Author: chris

American Literature

American Literature comprises of published writings reflecting on the United States and the colonies that preceded in the region. Native American stories are unique and part of the American history, therefore; it should be included in the American literature. Native Americans in the United States are indigenous people that lived within the present jurisdiction, which includes Hawaii and Alaska. Native Americans are characterized by diverse ethnic groups and distinct tribes with different stories. It has been noted that most of the Native Americans survive in the umbrella of the political communities. Native Americans identify with Alaska Natives, Native Hawaiians, Mexican Americans and Indigenous Latin Americans among others.

It is worth noting that the term Native Americans has generated controversies depending on context. Majority of the Native American stories are in the form of oral tradition, hence subject to deviation from the original script. The term Native American refers to the indigenous people who lived in the United States long before European explorers came to the United States for the exploration of the region (Bruchac 64), understanding Native Americans calls for a closer consideration of the diverse individual tribes or groups. Cheyenne, Tuskegee and Arapaho are examples of Native American people, and they have their own stories.

Tuskegee tribes are collectively referred by the term Muskogean. Tuskegee tribe was common in Alabama and Oklahoma. Apalachee were common in Florida and Yuchi and Creeks were the sub-tribes within the larger community. The Spanish and British explorers influenced the original lifestyles of the Apalachee people. Native American literature is included in the American literature, in the same context; the Native American Stories should be part and parcel of the American Literature to make it available for people interested in researching on the core roots of the Native American stories (Uhisawahya par. 1).

American literature is considered complex dating back to centuries of years. Some of the common Native American Stories identify with ‘Legend of the Dogwood Tree’, ‘Spring Defeats Winter’, ‘ Norma Jean Groy Story’, ‘ Koluscap and the Water’, ‘ Jesus before Columbus Time’, ‘ Cherokee Rose’, Firest Fire’, ‘The Bear Legend’, ‘ Thunder and Earthquake’, ‘ Coyote was the moon’, ‘ Raven Made the Ides’ and ‘ Milky Way Game to be’ (Uhisawahya par. 1). The list is endless; including the Native American stories in the American Literature is a way to maintaining the culture and understanding how people believed and behaved in those times.

Including Native American stories in the American literature will have some added benefits in improving communication models. Native American stories will foster communicating quickly, naturally, collaboratively, clearly, truthfully, institutively, persuasively, accurately, interactively, entertainingly, feelingly and movingly as scholars and researchers seek more answers in issues relating to the Native American Stories (Bruchac 21). People cannot appreciate where they are going to unless they understand their origin, which will be facilitated by incorporating Native American Stories in the American Literature. Native American ancestry is characterized by rich Native American stories. Original tribes in the United States have rules that set the membership of its members, in the twenty first century, and it is very difficult to prove the ancestry of individuals.

Native American stories are documented and each and every story has a moral teaching, depending on context. It should be included as part of the American literature after refining the materials. Eliminating Native American Stories from the American Literature makes the whole field incomplete and in-competitive.

 

Works Cited

Bruchac, Joseph. Native American Games and Stories. London: Fulcrum Publishing , 2000. Print.

Uhisawahya, Wado. Native American Stories. 2013. 26 November 2013 <http://www.angelfire.com/ia2/stories3/>.

 

Facility Management

Depending on the availability of venues where events such as weddings, political rallies, cultural events, fund raising, and religious events can be held, a sports facility can be used to host a number of events. However, one of the hugest concerns about setting objectives for events that can be held in a sport facility involves events that are financially or socially beneficial but contradict the original sport facility’s mission. Mainly, this has to do with events that are socially, culturally, or politically motivated, and may raise issues in the community.

Basically, a sports facility’s mission is offering programs, facilities, and services whose aim is addressing leisure, recreational, and physical pursuit within the community. According to Nutt (2000), sports facilities aim at emphasizing on knowledge increment on physical fitness and wellness, participation, and advocating for healthy lifestyle behaviors. In this regard, the community members are guaranteed the best affordable recreational learning opportunities on a daily basis. This is achieved through excellent experiences, services, programs, and facilities.

Through the provision of quality facilities, services, equipment, and programs that promote participatory recreational experiences and teach youths ways through which they can adopt healthy lifestyle behaviors, sports facilities help in nurturing talents. As a result, parents in the community feel safe and assured that when their youths go to the sports facility, they are participating in positive activities that will contribute to their fitness, wellbeing, and health. On the same note, community members are more likely to take action if called to contribute towards renovation or purchase of new facilities. This is founded on the fact that they are aware of the benefits the youths derive from the sports facility.

One of the events that is likely to bring about controversies when held in the sports facilities is political rallies (Teicholz & Techolz, 2001).  Basically, political rallies aim at advancing for specific policy agenda or policies, ensuring that alternative policies are not adopted, and supporting some chosen individuals to power positions within a wider political world or organization. A few people play key roles, lead the activities, have the prominent voice, and act like magnets in attracting people. It is, therefore, evident that political rallies’ aims are entirely against the mission of sports facilities.

If a political rally is held in a sports facility, this implies that youths and all other people who use the facility for different physical fitness purposes will miss out a day or several days. This will give the political organizers a chance to put posters and plan for the political rally. Through this, the sports facility will be deviating from its original purpose (Teicholz & Techolz, 2001). The community members and all those who contributed towards the construction and betterment of the sports facility may feel provoked if they have no interest in the political rally. These feelings may even result to physical fights where the community members join hands to ruin or chase the politicians away.

Facility ownership

            The owners of the facility are likely to argue that the political rally is a principal diversion from the sports facility’s mission. Rather than promoting leadership development which is one of the principal aims of the sports facility, the political rally denies youths the opportunity to nurture this (Langston & Too, 2009).  On the contrary, the political rally organizers may use the youths to put up posters and run some other political activities. The facility ownership may also argue that by allowing a political rally to be held in the facility, other event holders including fundraisers, cultural events organizers, and religious event holders may request for an opportunity to hold their events in the facility. If denied the chance, this can create enmity and fights. So as to avoid this, the facility ownership would recommend that the sports facility be used for its original purpose.

Community

            The community would mainly ask questions related to the safety of their youths, them being misused, and the general security of the community (Langston & Too, 2009). The main community member’s worry is that the youths may end up being used inappropriately as the politicians try to fulfill their mission. In this regards, youths may be given money so as to push for improper agendas such as destroying the vehicles of opponents or ruining the opponent’s rallies. This is besides campaigning for the politicians. This implies that the youths would generally deviate from their daily activities and focus more on political rallies where they get some money. Some politicians even go the extent of buying youths liquor so as to win them over. After getting the money, some youths may engage in activities such as drug abuse (Chotipanich, 2004).  The community members may also raise issues to do with the safety of their community. Political rallies are normally associated with chaos and the community may suffer as well.

Answers and justifying the event

            In answer to the community members’ and facility ownerships’ concern, I would assert that the sports facility should also aim at bringing people together. Since the sports facility is a community resource, it can be used to reach out to people while promoting dignity and civility. One of the ways through which relationships can be developed and maintained in the community is through allowing accountable politicians to hold rallies. Politicians can also contribute towards community growth by funding the youths’ activities and purchasing new facilities. Moreover, politicians can help in organizing and funding competitions with neighboring communities.

 

References

Chotipanich, S. (2004). Positioning facility management. Facilities, 22(13/14), 364-372.

Langston, C. A., & Too, L. (2009). Event-based facilities management. New York, NY: McGraw-Hill.

Nutt, B. (2000). Four competing futures for facility management. Facilities, 18(3/4), 124-132.

Teicholz, E., & Techolz, E. (2001). Facility design and management handbook. New York, NY: McGraw-Hill.

 

 

 

Project Management Life Cycle

Introduction

Project management refers to the application of ideas, knowledge, techniques and skills by various organizations towards the execution of a project development and implementation. According to Orozco (2003), an organization involved in project development and implementation must ensure that proper strategies are developed towards the project in order for accurate and timely project that reflect objectives of the organization to be developed. Some of the key factors that need to be considered include the purpose of the project, availability of an effective management team to develop and implement the project, funds for the development of the project and time allocation for the project among others. Additionally, an organization should also consider various project development life cycles. As found by Barron and Barron (2011), project development life cycle refers to the breakdown of the project by the project team into smaller parts that collectively defines the process of project development.

Project Development Life Cycle

            Due to rapid technological advancement, various organizations are demanded to develop and implement different projects towards the objectives of the organization. In order for these projects to be developed and implemented accordingly, the projects need to be divided into phases. According to Orozco (2003), there are four main stages of project development life cycle. These include initial phase, planning phase, execution phase and closure phase. Therefore, during project development and implementation, all the above phases need to be considered and ensured that proper planning is put in place for effective project development to be realized. In the process of project development within an Information Technology organization, the above project development cycle need to be understood by the organization as provided below:

Initiation Phase

            This is the first phase of project development as revealed by Carr (2009). At this stage, an organization involved in the project development needs to identify various objectives of the proposed project. It is important for the organization under project development to understand that the identified objectives of the projects should be based on the current problems that the project is expected to address. Therefore, an organization will be required to form a committee to that will be responsible for the conducting of the feasibility study that will determine if the proposed project will eventually solve various problems that are faced by the organization. The Higher Ed CIO (2012) also warned that the committee mandate to conduct the feasibility study need to ensure they conduct a comprehensive analysis before their approval because it is through the information derived by the feasibility team that would ensure an effective plan for the proposed project development. After ensuring that all the areas of concern are covered with all the problems and proposed solutions are put on records, the team should pass their findings and recommendations to the project management team for approval (University of Saskatchewan, 2010). Failure to provide adequate and accurate information by the feasibility team would lead to project development failure.

Planning Phase

            Project planning stage is the second stage of project development life cycle after project initiation phase. It is within this stage of project development where projects solutions based on the challenges that the project needs to address is developed in details. At this stage of development, project management team responsible for the planning of the project is required to come up with various strategies that defines steps in which objectives of the project development would be achieved (Barron & Barron, 2011). Another important requirement of the project development team at this stage is the planning of the project development process. Based on the available information from the feasibility team, the project planning team is required to study the information in order to determine resources that are required by the project from its start to completion and the process of acquiring them. Therefore, the team will also look at the funds allocation for the resources.

Another planning required by the project team is the time allocation for the project to last. This is timeline of the project from its design to the operational stage. For instance, the team is required to allocate time to each development stage and ensures that all requirement and development of the project is done within the stipulated time. Provision of timeline is an important factor in project development because it helps project management team to countercheck the progress of the development (Carr, 2009). It is during this stage where project planning team is mandated to consider labor required towards the development of the project. These include number of managers, supervisors and workers needed for the project development based on the number of activities involves in the project development. In relation to labor are the equipment that are required towards the development of the proposed project. Consequently, project-planning team should also consider all the materials needed for the project to be completed.

Once the project planning team has identified and come up with proper planning and arrangement of entire project development requirement, Orozco (2003) revealed that respective project planning plan need to consider various challenges that may be faced during project development. The main of considering risks and challenges factors is for the project team to have better plans and strategies that would be used in the occurrence of the challenges. After the identification of the challenges and possible risks factors, project team would be required to allocate extra funds for the risks and challenges. Lastly, the project plan team is required to document their final findings and plan for the project development, a document which must be followed to the latter during project development (Barron & Barron, 2011).

Execution Phase

            Execution stage is the third phase of project development that must be considered during project development. This is the stage where the project plan from the plan phase is put into execution as found by Carr (2009). During project execution, it is important for the project management team to ensure that proper and effective communication is achieved among the workers of the project. It is through effective communication and relations that will help project management team to create teamwork within the organization. Teamwork will help project management team to perform various activities of the project effective and ensure project development is completed within the time allocation. Thus, effective downward, upwards and horizontal communication must be enforced during project development process. Moreover, Barron and Barron (2011) found that it is important for the organization, through the project management team to ensure that they provide continuous communications to the organizational shareholders and other bodies of the organization on the process of the project development (Project Management Success Net., 2010).

Closure Phase

            This is the last stage of project development before the project is put into its operation. This phase involves both the testing and implementation process of the project. Although it is mandated for the involvement of project users in project development process, University of Saskatchewan (2010) echoed that the closure stage is the best phase of project development where project users need to be involved through the entire process. Being part of the testing and implementation process, project users will be able to familiarize themselves with the project and its requirement in terms of its operation. It is also important for the implementation process to be a gradual process in order to give users the opportunity to have better understanding on the operation of the project. Additionally, gradual implementation process will ensure that the current operations and activities of the organization are not interfered with.

Recommendations and Conclusion

            Although there may be different approaches of project development life cycle that different organizations may use during project development, the four stages discussed above are considered as the best approach. Therefore, an organization with a project that needs to be developed must ensure the above cycle is followed to the latter. Apart from having better plan for the project, some of the expected challenges and failure of the project should also be considered in order in order to come up with proper and better strategies that would help face the challenges at their occurrence (Carr, 2009). Moreover, in the process of implementing any project plan, organizations must ensure that the process of implementation is gradual in order to give project users the opportunity to learn the operations of the project. Additionally, in project development, organizations need to have skilled and experienced project management team for effective project development to be realized.

References:

Barron, M & Barron, A. (2011). The project life cycle agile development. The Project Management Hut. Retrieved from
http://www.pmhut.com/the-project-life-cycle-3.

Carr, J. (2009). The project life cycle. The Project Management Hut. Retrieved from
http://www.pmhut.com/the-project-life-cycle-2.

Higher ED CIO (2012, July 26). IT organization structure and operating models. Retrieved November 29, 2013, from
http://blog.thehigheredcio.com/2012/07/26/it-organization-structure/

Project Management Success Net.(2010). PMBOK explained session 2 project life cycle and organization. [Video presentation]. Retrieved
from http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_q31kS3YQbQ

University of Saskatchewan, (2010, August 23). Project management – project life cycle. Information Technology Services. Retrieved November 29, 2013, from
http://www.usask.ca/its/services/itproject_services/managing_projects/life_cycle.php

 

 

Summary of ITM 423 SLP 2

Following high demand for quality teamwork based on the technological advancement, learners are required to consider various factors when selecting software that would help them accomplish their project. One of the most recommended software those learners who do their project through group work should use is the iTeamwork program software. According to Phelps et al (2007), these are programs that help grouped learners and researchers to accomplish their projects in time. The program has numerous merits that make it the best program to many grouped learners’ with the desire to produce quality, accurate and timely projects. One of the factors that make this program to be the best among most students is that it is easy to use and understand. For instance, during project development, iTeamwork software allows users to have a general look of the program. Hence, users have the ability to study their project in order to know the status development of the project under development (Gonzalez-Fernandez & Friedman, 2011).

Another feature of the ITeamwork software that makes it the best program towards project development and implementation is the inbuilt email system that the program is developed with. It is through the use of the emails that project team use in updating themselves on the progress of the project development as revealed by Phelps et al (2007). Moreover, the iTeamwork software is easy to acquire because it is free of charge. However, for those students that with the desire to install iTeamwork program in their remote servers need to buy the software package at a fordable price. Gonzalez-Fernandez and Friedman (2011) echoed that the program is easy to learn and install because it is easily programmed for users. Additionally, in selecting the best program software to use in developing and implanting of a project, learners prefer the use of iTeamwork program because it provides users with adequate information such as files and relevant information that helps them to complete their projects in time (Phelps et al, 2007). Hence, based on the above features and capabilities, iTeamwork remains the most appropriate project development software for most learners and researchers.

Although there are various enterprises that provide eLearing solutions today, Desire2Learn is still considered the best for most learners. Services provided by Desire2Learn are all round as they cover different stages of learning (Ballentine, 2012). Therefore, these services suit learners at different stages, from K-12, higher education to corporate and government use. Through the use of Desire2Learn services, users are able to share ideas and information with different persons concerning their studies in order to improve on their projects. According to Nelson and Straggers (2013), Desire2Learn services are important for every one because once learned, users will continue using them even at their working premises. Therefore, they remain part of human life as far as sharing of ideas and knowledge is concern.

There also exist various advantages of using Desire2Learn services to both their workers and clients. For instance, Desire2Learn provides full support to their clients who use their services until they achieve their desire in life. Desire2Learn enterprise has also come up with easy programs that users find them easy to use and understanding during learning (Ballentine, 2012). Not only that services offered by Desire2Learn are available during project development but also in project implementation and operation. Therefore, the use of Desire2Learn services is helpful in guiding users throughout their project development. Moreover, Desire2Learn also provide better environment for their workers, which makes them to work effectively towards the objectives of the organization (Nelson and Straggers, 2013).

Through the use of iTeamwork program, the program is important because it provide users with the ability to provide accurate and quality projects. Therefore, it helps in time saving of the learners. The program is also important towards learning because it provides users with the ability to countercheck the progress of the project being developed (Phelps et al, 2007). This is important because it provides users with the ability to correct any mistake that may be realized during project development. Additionally, through the use of iTeamwork software, users are able to conduct their projects despite their geographical locations.

Therefore, through the use of the iTeamwork, learners have the opportunity to improve on the behaviors and careers. For instance, with the use of services provided by Desire2Learn, students are in better position of producing better quality work towards their academic projects as found by Gonzalez-Fernandez and Friedman (2011). Moreover, it is through the use of iTeamwork software that helps learners to improve on their work even after school at their working premises. Through the use of the iTeamwork, learners will be able to improve on their skills and understanding on their areas of specialization because the program allows sharing of information and ideas among learners and workers. Therefore, the use of iTeamwork within learning institutions and other organization working premises is important and should be encouraged (Gonzalez-Fernandez & Friedman, 2011). Additionally, due to the ability of the iTeamwork to produce accurate and timely projects, they are important in developing program that require instance decision making within learning institutions and organizations.

References:

Ballentine, B. (2012). Desire2Learn for Higher Education Cookbook. Birmingham: Packt Publishing Ltd.

Gonzalez-Fernandez, M & Friedman, J.D. (2011). Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Pocket Companion. New York City: Demos Medical Publishing.

Nelson, R & Straggers, N. (2013). Health Informatics: An Interprofessional Approach.  Amsterdam: Elsevier Heath Science.

Phelps, R., Fisher, K & Ellis, A. (2007). Organizing and Managing Your Research: A Practical Guide for Postgraduates. Thousand Oaks: SAGE.

 

 

FIN 301 Case 2

 

 

Part I:

Question A.

Worth of the bank in one year: $15,000

Interest rate paid by the bank 7%

Calculation of the present value at the rate of 7%and 4% will be as follows;

PV at the rate of 7% will be;
$15,000/1.07=$ 14018.69
PV at the rate of  4%  is calculated as follows;
$15,000/1.07=$ 14423.08
Question B.

The back is supposed to have two accounts, namely Account A and Account B.

Account A is expected to be worth $6, 500 in one years time, while Account B is expected to be worth $12, 000 in 2 years time. The accounts are expected to earn an interest of 6% per annum. Therefore, the present values of the two accounts can be presented as follows;

Account A
$6,500.00 /1.06=$6,132.08

The present value is =$6,132.08

On the other hand, the present value of Account B is presented as follows;
$12,600.00 /1.062=$11,886.79

The present value is =$11,886.79
Question C.: Inheritance of a goldmine with a three years worth of gold deposit

Projected earnings from the gold mine are provided as follows

Year 1: $49,000,000
Year 2: $61,000,000
Year 3: $85,000,000

1. a) The present value of the stream of income at 7% discount rate
   $49,000,000/(1.07)+ $61,000,000/(1.07)2+$85,000,000/(1.07)3=$168,459,474.48
   $45,794,392.52 + $53,279,762.42 + $69,385,319.54
   b) The present value of the stream of income at 5% and 3% discount rate is calculated as follows.

At %5 discount rate,
$49,000,000/(1.05)+$61,000,000/(1.05)2+$85,000,000/(1.05)3=$175,421,660.73
$46,666,666.67 + $55,328,798.19 + $73,426,195.88
At %3 discount rate
$49,000,000/(1.03)+$61,000,000/(1.03)2+$85,000,000/(1.03)3=$182,858,207.04
$47,572,815.53 + $57,498,350.46 + $77,787,041.05
Comparison of the Results

It is true that the risk high when the discount rate is high and vice versa (Smart and Graham, 2011). The present value, when the discount rate is high (7%) is low at $168,459,474.48. When the discount rate is lowered to 5%, the PV goes up to =$175,421,660.73 When the discount rate is low (3%), the PV of the goldmine is high at $182,858,207.04. Therefore, the PV of the goldmine is worth more today at a low rate of discount compared to the highest discount rate while marinating the same stream of income for the next three years (Presanna, 2009).

Part II

The high risk to investors can be calculated in the following way.

• Ice Dreams Shaved Ice Beverage Business; low risk venture that requires a low discount rate
• RJ Wagner and Assoc. Realty Real Estate Brokerage Business is a high risk initiative that enquires a high discount rate
• Interstate Travel Centre; is a medium risk venture and requires a medium discount rate

Ice Dreams Shaved Ice Beverage Business

The Ice Dreams Shaved Ice Beverage Business has a strong marketing plan. However, the venture provides a low discount rate for the low risk business. The chance of succeeding in the business is extremely high. This is based on the low cost of doing business as can be seen form the low cost of inventories, salary of the employee and advertising as well. The low cost of the product means it can be sold at a reasonable price, while keeping the margin somehow higher (Smart and Graham, 2011). For instance, the cost of Flavoured shave ice is 19 cents. The price is $1. The economy does not usually affect sales of comfort foods such as snack. Therefore, the product can remain relatively stable for some years. Since the shave ices do not cost much, they can provide much relief during times of deep economic challenges (Rose, 2009). Although this venture runs at low costs, it will also have low profits as opposed to the other businesses considered in this discussion.

The net profit for the company is as flows’
Year 1=$14,659,

Year 2=$28,595

Year 3=$43,315

The company has only one employee. This means profits will go to the owner of the business. At the promotional initiatives will be low at $500. In addition, with the focus on community engagements, the company is expected to have loyal customers that will continually flock its premises for more products.
RJ Wagner and Assoc. Realty Real Estate Brokerage Business

This business is much dependent on the performance of the economy. The housing sector has been doing badly in the last 5 years. Foreclosures are all over. Unemployment, which was fuelled by global financial crisis, has made things worse and not many people are seeking homes. In the marketing plan, a salary of about $80,000 for each house agent seems optimistic. The average wage earnings in 2008 were about $ 40,000. With fewer and fewer people seeking homes, brokerage business looks bleak.

A major strength for this business is the incentive provided to customers. There are start up costs that require les borrowing (Smart and Graham, 2011). In addition, the owner had a wealth of experience in the sector and was willing to pay good rates to any of the hired agents. In addition, the owner provided training to the agents (Heisinger, 2009). However, this plan seems costly and hence risky because of its dependence on the market, agents, and their level of expertise. There is also the issue of the willingness of buyers and sellers in the sector. The proprietor is also optimistic of getting aggressive sales and profits in the first three years. If the plan goes on well, investors can be guaranteed of a high discount rate.
Interstate Travel Centre Truck Stop Business

The Interstate Travel Centre Truck Stop Business has a higher chance of doing well in the industry. Therefore, the business can be assumed to have a moderate risk. This provides investors with a moderate rate of discount (Smart and Graham, 2011). This model of business provides more service and convenience for shoppers because various products can be found ‘under one roof.’ Therefore, customers can get more than they are looking for within the premises. People desire to get more for less. Convenience, saving on time, and avoiding more fuel consumption are critical in today’s fast-phased world. Gas stations make profits from the sales of products found within the stores, which generate more profits than gas. Fuel generates about 30% of service stations’ profits (Heisinger, 2009). The profit is distributed among several players including the county government, city, and oil companies.

Interstate Travel Centre Truck Stop Business has bigger operations than the other two businesses. The company has many employees compared to the other companies. In addition, the business operations are complex in comparison. The management have a greater dependence on the employees because of the increased business operations (Presanna, 2011). Employees are therefore expected to be successful in their areas of operations, including gas sales. The employees are expected to create convenience of customers as they go about buying products. Although the sales volumes surpass the other companies, the profits of the business are relatively lower than the other ventures.

References

Heisinger, K. (2009).Essentials of Managerial Accounting. London: engage Learning.

Presanna, C (2009).Projects 7/E. New Delhi: Tata McGraw-Hill Education

Presanna, C (2011). Financial Management. New Delhi: Tata McGraw-Hill Education

Smart, B. S. and Graham, R. J. (2011). Introduction to Corporate Finance: what companies do. London:Cengage Learning.

 

 Company Analysis (Coca Cola vs. Pepsi)

Introduction

Coca Cola and PepsiCo Companies are responsible in the production of soft drinks, and they are the most leading competitors in this industry. The background information of the two companies will be given in this per, considering whom their customers and suppliers are. The companies’ stock prices will be given, as well as the financial analysis to determine which company is best suit for the investors to invest in.

History of Coca Cola Company

Coca Cola Company has its headquarters in Atlanta, Georgia, and it was invented by John Pemberton. The company serves over 200 countries, and it has been in existence for a period of more than 100 years. The company started with the sale of Coca Cola as syrup that was being mixed with water to minimize headache. Bottling of the soda from the Coca Cola Company was found to be a great idea which had an impact on the market o0f the products, since the company wanted to sell the products in other countries outside United States.

The company’s suppliers are those who supply materials including the product ingredients, machinery and packaging to the company. The suppliers have to comply with the laws and regulations set in carrying out businesses, and the company has Supplier Guiding Principles which govern their operations. The customers include international retailers, restaurants and even small businesses. The company works to attain additional value to the customers, who work to improve sales and bring in profit to both their businesses and the company as well. The company’s aim is to diversify the suppliers, with a consideration of maximizing procurement opportunities, which have the minority and the women owned businesses being the company’s suppliers, contractors and sub contractors. This enhances the company’s aim of achieving competitive advantage over the other companies working in the same industry.

History of Pepsi Cola

Pepsi Cola was invented by Caleb Bradham in 1898, and it was launched in 1902. The company’s achievement was related to the increased rate by which the company franchised, leading to the establishment of Pepsi Cola in 24 States. The company progressed until the World War I when the cist of doing business increased. This led to the company becoming bankrupt, with only two plants remaining at that particular time.

The company’s suppliers are partners at the local and national organizations, which advocate for women owned businesses as well as the company’s suppliers. The company supports the suppliers by offering scholarships for business owners, and advocate for the development of diversity programs which facilitate opportunities for contracts in the company. The company’s growth has also been facilitated by SHI which acquired the company and made it its most special customers. SHI has led to the increased growth of the company.

Stock price

This is the price of a single share of the company’s stock. An individual who purchases stock from a company becomes the shareholder of that particular company. The stock price is calculated by using the market capitalization and dividing it with the number of outstanding shares.

The table below shows the stock prices for the year 2010, 2011 and 2012 for the Coca Cola Company.

Year	Stock Price ($)
Day of initial public offering (January 2nd 1962 )	101.00
January 1st 2010	57.00
January 1st 2011	65.77
January 1st 2012	69.97

It is important to consider the fact that the stock prices do not indicate the future price performance of a company. During the company’s initial public offering, the stock price was $101.00. In the beginning of January 2010, the stock price was $57.00, in January 2011, the stock price was $65.77, and in January 2012 the stock price was $ 69.97. This trend on the price of stock at Coca Cola Company shows that there has been a record increase of the prices each year. Thus, conclusions can be made concerning the future prices, though there may be changes experienced in stock prices. In the following years, the stock price is likely to increase following the trend, showing that the company is well sustained, and its operations are improving for the purposes of achieving competitive advantage over other countries. Stock prices have been appreciating in the previous years, showing the possibility of greater appreciation of the stock prices in future.

The following table shows the stock prices for 2010, 2011 and 2012 for the Pepsi Company

Year	Stock price ($)
Day of initial public offering (January 3rd 1977)	80.00
January 1st 2010	60.80
January 1st 2011	65.33
January 1st 2012	66.35

 

Factors affecting the Stock price of PepsiCo and Coca Cola Companies

According to Lijuan and Ye (2012), the factors affecting stock price of a company are influenced by the economic conditions of the country with which the businesses are doing business in, and the factors which make the business successful. Both Coca Cola Company and PepsiCo have been experiencing low sales in their products, due to the adverse weather conditions experienced, as well as due to the rise need of ensuring that the customers are kept healthier. This has led to a decline in the stock price, and thus the companies have found it important to consider diversifying their markets in order to reach to international markets.

PepsiCo has become involved in the sponsoring of the Indian Premier League (IPL), which supports the sporting events. The agreement between the Indian Premier League and PepsiCo will last for a period of five years, beginning in April 2013. The company has paid twice amount of money that the previous sponsors paid to the IPL. Reasons behind the signing of the agreement is that PepsiCo has been having a big market in the Indian snacks, making it possible for the company to venture and get into the market in the developing world. Pepsi has been able to invest a lot in the country by providing Indian snacks, and also beverages. Therefore, the company finds it important to find ways in which it can keep its competitors at bay, and they have found it important to sign the agreement with IPL for the benefit of the company in the stock prices as well. If PepsiCo uses the opportunity well, it means that it will be visible enough to ensure that it promotes its products, thus creating a possibility of increasing its shares. Though Coca Cola has been in the Indian market for a certain period of time, it is clear that the country has been experiencing more of PepsiCo’s products, resulting to a change in the various ways in which Coca cola can be able to deal with the market.

Financial Analysis of Coca Cola Company

The financial analysis can be measured in terms of the financial ratios, including the price to earning ratio, price to the operating profit, price to sales and price to book value. According to Kline (2007), financial analysis are effective if they are conducted within the same time frame, and if the companies are operating on the same economic conditions. The following table shows the financial position of the Coca Cola Company from the year 2010 to 2012.

Ratio	31st Dec 2010	31st Dec 2011	31st Dec 2012
Price to Earning	12.42	18.27	19.00
Price to Operating Profit	17.36	15.42	15.90
Price to Sales	4.18	3.36	3.57
Price to Book Value	4.73	4.95	5.23

The price to earning ratio gives an analysis on how much the investors pay for the common stock per the current company earning. Coca Cola ratio of pay for the stock increased from 2010 to 2011 and from 2011 to 2012, though the increase to 2011 was with a higher percentage as compared to the increase in 2012. The price to Earning Ratio is calculated using the net income. Analysts use the Price to Operating Ratio instead of using price to earning ratio. The company’s price to operating ratio shows a decline from the year 2010 to 20100, but there is a slight increase in the year 2011.

The price to sales ratio describes the rationale of the company’s sales. In a company’s income statement, the price to sales are mostly manipulated or distorted than the other fundamentals in the statement account. In most cases, Coca Cola experiences its sales being more stable as compared to the company’s earnings. It is important to note that sales are never negative because the company has always been on operation and the sales have been increasing. Coca Cola has its price to sales ratio declining from the year 2010 to 2011, but records a slight increase from 2011 to 2012. The price to book value of a company is said to be element which indicates the market’s situation, thus enhancing the relationship between the rate of return of the company and the actual rate of return. Coca Cola’s price to book value ratio records an increase from the year 2010 through to 2012.

Coca Cola’s revenue and net income has been stable over the last five years. This shows that the company’s record is positive despite the world economic changes that have been experienced. The company was able to acquire the CCE bottling comp0any in 2011, a situation which has made it possible to record an increase in net income and revenue for the company. For instance, the total revenue in 2010 was $35,119, and it increased in 2011 to $46,545, and later on increased to 2012 to $48,017.

Financial Analysis for PepsiCo

The following table shows the financial position of the Coca Cola Company from the year 2010 to 2012.

Ratio	31st Dec 2010	31st Dec 2011	31st Dec 2012
Price to Earning	15.92	15.44	18.82
Price to Operating Profit	12.07	10.32	12.76
Price to Sales	1.74	1.50	1.78
Price to Book Value	4.75	4.83	5.22

 

The price to earning ratio for PepsiCo has been declining from 2010 to 2011, but an increase is recorded from 20141 to 2012, and the ratio in 2012 is seen to exceed that in 2010. The price to operating profit ratio also declined from 2010 to 2011, but later on increased to a slightly higher ratio in 2012 than that of 2010. The Price to Sales ratio shows the same trend, where there is a slight decline from 2010 to 2011, and later on a slight increase from 2011 to 2012. The price to book value records a different trend, where the ratios have been increasing constantly from 2010 to 2011, and later to 2012.

The company’s revenue in the year 2010 was $57,838, and there was an increase in 2011 to $66,504. However, PepsiCo recorded a slight decrease in revenue from 2011 to 2012, and the revenue was $65,492. This trend shows that the revenue which the country is flat. There is no big difference between the companies’ financials ranging from the year 2010 to 2012.

Reliability of Data in making investment Decision

Making investment decisions requires the effective analysis of the company’s financials. This means that auditors who are responsible in carrying out the analysis have to ensure that fraud is avoided, in order to ensure that clear decisions are made regarding the company’s investment positions. Sometimes, fraud may lead to a company recording financial losses, and in case investors make decisions on information which is false, they are likely to make mistakes and suffer losses which they had not anticipated (Isa, 2011). Thus reliability and relevance of the financial information for both companies depend on the provision of information depending on the particular time when the financials were recorded, the reasons as to why the financial analysis was carried out in the company, and whether the objective was completed and made accurate depending on all the operations of the company business.

Thus, the financial position of the companies have analyzed through the financial ratios, and determination of the company’s revenues. Reliability depends on the circumstances and situations on whether the objectives have been met. Thus, reliable financial data in a company can be achieved only if the control mechanisms are put in place to ensure that the number of fraud cases and distortion of data is avoided. This will enable the investors make better decisions which according to Isa (2011) will bring about positive impact and generation of profits for the company.

Recommendation

The Coca cola Company has been recording an increase in revenue, compared to PepsiCo whose revenues have been flat for the last few years. Depending on the time frame used in carrying out this research, which is from 2010 to 2012, Coca Cola company has been having greater chances of increasing the company sales as they have been rising with a higher number as compared to the company sales of PepsiCo. For instance, the stock sales from 2010 to 2011 for Coca Cola increased by $8.77, compared to the increase in stock sales in PepsiCo which increased with $4.53. This means that Coca Cola is a better investment since the investors will receive decreased interest rates, which will make the investment a success, as compared to PepsiCo whose stock prices are increasing at a slower rate. According to Haramis (2007), stock prices increased as a result of increased profit for the company, and this means that Coca Cola has been experiencing more profits than PepsiCo.

Conclusion

From the analysis of the two companies Coca Cola and PepsiCo, the investors should consider investing in a company whose data from financial analysis is conducive for the purpose of bringing in a positive impact on the company and the investors’ assets. The trend of the stock prices has also been found to be a better tool in making the final decision, as it allows for the analysis of the future prices depending on the current trend.

Reference:

Haramis, I. E. (2007). The Stock Market guide to profitable Investment. USA: The Stock Market Guide.

Isa, T. (2011). Impacts and Losses caused by the Fraudulent and Manipulated Financial Information on Economic Decisions. Review of International Comparative Management. 12 (5).

Kline, B. (2007). How to read and Understand Financial Statements when you don’t know what you are looking at. USA: Atlantic Publishing Company.

Lijuan, W., & Ye, X. (2012). Empirical Analysis of Macroeconomic Factors Affecting the Stick Price. Orient Academic Forum.

 

 

Equity Futures: Ford Motor Company

 

From the five year historical share prices of the company, below s the reliable data.

Date	Adjusted Prices
1-Nov-13	17.08
1-Oct-13	17.11
3-Sep-13	16.77
1-Aug-13	16.1
1-Jul-13	16.78
3-Jun-13	15.29
1-May-13	15.5
1-Apr-13	13.45
1-Mar-13	12.9
1-Feb-13	12.37
2-Jan-13	12.71
3-Dec-12	12.61
1-Nov-12	11.15
1-Oct-12	10.87
4-Sep-12	9.56
1-Aug-12	9.05
2-Jul-12	8.91
1-Jun-12	9.25
1-May-12	10.18
2-Apr-12	10.88
1-Mar-12	11.98
1-Feb-12	11.88
3-Jan-12	11.92
1-Dec-11	10.29
1-Nov-11	10.14
3-Oct-11	11.17
1-Sep-11	9.25
1-Aug-11	10.63
1-Jul-11	11.68
1-Jun-11	13.19
2-May-11	14.27
1-Apr-11	14.79
1-Mar-11	14.26
1-Feb-11	14.39
3-Jan-11	15.25
1-Dec-10	16.06
1-Nov-10	15.24
1-Oct-10	13.51
1-Sep-10	11.7
2-Aug-10	10.8
1-Jul-10	12.21
1-Jun-10	9.64
3-May-10	11.22
1-Apr-10	12.45
1-Mar-10	12.02
1-Feb-10	11.23
4-Jan-10	10.37
1-Dec-09	9.56
2-Nov-09	8.5
1-Oct-09	6.69
1-Sep-09	6.89
3-Aug-09	7.27
1-Jul-09	7.65
1-Jun-09	5.8
1-May-09	5.5
1-Apr-09	5.72
2-Mar-09	2.51
2-Feb-09	1.91
2-Jan-09	1.79
1-Dec-08	2.19
28-Nov-08	2.57

 

If I purchase 100 futures shares now, I think the price would be determined by their price in five years will be determined by the related average growth. This average growth will be derived from the average growth in five years as observed from the five year historical prices.

From the price figures above the average price level in the five years stands at 11.76. This reflects a 9.9 change in the price of the company’s shares for the past five years; which is 385.14% increase. This is derived by (11.76-2.57)/2.57/ (100). Looking at the average change from the date of purchase; which is the current price, therefore, assuming my100 share purchase would grow at the same rate, the price of my futures would be;

Number of shares*(price on the purchase date*percentage growth)

=100*(17.08*385.14%) =6578.19

I expect the price of the shares in one year to be much higher. This is because 385.14% change in the prices of a company is not a small growth rate. In one year the price of the shares will have a growth of more than triple. This shows that investing in the shares of the Ford Motor company would be a good strategic idea. According to Grundy, Johnson & Scholes (1998), strategy is always important in investment. The fact that the company’s rate of return has been more than 50% is a good point to rely on with regard to the expected performance of the company. The company’s expected rate of return stands at 62.17%. Thos I one of the highest rates of return in the motor vehicle industry.

From the data shown above, the prices of the company’s shares have been very stable. It has been moving in a reasonable rate. This means that the share prices are not affected by unreasonable movements in the company’s economic as well as other factors in the market. This means that an investment on the shares of this company is good enough to guarantee good returns and stability of an investment.  This would be backed up by the fact that Ford has been very stable in the car market. This can be attributed to the strong company’s work ethic has been able to give the company a strong position even in times of economic and market turbulence(Besley & Brigham, 2011).. The company’s policy on making the environment green and getting diverse in its activities has been very instrumental in the good performance. According to Wetherly and Otter (2008), a company’s relation with the environment is very important to consider.

From the growth rate I am seeing on the futures of this company, it is important to concentrate on them since my bank, the New York Mellon corporation bank is mot able to give that amount on savings or any other investment property.

 

 

References

Besley, S., & Brigham, E. F. (2011). Principles of finance. Mason, Ohio: South-Western.

Ford Motor Company, 2013. Financial Reports & SEC Filings. Retrieved from http://corporate.ford.com/our-company/investors/investor-quarterly-results

Grundy, T & Johnson, G & Scholes, K. (1998). Exploring strategic financial management.         London,     Prentice Hall.

Wetherly, P. & Otter, D. (2008), The business environment. Oxford: Oxford University Press.

 

Blood Diamond Policy

Diamonds in Botswana are acquired through cheap labor, because this is one the poorest countries in Africa. Unlike most companies in Africa that have exploited mineral resources, DeBeers Company has maintained social responsibility with the country. Because of this, the economy of Botswana has risen to one of the most prestigious economies in the region.

Threats to liberty are no longer eminent following the downfall of communism in Botswana. This eliminated the dangerous and direct challenge. Communism credited the abolition of private ownership because it perceived this form of ownership as the means of committing social ills. Tyrannies are being eliminated or isolated, although they still manage to cling to power. They are slowly yielding to the spirit of the times. The current year’s slogan is privatisation and democracy.  These changes may not signify that the future is secure. There are a number of threats to freedom, not only emanating from tyranny but also from equality. Equality, which is related to security, is the identity of reward. Liberty is egalitarian, since living creatures differ in intelligence, strength, courage, ambition, and perseverance (Turetken & Demirors, 2007 p. 56). All these contribute to the success.

Equality and the law of opportunity are not only essential to liberty but also compatible to it. This is contrary to the equality of reward that is only attainable by coercion and is why all despots insist on their subjects’ equality and all utopian schemes presuppose despotic authority. Over a century ago, Walter Bagehot observed that there was no suitable approach that could be used to ensure all men are free and equal. The enforcement of equality, ironically, destroys not only equality, but also liberty, which can clearly be demonstrated by the experience of communism. Individuals charged with the responsibility of implementing social equity claim they are privileged and elevate themselves high above the common herd.  It also leads, inasmuch, to pervasive corruption, as goods and services are monopolised by the elites. And yet, the Golden Age ideals have never ceased to appeal to humanity, which is one of our seemingly indestructible and persistent myths. In a contest between liberty and equality, the later holds the stronger hand, since the loss of liberty is only felt after its occurrence. On the contrary, the pains of inequality irritate every moment of life (Kolb, 2008 p. 67).

The happenings in modern times indicate that proponents of democracy are much more willing to sacrifice their freedom for the sake of economic security and social equality, apparently unaware of the consequences. Despite the commendable reform that the world has experienced recently, the entire concept stands with the liberty of individualism, since it allows various groups to merge and claim the right of satisfaction at the expense of the citizens. In the process of claiming their right at the expense of others, they steadily enhance the power of the state which acts on their behalf. The wealth generated by industrial economies in the prevailing peaceful conditions has currently masked the immense reality. The reality could become apparently painful should the economic situation drastically deteriorate. However, the state can establish control in times of prosperity to restore social stability at the expense of freedom. Restoring the responsibility for social assistance to private or family charities would undoubtedly resolve this predicament. However, such solutions are neither desirable nor feasible. Society’s libertarian ideal where government runs nothing is quite unrealistic compared to the utopian ideal where it is in charge of running everything (Goldsmith, 2010, p.40)

Entering into a joint venture is a competitive advantage for the company. This is because the government will act to its interest, which will also benefit the company. The company is also involved win poverty and HIV eradication programs to assist the country to save its workforce. Ideally, this may seem to benefit the government but also, it benefits the company to meet its workforce requirements.

Ozone rules   

The interest groups are fighting for the right to shift ozone rules. They believe that president obama had an obligation to change the current rule that allows ozone exposure at 75 parts per billion. The groups are the environmental activists groups.  They fight for the right to have a sustainable and healthy environment in America.  Although the new standard proposed by the head of E.P.A will cost the states from 19 to 25 billion dollars, the benefits are also estimated to be 13 to 37 billion. In addition, these quality regulations will save lives of the American people who die every year due to ground level ozone (Broder, 2011).

President Obama is currently under a lot of pressure from the short term economic shut down. Although these calculations show that imposing a higher standard may be beneficial, Obama thinks that it might be a speculation and may turn out to be a political suicide. He considers the cost of imposing the change and thinks that it is wise to hold on to the current standard for now. At the moment, the president is concerned at stabilizing the economic situation than the environmental concern (Broder 2011).  Although the environment is important, the cost of this new regulation is high and setting it would take years to mature its profits. In simple calculation, it is easier to choose the economy over the environment.

Flush with Energy

The 1973 Arab oil embargo led to a devastating energy crisis in Denmark. As a result, the government decided to craft energy policies to combat the downfall in the energy sector. The Danish government came up with a program to mitigate the energy crisis. This program involved strict measures like banning Sunday driving and introducing taxes on gasoline and Carbon dioxide (CO2). There were however subsidies in the alternative energy sector and incentives too. This led to high development of green energy and also energy saving appliances. The high taxes in the gasoline energy sector were then subsidized in the income tax section for the people (Friedman, 2008).

After the implementation of the energy policy, there was a lot of development in green energy sector. This in turn created employment for the people of Denmark to the extent that today the unemployment rate in Denmark is only 1.6%. The clean environment due to the use of green energy and recycling used energy such as heat provides a safe and habitable country which supports global climatic concerns (Friedman, 2008). Use of alternatives such as bicycles keeps people fit thus reducing health conditions such as obesity.

The exploitation of green energy led to creation of green energy industries for concepts like wind mills and turbines. Energy saving appliances also came up thus exploding the Danish export market with green energy products. Employment was created thus economic growth. There are a number of innovations which have led to reduced emissions. These include:

1. Increased efficiency in energy- innovations such as the energy saving motion detectors and toilets fitted with different flushing powers depending on what is being flushed have aided in the conservation of energy hence facilitating efficient use of energy
2. Taxation- imposition of taxes on the Danes for use of CO2, gasoline and building-and-appliance efficiency standards facilitated economic growth without increasing their level of energy consumption.

• Use of electricity from wind which meets about 20% of its energy supply.

1. Recycling of waste-the waste from coal fired power plants is recycled and used for home heating.

China is regarded as the largest competitor since in the last 18months 35 new competitors have cropped up from the country. In my opinion, the United States policy on climate change is not firm and the government is not committed to implementing it. This is because the carbon dioxide emission levels are supposed to be 17% lower than the 2005 level yet the US congress could not extend the production tax credits for wind development in America (Friedman, 2008).

W.T.O. Moves to Revive Talks on Farm Subsidies

World Trade Organization (WHO) is the only international organization in the world that deals with rules that govern trade among different nations (Haerens, 2010). Its main mandate is to ensure that trade routines are not hindered at all but run freely and as predicted. Its core goals consist of agreements that are negotiated for and signed by the different trading nations. The agreements are further ratified by the parliaments of the individual nations. It assists producers of services and goods, as well as importers and exporters to transact their businesses.

Benefits that member states enjoy are that it handles disputes are in a constructive manner.The system promotes peace between nations. Choices for products and qualities are increased and economic growth is stimulated. It further influences reduction of living cost due to freer trade. It shields individual governments from lobbying and in general life is made more efficient by basic principles. World Trade Organization has a wide range of disadvantages. For instance, it only serves the interest of transnational corporations. It acts like a court that is stacked. The WTO refuses to address issues on labor and human rights. It has also constantly continued to ignore the plight of countries that are still developing (Reis, 2009).

In 2006, a dispute arose between US and Brazil. This was because of the discriminatory treatment that Brazil farmers believed to be experiencing. The Dispute Settlement Body (DSB) established a panel to settle the dispute. Later that year the chairman of the panel informed the DSB that Brazil subsidies on US goods was discriminatory. The panel, therefore, dissolved its work. The conflicting nations solved their problem before WHO had completed its work.

 

 

 

 

 

 

References

Becker, E. (2004). W.T.O. Moves to Revive Talks on Farm Subsidies

Broder M. John. (2011). Groups Sue After E.P.A. Fails to Shift Ozone Rules

Friedman, Thomas L. (2008). Hot, flat, and crowded: why we need a green revolution– and how it can renew America. New York: Farrar, Straus and Giroux,

Goldsmith, A. A. (2010). Business, government, and society: the global political economy. Mason, Ohio: Cengage Learning.

 

Heijden, Hein. (2010). Social movements, public spheres and the European politics of the environment: green power Europe?. Houndmills, Basingstoke, Hampshire: Palgrave Macmillan.

 

Turetken, O., & Demirors, O. (2007). The U.S. economic history, 4470, 195-207

 

Kolb, R. W., (2008). Encyclopedia of business ethics and society. Thousand             Oaks: Sage

Publications.

Korten, D. C. (1995) When corporations rule the world. West Hartford, Conn.: Kumarian

 

PressNocera,

 

Joe. (August 9, 2008). Diamonds Are Forever in Botswana. Talking Business

Winnick, Nick. (2011). Green power. New York: AV² by Weigl,.

Friedman, L. Thomas. (2008). Op-ed Columnis Flush With Energy
 

 

Team Process

Introduction

As a group, we have decided to analyze Whole Foods, which is a socially responsible company. Studying the history of the company has made our group realize that other companies should emulate its footsteps in leadership qualities. John Mackey the CEO of the company is a good leader who has inspired our group through his leadership qualities. Globalisation has changed the quality of business operations and has also revolutionised the criteria for success, which is identified as essential in the team work of today (Flin, O’Connor and Mearns, 2002). Organizations over the years have realized the power of teamwork, which has made it a strong tool for achieving success on the global platform. The major challenge when dealing with a  team is to maintain harmony between people of different origins, as companies are actively hiring individuals from different cultures to contribute positively in the success of the organization. This shows that all sectors are getting globalised and culturally diverse, and also suggests that a culturally diverse business environment requires individuals who are aware of the cultural needs of different members of the team. This will enable the management to uphold the quality of teamwork.

Leading by positive change

The virtue of leading by positive change is not easily achieved. However, Whole Foods management has done it all. Their focus on environmental sustainability is overwhelming. The company uses solar panels to utilize renewable energy sources. Also, Whole Foods operate on the rule of three R’s.

Reduce They believe in reducing environmental pollution through reduction of plastic bags that are released to the environment. In some regions, the company has managed to reduce it up to 75%. Additionally, they support public transportation and carpooling for team members.

Reuse The Company encourages the use of used plastic bags to reduce environmental pollution. Further, the company has recently implemented the use of re-useable bowls and plates at its dining areas.
Recycle The Company leads by example when it comes to recycling of plastic. First, they have introduced rechargeable batteries to replace rechargeable ones. In addition, they utilize recycled paper where possible.

Motivation others

According to Haselhuhn & Kray (2011), motivation goes a long way from one individual who changed positively to many more. It spreads quickly as it is the centre bolt that holds the will of people, which deem it fit to change from negative habits to positive ones. Personality is in-born such that it is invariably a permanent trait in people. That is why it needs to be changed by applying the will and desire to do so. For instance, an introvert person could be encouraged to talk so as to unravel why he/she does not like talking. The action plan is crucial as it betters the welfare of every social community. Since it has a core interest in assisting clients who want to bring a positive aspect of their image; the process is more important, and its results may be far reaching than imagined (Whetten & Cameron, 1991).

Communication is also part of motivation. The company leads by example by ensuring that communication is open throughout the company. This acts as an incentive for the employees to work hard and to gain a sense of belonging. Employees also should be motivated through generous compensation and rewards for them to achieve job satisfaction. The management also ensures that it appreciates all the employees to keep them focused on their work. As a decent company, the organization also caters for its customers. As a food supplier, they have a responsibility to ensure that the food that customers eat is healthy. In addition, loyal customers benefit from regular promotions.

Social responsibility

The way corporations behave in regard to social responsibility creates powerful effects on the image value of a brand and a company. It also reflects on the tendency of customers to choose a certain brand and on the financial functioning of corporations (Lou and Bhattacharya, 2006). The Whole Foods chain’s  marketing strategy relies on the fact that they are active supporters of organic farming by using only products that are additive-free and which come from farm workers, protecting at the same time the environment and the farmers.

Team work

According to Thomas et al., (2013), managing a team is not an easy task; it requires great motivation and effort. It is the responsibility of the manager to make sure that the team members remain focused and share a similar goal with the organization. According to Thacker and Yost (2002), effective communication and trust between the team leader and the members are of crucial importance for the success of the team.  Lack of trust and ineffective communication can result in conflicts, which can affect the quality of team work and in some cases can even break the team.  It is desired in a team to respect each other’s decision, so that everyone is happy with the final decision taken by the leader of the team. Every member of the team plays an effective role in the success of a task; therefore each member should proficiently understand the importance of fulfilling his/her responsibilities and his/her contribution in the team.  According to Taylor and Humphrey (2002), teams can be classified as work teams, sports teams or learning teams. I have worked as part of a work team during as a marketing manager in various firms and as a member of a sports team as a football coach in Africa.  I have noticed that, in both the teams, members must work in collaboration to improve each other’s performance for the betterment of the team.

According to my experience, making a team is not difficult but picking the right members to be the part of the team and to keep them in the team are the two most difficult tasks. Similar findings were presented by Taylor and Humphrey (2002); however, an argument presented by Haselhuhn and Kray (2011) emphasised the influence of human nature on the quality of teams. The efficacy of the team can be greatly affected by individual interests; therefore, individual interests must be kept aside both by the leader of the team and the members of the team. From my experience, I can say that teams should work in co-operation with each other and must always try to understand each other’s perspectives, as doing so upholds the quality of the team. However, there are situations where people do consider self interest over team interests and in such cases the harmony of the team can be disrupted. The involvement of all team members in important decisions is of crucial importance and, if given the chance, I will definitely rectify my mistakes and make acceptable collaborative decision, which is also suggested by Thacker and Yost (2002), to maintain the quality of work produced as a result of teamwork.

Conclusion

It can be concluded that the business environment is rapidly changing, and the financially tough environment due to the recent economic crisis had led to an increased demand for international managers who are highly skilled. It is evident from the literature that businesses can proficiently grow in this highly competent environment with the support of leader or managers possessing a flexible attitude to work. Furthermore, the increasing demands of the business industry in the recent years have highlighted the need of leaders who can change their leadership style in response to the changes. It was also clear from the literature that soft skills are in high demand due to their flexibility in comparison to the hard skills.

Further, Whole Foods which is a socially responsible company. Studying the history of the company has made our group realize that other companies should emulate its footsteps in leadership qualities. John Mackey the CEO of the company is a good leader who has inspired our group through his leadership qualities. Lastly, the Whole Foods chain’s  marketing strategy relies on the fact that they are active supporters of organic farming by using only products that are additive-free and which come from farm workers, protecting at the same time the environment and the farmers.

 

 

 

References

Flin, R., O’Connor, P. and Mearns, K. (2002) ‘Crew resource management: Improving

team work in high reliability industries’, Team performance Management, 8 (3/4),

8. 68-78.

Haselhuhn, M.P. and Kray, L. J.  (2011), Chapter 6 The Impact of Implicit Negotiation

Beliefs on Motivation and Cognition in Group Negotiation, in Elizabeth A. Mannix,

Margaret A. Neale, Jennifer R. Overbeck (ed.) Negotiation and Groups (Research

on Managing Groups and Teams, Volume 14), Emerald Group Publishing Limited,

pp.137-161

Luo, X. and C.C. Bhattacharya , 2006. Corporate Social Responsibility, Customer

Satisfaction, and Market Value, Journal of Marketing,no.70, (October), 1–18.

Mustafa, N., 2007. Fair Trade Fashion, Time, February, no.56.

Okonkwo, U., 2007. Luxury fashion branding: trends, tactics, techniques. Palgrave

Macmillan: New York

Rendtorff, J.D., 2009. Responsibility, Ethics and Legitimacy of Corporations.

Copenhagen Business School Press DK, 2009.

Sollish, F. and Semanik, J., 2011.Strategic Global Sourcing Best Practices.John Wiley

and Sons, 2011.

Taylor, R. and Humphrey, J. (2002) Fast Track to the Top: 10 Skills for Career Success.

London: Kogan Page Limited.

Thacker, R. A. And Yost, C. A. (2002) ‘Training students to become effective workplace

leaders’, Team Performance Management,  8 (3/4), pp. 89-94.

Thomas, G., Martin, R. and Riggio, R. E. (2013) ‘Leading groups: Leadership as a group

process’, Group Processes Intergroup Relations, 16 (3), pp. 3-16.

Whetten, D. A., & Cameron, K. S. (1991). Developing management skills (2nd ed.). New York, NY: HarperCollinsPublishers.

 

 

 

 

 

The Mississippi Freedom Project Historical Research

The Mississippi Freedom Project was run in the summer of 1964 in the state of Mississippi and its purpose was to push for an increase in the number of blacks registering to vote. This is because Mississippi had one of the lowest rates of blacks registering to vote and this was due to institutionalized racism that made it mandatory for them to take a test with disproportionately hard questions about the different sections of the area constitution. The fact that success or failure was determined by white registration clerks did not help the matter. This freedom project was carried out as a concerted effort between several rights groups as detailed in the analysis of a pamphlet published with the intention of raising funds from the members of the different communities. The fictional work of one an influential African American author is also discussed and related to the plight of the black community during this period (Hall, 1233).

To gain a better understanding of the whole project, a fundraising pamphlet used to raise finances for the project was consulted and analyzed. The document that was selected from the Special Collection’s Library was a pamphlet for the Mississippi Freedom Project. This project was sustained by the efforts of the members of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee which their headquarters seems to be based in Atlanta Georgia. This movement began in the summer of 1964 in an attempt to register as many African Americans as possible in the state of Mississippi, which had historically excluded African Americans from voting (Colby and David, 123). The document is divided into seven sections, development of the Mississippi Project, Voter Registration, and Freedom schools, Community Centers, Research Projects, White Community Projects and Legal Projects. The purpose of this pamphlet was therefore to rally up support for the voting rights of African Americans through the financial contributions of well-wishers from both the black and white communities (Colby and David, 123).

The next major portion of this pamphlet talks about the establishment of Freedom School’s throughout the south in order to supply political education to blacks unavailable through public schools. The main purpose of these schools’ was for the development of young leaders. By mid- July thirty five Freedom School’s had been established which was three times the number expected. Each of the Freedom School’s saw an average daily enrollment numbers of 2,100 students.

Each school had highly individualized instruction with a low student to teacher ratio. The program included remedial work as well as seminars in political science, the humanities, and creative writing. Most of their daily discussions that took place in this setting centered on problems in the community. One of the things that comes to mind when I think of Freedom School’s and African American schooling in general is an example used during one of our readings earlier in the semester. In Richard Wright’s Native Son the Dalton’s had offered to send Bigger to school to get himself an education so that he may become a more productive member of society (SNCC, 1964).

Another activity that is going on towards this issue that is being addressed in this pamphlet is the legal work that is being done with African-Americans to help them establish defenses for the millions of African American’s arrested across the state each day. One of the characters that I immediately thought of from our past readings was Boris A Max from Native Son. Boris was a Jewish lawyer who works for the Labor Defenders, an organization affiliated with the Communist Party. Max argues, based on a sociological analysis of American society, that institutionalized racism and prejudice—not inherent ethnic qualities—create conditions for violence in urban ghettos.

In my opinion most of the pamphlet looked to white America for support in trying to rally the forces in support of blacks being able to get the right to vote. This point of view arises from the fact that the document’s text highlights the efforts of some white people who have supported its movement as well as the display of an image of a white person who appears to be teaching a group of black students. One of the last sections of the pamphlet is titled “Freedom in Mississippi Depends On You” it lays out the cost of different things such as establishing Freedom Schools and the costs of miscellaneous items needed for the effort and states that any kind of contribution to the effort would be a huge assistance (SNCC, 1964).

Two people’s names are mentioned in this document and this is in relation to the contributions they made towards the Mississippi Freedom Schools. They are Robert Moses and Ella Baker.

Robert Moses- Robert Paris Moses who was the director of SNCC was born on January 23^rd 1935 in Harlem New York. He was usually known as Bob Moses.  Robert Parris Moses was one of the most influential black leaders of the civil rights struggle who had a vision of grassroots and community-based leadership (Hall, 1235). Although Moses’ leadership style was different from Martin Luther King’s, King appreciated the contributions that Moses made to the movement, claiming they were inspiring.

Ella Baker- Ella Josephine Baker (December 13, 1903 – December 13, 1986) was an African-American civil rights and human rights activist beginning in the 1930s. She was a behind-the-scenes activist, whose career spanned over five decades. The organization SNCC emerged from a meeting that she setup. Baker was one of SNCC’s highly revered adult advisors, called the “Godmother of SNCC” She worked alongside some of the most famous civil rights leaders of the 20th century, including W. E. B. Du Bois, Thurgood Marshall, A. Philip Randolph, and Martin Luther King, Jr. (SNCC, 1964).

The document also makes mention of several organizations that came together to ensure the success of the program. They include the Mississippi Freedom Democratic Party (MFDP), Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC), Council of Federal Organizations (CFO), National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) among others

Democratic Party of Mississippi- The Mississippi Freedom Democratic Party (MFDP) was an American political party created in the state of Mississippi in 1964, during the civil rights movement. It was organized by black and white Mississippians, with assistance from the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC) and Council of Federated Organizations (COFO), to challenge the legitimacy of the white-only US Democratic Party.

Council of Federal Organizations (COFO)- The Council of Federated Organizations (COFO) was a coalition of the major Civil Rights Movement organizations operating in Mississippi. COFO was formed in 1962 to coordinate and unite voter registration and other civil rights activities in the state and oversee the distribution of funds from the Voter Education Project. It was instrumental in forming the Mississippi Freedom Democratic Party. COFO member organizations included the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), Congress of Racial Equality (CORE) Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC) and the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC).

Student Non Violent Coordinating Committee (SNCC)- The Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC)  was one of the organizations of the American Civil Rights Movement in the 1960s. It emerged from a student meeting organized by Ella Baker held at Shaw University in April 1960. SNCC grew into a large organization with many supporters in the North who helped raise funds to support SNCC’s work in the South, allowing full-time SNCC workers to have a $10 per week salary. Many unpaid volunteers also worked with SNCC on projects in Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, Arkansas, and Maryland. SNCC played a major role in the sit-ins and freedom rides, a leading role in the 1963 March on Washington, Mississippi Freedom Summer, and the Mississippi Freedom Democratic Party over the next few years. SNCC’s major contribution was in its field work, organizing voter registration drives all over the South, especially in Georgia, Alabama, and Mississippi (SNCC, 1964).

Two places are mentioned in the pamphlet and they are Mississippi and Forrest County. Mississippi was mentioned because this state was the focus of the rights activists and the blatant denial of voting rights that African Americans had been subjected to. In Forrest County two additional freedom schools were opened to meet an unexpected demand. There are six schools there now, with an enrollment of 675 (SNCC, 1964).

There are many different ways of interpreting history and by extension historical documents. One way of contextualizing these documents is through the use of biographical information of the individuals and organizations that are represented in the documents. This exercise is based on a historical document titled “The Mississippi Freedom Project” and the purpose is to make use of the names of people and organizations represented in the document as reference points with the aim of better understanding the document.

This document was probably published towards the end 1963 and it is during this period the Civil Rights movement’s strength was increasing owing to the fact that it had begun enlisting the participation of a larger demographic that was previously accessed. The Freedom Project kicked off in 1964. Rather than focus exclusively on the black community, this movement began enlisting the help of the middle class, the whites and also those who were in institutions of higher learning. The publication must have been motivated by a sudden increase in the concern that blacks held for their rights (SNCC, 1964).

From the document that has been provided, only one name appeared and that was Robert Moses. He was the project director who led the SNCC into Mississippi in 1961. During the 1960s, this Harvard educated teacher played a key role in the Civil Rights movement especially in the leadership of the SNCC. Non-Violence was a favored approach in the fight for the rights of African Americans who were still largely considered to be second-class citizens with few rights and privileges. A man of his stature with the eloquence he had had the potential to inspire the confidence of the African Americans and at the same time appeal to the reason of the members of the white community to empathize with the plight of blacks in American society (SNCC, 1964).

Given the fact that some of the racism was based on draconian laws from the Jim Crow Era, it was imperative that the push for civil rights be fought politically. This would serve to speed up the legislative changes that would eventually stop some of the racist laws such as segregated schools and the denial of voting rights for blacks (Colby and David, 123). At the time of publication of this document, several political parties were in existence. The Democratic Party of Mississippi was an all-white political party based in Mississippi and it is highly probable that this party was in support of the oppressive laws. The Freedom Democratic Party was formulated by the blacks who lived in Mississippi as a response to the existence of the Democratic Party of Mississippi with the aim of ensuring that interests of blacks are also taken care of in the same way that those of whites were being considered.

The Council of Federal Organizations was a conglomerate of civil rights organizations from different parts of the country and it was formed primarily with the intention of using this as a central point through which the clamor for voting rights for the blacks who had for the longest time been marginalized through the denial of this right to vote. This was not a political party per-se but more of a unit that helped to network them and ensure that the operations of the different civil rights groups worked in harmony towards a common goal especially with the issue of voting rights (Colby and David, 123).

The reason why Mississippi was selected by the SNNC because the fact that blacks in that State were being deliberately shut out of the electoral process through draconian laws that demanded them to satisfy ridiculous preconditions such as a written test and exorbitant fees. This place had a large population of marginalized black people and this meant that the SNCC’s presence here would have been extremely relevant and also helped in drumming up support for changes in the system towards a society more inclusive for blacks .  .

Discussion of “The Bluest Eye” By Morrison Tony

This book is focused on the life of a young girl, Pecola whose life is punctuated by misfortune upon misfortune. The fact that her parents, Polly and Cholly are constantly fighting greatly contributes to her inferiority complex and strong desire for blue eyes since she believes her own physical appearance is ugly and the cause of the problems she faces at home. One day her drunken farther Cholly rapes her and upon reporting this to the mother she is disapproved as her mother does not believe what happened. This incident is repeated severally and as a result she gets impregnated by the father. This brings great shame to the young girl who is barely in her teens. Pecola still believes that it is her ugliness which makes her attract these problems (Morrison, 2007).

In one of the narrator’s flashbacks, she recalls that Cholly too had a difficult childhood, being abandoned by his mother at four days and later being humiliated by two white men who found him in a compromising position in and forced him to continue as they watched. Her desire for blue eyes is a manifestation of her desire to become white since she believes a change in her race will make her life better. Out of desperation she goes to a quack shaman who deceives her into believing that she will indeed turn and have blue eyes. The baby eventually dies and Pecola loses her sanity as she lives with Pauline who had since moved from her previous residence (Morrison, 2007).

Relation of this story to African American History

This story’s characters represent the African American community and its plight in the United States of America during the struggle for equal civil rights (Hall, 1233). Cholly, Mr. Henry and the girls’ father Mr. MacTeer. The bitterness exhibited by Cholly can be linked to unfortunate and at times humiliating situations. His being abandoned and discovered represents the slavery that brought the blacks to the United States. The challenges he faced being humiliated by the two white men is similar to the manner in which slaves were stripped off their dignity during that dark period. As a result some such as mr MacTeer strove to do the best to be a good father and provider while others like Cholly took out their bitterness on all those around them making them in effect abusive men who were lost in alcoholism (Morrison, 2007).

Pecola, Polly, Freida, Claudia and the three prostitutes represent the African American women of the time. The refusal of the sisters’ seeds to germinate due to the barren ground indicate the great limitations that had been placed on their desire to develop and come up with different projects that would make them independent. The prostitutes further emphasize the undignified state of these women during the time period. Pecola’s plight too is representative of the challenges women in this community were exposed to. These challenges included lack of financial opportunities, sexual abuse and also abusive relationships. The institutionalized racism led many black women to hate themselves and in turn desire to have lighter skin and others to desire other features of white people. This led many of these women to desperation (Morrison, 2007).

While it is a known fact that there was institutionalized racism that created hegemony of whites above blacks, there seems to have been a lot of racial discrimination taking place within the black community on the basis of skin tone and gender to a lesser degree. Though a fictious work, this novel brings up interesting angles of the lives of African Americans and the struggles they faced in a country that was scarcely prepared to recognize them as citizens who were worthy of all manner of civil rights. The struggles that these women faced can be compared to the opposition faced by the courageous men and women who had to put up with threats of murder, beatings and arrests as they pushed for the registration of black voters in Mississippi.

Works Cited

Colby, David C. “The voting rights act and black registration in mississippi.” Publius: The Journal of Federalism 16.4 (1986): 123-138.

Hall, Jacquelyn Dowd. “The long civil rights movement and the political uses of the past.” The Journal of American History 91.4 (2005): 1233-1263.

Morrison, Toni. The bluest eye. Random House Digital, Inc., 2007.

Student Non Violent Coordinating Committee (SNCC). Mississippi Freedom Project Transcription. 1964