The eNotes Blog Ruh Roh, JK Rowling Upsets Middle England and SikhCommunity

Ruh Roh, JK Rowling Upsets Middle England and SikhCommunity It seems that when beloved Harry Potter author JK Rowling departed Hogwarts with her latest novel, she strayed a little far from her adoring public, too. The new book, A Casual Vacancy, has been published for all of a week and is already shrouded in controversy. Though it  was never intended to be for a young audience, its mature content was the first apparent no-no that sent some readers over the edge. Next, she offended her home county of Gloucestershire by depicting its inhabitants as snobby bigots.  Now, the author battles allegations that her novel is offensive to Sikhs, and may actually face a nation-wide ban in India. Deary me. Before were all caught up in the sensationalism of these allegations, here are the straight facts of the book: 1. This is NOT Harry Potter and the Casual Vacancy, people. Anyone expecting this book to be a follow-up to the Harry Potter series, or even in the same vein, has quite the shock coming. Clearly, when she wrote The Casual Vacancy Rowling was looking to her next project as a departure from the world of fantasy that she dwelt in before. I think I would be too if I had been writing in the same world for nearly two decades. She has been quite clear from the start that this is not one for the kiddies. Unfortunately, the writer will have a hard time shaking the identity associated with her name, as parents now have the tough task of explaining to their kids that they cant read the latest Jo Rowling creation. For one thing, her self-described rural comedy of manners has some quite mature content. While the most deplorable word uttered in Harry Potter was b****, in this one Rowling gets a little more, um, creative In fact, some of the scenarios and colorful vocab seem to have been heightened by the sheer fact that Rowling couldnt write them in her first seven published novels. She explains her need to write the rude bits in an interview with The New Yorker: She was ready for a change of genre. â€Å"I had a lot of real-world material in me, believe you me,† Rowling said. â€Å"The thing about fantasy- there are certain things you just don’t do in fantasy. You don’t have sex near unicorns. It’s an ironclad rule. It’s tacky. Quite right. In any case, youve been forewarnedthis one is rated R. 2. This book should be placed under the Fiction section. Rowling comes from a small village in the English countryside called Tutshil. While she probably used the quaint Gloucestershire surroundings as inspiration for the backdrop of her story, I doubt the plot of a parish council election gone haywire is anything but the figment of her imagination. However, the books fictional town of Pagford, a hotbed of cruelty and snobbery,  has tongues wagging all over Middle England, saying Rowling has shed an unflattering light on her home county, probably for the novels  bleak subject matter, which includes child abuse, prostitution and drugs. Does nobody read that fine-print reminder that everything and everyone contained in the book is a work of fiction, and not based on facts or real people? I suppose that message flies out the window when your hometowns feelings are hurt. Still, this is a little blown out of proportion. 3. The characters thoughts do not reflect the authors. This goes for any book. One doesnt read American Psycho and assume Bret Easton Ellis shares the views of deranged serial killer Patrick Bateman. But for some reason, perhaps because of the grand scale that this novel has debuted on, readers are offended by the derogatory views expressed by a select group of unsavory characters in The Casual Vacancy. In particular, the language used in reference to an Indian girl in the novel has members of the Sikh community in an uproar. In the novel, Sukhvinder is a young Sikh girl who is bullied by some of her peers. In the dialogue (NOT in the third-person objective narration) she is meanly called the Great Hermaphrodite, a hairy man-woman, and finally mustachioed yet large-mammaried. Its these descriptions of her that out of context have Sikh spokesman Avtar Singh Makkar  calling for a widespread ban of the novel. Note: the important words to reiterate there are  out of context. From The Telegraph, Rowling has said she included Sukhvinder’s experiences as an example of â€Å"corrosive racism†. She has spoken of her admiration for the Sikh faith and said she was fascinated by a religion in which men and women are â€Å"explicitly described as equal in the holy book†. A spokesman for Hachette, Rowling’s publisher, said the remarks were made by a character bullying Sukhvinder. â€Å"It is quite clear in the text of the book that negative thoughts, actions and remarks made by a character, Fats, who is bullying Sukhvinder, are his alone. When described in the narrative voice, the depiction of Sukhvinder is quite different to this,† the spokesman said. However, Rowlings statement of defense may not be enough to prevent a country-wide boycott of The Casual Vacancy in India, if the members of the  Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee deem it derogatory once theyve finished reading it.                                                                                          Ã‚   The whole controversy surrounding this novel has obviously been brought on by the massive expectations set for Rowling. She certainly wouldnt have had to face such scrutiny had this novel been published before her famed fantasy series. I cant help but think that its not really fair for her to be accused of such things; its as though everyone holds Rowling to a higher standard than other fiction writers. Is it possible for her to shake the Harry Potter image and create a new fan base? Mixed reviews for the content of the book aside, do you feel this criticism is warranted or not?

bonobos essays

bonobos essays Bonobos are African apes related to the chimpanzee and the closest to humans. Bonobos are only found in the Congo, south of the Congo River. They are very similar to chimpanzees except that they have smaller heads, flatter faces, and longer lower limbs than chimpanzees. They share 98.4% of the same genetic make-up (DNA). Bonobos have many similarities to humans. One important and not very common to other apes is the way they walk. Bonobos walk bipedally, on two feet, more easily and for longer periods of time than the other apes. They are also very intelligent. They have been able to learn the meanings of many human words, and can be trained to communicate with humans using sign language. The bonobo society is more peaceful, because they dont have to fight for the females. Like humans, bonobo females are sexually receptive throughout most of their estrus cycle. Chimpanzees on the other hand, only mate during the few days when a female is fertile. They have all kinds of sex, male - male, female - female, male- female. Similar to many humans today. Bonobos diet is slightly different from ours. They eat termites, ants, worms, small reptiles and squirrels. They also eat Fruit, leaves, stems, shoots, honey. . Bonobos usually walk on all fours, supporting the upper part of their bodies with their knuckles. Humans only walk on twos (our legs). They use sex instead of aggression. Instead of war they make love. Humans go to war with each. Maybe we should learn from bonobos to make love instead of war. Only a relatively small number of bonobos remain in the wild today. Sadly we are losing a lot of primates because of us. I have learned so much about bonobos and found them quite interesting, especially their sexuality. I find them almost the same as chimpanzees except for the make love instead of war. Bonobos are also more peaceful and quite than us humans. We have a lot to learn from Bonobos. ...

Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words - 35

Essay Example Comprehensive job descriptions provide the main characteristics of the given position and clarify what expectations the employee should have again his job. Role perception is an association aiding both the manager and the employee in presenting and advertising the job position. For example, when hiring an IT specialist managers need to understand the key tasks and what skills are required by the applicant to accomplish the job in the most effective way. The role perception of the best candidate for the IT department requires having technical background. Even if the company provides initial training, the candidate must ensure that his role perception of IT specialist matches this of the Human Resources. IT specialist should be familiar with server administration, network programs and database administration. Also he has to have knowledge in operational software, data analysis and implementation of certain, internal company programs. Thus, making a job description easily understandable and keeping adequate feedback for a position is of crucial importance for ensuring the candidate’s understanding of what role he plays within the company. The best way to utilize the stereotyping ideas in enhancing the organizational behaviour is to employ the idea of positive organizational behaviour. This has direct implications for the success of a business. The key outcome of positive organizational behaviour is that it engages the employees to have a better understanding of the relationship between work and their personal happiness. In broader sense the stereotyping idea of enhancing the organizational behaviour makes the company flourish. Positivity at the work place helps to accomplish one’s purpose of life. Undoubtedly, working conditions inspire employees to engage more actively in the working processes. Imagine a customer service representative, who takes responsibility to deal with

Privacy Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Privacy - Essay Example ual’s wish to remain obscured or relatively unnoticed from the public and security which can also be achieved by privacy in reference to the protection of information. Its importance has also been an issue that has been discussed on a large scale with relevance to how important it is for the existence of privacy within the society (Wack, 2010). An invasion of privacy refers to the intrusion of ones personal matters or the revelation of information to the public that an individual would have rather kept secret or away from the public eye. This invasion of privacy is the main opponent that individuals face in the fight to withhold information that they may not want others to know. There are a number of scenarios where privacy is upheld and it does not just deal with an individual on a personal level. There are different types of privacy that ca n be considered according to the particular situation that is being faced at that particular time. The types of privacy include: Personal Privacy – This type of privacy refers to an individual on a personal level where it is one person is involved. This usually has to do with the exposure of a person’s body to others. For example, a person usually prefers to be alone in certain situations such as taking a bath or changing their clothes because they would not like a person to see them in a state of undress (Solove, 2009). This can also be referred to as personal modesty. There is also the issue of privacy in terms of living conditions and relationships with those who may live next to you. This can be seen in the walls and fences that are erected around an individual’s personal property in a bid to maintain their coming and goings private (Wack, 2010). There is also the concept of curtains that are erected on windows to prevent people from being able to see inside a house. Personal privacy has always been in existence since the formation of societies as individuals have always wanted to keep certain aspects of their

Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Essay Example for Free

Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Essay Known as Netaji (leader), Mr. Bose was a fierce and popular leader in the political scene in pre-independence India . He was the president of the Indian National Congress in 1937 and 1939, and founded a nationalist force called the Indian National Army. He was acclaimed as a semigod, akin to the many mythological heroes like Rama or Krishna, and continues as a legend in Indian mind. Subhas Chandra was born on January 23rd 1897 in Cuttack (in present day Orissa) as the ninth child among fourteen, of Janakinath Bose, an advocate, and Prabhavatidevi, a pious and God-fearing lady. A brilliant student, he topped the matriculation examination of Calcutta province and passed his B. A. in Philosophy from the Presidency College in Calcutta. He was strongly influenced by Swami Vivekanandas teachings and was known for his patriotic zeal as a student. His parents wishes kept him away from the Indian freedom struggle and led him into studies for the Indian Civil Service in England. Although he finished those examinations also at the top of his class (4th), he could not complete his aprecentship and returned to India, being deeply disturbed by the Jallianwalla Bagh massacre. He came under the influence of Mahatma Gandhi and joined the Indian National Congress (a. k. a. Congress). Gandhiji directed him to work with Deshbandhu Chittaranjan Das, the Bengali leader whom Bose acknowledged as his political guru. Bose was outspoken in his anti-British stance and was jailed 11 (eleven) times between 1920 and 1941 for periods varying between six months and three years. He was the leader of the youth wing of the Congress Party, in the forefront of the trade union movement in India and organized Service League, another wing of Congress. He was admired for his great skills in organization development . The Influence of Bose Bose advocated complete freedom for India at the earliest, whereas the Congress Committee wanted it in phases, through a Dominion status. Other younger leaders including Jawaharlal Nehru supported Bose and finally at the historic Lahore Congress convention, the Congress had to adopt Poorna Swaraj (complete freedom) as its motto. Bhagat Singhs martyrdom and the inability of the Congress leaders to save his life infuriated Bose and he started a movement opposing the Gandhi-Irvin Peace Pact. He was imprisoned and expelled from India. But defying the ban, he came back to India and was imprisoned again! Clouds of World War II were gathering fast and Bose warned the Indian people and the British against dragging India into the war and the material losses she could incur. He was elected president of the Indian National Congress twice in 1937 and in 1939, the second time defeating Gandhijis nominee. He brought a resolution to give the British six months to hand India over to the Indians, failing which there would be a revolt. There was much opposition to his rigid stand, and he resigned from the post of president and formed a progressive group known as the Forward Block (1939). The second World War broke out in September of 1939, and just as predicted by Bose, India was declared as a warring state (on behalf of the British) by the Governor General, without consulting Indian leaders. The Congress party was in power in seven major states and all state governments resigned in protest. Subhas Chandra Bose now started a mass movement against utilizing Indian resources and men for the great war. To him, it made no sense to further bleed poor Indians for the sake of colonial and imperial nations. There was a tremendous response to his call and the British promptly imprisoned him . He took to a hunger-strike, and after his health deteriorated on the 11th day of fasting, he was freed and was placed under house arrest. The British were afraid of violent reactions in India, should something happen to Bose in prison. The Mystery Begins Bose suddenly disappeared in the beginning of 1941 and it was not until many days that authorities realized Bose was not inside the house they were guarding! He traveled by foot, car and train and resurfaced in Kabul (now in Afghanistan), only to disappear once again. In November 1941, his broadcast from German radio sent shock waves among the British and electrified the Indian masses who realized that their leader was working on a master plan to free their motherland. It also gave fresh confidence to the revolutionaries in India who were challenging the British in many ways. The Axis powers (mainly Germany) assured Bose military and other help to fight the British. Japan by this time had grown into another strong world power, occupying key colonies of Dutch, French, and British colonies in Asia. Bose had struck alliance with Germany and Japan. He rightly felt that his presence in the East would help his countrymen in freedom struggle and second phase of his saga began. It is told that he was last seen on land near Keil canal in Germany, in the beginning of 1943. A most hazardous journey was undertaken by him under water, covering thousands of miles, crossing enemy territories. He was in the Atlantic, the Middle East, Madagascar and the Indian ocean. Battles were being fought over land, in the air and there were mines in the sea. At one stage he traveled 400 miles in a rubber dinghy to reach a Japanese submarine, which took him to Tokyo. He was warmly received in Japan and was declared the head of the Indian army, which consisted of about 40,000 soldiers from Singapore and other eastern regions. Bose called it the Indian National Army (INA) and a government by the name Azad Hind Government was declared on the 21st of October 1943. INA freed the Andaman and Nicobar islands from the British, and were renamed as Swaraj and Shaheed islands. The Government started functioning. Leader of Masses and the Military  Bose in INA Uniform 1943 Early Success and Tragic End Bose wanted to free India from the Eastern front. He had taken care that Japanese interference was not present from any angle. Army leadership, administration and communications were managed only by Indians. Subhash Brigade, Azad Brigade and Gandhi Brigade were formed. INA marched through Burma and occupied Coxtown on the Indian Border. A touching scene ensued when the solders entered their free motherland. Some lay down and kissed, some placed pieces of mother earth on their heads, others wept. They were now inside of India and were determined to drive out the British! Delhi Chalo (Lets march to Delhi) was the war cry. The bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki changed the history of mankind. Japan had to surrender. Bose was in Singapore at that time and decided to go to Tokyo for his next course of action. Unfortunately, the plane he boarded crashed near Taipei and he died in the hospital of severe burns. He was just 48. The Indian people were so much enamored of Boses oratory and leadership qualities, fealressness and mysterious adventures, that he had become a legend. They refused to believe that he died in the plane crash. The famous Red Fort trial wherein Boses generals and the INA officers were tried, became landmark events. Initially, the British Government thought of a court-martial, but there was a countrywide protest against any kind of punishment. For common Indians, Axis and Allied powers hardly mattered, but they could not tolerate punishment of fellow countrymen who were fighting for freedom. The British Government was in no position to face open rebellion or mutiny and a general amnesty for INA soldiers was declared. While Boses approach to Indian freedom continues to generate heated debate in the Indian society today, there is no denying of his burning patriotism, his tireless efforts to free India from inside and outside and his reckless adventures in trying to reach his goals. His exploits later became a legend due to the many stories carried by the disbanded INA soldiers who came from every nook and corner of our great country. Had he lived, Subhas Chandra Bose could have given a new turn to Independent Indias political history. But he lives on eternally in the Indian mind, more famous after his death.

Love in A.S. Byatts Possession, Zadie Smiths White Teeth, and the Ful

Love in A.S. Byatt's Possession, Zadie Smith's White Teeth, and the Full Monty by Peter Cuttaneo As British literature and film seek to sort out the identity crisis that England finds herself in as a post-imperial nation, a variety of views have emerged concerning solutions for Britain’s confusion. One reoccurring theme to these views is love. A.S. Byatt’s Possession, Zadie Smith’s White Teeth, and The Full Monty, directed by Peter Cattaneo, all deal with a traditional, romantic view of true love, whether it is presented as a necessity or a dispensable ideal. While Possession and The Full Monty show romantic love as an essential part of what will push Britain towards rejuvenation, White Teeth presents romance as something that can be forfeited in light of the fact that mere survival is the ultimate goal. In Possession, Byatt juxtaposes many different types of relationships in order to set up an obvious comparison between what brings renewal and what does not. Roland Michell, a twentieth century scholar studying the works of nineteenth century poet R.H. Ash, is initially in a boring relationship with Val, an embittered ex-scholar, whom he has admittedly settled for. He does not love her, and, as a result, his life with her is bland. Roland later becomes colleagues with feminist Maude Bailey, whose work with another nineteenth century poet, Christabel LaMotte, coincides with his research on Ash. As they uncover Ash and LaMotte’s secret love affair, Byatt is able to display an exciting yet sorrowful love. Despite its sad ending, LaMotte and Ash’s relationship brings freshness into their otherwise monotonous lives. As the novel progresses, Maude and Roland come to respect and, ultimately, love each o... ...r future but rather settle with her present in order to survive. While Byatt’s Possession and Cattaneo’s The Full Monty are concerned with a Britain that pushes herself towards greatness through love and acceptance, Smith is more concerned with Britain just moving forward. Yet all three of these works have interesting viewpoints on the importance of true, romantic love in post-imperial Britain. Perhaps Britain can be rejuvenated through love, as Byatt suggests. Perhaps only love can bring new life to her bored, undefined citizens, as Cattaneo puts forth. Or, as Smith proposes, perhaps Britain just needs to stop all this focusing on the ideal and trying to redefine herself through these fairytale, unrealistic notions. No matter which stance the British work takes, it is important to note the question that they each pose: could love really find a way?

Strategic Management and Competitive Advantage

Operations Management, 10e (Heizer/Render)Chapter 2 Operations Strategy in a Global Environment1) NAFTA seeks to phase out all trade and tariff barriers among Canada, Mexico, and the United States. Answer: TRUE Diff: 2 Topic: A global view of operations AACSB: Multicultural and Diversity Objective: no LO 2) The World Trade Organization has helped to significantly reduce tariffs around the world. Answer: TRUE Diff: 2 Topic: A global view of operations AACSB: Multicultural and Diversity Objective: no LO 3) Production processes are being dispersed to take advantage of national differences in labor costs. Answer: TRUE Diff: 2 Topic: A global view of operations AACSB: Multicultural and Diversity Objective: no LO 4) NAFTA seeks to phase out all trade and tariff barriers between the United States and Asia. Answer: FALSE Diff: 2 Topic: A global view of operations AACSB: Multicultural and Diversity Objective: no LO 5) One reason for global operations is to gain improvements in the supply chain. Answer: TRUE Diff: 2 Topic: A global view of operations AACSB: Multicultural and Diversity Objective: no LO 6) One reason to globalize is to learn to improve operations. Answer: TRUE Diff: 1 Topic: A global view of operations AACSB: Multicultural and Diversity Objective: no LO 7) To attract and retain global talent, and to expand a product's life cycle, are both reasons to globalize. Answer: TRUE Diff: 2 Topic: A global view of operations AACSB: Multicultural and Diversity Objective: no LO 8) A product will always be in the same stage of its product life cycle regardless of the country. Answer: FALSE Diff: 2 Topic: A global view of operations AACSB: Multicultural and Diversity Objective: no LO 9) The World Trade Organization helps provide governments and industries around the world with protection from firms that engage in unethical conduct. Answer: TRUE Diff: 2 Topic: A global view of operations AACSB: Ethical Reasoning Objective: no LO 10) Boeing's development of the 787 Dreamliner is an example of a company obtaining a competitive advantage through product differentiation/innovation. Answer: TRUE Diff: 1 Topic: Global company profile Objective: no LO 11) An organization's strategy is its purpose or rationale for an organization's existence. Answer: FALSE Diff: 1 Topic: Developing missions and strategies Objective: LO2-1 12) Operations strategies are implemented in the same way in all types of organizations. Answer: FALSE Diff: 2 Topic: Developing missions and strategies Objective: LO2-1 13) Experience differentiation is an extension of product differentiation, accomplished by using people's five senses to create an experience rather than simply providing a service. Answer: TRUE Diff: 2 Topic: Achieving competitive advantage through operations Objective: LO2-2 14) An organization's ability to generate unique advantages over competitors is central to a successful strategy implementation. Answer: TRUE Diff: 2 Topic: Achieving competitive advantage through operations Objective: LO2-2 15) Low-cost leadership is the ability to distinguish the offerings of the organization in any way that the customer perceives as adding value. Answer: FALSE Diff: 2 Topic: Ten strategic OM decisions Objective: LO2-3 16) Most services are tangible; this factor determines how the ten decisions of operations management are handled differently for goods than for services. Answer: FALSE Diff: 2 Topic: Ten strategic OM decisions Objective: LO2-3 17) The relative importance of each of the ten operations decisions depends on the ratio of goods and services in an organization. Answer: TRUE Diff: 2 Topic: Ten strategic OM decisions Objective: LO2-3 18) Decisions that involve what is to be made and what is to be purchased fall under the heading of supply-chain management. Answer: TRUE Diff: 2 Topic: Ten strategic OM decisions Objective: LO2-3 19) Manufacturing organizations have ten strategic OM decisions, while service organizations have only eight. Answer: FALSE Diff: 1 Topic: Ten strategic OM decisions Objective: LO2-3 20) Errors made within the location decision area may overwhelm efficiencies in other areas. Answer: TRUE Diff: 2 Topic: Ten strategic OM decisions Objective: LO2-3 21) Southwest Airlines' core competence is operations. Answer: TRUE Diff: 2 Topic: Strategy development and implementation Objective: LO2-4 22) Key success factors and core competencies are synonyms. Answer: FALSE Diff: 2 Topic: Strategy development and implementation Objective: LO2-4 23) SWOT analysis identifies those activities that make a difference between having and not having a competitive advantage. Answer: FALSE Diff: 2 Topic: Strategy development and implementation Objective: LO2-4 24) For the greatest chance of success, an organization's operations management strategy must support the company's strategy. Answer: TRUE Diff: 2 Topic: Strategy development and implementation Objective: LO2-4 25) Key Success Factors are those activities that are key to achieving competitive advantage. Answer: TRUE Diff: 2 Topic: Strategy development and implementation Objective: LO2-4 26) A multinational corporation has extensive international business involvements. Answer: TRUE Diff: 1 Topic: Global operations strategy options AACSB: Multicultural and Diversity Objective: LO2-5 27) The multidomestic OM strategy maximizes local responsiveness while achieving a significant cost advantage. Answer: FALSE Diff: 2 Topic: Global operations strategy options AACSB: Multicultural and Diversity Objective: LO2-5 28) Firms using the global strategy can be thought of as â€Å"world companies.† Answer: FALSE Diff: 2 Topic: Global operations strategy options AACSB: Multicultural and Diversity Objective: LO2-5 29) Which of the following statements regarding the Dreamliner 787 is true? A) Boeing has found partners in over a dozen countries. B) The new aircraft incorporates a wide range of aerospace technologies. C) The new aircraft uses engines from not one, but two manufacturers. D) Boeing will add only 20 to 30 percent of the aircraft's value. E) All of the above are true. Answer: E Diff: 2 Topic: Global company profile Objective: no LO 30) Boeing's new 787 Dreamliner A) is assembled in Washington, D.C. B) uses engines from Japan C) has its fuselage sections built in Australia D) has increased efficiency from new engine technology E) results from a partnership of about a dozen companies Answer: D Diff: 2 Topic: Global company profile Objective: no LO 31) Examples of response to the global environment include A) Boeing's worldwide sales and production B) Benneton's flexibility in design, production, and distribution C) a Chinese manufacturer, Haier, opening plants in the United States D) Ford's partnerships with Volvo and Mazda E) all of the above Answer: E Diff: 1 Topic: A global view of operations AACSB: Multicultural and Diversity Objective: LO2-5 32) Which of the following is an example of globalization of operations strategy? A) Boeing's Dreamliner has engines with higher fuel/payload efficiency. B) Ford's new auto models have dent-resistant panels. C) A Chinese manufacturer, Haier, now operates plants in the United States. D) Hard Rock Cafà © provides an â€Å"experience differentiation† at its restaurants. E) All of the above are examples. Answer: C Diff: 2 Topic: A global view of operations AACSB: Multicultural and Diversity Objective: LO2-5 33) Cost cutting in international operations can take place because of A) lower taxes and tariffs B) lower wage scales C) lower indirect labor costs D) less stringent regulations E) all of the above Answer: E Diff: 2 Topic: A global view of operations AACSB: Multicultural and Diversity Objective: LO2-5 34) Which of the following did the authors not suggest as a reason for globalizing operations? A) reduce costs B) improve the supply chain C) stockholder approval ratings D) attract new markets E) None of the above were suggested. Answer: C Diff: 2 Topic: A global view of operations AACSB: Multicultural and Diversity Objective: LO2-5 35) Multinational organizations can shop from country to country and cut costs through A) lower wage scales B) lower indirect labor costs C) less stringent regulations D) lower taxes and tariffs E) all of the above Answer: E Diff: 2 Topic: A global view of operations AACSB: Multicultural and Diversity Objective: LO2-5 36) The term maquiladora is most synonymous with A) free trade zones in Mexico B) Chinese forced labor camps C) home-based or cottage industry D) areas that do not meet U.S. standards for workplace safety and pollution E) none of the above Answer: A Diff: 2 Topic: A global view of operations AACSB: Multicultural and Diversity Objective: no LO 37) Which of the following is true of maquiladoras? A) They discourage foreign businesses from outsourcing. B) They assess tariffs only on the value-added work done. C) They originated in China. D) none of the above E) all of the above Answer: B Diff: 2 Topic: A global view of operations Objective: no LO 38) Which of the following represent reasons for globalizing operations? A) to gain improvements in the supply chain B) to improve operations C) to expand a product's life cycle D) to attract and retain global talent E) all of the above Answer: E Diff: 2 Topic: A global view of operations AACSB: Multicultural and Diversity Objective: LO2-5 39) Which of the following does not represent reasons for globalizing operations? A) reduce costs B) improve supply chain C) reduce responsiveness D) attract and retain global talent E) None of the above are valid reasons for globalizing operations. Answer: C Diff: 2 Topic: A global view of operations AACSB: Multicultural and Diversity Objective: LO2-5 40) NAFTA seeks to A) substitute cheap labor in Mexico for expensive labor in the United States B) curb illegal immigration from Mexico to the United States C) phase out all trade and tariff barriers between the United States and Mexico D) phase out all trade and tariff barriers between the United States, Canada, and Mexico E) All of the above are NAFTA goals. Answer: D Diff: 2 Topic: A global view of operations AACSB: Multicultural and Diversity Objective: no LO 41) With reference to cultural and ethical issues, the World Trade Organization has A) succeeded in providing equal protection of intellectual property among nations B) made progress in providing equal protection of intellectual property among nations C) phased out all trade and tariff barriers between the United States and Mexico D) eliminated slave labor and child labor E) played little role in addressing cultural and ethical issues among nations Answer: B Diff: 3 Topic: A global view of operations AACSB: Ethical Reasoning Objective: no LO 42) Which of the following is true about business strategies? A) An organization should stick with its strategy for the life of the business. B) All firms within an industry will adopt the same strategy. C) Well defined missions make strategy development much easier. D) Strategies are formulated independently of SWOT analysis. E) Organizational strategies depend on operations strategies. Answer: C Diff: 2 Topic: Developing missions and strategies Objective: LO2-1 43) Which of the following activities takes place once the mission has been developed? A) The firm develops alternative or back-up missions in case the original mission fails. B) The functional areas develop their functional area strategies. C) The functional areas develop their supporting missions. D) The ten OM decision areas are prioritized. E) Operational tactics are developed. Answer: C Diff: 2 Topic: Developing missions and strategies Objective: LO2-1 44) Which of the following statements about organizational missions is false? A) They reflect a company's purpose. B) They indicate what a company intends to contribute to society. C) They are formulated after strategies are known. D) They define a company's reason for existence. E) They provide guidance for functional area missions. Answer: C Diff: 2 Topic: Developing missions and strategies Objective: LO2-1 45) The impact of strategies on the general direction and basic character of a company is A) short range B) medium range C) long range D) temporal E) minimal Answer: C Diff: 2 Topic: Developing missions and strategies Objective: LO2-1 46) The fundamental purpose of an organization's mission statement is to A) create a good human relations climate in the organization B) define the organization's purpose in society C) define the operational structure of the organization D) generate good public relations for the organization E) define the functional areas required by the organization Answer: B Diff: 2 Topic: Developing missions and strategies Objective: LO2-1 47) Which of the following is true? A) Corporate mission is shaped by functional strategies. B) Corporate strategy is shaped by functional strategies. C) Functional strategies are shaped by corporate strategy. D) External conditions are shaped by corporate mission. E) Functional area missions are merged to become the organizational mission. Answer: C Diff: 3 Topic: Developing missions and strategies Objective: LO2-1 48) __________ and __________ are to differentiation competitive advantages as __________ and __________ are to response competitive advantages. (*See figure 2.4a in the textbook) A) Human Resources, layout; scheduling, maintenance B) Product, quality; location, process C) Quality, maintenance; inventory, scheduling D) Product, supply chain; layout, quality E) Product, quality; maintenance, scheduling Answer: E Diff: 3 Topic: Achieving competitive advantage through operations Objective: LO2-2 49) Which of the following is least likely to be a Cost Leadership competitive advantage? A) low overhead B) effective capacity use C) inventory management D) broad product line E) mass production Answer: D Diff: 2 Topic: Achieving competitive advantage through operations Objective: LO2-2 50) According to the authors, which of the following strategic concepts allow firms to achieve their missions? A) productivity, efficiency, and quality leadership B) differentiation, cost leadership, and quick response C) differentiation, quality leadership, and quick response D) distinctive competency, cost leadership, and experience E) differentiation, distinctive competency, quality leadership, and capacity Answer: B Diff: 2 Topic: Achieving competitive advantage through operations Objective: LO2-2 51) A firm can effectively use its operations function to yield competitive advantage through all of the following except A) customization of the product B) setting equipment utilization goals below the industry average C) speed of delivery D) constant innovation of new products E) maintaining a variety of product options Answer: B Diff: 2 Topic: Achieving competitive advantage through operations Objective: LO2-2 52) Which of the following has progressed the furthest along its product life cycle? A) drive-thru restaurants B) Boeing 787 C) iPods D) Twitter E) Xbox 360 Answer: A Diff: 2 Topic: Issues in operations strategy Objective: no LO 53) The ability of an organization to produce goods or services that have some uniqueness in their characteristics is A) mass production B) time-based competition C) competing on productivity D) competing on flexibility E) competing on differentiation Answer: E Diff: 2 Topic: Achieving competitive advantage through operations Objective: LO2-2 54) Which of the following has made the least progress along its product life cycle? A) drive-thru restaurants B) Boeing 787 C) iPods D) Twitter E) Xbox 360 Answer: D Diff: 2 Topic: Issues in operations strategy Objective: no LO 55) A strategy is a(n) A) set of opportunities in the marketplace B) broad statement of purpose C) simulation used to test various product line options D) plan for cost reduction E) action plan to achieve the mission Answer: E Diff: 2 Topic: Achieving competitive advantage through operations Objective: LO2-2 56) Which of the following statements best characterizes delivery reliability? A) a company that always delivers on the same day of the week B) a company that always delivers at the promised time C) a company that delivers more frequently than its competitors D) a company that delivers faster than its competitors E) a company that has a computerized delivery scheduling system Answer: B Diff: 3 Topic: Achieving competitive advantage through operations Objective: LO2-2 57) Which of the following is an example of competing on the basis of differentiation? A) A firm manufactures its product with less raw material waste than its competitors do. B) A firm's products are introduced into the market faster than its competitors' products are. C) A firm's distribution network routinely delivers its product on time. D) A firm offers more reliable products than its competitors do. E) A firm advertises more than its competitors do. Answer: D Diff: 2 Topic: Achieving competitive advantage through operations Objective: LO2-2 58) The ability of an organization to produce services that, by utilizing the consumer's five senses, have some uniqueness in their characteristics is A) mass production B) time-based competition C) differentiation D) flexible response E) experience differentiation Answer: E Diff: 2 Topic: Achieving competitive advantage through operations Objective: LO2-2 59) Which of the following best describes â€Å"experience differentiation†? A) immerses consumers in the delivery of a service B) uses people's five senses to enhance the service C) complements physical elements with visual and sound elements D) consumers may become active participants in the product or service E) All of the above are elements of experience differentiation. Answer: E Diff: 1 Topic: Achieving competitive advantage through operations Objective: LO2-2 60) Experience Differentiation A) isolates the consumer from the delivery of a service B) is an extension of product differentiation in the service sector C) uses only the consumer's senses of vision and sound D) keeps consumers from becoming active participants in the service E) is the same as product differentiation, but applied in the service sector Answer: B Diff: 1 Topic: Achieving competitive advantage through operations Objective: LO2-2 61) Which of the following is the best example of competing on low-cost leadership? A) A firm produces its product with less raw material waste than its competitors. B) A firm offers more reliable products than its competitors. C) A firm's products are introduced into the market faster than its competitors' products. D) A firm's research and development department generates many ideas for new products. E) A firm advertises more than its competitors. Answer: A Diff: 3 Topic: Achieving competitive advantage through operations Objective: LO2-2 62) Franz Colruyt has achieved low-cost leadership through A) Spartan headquarters B) absence of voice mail C) low-cost facilities D) no background music E) all of the above Answer: E Diff: 1 Topic: Achieving competitive advantage through operations Objective: LO2-2 63) Franz Colruyt has achieved low-cost leadership through A) effective use of voice mail B) plastic, not paper, shopping bags C) background music that subtly encourages shoppers to buy more D) converting factories, garages, and theaters into retail outlets E) use of the Euro, not the currency of each European country Answer: D Diff: 1 Topic: Achieving competitive advantage through operations Objective: LO2-2 64) Which of the following is an example of competing on quick response? A) A firm produces its product with less raw material waste than its competitors. B) A firm offers more reliable products than its competitors. C) A firm's products are introduced into the market faster than its competitors' products. D) A firm's research and development department generates many ideas for new products. E) A firm advertises more than its competitors. Answer: C Diff: 3 Topic: Achieving competitive advantage through operations Objective: LO2-2 65) Costs, quality, and human resource decisions interact strongly with the __________ decision. A) layout design B) process and capacity design C) supply chain management D) goods and service design E) All of the above are correct. Answer: D Diff: 2 Topic: Ten strategic OM decisions Objective: LO2-3 66) Which of the following influences layout design? A) inventory requirements B) capacity needs C) personnel levels D) technology decisions E) All of the above influence layout decisions. Answer: E Diff: 2 Topic: Ten strategic OM decisions Objective: LO2-3 67) Response-based competitive advantage can be A) flexible response B) reliable response C) quick response D) all of the above E) none of the above Answer: D Diff: 2 Topic: Ten strategic OM decisions Objective: LO2-3 68) Which of the following is not an operations strategic decision? A) maintenance B) price C) layout design D) quality E) inventory Answer: B Diff: 2 Topic: Ten strategic OM decisions Objective: LO2-3 69) Which of the following OM strategic decisions pertains to sensible location of processes and materials in relation to each other? A) layout design B) goods and service design C) supply chain management D) inventory E) scheduling Answer: A Diff: 2 Topic: Ten strategic OM decisions Objective: LO2-3 70) Which of these companies is most apt to have quality standards that are relatively subjective? A) Chrysler B) Dell Computer C) Sanyo Electronics D) Harvard University E) Whirlpool Answer: D Diff: 2 Topic: Ten strategic OM decisions Objective: LO2-3 71) Which of the following will more likely locate near their customers? A) an automobile manufacturer B) an aluminum manufacturer C) an insurance company headquarters D) a medical clinic E) All of the above will tend to locate near their customers. Answer: D Diff: 2 Topic: Ten strategic OM decisions Objective: LO2-3 72) Which of the following statements concerning the operations management decision is relevant to services? A) There are many objective quality standards. B) The customer is not involved in most of the process. C) The work force's technical skills are very important. D) Labor standards vary depending on customer requirements. E) Ability to inventory may allow the leveling of the output rates. Answer: D Diff: 2 Topic: Ten strategic OM decisions Objective: LO2-3 73) Which of these organizations is likely to have the most important inventory decisions? A) a marketing research firm B) a lobbying agency C) a management consulting firm D) an aluminum manufacturer E) a law firm Answer: D Diff: 2 Topic: Ten strategic OM decisions Objective: LO2-3 74) Before establishing and implementing strategy, a resources view would ensure that which of the following resources are available: A) financial B) physical C) human D) technological E) all of the above Answer: E Diff: 2 Topic: Issues in operations strategy Objective: LO2-4 75) Porter's Five Forces Model is used to evaluate competition based on which 5 aspects? A) research and development, cost, legal regulations, suppliers, customers B) immediate rivals, Potential entrants, customers, suppliers, and substitute products C) potential entrants, customers, suppliers, legal regulations, and cost D) immediate rivals, potential entrants, cost, substitute products, and legal regulations E) none of the above Answer: B Diff: 2 Topic: Issues in operations strategy Objective: LO2-4 76) Porter's Five Forces Model contains which of the following? A) immediate rivals B) potential entrants C) customers D) suppliers E) all of the Above Answer: E Diff: 2 Topic: Issues in operations strategy Objective: LO2-4 77) Value-chain analysis is used to identify activities that represent, or can develop into, the core competencies of a business. Who introduced this concept? A) Ford B) Toyota C) Porter D) Smith E) None of the above Answer: C Diff: 2 Topic: Issues in operations strategy Objective: LO2-4 78) Value-chain analysis can be used to determine if a business is adding unique value in which of the following areas? A) product research B) human resources C) process innovation D) quality management E) all of the above Answer: E Diff: 2 Topic: Issues in operations strategy Objective: LO2-4 79) Which of the following is not part of value-chain analysis? A) product research B) quality management C) supply-chain management D) marketing E) human resources Answer: D Diff: 2 Topic: Issues in operations strategy Objective: LO2-4 80) Which of the following environmental factors has not been a factor in Microsoft's changing strategy? A) Google B) security issues C) faster processors D) the Internet E) none of the above Answer: E Diff: 2 Topic: Issues in operations strategy Objective: LO2-4 81) Standardization is an appropriate strategy in which stage of the product life cycle? A) introduction B) growth C) maturity D) decline E) retirement Answer: C Diff: 2 Topic: Issues in operations strategy Objective: LO2-4 82) Cost minimization is an appropriate strategy in which stage of the product life cycle? A) introduction B) growth C) maturity D) decline E) retirement Answer: D Diff: 2 Topic: Issues in operations strategy Objective: LO2-4 83) The stage in the product life cycle at which it is a poor time to change quality is A) introduction B) growth C) maturity D) decline E) incubation Answer: C Diff: 2 Topic: Issues in operations strategy Objective: LO2-4 84) Which of the following changes does not result in strategy changes? A) change in the company's financial situation B) a company's adoption of new technology C) change in the product life cycle D) change in the competitive environment E) change in job scheduling techniques Answer: E Diff: 2 Topic: Issues in operations strategy Objective: LO2-4 19 85) Which of the following statements is most correct? A) KSFs are often necessary, but not sufficient for competitive advantage. B) KSFs are often sufficient, but not necessary for competitive advantage. C) KSFs are neither necessary nor sufficient for competitive advantage. D) KSFs are both necessary and sufficient for competitive advantage. E) None of the above statements is correct. Answer: A Diff: 3 Topic: Strategy development and implementation Objective: LO2-4 86) Given the position of the iPod in the growth stage of its life cycle, which of the following OM Strategy/Issues should the makers of iPods be least concerned with at the current time? A) forecasting B) cost cutting C) increasing capacity D) product and process reliability E) enhancing distribution Answer: B Diff: 2 Topic: Issues in operations strategy Objective: LO2-4 87) Which of these organizations is likely to have the most complex inventory decisions? A) a marketing research firm B) a stock brokerage firm C) a management consulting firm D) a computer manufacturing company E) a high school Answer: D Diff: 2 Topic: Strategy development and implementation Objective: LO2-4 88) The three steps of the operations manager's job, in order, are: A) develop the strategy, establish the organizational structure, find the right staff B) develop the strategy, find the right staff, establish the organizational structure C) find the right staff, establish the organizational structure, develop the strategy D) find the right staff, develop the strategy, establish the organizational structure E) establish the organizational structure, find the right staff, develop the strategy Answer: A Diff: 2 Topic: Strategy development and implementation Objective: LO2-4 89) When developing the operations strategy for a new manufacturing organization, one of the most important considerations is that it A) requires minimal capital investment B) utilizes as much automation as possible C) utilizes an equal balance of labor and automation D) supports the overall competitive strategy of the company E) none of the above Answer: D Diff: 2 Topic: Strategy development and implementation Objective: LO2-4 90) Which of the international operations strategies involves high cost reductions and high local responsiveness? A) international strategy B) global strategy C) transnational strategy D) multidomestic strategy E) none of the above Answer: C Diff: 2 Topic: Global operations strategy options AACSB: Multicultural and Diversity Objective: LO2-5 91) Which of the international operations strategies involves low cost reductions and low local responsiveness? A) international strategy B) global strategy C) transnational strategy D) multidomestic strategy E) none of the above Answer: A Diff: 2 Topic: Global operations strategy options AACSB: Multicultural and Diversity Objective: LO2-5 92) Which of the international operations strategies uses import/export or licensing of existing products? A) international strategy B) global strategy C) transnational strategy D) multidomestic strategy E) none of the above Answer: A Diff: 2 Topic: Global operations strategy options AACSB: Multicultural and Diversity Objective: LO2-5 93) Which of the international operations strategies uses the existing domestic model globally? A) international strategy B) global strategy C) transnational strategy D) multidomestic strategy E) none of the above Answer: D Diff: 2 Topic: Global operations strategy options AACSB: Multicultural and Diversity Objective: LO2-5 94) The acronym MNC stands for A) Mexican National Committee (for international trade) B) Maquiladora Negates Competition C) Maytag-Nestlà © Corporation D) Multinational Corporation E) none of the above Answer: D Diff: 1 Topic: Global operations strategy options AACSB: Multicultural and Diversity Objective: LO2-5 95) Caterpillar and Texas Instruments are two firms that have benefited from the use of A) the multidomestic strategy option. B) the multinational corporation strategy. C) the transnational strategy option. D) the maquiladora system in Europe. E) the global strategy option. Answer: E Diff: 2 Topic: Global operations strategy options AACSB: Multicultural and Diversity Objective: LO2-5 96) Which of the following are examples of transnational firms? A) Nestlà © B) Asea Brown Boveri C) Reuters D) Citicorp E) All of the above are transnationals. Answer: E Diff: 2 Topic: Global operations strategy options AACSB: Multicultural and Diversity Objective: LO2-5 97) Boeing found its Dreamliner 787 partners in __________ countries. Answer: over a dozen Diff: 1 Topic: Global company profile AACSB: Multicultural and Diversity Objective: no LO 98) __________ are areas located along the U.S.-Mexico border in which factories receive preferential tariff treatment. Answer: Maquiladoras Diff: 2 Topic: A global view of operations AACSB: Multicultural and Diversity Objective: no LO 99) __________ is a free trade agreement among Canada, Mexico, and the United States. Answer: NAFTA–North American Free Trade Agreement Diff: 2 Topic: A global view of operations AACSB: Multicultural and Diversity Objective: no LO 100) __________ and __________ are two issues where significant cultural differences are large and progress toward global uniformity has been slow. Answer: Bribery, protection of intellectual property Diff: 1 Topic: Global company profile AACSB: Ethical Reasoning Objective: no LO 101) An organization that has worked to achieve global uniformity in cultural and ethical issues such as bribery, child labor, and environmental regulations is __________. Answer: the World Trade Organization Diff: 1 Topic: Global company profile AACSB: Ethical Reasoning Objective: no LO 102) In goods-producing organizations, __________,__________, and __________ may be inventoried. Answer: raw materials, work-in-process, finished goods Diff: 2 Topic: Ten strategic OM decisions Objective: LO2-3 103) Strategy is not static, but dynamic because of changes in the __________ and __________. Answer: organization, environment Diff: 2 Topic: Issues in operations strategy Objective: LO2-1 104) __________ is the stage in product life cycle at which it is a poor time to change quality. Answer: Maturity Diff: 2 Topic: Issues in operations strategy Objective: LO2-4 105) The __________ is how an organization expects to achieve its missions and goals. Answer: strategy Diff: 2 Topic: Developing missions and strategies Objective: LO2-1 106) The creation of a unique advantage over competitors is called a __________. Answer: competitive advantage Diff: 2 Topic: Achieving competitive advantage through operations Objective: LO2-2 107) Service organizations can immerse the consumer in the service, or have the consumer become a participant in the service, as they practice __________. Answer: experience differentiation Diff: 2 Topic: Achieving competitive advantage through operations Objective: LO2-2 108) Competitive advantage in operations can be achieved by __________, __________, and/or __________. Answer: differentiation, low cost, response Diff: 2 Topic: Achieving competitive advantage through operations Objective: LO2-2 109) A(n) __________ is a firm that has extensive involvement in international business, owning or controlling facilities in more than one country. Answer: MNC–multinational corporation Diff: 2 Topic: Global operations strategy options AACSB: Multicultural and Diversity Objective: LO2-5 110) The __________ strategy utilizes a standardized product across countries. Answer: global Diff: 2 Topic: Global operations strategy options AACSB: Multicultural and Diversity Objective: LO2-5 24 111) The __________ strategy uses exports and licenses to penetrate globally. Answer: international Diff: 2 Topic: Global operations strategy options AACSB: Multicultural and Diversity Objective: LO2-5 112) The __________ strategy uses subsidiaries, franchises, or joint ventures with substantial independence. Answer: multidomestic Diff: 2 Topic: Global operations strategy options AACSB: Multicultural and Diversity Objective: LO2-5 113) The __________ strategy describes a condition in which material, people, and ideas cross or transgress national boundaries. Answer: transnational Diff: 2 Topic: Global operations strategy options AACSB: Multicultural and Diversity Objective: LO2-5 114) Identify five countries from which Boeing's 787 Dreamliner has suppliers. Answer: France, Germany, UK, Italy, Japan, China, South Korea, Sweden, U.S. Diff: 1 Topic: Global company profile AACSB: Multicultural and Diversity Objective: no LO 115) Identify five parts which Boeing's 787 Dreamliner gets from global suppliers; match each part with the country that supplies it. Answer: France–landing gear, Germany–interior lighting, UK–fuel pumps or electronics, Italy–part of fuselage or horizontal stabilizer, Japan–wing box or hydraulic actuators, China–rudder or general parts, South Korea–wingtips, Sweden–cargo and access doors, U.S.–GE engines Diff: 2 Topic: Global company profile AACSB: Multicultural and Diversity Objective: no LO 116) How can global operations improve the supply chain? Answer: The supply chain can often be improved by locating facilities in countries where unique resources exist. Diff: 2 Topic: A global view of operations AACSB: Multicultural and Diversity Objective: no LO 117) How do global operations attract new markets? Answer: Since international operations require local interaction with customers, suppliers, and other competitive businesses, international firms inevitably learn about unique opportunities for new products and services. Diff: 2 Topic: A global view of operations AACSB: Multicultural and Diversity Objective: no LO 118) State two examples of cultural and ethical issues that face operations managers in a global environment. Answer: Student responses will vary, but there are several issues on which there are wide differences from country to country, culture to culture. Among those listed in the text are bribery, child labor, slave labor, and intellectual property rights. Students may bring forward from an earlier chapter issues such as environmental regulation or safe work environment, and may raise issues such as product safety. Diff: 2 Topic: A global view of operations AACSB: Ethical Reasoning Objective: no LO 119) What is the difference between a firm's mission and its strategy? Answer: A firm's mission is its purpose or rationale for an organization's existence, whereas a firm's strategy is how it expects to achieve its mission and goals. Diff: 2 Topic: Developing missions and strategies Objective: LO2-1 120) Since the early 1990s, residents in a number of developing countries have overcome culture, religious, ethnic, and political productivity barriers. These disappearing barriers coupled with simultaneous advances in technology, reliable shipping, and cheap communication have all led to the growth of what three things? Answer: 1. World trade. 2. Global capital markets. 3. International movement of people. Diff: 2 Topic: A global view of operations AACSB: Multicultural and Diversity Objective: no LO 121) Provide an example of an organization that achieves competitive advantage through experience differentiation. Explain. Answer: Answers will vary, but Disney and Hard Rock Cafà © are illustrated in the text. Competing on experience differentiation implies providing uniqueness to your service offering through immersion of the consumer into the service, with visual or sound elements to turn the service into an experience. Diff: 2 Topic: Achieving competitive advantage through operations Objective: LO2-2 122) With regard to the scheduling decision, how are goods-producing organizations different from service companies? Discuss. Answer: Goods-producing companies: the ability to inventory may allow leveling the output rates; service companies: primarily concerned with meeting the customer's immediate schedule. Diff: 3 Topic: Ten strategic OM decisions Objective: LO2-3 123) How do goods and services differ with regard to handling the quality decision? Answer: There are many objective quality standards for goods, whereas there are many subjective quality standards for services. Diff: 2 Topic: Ten strategic OM decisions Objective: LO2-3 124) What is the difference between goods and services in terms of their location selection? Answer: Manufacturers of goods may need to be located close to raw materials, or labor force. Services, on the other hand, typically are located close to the customer. Diff: 2 Topic: Ten strategic OM decisions Objective: LO2-3 125) How has Franz Colruyt achieved low-cost leadership? List three specific examples and describe each briefly. Answer: Several methods are listed in the text. Among these are no shopping bags, dim lighting, no voice mail, conversion of older buildings, Spartan offices. Diff: 2 Topic: Achieving competitive advantage through operations Objective: LO2-2 126) Define core competencies. Answer: A set of skills, talents, and activities that a firm does particularly well. Diff: 2 Topic: Strategy development and implementation Objective: LO2-4 127) For what type of organization might the location decision area be the least important of its ten decision areas? For what type of organization might the location decision be the most important of the ten decision areas? Discuss; augment your response with examples. Answer: The relationship between the organization and its suppliers or its customers is key. If that relationship is very weak (as in no transportation costs, or customers can reach the firm from any location), location diminishes in importance. If that relationship is strong (uniqueness of site, high transportation costs, customers will not travel far) location increases in importance. â€Å"Least† examples: Telemarketing firm, tax help-line, Internet sales. â€Å"Most† examples: gold mine, oil well, ski resort. Diff: 3 Topic: Ten strategic OM decisions AACSB: Reflective Thinking Objective: LO2-3 128) What is SWOT analysis? List its four elements and describe its purpose. Answer: The four elements of SWOT are strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. Its purpose is to maximize opportunities and minimize threats in the environment, while maximizing the advantages of the organization's strengths and minimizing the weaknesses. Diff: 2 Topic: Strategy development and implementation Objective: LO2-1 129) Are strategies static or dynamic? What are the forces that lead to this result? Answer: Strategies should be dynamic because of changes within the organization and changes in the environment. Diff: 2 Topic: Strategy development and implementation Objective: LO2-1 130) Identify and explain the four basic global operations strategies. Give an example of each strategy. Answer: The multidomestic strategy decentralizes operating decisions to each country to enhance local responsiveness. The primary example from the textbook is McDonald's. The global strategy centralizes operating decisions, with headquarters coordinating the standardization and learning between facilities. The textbook names Texas Instruments and Caterpillar. The international strategy uses exports and licenses to penetrate the global markets. Students may cite Pier One, World Market, or any wine store. The transnational strategy exploits the economies of scale and learning, as well as pressure for responsiveness, by recognizing that core competence does not reside in just the â€Å"home† country, but can exist anywhere in the organization. Examples from the textbook include Bertelsmann, Reuters and Nestlà ©. Diff: 3 Topic: Global operations strategy options AACSB: Multicu ltural and Diversity Objective: LO2-5 131) Nike is the world's largest athletic brand. Its innovative and broad product line helps drive sales, however a large majority of those sales are in the footwear business. Most of Nike's goods are produced overseas in low-cost factories and then imported to the final market. Nike currently has many of the top U.S. athletes under contract (Michael Jordon, Tiger Woods, Dwayne Wade) but international sales are still small in emerging markets. However, many competitors have attempted to copy Nike's business model (high-value branded products manufactured at low-cost), including Adidas and Reebok, while many retailers have attempted to pass on the low-cost pressure of retail consumers. Perform a SWOT analysis for Nike. Answer: Strengths- Innovative products, athletes under contract Weakness- Much of revenue is from footwear, eroding market share could cost Nike its profitability Opportunities- Sales can be increased in emerging markets using well-known athletes, broad product line can be expanded into high profit sectors (jewelry, sunglasses, golf, etc) Threats- International business makes Nike vulnerable to currency changes, low-cost pressure from retailers can decrease profit per item, competition could erode existing market share. Athletes’ personal lives could weaken Nike's reputation. Diff: 2 Topic: Strategy development and implementation Objective: LO2-4 132) Starbucks is one of the best known coffeehouse chains in the world. Each store sells a variety of innovative products to complement the array of coffee choices available. However, 75% of current stores are located in the United States and the expensive nature of the coffee leaves Starbucks vulnerable to changes in consumer spending behavior (such as recessions). Recently Starbucks has begun initiatives to sell its specialty coffee beans for home use, presenting a chance for a large increase in revenue and diversification. However, Starbucks faces fierce competition seeking a piece of its lucrative market share and the threat of consumer behavior changes, given its reputation rides on a singular product. Perform a SWOT analysis for Starbucks. Answer: Strengths- High profit specialty coffee, well known brand image Weakness- Most stores located in U.S., most profits come from coffee (both are lack of diversification) Opportunities- Emerging market in coffee beans for home use, chan ce for global expansion Threats- Intense competition, consumer behavior changes (less spending during a recession on its luxury coffee, change in beverage preferences) Diff: 2 Topic: Strategy development and implementation Objective: LO2-4 133) Perform a SWOT analysis of Boeing's 787 Dreamliner using the information presented within the text. Answer: Strengths- Technological advances (8% increase in fuel efficiency, electronic maintenance monitoring) Weaknesses- Diverse suppliers and assembly locations leave Boeing vulnerable to currency exchange rates and make quality control difficult Opportunities- one of fastest-selling commercial jets ever gives Boeing a chance to increase market share, Boeing can parlay its use of diverse supplier locations into diversifying customer base Threats- competition from Airbus, divestment of the manufacture process risks losing company trade secrets (competitive advantage) Diff: 2 Topic: Strategy development and implementation Objective: LO2-4 134) Perform a SWOT analysis of Hard Rock Cafà ©, using the information presented within Chapters 1 and 2 of the text. Answer: Strengths- Hard Rock's unique coupling of an experience with its menu gives it a competitive advantage, diverse portfolio of stores in 40 countries lowers risk Weaknesses-Hard Rock is known exclusively for its â€Å"experience†, this one-dimensional competitive advantage presents high risk Opportunities- New â€Å"experience† types at restaurants (Blues, Hip-Hop, etc themes), addition of new stores to the existing 120+ stores Threats- Hard Rock's exclusive Rock ‘n' Roll theme leaves it vulnerable to changes in consumer music preferences, competition in the restaurant business is very tough Diff: 2 Topic: Strategy development and implementation Objective: LO2-4 135) Perform a SWOT analysis for Franz Colruyt, using the information presented within the text. Answer: Strengths- High profit margin of 6.5% from its extreme low-cost competitive advantage Weaknesses- Lack of bagging, in-store music, dim lighting, and lack of aesthetic in-store appeal all limit potential customer base. Opportunities- Franz Colruyt only operates 160 stores so there is opportunity for global expansion Threats- High profit margin might encourage competition to copy Franz Colruyt's low-cost competitive advantage, eroding it. Changes in consumer behavior (increased prosperity) might decrease customers interested in only a low-cost alternative. Diff: 2 Topic: Strategy development and implementation Objective: LO2-4

Iraq War Essay

The Iraq War has attracted news coverage from around the world. Various television stations in countries like the US and the UK have news correspondents and news bureaus in the area to cover war-related updates and happenings. However, there were concerns on how media frames and delivers their news. Most of these news reports are accused of being biased, choosing to show only the negative aspects of the war. Two authors have written about this occurrence. One of them points out that most of the stories that reaches the audience is negative, while the other one points out the flaws reporting only the good aspects of war. By critically analyzing these two articles, it is possible to gain useful information as to why the news coverage in Iraq are framed as such. The first article is The Real Iraq Story by Karl Zinsmeister. This talks about the bias towards negative news by the foreign news coverage (Zinsmeister, 2004). It cites certain examples of bad news coverage in Iraq. From the plight of detainees in an Iraqi prison to the power shortages in Iraqi towns and cities, foreign news teams like CNN and BBC clearly chose to report on the negative aspects of certain topics. According to Zinmeister, this type of media coverage clearly affects how people around the world see the Iraq war. By showing mostly the negative aspects of the war, people tend to overlook its purpose. By showing the prison conditions of the detainees, the people are more drawn to the cruelties of war, instead of thinking who these detainees were. On the other hand, Phillip Carter’s The dark side of Iraq’s good news talks about the bias on the good news by recent Iraqi reports (Carter, 2007). These are more recent than the bias on negative news by foreign news correspondents, and these were reported by the Iraqi media. These reports are mostly about the declining Iraqi civilian death toll, increasing number of Iraqis joining US military to secure neighborhoods, and the capture of top insurgent leaders. Despite the majority of the good news, the author argues that focusing on these topics may mislead the people. They could develop a false sense of security, which would just worsen their situation. Going back to Zinsmeister article, we can assume that there is a motive behind the mostly negative news coverage. As the war continues, more and more people are starting to oppose it, doubting the intentions of those who are pursuing it. Political leaders like US President George W. Bush attracted the opposition of the international community because of the US occupation of Iraq in relation to his war on terror. If we relate this to the negative news coverage in Iraq, then it is possible that this is one way of opposing those who pursue this war. News coverage like this clearly draws out the sympathy of the people, especially if they continue to see its negative side. On the other hand, the mostly positive Iraqi news coverage could mean the opposite. By reporting only the good news, the media are trying to build up a positive image for Iraq. By reporting every improving statistic and leaving out the negative ones, people can be lulled to believing that indeed, Iraq has improved greatly. However, with mostly the positive news being covered, it seems that the Iraqi media are overdoing it and would appear that they’re just covering up the real scenario (Kelly, 2007). Moreover, this faulty news coverage had the international community thinking: can the Iraqi people really do it? Will they be able to stand on their own after the war? References: Carter, P. (2007). The dark side of Iraq’s good news. Retrieved July 18, 2009, from http://www. slate. com/id/2177250/ Kelly, M. L. (2007). Good, Bad News in Iraq Intelligence Estimate. Retrieved July 18, 2009, from http://www. npr. org/templates/story/story. php? storyId=13920438 Zinsmeister, K. (2004). The Real Iraq Story. Retrieved July 18, 2009, from http://www. nationalreview. com/comment/zinsmeister200408040849. asp

Word Choice Inflict vs. Afflict - Proofeds Writing Tips

Word Choice Inflict vs. Afflict - Proofeds Writing Tips Word Choice: Inflict vs. Afflict The verbs inflict and afflict are spelled similarly and, indeed, closely related in meaning, since both refer to pain or suffering. However, these terms are also opposites in some senses, so it is vital not to confuse them in your written work. Read on to find out more. Inflict (Cause Suffering) The verb inflict means cause or impose something unpleasant, usually pain or suffering. Inflict is a transitive verb, so always takes a direct object (the thing being inflicted) and usually requires an indirect object (the thing being affected): The rider inflicted whip wounds upon the horse. In the sentence above, the direct object of inflict is whip wounds, while the indirect object is the horse being whipped. You can also use inflict to mean imposing something unwelcome, often an opinion. In this case, we could use it in a sentence like this: At Christmas, Aunt Emily inflicted her extreme views about child discipline upon our entire family. Afflict (Suffer from Something) The verb afflict means distress or affect something adversely. It is often used passively rather than actively, meaning that we usually say that someone has been afflicted by something. For example: Many people in the region were afflicted by a contagious disease. You can use afflict with the active voice by placing the subject of the sentence before the verb: Whooping cough usually afflicts those who have not been immunized. Something that afflicts a victim is an affliction. This means a state of pain or suffering. You can also use afflict and affliction figuratively, or sometimes sarcastically, to exaggerate the suffering involved in something: We had to cancel our holiday because we’re too busy. Please sympathize with us in our affliction. Inflict or Afflict? These words could both be used to describe the same situation, depending on the perspective adopted. However, because of this, it is essential not to confuse them in your work. Remember, to inflict is to cause somebody pain, suffering or injury. To be afflicted is to be the victim of pain, suffering or injury. If you would like more advice, or to have a 500-word sample of your work proofread for free, get in touch with Proofed today!

Othellos Last Speech Essays

Othellos Last Speech Essays Othellos Last Speech Essay Othellos Last Speech Essay In Othellos last speech he is speaking to Lodovico, who will be bringing the news of what happened in Cyprus regarding Othello to Venice. Othello asks Lodovico to stay and hear what he has to say, he believes he deserves to speak because he has helped out the state of Venice in the past. He asks Lodovico not to speak of Othello as he really is. He tells him not to downplay things and make them seem less serious then they are and not to exaggerate. Othello wants the people in Venice to know that he is someone who loved to much, but was not wise about it. He wanted them to know he was not of jealous nature, but once he was manipulated by Iago he became confused and worked himself into a frenzy. Othello was more vulnerable to manipulation since he trusted and loved so easily. He claims he is not a suspicious person, but was wrought, pounded and shaped by beating with a hammer. Othello says â€Å"Of one not easily jealous, but, being wrought,† (399). Iago worked and shaped Othello until he was just how he wanted, just as a blacksmith does with iron or silver articles. Othello realises that all of the good things he has done dont matter anymore, because of the death of Desdemona. Even though he knows this he still wants to be remembered as a briliant soldier who risked his life many times for Venice. He specifically talks about when he was in Aleppo, a Turish city, and found a â€Å"malignant Turk† beating a Venetian. Othello kills the Turk in order to save the Venetian, even though that crime is punishable by death. Othello calls the Turk a â€Å"cirumcised dog† because Turks are muslims, and Muslims are circumcised. Othello was a fine man with a harsh fate. Had not been manipulated by others he would have lived an admirable life. He regrets many things in his life, though I dont believe marrying Desdemona is one of those things. His decisions were greatly effected by his emotions. He was blinded by Iago since he did not listen to his heart, and let his emotions get in the way. Othellos beautiful language and regret in this speech make him seem nobel again. Although since he denies the terrible things he has done, and the role he played in Iagos plan he cannot be fully forgiven.

Human Resource Technology Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Human Resource Technology - Essay Example To become a multinational company the management has to expand its units across the country. As company and its other units are slowly expanding so does the problems are increasing day by day. If HR division is not up to its task then it may be possible that XYZ Inc. may consistent drop in its financial structure that result in heavy losses in the business. The important factors were found to be the hiccups facing by the staff in delivering the goods on time, baggage handling and in customer care. On the manufacturing side XYZ Inc. was unable to meet the supply demand. They have been successful in manufacturing and supplying of small privately owned airplanes. Since the public interest shifted towards the branded name and the feel of first class look the company has to meet the requirements. But XYZ Inc. was slow in its production rate. To meet the market demand on the manufacturing side and to improve customer care service the management introduced some strategies. One of the important factors that should be concentrated is on customer care service. The staff should be trained and should be at best when dealing with customers. The quality of the service should be of high degree. With the help of modern technology the staff could be easily trained.

What were the major external threats to the Ottoman Empire, 1878-1900, Essay

What were the major external threats to the Ottoman Empire, 1878-1900, and how were they contained - Essay Example This discussion therefore seeks to dissect these external challenges and how the empire responded to them. Reid explains that in the period between 1878 and 1900, the Ottoman Empire was still grappling with the negative aftereffects of its previous involvement with war against her external enemies, Poland, Persia, Russia and Austria in the period between 1768 and 1774. Moreover, the terms of the treaty that ended this war did not auger well with the Ottoman Empire’s interests. Particularly, the Kuchuk-Kaynarja Treaty which was intended to end the Russo-Ottoman war of 1768-1774: granted independence to the Trans-Danubian provinces; forced the Ottoman Empire to abandon the Tartar Khanate which was in the Crimea; compelled the empire to pay large war remunerations; and gave Russian ships permission to access the Ottoman water bodies. The 1870s therefore found the empire grappling with these setbacks and carried them onwards1. Additionally, the empire was still reeling from the effects of the Greek War of Independence which had taken place between 1821 and 1832. At the Battle of Navarino, the Anglo-French destroyed the Egyptian and Ottoman fleets, as the Russian troops captured swathes of the empire’s territories upto to Erdine. It is against the backdrop of the development that the Ottoman power attracted greater extents of vulnerability. This vulnerability was in turn underscored by the glaring attractiveness of the empire’s vast holdings to other players in international relations and thereby complicating the status and fate of the Eastern Question. As these problems persisted, Tsar Nicholas I of Prussia referred to the empire as the Sick man of Europe. From this point, the Concert of Europe was mainly concerned about how the Ottoman Empire could be disposed off in a manner that would not gain any power, at the expense of other powers, so as not to disturb the balance of political power i n European politics