Philosophy Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Theory - Essay Example Since his initial age, Descartes had started to question each conventional certainty, he had ever known or learned. His questions even arrived at his own reality on the planet. Along these lines, in his Discourse on Method Meditations and Principles, Descartes clarifies and expounds the standards of his way of thinking that rely upon suspicion and vulnerability. At that point, he began to reconstruct his insight, just as our own, by demonstrating his own reality, and the presence of brain, soul, and God. As saw by numerous masterminds, â€Å"the Method of Doubt eventually includes the assignment of expelling every single unsure conviction, guaranteeing that solitary convictions that are surely evident convictions stay in one's philosophy† (Bellotti). So as to take us from the condition of complete uncertainty to finish assurance, Descartes made a canny association between his strategy for uncertainty and his technique for request, falling back on the utilization of the logical technique for intuition, supported by previous masterminds and scholars. Fundamentally, the logical technique can be considered as a procedure, in which one adjusts himself and his past information, through ceaseless assessment of truth, for the last point of discovering answers to questions. This assessment of truth is what is alluded to as uncertainty and distrust by Descartes (Bracken). Hypothetically, the logical technique for speculation, as rehearsed by popular scholars, for example, Galileo and Francis Bacon, takes two principle structures: deductive thinking and inductive thinking. Expanding on the speculations of extraordinary previous masterminds, Descartes found that the deductive strategy most appropriate his philosophical standards. To represent, the deductive type of the logical technique comes to a provable genuine end result by thinking after the use of keen investigations and sound rationale. The inductive technique, then again, begins with perceptions, which make a speculation to be demonstrated through an affirmation procedure. This type of the logical strategy can be confirm, for instance, in Newton’s law of gravity. He showed up at this law subsequent to watching the fall of the apple from the tree. This perception drove him to make a speculation about a shrouded power that let the apple fall, driving him to show up at the law of gravity. Despite what might be expected, the deductive type of the logical strategy doesn't begin with a theory; rather, it takes a gander at the effectively existent realities and looks at them through thinking to determine decision about the precision and legitimacy of the reality. In this way, this was actually what Descartes needed to actualize, with respect to his way of thinking of uncertainty. For him, any well established reality can be questioned till it is consistently end up being valid through thinking (Roach). Descartes determined this trust in the idea of rationale and thinking from his exper ience as a mathematician. He plainly expresses this reality, when he says that he was charmed â€Å"with science due to the assurance of its exhibits and the proof of its reasoning† (Beardsley, p. 9). Utilizing his numerical foundation, Descartes at that point would in general apply rationale and thinking to all his future philosophical standards. Actualizing the deductive type of the logical strategy, Descartes goes on in his contemplations to encounter a scholarly excursion, where he questions each and every reality in our reality. As substantiated by numerous spectators, â€Å"Descartes starts his technique for question by thinking about that he has, before, been hoodwinked by his faculties †things have looked a way that they are not† (Lacewing). Subsequently, this logical technique

Hindu Custom of Marriage :: Exploratory Essays Research Papers

Hindu Custom of Marriage Hinduism started in Ancient India a huge number of years prior. Hindu traditions vary enormously from the ones we practice in the western world. This paper talks about the Hindu custom of marriage and the desires for those to be marry. Men are relied upon to wed so as to carry on the family ancestry. Ladies are urged to wed to help soothe their monetary weight from their folks (Sullivan 135). A wedding happens after a man has completed his investigations, accomplished the consent of his educator, washed, and played out the custom for homecoming. The dad of the young lady dresses and embellishes his little girl, and gets 2-4 dairy animals and bulls (O'Flaherty 101). The man and his significant other to be stroll around a fire multiple times while they attest their marriage promises to the went with refrains from the Veda (Sullivan 135). The Lawbook of Manu contains a rundown of attributes a spouse ought not have. She ought not originate from a family that has relinquished the customs, a family without any young men, one that doesn't recite the Veda. Some more qualities that are not adequate are ladies with bristly bodies, who have utilization, frail processing, terrible recollections, and furthermore infection. Ladies that are redheads, have additional appendages, are wiped out, uncovered, go on and on, are pallid, excessively fat or excessively dainty, excessively tall or excessively shrunken, over the hill, or coming up short on an appendage or attached to quarreling are likewise not adequate for marriage. A hostile name can decide a lady's worth. Terrible names incorporate ones that have to do with a heavenly body, tree, or stream, low position names, names of mountains, and winged creatures or snakes. Slave names and fearsome names are likewise to be maintained a strategic distance from. Ladies with these sorts of names are not to be hitched by the qualities that must be met for a lady to be worthy for marriage. A lady fit for marriage ought to have total appendages, a wonderful name, should walk like a swan or elephant, have fine hair on her body and on her head, sensitive appendages, and ought not have huge teeth. A man should take a spouse of a similar class (O'Flaherty 101-102), yet on the off chance that a marriage takes place across position limits, at that point it is quite often the lady wedding into a higher standing (Fuller 14).â Marriages are regularly orchestrated while the young lady is just a kid. The Manava Dharma Sastra and other lawful writings imagine that a man of thirty wed a young lady of twelve (Sulli van 135).

Freedom Writers Essay Topics

Freedom Writers Essay TopicsFreedom Writers essay topics are a wonderful way to learn and enjoy your time in school. It is something that will be taught over, and hopefully, continue to enhance your skills as you grow older. However, the freedom writers program for parents may not be right for you if you are looking for a change of pace or trying to do some research on the side.There are certain types of essay topics that students are assigned, whether it is writing a paper on medical ethics or why good writers use in their subject matter or even science fiction writing, or why. In fact, a good number of these topics have already been mentioned in one form or another by other students who have written papers on the same topics.While they have covered specific points and types of papers, when it comes to particular freedom writers essay topics, there is often not much ground covered at all. And since a lot of them may have been discussed, and perhaps a new topic comes up at any given time, one would wonder how things were originally discussed. That is why you might want to look elsewhere.You might want to take some free passage from a book, film, newspaper article, play, etc., but make sure that the meaning of the passage is not the same as the topic that you are teaching. Instead, look for a different topic that has similar types of thoughts, points, or observations. Often times this can lead to a completely different essay topic.If the student you teach does not understand how to use the information or doesn't seem to be following directions, you may wish to explain the idea, but never suggest that the students write about the topic. Allow them to discover the ideas on their own and you can continue working on the main topic.Some freedom writers essay topics, however, may come with a strong emphasis on reading and writing. While these are great ways to help you focus on the skills you need to succeed as a student, they are not always the best choice. Again, as a teacher, you need to go with the flow, and you want to find a topic that doesn't require too much in the way of reading and writing, as it may become too challenging to the student.As well, some freedom writers essay topics may include subjects that are a bit on the controversial side. It can be tempting to include controversial issues in the paper, especially if the topic is one that can be written about in a non-offensive manner. However, even though you may agree that the topic is important, many students will run away screaming at the moon.Ultimately, the best way to decide which freedom writers essay topics are right for you is to consider the entire course. Of course, you will want to make sure you feel that the course provides the answers you are looking for, but you also need to consider what works for you. Once you figure out what works best for you, you can begin to choose the freedom writers essay topics that are right for you.

Managing Diversity in the Workplace Essay - 2191 Words

Diversity in the workplace is a subject that has gained increased attention over recent years. After all, the impact of affirmative action and equal employment opportunity programs on the nations work force is undeniable. Women and minorities were the first to dramatically alter the face of the economic mainstream, while gays, persons with disabilities and senior citizens followed not far behind. The result is a diverse American labor force representing a microcosm of our society - yet one that continues to struggle with its identity. Continuing to increase racial and ethnic diversity in the workforce poses one of the most challenging human resource and organizational issues of our time; however, this paper will show that overcoming†¦show more content†¦Other countries around the world each have their own experience with and approach to ideas about how people differ, depending upon their historical and linguistic heritages. (Gundling 2007) The globalization of business and the demographic trends of many nations of the world are creating markets and workforces that are increasingly culturally diverse. For example, it is estimated that in the next decade more than 40 percent of all net additions to the workforce in the United States will be ethnic minorities, including many immigrants from Asian and Latin American countries. Further, organizations based in many other countries of the world, including Canada, Italy, the Pacific Islands, Germany and Japan, are struggling with issues related to the increased presence of ethnic minorities or of women in management ranks. (Cox 1997) In 50 of Americas 200 cities with populations over 100,000, the so-called minority is the majority. (Hubbard 2004) According to the U.S. Census Bureau projections, by the year 2050, non-whites will represent close to half of the U.S. population. Over 600,000 people per year legally (about 1 million total) continue to flow into the U.S. popu lation, and the birthrates of immigrants are higher than for the native-born population. (Condrey 2005) Immigration patterns have shifted, too. For much of the last century, the preponderance of immigrants came from Europe. Today,Show MoreRelatedManaging Diversity in the Workplace1043 Words   |  5 PagesManaging diverse employees in a multicultural environment proves challenging to managers; yet, increasing diversity in the workplace is very beneficial for an organization. Diverse employees will provide a wider array of talents and will relate better to varied customers. Because managers have more influence than rank-and-file employees, it is imperative that managers commit to diversity of the workforce. Dissimilarities among people due to differences in characteristics can erode companies. FirstlyRead MoreManaging Diversity in the Workplace1356 Words   |  6 Pagesare instances, however, when workplace behavior can get out of hand and be inappropriate, causing a rift between employees. Many companies today hold yearly ethics courses designed to pinpoint an acceptable quality of behavior from their employees and also open up the floor to those who have issues with the company and its policies. Sometimes confronting an issue head on in a supportive environment will help find a positive solution to any issues of harassment or workplace abuse. Harassment should notRead MoreEssay on Managing Diversity in the Workplace1207 Words   |  5 PagesJohn F. Kennedy once said If we cannot end now our differences, at least we can help make the world safe for diversity. Diversity in the Workplace: Benefits, Challenges, and the Required Managerial Tools1 Kelli A. Green, Mayra Là ³pez, Allen Wysocki, and Karl Kepner2 Introduction The worlds increasing globalization requires more interaction among people from diverse cultures, beliefs, and backgrounds than ever before. People no longer live and work in an insular marketplace; they are nowRead MoreManaging Diversity Within The Workplace1605 Words   |  7 PagesAbstract- Managing Diversity in the workplace requires a lot of focus, training, and time. This paper gives an insight into the world of management and how diversity plays a big part. It explores the key benefits to putting emphasis on diversity and also how not putting emphasis on diversity could hurt your business. This paper also gives examples on how to go about managing diversity in the workplace. With proper focus on managing diversity, your organization can be at a big advantage. I. INTRODUCTIONRead MoreManaging Diversity in the Workplace Essay1140 Words   |  5 PagesManaging diversity and demographical changes in the workplace presents many dilemmas. Confronted with constant change, management, business educators, and organizational consultants continue to meet the challenges of a new and diverse workforce in a number of ways. Diversity can be defined in numerous ways. Diversity includes all the ways in which people differ, and it encompasses all the different characteristics that make one individual or group different from another. It is all inclusive and recognizesRead MoreManaging Diversity in the Workplace Essay3304 Words   |  14 PagesDiversity in the Workplace Abstract Imagine that you are a highly qualified former Hispanic executive who was recently laid off from a fortune 500 hundred company. Within that company you held several key roles in which you were crucial to the success of the organization. In the prior roles you may have never really understood the need or the process of managing diversity. You hold several advanced degrees in key business fields despite all of your experience education and the economy flourishingRead More Managing Diversity in the Workplace Essay1900 Words   |  8 Pagesexercise our diversity. We need to give each other space so that we may both give and receive such beautiful things as ideas, openness, dignity, joy, healing, and inclusion. -- Max de Pree Workplaces today have become increasingly diverse with employees of different genders, races, cultures, ethnic origins, and lifestyles. Changes in the cultural make-up of organizations have been so vast that it has become imperative for leaders and supervisors to understand cultural diversity and how it canRead MoreManaging Diversity And Equality Within The Workplace2677 Words   |  11 PagesIntroduction Managing diversity and equality effectively in the workplace is the core responsibility of any organization in the contemporary business world. Shen, Chanda, D’Netto and Monga (2009) conducted a survey whose results revealed the massive diversity within the British society in terms of ethnicity, nationality and religion. As a result, the Equality Act of 2010 was formulated and became law whose provisions focus on legal protection against discrimination based on gender re-assignment,Read MoreEssay about Managing Diversity in the Workplace1449 Words   |  6 Pagesorganizations need diversity to become more creative and open to change. Maximizing and capitalizing on workplace diversity has become an important issue for management today (UCSF). Workplace diversity refers to having a variety of different types of people working together within a place of business. Employee gender, race, religion, sexual preference, physical appearance, family or marital status, education, culture, personality, or tenure establishes diversity in the workplace. Diversity is rapidlyRead More Managing Diversity and Ethics in the Workplace - 12979 Words   |  12 Pages Managing Diversity and Ethics in the Workplace Introduction There steps leaders and managers can take to effectively manage diversity and ethics concerns. How a manager effectively manages ethics and diversity, within the organization is directly correlated to the cultural, organizational and external environment influence ethical behavior. One of the step’s leaders and managers can take is to incorporate diversity training of the organization.

10 Facts About Spanish Prepositions

Here are 10 facts about Spanish prepositions that will come in handy as you learn the language. 1. A preposition is a part of speech that is used to connect a noun with another part of a sentence. That noun — or noun substitute such as a pronoun, infinitive or phrase acting like a noun — is known as a prepositional object. Unlike interjections and verbs, prepositions cannot stand alone; they are always used with objects. 2. Prepositions, preposiciones in Spanish, are called that because they are positioned before objects. In Spanish this is always true. Except perhaps in some kind of poetry where the rules of word order are discarded, the prepositional object always follows the preposition. This is in contrast with English, where it is possible to place a preposition at the end of a sentence, especially in questions such as Whom are you going with? In translating that sentence to Spanish, the preposition con must come before quià ©n, the word for who or whom in a question:  ¿Con quià ©n vas? 3. Prepositions can be simple or compound. The most common Spanish prepositions are simple, meaning that theyre made up of one word. Among them are a (often meaning to), de (often meaning from), en (often meaning in or on), para (often meaning for) and por (often meaning for). Compound prepositions should be thought of as a single unit even though made up of two or more words. Among them are delante de (usually meaning in front of) and debajo de (usually meaning underneath). 4. Phrases beginning with a preposition usually function like adjectives or adverbs. Two examples of adjectival usage, with prepositions in boldface: En el hotel hay mucho ruido durante la noche. (In the hotel there is much noise during the night. The phrase provides a description of ruido, a noun.) Comprà © la comida en el refrigerador. (I bought the food in the refrigerator.) The same adverbial phrases used as adverbs: Ella se levantà ³ durante la noche. (She got up during the night. The phrase describes how the action of the verb, se levantà ³, was performed.) Puse la comida en  el  refrigerador. (I put the food in the refrigerator.) 5. Numerous fixed phrases that include a preposition can also function as prepositions. For example, the phrase a pesar de means in spite of and like simpler prepositions must be followed by a noun or noun substitute: A pesar de la crisis, tengo mucho dinero. (In spite of the crisis, I have a lot of money.) 6. Spanish frequently uses phrases with a preposition in situations where English speakers often use adverbs. For example, youre more likely to hear phrases such as de prisa or a toda prisa to mean hurriedly than an adverb such as apresuradamente. Other common adverbial phrases among the hundreds in existence include en broma (jokingly), en serio (seriously), por cierto (certainly) and por fin (finally). 7. Meanings of prepositions can be vague and highly dependent on context, so the meanings of Spanish and English prepositions frequently dont line up well. For example, the preposition a, while often meaning to, can also mean by, at or even off to. Similarly, the English to can be translated not only as a, but also as sobre, de, hacia and contra. 8. The most confusing prepositions for Spanish students are often por and para. Thats because both are frequently translated as for. The rules become complicated, but one quick tip that covers many situations is that por often refers to a cause of some sort while para often refers to a purpose. 9. When a sentence opens with a prepositional phrase that modifies the meaning of the entire sentence, that phrase is followed by a comma. This is common with phrases that reflect the speakers attitude toward what is said. Example: Sin embargo, prefiero escuchar lo que dicen. (Nevertheless, I prefer to hear what they say.) 10. The prepositions entre and segà ºn use subject pronouns rather than object pronouns. So the equivalent of according to me is segà ºn yo (not using the me you might expect). Similarly, between you and me is entre yo y tà º (me and ti arent used).

Counseling Ethics Critical Thinking - 1196 Words

Logical Analysis of Ethics and Critical Thinking Ethics in Psychotherapy and Counseling 4th ed., Chapter 3 Authors: Kenneth Pope and Melba Vasquez The authors’ main purpose of this chapter is to teach the importance of examining our ethics through the lenses of critical thinking. In general, critical thinking is being able to learn new material with an open mind and having a heightened level of self-awareness of our biases and how our biases impact the analysis of information. A critical thinking approach when applied to the logical analysis of journal articles, chapters or entire textbooks--encourages us to analyze the author(s)’ goals, objectives, issues, observations, facts, conclusions, biases, inferences, assumptions,†¦show more content†¦The main inference in this chapter is being human makes us vulnerable to ethical errors. The key concepts we need to understand in this chapter are: learn to recognize major patterns and pitfalls. The main assumption(s) underlying the authors’ thinking is, we are not perfect, but ignorance is not bliss nor is it an e xcuse for unethical behavior. If we take this line of reasoning seriously, the implications are we must learn how judgement, the 22 types of logical fallacies in ethical reasoning, language and justifications impact are interpretation and commitment to adhere to our professional ethics. The consequences or benefits if you take authors’ line of reasoning: you will be less likely to commit ethical errors due to ignorance or experience difficulty applying ethics to your specific situation. However, if we fail to take this line of reasoning seriously, the implications are we are sure to succumb to the pitfalls of logical fallacies which may place our client’s or ourselves in harm’s way. Clinicians may be misguided or misdirected byShow MoreRelatedThe Theoretical Frameworks Governing The Field Of Counseling Psychology934 Words   |  4 Pagestheoretical frameworks governing the field of Counseling Psychology are theories emerging from several schools of thought including Psychoanalytic, Adlerian, Existential, Person-centered, Gestalt, Behavior, Cognitive behavior, Reality and Family systems. I will discuss and supplement the aforementioned therapy derived from theoretical foundations in the succeeding sections with the assistance of a class handout issued by Dr. Didi Firman for the course Counseling Theory and Practice and with excepts fromRead MoreEthical Ethics And Ethical Issues1311 Words   |  6 Pagesethical issues and codes; theoretical orientations to ethics and; legal and ethical issues. Each chapter is supplemented with a summary and questions for additional reflection and thought and using theory for concrete ethical judgments sections. The book concludes with an epilogue, references and appendixes section which outlines the differing existing codes of ethics. Author’s Background and Credentials: Stephen J. Freeman is a professor of Counseling and Chair of the Department of Counselor EducationRead MoreLying On The Couch By Irvin D. A Brief Essay1654 Words   |  7 PagesLying on the Couch by Irvin D. Yalom has been both entertaining and interesting from a counseling standpoint in that it provides a scandalous and as was in most of the cases, a look at what could go wrong if ethics in a clinical counseling setting go awry. Following the characters of Seymour Trotter, Earnest Lash, and Marshal Streider in working with their clients and with each other the ethical lessons to be learned become obviously apparent, if not emotionally painful. Although, numerous issuesRead MoreA Questionnaire for a Child and Family Development Specialist900 Words   |  4 Pagesit is not a practical starting point for providing counseling in child or family development setting. Indeed, practitioners in this field are increasingly finding that traditional conceptions of the American family unit are more limiting and problematic than useful in counseling. This dose promote the challenge, though, of providing counseling where a familys cultural orientation and value system differs dramatically from that of the counseling professional. According to the text by Palm (2009)Read MoreThe Scope Of Competency For Counseling Psychologists1131 Words   |  5 Pagespractice and scope of competency. Included research helps identify and elaborate more specifically on counseling psychologists and how the code of ethics is applied. The scope of practice for counseling psychologists includes helping individuals explore and recognize his/her strengths and identify a fitting-career and/or ways to cope with work problems between others. The scope of competency for counseling psychologists adheres to the same benchmarks that other practicing psychologists must follow, includin gRead MoreEssay on Counseling Ethics804 Words   |  4 Pagespracticing. And even with all this; â€Å"It is more helpful and effective to work within the framework of an established theory†¦practicing counseling without an explicit theoretical rational is somewhat like flying a plane without a map and without instruments. Theoretical orientation should not be a rigid structure that prescribes the specific steps of what to do in counseling, rather, theory should be a set of guidelines that counselors can use to make sense of what they are doing† (Collins1991, 90). ItRead MoreTest Anxiety And Performance That Indicate A Relationship Between Anxiety, Preparation And Test Performance927 Words   |  4 Pagesreasoning, analytical writing and critical thinking skills. (The GRE Test: What You Need to Know 2015). Scores from the GRE are used by graduate school counseling programs to indicate the future success of their students. The Counselor Preparation Comprehensive Examination (CPCE) is a comprehensive standardized test often taken prior to the graduate students completion of their program of study. It is designed to assess counseling students’ knowledge of counseling information viewed as importantRead MoreEthical Analysis : Ethical Competence1121 Words   |  5 Pageswhich determines how well we handle ourselves and each other. In the 1990s Daniel Goleman died research on promoting emotional intelligence as the new yardstick for measuring success at work. Goleman did not forge a strong link between emotions and ethics very forcefully, it is clear that a case can be made for a concept of ethical intelligence giving rise to ethical competence as a step beyond showing how emotional intelligence determines success in the workplace and in society (Berghofer, 2017).Read MoreAbnormal Human Behavior946 Words   |  4 PagesIn reflecting on the above outlined competency, I found myself thinking, with out the existence of abnormal human behavior, my life would not have been as interesting as it currently is. Throughout my adolescent years, primarily through observing others consistently, I was able to develop a profound interest and dedicated pensive thoughts into understanding the cognition and behaviors of human beings. As such, I would spend hours weekly, trying to understand why individuals think differently, seekRead MorePcn 505 Week 4 Paper1665 Words   |  7 PagesCounselor Ethics and Responsibilities Jennifer P Coetzee PCN-505 May 18, 2016 Kendra Stewart Counselor Ethics and Responsibilities Section 1: Counselor Values There are so many different views in opinions when it comes to the topic of abortion. There is the religious point that it is wrong to have an abortion because of the ten commandment that states â€Å"Thou shall not kill.† All have heard this one whether atheist or religious. People’s right to choose abortion or not has been questioned

Development of Intra and Intergroup Judgments †MyAssignmenthelp

Question: Discuss about the Development of Intra and Intergroup Judgments. Answer: Introduction: In many parts of the world, women are underestimated of their capabilities (Mueller, Melwani Goncalo, 2012). The male dominated society has resulted to the portrayal of certain sections of biasness (Baumgartner et al., 2012) . At certain parts of the world, there are norms which prohibit women to drive a car (Gaertner Dovidio, 2014). It might sound ridiculous, but it is true. In the Arabian countries the similar kinds of norms governs the society (Killen et al., 2013). Therefore, I took the initiative of breaking it by driving a car myself. Expected reaction of the people The norm that I broke sprung up reactions that specifically portrayed that I perhaps had committed a blasphemy. The reaction was astonishing, as they looked astounded and mesmerized by the audacity that I could show by breaking the norm. It was as though I was the reason for the degradation of their society and the culture they were into. A steady reaction of the people and the protest could have brought me into trouble as I went against the norms of the society in order to feel myself as a free entity, not subdued by the male dominated society. The male candidates of the society looked at me as though I was trying to snatch the power out of them and the women looked at me as though they pitied me. Setting of the place I was returning from a date with my boyfriend, when I suddenly thought of driving the car. We got out of the restaurant and when he was going to take his seat as the driver, I forcibly snatched the keys out of his hands and went ahead with the gears. The place was filled with visitors of the restaurant, tourists and people belonging to the place. The people were making their visit to the hotel when the incident took place. In order to make it simpler, the security guards of the hotel and the guests of the restaurant were the witness of the incident. Some of the peddlers were also present in the setting. The incident took place at the front of the restaurant where I and my boyfriend went for a date later that evening. As we came out of the restaurant, I felt a sudden surge of driving the car, which was prohibited in the nation. The people looked at me as though I have performed a blasphemy by driving a car in a male dominated nation. I felt like I had conducted a revolution to bring about the change in the mentality and the outlook of the people. I undertook this action in order to portray the capabilities of the females and thereby prove that female candidates are no less than the male ones. Therefore, I desire an equal treatment. I felt in this manner because of the issues that the female has to face in a male dominated society is huge. It seems like the freedom is being subdued by the manacles that never seem to break apart. The people reacted in the same manner as was expected. It was because they were not accustomed with the very sight of a lady driving a car. The assignment has helped me in understanding the different forms of biasness that are prevalent in the society and the people misinterpret them as the norms. References Baumgartner, T., Gtte, L., Ggler, R., Fehr, E. (2012). The mentalizing network orchestrates the impact of parochial altruism on social norm enforcement. Human brain mapping, 33(6), 1452-1469. Gaertner, S. L., Dovidio, J. F. (2014). Reducing intergroup bias: The common ingroup identity model. Psychology Press. Killen, M., Rutland, A., Abrams, D., Mulvey, K. L., Hitti, A. (2013). Development of intra?and intergroup judgments in the context of moral and social?conventional norms. Child Development, 84(3), 1063-1080. Mueller, J. S., Melwani, S., Goncalo, J. A. (2012). The bias against creativity: Why people desire but reject creative ideas. Psychological science, 23(1), 13-17.

History of the Cherokee Indians Essay Example

History of the Cherokee Indians Essay History of the Cherokee Indians: Growth to Reduction of the tribes Mary Ruef Axia College University of Phoenix I would like to provide you with some information regarding the Cherokee Indians. I am one quarter Cherokee Indian. My grandmother is full blooded Cherokee and may mother is one half Cherokee. Cherokee comes from a creek word â€Å"Cherokee† meaning â€Å"people of a different speech† (Cherokee history 1996). There are 561 officially recognized Indian tribes in the United States. The Bureau of Indian Affairs is the largest database of records and histories of Native American tribes in the country. The language of the Cherokee Indian is Iroquian, although the Cherokee language differs slightly from the Iroquian language. Before the coming of the Europeans my family the Cherokee’s were forced to migrate to the southern Appalachians from the northwest after a defeat at the hands of the Iroquois and Delaware. According to Cherokee history, The growth of my hertiage started in the southern Appalachian Mountains including western and North and South Carolina, Northern Georgia and Alabama, Southwest Virginia, and the Cumberland Basin of Tennessee, Kentucky, and Northern Alabama (www. olatsga. org/cherokee. html 1996). The Eastern Cherokee still maintain their reservation in western North Carolina but most live in Oklahoma, Northern Cherokee nation of old Louisiana territory still has almost 12,ooo members and they are recognized by the state of Missouri unlike North Alabama whom do not have federal recognition. We lived in small communities usually near river bottoms. Homes ar e made of wooden frames covered with woven vines and saplings plastered with mud. Each village usually consisted of 30 to 50 log and mud huts. We will write a custom essay sample on History of the Cherokee Indians specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now We will write a custom essay sample on History of the Cherokee Indians specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer We will write a custom essay sample on History of the Cherokee Indians specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer These huts are usually grouped around the village to make a town square, which was known as the council house. â€Å"The council house was seven sided to represent the seven clans of the Cherokee Indians : Bird, paint, deer, wolf, blue, long hair, and wild potato† (smoky mountain mall, 2007). We lived in the dense evergreen forests among the Allegheny and Great Smoky Mountains because these areas were plentiful with game, fish, and plant life. Clothing was made of deer skins. According to the wild west the women farmed corn, beans, squash and sunflowers which they preserved for use year around. Gourds were used as utensils, storage containers and ceremonial rattles. â€Å"Our spiritual belief revolves around a Creator and spirits who embody the sun, moon, and stars. Harvest ceremony is very important to any agricultural tribe† (www. thewildwest. org 2008). A dance known as the Green Corn Dance is held each August to hedge our bet for a good harvest. My native American culture live and love with nature. We created harmony within our environment in what we wear, create, what we eat and how it we prepare it. Our home life is important as well as our beliefs and philosophies. Even though Indian heritage is rich in tradition and culture, many Indians that live on reservations are struggling with a different legacy. According to the American Indian Tragedy more than 300,000 Native Americans are either homeless or living in life threatening conditions. â€Å"American Indians are faced with suicide rate double that of all other nonwhites, and higher levels of school dropouts, alcoholism, and unemployment† (American Indian Tragedy 2008). Many housing for the Indian reservations do not have electricity or running water due to these areas being so isolated. Many of our Indian reservations lack high quality natural resources. Agricultural productivity on Indian lands is less than on similar private lands. Income for us consist of casinos however these casinos are not created equal. Some of the casinos that are tribally owned are economic failures. Some of these casinos are profitable and create millions of dollars or more in profits. According to the American Indian Tragedy the high rate of poverty on many Indian reservations stems from a historical amalgam of federal policies which were intended to push Indians to become civilized. A lot has changed in the Cherokee nation it now has become a leader in housing, education, vocational training, economic development and business. According to the federal government the Cherokee nation has the right to exercise control over their tribal assets. Our assets not only include the 96 miles of the Arkansas River bed but also include 66,000 acres of land. February 10, 1990 a tax code was approved by the Cherokee nation to include sales tax and tobacco tax on all services and goods sold in the Cherokee Indian tribal land. The main purpose of this tax code is to increase the revenue so that they can provide the Cherokee Indians with a better way of life (Cherokee Nation 2008). References Cherokee History. Retrieved from web site www. tolatsga. org/cherokee1. html May 25,2008. Cherokee Nation Cherokee Indians, 2008. Retrieved from web site www. smokymtnmall. com/cherokee_indians/cherokee_nation. shtml May 25, 2008. The Wild West Cowboys and Legends. Retrieved from web site http://thewildwest. org/interface/index. php? action=539 May 25,2008

Alices Adventures in Wonderland A Child Lost in a World of Adults essays

Alices Adventures in Wonderland A Child Lost in a World of Adults essays Lewis Carrolls Wonderland is a queer little universe where a not so ordinary girl is faced with the contradicting nature of the fantastic creatures who live there. Alices Adventures in Wonderland is a childs struggle to survive in the condescending world of adults. The conflict between child and adult gives direction to Alices adventures and controls all the outstanding features of the work- Alices character, her relationship with other characters, and the dialogue. Alice in Wonderland is on one hand so nonsensical that children sometimes feel ashamed to have been interested in anything so silly (Masslich 107). The underlying message of Alices Adventures in Wonderland is a rejection of The character of Alice is not at all like what you would find in a typical childrens book. The character of Alice herself is a bit puzzling, even to the modern child, because it does not fit a stereotype. How much more unusual she must have seemed to Victorian children, used to girl angels fated for death (in Dickens, Stowe, and others), or to impossibly virtuous little ladies, or to naughty girls who eventually reform in response to heavy adult pressure... But Alice is neither naughty nor overly nice. Her curiosity leads her into her initial adventure and most of the latter ones in the book... (Leach 119). As Alice makes her way through Wonderland , she is faced with many pompous personalities that have their own ways of thinking and do not understand why Alice does not agree with their views. Alice takes into consideration what each character says. After becoming quite confused and disgruntled she learns that everyone in Wonderland is in fact mad. Once she has learned this she politely rejects all offers made by characters and tells them how things are in her mind. More often than not, she is chastised for her opinions, but soon ...

Interview a Manager Coursework Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Interview a Manager - Coursework Example He has a degree in economics. He followed it up with a Masters in Business Administration from Harvard Business School. 1. What is the biggest challenge in recruitment and what is your role in the process? How would you modify that role if you could? A: The selection of a candidate with a good blend of technical and interpersonal skills is the biggest challenge. Often, we have people who are very talented but who are not great team players. My role is to facilitate processes that enable the right candidate is selected. I do this by ensuring that the interviewing panel always has people from different functions such as Production, sales, Human Resource etc. Given a chance, I would ask for a third party Human Resource agency to screen out candidates who do not fit into a certain aptitude and attitude profile. This would considerably reduce the load on us. Besides, psychometric and aptitude testing services have matured over the years and their success rates are consistently good. 2. Do you consciously think about how you motivate your employees? What role does positive and negative reinforcement have in your attempts to motivate employees? A: Well, that is a challenge that I face every day. I take care to see that new employees are often taken through an elaborate induction process so that they feel part of the community. For existing employees, I plan and execute specific workshops that blend fun and learning. Additionally, we encourage weekend parties where there is interaction with a larger group of people. Positive reinforcement works better. When there are rewards that accompany good performances, employees are motivated to work better. This can be in the way of non-monetary benefits too. Sanctions and reprimands, punitive measures turn out to be counter-productive at times. We notice a negative reaction to such measures. Throughout our company, we make it a point to emphasize positive reinforcement methods as a way to motivate people. 3. How do you encourag e employees to accept and embrace changes in the work environment such as new software, policies, or procedures? A: We make it a point to keep job rotation options open. Veterans in sales have taken up roles in finance and vice-versa. Agreed, such people are few in number, yet we ensure that such options are open. They help people embrace change quickly. Whenever we have ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) upgrades or other such organization wide developments, we train all the employees through a structured program. Earlier, in the course of an acquisition, the radical change caused a lot of stress. We managed it with heightened levels of re-orientation, induction and familiarization programs. By the end of the actual acquisition process, employees had oriented themselves fully to the new management and policies. 4. Does your organization provide any on-going professional development activities for managers such as financial support for conferences or seminars, tuition-reimbursement, etc? How important is that in your own career development? What would you like your company to offer that it currently does not? A: Yes, our organization stresses the need for continuous knowledge development. As part of this policy, we have structured programs in place. We partially finance employees who undertake higher education degrees in business management when they are conducted

Adolescent therapy for parent-adolescent crises regarding personal Essay

Adolescent therapy for parent-adolescent crises regarding personal freedom - Essay Example 2), and as he/she also encounters other unexpected life events such as sudden change in family structure, changes in the school or in schooling, and accidents that can impinge on his/her well-being. (Dumont & Provost, 1999, p. 343) As adolescents undergo this transitory stage, â€Å"many features of their social world are transformed† (Brown & Huang, 1995, p. 151), of which the most dramatic is no other than peer relations, wherein the teenager establishes his/her standing among peers. (Brown, 1990, p. 171). â€Å"They begin to spend more time with and value their friends more than they used to. Thus, it might seem as if they are starting to cut ties with parents and reject their ideals† (Guzman, 2007, p. 1751). Previous research by Berndt (1979), Hunter & Youniss (1982), Selman (1980) has linked the decline in parental authority over adolescents to the dominance of the peer group (as cited in Smetana & Asquith, 1994, p. 1148), which â€Å"have been found to assume greater importance in adolescence than in middle childhood† (Savin-Williams & Berndt, 1990; Youniss & Smollar, 1989, as cited in Ibid) With this, some theories suggest that adolescents become more independent as the power of family to control them weakens. (Adelson & Doehrman, 1980, Blos, 1979, Freud, 1965, 1969, as cited in Peterson, Bush, & Supple, 1999, p. 431; Freud, 1958, as cited in Brown & Huang, 1995, p. 151) However, a significant number of empirical researches show otherwise. Researches by Baltes and Silverburg (1994), Baumrind (1991), Collins and Repinski (1994), Cooper, Grotevant, and Condon (1983), Grotevant and Cooper (1986) Hill and Holmbeck (1986), Offer, Ostrov, and Howard (1981), Peterson (1995), Sebald (1986), Steinberg (1990), Silverberg and Gondoli (1996), and Youniss and Smollar (1985) revealed that â€Å"adolescent autonomy emerges within a family context in which the young expresses admiration for, seek advise from, and

Examples of Social Responsibility in Business

Examples of Social Responsibility in Business Ethical reasoning is a peoples thinking about right or wrong on human behavior or act. The author gave an example to understand human different approaches on situation under the concepts of duties, rights, and commitment. Morality is determined by the consequences of action. A consequences theory focusses on consequences of human action. Egoism cannot resolve conflicts of interest. The utilitarianism is the greatest amount of happiness for the greatest number. The author gave an example of firm that produced pollution as byproduct to its manufacturing process with both side of argument with government against business people to understand concept of ethics has nothing to do with business, nor business with ethics. The author gave Kantian (a business person) view of breaking a contract is not a moral act. All stakeholders be treated as persons, with respect for their individual dignity. A trust is the correct starting point for the derivation of ethical behavior enables the construction of practical ethics in business and other contexts. The H.B.Fuller is a company that manufacture sniffing glue. In Honduras, the children drugging themselves by sniffing glue. It was easy to get glue through H.B.Fuller company. Honduras faced some economic problems in effort to industrialize. The company has some option to reduce this problem. One was add mustard oil into glue or close the product. The government of Honduras must concentrate on children education to overcome this issue. The H.B.Fuller company was very reputable company and now they have to rebuild their image, moral and philosophy of company. The Milton Friedman gave his view on social responsibility of business is to increase its profit. In a free-enterprise, private-property system, a corporate management is an employee of the owners of the business. He argue that, executive a different social responsibility, rather than serving as an agent of the stockholders or the customers or the employees, only if he spends the money in a different way than they would have spent it. He described political principle under two different mechanism, which are market and political. The Friedman said that executive is exercising a distinct social responsibility, rather than serving as an agent of the stockholders or the customers or the employees, only if he spends the money in a different way than they would have spent it. The Freeman described basic idea of stakeholder that business and executive who manage them, actually do and create value for customers, employees and financiers. The Freeman said about stake is an interest or a share in an undertaking and can be categorized as interest, right and ownership. There are two types of business stakeholders. Primary stakeholders and secondary stakeholders. Primary stakeholders are those that have a direct stake in the organization and its success. Secondary stakeholders re those that have a public or special interest stake in the organization. The Freeman explained responsibility of the executive in managing for stakeholders with a different example. He also described some argument to manage stakeholders. One of the strongest arguments for managing for stakeholders is that it asks executives and entrepreneurs to consider the question of what kind of company they want to create and build. Italian federal corporate tax system has a legal tax structure and tax rates as U.S. system does. The Italian tax authorities believe that no any firms submit tax return. All firms lies about their income and fraud to Italian tax authorities. The Italian corporation is represented by its commercialista, a function which exists in Italian society for the primary purpose of negotiating corporate (and individual) tax payments with the Italian tax authorities. The Italian service did lying and fraud. The negotiation of corporate tax by Italian tax authority managed with commercialista and bustarella, it is wrong action to earned money. The author Bowie described three formulation of fundamental of ethics. Act only on that maxim by which you can at the same time will that it should become a universal law. The Bowie said that if everyone made lying promises, the consequences would be bad although they would. Rather, Kant is saying that the very concept of lying promises, when assumed as a principle by everyone, is confused. The Bowie gave two example to illustrate Kants view. If a maxim for an action when universalized is self-defeating, then the contemplated action is not ethical. That is Kants conceptual point.

Abortion is Not the Reason for Lower Crime Rates Essay -- Argumentativ

What is wrong with the ivory tower? The appointment of Peter ("Death to Disabled Newborns!") Singer to the bioethics faculty at Princeton University has generated considerable controversy. Recently, University of Chicago economist Steven Levitt and Stanford University Law School professor John Donohue III created a furor with their research paper "Legalized Abortion and Crime." The authors contend that legalized abortion fueled the drop in crime in the 1990s because a new subclass of humanity they've identified- "women most at risk to have children who would engage in criminal activity"-have higher abortion rates, thus preemptively executing the would-be felons. This subclass, we are told, is populated predominantly by women who are teens, single and/or African American. Talk about your prenatal racial profiling! The American public is supposed to be grateful to have been spared the cost of not only the crimes, but due process, trial by jury, incarceration, appeals and execution. Â   The paper footnotes even the title with "preliminary and incomplete," and contains all manner of caveats on the "well recognized potential shortcomings of the [crime] data" and concedes the general impossibility of ever proving the asserted causal link with any degree of certainty. Yet it brazenly attempts to put a happy face on the achingly personal and national tragedy that is abortion. That is why articles extolling the findings are popping up throughout the pro-abortion press, while indignant editorials are questioning the authors' eugenicist leanings. It was, after all, Planned Parenthood founder Margaret Sanger who established contraceptive clinics in ghettos so that "defectives" and "human weeds" could be eliminated. Â   Wi... ...gnant, compared to 20 percent of girls in the same age group in D.C. public schools. About 10 percent of the Best Friends participants ages 12-18 had had sex, compared to 72% of their peers. Â   Why the decline in crime in the 1990s? Many plausible explanations have been reported (and given short shrift by the authors), including higher conviction rates and longer prison terms which are keeping repeat offenders off the streets, more police and better policing strategies, decline in the crack cocaine trade and higher expenditures in victim precautions like security guards, alarms, car theft devices, etc. Â   Might I suggest another avenue of research? Let's determine what conditions lead families to produce academics who have no sense of the sanctity and dignity of human life. Some early childhood intervention in values education might really pay off.

Strategic Management of Haigh’s Chocolate

Table of Contents 1. Executive Summary1 2. Current Situation3 3. External Environment4 3. 1 Macro Environment4 3. 2 Porter’s Five Forces Model of Competition8 4. Internal Analysis10 Strength10 Weaknesses14 5. Strategic Factor Analysis Summary (SFAS)17 6. Current strategic21 6. 1 Business-level strategic21 6. 2 Functional-level Strategies23 6. 3 Corporate Level strategies24 7. Recommended strategies26 7. 1 Business-level strategy26 7. 2 Functional Strategy28 7. 3 Corporate strategy31 8. Implementation36 Reference List40 Appendix43Appendix A: External Factors Analysis Summary (EFAS)43 Appendix B: Internal Factor Analysis Summary (IFAS)44 1. Executive Summary The following marketing plan forms the basis for achieving Haigh’s company vision of becoming a successful top quality chocolate confectionary provider. The recommendations based on the analysis contained in this report allows us to outline the best strategies to follow for the achievement of the company’s stra tegic goals. The confectionary industry in Australia is dominated by few large players with fiercely high competition.Whilst the target market Haighs plays – targeting consumers seeking high quality premium chocolate, Haighs is one of very few providers, but the quality of chocolate provided for substitutable brands are also reasonably high. Haighs would need to ensure differentiation in their product quality; brand image, brand loyalty and brand awareness to be competitive within the market place. Haighs being a family owned and operated business, their consistent management style ensures its operational control in all areas of business are strategically aligned.In analysing Haigh’s external and internal strengths and weaknesses, operational efficiency and consistency such as efficiency in production process and stringent quality control process are found to be the main strengths whilst risk of easily being substituted with cheaper chocolate confectionary products and lack of diversified management experience due to being family operated business, are stated to be the main determinant in realizing further success for Haighs.Whilst change of management structure in view of introducing wider range of management experience is outside of this marketing plan’s scope, in order to overcome the determinant analysed, there are number of other areas Haighs can look into. In order to improve efficiency, strengthening of relationship with Haigh’s suppliers is recommended. Whilst Haighs has been successfully maintaining high quality chocolate production, this is required to ensure high quality products are continuously delivered for the future. Cross training of staff to increase labor efficiency is also recommended.Through having staff cross trained, Haighs can enjoy use of less employees and savings will arise from it. Active marketing activities are also encouraged. Haighs can look into wholesale supply into large hotels or exclusive dining places to create economies of scale. Through innovation, it would need to further develop its product in accordance with today’s consumer preference. Low fat, low sugar with high quality chocolate is recommended and opening of Haighs branded cafes that will bring new experience to its consumers are suggested.Haighs being the exclusive chocolate brand with high risk of being substituted into other brand, brand loyalty is the key in Haigh’s success. Launching of loyalty program, discount for seniors, and connecting its customers via social network sites are examples of building brand loyalty for Haighs. The report concludes by providing implementation plan to adopt the above recommendation that will help Haighs to remain competitive, sustainable and successful within its chosen market. 2. Current SituationHaigh's was founded in 1915 in Adelaide, South Australia by Alfred E Haigh and has been successfully run by his son, grandson, and great-grandsons, Alister Haigh who is current CEO. It is the oldest family-owned chocolate manufacturing retailer in Australia and one of the very few manufacturing retailers in the world still making chocolates from raw cooa beans and more than half of their chocolates are handmade, using artisan skills that require many years of experience to perfect (Haight's Chocolates). Haigh’s vision is delivering a world-class chocolate experience every time (Haigh's Chocolates).Its value is that they will be caring and considerate of their employees, customers, suppliers, shareholders, the community and the environment by showing respect to each other and valuing diversity, working together to achieve a safe, friendly and positive working environment, setting clear expectations, recognising contribution and developing their people, leading by example and taking responsibility for their actions, communicating clearly, inclusively, honestly and in a timely manner, having pride in their product and passion for the business, its heritage and its future and contributing to the community through corporate benevolence and environmentally sustainable practices (Haigh's Chocolates). Haigh’s chocolate currently has over 300 employees and 13 retail stores; six in Adelaide, six in Melbourne and one in Sydney (Haight's Chocolates). They manufacture 200 different products and also produce a number of products whose sales supports various charities. (Soong-Kroeger, 2011)Haigh’s Chocolate provides quality products and service throughout Australia and make sure to produce only the best raw materials from start to finish, and stationing agents in Europe for first pick of the finest imported cocoa beans is only the beginning. They are fairly well vertically integrated. They make chocolates and then transport or arrange for them to be transported to their own retail shops, which mean that they control the whole process to ensure that their customers get the highest quality and freshest products (OrmanSas ha, 2011). 3. External Environment External environment is an uncontrollable element that effects an operation.However, by carefully analyzing external factors that relate to the company’s industry, a company would deal with uncertainty in the market and be able to take appropriate actions to any upcoming events. 3. 1 Macro Environment Political/ Legal Confectionery manufacturers are required to follow significant regulatory restraints especially in relation to food safety, product labeling, occupational health and safety, competition and consumer law, employment law as well as taxation policies. The regulatory requirements are sources of cost increase to manufactures. However, the regulations are necessary in order to guarantee the right for consumers, employees, competition and the quality of products.Failure to follow regulations might lead to significant negative publicity that can damage the reputation and brand of the company. Product safety regulations: Chocolate and c onfectionery manufacturers must strictly follow food and health regulations. The regulations are aimed at maintaining high levels of food hygiene and protecting the consumers against health threats related to unsafe food. Confectionery manufactures are currently regulated by Food Standards Australia New Zealand. This regulatory organization is responsible for the implementation of the Australia New Zealand Joint Food Standards Code (IBISWorld, 2010). The Code also requires industry manufactures to comply with labeling requirements and serving size restrictions.In particularly, agreement with the Code demands manufacturers to supply information on the percentage share of ingredients used, nutritional information or any materials that might cause allergy like nuts. These requirements have been broadly censured for putting extra costs on manufacturers in the industry. However, with consumer groups reinforcing their demands for more nutritional instruction on product labels, the industr y is required to put more attention in implementing the regulation. Besides regulations relating to health and safety or employment, confectionery manufacturers also must conform to environmental regulations set out by the Federal and State governments.These regulations include water usage, energy usage; wastewater disposal and the treatment of waste resulting from manufacture process. Economic At a difficult time of the economic uncertainty in Europe and the USA, Australia continues to have stable and favorable economic growth. The real GDP, which grew by 1. 3% in the first quarter of 2012 over the previous quarter, demonstrates the stability of household consumption expenditure (IBISWorld, 2010). The increase in consumer spending might reinforce sales revenue of the industry. Given that, consumers of Haigh’s chocolate might not need to concern about cutting their spending on premium chocolate products and going for cheaper brands in the market.Raw materials including cocoa, sugar, milk, flavorings, sweeteners and oils represent primary inputs in the production process and any changes in their price affects industry supply. In confectionery industry, sugar is a primary input in the manufacturing process and an increase in the price of sugar will significantly impact production costs. Higher sugar prices recently will reduce manufacturing profitability unless firms can pass these costs on consumers. However, the trading environments in Australia and overseas are highly competitive, there is usually limited opportunity for manufacturers to raise selling price for their products. Moreover, the increases of post-production expenses in advertising and marketing campaigns will also unfavorably affect company’s profitability.As can be seen, the confectionery industry in Australia is highly competitive with a large number of new product lines introduced by various industry players; therefore existing manufactures in the industry need to create more exte nsive promotions and marketing programs. Socio-cultural Two key factors affect domestic demand and consequently determine future consumption structures is lifestyle change especially health consciousness and changing demographic form of the Australian population. The trend of public awareness about health and nutrition for food products is having an adverse effect on demand for sugar-based confectionery products like chocolate. Australians have become more attentive to their consuming food and account for factors such as sugar and fat content, quality of ingredients before deciding on a brand or product.Nutritional factors can affect sales revenue therefore companies in the industry are forced to be more innovative in producing low-sugar products and using organic material to meet the demand of health conscious consumers. Changing demographics of the Australian population also may affect the industry. Ageing population is growing dramatically in Australia as can be seen proportion o f young people will fall drastically while senior citizens will increase by up to 1% per year. Typically, young people tend to consume more confectionery products compared to the elderly, as people tend to develop a preference for savory food with age (IBISWorld, 2010). The result of ageing population’s raising might lead to lower total sales of the confectionery products.In general, an increase in disposable income will force spending on discretionary goods such as confectionery. According to Australian Bureau of Statistics, in the March 2012, national disposable income increased 3. 5% compared to the same period of last year (IBISWorld, 2010). However, a growth in income may also encourage consumers to change to more expensive and premium chocolates rather than increase the volume of confectionery purchased. Technology The introduction and the adoption of new technology have improved cost and operating efficiencies as well as reduced the need for labor for manufacturing, st oring, delivery and distribution. Keeping the basic production process, chocolate manufactures are using new technology to develop their recipe.Automation and computer directed controls also have been used widely in the production process to be more time efficiency and greater quality control (IBISWorld, 2010). The introduction of quality assurance systems such as Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) has helped the food industry in improving safety standard. Product safety plays an essential role in preserving the industry’s reputation as a healthy and reliable food manufacturer. In regard to marketing and distribution systems, E-commerce is used by manufacturers to improve customer and supplier arrangements and networks, leading to cost savings through better inventory and production planning. The widespread of social network also creates a new way for manufactures in marketing, building brand and reinforcing relationship with consumers.Environmental Raw materials of chocolate production including cocoa, sugar, and milk are natural sources; therefore a change in climate will considerably impact on the industry. Natural disasters like flood, drought might result in scarcity of a resource and force its price to an unfavorable level to manufactures. Moreover, consumers nowadays are more aware of environmental sustainability. They likely prefer to use environment friendly brands or products in order to reduce the negative impacts on the environment. As a result, confectionery manufacturers have been attempting to â€Å"go green† by using recyclable or reusable packages for their products.In particularly, Haigh’s chocolate has committed not to use any plastic bags to reduce the environmental effects of packaging on the environment (Haigh's Chocolates). The company also stated that in order to be energy efficiency, rainwater is collected and stored in large underground tanks, then filtered and converted into steam providing indirect h eat for cooking processes. In addition, their recent factory upgrade was designed to consider energy and water conservation. The major sources of food industry waste include packaging, fats, oils, syrups, nuts, candied fruits, dusts and powders. Manufactures need to reduce environmental impacts associated with waste disposal and consumption of resources by waste management programs.Furthermore, the effort in saving energy also help manufactures in reducing energy costs and minimizing energy-related greenhouse gas emissions. 3. 2 Porter’s Five Forces Model of Competition Power of Buyers: Medium Australian confectionery producers sell their products to two major purchasing groups: large retail outfits and wholesalers including large supermarket chains (Coles, Woolworth, Big W, Target, Kmart), convenience stores, petrol stations, and department stores (IBISWorld, 2010). However, instead of selling products to large retail stores, Haigh’s chocolate has integrated forward i n the market and have its own retail stores. The main purchasers of the company are individual buyers who have noticed Haigh’s unique quality products and exclusive taste.By having good awareness of the brand and finding it is hard to get this quality products from others, the buyers would not easily switch to other brands therefore it lowers their bargaining power. (Low) Low switching cost due to the buyers can easily switch to other substitutes such as cookies, ice cream, and snack foods. (High) As consumers are more aware of health and nutrition for food products, demand for sweets and chocolate, which have high level of cholesterol and sugar–contained, would reduce. Healthier food might be preferred in consumers’ choices. (High) Large retailers like Coles and Woolworth would be potential threats if they implemented backward integration (Low) Power of Suppliers: LowThe primary materials in manufacturing of chocolate are cocoa, sugar and milk. Referring to sug ar and milk, there are various suppliers of these sources available in the region or country; therefore supplier concentration and differentiation of inputs are low. (Low) There are also various cocoa farms around the world especially in the developing countries; therefore the chocolate manufactures are important purchasers of these suppliers. As a result, the chocolate suppliers’ bargaining power is typically low. Nonetheless, as Haigh’s chocolate requires premium quality of cocoa, which is only produced by a small part of suppliers in the world, the bargaining power of high-quality cocoa beans suppliers will be stronger. High) Moreover, chocolate manufacturers might not avoid the threat of suppliers could vertically integrate forward to take part manufactures’ role. (Low) Threats of New Entrants: Low The threats of new entrants are low due to the barriers to entry are high. Entry into the premium chocolate market would require new entrants a large capital inve stment for branding and product facilities. Furthermore, new entrants also have to face with major players in the market with a long history and success. These dominant companies enjoy high brand and customer loyalty and have significant resources to invest in advertising and promotions to protect and grow their market share.In addition, these companies also have built strong relationship with main suppliers in the industry including grocery stores and supermarkets that would be challenging for new entrants to secure. (Low) Government regulations and policies about food safety and quality of products might be costly and difficult for new entrants to enter in the industry (Medium) Competitive Rivalry: High The intensity of rivalry among competitors in an industry can create price wars, advertising battles, new product lines, and higher quality of customer service. The Chocolate manufacturing industry is extremely competitive, with the major players aggressively competing for market s hare.Haigh’s chocolate has potential competitors including large-scale or international companies like Nestle, Kraft Foods, Mars, Lindt chocolate, Cadbury as well as several imported brands. In a competitive environment, there is usually limited opportunity for manufacturers to implement selling price increases for their products due to price sensitivity of consumers. Consumers can easily switch their preferences for a premium brand to a lower-priced substitute. Furthermore, it is also hard for Haigh’s chocolate to compete with these huge companies who have distributed their products widely in large supermarkets with cheaper price range for similar products. Substitutes: HighThe chocolate industry must compete with different ranges of substitute products including snack foods, cakes, cereal, and biscuits as well as substitute brands. The large number of substitutes makes manufacturers feel hard to increase their products’ price as consumer can easily switch to c heaper substitutes. In addition, the change in lifestyle of being more health consciousness would switch the spending of consumers in sweet or chocolate products to healthier substitutes. The External Factor Analysis Summary (EFAS) is included in Appendix 1. 4. Internal Analysis The internal analysis process is aimed to point out the sustainable competitive advantages of the company.The advantages can be achieved when a firm has the ability to undertake value-creating activities and use its unique resources and capabilities to create new core competencies. Haigh’s has a long-standing history and has strong resources that create its competitive advantages. Haigh’s resources including tangible and intangible which are analysed to define its capabilities and core competencies in the chocolate market. Strength History ‘Haigh’s chocolates is an Australian brand associated with fine chocolate, premium gifts and outstanding retail experiences. Haigh’s choc olates are predominantly retailed through their own retail network’. Haigh’s prides itself on a long history of premium quality, consistency over its 87 years of operation. It is a privately owned family business.This history of quality and consistency aids to a competitive advantage over a number of other chocolate manufacturers and distributors, and assist in high customer loyalty and increasing profits. Quality Haigh’s targets itself as a premium and quality brand. Their major strength in their market is the quality and consistency of their production and their ability to maintain the level of outstanding quality over the course of its long history. Haigh’s manufacturers their chocolate as a premium chocolate brand. They manufacture their chocolate as a traditional small batch manufacture; therefore it is not mass-produced and has a greater quality and level of control over all products.The ingredients are all high quality local produce including cocoa beans, sugar and milk, which are then manufacturer into premium chocolate. It is an Australian made product with entirely Australian ingredients and packaging, which is another strength to increase customer loyalty and satisfaction. Customer Service Haigh’s promotes itself through great customer service, training is provided to all staff members with focus on customer service and product knowledge. Throughout Australia they employ 120 staff members and each staff member is provided with a high level of training upon employment and throughout the duration of their employment in the company. On purchasing a product, customers are handed a chocolate they have not tried with a white glove.This gesture adds to the premium brand image and creates an atmosphere, which customers want to return. Having customers try a chocolate they haven’t tasted increases repeat customers and high customer loyalty. Haigh’s does have limited marketing, its main focus is on in-store mar keting, and therefore this extra service does provide great in-store marketing and creates customers to be aware of products they have known about, and therefore repeat purchases. Control of production and distribution process Haigh’s being a private family run business gives them the strength of having the ability to control the whole production and distribution process.They control the production right through from purchasing raw materials, manufacturing, distribution, and retail to the final end consumer without any other distribution involved. Therefore if Haigh’s chose to outsource some production and distribution services they would loose total control over their products. Having total control and ownership allows them to ensure total quality and consistency over every product manufactured and distributed. Diversification of products and prices Haigh’s product range, ranges from very small packages retailing for a few dollars to large premium packages cost ing over a hundred dollars. It does have products to suit all price ranges.Having this large product range allows them to target a large number of consumer groups. Although they do have a large product range, their primary focus has been on the expensive premium products in previous years. As a result of the global financial crisis sales dropped in the smaller items, however they weren’t greatly affected by the premium products. During this time consumers were still spending on luxury chocolate products. Economic factors During times of economic decline, consumer spending does decrease. However with Haigh’s large product list, it does allow them to focus on products that consumers want to purchase during a period of decline.During the global financial crisis consumers were not spending money the lower cost products, however they were still spending on luxury products and gifts. Therefore during this time a high focus was put on the premium luxury products to maintain p rofit levels. During a time of economic decline Haigh’s does not reduce its prices. This is done to retain their reputable brand image of high quality premium products. Environmental Today consumers are becoming more environmentally aware and trends are rising in this field. Haigh’s understands that they can make a change in the practices. Haigh’s is highly focused on environmental factors and a lot of consideration is involved with the production, distribution and production of their products.Haigh’s has a strong commitment to several environmental issues including sponsorship and financial support for the bilby, a threatened marsupial native to Australia. They were the first ones to produce the bilby for Easter, it is now a continued tradition, and has created extreme awareness about the endangered marsupial. They have a policy of using recycled or recyclable packaging material and have their own internal recycling program, they carefully consider the i mpact it’s packaging and distribution methods have on the environment and on the community. ‘Haigh’s chocolates has long been concerned about the minimization and sustainability of packaging choices.The principles reflected in the Sustainable packaging guideline have been incorporated in the design, selection and planning of their packaging for many years Therefore their action are designed not around changing the processes but more around formalizing the recording and reporting behind these processes (Haigh's Chocolates). Packaging Haigh’s packages their products in a very cost effective manner however still enhancing their premium product model. The majority of products are packaged in white boxes, with brown tissue paper with a Haigh’s sticker. During Christmas and Easter and other major holidays, thick colorful foil is used for eggs and other products, this creates a premium look, it cuts costs from using boxes and they can distribute more for l ess. For premium products and gifts, tins are used. This is costly however these are used for the high end products. Online storeHaigh’s online store is a key strength for their consumer base and their distribution; they currently operate in 3 states with 6 stores. This is highly limiting for consumers in outside regions. The website offers consumers all the facts on their chocolate including company history, the chocolate, and the current products available. It also allows them to purchase the products therefore highly increasing their distribution levels. Brand image Haigh’s focus on quality, consistency and customer service has lead to a very highly trusted and recognized brand in Australia. This has been a major aid in sales increase and customer relationship solidification. Haigh’s marketing and promotion is through in-store and word of mouth marketing.The company does not focus on mass media campaigns and yet the brand has still managed to grow very consis tently. It is the quality of customer experience and product quality, which accelerates the companies growth. It is unsure as to whether increased advertising and promotion would support the brand or whether it would get rid of the exclusivity and luxurious image the brand currently represents. Weaknesses Market Entry To enter into the market it is relatively easy for competitors. It has low costs to set up a retail store, however competing can be difficult and they are up against the high brand image, quality, history, taste and the consistency of competitors’ products.No outside executive team Haigh’s is a private family owned business; therefore there is no outside executive team. The family is in total control, there is no external chief executive that can come and make changes if required, and an outside perspective could possibly enhance and develop the business further. Raising capital As it is a private company, in order to raise extra capital can be very diffi cult. One Product Company Haigh’s is a one-product company selling chocolate, which therefore reduces their target market significantly. Through expanding their product range their could therefore expand their target market thus increasing profits.This extension could be done through related product such as cookbooks, utensils and serving plates. Shop Locations Haigh’s currently operates in Victoria, New South Wales and South Australia with 6 stores, therefore they are not a majorly well-known brand in the chocolate industry, and based on industry data they represent only 1. 1% of the total Australian chocolate market. Through expansion of their stores in more states and territories in malls and up market suburbs within Australia could significantly enhance and develop the business, and create greater brand awareness. Marketing Haigh’s marketing is virtually exclusive through the shops, not a well-known advertiser on television, radio or print media generally.Th is as a result saves a lot in marketing costs, however does not highly promote the brand. The cost of not having outside marketing may be overridden through the increase of profits they may receive if they were to further promote the brand. Haigh’s could focus on low cost marketing to support an expansion in the stores, getting their products to the consumers would greatly increase profits. Haigh’s competitive advantages Haigh’s has a number of advantages over competing organization. The main advantages being consistency of product/ their long history and the overall brand image. The brand image is one of premium and luxury products. It portrays to consumers a sense of profit compared to other companies.Seasonal products and collectors items are very expensive, however due to Haigh’s brand name, specific consumers want to purchase the deluxe items offered, which other chocolate companies do not offer. Lindt chocolate used to have a very expensive and prem ium brand name. However now that they have expanded and is readily available and predominantly on sale, the quality theme has disappeared whereas Haigh’s has retained their premium image. Core competencies Haigh’s competencies are that of production and good quality chocolate products. Their major competency is their quality and consistency of production, which has remained at the same level for many decades.The core products remain the same over time; seasonal items such as during Christmas and Easter can change from year to year. At the retail end, their high quality packaging, shop design and product design is a major expertise of Haigh’s, whish high quality and reliability. Their product presentation is consistent; when new products are available there is an expectation that it will match the high quality range. Their tours in Adelaide highly promote the skills and capabilities of Haigh’s, the public see how they make the product range for free, revea ling to the public how good its product capabilities are, especially in Adelaide which is highly competitive and hard to compete. Tangible and Intangible resources and capabilitiesHaigh’s primary activity is the manufacturer, retailer and distributor of high quality chocolates, with retail outlets and distribution across Australia and online. Tangible resources Haigh’s has to majorly rely on their own ability to raise funds though their own capital, which is a pitfall, as if they wanted to expand in order to build their brand it is quite difficult. Their organic and local sourced ingredients are the most important resource to continue the quality and consistency of their products. These ingredients are the core resource for Haigh’s as they are a one-product company. Ensuring the same quality and consistency throughout their products relies heavily on their raw ingredients. Recipes are provided through the shop, highly builds the brand.Recipes for different choco late desserts are complementary for customers. All manufacturing equipment is of high standard to produce the high quality and consistent chocolate. Intangible Haigh’s has a team of experienced chocolate makers and retail staff that bring their knowledge and skills together to build a dynamic company and retail know how. Their innovation towards sustainable packaging and creating awareness about Australia’s endangered animal the Bilby has been a significant resource. Both the tangible and intangible resources all result in helping to promote value adding activities and an overall profitable company with a strong brand image. The Internal Factor Analysis Summary (IFAS) is in Appendix 2 5.Strategic Factor Analysis Summary (SFAS) External Factors| Weight| Rating| Weighted Score| Comments| Opportunities| New innovation and advanced technology| 0. 05| 5| 0. 25| Assist the company in production efficiency and reduce costs. | Current stable economic growth in Australia/ consu mers’ confidence| 0. 04| 3| 0. 12| Reinforce the spending of consumers in discretionary goods. | Availability of materials/suppliers| 0. 04| 4| 0. 16| Lower the bargaining power| High demand in Asian market| 0. 03| 3| 0. 09| Open up new market/ expansionary | Threats| Extremely competitive environment| 0. 06| 5| 0. 3| Need to be more innovative| Increase consumers’ health consciousness| 0. 3| 4| 0. 12| Decline the demand of consumers for high sugar, cholesterol, fat products | Various substitutes/Low switching costs| 0. 05| 4| 0. 2| Decline the sale revenue, brand loyalty| Government regulations| 0. 02| 1| 0. 02| Costly, create limitations| Natural disasters | 0. 02| 2| 0. 04| Effect the price of raw materials| Increase in costs of raw material/ costs of advertisings/ labors | 0. 04| 3| 0. 12| Increase products’ price, the company might have to pass these cost to consumers| Strength| History| 0. 02| 1| 0. 02| Long history of quality and consistency strengthens b rand image and customer loyalty. | Quality products| 0. 05| 5| 0. 5| Uses high quality raw materials to produce the finest chocolate and is very consistent with the level of quality for every product range. | Customer service| 0. 05| 5| 0. 25| Highly trained staff in providing a high level of customer service, enhances brand image and reputation. | Total control over production and distribution| 0. 05| 4| 0. 2| Allows Haigh’s to ensure total quality and consistency over every product manufactured and distributed. | Diversification of products and prices| 0. 05| 4| 0. 2| Broadens target market. Ability to attract a large number of consumers. | Economic factors| 0. 02| 2| 0. 04| There is no significant decrease in sales during times of economic decline. | Environmentally sound| 0. 02| 3| 0. 6| High focus on the environment using environmentally friendly products and distribution methods. Creates awareness of the endangered Australian native Bilby. | Packaging| 0. 02| 3| 0. 06| Uses a cost effective approach while still maintaining a premium and luxury brand image. | Online store| 0. 03| 4| 0. 12| Enables distribution of products to reach a broader range of consumers who are not within the vicinity of store locations. | Brand Image| 0. 04| 5| 0. 2| Key to building long lasting customer relationships and for attracting new customers. | Weakness| Market entry| 0. 04| 3| 0. 12| Easy for competitors to enter market, relatively low costs to set up retail store. No outside executive team| 0. 04| 2| 0. 08| Haigh’s being a privately owned family company has not outside team, which may affect decisions and growth. | Raising capital| 0. 02| 2| 0. 04| | One product company| 0. 05| 4| 0. 2| Through expanding their product range their could therefore expand their target market thus increasing profits. | Shop locations| 0. 05| 3| 0. 15| Limited shop locations, limiting the availability to consumers. | Marketing| 0. 07| 3| 0. 21| Marketing is through in-store and word of mouth. Marketing increase could create a larger customer base. | Total weighted score| 1. 0| | 3| | 6. Current strategic 6. 1 Business-level strategicWhen the company has determined its mission and vision, analysed the external environment and recognised internal strengths and weaknesses, management has to select appropriate strategies. To choose strategies should generate a competitive advantage in order to maximise the market value of the existing owners' equity (Hilier et al. , 2009). Business-level strategies, functional-level strategies and corporate strategies are the component in the strategy management. The main focus of Business-Level strategy is deciding which product or service to offer and how to distribute it. It is clear that Haigh’s chocolate focuses primarily on differentiation as its Business-Level Strategy. Own production lineAustralia does not have a viable cocoa growing industry so the beans are imported from overseas. Haigh’s is a family bu siness that is small enough to take delicate care in each process to ensure that they deliver the best quality chocolate. They protect their production line from getting the best cocoa from Europe and using their own chocolate manufacturing before distributing to their own retail stores, making this a good example of product differentiation, hence the higher price. At Haigh’s chocolate store, the differentiated product is the entire service, the quality chocolate and the experience in the store, not just the product directly purchased. Product DifferentiationUnlike cost leadership strategies, product differentiation aims to produce goods and services that customers perceive as being different in important ways. To build a successful product differentiation strategy, it is key to be able to continuously and consistently upgrade the differentiated features. Haigh’s has approximately 250 different product lines that rotate throughout the year (Natalise, 2012). The differe nt stores in different regions have their own preferences and are able to produce their own chocolate flavour according to the differing demands on their customers. Delivery system Haigh’s chocolate also offers delivery, costing an additional amount determinate upon the weight of the chocolate.This can be very convenient for customers as although the cost is quite high, customers are able to choose the Haigh’s product as a gift for others due to the high quality of the chocolate. Haigh’s should look to implement more control over this delivery system with the potential to include dry ice or other temperature controlled delivery vehicles to ensure the chocolate is kept at its high quality during the delivery process. Differentiated customer service To build up customer loyalty to the company, Haigh’s chocolate is able to create a differentiated service for them. We treat everyone with respect whether they are coming in for a $1. 20 chocolate frog or a $100 box of chocolate. We give a world class experience. (Orman, 2012).In addition, around 40,000 customers visited Haigh’s chocolate every year, Haigh’s is able to give a different customer experience centred around the quality of the chocolate and encourage many customers to experience new or different chocolates but offering a free chocolate factory tour with samples. 6. 2 Functional-level Strategies Functional-level strategies consider a company's ability to attain â€Å"superior efficiency, quality, innovation, and customer responsiveness† (Hanson et al, 2011). Haigh’s chocolate also implements lean thinking process for the manufacturing strategy which enables to minimise non-productive activity and doing it right the first time. This strategy has been credited as a significant reason behind the recent success. (Austin, 2010) ProductionConsidering the production and due to the large number of products, they are able to spread high fixed costs of warehous ing and delivery to the retail stores around Australia. Moreover, learning effects are stable due to a consistent management, considering the order processing, Haigh’s chocolate is working very efficiently, too. High-quality automated chocolate factory increase the functionality of bringing the product to the end-user immensely Marketing From a marketing perspective, Haigh’s chocolate is the family company but applies a very efficient branding strategy. Good branding strategies are important for a business, because brands represent â€Å"consumers† perceptions and feelings about a product† (Jager, 2010). The company was able to build trust in Australia.Haigh’s chocolate is updated online often and efficiently, on the other hand due to the small number of the retail stores available around different area in Australia, they are given different advertising camping to keep customer loyal and engaged. Furthermore, Haigh’s chocolate also focuses on improving the brand awareness. Customer Responsiveness Customer responsiveness includes knowledge and acknowledgement about what the customer needs (Siegel, 2002). Furthermore, it is important not to compromise long-term profitability. Superior customer responsiveness will be achieved through superior efficiency, superior quality and superior innovation (Hansen et al, 2011).Through Haigh’s website, the design enhances their focus on customer needs and assists the company to detect better ways to satisfy them. Haigh’s chocolate is always looking for a new flavour of chocolate to fill up customer needs, making a variety of chocolate is the way to keep customer keeping coming back. Haigh’s chocolate store is also focused on providing a different theme at different periods to impress the customer in-store experience. Haigh’s chocolate is doing amazing job on their window display to attract customers, such as Sydney CBD store always has an eye-catching displa y to customer who walk past the store. 6. 3 Corporate Level strategiesConcentration on a single business The corporate strategy of Haigh’s chocolate is concentrated on a Single Business. Haigh’s chocolate focuses on its new technology, managerial and customer demand to stay in the strong competitive environment has made the company famous throughout Australia. Haigh’s chocolate makes quality chocolate through new technology introduced in their chocolate factory. The use of only the highest quality ingredients make sure the customer enjoys the best quality chocolate. Haigh’s believes in quality from start to finish. Haigh’s chocolate comes from the first pick of best cocoa beans in Europe and deliver the best raw material from the start.Haigh’s has a large variety of chocolate ranging from small chocolate frogs up to $100 gift hampers, there is a huge range of different chocolate varieties with a great price range to suit all customers budget s. There’s something for everyone in our shops (orman, 2012). Haigh’s produces their own chocolate in their factory located in Adelaide. Through only producing one product it allows the company to heavily focus on its managerial, financial, technological and physical resources in producing only chocolate. Tapered integration Haigh’s chocolate is considered as Tapered integration, for example Haigh’s chocolate imports the raw cocoa beans from overseas.Comprised of a chocolate maker and a transport company to arrange for the transportation to either individual customers in the case of online purchases or to retail shops, therefore the company has control of the whole process to ensure that their customers get the highest quality and freshest products. Using their own company supplier gives better control over the inputs and outputs in the operation. This control ensures that the Haigh’s chocolate family brand maintains a level of quality that it woul d not be able to guarantee if it were using suppliers that were not owned by the company. A strong level of quality control, and as such they can be certain that every part of the production process is line up to the aspect of Haigh’s chocolate.Its vertical integration has built strong barriers to entry, which enables to protect its product quality and make it costly for a company to enter the industry. International strategy Haigh’s chocolate has no international market so far since they have failed get into the Japanese market due to the certain issues such as pricing and developing new products for a different market. A further push from the company is expected in the next few years; however the Japanese mistake did cost the company a lot of money. A push into the Asian market, most likely to China or India, is expected in the next few years due to the high potential of growth in these markets with the potential recovery of the Asian markets. 7. Recommended strategi es 7. Business-level strategy The business level strategy is ‘an integrated and coordinated set of commitments and actions design to gain a competitive advantage by exploiting core competencies in specific, individual and product markets’. The following recommendations for Haigh’s will effectively exploit their core competencies. (Hanson et al, 2011). The key issues include what products and services to offer consumers, how to manufacture their product and how they are going to distribute their product’. (Hanson et al, 2011). These areas have been effectively obtained by Haigh’s however needs further enhancement and development to improve and grow the brand.From analysing Haigh’s current business level strategies it has been identified that Haigh’s is strongly focused on differentiated products. This has been a major strength for Haigh’s focusing solely on this model, and targeting a specific target market. It is strength howeve r in order to further expand the brand, broadening their selected target market would be highly beneficial and profitable. The implementation of the differentiation strategy has lead to a sustainable competitive advantage. They are one of the highest quality chocolate companies in Australia and need to continue with this strategy in the future to continue with the growing success and profitability of the company. Introduce new cost competitive product lineHaigh’s is a one-product business, therefore making it difficult to expand their target market and reach different groups of customers. Through implementing a larger product range it would be highly beneficial and profitable for the company. The brand image that Haigh’s currently has is one of very high quality. Therefore products need to be introduced that are related and at the same standard. Products that could be introduced into the business would include. Cook books, chocolate cooking utensils and serving plates. Chocolate cook books should be sold which would inspire customers to cook using Haigh’s chocolate. Haigh’s could also release their own cookbook from using the hundreds of recipes they have offered in store over the years.Cooking utensils such as chocolate molds, tempering machines, chocolate kits etc. Through adding these extra products to their product range it would highly boost sales and create a higher consumer interest for the brand. The implementation of these extra products to the line would not be a difficult task as they have most established areas such as distribution, retail outlets and staff. Haigh’s would just need to find suppliers for the products. Differentiated customer service Haigh’s customer service is an area that is highly successful and profitable to the company. Haigh’s creates a differentiated service for customers that is very unique to their company.This area within the company is recommended to remain at that same leve l of quality. Customers are treated with extreme respect no matter what you are spending within the store. They provide a ‘world-class experience’. Upon purchase they are handed a chocolate in a white glove. This encourages customers to experience new or different chocolates. Haigh’s does need to focus on this area as they must ensure the quality and consistency of their customer service remains the same over time, and throughout all stores. It is highly important as this may determine weather or not customers return to a Haigh’s store. Delivery system Haigh’s chocolate does offer delivery, which does cost extra determined by the weight of the chocolate.This is convenient for customers who live outside the region where Haigh’s does not have a store. The additional price of delivery is quite expensive. As Haigh’s chocolate is expensive this extra cost means that it is not a preferred method for consumers and is not a highly profitable a rea for Haigh’s. It is also hard to transport packaged chocolate, due to temperature requirements. Haigh’s currently operates in 3 states in Australia. Victoria, South Australia and New South Wales. In the future Haigh’s should look at expanding their retail stores to other states and territories including, Western Australia, Northern Territory, Queensland and Australian capital territory.Through having retail stores across every state and territory across Australia it would be highly beneficial. It would expand their brand and customers. In order to become a more profitable business, Haigh’s needs to expand their store locations and introduce a large number of new consumers to the company. This process would initially be very expensive, however upon establishment it would be highly profitable to the company. Their main core competency is that of production and good quality chocolate products. Their quality and consistency of production, which has remaine d at the same level for many decades. At the retail end, their high quality packaging, shop design and product design is a major expertise of Haighs.Haighs needs to focus on their core competencies and effectively advertise to their selected target market to create more awareness about their brand and products. The recommended strategies will exploit Haighs core competencies and will help develop a stronger brand. 7. 2 Functional Strategy * Efficiency Keep practising the lean production Haigh’s chocolate so far has applied well significant strategies to maintain their efficiency in the manufacturing process. As can be seen, Haigh’s has adopted the lean production with the attempt to eliminate waste and to cut down non-productive activity and errors of products (Austin, 2010). The lean production also assists the company in using efficiently resources of labor, materials, space and time.It is recommended that besides continuing to practice the lean production, Haighâ₠¬â„¢s should start to analyze and focus on what they can do best or what product lines have more interest from consumers in order to maximize productivity. Strengthen relationship with supplier of key inputs The price of raw inputs like sugar and cocoa can be highly volatile due to uncertainties in the external environment such as weather, season, industry competitors or global economy. Contracts with suppliers will help the company to guarantee the price and availability of raw materials if any unpredictability events might occur in the market. Start applying the learning effects to improve labor productivity Learning effect will help the company in diminishing the cost of production per unit as more output will be produced per labour unit over the same amount of labour hours’ input.The learning effect not only requires labours but also managers to be involved in the production process. Managers will get used to with the process and be able to use the resources and arrange t he production process more efficiently thus leading to more output for the same amount of input. In order to carry out the learning effect, the company needs to start with comprehensive training program that enables their employees to perform multi tasks within each store such as cashiering, stocking and sales presentation. When staffs are flexible with the tasks they can do, the retail store could reduce the cost of labour. Being more incentive in marketing plans Effective marketing will help the company to seize larger market share.Haigh’s has been carrying out their marketing strategy based on in-store promotion and word of mouth. This strategy assists Haigh’s in saving cost; however, the company has not represented a remarkable market share in the industry. For example, with consumers who live in suburbs of NSW where Haigh’s stores do not exist, they properly are not aware of the brand and are not willing to travel too far to purchase the products that they would get conveniently from local supermarket. The common marketing tools would be applied to kindle new interest in existing product lines including social media and free gifts inside packaging, event sponsorship or taking part in food expos.For distribution channel, Haigh’s also can extend their supply to large purchasers such as up-scale hotels that require high quality products rather than just focus on individual buyers. Haigh’s premium products will be suitable for five-star hotel market. With this channel, Haigh’s will be able to sell larger amount, which would create economic of scale for the company. * Innovation Catch the consumers’ trend Failure to seize the consumers’ trends might lead to failure of the business. Consumers nowadays are having more awareness of health and nutrition in consumption decisions. In order to satisfy that need, Haigh’s need to be more innovative about the low-fat and low-sugar chocolate segment.Furthermo re, Haigh’s also can reduce the portion size of their product lines by producing â€Å"a small version† of original products in order to lessen the calories intake of consumers. It is also necessary for Haigh’s to promote the benefits of cocoa and dark chocolate to health in particularly for heart disease and antioxidant protection. Organic and free trading are also necessary movements for Haigh’s to raise consumers’ interest in the company. Extend into cafes The expansion into cafes might help Haigh’s to create a new product range. The innovation of cafes based on chocolate beverages and desserts will remark a turning point for the business. It not only helps Haigh’s to boost the sales of chocolate but also gives Haigh’s customers a new experience. * Customer responsiveness Building a strong brand loyaltyHaigh’s chocolate has created a great customer service by training staff and offering to them an intensive knowledge about products and branding. However, Haigh’s has not strongly focused on building brand loyalty. It is necessary for Haigh’s to engage and maintain the relationship with loyal customers by providing member cards, discount cards for large purchases. By implementing the loyalty programs, Haigh’s customers will feel they are valued. Moreover, with the discount promotions, customers might consider to buy with bigger amount in order to get more discount; as a result, Haigh’s could increase its sales revenue. Being more conscious of baby boomers segmentAs aging population in Australia is occurring faster, Haigh’s is required to take more actions in meeting the demand of this segment. Discount for senior is one of the options that Haigh’s could apply to attract more elderly people. Getting connected with consumers through social network Haigh’s has been successful in using the widespread of Facebook to engage with their consumers. In their Facebook page, a wide range of products has been introduced and received variety comments and responses from consumers. It is also a great marketing tool for Haigh’s. However, it is needed to exploit more the potential of social network and blogging community in strengthening the relationship with consumers.Haigh’s should set up more surveys and feedback pages in order to know what are best-seller products, what are their drawbacks, what consumers want and how to satisfy their needs. The creation of â€Å"make your own flavour† game would be applied in their Facebook page, which allows browser to create and mix own chocolate flavour. It would be a chance to let consumers knows that the company values their opinions and interests. Moreover, Haigh’s will also have more ideas in developing their product lines. 7. 3 Corporate strategy People always want new, innovative products. There are plenty of similar products existing and new products developed every si ngle day, which gives customers various options to choose. Therefore the company may easily experience change of consumer loyalty, especially for adolescents.Chocolate is an $83 billion a year business, which makes the industry’s value larger than the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of more than 130 nations on earth (CNN, 2012). While they have expanded its business for almost a century, they only have 13 stores in Australia and have not expanded internationally. Their products are highly known in Australia as being of very high quality. However, Haigh’s Manufacturing represents only a small part of the Australian chocolate market. The Australian chocolate category is clearly dominated by large international players like Kraft Foods, Mars, and Nestle. Haigh’s best estimate based on industry data is 1. % of the total Australian chocolate market by turnover, a smaller portion by volume (A E HAIGH PTY LTD, 2011). In order to expand and grow the company some strategies are suggested: Tapered vertical Integration Vertical integration is commonly used in the firm’s core business to gain market power over rivals. Market power is gained as the firm develops the ability to save on its operations, avoid market costs, improve product quality and, possibly, protect its technology from imitation by rivals (Dallas Hanson, 2011). Since 1915, Haigh’s Chocolate carries out tapered vertical integration as they have controlled the whole process from raw materials to the consumer value chain.This has enabled the business to create the highest quality for its products and enabled them to protect the product quality. The company has built its own outstanding retail network. This strategy needs to keep up to protect its product quality and its long history. However, it will not be able to make continues growth in the long term as new international competitors keep entering into the market and strong international competitors have occupied the markets. Related diversification Haigh’s chocolate does not use related diversification. It is suggested to use related diversification in opening chocolate cafes in Australia, which allows them to grow their market share and reputation faster.Related diversification allows a company to swap complementary skills and create value through economise of scope. Haigh’s Chocolate has considered it but decided against it for now as they believe that is not their strength (Christina, 2011). There are some international chocolate cafes in Australia including Max Brenner, Lindt, Guylian and The Chocolate Room. One of Haigh’s strengths is breadth of its product range available to customers and it is even wider range than those international competitors which run chocolate cafes in Australia as well as worldwide (Christina, 2011). All products can be used at Haigh’s Chocolate cafe like the competitors.To differentiate, one of its current product, dark chocolate coffee beans which 100% Australian grown, for coffee lovers can be used for its coffee at the cafe and the cafe can be operated as a chocolate bar which combines a bar and a shop allowing cusomter to experience purchasing some their products at the chocolate cafe. In addition to this, buidling a solid training system for employees and developing of chocolate products such as chocolate brownie, chocolate cake can be implemented for a long term strategy of chocolate cafes. Moreover, this related diversification helps find out the latest consumer trends and behavior much more easier and also enables to advertise its new products or promotions at lower cost. International StrategyInternational strategy has been suggested as a possibility for further growth of the company. Asia market Europeans account for nearly half of all the chocolate the world eats, according to the International Cocoa Organization. (CNN, 2012) However, barriers to entry are too high in Europe as there are diverse strong competi tors. Although the Asia market is smaller compared to Europe, Asian markets are expected to hold a 20 percent share of the global market by 2016. Chocolate sales in China are expected to rise 19 percent to $1. 2 billion, India expects to see a 7 percent jump to $633 million dollars, and in Indonesia are expected to rise 25 percent to $1. billion dollars, ballooning to nearly 2 billion dollars by 2015 (CNN, 2012). Japan is Asia’s largest consumer market for chocolate confectionery with per capita consumption rate of about 1. 8 kilos (World Cocoa Foundation, 2011). Therefore the Asian market is a sutiable entry for Haigh’s Chocolates. The first entry for Haigh’s Chocolate can be Japan. Transnational strategy A transnational strategy is most suitable strategy for Haigh’s Chocolate as it helps to achieve both global efficiency and local responsiveness. They have not entered international markets since they had failed entering into Japan market due to pricing and developing new products for new market.Therefore, Haigh’s Chocolate needs new products for different markets. For instance, Japanese consumers prefer softer and less sweet products and prefer low-priced individually wrapped products are increasing (World Cocoa Foundation, 2011). Green tea, sesame flavours, individual wrapped products can be developed for Japanese markets. Haigh’s Chocolate’s are rated ‘green’ in Greenpeace True Food Guide, Signifying a clear policy on excluding GE-derived ingredients, including oils derived from GE crops, and animal products from animals fed on GE crops while other competitors such as Nestles have been rated much lower due to some criticism (True Food Network).Consumer awareness of environment-friendly products is expected to grow dramatically in the next five years (Markets and Markets, 2011). The company’s products are considered to be in a higher price range with diverse scale of products in the global market. The company can enter into international market with its clear policy as consumers seek healthier, higher quality of ingredient for health while providing different types of products for different markets for both global standardisation as well as localisation Entry mode: Strategic Alliance Strategic alliances allow companies to share the risks and the resources required to enter international markets.Furthermore, it can facilitate the development of new core competencies that contribute to the company’s future strategic competitiveness (Dal