Why Is China Growing So Fast Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Why Is China Growing So Fast - Term Paper Example Any country is said to be developed if the demand and supply chain of a country shows that there is more supply of goods or anything than demand by the market. Many factors count in these regards: the natural resources and their extractions according to the geography, manufacturing, distribution, consumption, exchange medium etc. All these factors set the constraints and parameters in which the economy of any country works and may or may not flourish. All activities happening in a country also account for its economic growth. The occupations, education, business and investments are the basic pillars upon which the economy stands. The greater amount of people a country produce as literates or skilled workers, the more productivity will increase, and the economy will grow. More the resources are being used by the government for its people, the less will be the demand, and ultimately the economy will boost. Overall, the size of economy of any country is determined by the gross domestic product GDP and GDP per capita of the country, which only includes such economic activities in which the money is exchanged. The living standards in a particular state are measured through GDP per capita, and every change in GDP indicates a change in the living standards. Economic growth is defined as the â€Å"increasing capacity of the economy to satisfy the wants of goods and services of the members of society. Economic growth is enabled by increases in productivity, which lowers the inputs including labor, capital, material, energy, etc. for a given amount of output† (Kendrick, John W.1961). Economic growth is often related to Economic Freedom—the process in which citizens are allowed to make their own economic policies without the interference of government. China, India and Japan are considered the fastest developing countries amongst all nations. There has been a pre-1978 era of capitalization during which the Chinese government has applied strict central indust rialization rules of its own which resulted in constrained economic growth and misallocation of resources. Ever since then having realized the effectiveness of providing economic freedom to its industrialists and decreasing the intervention on the part of government by shunning the policy of taking over the control of industries, China has witnessed rapid economic growth and has improved its business environment for local and foreign investors. In addition to that there were some other reasons of China’s economic boom apart from economic freedom? Economists carefully studied the Chinese economic system and revealed the following astonishing facts: 1. They said that no doubt the Chinese government highly focused upon capital investment like manufacturing and communication and put in an extra effort to increase the productivity of a huge skilled and efficient work force, which is considered to be the most significant factor and the actual dynamic force behind the rapid growth o f Chinese economy. The combination of large scale capital investment and efficient work force together have work wonders for the Chinese economy which can never be obtained by any of the factor alone. 2. The government of china encouraged private investors and businessmen to come forward to mutually put in place wide-scale economic reforms. Foreign investors were welcomed and they were provided with ideal conditions for business, with limited or no control of the state government. These strategies on the part of Chinese government proved to be successful and gave impetus to immense economic growth a

The report about new business plan-KFC Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

The report about new business plan-KFC - Essay Example However clinching fact would be the expected enthusiastic response from target population of locals, students and visitors of Aberystwyth town. Typically, an established brand name's franchise business would be less risky than other new ventures because the business idea has been tested and the KFC products enjoy global acceptance and saleability. Studies have reported that franchises are safer than other capital deployments in businesses with a failure rate of less than 5 percent rate compared to 90 percent failure rate for some independently initiated restaurants. Banks are also more liberal in extending finance to a franchising business, given above facts, and can finance up to 70 percent of the initial capital costs. Taking up a small business model franchisee of KFC appears to be a challenging, profitable and safe business opportunity. In the following paragraphs a business plan is taken up to commence this business systematically. We believe we have a good head start in Aberystwyth Market as there are just three competitors in fast foods and we will be specializing in chicken products which enjoy global acceptance and popularity. ... 1.3 Founder of the creation of Kentucky Fried Chicken & History /KFC Brief BackgroundKFC operates in 74 countries and territories throughout the world under the name "Kentucky Fried Chicken" and/or "KFC." It was founded in Corbin, Kentucky by Colonel Harland D. Sanders, an early developer of the quick service food business and a pioneer of the restaurant franchise concept. For the Colonel, perfection was the only acceptable level of performance for a KFC restaurant. This perfection was extended to both "finger lickin' good" food and warm, friendly hospitality. These same standards continue today with our goal of excellence for every eating experience in KFC restaurants. In the beginning of KFC, there was nothing-save a chicken recipe and a promise. "The recipe was, of course, Harland Sanders' special blend of eleven herbs and spices cooked in his own secret way. There was no striped red building, no cardboard bucket with the illustrated icon known as "the Colonel." There was no fiber glass replica of the diminutive and rotund man standing in the corner in a string tie"(Howell,2000). Sanders' signed up his first franchisee in 1952. KFC changed management several times and was under John Y. Brown and Jack Massey, Heublein and R. J. Reynolds. By the time KFC was acquired by PepsiCo in 1986, it had grown to approximately 6,600 units in 55 countries and territories. Now it is under Tricon.It is important to observe that despite frequent management turnover the KFC continued to have very detailed and effective franchisee agreement which allowed substantial leverages to franchisee units to improve the group working by their innovative methods. This unit would like to attempt the same by taking special initiatives in use of technology and dcor as

Internal And Task Environment Analysis

Internal And Task Environment Analysis The purpose of this paper is to discuss environmental factors affecting upon McDonalds management functions. And current strategy the company currently using to tackle this environmental impact. This will be achieved by exploring how McDonalds tackle with all of the external and internal environmental factors. There are mainly three factors that were selected to outline the achievement of McDonalds corporation. The first factor is globalization, which is define as closer contact between different parts of the world, with increasing possibilities of personal exchange, mutual understanding and friendship between world populations. Diversity, the difference among people and cultures, is the second factor discussed in the paper. The final factor is ethics, which can be defined as a set of principles of right conduct. This paper explains how the McDonald Corporations uses the factors to conduct business around the world. There are many different values to the dollar around the world, many issues that have occurred in many of those regions/websites, and about 120 countries served by McDonalds that Rely on the functions of management to succeed. Finally, short and long term strategic and tactical recommendations were outlined in order to enhance McDonalds competitive position within the global fast-food industry. These recommendations are both realistic and well supported, based upon the evaluation of their current strategy and activities. 1.0 Introduction McDonalds fast food restaurant is one of the largest franchises in the United States as well as aboard. Their top menu items include: hamburgers, cheeseburgers, McNuggets, and French fries. They are also known for one of their popular desserts: the apple pie and their breakfast sandwich: the Egg McMuffin. There are more than 32,000 McDonalds restaurants serving in 117 countries. More than 75% of McDonalds restaurants worldwide are owned and operated by independent owners. McDonalds has several ethical and social responsibility policies in place throughout their solely owned and franchised companies. These policies include placing the customer experience at the core of what they do, committing to their employees by nurturing their talent and rewarding their achievements, maintaining high standards regarding the conduct for business, and giving back to the communities in which they are established. All of these values are infiltrated through all levels of the company, which keeps McDonalds thriving as a successful fast food chain restaurant. Moreover, as visited McDonalds stores all over the country, it became clear to me that the drive-through business was successful priority one. Risk management is imperative to McDonalds. They have a risk assessment tool that they use to determine the country risk: which pertains to the specific country/region they are located in; industry risk: pertains to supplies produce; and facility risk: which is a combination of both country and risk groundwork. These factors are all part of the risk assessment tool that is used in each of their companies to help them with risk management. Security features in McDonalds includes their security camera systems within the facilities to continuously monitor all activity in and around the restaurants to ensure the safety for the workers as well as customers. Thus, McDonalds use these security cameras also in regards to workers compensation claims or liability lawsuit claims from consumers. McDonalds also monitors their computer software systems with an ACS system that monitors the technological factors of their business. 2.0 Internal and Task Environment Analysis 2.1 McDonalds Mission The mission statement of McDonalds fast food restaurants around the world is not much different from any restaurant chain McDonalds brand mission is to be our customers favorite place and way to eat. McDonalds vision is to be the worlds best quick service restaurant experience. Being the best means providing outstanding quality policy QCSV that is a quality, cleanliness, service and value, so that we make every customer in every restaurant smile. Moreover, have provided its customers with the opportunity to dine and mingle with family and friends too. That broad and common mission statement is more clearly defined by the McDonalds good Values for money food to its customers and to make its product offering available to a wide customer base. Currently McDonalds is implementing a global strategy that it calls Play to Win, which is designed to create a consistently excellent customer experience in McDonalds restaurants. The five key facets of that McDonalds experience are people, products, place, price, and promotion (4P). Importantly, to ensure that each customer receives prompt, professional, friendly and courteous service. Additionally, to maintain a clean, comfortable and well maintained premises for its guests and staff. The price provided at fair, nutritional using only quality ingredients well prepared meals as well. Which reflects the experience those customers can expect when walking into a McDonalds fast food restaurant no matter where it is located. Eventually, ensure that guests and staff are treated with the respect and dignity they deserve and thanks each guest for the opportunity to serve them. By maintaining these objectives, aims to be assured of a fair profit that will allow it to contribute to the community it serve. 2.2 McDonalds Objectives A marketing plan must be created to meet clear objectives. Objectives guide marketing actions and are used to measure how well a plan is working. These can be related to market share, sales, and goals, reaching the target audience and creating awareness in the marketplace. The objectives communicate what marketers want to achieve. Long-term objectives are broken down into shorter-term measurable targets, which McDonalds uses as milestones along the way. Results can be analyzed regularly to see whether objectives are being met. This type of feedback allows the company to change plans. It gives flexibility. Once marketing objectives are set the next stage is to define how they will be achieved. The marketing strategy is the statement of how objectives will be delivered. It explains what marketing actions and resources will be used and how they will work together. However, wish to provide tasty foods and drink we sell meets the highest standards of quality, freshness, seasonality, combines both modern-creative and traditional southern styles of cooking for their customers. Making Money is the main objective of any business and without it the company would go bust. To consistently provide customers with impeccable service by demonstrating warmth, graciousness, efficiency, knowledge, professionalism and integrity in its work. To have every customer who comes through its doors leave impressed by McDonalds and excited to come back again. Most people can find a McDonalds in any metropolitan city anywhere in the world. McDonalds global success can be attributed to company objectives. When consumers are aware of McDonalds objectives, they better understood the value of such a large, global franchise in helping people find employment and in offering a cheap, sustainable product to their consumers. To create and maintain a restaurant that is comprehensive and exceptional in its attention to every detail of operation. Moreover, can provide all who work with them a friendly, cooperative and rewarding environment which encourages long- term, satisfying, growth employment so simple to able make their customers happy. They also need and have trained staff who are supposed to put a smile on the customers faces and who deal with the business side of the company e.g. profits etc. Additionally to provide a consistent and steady source of revenue and income for its shareholders and all related stakeholders. Besides, also to be a responsible corporate citizen and to be an exemplary corporate member in the countries in which it operates. 2.3 McDonalds Social Responsibility Being aware of and act on its responsibilities as a good corporate citizen. McDonalds firmly believes in giving back to the communities in. We love to provide support and encouragement to the people who need it the most. All our restaurants approach to charities and sponsorships. We believe these help inspire the people of Pakistan, especially the underprivileged ones, to live a better life. We are dedicated to delivering great experiences through our ongoing community support programs. Undertake meaningful involvement of McDonalds restaurants in selected charitable activities in its community and region. As supported a school activity recently for Compass-a school for the under privileged children also extended support by providing free food for students at the carnival arranged by the school. All McDonalds products shall be of the highest quality and value, be healthy, nutritious and provided with outstanding personal services at the lowest possible prices consistent with a fair return on investment for shareholders, job enhancement/security for employees and a level of community involvement by everyone connected with its business. Therefore, all products and services shall be delivered consistently and measured one satisfied customer at a time, whether by company-owned or franchised operations, in superior, clean, convenient, fun and friendly neighborhood environments. Eventually, and make McDonalds the best place to eat and the best place to work. To make people realize that the worlds natural resources are fast diminishing and something must be done about it, McDonalds has created a public awareness program called McSaviors.McSaviors has certainly helped in bringing about a sense of awareness in adults that Pakistan faces a shortage of water and electricity and that good care must be taken of these precious resources. All school children are eligible to join McSaviors. They can become members by visiting any McDonalds Restaurant and filling out the registration form. It is also planned to seek the support of schools in further promoting the program. Question 2 Investigate the external environment factors in which this organization is operating. (E.g. using PESTLED tools to analyses the external environment.) 3.0 External Environment Analysis The PESTLE Analysis is a framework used to scan the organizations external environment factor. PESTLE stands for Political, Economical, Social, Technological, Legal and Environmental. 3.1. PESTEL Analysis and Environmental Impact Matrix (Macro Environment) A PESTLE analysis should feed into a SWOT analysis as it helps to determine the threats and opportunities represented by macro-environment forces that the organization usually cannot control. Hence, below table provides an analysis of the external international marketing environment as well as the threats and opportunities of each factor of the fast-food industry. 3.1.1 Political Alarmed by links between poor diet and disease, as well as striking increases in obesity, policymakers, the public, and health professionals have challenged food industry practices. Although many forces contribute to obesity and poor diet, food industry behaviors such as marketing unhealthy foods to children, promoting large portions and between-meal snacks, and exploiting schools for commercial gain have raised calls for government regulation and paved the path for actions such as requiring calorie labeling in restaurants. The menu of McDonald in the pass do not label the nutritions of the food. Hence customers do not aware unhealthy food of fast food that provided by cDonald. Starting in 2006, the fast food behemoth promises to place nutrition information on the packaging of most menu items(R1). Recently, While millions of Americans working low-paying jobs, President Barack Obamas call for a $9 minimum hourly wage were successful in February 2013 (R2). This regulation makes McDonal d not happy because it would reduce revenue of the company and it is a threat to McDonald business. 3.1.2 Economical McDonalds, the worlds largest fast-food chain, reported a decline in an important global sales figure, the first such drop in almost a decade by November 2012(R3). It is an unexpected sharp drop in sales which some restaurants sales fell 2.2 percent in the United States and Europe and declined 2.4 percent in the Asia Pacific, Africa and Middle East regions (R3). However, Global Fast Food Restaurants global market research report provides the latest industry statistics and industry trends, major fast food retailers have responded by expanding the number of healthy options on their menus, the general trend toward health awareness has hurt demand for the typically greasy food provided by the these restaurants. However, the industry experienced steady and growing demand from emerging economies, which boosted the industrys overall performance. Over the five years to 2012, industry revenue will grow at an average annual rate of 2.2% to $499.5 billion(R4). Therefore,the industry report identifies the leading companies globally and offers strategic industry analysis of the key factors influencing the market. Furthermore the unemployment rate of McDonald is decreasing over the five years to 2012 (R5) and the figure is shown in Appendix. Hence, McDonalds is going on a hiring blitz for thousands of jobs in Canada has been announced on 9th April 2013(R6). 3.1.3 Social In the last few decades the number of so-called civilization diseases has dramatically increased. Research has proved that the main cause for these diseases is the change in way of life, including rising stress in a fast paced world and a lack of attention to physical activity and good nutrition. Nutrition and bad dietary habits have the greatest influence on weight gain and obesity, which are serious public health problems because the increased risk of premature death and civilization diseases like heart diseases, high blood pressure and diabetes. The state of health in the European countries was examined, with special focus on Hungary, regarding public health indicators and nutrition habits (R7). The fast-food industry is a favour restaurant for nowadays peoples and has been criticised for providing unhealthy food to consumers and caused obesity in the country. 3.1.4 Technological McDonalds has adopted the use of technology in delivering its fast food to their consumers. The most recent McDonalds technology development has been installing WI-FI hotspots in most of their restaurants globally (R8). This model is made to introduce more young and tech-people into the restaurants creating some what of a starbucks feel, which by the way is free. Besides, Mcdonalds uses a 100% biodiesel technology (R8). Doing this has helped reduce carbon emissions with the truck making the deliveries. Moreover, McDonalds uses Nintendo DS system as a e-learning training tool for their new recruit staff in over 3,000 of their restaurants. These gaming systems train the recruits and grade them on their performance, in which they can compare with other colleagues and view their progress. There are many types of information systems used in McDonalds too such as Transaction Processing System (TPS), Decision support system (DSS), Management Information Systems (MIS), Made for you system, POS system Scale of Point system and Hyperactive Bob system(R9). Transaction system is important to answer routine questions, and it helps to conduct business such as payroll, employee record keeping or paying an employee. Decision support system is used to model data and make quality decision based on the data , making the right decision is usually based on the quality of the data and ones ability to analyze the data. Management information system is a system that provides information needed to manage organizations effectively. In Made for you system when a customer places an order , the sandwich item will immediately appears in the computer monitor in the kitchen and a tone sound to alert the kitchen staff . Point of scale system to ensure fast and accurate order , because this system is used to speed the business process, it can track massive amounts of data in seconds. The Hyperactive Bob system used computers and rooftop cameras to monitor traffic entering a restaurants parking lot and drive-thru. All these technologies used by McDonald are helping in daily business and ensure the business delivers smooth to customers. 3.1.5 Legal McDonalds has been involved in certain of lawsuits and other legal cases in their fast food business. Defamation in the McLibel case was an English lawsuit happened by McDonalds Corporation against environmental activists Helen Steel and David over a pamphlet critical of the company(R10). McDonald was won in the English court. McDonald has been sued a restaurant MacJoy in Phillipines for using a similar restaurant name with McDonald(R11). This is to keep the name of McDonald as their company trademark and copyright in the regulation. McDonald complies with the global operators regulation which are opening hours, taxation and employment in all business country such as real case happened between McDonald and Coalition of Immokalee workers in US (R11). Besides, all global countries are required to meet national food standards such as the requirements set out by the Malaysia Ministry of Health, McDonald food must Halal in Malaysia(R12). Advertisement of McDonald must honour and cannot mislead the consumers (R11). Furthermore, health and safety law is important to ensure workers are working in the safe working environment, McDonald restaurant (R11). 3.1.6 Environmental Environmental activists are promoting go green as well as it is encouraged by most countries governments so McDonald has been introduced go green program such as REDUCE, RE-USE, RECYCLE, DISPOSE. Its better to recycle trash than to throw it away, better to re-use a bottle or bag directly than to recycle it, and best of all to reduce garbage by not generating it in the first place. McDonalds has been whittling away at the thickness of its polystyrene burger containers, straws, and cold drink lids, reducing them on average by 12 percents (R13). McDonald is welcome in every step toward environmental responsibility such as above organized program. 4.0 McDonalds Internal and External Analysis The following framework identifies McDonalds review of the Corrective Action System. For SWOT steps and flow. STRENGHS 1.Ranks very high on the Forture Magazines food service companies that are most admired list. 2.One of the best brand recognition in the world,the golden arches and Ronald McDonald. 3.Global operations all over the world. 4.Cultural diversity in the foods that are provided based on location of the restaurant. 5.Excellent locations in theme parks,airports,Wal-Mart store,and along most well traveled roads. 6.Efficient operating guidelines in the assembly line fashion. 7.Food safety guidelines are strictly adhered to. WEAKNESSES 1.Failing pizza test market thus limiting their ability to complete with fast food pizza providers. 2.Training costs are elevated due to high 3.Very minimal concentration on providing organic foods. 4.Large fluctuations in their net and operating profits making impacts on the investors. 5.Not much variation in seasonal products that are affered. 6.Quality concerns due to franchised operations. 7.Focus on burgers and grease fried foods and not on healthier option for their customers. OPPORTUNITIES 1.Opening more joint ventures with several different retailers. 2.Being more responsive to the social changes to healthier options. 3.advertising the capabilities of Wifi internet services in the branches. 4.Expanding on the advertising in regards to being more socially responsible in the environment. 5.Expansions of business into newly developed parts of the world. 6.Open product up to allergen free options such as peanut free and gluten free foods. 7.Continue to venture into more enticing beverage choices. THREATS 1.Their marketing strategies that entice people from small children all the way to adults and the criticism that they take beause of it. 2.Lawsuts for offering unhealthy foods that have alleged addictive additives. 3.Contamination risks that include the threat of e-coli containments. 4.The vast amount of eat in fast food restaurants that are open as competition. 5.Social changes to a more balanced meal in cluding fruits and vegetables in servings of five per day. 6.Focus on healthier dieting by consumers. 7.Down turn in economy affecting the ability to eat out as much. 4.1 Internal Analysis 4.1.1 Resources and Capabilities A firms resources and capabilities can be measured through identifying its tangible andintangible resources and capabilities within. Tangible and intangible resources aresignificant in implementing firms strategies. It ranges from financial, physical,technological and organizational; while intangible can be human, innovation andreputational assets. Incase of Macdonalds, is the worlds largest chain of hamburgersfast food restaurants, serving nearly 47 million customers daily.The restaurants arefound in 119 countries and territories around the world. McDonalds operates over 31,000restaurants worldwide, employing more than 1.5 million people. Looking at theincreasing popularity especially in South-Asian region it is predicted Macdonalds wouldexpand even further in new countries and unexplored territories. 4.2 External Analysis McDonalds has many opportunities in the external environment due to an increase in eating out, and growth of the hot drinks market. During the recession, McDonalds Informal Eating Out (IEO) market share increased to a record high of 11.5% and a quarter of surveyed teenagers said they purchase fast-food at least once a week (Mintel, 2011). They are a global company operating more than 23,500 restaurants in 109 countries. By being spread out in different regions, this gives them the ability to weather economic fluctuations which are localized by country. They can also operate effectively in an economic downturn due to the social need to seek out comfort foods. Health consciousness trends are a global threat, as McDonalds has been traditionally perceived as offering only fatty food. Recently, some healthier options have been introduced, i.e. salads and wraps, in efforts to shift their position in the consumer eye. However, the brand is still perceived as unhealthy and this poses a continual threat. McDonalds uses only 100% pure USDA inspected beef, no fillers or additives. Additionally the produce is farm fresh. McDonalds serves 100% farm raised chicken no fillers or additives and only grade-A eggs. McDonalds foods are purchased from only certified and inspected suppliers. McDonalds works closely with ranchers, growers and suppliers to ensure food quality and freshness. 5.0 Recommendations Strategic and tactical recommendations for McDonalds. The following table outlines the strategic and tactical recommendations for the future success: Short term (6 months- 1 year) Long-term (1- 5 Years) Developing and expanding business in developing countries with the middle classes Promoting recycling and environmentally friendly program in the internal working environment Adapting the foods according to the cultural and regional taste as well as provide healthy food Encourage social responsibility program for health awareness Loyalty program such as provide discount in happy hour and give free items with loyalty sticker or card Expand business with other healthy food brand 5.1 Short Term Recommendations (6 months 1 year) Growing middle classes in developing country give an opportunity for expanding the business since many western markets are saturated. Besides, McDonald has been focused on the taste of the food according to regional and emerging economies offer multiple opportunities for product adaptation. For example, pastry options in Brazil and cheese products in India could increase sales. Further adaptation of meal size and price will cater for a larger market demographic as well as introduce healthy food in all franchises since health awareness is strictly important around the world. A loyalty program could be used to increase frequency of a customers purchasing. This could be introduced discounts in certain happy hours, or given free items with loyalty sticker or card when over a purchase limit to encourage more purchase. 5.2 Long Term Recommendations (1 5 years) Awareness of environment, environmentally-friendly and ethically-sourced packaging are activated by most global countries. This encourages McDonald provides this knowledge among the workers in a working environment to show difference McDonald culture compare to their competitors. Although McDonalds every year supports social responsibility in ophanant houses, old folks, blind houses in various charities to help weak peoples, further emphasis on charitable work could positively alter customers perception of the brand. Besides, promote health awareness to them with McDonalds products. Expanding the health-conscious fast-food market under the guise of a different brand would secure a larger market share and diversify their business, spreading the risk of failure. 6.0 Conclusion It is argued that effective marketing strategies and tactics cannot be developed withoutfirstly analysing the environment in which the company operates. A number of uncontrollable elements affect McDonalds international marketing strategy and tacticalimplementation. These groups of elements include the PESTLE (political, economic,social, technological, legal and environmental), structure of the market and competition being faced (Porters (1980) five forces analysis) as well as analysis of its stakeholders,customers and product adaptation within its internationalisation strategy. All of theseaspects are crucial to a companys strategic decision making. The level of understandingthat exists in these relationships will determine the success of a company. McDonalds is not making a one-time standardised global choice but it is striking tofind a balance. This is not a straightforward task, as identifying the balance betweenstandardisation and adaptation is a challenge and very difficult to achieve. The goals of reducing costs and complexity lead McDonalds to consider standardisation, whilecustomer orientation sways it towards adaptation. It is evident through the analysis thatMcDonalds is adapting its marketing mix elements in order to go in line with the externalenvironment. At the same time, it should be noted that the company is also standardisingwhen and where possible in its desire to achieve economies of scale and global uniformityand image.With respect to McDonalds internationalisation strategy, the companys effectivenessand profitability is obviously well supported by their strong competitive position andmarket share in their primary product market. Its international success is achieved by thecompanys strategy and tactics, which complement each other and work in harmony, providing the optimum return bounded by efficiency. The company is thriving as it is botheffective (doing things right) and efficient (doing the right thing).McDonalds portfolio of products is well managed and ensures the best fit between thecompanys strengths and weaknesses and for offsetting the threats found in its competitiveenvironment. In considering the strong competitive position of the firm in a highlyattractive market, it is suggested that McDonalds should protect its position (Mckinseymatrix). This can be achieved by concentrating efforts on maintaining its existing strength by investing to grow at maximum digestible rate. It is recommended that McDonalds continue this approach, that is: simultaneouslyfocus its attention on aspects of the business that require global standardisation and aspectsthat demand local responsiveness. When appropriate, processes should be standardised,however, operation in local markets necessitates the maintenance of the appropriate localflexibility.McDonalds is adopting differentiation and cost leadership strategies (genericstrategies). In terms of differentiation, the firm attempts to be diverse from its competitors by adding something to its product that will provide a unique value to its customers. 7.0 References 1) http://www.commondreams.org/views05/1103-23.htm. Last accessed on 12/04/2012 2) http://money.msn.com/now/post.aspx?post=d184c64e-c231-426c-bb2e-8935ebd3ee06. Last accessed on 12/03/2012 3)http://www.nytimes.com/2012/11/09/business/mcdonalds-reports-global-decline-in-sales.html?ref=mcdonaldscorporation. Last accessed on 12/03/2012 4) http://www.ibisworld.com/industry/global/global-fast-food-restaurants.html. Last accessed on 12/03/2012 5) http://research.stlouisfed.org/fred2/series/MOMCDO9URN. Last accessed on 13/03/2012 6) http://www.chch.com/home/item/12412-mcdonalds-hiring-day. Last accessed on 13/03/2012 7) http://ageconsearch.umn.edu/bitstream/44325/2/460.pdf. Last accessed on 13/03/2012 8) http://mcdonaldsteam3.blogspot.com/2010/05/mcdonalds-corp.html. Last accessed on 13/03/2012 9) http://mcdonaldsmis.blogspot.com/p/mcdonalds-is_04.html. Last accessed on 14/03/2012 10) http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/McLibel_Case. Last accessed on 14/03/2012 11) http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/McDonalds_legal_cases. Last accessed on 14/03/2012 12) http://www.mcdonalds.com.my/abtus/CSR.pdf. Last accessed on 15/03/2012 13) http://www.sustainer.org/dhm_archive/index.php?display_article=vn304mcdonaldsed 8.0 Bibliography http://www.aboutmcdonalds.com/mcd/our_company/mission_and_values.html.Last accessed on 8/04/2012 http://retailindustry.about.com/od/retailbestpractices/ig/Company-Mission-Statements/McDonald-s-Restaurants-Mission-Statement.htm. Last accessed on 8/04/2012 http://wiki.answers.com/Q/What_are_the_aims_and_objectives_of_McDonalds.Last accessed on 10/04/2012 http://businesscasestudies.co.uk/mcdonalds-restaurants/the-marketing-process/marketing-objectives.html#axzz2Prg92Wds. Last accessed on 10/04/2012 http://www.mcdonalds.com.pk/page/corporate-social-responsibility. Last accessed on 10/04/2012 http://www.mcdonalds.com.pk/page/corporate-social-resp

Preexistence of Christ :: essays research papers

Preexistence of Christ Advanced Information The preincarnate existence of Christ may be "only a simple, contemplative inference backwards from the spiritual glory of the present Christ" (Deissmann); certainly its clearest expression is found in later writing reflecting upon the rudimentary messianic, even adoptionist, assessment of Christ in the primitive Christian community (Acts 2:22 - 23; 10:38). Yet preexistence is at least implied in words of Jesus himself: "The son of man came"; the owner of the vineyard "had still. . . a beloved son: finally he sent him." It is explicit in sayings attributed to Jesus in John's Gospel: "I came down from heaven"; "The glory I had with thee before the world was." Jewish scholars attributed "ideal" preexistence to things (law, temple) and persons (Adam, Moses) deeply reverenced, echoed perhaps in Paul's calling Christ "last Adam. . . from heaven." Greek thinking, reflected in Philo, was familiar with preexistence of souls. But it is unnecessary to find here more than a source of usable terms. The idea that the Son of God, eternally preexisting in glory with the Father, moved by love became incarnate was too central to Christian faith to depend upon coincidences of language for its basis. BELIEVE Religious Information Source web-site Our List of 1,000 Religious Subjects E-mail Paul appeals for generosity because Christ, "through rich, became poor." He pleads that converts live as sons because "God sent forth his son"; argues for self effacement from the fact that Christ, being in the form of God, "emptied himself"; contends, against the Gnostics' pleroma filling the gulf between God and creation, that "all things were created in, through, and for Christ. . . who is before all things." As "Lord from heaven" Christ provides the pattern of our resurrected humanity; as he first descended, so he has ascended, the measure of his triumph and assurance of ours (2 Cor. 8:9; Gal. 4:4; Phil. 2:5 - 6; Col. 1:15 - 16; Eph. 4:8 - 9). For such practical, pastoral exhortations one does not argue from fringe speculations, but only from familiar, accepted, foundation truths. John's Gospel and Epistle, assuming that Christ came from God and went to God (John 13:3), emphasize his being sent by the Father on divine mission, expressing divine love (John 3:16; 1 John 4:9 - 10), a revelation of the unseen Father by one belonging "in the bosom of the Father" (John 1:18), a divine Word, present when God spoke at creation and now again conveying meaning and power to the world (John 1).

Care of a Patient in Acute Pain from a Total Knee Replacement Jahaira Melendez Essay

Nursing care after a total knee replacement is very essential in promoting a speedy and safe recovery for a patient. In an attempt to replicate the knee’s natural ability to roll and glide as it bends by cutting away damaged bone and cartilage and replacing it with an artificial joint, acute pain following the procedure can be unbearable. In assisting the patient in controlling the pain would only guarantee the best recovery possible. With pain control, the patient will be able to perform follow up care and exercises to the best of their ability and over 90% of patients who undergo a total knee replacement have good results with recovery and ability to resume performing normal daily activities and minimizing the risks of complications to the surgical site. Keywords: Pain management, encouragement, total knee replacement, arthritis, prosthetic Care of a Patient in Acute Pain from a Total Knee Replacement A common medical condition seen in many aspects of the medical field is arthritis. Arthritis is the inflammation of a joint and the most common type of arthritis is osteoarthritis, also known as wear and tear. Pain from any medical condition or procedure can be very stressful to a patient and inhibit any recovery. Arthritis can be diagnosed by performing an x-ray to determine the extent of joint damage. Someone with arthritis of the knee usually has difficulty walking, climbing stairs and getting in and out of chairs. An orthopedic physician can recommend interventions. The most common joint replacement surgical intervention to help control and alleviate chronic pain for a patient is a Total Knee Replacement, also known as arthroplasty. A total knee replacement is performed to relieve moderate or severe pain and restore function in severely diseased knee joints. This procedure is not performed until pain is no longer controlled with non-operative treatment such as weight loss, activity modification, anti-inflammatory medications, joint supplements and cortisone injections. It is also not performed frequently on younger patients due to the implant wearing out quickly. An orthopedic physician would determine the type of prosthetic needed in order to achieve the most success. There are also modified implants to provide the best possible functioning with long lasting results such as partial knee, rotating knee, gender specific knee and custom knee. To perform the procedure, an orthopedic surgeon would administer general anesthesia, which means one is unconscious during operation, or spinal or epidural anesthesia in which a person is awake but cannot feel any pain from the waist down. During the procedure, the knee is in a bent position to fully expose the joint surfaces. An incision of 6 to 10 inches (15-25cm) is made on the front of the knee. The kneecap is moved aside and damaged surfaces are cut away. The femur is cut to match the corresponding surface of the metal femoral component that is placed on the end of the femur and the tibia is prepared with a flat cut on top to fit the metal and plastic tibial component that is inserted into the bone so the femoral component will slide as the knee is bent. If needed, the patella is cut flat and fitted with a plastic patella component and plastic spacers are inserted between the metal components for smooth gliding. Prior to completion, the knee is tested during surgery to ensure correct sizing and then closed with stitches or staples. The procedure would take 1 to 2 hours and recovery would be another 1 to 2 hours and then require a hospital stay of a couple of days. During the hospital stay, encouragement to move the foot and ankle to increase blood flow and prevent swelling or clots and blood thinners, support hoses or compression boots are very important. A nurse should also encourage the patient to cough regularly and take deep breaths to promote the movement of mucus that settles in the lungs during the procedure while being under anesthesia. Caring for a patient in acute pain after a procedure and managing pain levels is a very important part of recovery. Without pain control a patient will not be able to achieve recovery levels as quickly as possible without causing other injuries. Acute pain is related to tissue injury secondary to the surgical intervention. Upon discharge, teaching on follow up care is very important. A patient needs to know what to do and what to watch for as part of their recovery. Vital discharge instructions that a patient must be taught are: * When allowed to shower, usually 3 to 4 days after surgery, carefully wash incision with soap and water, rinse well and gently pat dry. Do no rub or apply creams. * Sit when showering to avoid falls. Avoid soaking to prevent infections. Try using non-slip mats, grab bars and elevated toilet seat or shower chair to prevent falls. Take pain medications as directed, do not double up doses if any doses are missed and do not drive when taking narcotics, usually about 6 weeks before it is ok to drive. * If taking a blood thinner, always verify with physician if it is ok to take Ibuprofen or any anti-inflammatory medications * Always sit in chairs with arms to make it easier to stand or sit but only 30 to 45 minutes at a time. * Sleep with pillow under ankle and keep knee straight but change leg position at night and nap if tired but don’t stay in bed all day. Wear support stockings for about 4 to 6 weeks and do not pivot, twist or kneel. * Walk up and down stairs with support, one step at a time using good knee to step up and bad knee to step down. As a fall prevention, always remove loose wires, throw rugs and have good lighting and keep items within reach. * Before and after any activity, ice the area for 30 minutes. Most importantly, teaching about potential risks such as nerve damage, stroke, and heart attack, blood clots in leg vein or lungs or infection should really be emphasized when discussing discharge instructions. Signs of infection would include increased redness, tenderness, swelling and pain of surgical site, stiffness, and fever with temperatures above 100 degrees Fahrenheit, shaking chills and drainage from site. If any of these symptoms occur, a call to the physician should be made immediately. Recovery will take several weeks during which time crutches or a walker will be needed and arrangements for transportation and everyday tasks will have to be made. Physical activity should be resumed slowly with normal household activities, a graduated walking program and knee strengthening exercises until staples or stitches are removed 2 to 3 weeks after surgery. Low impact exercising such as swimming or riding a stationary bicycle is tolerable but high impact activities such as running are not recommended due to an increased risk of joint failure because the knee joint components can loosen. During recovery from the surgical intervention, a nurses care to help control acute pain for the patient is one of the most important factors in helping a patient fully recover without further complications. Walking and knee movement begins soon after surgery so less pain would benefit the patient to move sooner and get strength back quickly. Pain control can be done with the use of analgesic and non-analgesic relief measures and reporting uncontrolled symptoms immediately. A nurse can assist with pain management interventions such as: * Performing comprehensive assessment of pain to include location, characteristics, onset, duration, frequency, quality, intensity or severity and precipitating factors. Always consider cultural differences and in non-verbal patient use the analog pain scale to evaluate pain control measures required * Reducing or eliminating increasing pain factors like fear or lack of knowledge * Teaching non pharmacological techniques like relaxation, massage, guided imagery and distraction * Checking vitals every 4 hours and neurovascular checks every hour during the first 12 to 24 hours then every 2 to 4 hours and always report any abnormal findings * Providing prescribed analgesics before activity to increase participation and assessing levels of comfort frequently * Initiating physical therapy, exercises and range of motion while teaching and reinforcing the use of techniques to prevent weight bearing on affected extremity and recommending home health or a rehabilitation facility * Monitoring incision bleeding, emptying and recording drainage every 4 hours and changing dressing every 24 to 48 hours * Encouraging increased fluid intake and high fiber diet, stool softener and a well-balanced diet with increased protein * Encouraging use of compression stockings to decrease swelling. Nursing care of a patient is very crucial in order to help the patient avoid potential complications with the prosthetic. An infected knee would require surgery to remove artificial parts and antibiotics to kill the bacteria then after clearing the infection another surgery would be required to install a new prosthetic. A nurse’s role in recovery is very important in many aspects of the patient’s care and the nurse can encourage and support the patient in building the confidence that they are able to perform the necessary steps to gain the ability to restore normal functions. Most importantly, helping the patient keep pain levels under control by whatever measures are comfortable to the patient should be first in mind. Pain can be the main factor that would prevent a patient from doing any follow care or treatment they are required to do in order to keep the prosthetic functioning adequately. The patient should be able to rely on the nurse to keep them in a comfortable state with the assistance of keeping in communication with the physician and without this patient-nurse relationship the patient would not be able to recover properly and achieve goals set as part of their recovery treatment plan.

Malicious Code Cyber Attacks

The use of internet and networks have various advantages where companies can increase cost efficiency by sharing resources and crucial data can be shared and backed up on various locations. The network of a company though quite important in modern times is prone to various cyber attacks which target the financial and sensitive sectors of a company. A potential hacker could target the network of a company in various ways if there is a security loophole in the company network. The various cyber attack threats a company faces include cracking, malicious code, back door, sniffer, TCP hijacking, mail bombs and other threats.The nature of such a threat, its effect on the network, problems caused by the attack and the countermeasures available to the company is explained. Cyber Attacks Using Malicious Code The most common type of cyber attacks involves malicious code. A hacker encodes a piece of code using some programming language and attaches an executable file to an email or sends this f ile to potential targets using an internet messenger service. The code usually creates a loophole in the network infrastructure of the company and the hacker can easily access any data or files available on the intranet of the company that is not shared with the general public.The hacker can easily access financial, personal and other sensitive information from the network of the company and misuse it in various ways. The sensitive data may include the industrial secrets of the company, the personal files of employees, financial information regarding the company and marketing policies and plans. When a company is attacked through malicious code, a person would receive an email or instant message requiring the person to open a file which would be executed and embedded in the network infrastructure and the company would face various problems (T., Sachs, Devost, Shaw, & Stroz, 2004). The level of severity of these problems may be minimum or maximum. The hacker would have access to the marketing and financial procedures of the company and could black-mail the company or provide this data to the competitors of the company. Another major problem caused by this attack would be the malfunctioning or stoppage of any crucial software which is necessary for running business operations. Personal information of the employees including names, telephone numbers and addresses would be compromised and would create a personal threat to them as well.The cyber attack could launch a companywide malfunction of hardware and software limiting the operations of the company, as today almost all operations are dependent on computers. The code could change critical information relating to business operations such as input data for various operating processes. The company can stop and prevent these cyber attacks in various ways. The malicious code technique of attack usually involves a file which is transferred through emails, instant messengers, loopholes in the firewall framework and da ta transfers from insecure websites and sources.The attacks can be prevented by filtering content received over the internet through emails and instant messengers. Antivirus, intrusion detection and content filtering programs can be implemented to limit transfer of malicious software or code. The employees of the company should be trained in this regard and should be made aware of the potential dangers of malicious code and the sources it can come from. The firewalls implemented in the company should be tested and audited with test scenarios to guarantee the safety of these firewalls.All backup of data should be kept in safe and secure locations which is not available on the network of the company. When the attack does occur there should be contingency plans available to cope with the effects of this attack and operating procedures should be defined well ahead of time to deal with such threats. Intrusion detection and prevention systems should be implemented at all levels of the net work to increase the safety and security of the network (GFI, 2009). Conclusion Cyber attacks are very common in modern times and there are various types of threats and these methods and types changing with the pace of time.Individuals and companies also need to be updated on the various new methods, techniques and prevention for such attacks. If there is a cyber attack on an individual or a company, it could result in adverse consequences including loss of crucial data and loss of financial resources. To prevent and limit the frequency and probability of these attacks various protection and safeguard tools such as antivirus and intrusion detection should be implemented. References GFI. (2009). Targeted Cyber Attacks. Cary: GFI. T. , P. , Sachs, M. , Devost, M. G. , Shaw, E. , & Stroz, E. (2004). Cyber Adversary Characterization. Burlington: Syngress.