they want is in iTunes, it let the media browse much faster, it is easier to sort. 4.9 Price â€Å"Price is the amount of money customers have to pay to obtain the product. â€Å" (Philip Kotler, Gary Armstrong, 2009). The iPad is priced starting from $499 for 16 GB storage to $829 for 64GB storage and 3G connectivity. In detail, tab 3.2.1 shows the price of iPad selling in Malaysia. iPad| 16G| 32G| 64G| Wi-Fi| RM 1, 549.00| RM 1, 849.00| RM 2, 149.00| Wi-Fi + 3G| RM 1, 999.00| RM 2, 299.00| RM 2, 599.00| Tab 3.2.1 Selling price of iPad (source: http://www.apple.com guardian.co.uk guardia guardia) Value delivered to customer: 1) Eco-friendly Device for Environment Protection The iPad is made of recyclable glass and Aluminum and the packaging material is recyclable & the packing is efficiently done. It is not using Arsenic, PVC, bromine fire, Mercury as the company has restricted the use of harmful chemicals. With such price, customers are not buying the fashionable device only, more importantly, they are making contribution to environment protection. Fig 3.2.1 shows how green is the iPad. Fig3.2.1 How green is the iPad (source: http://sortable.com) 2) Flexible Price as Actual Needs The iPad price varies according to its storage capacity and the internet access capacity, which leads to reducing the initial cost on the first ever tablets based on customer’s actually needs and application (As shown in Fig3.2.2). Fig3.2.2 Price and configuration of the iPad (source: http://www.apple.com) 3) Cost Saving with Maxis Bundled Package It is available on Maxis bundled packages with a 24-month contract based on different types of iPad internet plan (As shown in Fig 3.2.3). By doing so, the price of iPad has been dropped down from RM450 to RM950. The plan is much more attractive not only for those who can’t afford to pay for the high price, but also for some of the SME to extend their business. Fig 3.2.3 Maxis iPad Bundled Packages (source: http://www.maxis.com.my) 4.10 Place â€Å"Place includes company activities that make the product available to target consumers. â€Å" (Philip Kotler, Gary Armstrong, 2009). Apple started selling the iPad not only from its official websites, but also retail outlets and Apple Store. Value delivered to customer 1) Easy Walk-in Location for Purchase The iPad can be purchased from Apple Store, Apple Premium Reseller and Apple Authorized Reseller located in Malaysia. All shops are conveniently located and beautifully designed, identified by the large backlit Apple logo, such as in most famous shopping mall like Sunway Primary, One Utama, KLCC and Mid Valley in Selangor, even in Melaka, Penang, Sabah and Sarawak. The value is so easy for customer to come and have a journey on iPad (As shown in Fig 3.3.1). Fig 3.3.1 Apple shops in Malaysia In each shop, customer will be able to find dedicated Apple-trained and Apple-certified Mac experts who can come up with the right solution for you. 2) Time-Saving Online Order Apple iPad are also available on internet for the customers on Apple’s website. Online purchase is the easiest and time saving way for most of them (As shown in Fig 3.3.2). Fig3.3.2 Online Apple store for iPad (source: http://www.apple.com) On the website, the Apple explains the number of features and benefits of iPad. This adds the value to the consumers as convenience is a value that people appreciate and for which they will pay more than the actual price. 3) Golden Service for Apple Loyalty When customer are on the go, the Apple Store app is the best way to research, personalize and buy products from Apple and get the most out of customer’s visits to the Apple Retail Store for Apple loyal fans. Fig 3.3.3 shows what can do with the Apple Store app on the iPhone or iPod touch from search to pay. Fig3.3.3 Apple store apps for iPhone and iPod Touch (source: http://www.apple.com) 4.11 Promotion â€Å"Promotion means activities that communicate the merits of the product and persuade target customers to buy it. â€Å" (Philip Kotler, Gary Armstrong, 2009) Apple Company had been promoting the iPad with the help of social media campaigns and multi-channel media strategy. Value delivered to customer: 1) Multiple Channel for Better Understanding of iPad The online promotion by Apple on Facebook, YouTube and other related websites approaches to the consumers added more value to the decision of consumers of buying iPad. Same like in stores all the information is available online for customers. Customers can download brochure from its website for their convenience. When Apple announced the idea of iPad, most fans write blogs and share through internet. Customer will see them and many videos about iPad, some of them are made by Apple and some are made by other people. These blogs and videos are shared by many other people through many ways (As shown in Fig 3.4.1). Fig3.4.1 Video sharing about iPad (source: http://www.9to5iPad.com/) 2) Custom Engraving of iPad Apple had offered free iPad engraving from its online store, allowing customers to add a personal touch to the tablet in time for the holiday seasons (As shown in Fig 3.4.2). Customers are given the option to engrave up to 2 lines of free text on the back of an iPad after selecting an iPad model and any desired accessories from the online store. Fig 3.4.2 Website about iPad engraving (Source: http://store.apple.com/) 3) Free Delivery for On-line Purchase When purchasing the iPad online from Apple’s official website, customer will get the value of free delivery. Just wait for 3-4 business days, the product will be arrived on hand safely. 4. Assessment of Overall Value Delivered Apple has always placed a major emphasis on the marketing and the brand awareness of its products. The iPad’s advantage is that they offer several different features in one product. Converging all the new technology into one product is the route apple is seeking. It’s making life easier for their consumers by being able to conduct many applications in the one product. Apple’s iPad followed all the 4P’s of marketing mix to deliver the high level of value to the customers. The company has manufactured an iPad using strong in-built applications. The gadget permits people to work and entertain anytime anywhere, as a value of experiencing its easy and convenient use. It provides value to customers through a huge number of features which helps in saving time and energy. Adding more to customer value the price of iPad is competitive and flexible in the market as discussed above. It advertised on T.V., newspapers, magazine, radios and also on internet, which makes people have clearer understanding in various channel. It provides value by available at all the apple stores and website. From the iPad’s 4P’s analysis, we can easily see the difference of it, and can answer the question â€Å"why people buy it which seems unnecessary product.† Apple iPad satisfy their needs and this delivers the value as a product and service in terms of features, style performance, durability, quality, reliability and design to the customer. 5. Conclusion Apple iPad is a new product which has made a dent in the history of tablet business domain and the first successful product. This has also ignited the demand for new and improved tablets from Apple and other competitors. Apple has used the 4P’s of marketing in a very efficient and proper manner, so that added the value to the customer’s decisions of purchasing iPad. When Apple introduced iPad, they intended to come across the consumer’s wants and demands which would satisfy to their lifestyles. Apple in future which demands more innovative products and the company still need to adapt to expected changes in iPad which they have already started in their new iPad 2. With their experience, they are able to continue strengthen its position in the industry. 6. References 1. Philip Kotler, Gary Armstrong. (2009). Principles of Marketing. (7th Edition). Australia. Pearson. 2. Kotler Brown Burton Deans Armstrong. (2010). Marketing (8th Edition). Australia. Pearson. 3. Borden, N. H. (1964). â€Å"The concept of the Marketing Mix†. Journal of Advertising Research. Vol II 4. APDGT YAMAMOTO. â€Å"Understanding Customer Value Concept: Key To Success†. pp. 547-552. 5. Chapelet, B. and Tovstiga, G. (1998), â€Å"Development of a research methodology for accessing a firm’s business process-related technologies†, International Journal of Technology Management, Vol. 15 Nos  ½, pp. 10-30. 6. Apple Annual Reports, 2010 7. www.apple.com 8. www.maxis.com.my

Lucky Jim Analysis

The conversation between Dixon and Bertrand is direct and to the point with the use of emotive and, at times, offensive language. For instance, Bertrand uses phrases like your so called mind' and you dirty little bar- fly, you nasty little Jumped up turf'. In between the speech Amiss is a great observer of human movement and highlights the tension between the two men with the language he uses and the use of short sentences, for example ‘Axon moved a pace nearer' and ‘he clenched his fists' and the Impact had hurt them rather'.Malls describes Bertrand breath as Whistling through his nose' which accurately depicts he image of someone beginning to get irate. Throughout the passage, out of the two men, Dixon is depicted as more in control and powerful than Bertrand even though being the lesser build of the two men. Bertrand says to Dixon you're simply not up to my weight. If you want a fight pick someone your own size, then you might stand a chance. ‘ Dixon, by his resp onse, is clearly not threatened by this at all.It could be seen as an empty threat because Bertrand does not expect Dixon to retaliate, but rather simply Just to back down considering their positions. Undeterred by the physical threats, Dixon moves ‘a pace rarer' and unleashes an articulate and fast moving annihilation of Bertrand character; you're a twister and a snob and a bully and a fool'. Bertrand Is shown to be clearly stunned by this as he makes ‘no attempt to interrupt'. Dioxins confidence is clearly rallied by the fact that he is armed with the information that Bertrand has been having an affair with Carol Goldsmith.Bertrand physical strength over Dixon is again highlighted by when it says that ‘he came and stood over Dixon'. Amiss adds slight humor to the passage as Dixon attempts to further wind up Bertrand and SSH him over the edge by saying What are we going to do, dance? , still staying fairly calm himself. Bertrand however triggers the fight that he so desires by calling Dixon ‘Sam'. Even then, Dixon Is shown to be more in control as ‘he took off his glasses and put them In his top Jacket pocket'.Malls again uses humor In his depletion of this rather ungainly scene as the two men ‘faced each other on the floral rug'. Malls' description of the rug as floral creates a contrast with the aggression of the scene and introduces the idea to the reader described as ‘elbows crooked in uncertain attitudes, as if about to begin some ritual f which neither had learnt the cues'. The way the passage is written emphasizes that both men are out of place as one would expect a vocal argument between an artist and a history teacher as opposed to a physical fight.The explosion of the china figurine as it hits the hearth 'emphasizing the silence which fell' highlights the awkwardness of the scene. In contrast to Dixon controlled manner Bertram is made to look clumsy and a character of ridicule in the way he is shown to †˜Jab' at Dixon face, loses his balance and is hit hard by Dixon on the larger and more convoluted of his ears'. The reader is to encouraged by the use of this description to feel any sympathy for Bertrand.His language is not eloquent in the same way that Dixon is, but relies more on taunts and school boy retorts like you've got it coming' and ‘I'll show you'. This threatening and childlike language is very different from Dixon more controlled responses like ‘I'm not the sort to do that' when Bertrand threatens him if he tells Christine about his indiscretions with Carol. Amiss uses repetition at the end of the passage when Dixon thinks about Bertrand as a ‘bloody old dowser-faced boot-faced totem poll' and then repeats this insult out odd.The use of repetition is not only humorous but it emphasizes the point and leaves the reader in no doubt with regard to who the winner of this fight is, both on a physical and intellectual level. It is also quite a breakthrough f or Dixon, almost more so than when he actually punches Bertrand, as it is the first point in the play when he actually says what he is thinking. The knocking on the door is even described as ‘discreetly applauding this terminology. Dixon is again shown to be a character of strength and control by the way he says ‘Come in' with ‘reflex promptness' and appears to be unpleased by the fight.