Top 5 Companies in Terms of Social Responsibility Free Essays

November 13, 2012 Top 5 Companies in Terms of Social Responsibility We live in a society that holds companies accountable for their actions in relation to the environment, the welfare of the less fortunate, and the investors that fund them. A company’s actions in terms of social responsibility are placed into three categories: profit responsibility, stakeholder responsibility, and societal responsibility. Profit responsibility refers to a company’s responsibility to maximize profits without using deceptive or unfair practices. We will write a custom essay sample on Top 5 Companies in Terms of Social Responsibility or any similar topic only for you Order Now Stakeholder responsibility is a company’s responsibility to consider the consequences of its actions on those that can be negatively affected by them. Societal responsibility refers to the duty a company has to preserve the environment and to the public in general. Using these guidelines, CR magazine compiled a list of the most socially responsible companies. The top five on this list are: 1. Bristol-Myers Squibb Co. 2. International Business Machines Corp 3. Intel Corp. 4. Microsoft Corporation 5. Johnson Controls Inc As a global â€Å"BioPharma† company, Bristol-Myers Squibb uses its resources to formulate medicines that help millions of people affected by various illnesses. They have devised a strategy that combines their resources in order to maximize profit while providing a value to consumers. â€Å"We focus on our customers’ needs, giving maximum priority to accelerating pipeline development, delivering sales growth and continuing to manage costs† (BMS). While making a profit, Bristol-Myers Squibb has continued to pursue its mission to provide access to healthcare through their patient assistance programs. These programs provide free or low cost medicines and services to those that have met financial hardship. In addition, they provide a diverse workforce that respects cultural and familial differences among its employees. As for the environment, Bristol-Myers Squib integrates â€Å"comprehensive energy management, pollution controls, and other practices to reduce environmental impacts† at their worldwide facilities. â€Å"Bristol-Myers Squibb delivers on its commitments: to our patients and customers, to our employees, to our global communities, to our shareholders and to our environment† (BMS). According to the New York Times, Bristol-Myers Squibb declared a self imposed ban on drug ads in 2005. He reasoning behind this ban was to give physicians time to understand new products before patients began asking for them (Saul). â€Å"We want to make sure that before we start mass media – television, radio and print branded advertising – that physicians have a level of comfort about the treatment and which patients are appropriate for it,† Brian Henry, a spokesman for Bristol-Myers, said (qtd. in Saul). International Business Machines Corp, also known as IBM, is a global technology company that prides itself on thinking outside of the box to â€Å"solve some of the world’s most complex problems† (IBM). In terms of corporate citizenship, IBM uses a comprehensive approach to focus on societal issues that include literacy, education, and community economic development. They utilize a global environmental management system to ensure they are protecting the environment at all of their worldwide facilities. Approximately 8% of their purchases are from diverse suppliers and they also have a commitment to maintaining employee diversity. â€Å"IBM believes that a company culture based on core values not only helps our business, but also defines the role that we can and should play in society† (IBM). CBS News published an article detailing IBM’s 2008 study on corporate social responsibility. This study showed that only 17 percent of companies ask customers for their social responsibility concerns. â€Å"IBM believes that by asking customers about their CSR concerns, companies can actually uncover new sales opportunities† (Holstein). One clear implication of the study for top management is this: it no longer suffices to have one office dedicated to CSR, handing out a few community grants. CSR needs to be built into the business units and into the business strategy† (Holstein). Intel prides itself at maintaining the highest standards through leadership, company gove rnance, contributions to health and environment issues, and within its commitment to being socially responsible. The company has created a code of conduct that focuses on improved worker conditions, economic development, and a cleaner environment for communities. Beyond their code of conduct, Intel has an innovative education program that provides girls worldwide with educational opportunities through technology access and community learning programs. They have also created their Teach Program to assist teachers in becoming effective educators. All of this is in line with their vision: â€Å"This decade we will create and extend computing technology to connect and enrich the lives of every person on earth† (Intel). According to Huffing Post writer, Ryan Scott, â€Å"Intel has decidedly immodest goals for its corporate community involvement† (Scott). In 2011 alone, Intel funded nine different projects to the tune of $125,000 in total to nine different projects. One of the recent programs is Intel’s work studying colony collapse disorder† (Scott). Microsoft Corporation claims global corporate citizenship through the company’s commitment to fulfill its public responsibilities by serving the needs of people in co mmunities worldwide. â€Å"As our company has grown, this commitment has extended far beyond our own products and services and has been amplified many times over through our network of partners, including governments, nonprofits and other organizations† (Microsoft). One of the ways in which Microsoft serves the community is through YouthSpark. YouthSpark is a hub that provides access to tools, programs, and resources to help children and teens imagine and reach their full potential. In addition, they strive to work responsibly through a diverse workforce that provides competitive compensation and extensive employee training in addition to benefits to domestic partners of employees. They also provide humanitarian response worldwide and aid in empowering nonprofit organizations to do the same. We provide powerful technologies and human support that make it possible to keep families and communities connected, and speed the arrival of much needed aid† (Microsoft). Beyond an initial response, Microsoft stays to help rebuild. â€Å"We extend our commitment beyond the immediate need, supporting rebuilding efforts for months and years afterward† (Microsoft). Microsoft’s statement seemed to ring true in a brief article published by th e Seattle Times. â€Å"Microsoft said it will donate $1. 25 million, a combination of cash and in-kind donations, to Haiti earthquake relief† (Chan). With this effort, they also encouraged employee participation by â€Å"matching annual donations up to $12,000 per worker and reaching out to local government and non-government agencies to offer help† (Chan). Johnson Controls provides an environment in which their employees understands and values each other’s similarities and differences. â€Å"We cultivate a culture where our people recognize it is the strength of personal relationships across businesses and functions that help us continually succeed† (Johnson Controls). The company also practices diversity in its selection of suppliers, increasing diverse suppliers from 300 to 420 in 2009. Johnson Controls also shares a spirit of giving through global community relations that support arts, education, health and social services, the environment, and leadership development. â€Å"In 2011, Johnson Controls donated more than $15. 4 million worldwide to nonprofit and community organizations in support of these causes† (Johnson Controls). According to WTMJ out of Milwaukee, Johnson Controls made a â€Å"historically large† donation to Milwaukee Public Schools in September 2012. The plan involves an investment in Pulaski High School’s automotive program† (WTMJ). While details of the dollar amount were not available, the donation itself is a testament to Johnson Controls support of education. To conclude, a company’s actions in terms of social responsibility are placed into three categories: profit responsibility, stakehold er responsibility, and societal responsibility. The top five are known as, Bristol-Myers Squibb Co. , International Business Machines Corp. , Intel Corp. , Microsoft Corporation and Johnson Controls Inc. From resources to formulate medicines that help millions of people affected by various illnesses, to inventing the new Microsoft Windows 8 system, each have become a huge part in society and in our lives and most likely continue to be part of our future. Works Cited BMS. â€Å"Bristol-Myers Squibb – A Global Biopharmaceutical Company. † Bristol-Myers Squibb – A Global Biopharmaceutical Company. N. p. , n. d. Web. 07 Nov. 2012. . Chan, Sharon. â€Å"Microsoft Donating $1. 25M to Haiti Earthquake Relief. † Seattle Times. N. p. , 15 Jan. 2010. Web. 10 Nov. 2012. . CR Magazine. â€Å"100 Best Corporate Citizens 2012. † Corporate Responsibility Magazine. N. p. , n. d. Web. 07 Nov. 2012. . Holstein, William J. â€Å"IBM’s Study on Corporate Social Responsibility: It’s a New World. † CBSNews. CBS Interactive, 18 Mar. 2008. Web. 10 Nov. 2012. . IBM. â€Å"IBM – United States. † IBM – United States. N. p. , n. d. Web. 07 Nov. 2012. . Intel. â€Å"Company Overview. † Intel. N. p. , n. d. Web. 07 Nov. 2012. . Johnson Controls. â€Å"ABOUT USOur Community Focus. † Our Community Focus. N. p. , n. d. Web. 7 Nov. 2012. . Microsoft. â€Å"Microsoft Corporate Citizenship. † Microsoft Corporate Citizenship. N. p. , n. d. Web. 07 Nov. 2012. . Saul, Stephanie. â€Å"A Self-Imposed Ban on Drug Ads. † New York Times. N. p. , 15 June 2005. Web. 10 Nov. 2012. . Scott, Ryan. â€Å"Intel: Making the World Better for Every Person on Earth, That’s All. † The Huffington Post. TheHuffingtonPost. com, 24 Aug. 2012. Web. 10 Nov. 2012. . WTMJ. â€Å"TODAY’S TMJ4. † Johnson Controls Set to Give ‘historic’ Donation to MPS -. N. p. , 26 Sept. 2012. Web. 10 Nov. 2012. . How to cite Top 5 Companies in Terms of Social Responsibility, Essay examples

Market Research Swot Analysis

Question: Discuss about theMarket Researchfor Swot Analysis. Answer: Introduction This particular research work would try to shed light on preparing a personal SWOT analysis and it is expected that this SWOT analysis would assist me to deal with the addressed issues in my workplace. Critically analyzing my areas of strengths and weaknesses, I would be able to enhance my personal qualities and through these up-gradations, I would be able to prepare myself better for the future. I believe that analyzing my strengths and weaknesses would help me find out whether I am eligible to fit in the organization or not. In order to carry on the entire research work, I would follow some useful steps and these steps would assist me in reaching the conclusion. Initially, I would try to shed light on the sources for feedback and these sources would assist me to gain data, based on which I would assess myself (Easterby-Smith, Thorpe Jackson, 2012). I believe that through this thorough this analysis, I would found myself eligible foe organizational fit or not. At the end of the stu dy, I would shed light on the discussion of the self-improvement utilizing the techniques of continuous improvement. Sources for Feedback At present, I have been working in BMW Motors and performance enhancements as well as continuous improvement are the significant parameters to discuss in the organization. The company arranges its several performance appraisals to analyze the situation clearly. However, I have found that the Myers-Briggs Personality Type Indicator test is one of the most helpful tools that could assist in understanding my performance in a far better manner. At the time of interview and joining, I found that my major job responsibility was to clearly understand the needs of the customers in the ever changing global scenario and to convey the same to the responsible team, so that our company can produce the products properly based on the customers requirements. Dawson (2014) has stated that the Myers-Briggs Personality Type Indicator test has assisted millions of people in different parts of the globe for gaining insights about themselves along with how they interact with others. Through this assessmen t, individuals learn how they communicate, learn as well as work and what are the areas that they need to rectify (Peng Lai, 2012). This assessment provides a powerful framework in order to build better relationships, driving positive changes, harnessing innovation as well as achieving excellence. I have understood that the companys semi-annual report of performance appraisal not only helps me in analyzing my skills and competencies, self-analysis is highly essential as well to understand the situation more clearly. For self-analysis, I have found three major reliable sources and these are corporate emails, informal and formal meetings and performance appraisal of the company. I must say that these sources would help me to gain useful knowledge from the informal sources from the professional persons (Kajanus et al., 2012). BMW is one of the leading automobile companies and I feel privileged enough to take part in this organization. Therefore, I feel that to upgrade my present scenario, I must take assistance from my senior management. From the first source, i.e. companys annual performance appraisal, I have found that the result is not highly encouraging and I need to work more on my performance. I am responsible to do market research and analyze the trends of the customers preferences. As per the performance appraisal, my performance was satisfactory, as I was able to fetch data from the employees (Grener, Toker Uluay, 2012). The second reliable source was the corporate emails that I have received from my company regarding any feedback from the customers or some other features. I have found that every time after sending the emails, my managers helped me to enhance my strategy of working and this has assisted me to enhance my performance gradually. For instance, I have found that many customers have raised questions about cheating on emission tests of BMW and I was supposed to answer them regarding this concern. My managers taught me the way I must interact with the customers to quench their queries and I was gradually improving (Briciu, CăpuÃ…Å ¸neanu Topor, 2012). The last and the most important part were both the formal and informal discussions in my organization. At BMW, we have weekly meeting with the supervisors that focus on the weekly performance. However, I must say that this discussion is helpful in understanding where an employee lacks in his/her efforts. However, it is required to mention that this weekly meetings were helpful to me, as I found my weaknesses. I found that I need to focus more on understanding the requirements of the customers and response to their queries in such a manner that they become satisfied with the customer support experience (Child Rodrigues, 2012). Assessment of Personal Strength and Personal Weakness SWOT analysis is highly essential for any of the organizations to thoroughly understand both their internal and external factors. In the same way, personal SWOT analysis is highly essential in understanding how effective I am for the organization (Wagner Hollenbeck, 2014). Personal Strengths At the time of analyzing my strengths, I have found that I am communicative as well as open enough to my target customers. Apart from that, my customer feedback says that I am competent enough to make my respondents comfortable with their queries. Along with that, I must say that I am an expert in fetching data from the customers regarding their choices and preferences. Moreover, I have found myself to be efficient enough in reporting the proper and acquired data to the correct department for formulating effective strategies. Through this self analysis, I have found that I am efficient enough in listening to the customers and understanding their feelings regarding the brand BMW. I always report exact and true information to the company, as I know any biased information might hamper the organizational operations. Along with that, I must say that I know languages such as Spanish in addition to French and English and this is an added advantage for me at the time of interacting with the customers. Personal Weaknesses After analyzing my strengths, in this part, it is essential to look at my weaknesses and I have found that I lack in formulating strategies Sometimes, I have found that I fail to fetch good data rather proper data from the customers and this has affected my performance in the organization However, somehow I manage to gather data from the customers, but I lack in formulating these data in proper place and this weakness has been highlighted by manager in almost every meetings However, I must say that my colleagues have found out that I become disappointed easily and this hampers my productivity as well as performance. Apart from that, I have found that I cannot take any negative feedback from the customers and this part has affected my performance. My managers as well have said that not accepting the negative feedback from the customers is one of the major issues for my organizational expansion. Moreover, my supervisors have said that I lack in formulating interesting questions that are useful in getting information from the customers. Organizational Fit Bryman and Bell (2015) have described organizational fit as one of the most critical elements in acquiring any new talent. It is expected that a candidate might posses the preferred technical skills that are being sought and have the perfect educational background and come highly recommended. Now, I need to analyze that whether I fit in this organization or not. Being an employee in MBW, I have always tried to focus on the whole person approach and balancing all the components of the individual and the corporation. However, it is required to mention that there are some aspects that I really need to work out to conduct this particular activity and these are expected to enhance my performance to be in organizational fit (Voegtlin, Patzer Scherer, 2012). Assessment of Placement in the Corporation After analyzing my strengths and weaknesses, now I need to analyze that whether I am suitable for this position in this industry or not. I have analyzed that I am proper for this position in the organization, though I have several shortcomings. My managers in the organization are good enough and my colleagues have constantly encouraged me to win over my weaknesses. My lack of formulating strategy is one of my issues for the organizational growth and focusing on this part can immediately help me to focus on my organizational growth. Apart from that, I have found that I am suitable for sales as well, as I am capable enough in handling the customers efficiently. Many customers have stated that I am good at convincing and thus I am suitable enough for the sales department. I want to stay in the marketing analyzing department and for that, I am ready to go through any self-improvements with the help of my seniors, managers as well as colleagues (Girdano et al., 2012). Self-Enhancement for Continuous Improvement I must mention in this part that self SWOT analysis has been highly effective for me to analyze my present position in the organization. I have found that in order to achieve my vision of heading the market research department, I intensely need to engage in the self-enhancement procedure. I have found that continuous professional engagement method is one of the effective ways through which I can upgrade my present position in the organization (Boud, 2013). Apart from that, I have found that monitoring as well as coaching is another effective ways that would be helpful for me to win over my weaknesses. I must say that I have found that instant asking for the feedbacks from the senior managers would allow me to focus on my future enhancement procedure. Seniors and the managers are highly efficient in market research works and thus I can easily rely in them for helping me (Jansen Shipp, 2013). Lastly, I should say that I need to be self-directed enough; otherwise no one would be able to enhance my present situation. Moreover, I need to focus more on personal communication skills as well as organizing skills for carrying out the market research work efficiently. I believe that through these effective means, I would be able to go beyond the present scenario and reach a remarkable position in the corporation (Lust, 2015). Conclusion After completing the entire task, I must say that self SWOT analysis has helped me to find out my strengths and weaknesses that are hampering my performance in this organization. For fetching data, I have relied on three reliable sources and data from these sources have helped me by providing a chance for rectification. Through this analysis, I have found that based on my skills and capabilities, I am suitable for the sales department as well. Therefore, I need to work on my identified weaknesses to achieve an attainable position in the market place. References Boud, D. (2013). Enhancing learning through self-assessment. Routledge. Briciu, S., CăpuÃ…Å ¸neanu, S., Topor, D. (2012). Developments on Swot Analysis for Costing Methods.International Journal of Academic Research,4(4). Bryman, A., Bell, E. (2015).Business research methods. Oxford University Press, USA. Child, J., Rodrigues, S. B. (2012). How organizations engage with external complexity: A political action perspective. InUnderstanding Organizations in Complex, Emergent and Uncertain Environments(pp. 13-44). Palgrave Macmillan UK. Dawson, J. F. (2014). Moderation in management research: What, why, when, and how.Journal of Business and Psychology,29(1), 1-19. Easterby-Smith, M., Thorpe, R., Jackson, P. R. (2012).Management research. London: Sage. Girdano, D., Dusek, D. E., EverlyJr, G. S. (2012). Controlling stress and tension. Pearson Higher Ed. Grener, A., Toker, K., Uluay, K. (2012). Application of combined SWOT and AHP: a case study for a manufacturing firm.Procedia-Social and Behavioral Sciences,58, 1525-1534. Jansen, K. J., Shipp, A. J. (2013). A review and agenda for incorporating time in fit research. Organizational fit: Key issues and new directions, 195-221. Kajanus, M., Leskinen, P., Kurttila, M., Kangas, J. (2012). Making use of MCDS methods in SWOT analysisLessons learnt in strategic natural resources management.Forest Policy and Economics,20, 1-9. Lust, J. A. (2015). Amy L. Kristofà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ Brown and Jon Billsberry (Eds.). Organizational Fit: Key Issues and New Directions. Malden, MA: John Wiley Sons, Ltd., 2013, 246 pages, $127.95 hardcover. Personnel Psychology, 68(1), 228-230. Peng, D. X., Lai, F. (2012). Using partial least squares in operations management research: A practical guideline and summary of past research.Journal of Operations Management,30(6), 467-480. Voegtlin, C., Patzer, M., Scherer, A. G. (2012). Responsible leadership in global business: A new approach to leadership and its multi-level outcomes.Journal of Business Ethics,105(1), 1-16. Wagner III, J. A., Hollenbeck, J. R. (2014).Organizational behavior: Securing competitive advantage. Routledge.

Our Experience of Visiting a Restaurant free essay sample

As we walked into the restaurant we were immediately greeted by Sue welcoming us to the restaurant we experienced no wait time. Restaurant was upbeat with a friendly atmosphere. Sue introduced us to Tom our waiter who immediately sat us down with menus and took our drinking orders. Quickly we were brought our drinks with chips and salsa as appetizers. Tom explained in detail the specials for the evening. After ordering our meals we enjoyed the lively upbeat music of the restaurant. The friendly staff smiled as they passed by our table. Tom refilled our drinks without hesitation. Our meals arrived at our table the food was at perfect tempature and portions were appealing. The food was not salty and was perfect to taste. Tom made sure we had all the condiments needed for our meals and returned to make sure we were satisfied. Our drinks continued to be refilled throughout our meal. We will write a custom essay sample on Our Experience of Visiting a Restaurant or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page I ordered the steak which was cooked to perfection. My husband had the chicken which was tender and perfect taste. Our overall experience was ranked at 9 out of 10 score. Would return again! The enticing elixir was such an intoxicant that I became feint from giddiness As a mystery shopper I’ll be able to perform all kinds of service oriented businesses which can enhance a company’s customer loyalty. As a mystery shopper I will ensure that I meet all clients’ specifications, notice details and report them accurately. I will write objectively and concisely returning all calls and e-mails promptly along with meeting all deadlines consistently and reliably.

4 Steps to a Successful Interview

4 Steps to a Successful Interview Once your resume and cover letter are polished to perfection, you have to rely on your personal strengths to appeal to a hiring manager. The key is remembering that they want to hire you; their goal is finding the best person for the job, they already hope it’s someone they’ve identified already. Your role is just confirming their belief that it’s you. 1. Ask QuestionsIt is VITAL that you have thoughtful, relevant questions to ask. What is the interviewer’s favorite part about working there? What’s the collegial atmosphere like? How would your role fit into the company’s larger mission? What else would you need to know to feel confident about starting a new job there?2. Listen And FocusI always have a legal pad or notebook in my hands to jot down reminders of what I’m hearing- even if it’s already been mentioned in the job posting, it helps me to recall what we’ve already gone over. Job interviews can be stressful and ità ¢â‚¬â„¢s easy to feel like information is going in one ear and out the other unless you keep some kind of record. It’s also a great place to keep track of your questions until there’s a pause for you to ask them.3. Be The Best Representation Of YourselfAn overly casual interviewer can be  a hurdle. You’ve showed up in a suit, with a briefcase, and copies of your resume on fancy-pants paper†¦ and your prospective supervisor saunters in 15 minutes late wearing jeans and eating a bagel. Join in her self-deprecating laugh if you like, but do keep your professional feet on the floor. Stay grounded and remember she has a job already. You still need to show you can roll with the punches and stay collected when situations become unpredictable.On the flip side, don’t let an overly formal interview rattle you either; take lots of deep breaths and give thoughtful answers to any questions you’re asked.4. Negotiate Your Way To A Better SituationOnce youà ¢â‚¬â„¢ve received a job offer is the time to negotiate for anything you feel you need to do your job as well as you possibly can- flextime or a work from home option, for example, or the terms of your quarterly review. Be respectful and appreciative of what you’re offered, but don’t be shy about knowing your value.

How were native (first nation) societies in America affected by the Essay

How were native (first nation) societies in America affected by the introduction of the horse - Essay Example Native Americans always adjusted according to postulating and diverse environments and they also remolded the natural environments to fulfill with their needs. After the arrival of Europeans, many different societies emerged having different languages, ethnical conventions, and history. Europeans had an extremely devastating impact on the New World environment as they cleared vast piece of ground of woodlands and unwittingly introduced a huge variety of Old World weeds. They introduced domesticated animals who transubstantiated the ecology for grazing animals which consumed many indigenous plants to survive.2 Despite all the certain differences, Native Americans also benefitted by the European contact which eternally changed the livings and cultures of the Native Americans. The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate the profound impact of introduction of horse on Native American societies. Former horse species were eradicated by climatic alterations and disappeared entirely from Nor th America. For the first time around 3000 years ago, horses were domesticated in European regions and used for conveyance of both humans and freight.3 The horse had been extinct in the America for 10,000 years before European colonists arrived and it was reintroduced when the Spaniards, inhabitants of Spain, brought their higher-up breed of Arab horses to North America in the 1600s, transforming the culture of the Native Americans nearly infinitely.4 Impact of Horse Introduction on Native Americans Culture The horse held particular attraction and brought the best acknowledged and most spectacular change.5 Clark Wissler (1927, p. 154 cited in Ewers 2001) has called the time period from 1540 to 1880 in the history of the Native Americans "the horse culture period." The arrival of horses produced a cultural revolution among Native Americans and radically remolded the livings of the Americans by transmutation of transportation, hunting and warfare. Some groups called horses as elk dogs , because initially Native Americans did not know the use of these huge animals.6 Before the early 1700s the Native Americans depended on human beings or dogs for transporting their loads. Some famous groups of Native Americans such as Sioux, Kiowa and Cheyenne shortly determined that the horse could become crucial element of their lives, and its usage diffused to other tribes. Horses were being traded and sometimes allowed to wander away and even got stolen from a tribe. They were used to pull heavy loads, faster and farther than a human or a dog, through merely bounded poles made from young trees which were primitively designed for dogs and easily adapted to horses subsequently.7 Many Natives exchanged their goods for the horses which helped them get released from the particular area of the Plains and agricultural environment of their villages. Horses altered Native’s culture and way of life to become nomadic and mounted hunters as with horses, people can carry heavy loads, travel across long distances and hunt for their food and other needs. They searched for game particularly for hunting the thundery, roaming herds of bison.8 The vast herds of bison, which departed seasonally big distances from place to place, could move much faster than a man on foot and there was small cover on the vast plains for hunters to hide themselves for stalking which made it exceedingly hard for them to hunt. Only adept hunters managed to

Assessing the past performance of a security or asset Research Paper

Assessing the past performance of a security or asset - Research Paper Example Secondly, asset turnover is an important reflection of the sales against assets relationship which can be used to demonstrate performance. The other ROE tool is the financial leverage function that highlights the measure of assets against shareholders’ equity. ROE is therefore a fair representation of elements of the balance sheet as well as the income statement since the variables uses in these rations are picked from the two performance reports. To obtain ROE, the three ratios are multiplied to demonstrate the summary of the performance. From such an assessment, it is possible for investors to monitor the performance of the investment in which they have an interest on. Alternatively, another important performance indicator usually applied in economics is the return on assets (ROA). Simpler in calculation than ROE, ROA reflects actual performance that every investment unit has over a particular period. One of the two ways to obtain ROA is multiplication of asset turnover with the profit margin which reflects performance with respect to total return element on assets (Higgins 2001, p37). On the other hand, net income against assets gives the same consideration. Apparently, this tool of performance is also a reflection of variables of the balance sheet as well as the income statement which account for performance over a specific period. Further asset turnover analyses through a number of control ratios enables consideration of specific asset types for clearer asset performance. Some of these control ratios include; inventory turnover, fixed asset turnover, collection period, days’ sales in cash and payables period. Liquidity ratios also assist in determination of performance which determines the management’s application of returns in furthering business and investment. In terms of operating capital requires a certain sufficiency level

Creative Imaging within Misleading Advertising in Military

Creative Imaging within Misleading Advertising in Military  ­Review of literature This chapter provides a discussion of the related concepts linked to the aims and objectives of the research as highlighted in Chapter 1. An initial mindset diagram (figure 1) highlighted relevant areas. The concepts or ideas have now been prioritized to include the following. The purpose of the literature review is to show an understanding of the basic concepts of the research and to highlight possible areas for the primary research. To begin with the concept of misleading advertising in the military is addressed for this chapter, Advertising is one of the crucial recruiting tools used by the military services in support of the all-volunteer force.   I feel strongly that the military isnt being advertised appropriately, whenever the real horrors of war are kept secret to todays society. Recruiters using advertisement in the military Military recruiters depend on the immature status of their prey to capture them with false promise. The highest calling of any society is to protect the youth from any danger. Our society today is failing to recognize this call. Clinic Rutgers school of law (2008) highlights that Recruiters insinuate themselves in teenagers lives without their parents knowledge. The interest of parents in the care, custody, and control of their children-is perhaps the oldest of the fundamental liberty interests recognized in our countrys laws. These fundamental rights include a constitutionally protected zone in which parents can direct the upbringing and education of children under their control, without hindrance from the government. https://law.newark.rutgers.edu/files/u/MilitaryRecruitingReportConLitFinal.pdf Sackett (2004) states that In the late 1990s, the U.S. armed forces struggled to meet their recruiting goals and in some cases fell short. This led to the question of how the recruiting process and the recruiters job could be better supported in order to ensure that force strength, force quality and the required skill mix of personnel will be available to meet every changing security and defense challenges.   Military officials recognized that a fundamental understanding of the youth population and of the effectiveness of various advertising and recruiting strategies used to attract them would be extremely valuable in addressing these questions. Clinic Rutgers school of law (2008) highlights that Funding for military recruitment is on the raise. The 2009 military advertising budget totals $20.5 billion. This money is used for slick ads and video games designed by the same marketing firms that create commercials for major corporations, such as Coca Cola, McDonalds and Nintendo. I find this very paragraph very interesting as it talks about different advertising firms that done commercials for Coca Cola which is very different from the ads for the military. https://law.newark.rutgers.edu/files/u/MilitaryRecruitingReportConLitFinal.pdf The military has a comfortable relationship with the entertainment industry for many years now, providing open door base material, contact and consultation to movie studios. Evans (2008) quotes We may think that the content of American movies is free from government interference, but in fact, the Pentagon has been telling filmmakers what to say and what not to say for decades. Its Hollywoods dirtiest little secret. http://www.ringnebula.com/Oil/recruiting-children.htm This message evaluates the property of advertising on recruiting, given that quantitative estimates of the relative helpfulness of Navy, Army, Marine Corps, Air Force and joint advertising programs. The findings indicate the army services achieve enlistments from extra advertisement, and the goods of any branch do not seem to come at the cost (in terms of lost recruits) of any other. Sackett (2004) wrote the development of an advertising campaign for the military. The framework involves (1) tracking the competitive environment for military recruitment to detect factors affecting youth understand and views of military service; (2) examination of audience member beliefs, goals and language; (3) development of a range of message strategies for military recruitment (4) allocation of resources to advertising message strategies. Here I have included an image that I have collected off Google Images of a soldier in duty. The Photographer and Director have been very creative and smart with their work. They have modeled this person to look controlling and passionate in their act of duty. The image gives a real surreal atmosphere with the dark gloomy and moody colours. The settings surrounding this soldier are making him stand out even more. The facial expression shows deep concentration. He is alert and ready for combat but what these television ads never show is any actions or glimpse of battle, just a proud soldier holding a weapon. Video Games       After discovering their use as both recruitment and as military training, The military has reinforced progress of PC war game software, for example; Close Combat: First to Fight this game was created by the military, and targeted for teens. Military recruiters ability to affect young people is seriously enhanced by fascinating imagery shown in the various promotional materials that they bring to schools, including brochures, DVDs, and video games. Dertouzos (2003) points out In recent years, the Department of Defense (DoD) has been spending more than $100 million annually on advertising to support recruiting. It talks about them being successful with involving the youth within the military. For example here is Dertouzos (2003) stating that Advertising has been effective in increasing numbers of high quality enlistments ie, high school seniors or graduates who score in the upper half of the Armed Forces Qualification Test. Evans (2008) highlights that Another success story, in terms of the number of teens and young adults participating, is the US Armys video game project Americas Army, accessed by several million players as of 2007. Americas Army is a highly graphic, fast paced and graphically violent battle simulation for youthful players. The army states that the game is for growing adults, but it is freely available on the Internet without age restriction and is widely distributed to children. http://www.ringnebula.com/Oil/recruiting-children.htm Sackett (2004) highlights the importance of targeting young people The youth population should be a key objective for the military. I included this paragraph from Evaluating Military Advertising and Recruiting book because it will be very helpful when I go to write my next chapter, it talks about the military targeting the youth as their main components to join the military. Military video games are the main tool of educations future by irritating men to bring out all real rampages. Gunter (1998) points out that Throughout the 1990s, increasing numbers of newspaper headlines have highlighted scare stories about violent and horrific video games, aimed at children and teenagers, with themes that emphasize murder and mayhem. It shows that video games within the military has gone viral throughout the social media and can be accessed by any person at any age which is concerning. This is a worrying issue that needs to be spoken out for they are giving the wrong message out to the young men and women to advertise the military. Video games have the attention of the youth and can educate as well as entertain. Its good enough for entertainment, but should war be sterilized and glorified in this way? No it should not! The real horrors need to be made very public and clear. The military advertisement is very clever because how they use the creative side to military video games is the intense graphics. It automatically grabs the viewers attention straight away. They include and pay so much attention to detail that its distracting you from the main message. As you can see I have included a few photographs at the bottom of this section of different military games that I collected off Pinterest. The bold and sharp colours catch your eye immediately which pulls the audience in. They use creative imaging by include so much detail within the background with explosives / smoke and fire, making the soldiers look extremely powerful that nothing could harm or come in contact with them, but in reality they would be killed immediately. With all the smoke blocking and distracting their sight and concentration, that would be giving their enemy an opportunity to shoot and kill. I find it interesting that they have managed to set two different scenes within the creative imaging for example in the other photograph, I find it has a very relaxed and peaceful appearance compared to the graphics beforehand. The colours are a lot more dulled down and calm and dont have such excitement added to the atmosphere, the designers has paid a lot of attention to detail trying to suit the viewers needs by making them comfortable with the games due to the graphics. Though the intense graphics do not betray the truth to the realities of war. Women in the Military Many debate that due to recent conflict, women already serve in combat roles, their service is not formally acknowledged, it obstructs their qualified development and admission to some benefits. Clinic Rutgers school of law (2008) argues that Recruiters give female students the impression that they will be out of harms way. While women do not serve in front line combat positions, they work some of the most dangerous jobs at the front lines. Female students are not informed about the dangers of sexual assault and harassment. Of women receiving care from the Veterans Administration, 23% reported sexual assault and 55% reported harassment during their service. Furthermore, women report higher rates of psychological disorders than men. https://law.newark.rutgers.edu/files/u/MilitaryRecruitingReportConLitFinal.pdf I have included two photographs of women in the military that I collected from Pinterest. What stands out about these two photographs is the person behind the uniform. How these photographs relate to the creative imaging side is how the Photographer have directed these women and modeled them as a strong independent solider. But what these photographs never show is women in their act of duty in the military lifestyle. On the second photograph I find it has a very intense atmosphere with the dark moody background colour, it really sets a strong contrast between the soldier and the background. It makes her personality stand out and her facial expression show more, it almost has film scenery to this photograph with the bold graphics. Mental Health One area of the military that needs to be addressed is the mental health that effects the soldiers lifestyle during and after war. Mental health is a big part of our lives for it reflects on how we control our thinking and the way we react to life.   For it helps decides how we adapt to a variety of requirements, connect to others and make choices. Mental health problems are not a sign of weakness. The reality is that it affects the strong and the brave just like everyone else. Scott (2013) states One in three returning warriors has or is likely to develop serious mental health and / or psychological issues that make it difficult for them to adjust to a normal environment. Mood disorders may affect anyone at any time, but soldiers are at a particularly greater threat for developing conditions such as major depression disorder (MDD) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). As I was collecting my research I came across a list of the most common side effects of Depression disorder and Post-traumatic stress disorder that Scott (2013) included; Excessive Fatigue (tiredness) Concentration problems Irritability Vision change Reduced reaction time Decision-making difficulties Decreased memory and forgetfulness Attention and concentration difficulties Confused about recent events Repeating of thoughts and questions Personality changes Impulsiveness Anger Feeling as though a certain event is happening again Having nightmares of terrifying events and night sweats Feeling distant from those you previously felt close to Feeling more aggressive or even violent Contemplating suicide Feelings of guilt Sadness Depression Nervousness Changes in sleep patterns I have included two photographs that I researched online the internet (Google Images) that relate to this section on Mental Health. These two photographs give a different message each. One shows a soldier fighting against mental health and the other shows a soldier breaking down from fighting against mental health. For the first poster, the designer has used creative imaging by using typography. The typography is large and bold and contrasts strongly against the background. The colours that have been used on the background have an interesting effect to the poster, the smoky pattern brightens it up against the black. The design is succesful is a sense with all the colours and large text making it eye catching to the viewer. The designer has been creative by modeling the soldier as if he is screaming / shouting, has an intense appearance to the image. For the second poster the designer has created completely different scenery, it gives a more depressing emotion with the dark dull colou rs used within the background. This photograph is successful as it sums up a big percentage of a soldier struggling against is his own mental health, not being able to cope with the wars they have witnessed.