Buddhism, Confucianism, and Shintoism

The three of the most common religions in Asia are Buddhism, Shintoism, and Confucianism. In many ways, these religions share a number of common traits although they do possess a certain number of distinct differences as well. As such, a clear examination of the similarities and differences will be provided herein. Buddhism originated in India where it later traveled to China and to Japan. The Chinese version of Zen Buddhism is probably the most prevalently practiced form of the religion in the world.Mainly, this is because this form of Buddhism is mostly concerned with philosophical and practical approaches to Buddhist theory and study, Mainly, Buddhism is concerned no with an afterlife or a heaven as much as it is concerned with achieving enlightenment on earth. A simple definition of enlightenment would be a free and clear mind that does not prescribe to any attachments or suffering. This is clearly not an easy state of mind to attain. However, by following Buddhism’s 8 Fol d Path and 4 Noble Truths throughout one’s life, it may be possible to attain enlightenment.Both the 8 Fold Path and the 4 Noble Truths are designed as a means of approaching life is a safe and sane manner that leads to eventual enlightenment. As the name would imply, Confucianism derives from the life, philosophy, and teaching of Confucius. Although Confucius and Confucianism originated in China, the religion has universal appeal. That is why it spread throughout East Asia and, to a certain, degree, into the western world. The basic premise of Confucianism seems more akin to traditional logic than any type of spiritual religion.(This is where it possesses many Page – 2 similarities to Buddhism) The central tenants of Confucianism stress the importance of educating the populace in order to create a moral order. From this moral order, a government will emerge that prescribes to logical, moral tenants. As a result, the government will seek to serve its people as opposed to ruling over them with an iron fist. This connects to the notion that a moral order breeds compassion. This ties into Confucius’ belief that relationships and ritual behavior were critical to maintaining societal order.Shintoism is quite removed from Confucianism and Buddhism in a number of ways. Shintoism is far more localized to Japan that the other two religions. Additionally, it is a religion that places great emphasis on the worship of spirits. This is far removed from the more secular approach of the other two religions. Shintoism seeks to create a harmony between humans and the natural world. So, in a way, it combines secular logic with the natural world and the corporal world of the spirits.Ultimately, the goal of Shinto is to follow the path of the Four Affirmations. These Four Affirmations involve combining adherence to tradition and family; the natural world; physical cleanliness; and the spirit. Through this, an attainment similar to Buddhist enlightenment might be acquired. Again, there are similarities and differences between all three religions. The main similarity would be the desire to attain a more perfect and moral life. That is a common thread that is quite valuable.

How Does Beowulf Help Us Understand the Characteristics

Beowulf helps us to understang the chrateristic of early medeval anglo saxon sociey especially the quality of a leader and how they gain respect. Bewoulf is a hero in this poem and has all the chracteristics for a anglo saxon society. He posess stength, bravness and belives that were all characteristics is anglo saxon socitey.Beowulf displays these virtues in his own actions and words during different circumstances throughout the poem. There are several heroic characteristics, all of which Beowulf possesses. First of these characteristics is honor. Honor is showing a sense of integrity in one’s actions. When Beowulf went to the land of the Danes to kill Grendel, he did it not because he wanted money, but because he wanted to help out the Geats. Beowulf felt as if it was the right thing to do since he had been successful in past deeds which he proudly says in lines 321-322, where he says â€Å"They had in remembrance my courage and might. Many had seen me come safe from the conflict,†. Beowulf expected no reward for his action, but rather just being able to â€Å"put another notch in his belt.† It also shows extreme loyalty to his king as he is face with death but does so anyway. Another heroic characteristic, which Beowulf possesses, is bravery. Bravery is being able to go against the odds and possibly risk your life in the process. An example of Beowulf showing bravery is when he goes to slay the dragon even though all his men abandon him. He realizes that the dragon is more powerful than he is, but he will still not back down. In line 1493, he says â€Å"Not one foot’s space will I flee from the monster,† thus showing his true bravery by not giving up to the more powerful foe. One more heroic characteristic of Beowulf is his strong sense of duty. This means that he is always devoted to his people, his king, and their security. An example of this is again when he goes to slay the dragon. He has no help, he realizes that the dragon is more powerful, and most importantly, he realizes that he will probably not be returning victorious from this battle. In other words, he will die. In lines 1470-1474, it says â€Å"Sad was his spirit, restless and ready, And the march of Fate immeasurably near; Fate that would strike, seek his soul’s treasure, And deal asunder the spirit and flesh. Not long was his life encased in the body!† This basically means that Fate was soon to run its course and he would loose his life in battle. He had to and did go along with this because he was the king and it was his responsibility to provide security for his people. Even though it was his responsibility, he didn’t have to do it; he could have run away like others may have. Overall, a hero is a person with distinguished qualities who goes against adversity to commit good deeds despite what could happen to them. A hero is a person who does things out of honor, bravery, and duty, not for rewards. Beowulf encompasses all of these qualities which you get to see is very important in anglo saxon socity.

Just follow the instuctions below Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Just follow the instuctions below - Essay Example However, the environmental impact, the melting of the arctic circle, the increase of greenhouse gasses in the atmosphere cannot be denied and the Vice President has helped to bring this issue to wide attention around the world. Power Steer - Michael Pollan Mr. Pollan decided to conduct some very up close and personal research regarding the care, feeding and eventual slaughter of cattle. He did this by purchasing an eight month old calf and besides his research also intended to hopefully sell him at a profit at the end. A he states, â€Å" I wanted to find out how a modern, industrial steak is produced in America these days, from insemination to slaughter.† (Pollan 1) The beginning was a bucolic environment for the steer, idling and eating in green pastures besides it mother as it weaned from milk to grasses. Then as it is introduced to commercial feed as well as the accelerated growth hormones, the calf matures quickly. Pollen gives and overview of the industry but also person alizes it by visits to #534 (his steer) at the Pokey Feedlots. These feedlots help to restrict the animal’s movements toughening the muscle. ... cientists call the planet's â€Å"primary productivity.† (Manning 37) One of the first primary concentrated sources of the energy is agriculture and the most predominant plants that have been cultivated are rice, wheat, and corn. This domestication of plants and the concentration of their energy wealth is an important concept for human survival on a grand scale, and it is based on the richness of the soil. The mineral energy in the soil is what translates into this abundant plant energy and must be conserved. AS usable land ran out, the 1960’s brought the green revolution to the land concentrating more energy in the soil by irrigation and chemical methods, tripling production of crops. Of course this all came at a greater cost in the increase use of machines and fuel to run them. He ends this article buy â€Å"voting twice† once at the polls and then voting to take his energy usage into his own hands by, â€Å"†¦which was to rack a shell and drop one cow el k, my household's annual protein supply.† (Manning 45) Ecological footprints and appropriated carrying capacity: what urban economics leaves out - William E. Rees This article explores the limit and fundamental flaw in human technology that it cannot override our natural situation as a biological entity. Rees review the flow of energy and materials throughout the natural as well as the political environments of the planet. One of the basic flaws here is that the economic environment is usually separated from the actual ecosystem surrounding it creating untenable methods of production. Conventional political models often do not take into account the invisible confections between cities and the resources that may be quite distant and in different political and biological environments. Rees advises that we rethink the

Business,society and policy Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Business,society and policy - Case Study Example This report is concerning the business perspective of Panther Sports, who have outsourced the soccer balls manufacturing in Pakistan, and are now faced with an ethical problem that is putting their sales, credibility and stronghold in the Asian sports market at jeopardy.Panther Sports, after a decline in its sales due to increasing economic pressure and limited manufacturing schemes, decided to follow the example of other companies in outsourcing the manufacturing market in the developing countries where labor intensive jobs are cheaply done. This would ensure that the product is made on the same quality and standards as those made through domestic manufacturing, but the cost of production would be considerably cut. Outsourcing in the Asian countries would also open the doors to Asian market to them where they had a good chance of developing their stronghold. Hence, they developed their soccer manufacturing market in Pakistan, and contracted with Faisal Sports in Sialkot. However, in this region, that is India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh, there have been extensive cases of child labor. Faisal Sports was discovered to be involved in this act, and so Panther Sports terminated its contract with this contractor. Given the nature and gravity of this illegal act, Panther Sports is at risk of losing its future consumers, and its hold in the Asian Market.... of Panther sports in this conflict, and recommendations can be given to solve this problem, the business perspective has to studied. This involves discussing the structure and infrastructure of multinational companies, their responsibilities and duties as set by many codes and instructions by authorities, the methods of their operations concerning outsourcing in other countries, a look at the stakeholders theory and the risks that Panther Sports runs. Business organizations and companies are viewed as independent entities and virtual citizens of a state. These organizations are held independent of their staff, and hence, the staff, on any level, will not be charged of any crime if the organization fails to fulfill its duties or violates any code of conduct. The organization itself will face the consequences, and the owners themselves will not be held responsible. Whereas the companies are not entitled to solve every problem faced by the communities in which they have their plants, they are demanded to make sure that any issues created as a direct or indirect influence of the company, whether primary or secondary, be solved by that company, and that their business procedures do not violate the norms of business ethics and the standard set regulations (Freeman 2002). When companies outsource their manufacturing business in other countries, they, though still holding the right to the name and label of the company, do not own the factories and industries locally set

ABA TIPS Article - Safety Misconduct Defenses Essay

ABA TIPS Article - Safety Misconduct Defenses - Essay Example te safety rules, provide safety training and devices, and in certain circumstances perform alcohol and drug testing as measures to safeguard employees from illnesses and injuries (Spurlock, 2012). Furthermore, in almost all cases, the employer must maintain and implement the said measures at their own expense. Statutorily, Kentucky as compared to Indiana and Tennessee provides the minimalistic amount of safety misconduct defense incentives in relation to employer safety rules. Workers compensation in the Kentucky statute provides for only a decrease in compensation benefits in regards to intentional failure to follow a safety rule of an employer (Spurlock, 2012). In addition, the statute also creates an affirmative defense regarding voluntary intoxication. Numerous employers have a simple safety rule that forbids horseplay. In Kentucky, it is not clear as to how horseplay receives treatment because, in several cases, injuries that involve horseplay are probably not considered to come out of the employment course, hence making horseplay act as a fully affirmative defense. Furthermore, the rules against horseplay have applied parallel consideration that have seen evaluation of the violation of non-horseplay safety rules is the history of the employers enforcing the rule of horseplay (Spurlock, 2012). Statutorily, the workers compensation of Indiana provides for an affirmative defense, barring compensation for all forms of safety misconducts (Spurlock, 2012). In addition, the statute of Indiana provides for full affirmative defense for failing to obey a safety rule or usage of a safety appliance. Regarded as a minority state in providing workers’ compensation of misconduct affirmative defense (Spurlock, 2012). Tennessee’s statute also provides for full affirmative defenses particularly in regards to illegal drug use or intoxication and refusal or failure in using a safety device. In summary, even though they act as a full defense or simply decrease benefits,

Self Evaluation Personal Statement Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Self Evaluation - Personal Statement Example Moreover, daily newspapers and magazines contain news and articles about people from all over the world indicating people’s culture across the globe. Internet Internet is the best and fastest source of any type of information across the globe. Just a single query in search engines can give you an insight into any type of culture in a few seconds. Satellite Channels Satellite channels all over the world can be seen in one country. Dramas, cooking show, news channels, and documentary programs on channels such as national geographic, animal planet, discovery etc. help you increase your cultural knowledge. People Interaction The more you interact with people of different cultures, the more knowledge you gain about their traditions, religious activities, habits, language etc. Whether you are living with them or working with people of diverse cultures, you gain sufficient information about their culture with the passage of time. 2. How would you handle a management issue in your   organization that stems from a cultural dispute? As the time is moving towards making this place a global village, people from third world countries are moving towards progressed countries in search of a better job and better future. This results not only in providing sufficient workforce to such countries but also results in the formation of organizations with people belonging to different cultures and traditions. To manage the workforce in such an organization is a very challenging task as it requires you to get sufficient information about all people’s cultures and traditions. If a management issue arises in an organization because of the cultural differences, it should be handled carefully. Whenever a worker joins the company, he should be informed about the general rules and policies of the company. Moreover, the manager should have knowledge about the person’s culture that would help deal with him in the future. Now whenever a problem arises due to cultural dispu te, the manager should first analyze that he should provide the solution that does not conflict with the company’s policies. For example, if a company has a certain policy for giving no more than a one day leave near the project’s deadline then the manager cannot give an employee more than one holiday. The manager should find out a solution that is based on justice. He should consider cultures of both parties and take their opinions separately. In the end, he should design a solution that is a medium way between the both party’s opinions and should be justified. 3. Should the same rules and policies apply the same to  all people in a multinational, or should culture be taken into account when applying policies? The differences in the backgrounds can be problematic if you completely ignore people’s cultural values and traditions. Now the question arises whether the same policies should be applied to all people or should cultural diversity be taken into c onsideration? The answer is to choose the medium way. As far as performance and work is concerned, same policies should be designed for everyone. For example, dishonesty or shirking from work will result in punishment from the company’s side to every worker. Also, same rules of yearly leave will be applied to everyone. However, cultural differen

Of the emergency room patient population, are visits negatively Research Paper

Of the emergency room patient population, are visits negatively impacted due to extended wait times, nursing staff shortages, an - Research Paper Example The issue under consideration was to investigate the impact of wait times on the emergency room population. The research aimed to investigate the impact of waiting time on the emergency department patients in St Barnabas Hospital. The comparison was the availability of timely and effective service in the emergency department. The outcome of the research was that the conditions of patients who were kept waiting for long worsened. The research was carried out in a timeframe of one month in October 2007. The research of Munro et al (2007) was also considered in analyzing the research question. Munro et al (2007) conducted a research to investigate effective measures of reducing emergency departments’ waiting times and the impact of the reduction of waiting time. The population of the study was medical professionals that worked in emergency departments in England. The issue that was investigated by the researchers was to determine the measures that the emergency centers had put in place during the national monitoring week. The researchers were also interested in determining which of the measures were effective. It should be noted that the issue of long waiting times in hospitals in the area had become of major concern. The comparison was between the changes in waiting time during normal operations of the emergency departments and during the national monitoring week. ... The third research that was analyzed in relation to the research problem was by Cimona (2010). The research was conducted at the Saint Rita’s Hospital in South Africa. The emergency department in this hospital catered for both casualty and medical emergencies. The study population was all patients who attended the emergency department in the hospital. On average, there were 120 patients per day and over the entire study period a total of 2,400 patients attended the hospital for the period of the study. A random sample of 30 patients were used for the study every day form Monday to Friday during the month of July 2010. The outcome of this research was that longer waiting time meant that patients suffered more sometimes leading to preventable deaths. For instance, a patient with severe injuries suffers more when he or she has to wait for extended periods before receiving the service of a doctor. The outcome of the study was that patient waiting time was affected by availability of emergency beds, number of nurses and general laxity in service provision. Thus, the number of available staff and their work ethic had an impact on the quality of service that emergency room patients could receive. The fourth research considered was a study by Arkun et al (2010). The study was conducted on a sample population of 1,543 patients in the emergency department at an urban Level II Trauma center. In this research, the comparison was between the door-to-doctor periods in the emergency department in relation to the level of satisfaction of the clients. The outcome of the study of the 1,543 patients was that the average wait time to see a doctor was 1.8 hours. Also, the average dwell time for the patients was obtained as 5.5 hours. Patients who

The origins of jazz Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

The origins of jazz - Essay Example Where did it begin? What makes it distinct as a musical style? Most people equate jazz with the early to mid 20th century. However, many music historians today believe that the earliest seeds were planted in the United States as far back as 1819, when African-American slaves were performing public African tribal dances and playing string and percussion instruments, the sounds of which would be hinted at later in the jazz music to come.(Gioia 1) That said, it validates the ideals that jazz has strong and deep connections to African sounds and musical influence that contribute incredibly to the art form known as â€Å"jazz.† Historically, the â€Å"Original Dixieland Jass Band,† is credited with the first â€Å"jazz† recording intended for distribution. However, many experts believe that the band was a â€Å"copycat† group and not one of the true â€Å"pioneers† of the jazz genre; but the recordings popularity gave the music exposure all over the country.(Parker) The jazz that the public is most familiar with wa s that which was born and cultivated in New Orleans, Louisiana, when great performers, like King Oliver, a cornet player, began entertaining in the early 1900s. The sound was, also, gaining even greater exposure and popularity because many jazz bands traveled as the onboard entertainment on passenger river-boats. By the 1920’s jazz began evolving towards the big band formats, which allowed for different influences from blues, ragtime, African American spirituals, and European music.(Parker) In the 1930s and 1940s the jazz epicenter had become New York City, particularly the clubs of Harlem being the most popular. Jazz as a musical movement was born in the south, then grew and evolved as it migrated to the east, and has maintained itself as one of the most beloved musical forms across the country and throughout the world. Musically, many historians explain that there are specific elements that are expressed that are unique to jazz music. The

Assumptions of Human Behavior Personal Statement

Assumptions of Human Behavior - Personal Statement Example Her way of writing the letters, as emails and chats were not so prevalent few years back, was so charming that I had assumed her as the most beautiful girl on the earth. We finally fixed up a meeting and to my utter disappointment she was much older and totally devoid of the glamour I had attached to her in my conception. May be those were the fancies of a teenager about an unseen person but later I came across many similarly shocking revelations. For example as a student I had developed high regard for our literature teacher. She had a very calm, composed and elegant personality and I had her image in my mind as a person full of compassion. Once I saw her in the market place, shouting on top of her voice over some trivial matter. I felt as if she was hammering upon the beautiful image I had carved out for her in my heart. Human nature always keeps startling us in various ways. Many a times these revelations come to us after long associations. For instance, an elderly lady who was my business associate had taken great liking for me. Although we did business together, she treated me as her son. We had long conversations and she made me feel like her most precious associations. She confided in me about each and every matter including her souring relationship with her own children. She often told me how inconsiderate they had become towards her. She also appreciated my cordial relations with everyone around me and many a times even pleaded me to tell her how she can improve her relations with her family. Although I was much younger to her, she looked forward to my advice on all matters. One day I succumbed to her pleadings and made the mistake of telling her how she could improve her behavior. To my utter amazement, she turned around just like the ugly frog turning into a beautiful prince. This time it was the other way round. It was the beautiful prince or princess turning into an ugly frog. Her honey dipped tongue suddenly started shooting poison arrows at me. And in fraction of a second I was not only thrown down from the cloud nine where she had placed me but was trampled upon with demeaning expletives. This experience and many other experiences prove that human nature is totally unpredictable and it is very difficult to assume human behavior and reactions. At the same time, we still keep building a mental image of a person based on certain behavior portrayed by him or her. May be this is Nature's way of keeping the human race alive because in absence of any kind of expectation, we will lose interest in life. We have to accept such behavior as part of life. Even tiny creatures like birds show dedicated affection for their young ones who fly out of the nest as soon as they learn how to fly. The parent birds do not spend rest of their life shedding tears over this. They move on. We human beings are larger than those birds and that is why our behavior also has more amplified aspects and our reactions are even more amplified. This may be a natural trait but we can improve upon it with some acquired behavior just like we have acquired behavior in dressing, cooking and eating. We can learn to be mentally prepared for facing sudden change in people's behavior and not be so shocked. It is not an easy task just like learning to walk is not an easy task for a baby, just like tying shoelaces is not an easy task for a child. But they all learn it. We all can also learn that human

Can Orton and Ravenhilll be described as radical queers Essay

Can Orton and Ravenhilll be described as radical queers - Essay Example Still, there was a contention that Orton somehow managed to contribute to the movement for gay rights.4 Mark Ravenhill who was openly gay and forthright about being HIV positive weaved together plays that waged an assault on social structures and arguably advocated for social change for the oppressed including gays.5 This essay argues that both Ravenhill and Orton are properly characterized as radical gays. In order to demonstrate queer radicalism on the part of Orton and Ravenhill, this essay conducts an analysis of some of their plays that substantiate this claim. This essay is therefore divided into two parts. The first part of this essay analyses some of Orton’s plays as a means of demonstrating that he can be properly characterized as a radical queer. The second part of this essay also analysed some of Ravenhill’s plays as a means of demonstrating that Ravenhill was also a radical queer. Nakayama argues that Orton’s plays were self-conscious creations of an alternative to the standard heterosexual society and in particular the â€Å"bourgeois norm of the nuclear family† as opposed to a â€Å"neurotic repetition of it†.6 Regardless there are two perspectives relative to whether or not Orton was indeed a queer radical. One perspective argues that Orton given the times in which Orton wrote, his plays indicate that he was â€Å"an advance guard of† the sexual revolution and a â€Å"sort of fifth columnist among sexual conservatives†.7 That some of Orton’s plays such as What the Butler Saw focused so sharply on clandestine sexuality that it was obvious that Orton was content to â€Å"remain in the closet without directly confronting the sexual powers that were†.8 The criticisms of What the Butler Saw arise out of what Orton failed to do rather than what he actually did in the play. Butler was written in 1967 before theatre censorship had come to an end. However, since

Providing Safety Measures within Schools Essay Example for Free

Providing Safety Measures within Schools Essay School violence is not just a recent tragedy. In fact, the earliest known United States (U. S. ) school shooting called â€Å"Pontiac’s Rebellion School Massacre† took place on July 26, 1764 in Pennsylvania (Wikipedia). These ill-fated events are products of many different factors such as bullying, revenge, and even mental issues. Unfortunately, school violence has become a more prevalent occurrence in society today. However, because of the unknown and rather unexpected motives of the perpetrators, an end to school violence cannot, in all actuality, happen. Certainly, there are procedures available to prevent occurring violence. Through the use of increased screening and safety measures, school violence can be greatly diminished, improve the quality of the nation’s education, and restore faith in administrators. School violence has plagued many areas of not only the U. S. , but also other parts of the world. However, a number of the worst attacks have occurred right here in the U. S. , Columbine High School, for example. April 20, 1999 marked the date of fifteen deaths at Columbine High School in Littleton, Colorado. Two teenage shooters took the lives of fourteen students and one teacher (Listverse). This school tragedy led to an increased emphasis on security at schools across the U. S. (SFGate). The April 16, 2007 shooting at Virginia Tech claimed the lives of thirty-three victims and was named the deadliest shooting by a single gunman in U. S. history. Bath School in Michigan fell victim to forty-five deaths and was given the title of the deadliest mass school murder in U. S. history (Listverse). In recent history, Connecticut unfortunately experienced a shooting of its own at Sandy Hook Elementary where twenty-eight young children and adults were victim to a deranged gunman on December 14, 2012 (The Inquisitr). But certainly, we cannot forget the February 27, 2012 shooting at Chardon High School that rocked Ohio (SFGate). More and more schools around the nation are stepping up school safety measures to ensure the security of students. Undoubtedly, the most commonly selected safety measure is limited or controlled access to the school in such ways as to lock and monitor school doors. Metal detectors, security cameras, and limited social networking access are more commonly being used to monitor and restrict student and visitor behaviors (U. S. Department of Education). Monitoring and supervising common areas such as the cafeteria, gym, hallways, and parking lot is a significant safety measure usually practiced by schools (NASPonline). School resource officers, guards, and unarmed law enforcement officers may not always need to be present, but should always be available. Staff members should monitor all guests by greeting each and every person who comes to the door. Counselors and psychologists should always be available to students so that they know they have someone to trust and be able to anonymously report suspicious activity (Gumbrecht; NASPonline). Crisis plans and preparedness training should be accessible for all staff members along with threat assessment procedures. The promotion of obedience of school rules and a safe school environment should be present at all times for the safety of the students (NASPonline). Schools should conduct regular drills such as intruder, weather, and fire for student awareness (Gumbrecht). A responsible and safe school always includes school-community partnerships and school safety incident data to keep the public informed about new procedures (NASPonline). There are a number of structural prevention suggestions available. The most frequently used structural methods are locked doors and security systems. However, more advanced structural preventions exist: single, prominent entryways for guests and students to enter; reduced landscaping to eliminate hiding spots; shifted restrooms away from entryways; moved major mechanical and electrical systems; keyless entry systems for staff and faculty; and elaborate announcement systems for drills and instructions (Gumbrecht). Panic buttons are available for $5,000 and operate on single police dispatch lines that send all available units to the school in case of an emergency. The buttons can be located in each individual classroom or in different regions of the schools. These structural suggestions come at a price but are well worth the investments (Scott). Because of the seemingly reoccurring school violence trend, many school districts have contemplated active shooter training and arming teachers. Even though this might seem like a good idea, there may very well be negative consequences. Instead, most school administrators opt for the more common school entry policies and emergency manuals for all staff. Newer safety ideas are being introduced into school districts such as Mohawk, Ellwood, and Shenango in Pennsylvania. These districts installed computerized systems that scan the driver’s licenses of all visitors to identify anyone convicted of crimes against children (New Castle News). Administrators have many accessible guidelines for communicating with students, their parents, and the public. Conversations with students should be developmentally appropriate and include guidelines for violence. Administrators should keep in mind the cultures, traditions, religion, and family values of students and keep the focus on normal routines and activities. Parents should be made aware of all violence conversations with students. The children must know that schools are safe places and there is a difference between reporting and tattling, they must be observant and report what they see. Students must also realize that every so often, people commit wrong acts, but violence is never a solution. Open communication between parents and their children is key; the students should know to stay away from weapons. Also, the school staff must stress the understanding of possibility versus probability; students should always know that they are safe in school. These guidelines are important for administrators to convey to their student body and public (NASPonline). Without a doubt, school violence has made national headlines. In December, the NRA announced the National School Shield Program. They have issued â€Å"a report on how they believe schools can prevent further gun violence† (Gumbrecht). The NRA will present policy proposals and resources to law enforcement, lawmakers, school officials, and the public. Because there is declining support for strict gun regulations, law enforcement officials will prepare armed guards that state and local officials will alter (Sperry and Wallace). A higher percent of high schools and middle schools require drug testing for athletes and extracurricular activities; badges and picture identifications for students and teachers; random dog sniffs and contraband sweeps; and security cameras for monitoring the school building and surrounding premises. 84 percent of high schools, 73 percent of middle schools, and 51 percent of elementary schools use security cameras for surveillance. A higher percent of high schools and middle schools have electronic emergency notification systems and structured, anonymous threat reporting systems. A lower percent of high schools control access to buildings during school hours, prohibit cell phone usage and text messaging, and require uniforms (U. S. Department of Education). Unfortunately, school violence is on the rise. Children should not have to be afraid to go to school in fear of experiencing a fateful attack. By no means can there ever be assumptions made that attacks cannot happen just anywhere; no area is completely immune to violence. The public cannot be naive. As much as the thought of an attack is hard to comprehend, the possibility must always be in the back of the mind. There are countless ways to be prepared; school administrators just need to take action. Through the use of increased screening and safety measures, school violence can be greatly diminished, improve the quality of the nation’s education, and restore faith in administrators

Health Disparities in African Americans

Health Disparities in African Americans Despite the continuous improvement and attention to the entire health of Americans, the African Americans are prone to more chronic health problem as compared to other races. The disparities are multi-variant and are contributed by numerous issues such as the social, economic status and the lifestyle behaviors. The heart and cancer disease are the major leading causes of death among the African Americans aged from 18years as per the 2002 census. In 2009, health expenditure of USA reached $2.5 trillion, but despite the tremendous increase, there exists a disproportionate health condition that is defined according to ethnic and racial lines. Though the causes related to disparities in health are diverse, it remains significant to understand the part played by the social-economic status in the health of an individual. People experiencing low economic status can be characterized by poor sanitation, poor housing, poor working conditions and unbearable social environment (Airhihenbuwa and Liburd 3). Moreover, issues of inadequate health care resources and poor health care system, accessibility that impact the health directly or indirectly are evidenced in communities where economic instability exists. Among the African Americans, the effects of poor economic status are pronounced with mortality and morbidity remaining high in America. The African Americans have the highest level of obesity in America with 58% of the men and 59% of the women being either overweight or obese. An overweight person is a 2-6 time likely to experience high blood pressure as compared to normal weight. This can be substantiated by the continuous increase of African American suffering from health problems related to obesity, such as hypertension, high cholesterol, and stroke among other problems. As per the American Heart Association, cardiovascular disease ranked as number one in killing the African American as compared to the other races as a result of their lifestyle and the poor economic status that subject them to poor health conditions. It is documented that 36% of the African American deaths are caused by cardiovascular disease which is more than 290000 people who die each year (BRANNON 214). The smoking behavior among the African American is high as compared to other races living in America and is associated with an increase of dis ease manifestation since it raises the blood pressure overworking the heart as it tries to maintain the blood flow. The culture of African American also facilitates to health disparities among the races (Braithwaite, Austin and Taylor ). The tradition of the African American revolves around the family, interacting and sharing, which mainly centered on foods that have high levels of fat, calories and thus these people are less concerned about health consequences. Intervention plan The intervention purpose to reduce the racial and ethnic disparities that exist in health among the Americans. The disparity in America has been extensively documented, and thus an intervention program is needed to reduce it, ranging from quality of care, language difficulties, and accessibility to health care and the insurance cover. The intervention plan revolves around a program designed to enhance equity as well as compelling the government to assess on policies that uphold health equity among the Americans. Equity, according to the Institute of Medicine is one of the major fundamental realms towards high-quality care. The plan purposes to encourage an integrated approach that is evidence based and adopt practices that can reduce the existing disparities. The plan aims to transform the health care in America and can be accomplished through the government focusing on the equitable distribution of healthcare amenities in all regions to ease the accessibility that has resulted to increased disparities. The effectiveness of pay for performance strategy need to be evaluated to ascertain the best mechanism to be adopted to enhance effective services. In terms of increasing the efficiency and accountability, the plan reflects on the well-being of the people. The economic status subject people in different classes and the disadvantaged people economically face the challenge of accessing the best health care services and thus a health insurance that is standardized need to be implemented to ensure the health care professional equality treats the patients. Sensitize the people on the importance of upholding various issues to ensure disparities in health is reduced. For instance, the African American need to understand their culture facilitate to disparities realized in America (Airhihenbuwa and Liburd). Through sensitizing on the importance of creating a culture of equity through ensuring the people understand disparities are problems and that they exist among themselves through their patients and thus a need for responsibility is required to address the issue as a way of accomplishing health equality in America. In advancing the health, safety and the wellbeing of the Americans, the plan reflects on the impact of the lifestyle adopted by the people facilitates the disparities in health care. America has different races with African American culture identified as vulnerable to attract numerous health issues. In this consideration, an awareness initiative to uphold activities towards better health services and low level of diseases need to be put in place. Initiating a system that facilitates a collaboration of all stakeholders to warrant an efficient system that will reduce the gap existing among the people as a result of cultures can be managed with a program focusing on equality among the American people. The importance of radical science and innovation is key considering the diseases that are causing increased mortality, and thus in terms of reducing the disparity, the plan encourage innovative mechanism to be adopted to ensure the treatment is available. This can be accomplished through strengthening the American health human resources and infrastructures. Awareness of the factors that influence the eating style in terms of how much and what an individual eats can assist in making the appropriate eating choices. In America food is adequate and this poses options of something to eat especially unhealthy eating. In my nutrition plan, the issue of routine remains a priority to ensure people, upholds balanced meal while the children learn the cultural and social skills (Braithwaite, Austin and Taylor ). Highlighting of unhealthy food and discouraging them and encouraging the consumptions of fruits and vegetables. Nutrition plan Ensure your daily meal upholds balance diet. On this part avoid pre-packaged, frozen, microwavable and any other unhealthy food. Timing is a key factor that needs to be observed on issues of food to avoid eating many times in a day. Take one breakfast, lunch and supper and a snack in a day and uphold this diet. For breakfast, you need to take a strong one to have the energy for the day and should be nutritious and uphold balanced diet. Lunch should uphold balanced diet and adequate as well as dinner with avoidance of snacks and unhealthy eating prevailing. Benefits of physical activities As reflected above the African American have problems with weight with a big percentage suffering from obesity. Obesity and overweight lead to energy imbalance where people consume more calories as compared to those being burnt. The calories burnt are determined by many factors such as age, gender, and body size among others, but the activities performed is the most variable factor. Activities can assist people to maintain weight, lose weight and keep it lowered the risk of heart diseases, hypertension, stroke, diabetes among others. Adopting this strategy among the African American community the level of health issues and the mortality rate will reduce significantly. To implement the strategy in an effective way can be through sensitizing the people through the available media sources on the importance of physical activities. Through this mechanism, adopting a foundation that aims at enlightening the African American on the importance of checking the weight and assisting them in various ways to activities they can engage into work on their body weight. Though the foundation might not reach every person, but the sensitization remains the key factor to manage body weight and other lifestyle activities that subject them to continuing health problems (Jackson 4). The issue of inadequate knowledge of the measures that can be upheld to enable an individual to overcome issues of obesity, overweight, hypertension and heart diseases that are heavily associated with the mortality of the African American and the entire pop ulation of America. The economic stability of African Americans is way down as compared to other races in the country, and thus the issue, taking precautions remain a vital issue, and a foundation can be in a position to facilitate accomplishment of this issue. The foundation is in a position to raise enough money that is required to enable the mobilization and sensitization of the people on the importance of clean environment. Cleanliness reduces the transmission of diseases, and thus, despite the few health amenities in this area, knowledge remain a substantial among the people to prevent themselves from diseases. The education will also involve the significance of balanced diet and observe the mode of feeding as a way to reduce health problems. The inadequate knowledge on the best diet to control the increasing of calories and cholesterols in the body requires this program to enlighten people on the best way to balance the physical activities and the calories taken. The foundation also understands th e gap that exists on the issue of understanding how insurance works and the importance of being insured either by the government or a private insurance company. Through the foundation that specifically focus on bettering and enlightening the people in the various ways, they can naturally avoid health issue could highly reduce the health problems aiming the African American community as well as the other communities in America. Conclusion Disparities in health care in America are relevant and requires substantial policies to reduce or even equate every person in the country. As reflected in the paper the African American are disadvantaged in various ways subjecting them to poor health care. However, the adoption of the right programs, equality, and health care services that fit all American can be attained. Airhihenbuwa, Collins O., and Leandris Liburd. Eliminating Health Disparities in the African American Population: The Interface of Culture, Gender, and Power. Health Education Behavior (2006): 3-14. Braithwaite, Ronald L, John N Austin and Sandra E Taylor . Health issues in the black community. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass, 2013. BRANNON, LINDA. Health Psychology: An Introduction to Behavior and Health. Belmont: CENGAGE LEARNING, 2017. Jackson, Allen W. Physical Activity for Health and Fitness. Leeds : Human Kinetics, 2004.

Evaluating The Role And Importance Of Entrepreneurship Commerce Essay

Evaluating The Role And Importance Of Entrepreneurship Commerce Essay Historically, entrepreneurship has been defined as different ways of resource allocation and optimization of organizational processes, always in a creative way in order to lower costs and improve results. Biased, is associated with the term of entrepreneurship to create new businesses, generally small and micro enterprises. Besides that entrepreneurship is linked to risk taking. In Druckers (1986), the entrepreneurial profile involves characteristics as: the search for change, the vision of opportunity, creativity, innovation and acceptance of risks and uncertainties related to business. The association between entrepreneurship and risk tolerance is usually routine. Generally, it is customary to assume that entrepreneurs are more risk tolerant. This was the purpose of analysis in this study, which study the association between level of entrepreneurship of an individual and their level of risk tolerance. This article explores the association between two variables, presented as the level of entrepreneurship of an individual, their level of risk tolerance and risk taking. Defining Entrepreneurship Characteristics or traits According to Drucker, P. (1986 pp. 131) argue that the definition of entrepreneurship in recent years see changes suffered by influences from areas as anthropology, sociology and business strategies to present their theories and assist the creation of new entrepreneurs. The idea and principle that the entrepreneurship process begins in institutions with social and cultural implications. The big question about entrepreneurship is linked in the risk that the entrepreneur runs to develop and implement a new business. There is a correlation in entrepreneurship and the theory of prospect, which deals with behaviour and relation to risk, it is the entrepreneur willing to take financial risk, strategic and operational levels to develop a new business. The issue of entrepreneurship in making decisions in relation to risk was the subject of research by Daniel Kahneman and Amos Tversky, whose results were known by researchers as Prospect Theory. The early study was due to the fact that entrepreneurs behave or have an average performance in accordance with the standard of the average return. The experiments have revealed patterns of behaviour determined by two major human shortcomings: the emotion that inhibits or restricts the self-control essential to the process of decision making, and cognitive difficulties that hinder the full understanding of the problem faced, particularly given the difficult to draw valid generalizations of samples available, which leads to the adoption of more subjective methods, known as degrees of belief. According to Schumpeter, J. (1987) agrees that every entrepreneur has a profile of innovative capacity and acceptance of risk, and also that not all outcomes are successful, and the entrepreneurial function has the responsibility of the relationships between the business and cultural factors that are present in organization. Entrepreneurial culture Burns, P. (2007) reports that since the beginning of the era of entrepreneurship was hoped that the cultural context had a substantial impact on the development of entrepreneurship. The tendency for entrepreneurship differs among societies, because that culture moderates the characteristics of entrepreneurs differ from place to place. As the understanding Burns, P (2007), human beings are not born an entrepreneur, he develops this trait in the environment they live and the environment, both the time and the place is a positive or negative influence of this trend. The entrepreneurial culture is based on the concentration of various forms of entrepreneurship, necessary for the determination of this culture. In the view of Kent, C. (1990), there are several initiatives and forms of entrepreneurship as the entrepreneurial profile, the entrepreneurial management, intrapreneurship, entrepreneurship collective, according to this author, there are entrepreneurial culture requires at least two of these forms. he entrepreneurial culture emphasizes the emergence of new opportunities, the means to capitalize on them and the creation of adequate infrastructure to take advantage of them. The strategy and planning are the foundations of entrepreneurial culture, to reduce uncertainties in the business opportunities, which is consistent with the attitude of the entrepreneur always calculate the risk of premeditated manner. In this sense, one can establish that Entrepreneurship Education is the process that aims at human development in the context of identifying and exploiting opportunities and their subsequent transformation into reality, thus contributing to the generation of financial values, social and cultural society in which the human being is. Through planning and developing strategies and risk measurement and goals. process of entrepreneurship Each entrepreneurial mission is different, some endeavour had success history and other did not. The entrepreneurship venture are the consequence that victory history in entrepreneur way. Nevertheless, the entrepreneurship process should be analyse an global way, since the provides a contents for analyse how entrepreneurship invents new ideas and new ways to provide opportunities and ventures. Furthermore, the procedure of entrepreneurship gives knowledge to mapping and to analyse the innovative actions. According to Wickham, P. ( 2006, pp. 223) affirms that the approach to the entrepreneurial procedure that will be described here is based on four interacting contingencies. The business person is responsible to bring these factors together to create innovation value. The four contingencies factors in the entrepreneurship process are, entrepreneur, opportunity, organisation and resources. Source: Wickham, P. (2006, pp.224): The entrepreneurial process: opportunity, resources and organisation. entrepreneur According to Wickham, P. ( 2006, pp. 209) success is based on the ventures ability to satisfy economic, social and developmental needs. In other words, the entrepreneurial success is consequence of set characteristics of personal skills, knowledge, perception and personality traits that lead to analyse and evaluate the entrepreneurial success. The entrepreneur is a business man who is responsible of entrepreneurial process, in other words, he is charge to manage and lead the organisation objectives. Entrepreneurs are not only those who have ideas, create new products or processes. They are also those who implement, lead teams and sell their ideas. It is difficult to find all these characteristics in one person. Therefore, the identification of each profile is the key, and teamwork can be critical to the success of entrepreneurs within an organization. For example, Steve Jobs is the co-founder of Apple, Pixars former owner and creator of the hottest gadgets of the last 10 years is not only a businessman, but it is undoubtedly one of the most visionary and courageous entrepreneurs who appeared in the business world in recent decades. Opportunity The opportunity is the gap in the market that should be occupied by competitors or suppliers. The opportunity aims the space on the sector or environment market that should be met by entrepreneurs. The main objective of entrepreneur is to scan and observe the available or potential opportunity in the market. The best scenario of achieve the opportunity is the innovation approach that the business man shows to the market. Organisation Searching to serve the innovation to the environment competitive the functions and activities of the employees should be coordinated, this is the propose of the company should deliver. The companies can be changed according the actions and strategies, like, their size, their structure, their research and development area, the core business and culture aspects. According to Wickham, P. (2006, pp 224) agrees that entrepreneurial companies are characterised by leadership, style, behaviour and spirit from their founder. This organisations may have unstructured hierarchy, rules or process, on the other hand this factor can be a strength in the learning process, innovation and development by being active to bring new ideas and approaches to organisation change. In addition, entrepreneurial companies are been set as a network of relationships between employees, suppliers and others stakeholders which are led by the entrepreneur. These relationship connections build a formal and mixed organisation. Some relations are classified by contracts, open markets, formal, informal and long term. In the network study, the company is defined by a nexus of relationships and the level can be complex. This relation provides to the organisations a good opportunity to analyse how they are positioned in the market. Resources The last term in the entrepreneurial process is the resources. This contingency aims to raise capital and resource that is capitalised in the company, such as investors who sponsor their capital, information, skills, know-how, experience and knowledge. This elements that lead to growth can be intangible property, like, consulting, brand, loyalty and customer goodwill can be lead to investment. The main objective of the entrepreneur is to raise capital and investment to the company and focus the investment to increase, build and develop the value proposition deliver to the customer. According to Burns, P. (2007, pp.117) commented that entrepreneurs typically identify opportunity, building and leading the company. Furthermore, entrepreneur attract and mange resources. The entrepreneurs must deliver responsibilities to the employees and the managers may take over the function to manage and bring resources. For example, the production department may take over the functions to attract resources and innovation to develop new products; the sales department may take over the responsibility to bring opportunities on the market. In the way, the entrepreneur becomes business facilitator, advisor and leader of the business. According to Wickham, P. (2006) agrees that there are three main resources avalible to the entrepreneur, such as financial resources, human resources and operating resources. FINANCIAL RESOURCES The financial resource is the source that the entrepreneur raises capital to invest the company. Money is the most common form of the financial resource and can be used to buy other resources. Financial resources are the source for the entrepreneur to invest more money in the organization. The entrepreneur must find a balance between financial gain and also the companys performance and flexibility of resource use. The financial resources that the entrepreneur has access varies according to sector, scenario and strategy also adopted by the organization. HUMAN RESOURCES Human resources are critical success factors in a entrepreneurship venture. They can bring innovation, experience and make up the company. Furthermore, the human resources can provide advantage competitive to the organisation. The employees who make up in the venture offer their labour towards the entrepreneur. OPERATING RESOURCES Operating resources are the materials which contribute and are used by the organisation to deliver and offer outputs to the business environment. The main function of operational resources aims the capacity of the organisation deliver its innovation to the market. Risk and taking decisions According to Knight F. (2002), affirms that uncertainty occurs when the investors are not able to analyse and measure the possibilities and probabilities of different results. The same author agrees that risk is a consequence of the free and conscious decision to expose himself to a situation in which the struggle for the realization of the good with the possibility of injury or loss. According to Knight, F. (2002) states that the prospect of failure and taken as the meaning of risk. And that risk is present in any entrepreneurial process, besides being an inherent situation of decision-making. Furthermore, the risk can be controlled and measured, unlike other elements, such as external factors, environmental and political. The same author defines distinction between risk (when the probability of a result can be given calculated [or is known]) and uncertainty (when the probability Ccan not be determined [or unknown]). This thesis made the insurance industry attractive, and entrepreneurship, in Knights words, tragic. According to Knight, F. (2002) says that every organization faces risk, regardless of size, industry, parents and strategy. And that is not calculated risks may cause loss of investment opportunity, loss of brand image, prejudice and even financial risk of its existence. Analyse and understand the risks that the company may face and essential for growth and development objectives and strategy, moreover, the risk monitoring helps protect your investment. There are four types of business risk, are strategic risk, operational, financial and transfer. Strategic Risk Strategic risk and the most complex type of risk that an organization can face. Strategic risks can be controlled and directed according to the market, competitors, external changes and launch new innovative products that can change the configuration of market competition. Organizations also face strategic risks when considering performance challenges that are outside its control, such as climatic variables, the other environmental factors that provide benefit to the competition. Companies that succeed in having the best ratings and control of strategic risks can identify the greatest threats to their business and financial objectives and therefore assess and identify possible solutions. Operational Risk Operational risks are also important for the performance of the company as it affects the performance and operation of the company. Operational risk can be considered as the risk of loss of processes, people, systems or errors that hurt the performance of the organization. Operational risks as is the case of failures in IT systems, equipment, supply outages and fraudulent behaviour, may have a strong impact on business continuity. The evaluation of operational risk assessment beyond the operational errors, fraud and probability not meet any companys contract. An example of risk-taking operating a new business, customers are increasingly sensitive to quality service delivery. Thus, the entrepreneurship should consider operational risk to maintain service delivery. Financial Risk The financial risk and the risk that consumers do not understand liquidity necessary to meet the expenses and liabilities of the company. Financial risk means the risk of a possible future change in one or more interest rates, prices of financial instruments, commodity prices, exchange rates, indices of prices or rates, credit rating or credit index or other variable, provided that in the case of a non-financial variable, the variable is not specific to one part of the contract. Transfer Risk Risk transfer involves the use of an entity that accepts bear the risks. Risk transfer involves the use of an entity that accepts responsibility for supporting economic damage from a hazard. in exchange for a premium. The insurance came from the need of economic security through a transfer position for someone else, the risks that could affect the assets of individuals, families or a particular community. In a new enterprise making process of risk can lead to transfer of risk by the entrepreneur if the entrepreneur seeks to dilute the risks of the investment, but the transfer of risk generates an additional cost in developing the business. Such as the entrepreneur uses a purchasing insurance coverage or issuing debt. Decisions under certainly The decisions under certainty, occurs when the actual result is always the expected result, for example an entrepreneur seeking an investment that has high chances of success. In this scenario the developer simply chooses the action that will give higher returns and profitability, and the return will be definitely achieved. Within the business world, the decisions under certainty are rare, because currently no investor takes a decision with certainty that it will be successful, there will always be some uncertainty and risk. Decisions under uncertanily Knight F. (2002) argues that uncertainty should be taken as radically distinct from the familiar notion of risk, which have never been properly separated. The term risk is related to a quantity susceptible of measurement, the risk appears as measurable uncertainty, which is different from something not measurable, a fact of uncertainty. The definition of uncertainty used here is not derived from ergot perspective of the world presented by Knight and Keynes at the beginning of last century and is understood as a perceptual phenomenon described as the individual and the perceived ability to predict the occurrence of future events from the study of past events. Decisions under uncertainty, in fact despite the use of the word risk in risk decisions are rare in organizational settings. Why, for instance an entrepreneur can know what may happen, but it can hardly know what may happen in a competitive environment such as the launch of a product or a competitors new strategy. The decisions under uncertainty should seek to maximize returns and reduce risks and losses. Decisions under risk According to Knight, F. (2002) states that every action may involve a series of possible outcomes, each of which may occur as a known probability. In other words, the decision under risk occur on facts that are known but not known whether that will happen. The only thing you can know about the decision under risk and probability of occurrence of the event, and the risk is present only if this probability and known. As an example, the launch of a product can have according to the probability 50% market share in a year. The decision for the entrepreneur will be in or not to launch the product in accordance with the probability study. decisions under ambiguity Decisions on an ambiguous action can be assessed by the manager of consequences that will have if a product is launched. That his trial by the entrepreneur will be made à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â‚¬ ¹Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â‚¬ ¹according to the knowledge market and how the competitors and the market were in the past. The decision on this ambiguity between decisions of uncertainty and risk, because there is no chance to learn the result set. decisions under ignorance The decisions under ignorance represent the opposite of decisions under certainty because there is no information about the consequences of the decision, there are odds and also know what can happen. Are decision situations where we can not calculate the probability for different reasons, or where it makes sense to use probabilities. Conclusion During the process of entrepreneurship, the entrepreneur must deal with the business opportunity, with financial sources, operational and human, in addition to the organization seeking a leadership influence. Besides promoting a culture and an innovative and entrepreneurial goals according tracings. The entrepreneurial culture influences and provides a very distinguished contribution in enterprises, companies and groups that cultivate it, since it is a promoter of innovation, making their players better able to compete in a fast-changing and continuous. In addition, the risk-taking is therefore present in the process of entrepreneurship, because every decision to invest and seek new things requires risk taking. For the entrepreneur there are financial risks, transfer of operational and strategic, and the entrepreneur must be aware of and awareness about the consequences and risks of each goals. Decisions are based on previous knowledge of market and competitors, such decisions aimed at seeking further results and development issues for the company. The entrepreneur can make decision about risk, certainty, uncertainty and ambiguity and ignorance. Besides the main factor in the process of entrepreneurship and risk-taking and decisions within the process of developing the business.

Harley Davidson Essay -- Business Management Essays

Harley Davidson This report examines the Harley-Davidson phenomenon. From near bankruptcy to double-digit growth every year, Harley-Davidson has something working for them. That something is called †strategic planning and development.† With the growing global economy, companies are looking for ways to improve their market share. Many excellent firms have learned how to beat their competitors through the implementation of new management, marketing, and/or manufacturing techniques. Harley-Davidson is one of those excellent companies whom has challenged traditional ideas. This report will identify those strategies that have worked and brought the company and its shareholders success each year. Today, Harley-Davidson Inc., an employer of 8,100 workers, consists of Harley-Davidson Motor Company based in Milwaukee and Eagelmark Financial Services Inc. based in Chicago, Illinois. These are strategic business units are they are managed separately based on the fundamental differences in their operations, products and services. In addition, there are nearly 1,500 dealerships worldwide. Harley’s commitment toward continuous improvement is exemplified in the supplemental financial statements, Appendix section. Harley’s strategic objective is to continue to provide, safe, high technology heavyweight bikes and keep customer satisfaction at high levels. This quality vision more than doubled Harley-Davidson’s market share and increased its brand loyalty. Harley-Davidson’s products include: motorcycles, parts & accessories along with financing services. Three main geographic markets comprise the bulk of motorcycle sales: North America, Asia and Europe. Harley-Davidson’s customers are comprised of both male and female with the female segment the fastest growing market at 5% yearly. Expansion into the European and especially Asian markets will be forthcoming. These new market opportunities will require new designs that are lighter, easier to use, comfortable and stylish. Motorcycles are no longer thought of just a mode of transportation. The Harley-Davidson motorcycle welcomes you into a family, a culture of the free and willing sprit. Future threats to prepare for include the increase in European trade tariffs on well-known brands such as named, Harley-Davidson. Production plant expansion should shorten the wait time for manufacturing new bikes. This has be... ... at the Company's Tomahawk, Wisconsin facility; and a 165,000 square foot addition to the Company's Product Development Center in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin. The Company completed the Tomahawk expansion in the third quarter of 2002, but will continue to invest capital related to the remaining projects during the fourth quarter of 2002 and into 2003. BIBIOGRAPHY Henshaw P., Kerr I. (2001) The Encyclopedia of the Harley-Davidson. USA Teerlink, R (2000) More Than a Motorcycle – The Leadership Journey at Harley-Davidson. Harvard Business Review. Harley-Davidson Inc. Annual Reports Business Week articles: November 17, 2000 Harley is Riding High on the Hog November 16, 2002 Corporate Scoreboard-Third Quarter 2002 Business 2.0 articles: Dec 2002/Jan 2003 How Harley Revived Online Sales PDBPR articles: March 1999 Harley Davidson Weds Metrics to High-Performance Work Organization to Promote Launch Readiness B.C. Intell & Tech articles: October 11, 1998 The Trademark Registrability of the Harley-Davidson Roar; a Multimedia Analysis IIA Enterprise Risk Management Conference 2002 November 2002, Volume 29, number 11 Hoovers Online Dunn & Bradstreet Online

Attacked by a Friend :: essays papers

Attacked by a Friend Long long time ago in a galaxy far far away. Really only four years ago on a Friday night in a small redneck town just west of Atlanta. We had just moved to a new home in the same city. My younger brother had a friend, whose name is Jason, spend the night at our new home. As the Friday evening wore on, I mostly stayed in my room on the internet. I did the best as I could to be as anti-social as I could. However, at last, all of the people I was talking to on CompuServe signed off and I was left all alone. Therefore, as hard as it was for me to go to my brother’s room and play with him and his friend, I did it. I had a blast. The night was actually turning out to be not so horrible. As the night wore on we continued to play, and then it happened. I swung at his face in a joking manner and with out realizing it, Jason had pulled out a knife and it had cut me. Instead of pain, I felt a surge of pressure being released and I knew what had happened was not good. As I felt the knife cut into my arm, I could see blood shoot across the room. Immediately I grabbed the cut on my arm and ran to the bathroom sink! Turning my head to yell at my brother I screamed, â€Å"Nathan, get the first aid kit!† The bleeding was not slow; it kept gushing out, with no control at all! Then Nathan returned. â€Å"Here you go!† He said as he handed the box to me. Turning my head to him I said, â€Å"That’s not going to work you idiot!† As I lifted my thumb from top of the wound more blood shot out and was stopped only by the wall. Now what do I do? Oh no! I am going to have to tell mom and dad! I am in so much trouble right now. So I told my parents and was taken to the emergency room in Douglasville, GA. When I first arrived to the ER we where told by the attendant to hold on, so I took my thumb off the cut for a second and when the woman saw that she let me in immediately.

The Use of Symbolism in The Lottery by Shirley Jackson Essay -- Lotter

The Use of Symbolism in The Lottery by Shirley Jackson Within the first few lines of Shirley Jackson's "The Lottery" we are faced with such adjectives as clear, sunny, fresh and warmth. She goes on to paint a picture of small children just out of school for the summer, as the townspeople gather for the annual Lottery. This leads us to believe that the rest of the story is as cheery as the summer day initially described. We as the readers are virtually unaware of the horrible senseless events that lie ahead. Through the use of symbolism Shirley Jackson reveals the underlying decay of ethics that results from an empty ritual followed by narrow-minded people. Tessie Huchinson symbolizes the typical townsperson who lacks morals and conforms to the masses. Upon introduction she exudes a carefree attitude when she arrives late at the lottery, by joking with Mr. Summers and urging her husband to, "Get up there†¦" when their name is called to pick (Jackson 77). Consequently, the moment she finds out that her husband has the black dot Tessie yells, "It wasn't fair!" (Jackson 78). Naturally, the rest of the self-centered people urge her to "[b]e a good sport"(Jackson 78). The most disturbing event in the entire story is when Tessie tries to get her older daughters to be part of the final picking, and is dissapointed when she is told that they are only drawn with their husbands. The lottery proceeds and Tessie is stoned to death by her fellow neighbors. Shirley Jackson wants us to float along with her upbeat story and be completely appalled in the end at the total loss of human decency. Although Tessie was not said to be religious, h er name might have been tied to a religious liberal named Anne Huchinson. "Anne was banished f... ...ars, which has conditioned him to believe that they are doing the right thing. As discussed in class, the theme to this story can be expressed within a quote, "Although the villagers had forgotten the ritual and lost the original black box, they still remembered to use stones"(Jackson 79). The tradition and its function had been forgotten yet these people still killed one of their friends every summer. Shirley Jackson symbolically paints us an unsettling portrait of the loss of human decency that results when seemingly civilized people ignorantly conform to the masses. Bibliography: Works Cited "Hutchinson, Anne." The New Encyclopedia Britannica. 1986. Jackson, Shirley. "The Lottery." Literature and the Writing Process. Elizabeth Mc Mahan, Susan X Day, and Robert Funk. 5th ed. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Prentice, 1999. 74-79.

Metabical Case

Table Of Contents 1. 0 2. 0 3. 0 Introduction Executive Summary Situation Analysis 3. 1 Identification Of The Problem 3. 2 Market Analysis 3. 3 SWOT Analysis 3. 4 Target Market Marketing Communication Strategy 4. 1 Marketing Communication Plan/Objectives 4. 2 Marketing Budget 4. 3 Schedule for Key Marketing Communication Activities 4. 4 Promotional Strategies 4. 4. 1 Advertising Strategies 4. 4. 2 Promotion and Public Relations 4. 4. 3 Sales Force 4. 4. 4 Comprehensive Support Program 4. 5 Product Strategies 4. 6 Distribution Strategies 4. 7 Pricing Strategies 4. 7. 1 Potential Customer 4. 7. 2 Sales Forecast 4. . 3 Return on Investment (ROI) Conclusion 4. 0 5. 0 1 1. 0 INTRODUCTION Cambridge Science Pharmaceuticals (CSP) was an International health care company with a focus on developing, manufacturing, and marketing products that treat metabolic disorders, gastrointestinal diseases, immune deficiencies, as well as other chronic and acute medical conditions. The company captured ove r $25 billion in sales in 2007. Barbara Printup is the senior director of marketing of CSP who is responsible for the most successful product by CSP, Zimistat. CSP had assigned Printup to be in-charged of the upcoming U.S product launch of CSP ¶s newest prescription drug, Metabical. Barbara Printup, Senior Director of marketing for Cambridge Sciences Pharmaceuticals (CSP) will be the person who is responsible in the product launch of Metabical which scheduled for January 2009. It was now February 2008, and Printup ¶s first order of business was to develop a viable positioning strategy and associated marketing communications plan for Metabical. 2. 0 Executive Summary Cambridge Science Pharmaceuticals (CSP) came out with the first prescription drug approved by the FDA specifically for overweight individuals called Metabical.The majority of Metabical trials participants reached their weight-loss goals by week 12. Although pricing had not been finalized, CSP estimated the retail pri ce for the drug would be approximately $3 to $5 per day, with the average course treatment lasting 12 weeks. In this report, we will conduct an analysis for CSP ¶s product, Metabical starting from the analysis of the industry. We will then elaborate the issues regarding overweight and obesity in the United States and analyse the market survey done by the company regarding overweight issues in order for us to decide which is the best market segmentation that we should target.The second focus in this report would be the positioning strategy which we will state the point of parity and point of differences of Metabical and come out with the positioning strategy and target market. The third focus will be the the SWOT analysis of the product which we will state the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats of Metabical which lead us in deciding which marketing communication strategy need to be taken next. Finally, we will discuss on marketing communication strategy which best su it with the product so that CSP able to communicate well with the target consumer.To decide the best positioning strategy and marketing communication plan, CSP had spent so much time and money in R&D and on FDA trials for Metabical. Printup was well aware that in order to recoup this massive investment, the drug need not only a successful launch, but also long term, steady demand. If Metabical were not successful with initial consumers, credibility of the drug would be in question and FDA approval would mean little. Printup still needed to flesh out the optimal segmentation, targeting and positioning of the drug, Then she could move on to assessing her current marketing 2 ommunications strategy and developing a timeline for the key activities. The case study had led us in analysing and deciding who was the ideal target consumer? How should each participant in the decision-making process to be addressed? How could these participant best be reached? What was the appropriate message to convey to one of them? What was the role of the support program? What was the optimal rollout schedule for the key marketing communications activities? In this report, Printup will provide all recommendations for the successfull marketing communication strategy and to ensure the long-term steady demand for Metabical. . 1 IDENTIFICATION OF THE PROBLEM OVERVIEW OF OVERWEIGHT ISSUES IN THE UNITED STATE Excess weight is considered a public health crisis in the U. S, with approximately 65% of the entire adult population categorized as overweight, obese, or severely obese. Being overweight is related to a number of serious health complications, and according to the American Obesity Association in 2005, ? the second leading cause of preventable death in U. S. In addition to health risks, overweight individuals endure a significant social stigma as well as outright discrimination.Laziness and self indulgence are common stereotypes associated with this group. Many overweight people feel lik e social outcasts. The professional life of an overweight individual could also be negatively affected, as excess weight has been found to adversely influence, hiring decisions, wages, and promotions. Researchers and health care professionals measure excess weight using the Body Mass Index (BMI) scale. The BMI scale, which calculates the relationship between weight and height associated with body fat and health risk, is appropriate for both men and women.It has three BMI categories of excess weight for adults:overweight (25 to 30); obese (30 to 40); and severely, or morbidly obese (over 40). According to CDC National Centre for Health Statistics in 2002, 65% adults age 20-74 are overweight. Overweight can give negative impact to the people ¶s life such as coronary heart disease, endometrial, breast and colon cancer, gynecological problem, stroke, liver disease, sleep apnea and respiratory problems, hyper tension and many other diseases. People are getting fatter almost everywhere in the world. In 2005, 1. 6 billion adults in the world are overweight while 400 million are obese.The World Health Organization predicts there will be 2. 3 billion overweight adults in the world by 2015 and more than 700 million of them will be obese. MARKET ANALYSIS Marketing survey An extensive market survey had been conducted in 2007 which included 1,000 men and 1,000 women age ranging from 18 to 70 with BMIs of 25 to 29. 9 from various socioeconomics levels. The objective of the market survey is for CSP to understand the consumer ¶s behaviour and what they actually want. 3. 2 3 At first 70% of respondents surveyed were not satisfied with their current weight. 5% 0f them said were actively trying to lose weight but just 15% of them mentioned that were comfortable using drugs to help their weight-loss goals. When we described the benefits of Metabical to participants, 12 % of them immediately ask us to make an appointment with health care providers and request a prescription. I n terms of satisfaction with their current weight in each gender, 75% of women and 65% of men mentioned were dissatisfied with their current weight and appearance, whereas 50% of women and just 30% of men visited a health care provider for annual physical test.Base on survey which respondents mentioned 55% of women and 40% of men wanted to change their behavior to live a healthy lifestyle. While 60% of women and 30% of men said tried and failed to lose weight in past five years. The survey results reveal 65% and 35% of respondents were dissatisfied with current weight-loss options on the market for women and men respectively. In our data pool educational level of respondents as they mentioned was that 75% hold a college degree and 45% hold high school diploma and they were aware of the health risks associated with being moderately overweight.Based on respondents ¶ report, 65% of 18 to 35 years old respondents said that they wish to lose weight to look better and the rest (35%) of the same age group respondents said that they wish to lose weight to improve their overall health. While respondents with 35 years old and above have percentages 40% answers for good looks and 60% for better health. According to survey results 5%, 11% and 20% of respondents who have income level less than $40000, between $40,000 and more than$80,000 respectively mention that they would be willing to pay ? ut of pocket ? for a prescription weight-loss drug. Therefore according to the survey there is a need for a better weight loss drug which is proven and safe to lead a health lifestyle. Market Research Based on statistic on adult population in United States between 1976 and 2000 obviously we can see the percentage of obese and overweight steadily increasing. The percentage of overweight population who had BMI between 25 and 30 which categorized in overweight group was 34% in year 2000. while in the same year 25. % of U. S. populations categorized as obese and 4. 7% into severely obe se. Also the percentage of obesity were rise steadily with age in both gender with the highest occurrence among men age 65 to 74 and women age of 55 to 64 and with overall more prevalence in men rather than women. As we can see the percentage of obese had inversely related with education level and income level. The highest obesity percentages were in less than $25,000 with 32. 5% and level of education less than high school with 27. 4%.Through this experience and strong need to cater the moderately overweight people, health care providers saw their potential customers in them who want to lose unhealthy pounds. Health care providers went ahead to produce the drug and recommend them to use it besides getting help from diet and 4 exercise schedules. Based on reports which were obtained from health care providers one of their major concerns about weight-loss drug was that patients would get back weight when they stopped taking pills. We try to achieve psychographic segmentation of overw eight.According to research which was done on females, they have verity of aims to lose weight. In age 18 to 30 with high school education and under $40000 income have low self-esteem and unrealistic expectation to look like a movie star. And in age group between 25 to 40 with college education and income level $50,000$80,000 said willing to alter current behavior to get back to their old physic. While age 35 to 65 with college education plus and more than $80,000 income mentioned ready to make change to be healthier. In age group 45 to 65 with some college education and income $40,000 to $60,000 want to lose weight but if it is easy.In age group 40 to 65 with some college education and income $30,000-$50,000 they accepted their overweight and they don ¶t want to change the lifestyle. Printup also commissioned a study to analyse psychographic segmentation of overweight individuals. The study revealed that women demonstrated the most distinct segmentation. Out of five psychographic profiles, we feel that CSP should focus into two of it segmentation which is as follows: SEGMENT ? I want to be healthier? DESCRIPTION Want to lose weight to feel better and live longer.Knowledgeable about the importance of nutrition and exercise. Ready to make a change. Focused on gold of reclaiming former weight. Motivated and willing to alter current behaviour. TYPICAL DEMORGRAGPHIC PROFILE Age 35 to 65, college education plus, household income $80,000+ ?I want to wear my skinny jeans? Age 25 to 40, college education, household income $50,000 – $60,000 To support the above findings, in February 2008 focus group study revealed their dissatisfaction with current weight-loss options and the desire for a proven and safe way to drop excess weight.This focus group participants also expressed the desire for a prescription ±strength drug with FDA approval and clinical result to back up weight-loss claim. 5 3. 3 SWOT ANALYSIS SWOT Analysis is a Strategic Planning method that is used to evaluate the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats of a business. It involves monitoring the internal and external marketing environment. Table 1 : SWOT Analysis STRENGTHS i. ii. iii. iv. v. vi. vii. viii. ix. FDA approval Safe and effective in achieving significant weight loss. Less harmful compared to other products.One pill per day Average course treatment lasting12 weeks Combination of Calosera and meditanan created dramatic effect for weight loss. Strong and Comprehensive marketing strategy Experience marketing and R&D team Allocate substantial amount of money in marketing budget i. ii. WEAKNESSES Negative side effect-gastrointestinal discomfort. Not effective for individual with BMI>30 OPPORTUNITIES i. ii. iii. iv. Comprehensive support program Health care plans to include Metabical in their prescription drug program 65% of adult population categorized as over weight, obese or severely obese.No prescription  ± drug options for overweight segment (BMI 25-30 ) available in 2008 except drug Alli approved by FDA Market research indicated of high indication of people wanting to loss weight. i. ii. iii. THREATS FDA imposed stringent regulation due to negative side-effect cases. Increasing herbal / dietary supplements Deceptive marketing claims. v. 3. 3. 1 STRENGTH CSP believed that its prescription drug, Metabical, is far more superior than any weight-loss solution on the market because Metabical would be the first prescription drug approved by the FDA specifically for overweight individuals (i. . , those with BMI of 25 to 30). The combination of calosera and meditonan produced dramatic weight loss for overweight individuals and it is find to be less harmful as compared to other weight loss drugs. It worked in a low dose formulation, thereby reducing stress on heart or liver function than other weight loss drugs tended to produce. Metabical also contained a controlled release feature that required only one pill to be taken per day with aver age course of treatment lasting 12 weeks. It also helps in changing people behavior to a healthier eating habits.CSP is an international company with a strong and experienced marketing and R&D team. CSP has developed a comprehensive marketing strategies and have allocated substantial amount of money in marketing budget. 6 3. 3. 2 WEAKNESSES Despite of its strength, Metabical has few negative side effects associated with excess fat and calories in the diet. It occurs when users consumed high level of fat and calories. These side effects were similar to the gastrointestinal discomfort caused by Alli, only less severe.Metabical ¶s formulation however is not very effective in helping individuals with BMIs of 30 or greater and was, therefore, not recommended for this group. 3. 3. 3 OPPORTUNIES Excess weight is considered a public health crisis in the U. S and approximately 65% of the entire adult population categorized as overweight, obese or severely obese. With these large population , it creates an even bigger market share for Metabical. In addition, no prescription drug option specifically for the overweight segment (BMI of 25 to 30) were available in 2008 except for drug Alli had been approved by the FDA for weight loss used.Meaning there will be no strong competitor for Metabical for the time being. From the market survey and market research conducted by CSP, it showed high indication of people actively wanting to lose weight and live a healthy life style with comprehensive support program will enable individuals to achieve better results than they would from the pill alone. In addition, the support program would teach lifestyle skills for healthy weight maintenance after the initial weight loss was achieved. 3. 3. 4 THREATThe drug industry faced several safety concerns with regard to weight-loss drugs and had been accused of deceptive marketing claims that dempened enthusiasm for the products. This deceptive marketing claim had damaged the industry credibil ity and to regain consumer ¶s confidence would be another big challenge to the drug industries. The rising in the numbers of dietary supplements and herbal products had worsened the situation due to its unregulated condition by the FDA and the products negative side effect such as sudden cardiac death and other serous health risks had reduse people confidence in weight loss drugs. . 4 TARGET MARKET In developing a viable positioning strategy in order to determine the right target market, CSP had conducted an extensive market survey of overweight individuals in the year 2007. Under the market analysis, Barbara Printup also carried out a study to analyze psychographic segmentation of the overweight individuals and they found out that women demonstrated the most distinct segmentation. Based on these findings from the market survey, market research and the psychographic segmentation, we suggest that the target market for Metabical are as the following: 1) 2) 3) 4) 5) 6) 4. 0 Specifica lly for overweight individuals with BMI of 25 to 30. Women with age ranging from 25-65 Women with household income between $50,000 – $80,000 Women with college education and above Concern with health issues caused by overweight and actively trying to lose weight Willing to change current behavior and to live healthy lifestyle MARKETING COMMUNICATION STRATEGY The communication strategy of a prescription weight loss drug such as Metabical had to address all participants in the decision making process.Therefore, the communication strategy must focus on two main targets firstly, the Healthcare Providers and secondly direct to consumers who would be prescribing the medication. The marketing communication strategy should also address the concern of the healthcare providers which is  µthe patient would regain weight after they stop taking the pills ¶ and to include in the communication process by providing solution through Metabical and its continuous support program.As far the end consumers the communication process must address their concern which is  µwant to lose weight to feel better and live longer ¶. The initial Metabical launch budget is as per Table 2 below: Table 2 : Marketing Budget YEAR 1 ADVERTISING Push (Prescriber) Pull (Direct To Customer) Total Advertising $ 1,000,000 $ 12,000,000 ——————-$ 13,000,000 $ 200,000 $ 600,000 $ 2,000,000 $ 500,000 $ 200,000 ——————-$ 3,500,000 $ 3,500,000 $ 800,000 ——————-$ 4,300,000 $ 600,000 $ 1,491,000 $ 255,000 $ 23,146,000 PROMOTIONDevelopment of Support Program Lunch & Learn Seminars / Other Promo Production of Support Program Training / Promotion Materials Direct Mailing To Health Care Providers Total Promotion PUBLIC RELATIONS Medical Education Meeting and Event Press Release / Materials Total Public Relations Market Research Sales Force Allocation Product Management Allocation TOTAL BUDGET It is also very important for the marketing communication strategy to have the timeline for the key marketing activities and we proposed the optimal roll out schedule for key marketing communications activities to be as follows: 8Table 3 : Schedule of Marketing Communication Activities TIME LINE Sales Force Road show On Clinical Information by sales Pharmacies Team Advertising To Create Brand Awarenes & Knowledge Advertising Branding Image Promotion & Public Relation Product Launch Continues Support Program YEAR 1 YEAR 2 FEB 2008 JAN 2009 4. 4. 1 ADVERTISING A sum of $13. 0 million had been allocated for these push and pull advertising. Direct-to-consumer (DTC) advertising is a new phenomenon in the drug industry due to the introduction of guidelines by the FDA in 1997 that opened up the flood gates to the drug advertisements.The first year, CSP should aggressively spend on the advertising activities to DTC in order to create product knowledge and brand awareness which include television, online (website), radio advertisements and press conference during the product launch in January 2009. In order to meet its objective we propose that the advertisement strategy must go with the tagline ? Losing weight is tough, You don ¶t have to do it alone. Let Metabical and your healthcare provider start you on the road to a healthy weight and better lifestyle?.The Senior Executive of CSP did not agree with the idea of celebrity endorser but we strongly believe that this celebrity spokesperson idea is a great idea and able to attract more customers to buy Metabical. As we know that celebrities have become the trend setter and very influential in terms of their style of dressing, hairstyle, cosmetic that they are wearing, their car model and even what they eat. Thus, a celebrity like Oprah Winfrey can be very influential in attracting more customers especially when she endorse Metabical in her talk show program.Metabical ¶s advertising strategy should also target the professional medical community which is the healthcare provider. For example, they could create a campaign by print ads in leading medical publications and interactive ads online related to health issues in order to raise awareness about the drug and its benefits. 9 This advertising concepts which aimed to healthcare provider must go along with the tagline ? Empower your patients to lose excess weight. Change their unhealthy eating habits and achieve long term success.Introducing Metabical short-term drug therapy and comprehensive support program for overweight patients. It gets results? 4. 4. 2 PROMOTION AND PUBLIC RELATIONS The promotion and public relations budget also included campaign aimed at both healthcare providers and the end consumers. The total budget allocated for this campaign is $4. 3 mil with $1. 3 mil was allocated for promotional campaign in the first year. Before the Metabical launch, pamphlets and reply card for sample of support program should be mai led to 100,000 health care providers as a direct mail campaign.These pamphlets contain information about Metabical. The next best campaign that the marketing communication strategy should focus heavily on is the viral marketing campaign in order to reach the market globally. This viral marketing involves internet sales, social network such as facebook, twitter and blogs in order to create buzz for Metabical. Infact, CSP should set up a team on this viral marketing campaign in order to reach customers faster and cheaper globally.The plan to launch an online contest during Metabical launching day is a good idea whereby Metabical users would have the chance to compete who could reduce their BMI ¶s by the highest percentage. Normally in the weight loss industry, people want to see results and testimonial on the drugs. ` We consider the Public Relations efforts to include pre-launch and atlaunch press release is a good more because it can act as a teaser ad and to inform the public at large that Metabical is the newly safe weight loss drug in the market.The roundtable discussion involving prominent leaders member of media and medical professional in the medical community and medical research symposium to members of media and medical professional, is an important strategy because in order for the weight loss products to be successful, an endorsement by expert is very likely to increase the confidence level of the customers. In addition, the coverage of these high profile events in the leading news organization shall enhance the marketing communication strategy of Metabical.A series of breakout sessions focusing on health issues for overweight patients shall further strengthening the communication strategy in product effectiveness and awareness. 10 4. 4. 3 SALES FORCE The Metabical sales team consisted of 32 sales representatives who service approximately 3,200 medical offices. These sales team had been instructed to give product detail of Metabical to the healthca re providers.In order for the sales team to be effective in meeting objective of creating product knowledge and its benefits, they providing clinical information and to arrange for a visit to at least four medical offices per day in order to finish up the 3,200 medical offices which are already in their data base. CSP also need to increase the number of their sales force team in order to cover the other 100,000 healthcare providers which are still untapped by them. This additional sales force team need to attend all the inquiries that they might receive after the mailing of pamphlets and sample to the said 100,000 healthcare providers. . 4. 4 COMPREHENSIVE SUPPORT PROGRAM The most common problem among the weight loss drug company is that people will start regaining weight once they stop taking the pill and in some cases, these people will gain even more weight then their initial weight. Realising this issue, CSP planned to create a comprehensive support program to complement the Met abical pill. Its goal is to enable individuals to achieve better results than they would from the pill alone. In addition, the support program would teach lifestyle skills for healthy weight maintenance after the initial weight loss was achieved. 200,000 will be spent on the development of the support program and the cost in Year 1 associated with producing the program is approximately $2 million. It is recommended that CSP to add this comprehensive support program in their packaging in the form of a CD in each pack so as to enhance the ability of Metabical users to reach and maintain their weight-loss goals. They can also put it in their website and to other form of social network. The sales force team also need to include this support program in their presentation in order to convey its benefits to the healthcare providers.It must also be well stated in the pamphlets and flyers which they are distributing. 4. 5 PRODUCT STRATEGY Metabical is the first prescription drug approved by FDA specifically for overweight individual with BMI of 25 to 30. Clinical trials proved Metabical to be safe and effective in achieving significant weight loss for overweight individuals. The majority of trial participants reached their weight-loss goals by week 12. Thus, CSP need to decide on the best form of packaging by considering what is the number of pills that would be included in each pack. 11Packing the whole twelve week supply in one package will cause higher pricing and it will effect the number of potential customers. Even though the twelve-week supply will enable the customers to complete the twelve-week cycle in 3 months in a row but it will limit the potential customers only to those who can afford the entire medication program with one-time pay. Therefore, it is advisable to pack Metabical with one pack for four week supply which can make it affordable for everyone. However, there is risk to this one-month packaging whereby there will be no guarantee that the consume rs will complete the entire treatment.As such, it is also suggested to have another packaging with 3 pack for 12 weeks supply and as value added, a CD contain comprehensive support program is attached to it. By attaching the comprehensive support program to the 3 pack of twelve week supply it can definitely attract more customers especially those with higher income bracket of more than $80,000. 4. 6 DISTRIBUTION STRATEGY Being a prescribed weight loss drugs definitely the distribution channels are limited to places such as Drug store, healthcare Providers, Specialty Store uch as Watson, Pharmacy such as Guardian and the latest trend is the Internet Sales. 4. 7 PRICING STRATEGY Pricing is another important factor in determining the success of Metabical. In order to determine the price for Metabical, first we compare with its closest competitor which is Alli ¶s pricing model. We have to also come up with several other assumptions such as by assuming that consumers will be ready to p ay more for a prescription drug and generally people trust prescribed drug rather than the non-prescribed drugs.So, to set higher price for Metabical would not be a problem and would be acceptable by the consumers. Therefore, we come-up with price simulation as per Table 4 below: Table 4: Pricing Simulation METABICAL ALLI Estimated Retail Price Dosage Treatment $3 to $5 Per pill 1 Pill Per Day 12 Weeks (90 Days) $120 Per Pack / $2. 40 Per Pill 1 Pill Per Day 50 Days $2 Per Pill Revenue Per Month Revenue Per Year   ESTIMATED RETAIL PRICE $3 Per Pill $4 Per Pill $5 Per Pill $6 Per Pill $60 $720 $90 $1,080 $120 $1,440 $150 $1,800 $180 $2,160 To sell at $90 per month is to low because Metabical is a prescription drug. To capture a larger group the price should not as high as $150 per month. $120 per month would be the right price for a four weeks supply. Based on Table 4 above, we set Metabical price at $120 per month which we assume would be the right price for a four week supply. 1 2 Pricing strategy is also directly ties with the demand forecast and sales forecast. Thus, based on Market Survey and Market research finding we come up with demand forecast as per Table 4 below: 4. . 1 POTENTIAL CUSTOMER Table 5 : Potential Customer POPULATION OVERWEIGHT POTENTIAL USER (Million) (25 < BMI < 30) (MILLION) 2000 209 34% 71. 06 2008 230 39% 89. 70 FROM MARKET SURVEY 12% – Respondents Immediately Make an Appointment With Their Health Care Provider and Request a Prescription YEAR 2000 YEAR 2008 71. 06 Mill X 12% = 8. 53 Mill 89. 70 Mill X 12% = 10. 76 Mill Say Only 10% Consumers Can Be Reached In The First Year 8. 53 Mill X 10% = 0. 85 Mill 10. 76 Mill X 10% = 1. 08 Mill YEARFrom the above demand forecast, we then come up with the sales forecast as per Table 6: 4. 7. 2 SALES FORECAST Table 6 : Sales Forecast ESTIMATED TOTAL NUMBER OF PACK TO BE SOLD From : 2. 55 Mill Packs (0. 85 Mill X 3 Packs) To : 3. 24 Mill Packs (1. 08 Mill X 3 Packs) Consider Price @ $120 P er Pack CSP WOULD EARN BETWEEN $306 Mill to $389 Mill 4. 7. 3 RETURN ON INVESTMENT (ROI) Table 7 : Return on Investment (ROI) INITIAL YEAR SALES TURNOVER ($ Mill) ACUMULATIVE CASHFLOW ($ Mill) RETURN ON INVESTMENT (ROI) ( % ) (423. 5) (423. 15) YEAR 1 347. 40 (75. 75) -19% : : : YEAR 2 383. 88 308. 13 77% YEAR 3 424. 18 732. 31 183% 515% $2,623. 65 MILL 1. 27 YEARS YEAR 4 468. 72 1,201. 03 300% YEAR 5 517. 94 1,718. 97 429% INTERNAL RATE OF RETURN (IRR) NET PRESENT VALUE (NPV) PAYBACK PERIOD y ASSUMTIONS Product Price : $120 Per Pack (For 1 Month Treatment  ± 30 pills) Estimated Product Sold in Year 1 : From 2. 55 Mill  ± 3. 24 Mill (Say On Average 2. 90 Mill Packs). Turnover Increase by 10% Every Year. Investment Cost $423. 15 Mill. 13 5. 0CONCLUSION Print-up had come up with a strong and comprehensive marketing communication strategy which focus on the brand awareness and Metabical benefits to the targeted group. Based on the extensive market survey and market research as well as the focus group findings, the marketing communication strategy of Metabical will be successfully creating demand for Metabical. Furthermore, being known as the only prescription drug with FDA approval and clinical results to back up weight-loss claims will definitely attract a lot more customers and steady demand in the future. 14