Air Transportation - Smart Custom Writing Samples

Air Transportation - Smart Custom Writing Gay MarriagesIn the United States, homosexuality and consequently, same-sex marriages, has resulted in a lot of controversy and the trading of accusations and counter-accusations. Conceptually, marriage is defined as a legal and religious long-term commitment between two people of the opposite sex. This stretches further to incorporate rights in financial responsibilities and benefits as assigned to heterosexual couples. However, this traditional view is increasingly facing change and opposition. Several states such as Massachusetts, Connecticut, California, Iowa, the District of Columbia and, New Jersey have already reflected this clamour for change and adopted legislation allowing gay marriages. In these states therefore, homosexual couples have the freedom to decide whether to marry or not in a legally acceptable manner. The gay couples can enjoy mutual couple benefits such as legal spouse representation, medical visitations, pension benefits and inheritance rights accorded to the bereaved. In a few other states such as Rhode Island, Hawaii, Maine, Colorado and Wisconsin have instituted domestic partnership laws whereby gay couples can enjoy limited rights though gay marriages are out rightly outlawed. This has however not influenced the society to radically accept gay couples and end all stigma and discrimination directed unto them. Proponents of the entrenchment of gay rights into the United States Constitution argue that barring homosexual marriages is tantamount to discrimination. The essence of the United States Constitution is to protect and preserve minorities' rights and hence gay advocates feel that the federal government or anyone else should not bar marriage to any minorities. This argument is further supported by the Interracial Marriage Act whereby marriages across races were prohibited in the United States till 1967. Therefore, it is crucial to examine the pros and cons of gay marriages and evaluate them from a basis of whether it is plausible to not only legalise them but also mount awareness campaigns to de-stigmatize them, (Dunlap, 15 march 1995). There are various arguments that have been put forward in support of gay marriages. These range from rights in freedom in the Bill of Rights, inherent rights, societal perspectives and biological claims. First, lobbyists and advocates for gay couples feel that if they are not legalized, this will be tantamount to isolation of their rights to religious freedom. Opponents to this have expressed the fact that all major religions consider homosexual relationships as a sin. However, the First Amendment as entrenched in the American Constitution that every person’s rights and views pertaining to religion or lack thereof be it a minority group or not, must be protected. The marriage institution is a secular and societal activity in contrast to the widely acknowledged view as a solely religious perspective of people’s lives. Therefore, the government cannot base laws on a religious concept. This can be equated as entrenching the mentioning of God’s name in vain as a crim e. Secondly, benefits that accrue to a married couple such as joint property ownership and medical benefits are also accorded to gay couples if their unions are legalized. Vital societal and mutual benefits such as tax reduction, property ownership, insurance benefits and agency laws affect a couple’s decision-making. For instance, if a partner in a gay couple that has lived together for twenty years falls ill, visitation rights to the other partner are denied since they are not recognized by law as the next of kin or spouse. Therefore, critical decisions such as incapacitation are not discussed conclusively by the couple. This, as the advocates pointedly illustrate, is unfair just because these individuals do not fit a state definition. Thirdly, gay couples and various couples not only feel that this is an accepted lifestyle but also cite biological causation. Over time, the widely held conception that homosexuality is a deviant sexual behavior is fading out. History, dating back to the Greece indicates the existence of homosexual relationships and the origin of such terms such as Lesbos for lesbians. Psychological research is underway that has already achieved in showing that same-sex relationships have a biological causation. However, caution should be taken to differentiate this from a genetic causation which has no substantial basis. This is depicted by the fact that in most gay couples, one partner exhibits characteristics of the opposite sex such as softer voices in males and strong cheekbones in females. There would be absolutely no need for an individual to choose to be gay in a world that frowns upon the same. This argument therefore renders support to the implied theory that homosexuality is involuntary, ( Hetter, 3June 1996). Fourthly, denying gay couple the right to a legal marriage is discriminatory. America was founded on the concept of majority rule with the protection of minorities such as the anti-slavery acts and inter-racial marriages. Furthermore, it does not hurt anyone in particular or the society. A marriage is deemed as a personal commitment between two people and should not be dictated upon by society. On to the fifth argument for gay marriages, it is important to note marriages are founded on the basis of love not the mutual benefits accorded by the state on couples. This is a life-time commitment whereby the partners vow to support each other through thick and thin and forsake all others till death. It is noteworthy that legal maneuvers accorded to couples in several states have not served to quest the clamor for legalization and acceptance of marriages. This implies there is more to these marriages than just legal aspects. The sixth argument put forward is that gay marriages will entrench family values whereby couples will give up high-risk sexual behaviors. This is a two-edged approach whereby the opposite can be viewed as the erosion of family virtues. However, marriages encourage people to settle down and give up frivolous lifestyles which expose them to STDs and other risks. When married couples commit to building a life together, they depict a positive desirable behavior that should be encouraged, (Member Resolution and Opinion Poll, 2005 ). Finally, it is important to note that gay couples enjoy the same financial benefits and constraints encountered by heterosexual marriages. Therefore, a homosexual marriage ensures couples support each other especially in the face of the ongoing turbulent economic times. They can easily meet their bills and utilities and live the American dream if these unions are legalized. On the other hand, opponents to this legislation have come up with a myriad number of reasons as to why gay marriages should not be legalized. First and chief among these is the religious aspect. Most religions in the world today consider homosexuality a great sin. Homosexuality is not only deeply opposed by the various religions in the country but it is also deemed offensive. It is seen as limiting the freedom of religion enjoyed by the majority. The fact that the United States Constitution was founded under a religious perspective and highly borrows from the Christian Bible further serves to indicate the citizens’ opposition to homosexuality. Hence, laws prohibiting homosexuality should be upheld,. Secondly, the legalization of gay marriages shall weaken the definition and perspective attached to marriage as per se. With rising cases of divorce, which are projected at 50 percent, the respect accorded to marriages has already been weakened. Gay marriages, if legalized, are expected to increase the number of non-serious marriages viewed as making fun of this serious intuition such as individuals desiring to be tax-exempt. This shall be in utter contrast to the widely felt view that marriage is a sacred institution that should be well-adhered to. Further, this is supported by the fact that only people in the opposite sex can pro-create. Most activists against homosexuality feel that it encourages adoption while ignoring pro-creation, which is viewed as a gift from God. Secondly, the full adoption of marriage into the social setup shall ideally weaken the perspective in which traditional family values are held as the most vital in society. The chief building blocks of every society is the traditional nuclear family setup of man, woman and children. This has been the reason as to why societies have managed to remain rational throughout historical events such as the world wars, the great depression and other similar challenges. Family members have always stuck up close even when friends and lovers forsake thee. Therefore, it is noteworthy that our societies are crumbling due to the increasing change in perception of families and the weakening of their structure. Introducing another perceptive view to the already weakened family view shall definitely worsen the situation. Thirdly, this would trigger a slippery slope in the scope of the legality of marriages. Contrary to the proposition by gay proponents that these marriages would hurt no-one, this would trigger the onset of a chain reaction that would ultimately lead to a radical change in the whole idea of marriage. Abhorrent traits such as incest in which closely relate family members intermarry may come up. There is therefore a need to define the institution of family and marriage firmly, otherwise, the options and variations might prove to be endless. This may sound absurd, but it is vital to note that it does not take the majority to change this but a few activist judges to change these laws by interpreting them under the doctrine of stare decisis so as to impose this on everyone just as was the case in where two judges in California declared the Pledge of Allegiance unconstitutional, (Dunlap, 15 march 1995). Finally, the gay culture, under a psychological analysis and review, should not be encouraged. This is since it leads to psychological disorders, much lower life expectancy which is indicated at less than twenty years in comparison to the general population which can be attributed to the hassles experienced by this couples; and the highly likely transmittance of Sexually Transmitted Diseases as is the case in the studies conducted in Haiti by Centre of Disease Control. There is therefore a need to discourage unhealthy practices that are detrimental to humanity, (Hetter, 3June 1996). In conclusion, it is important to note the controversy on gay marriages and homosexuality is a societal issue that must be resolved. Either the proponents and advocates of homosexuality will attain legislative and mutual recognition over time or the opponents of this change will manage to contain this whirlwind. It is therefore vital to analyze various articles that have appeared in the recent past which act as pointers as to the direction this crucial debate is taking,. References D, W. (August 22, 2008). What's the Harm?: Does Legalizing Same-Sex Marriage Really Harm Individuals, Families or Society? Lanham: University Press of America. Dunlap, D. (15 march 1995). Some States Trying To Stop Gay Marriages Before They Start. wall street journal , 18. Hetter, K. ( 3June 1996). The New Civil Rights Battle . U.S News and World Report , 28-31. Member Resolution and Opinion Poll. ( 2005 , August Friday,26). Retrieved November 18, 2010,

Plutonium Facts - Periodic Table of the Elements

Plutonium Facts - Periodic Table of the Elements Plutonium  Basic Facts Atomic Number: 94 Symbol: Pu Atomic Weight: 244.0642 Discovery: G.T. Seaborg, J.W. Kennedy, E.M. McMillan, A.C. Wohl (1940, United States) Electron Configuration: [Rn] 5f6 7s2 Word Origin: Named for the planet Pluto. Isotopes: There are 15 known isotopes of plutonium. The isotope of greatest importance is Pu-239, with a half-life of 24,360 years. Properties: Plutonium has a specific gravity of 19.84 (a modification) at 25 °C, melting point of 641 °C, boiling point of 3232 °C, with a valence of 3, 4, 5, or 6. Six allotropic modifications exist, with various crystalline structures and densities ranging from 16.00 to 19.86 g/cm3. The metal has a silvery appearance which takes a yellow cast when oxidized slightly. Plutonium is a chemically reactive metal. It readily dissolves in concentrated hydrochloric acid, perchloric acid, or hydroiodic acid, forming the Pu3 ion. Plutonium exhibits four ionic valence states in ionic solution. The metal has the nuclear property of being readily fissionable with neutrons. A relatively large piece of plutonium gives off enough energy via alpha decay to be warm to the touch. Larger pieces of plutonium give off sufficient heat to boil water. Plutonium is a radiological poison and must be handled with care. It is also important to take precautions to prevent the unintentional formation of cri tical mass. Plutonium is more likely to become critical in liquid solution than as a solid. The shape of the mass is an important factor for criticality. Uses: Plutonium is used as an explosive in nuclear weapons. The complete detonation of a kilogram of plutonium produces an explosion equal to that produced by approximately 20,000 tons of chemical explosive. One kilogram of plutonium is equivalent to 22 million kilowatt hours of heat energy, so plutonium is important for nuclear power. Sources: Plutonium was the second transuranium actinide to be discovered. Pu-238 was produced by Seaborg, McMillan, Kennedy, and Wahl in 1940 by deuteron bombardment of uranium. Plutonium may be found in trace amount in natural uranium ores. This plutonium is formed by irradiation of natural uranium by the neutrons which are present. Plutonium metal can be prepared by reduction of its trifluoride with alkaline earth metals. Element Classification: Radioactive Rare Earth (Actinide) Plutonium Physical Data Density (g/cc): 19.84 Melting Point (K): 914 Boiling Point (K): 3505 Appearance: silvery-white, radioactive metal Atomic Radius (pm): 151 Ionic Radius: 93 (4e) 108 (3e) Fusion Heat (kJ/mol): 2.8 Evaporation Heat (kJ/mol): 343.5 Pauling Negativity Number: 1.28 First Ionizing Energy (kJ/mol): 491.9 Oxidation States: 6, 5, 4, 3 Lattice Structure: Monoclinic References: Los Alamos National Laboratory (2001), Crescent Chemical Company (2001), Langes Handbook of Chemistry (1952), CRC Handbook of Chemistry Physics (18th Ed.) Return to the Periodic Table

International Business (CH2, CH3, and Movie 'GUNG HO) Review

International Business (CH2, CH3, and 'GUNG HO) - Movie Review Example The second implication is that informal institutional frameworks provide some structure to an organization where formal institutions are not visible or where the formal institutions have failed. Managers should constantly be aware of both formal and informal institutional frameworks that influence their employees. This will allow the managers to manage to the framework and adjust with fluid plans if the frameworks break down. It will also allow the managers to better predict the behaviors and actions of their teams. Section 2: (40 Points) For this assignment you will be required to locate and watch the movie Gung Ho and then apply the concepts that were discussed in Chapter 3 of the textbook by answering the questions outlined below. The movie is about a small town that has always relied on manufacturing for its livelihood. The two factories have closed down, the service businesses are moving out of the town, and the majority of adults are unemployed. Hunt Stevenson solicits a Japanese company to reopen the factory. The movie tells the story of the challenges the Japanese executives, employees, and townspeople encountered during and after the reopening. This is relevant to the concepts of global business today because advancements in technology, travel, and collaboration blur the lines that separate countries. Global interactions are a frequent, everyday occurrence for many businesses. Understanding the different cultures with which one will be working is critical to maintain relationships and smooth production. b. Outline the cultural differences that exist between the Japanese management team and their US Workers? Specifically address each of the following differences by describing examples from the movie. (16 Points) Collectivism focuses all members of the team on a single purpose as a single unit. This was apparent from the first day of the factory

Microteaching LESSON PLAN Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2750 words

Microteaching LESSON PLAN - Essay Example For example, trying to access any country government computers without authorization is one of computer crimes. Thus, students will be fully informed when using computer and internet. The students will consider the right use of computer to be a way from the computer crimes as outlined in this activity. At the end of this activity students will be able to classify the computer crimes. They will compare and review between the right uses of computer and the bad using, such as Hackers. So, the students will produce a legal use of computer in the community. Introduce myself to the students. Start the introduction of the activity. I will be talking about the changes in the community to lead them to use the technology these days. I will provide the examples of good and bad uses of the technology . Divide the student into two groups. The activity will be based on paper hand to them. In the paper it will be there a types of computer crimes types with it definitions and examples. Students need to define which type matches the right definition. The strategies I will use to engage students during the activity are different. First, I will follow the theories of good teaching, and read the explanation that Biggs (1999) explain in the article. Biggs (1999) reviewed and explained the theories, which focus on three parts during learning and teaching. It is focus on: 1. What the student is; 2. What the teacher does; 3. What the student does. So, the first is what the student is; the teacher needs to know how the student participates during the lecture, If he takes notes, follows the teacher in the topic materials, listens to the teacher, or does not focus on the lecture and uses the computer, phone, or near to fall sleep. Then the teacher moves to the second question What the teacher does. The teacher learns the types of the students act during the lecture. The teacher notes the student type, if the student is good and looking

The operations of the PepsiCo Company

The operations of the PepsiCo Company The report based on the operations of PepsiCo was done in the satisfaction of a Dynamics of Strategy Assignment. The company original location is in the United States of America but the company also operates in countries globally ranging from large emerging countries, the BRIC countries: Brazil, Russia, India and China to the small Caribbean Islands. PepsiCo, initiated as Pepsi: a carbonated cola drink in the beverage industry initiated in 1968 and has continued to expand since. The company has expanded through diversification and acquisitions into both the food and beverage industry. The company has been analyzed in terms of its internal and external environment and strategic opportunities for improvement has been proposed. PepsiCos mission Our mission is to be the worlds premier consumer products company focused on convenient foods and beverages. We seek to produce financial rewards to investors as we provide opportunities for growth and enrichment to our employees, our business partners and the communities in which we operate. And in everything we do, we strive for honesty, fairness and integrity. PepsiCos vision, PepsiCos responsibility is to continually improve all aspects of the world in which we operate   environment, social, economic   creating a better tomorrow than today. Introduction PepsiCo, one of the most diverse and leading companies in the food and beverage industry initiated as Pepsi Cola in 1898 producing only cola beverages. In 1965, the company took the step to merge with another company, Frito Lay, in the food industry to form the company as the name is today, PepsiCo. PepsiCo controls 103 billion litres in market volume in the US beverage industry and concurrently a UDS $321billion in market value. PepsiCo with competitors in both the food and beverage industry, focused on international growth and further diversification. PepsiCo is the second largest beverage producer in the world and the worlds leader in its Frito Lay division in the food (salty snacks) industry. PepsiCo has numerous competitors in both the food and beverage industry: CoCa Cola, Kraft Foods, Unilever, and Nestle. PepsiCo expanded its production initially from Pepsi, a cola beverage to diversifying to water (Aquafina), Quaker Oats in the cereal and snack industry to juices and energy drinks such as Gatorade. The company further acquired and formed joint ventures increasing its product line to teas and root beers. The company acquired and formed joint ventures, along with the purchase of famous restaurant chains such as Kentucky Fried Chicken. PepsiCo currently focuses on growth through Performance with a Purpose: to improve the performance of the company, human and talent sustainability as they move towards being more environment friendly. The assignment seeks to review and analyze the external and internal environment, evaluating whether the company is in strategic fit or drift. When this is determined, the researcher would assess the feasibility, acceptability and suitability of the proposed strategic option of growth in emerging markets. The researcher would then go on to recommend a detailed implementation plan of the chosen strategic option in terms of new product development. Task 1 Evaluation of the External Environment The evaluation of the external environment was undertaken through the use of various tools which analyses conditions, entities, events and factors of the environment in which PepsiCo operates. The tools used by the researcher were the PESTLE analysis, Porters Five Forces, the 3 Cs and the Industry Life Cycle. This analysis of each tool was embarked on to determine how the activities of PepsiCo are influenced by the macro environment and whether the company is in strategic fit. PESTLE Analysis is a tool that could aid organizations making strategies by helping them understand the external environment in which they operate now and how they will operate in the future. In all markets PepsiCo has entered, the government has intervened to some extent, where they were confronted with several political barriers to entry, adhering to laws and regulations. These issues increased, as the company expanded its operations and portfolio. PepsiCo was further affected when the economic downturn negatively impacted on their financial statement as costs fluctuated. Despite this, PepsiCo was granted approval for investment into the company. Cultural and demographic aspects, social factors also affected the operations of PepsiCo which include a shift towards healthier lifestyles. PepsiCo has kept up-to-date with technological advancements by introducing the most recent improvements to machinery in the industry. They have implemented modern media methods to increase brand awareness, allowing them to being innovative, reduce costs and improve quality. PepsiCo faces legal challenges where there were bans placed on advertising in some countries. In some countries the governments have reduced the awarded contract previously set at a term of five years to one year. PepsiCo has decided to go green and be environment friendly, focusing on water, climate changes, agricultural and packaging change. They have initiated to reduce their utility consumption. Michael Porter provided a framework that models an industry as being influenced by five forces. Porters five forces is a framework used by the researcher to determine the competitive intensity of the macro environment in which PepsiCo operate. Considering PepsiCo is one of the dominants in the food and beverage industry there is little room for new entrants to create competitive pressure. Due to capital, market knowledge and experience, PepsiCo has the absolute advantage in terms of cost which would deter new competitors. PepsiCo with the advantage of high bargaining power of suppliers are able to identify, differentiate and substitute inputs. If the suppliers have greater influence on the industry, then PepsiCo would have to pay high prices for the raw materials. PepsiCo allows the buyers a strong bargaining power so that they could maintain the number of buyers they have and attract new ones. Buyers may have greater influence on PepsiCo since there are numerous substitutes for its products. The threat of substitutes which exists within the beverage and food industry is a major issue for PepsiCo, where a price change can prove futile for the company. PepsiCo is fortunate since although there are substitutes for the products there are no close rival, with a diversified portfolio that links directly to PepsiCo at all product levels. This, a strength to the company gives them the competitive advantage of operating in the industry. The 3Cs Model is a business model which offers a strategic look at the factors needed for success The researcher would use the 3Cs model to measure the differences between the actual and the perceived quality of the companys product portfolio, helping to assess the importance of the brand name PepsiCo. Market dominance of certain products such as Frito Lay and Gatorade has been a success since PepsiCo would have increased market share. PepsiCo can maintain this dominance by obtaining control of their brand through patenting. The company can further seek other measures to maintain this success, through innovation by improving existing products. PepsiCo segments its market and goals are directed towards consumers since it is the consumers who the company depends on for revenues and profits. PepsiCo portrayed them as the New Generation or the Pepsi Generation. PepsiCo has even adjusted its portfolio by improving existing products and developing new ones to meet current trends in the market: a healthier lifestyle. Although PepsiCo is dominant in some products in the market they still need to focus on its competitors strategies and techniques. Coca Cola, leader in the beverage industry enjoys the largest market share for carbonated soft drinks. Smaller competitors use strategies to allow them to remain in the market and their size, although smaller than PepsiCo to gain competitive advantage. PepsiCo is in the mature stage of the Industry Life Cycle in the food and beverage industry. This tool with knowledge of past and current market trends are used to predict future trends and potential entrants or threats that may arise in the market. PepsiCo maintains its position by using techniques such as diversification strategies and developing products towards current trends and market development. Critical Assessment of Strategic Resource Capabilities The researcher undertook an analysis of PepsiCos internal environment, comprised of the organizations resources, capabilities and competencies. This assessment helped to determine whether the company is in a strategic fit or drift. Several tools such as the SWOT analysis, the VRIO framework and the Key Success Factors were used. PepsiCo has the second highest market share in the beverage industry but have always had and continues to maintain a strong brand image. The company had the advantage since with their diversified portfolio; they were able to create an image for not only for their cola beverage but for all their products. Due to this PepsiCo encountered additional revenue for growth and was able to invest in technology with helped them to benefit from economies of scale. Despite PepsiCos many strengths they had their fair share of weaknesses. The company has limited themselves with their diversified portfolio since they have concentrated mostly in North America. This could prove that they are not fully utilizing their resources available to them globally especially in emerging countries. This weakness can be converted to an opportunity where it can be used as a strategy towards growth. Further opportunities may emerge where PepsiCo can further diversify through new product development, improvements to old products and acquisitions, towards changing demand, a healthier lifestyle. PepsiCo faces challenges from competitors and the declining economy could also prove as a threat where there is sluggish growth of the economy. PepsiCo with a strong internal work culture, an intangible resource, is structured toward the companys Performance with a Purpose to encourage professionalism and personal development while subsequently having fun. Ideas and comments are most welcomed by the management team. Young employees are given the chance to embrace early responsibility, to accept risks and make some decisions allowing them to develop and become prospective leaders. PepsiCo also focuses external culture where they give back to communities. Geographic location has impacted on the internal culture of PepsiCo where culture is altered towards employees in different regions. The strategic location of the company also helps to improve the distribution of products. At some locations, PepsiCo use to their benefit government incentives to decentralize their operations. This helps to reduce operating costs. Brand imagery, reputation and high employee morale plays a huge role in increasing goodwill of PepsiCo. This intangible asset could lead to a positive impact on the financial statements. Despite the negative outlook from the financial statements due to the economic storm and currency fluctuations, the company was able to achieve growth in 2008. Although numerous government bodies planned to increase taxes for snacks and cola beverages and PepsiCo had a high short term debt, they continued to invest for long term prospects. VRIO framework is an internal tool of analysis in the context of businesses. VRIO is an acronym for the four question framework you ask about a resource or capability to determine its competitive potential: the question of Value, the question of Rarity, the question of Imitability (Ease/Difficulty to Imitate), and the question of Organization (ability to exploit the resource or capability). PepsiCo was able to add value to their manufacturing process through innovation and efficiency in all resources: Culture/HR, Location, Brand Image, Goodwill and Financially. All these resources are aligned, organized and exploited by PepsiCo. Culture/HR is the only resource of PepsiCo which can be identified as rare and not possessed by competitors. Although Goodwill is not rare, it is not easily duplicated by customers, hence is imitable and has a sustained competitive advantage. Despite this, if given sufficient time, money and resources all of PepsiCos other resources such as location, brand image and financial prosperity can be emulated, referred to as having a competitive parity. Key Success factors necessary for the success of PepsiCo in the market is that they should continue their use of celebrities in their advertising campaign. This would help to lure customers toward the product. The company can focus on widening their distribution channels as they expand their portfolio. This would help inject additional revenue into the company. Strategic Fit PepsiCo is in a strategic drift to the extent where there is minimal innovation to develop new products. The company prefers to obtain products through mergers and acquisitions, since these products would have been established already and it reduces PepsiCos risk of a failing product. The disadvantage of this is that the brand names of the acquired products are standardized. When PepsiCo acquire these products, they continue to trade under their original name and not the name of the company, such as Gatorade. Another drift of the company is where they fail to have optimal utilization of all their resources. Their advertising campaigns do not include a wide target market. Although the company serves approximately 86% of the worlds population, their advertising is mostly positioned towards the North American markets. Despite the strategic drift of PepsiCo, the company is in a strategic fit due to their strong Culture and Human Resources. This is clearly practiced within the goals of the company Performance with a Purpose. This is advantageous to them since the management team ensures they are practice of good work culture, factors that are rare and cannot be imitated easily. The culture of this organization contributes to standardized operations which lead to high quality of the products, giving them the competitive advantage. Another factor which contributes to PepsiCos being in a fit is that the company has a diversified portfolio with no other single company in the food and beverage industry directly competing with PepsiCos range of products allowing them to sustain their competitive advantage. PepsiCos most recent objectives in their sustainability report is being accomplished and puts the company in strategic fit where they are moving towards meeting the needs of the changing demand towards healthier products. This not only increase revenue but creates a strong brand image and gives the company the competitive advantage. Another object from PepsiCos sustainability report which puts them in a fit is their drive towards going green by reducing utility consumption, the labels in their packaging and usage of plastics. The company currently takes into consideration Green Initiatives, such as building codes when entering new markets. Despite of having few strategic drift issues which cannot be ignored, PepsiCo continues to maintain their competitive advantage in the changing markets and is in a strategic fit. Task 2 Discussion of Strategic Option PepsiCo, since established in 1898 has grown into a vast well established organization with a diversified portfolio. The company has achieved this through all factors in the Ansoff Matrix, allowing them to be the worlds largest food and beverage company. The company has achieved and continues to achieve growth through improvement, diversification of their product portfolio, entering new markets and through new product the development. Through extensive research into PepsiCo, the researcher found PepsiCo has experienced a drastic fall in sales in recent times as a result of the global economic recession and due to changing consumer demands. CEO of the company, together with management has proposed to introduce new products to combat this predicament so that the company can maintain their market status and continue to achieve growth. Through profound investment and innovation, PepsiCo is targeting emerging markets: BRIC countries. In keeping with PepsiCos mission grounded on Performance with a Purpose, their goals of Human Sustainability, and their current proposal, the researcher has chosen new product development as a growth strategy towards the improvement of the future strategic direction of the organization. By this route the company would Suitability Feasibility Acceptability Implementation Plan Conclusion Appendix 1 PESTLE Appendix 2 Porters Five Forces Model Appendix 3 3Cs Model Appendix 4 SWOT Analysis Appendix 5 VRIO Framework Resources Valuable Rare Imitable Organized Competitive Implication Hierarchy of Resources Culture/HR YES YES YES YES SCA Core Financial YES NO NO YES CP Base Location YES NO NO YES CP Base Brand Image YES NO NO YES CP Base Goodwill YES NO YES YES SCA Core Appendix 6 Ansoff Matrix SOURCE: http://tutor2u.net/business/strategy/ansoff_matrix.htm

Motivational Plan

There are five basic theories of motivation. 1) Self-determination theory states that people have three basic needs. 2) Attribution theory wants to know why things happen. 3) Expectancy-value theory is interested in a person’s beliefs about abilities. 4) Social cognitive theory states that human behavior comes from their attributes. 5) Goal orientation theory wants to know the reasons for doing tasks. Self-Determination Theory The self-determination theory states that people have three basic needs. A need for autonomy, which is to feel a sense of self-directedness, the need to feel competent, and the need to be related to something. People are motivated with the things that will help meet these needs. People are motivated when their actions are self-determined. â€Å"The more self-determined the motivation is, the more the person experience positive outcomes, including persisting in the activity† (Lavigne, Vallerand & Miquelon, 2007). People perceive they have choices available to them. This theory gives another reason for negative effects of rewards on intrinsic motivation. Intrinsic motivation is when a student really wants to learn something. Students will be motivated if they feel they relate to what is going on. They also will be motivated if they feel competent. If a student feels they are smart and can do a task successfully, they will be more motivated to get it done. If an individual has the three basic needs they will have self-determination. Attribution Theory Attribution theory wants to know why things happen. It might lead to negative feelings. It could cause someone to give up or try harder depending on the feeling. â€Å"Attribution (explanatory) thinking involves an appraisal of factors contributing to success and failure outcomes and is regarded as instrumental to motivation and goal striving in achievement settings† (Perry, Stupnisky, Daniels & Haynes, 2008). Stability is if the event is constant across time and situations. A cause that is stable is failing a test because they are not smart. Intelligence is unchangeable so it is a stable attribution. A cause that is unstable is not doing well because the student was sick when they took a test. Locus is the cause is either internal of external. Locus that is internal is thinking you do not have the ability or skills to do well. Locus that is external is outside factors. These could be the teacher grades hard, the classroom environment like too noisy or interruptions, or anything that is outside the students’ ability. Control is the belief that a person can control events. If a student makes a bad grade on something, they can make two attributions for this grade. They could possible feel they just are not capable of doing the work or understanding the work. They could also feel they did not put forth a lot of effort and therefore could have controlled the grade. If it is a controllability issue, then the student is likely to try and fix it. Teachers can help students with the attribution theory by helping with stability. They can encourage a student that they are intelligent and capable of doing the work assigned. They can also encourage a student which will help with internal locus. Expectancy-value theory Expectancy-value theory is interested in a person’s belief about abilities and their value of a task. Motivation is determined by one’s expectancies for success and one’s value of the task. How a teacher teaches can influence a student’s beliefs and values. There are four components to this theory. â€Å"Correspond to the students’ beliefs about how well they will perform on upcoming tasks and relate to their perception of being able to carry out their academic projects successfully† (Chouinard & Roy, 2008). An example is a student who thinks they are logical will value problem solving. The intrinsic value is how interesting a task is to a student. If they like what they are doing, they will be motivated to finish it. The utility value is finding usefulness in a task. The student will be motivated if it will help their grade. The last component is cost. The cost value knows it will be worth their time to do it. Usually if a student knows the assignment is not going to be graded, they won’t bother to do it. Student results come from teacher expectancies. If a teacher thinks the tudents will perform poorly and they treat them this way, then they will not do well. If a teacher has high expectations for the students and shows them this, they will do better. If teachers believe that certain groups of students do not value educations, then they will have different expectations for them. Teachers also have different expectations based on culture areas and socioeconomic backgrounds. Socia l Cognitive Theory The social cognitive theory states â€Å"that most human emotion is the direct result of what people think, tell themselves, assume, or believe about themselves and their social situations† (Lantz, 1978). Students are motivated by what they see in other people. If they see that their older brother or sister cannot get anywhere in life because they dropped out, they will be less likely to drop out. They also are motivated if they have a belief they have the ability to perform a certain task. Teachers can influence their beliefs. Teachers can take a weak student and pair them with a strong student to motivate them by what they see in the strong student. Teachers can also motivate them by convincing them they have the ability to do a task. Goal orientation theory Goal orientation theory constitutes a substantial and informative body of knowledge concerning motivational processes in achievement settings and particularly in educational contexts† (Kaplan & Maehr, 2007). The goal orientation theory wants to know the students’ reasons for doing academic tasks. There are two goals: mastery goals and performance goals. Mastery goals are tasks that truly master the material. Perform ance goals are tasks that demonstrate the ability. The theorists also look at approach and avoidance goals. Approach goals are positive motivation. Avoidance goals are negative motivation. Students with mastery goals are looking to improve their competence. Mastery goals have been associated with increased effort. Mastery-focused classrooms are discussions that encourage all students to participate. Students who use mastery goals are often critical thinkers. Students who use performance goals are using cognitive skills. These are the five theories of motivation. They are used by educators everywhere. By understanding them, teachers can help encourage positive motivation and help the students achieve the best education possible.

Psittacosaurus - Facts and Figures

Name: Psittacosaurus (Greek for parrot lizard); pronounced sih-TACK-oh-SORE-us Habitat: Scrublands and deserts of Asia Historical Period: Early to middle Cretaceous (120 to 100 million years ago) Size and Weight: About 3 to 6 feet long and 50 to 175 pounds, depending on species Diet: Plants Distinguishing Characteristics: Short, blunt head with curved beak; small horns on cheeks About Psittacosaurus As you may have guessed from its name, Greek for parrot lizard, what set Psittacosaurus apart from other dinosaurs of the Cretaceous period was its distinctly un-dinosaur-like head. This plant-eaters curved beak made it somewhat reminiscent of a parrot, but otherwise, its squat noggin was distinctly tortoise-like. (One shouldnt draw too much from this analogy; Psittacosaurus, and other ornithischian dinosaurs like it, werent directly ancestral to modern birds, an honor that belongs to saurischian dinosaurs.) Although its often depicted in a four-legged posture, paleontologists believe some species of Psittacosaurus (there are at least 10 currently named) walked or ran on two legs. (A new study concludes that this dinosaur scuttled around on four legs as a juvenile, then assumed a bipedal posture thanks to a growth spurt in its hind legs.) Psittacosaurus seems to have led a relatively quiet life, although the horns on its face--probably a sexually selected characteristic--indicate that the males may have engaged in combat with each other for the right to mate with females. Theres also solid evidence that Psittacosaurus cared for its young after they hatched, like the distantly related duck-billed dinosaurs Maiasaura and Hypacrosaurus. By the way, you wouldnt know it from its small, unprepossessing appearance (six feet from head to tail and 200 pounds, max, for the largest species), but Psittacosaurus is classified as a ceratopsian--the family of horned, frilled dinosaurs the most famous members of which were the much later Triceratops, Protoceratops, and Styracosaurus. In fact, Psittacosaurus was one of the most basal ceratopsians, predated only by the late Jurassic Chaoyangsaurus and itself a close cousin to a bewildering array of proto-ceratopsian genera, including Yinlong and Leptoceratops.