Harley Davidson Motor Company Strategy Analysis

Harley Davidson Motor Company Strategy Analysis INTRODUCTION This report aims to evaluate the strategic options available to the Harley Davidson organization. Harley Davidson Inc. has two operational segments, motorcycle and financing. Harley Davidson Financial Services (HDFS) offers loans, cycle insurance and protection plans to meet the needs of their owners, whilst the motorcycle segment designs, produces and markets primarily heavyweight touring, custom and performance motorcycles. It also manufactures motorcycle parts and accessories, gear and apparel. The company is the only major American producer of motorcycles and operates globally, with sales mostly in North America, Europe, Asia/Pacific and Latin America. Although in the past the company has experienced growth and continued success, attributed to its brand loyalty, in 2009 Harley Davidson (H-D) had to shut down and consolidate factories due to the effects of the recession and the fall of the US housing market. Strategic options can only be developed after the companys strategic position is known. Thus the first section of the report uses tools and concepts to determine H-D strategic position. In light of the companys strategic position strategic options are then formulated; this is presented in section 2. The third section of the report then uses the success criteria model presented by Johnson, Scholes and Whittington in corporate strategy, as a basis to evaluate the strategic options presented and recommendations are made. THE STRATEGIC POSITION OF HARLEY DAVIDSON INC. This section of the report is concerned with understanding the strategic position of Harley Davidson Inc. in an attempt to formulate strategic options for the company. It first identifies the changes that are occurring in the environment and how these changes affect H-D and its business activities and second the resource strength and capabilities of H-D. 1.1 The Environment In order to understand the environment which H-D operates in the following frameworks are used with the aim of helping to identify key issues and challenges and ways of coping with complexity and change. 1.1.1 Pestle Analysis In 2009 H-D stood to gain from the Economic Stimulus Package, passed into legislation by the Barack Obama Administration. The federal stimulus package gives taxpayers breaks if they purchase a new car, light truck, RV, or motorcycle. In addition, Coachman industries also a manufacturer of leisure vehicles and a competitor of H-D was eliminated from the New York Stock Exchange.(Wachter 2009). According to the Datamonitor report: The motorcycle industry segment has had economic growth for the past three years, and has only recently been experiencing decline. In 2007 it declined 2.3%, yet is forecasted to recover 4.3% by 2012. An economic factor in favor  of H-D, despite this decline, is that the U.S. industry generated total revenues of $10.2 billion in 2007, of which 98.8% were of motorcycles (not scooters, minibikes, etc.). Furthermore, within the U.S. economy H-D holds the majority of motorcycle sales. Therefore, even while industry growth is declining, H-D sales and other motorcycle sales are still continuing to increase. The Motorcyclye Industry Council (MIC) discloses that leisure product industries are facing steep decline however the motorcycle segment though declining ,is not doing so at a steep rate. Tim Buche, President of the MIC says Overall motorcycle sales were down 7.2%, not nearly as sharp a decline as many other consumer products in todays economy (Wasef 2009). Socially H-D has a competitive edge which is owed to its customer base, strong brand loyalty and demographic trends such as the increse in female operators. This loyalty is indicated in the average age of H-D consumers. H-D average consumer buying age is 42 years old and increasing (Gauvin 2005). H-D aspires to increase its consumer demographics, however à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦although the younger generation below 35 years of age has posted the largest gains in ownership, the generation that is on the edge of the baby boomer segment will be the main catalyst of growth for the industry (Koncept 2007). One social factor that may negatively affect the sale of H-D motocycles is the stigma that has been attached to these leisure vehicles. Alot of people believe that motorcycles are dangerous and this belief is strengthened due to the high rate of motorcycle fatalities and crashes. H-D stands the chance of escaping this stigmatisation if the public views their bikes as cruisers and not speed bikes. Technologically H-D can take advantage of antilock brake systems. Antilock brakes could help riders avoid fatal crases according to a study done by the insurance industry. 1.1.2 Porters Five Forces Model Rivalry H-D operates within the Recreational Vehicles industry along with five other major competitors: Winnebago, Polaris, Thor, Arctic Cat and Marine Products, the top performers within the industry which holds 92% of the market share by volume with a market capitalization of 64.653 Billion of a total Industry of 7 Billion. Other firms in different industries that are direct product rivals include Honda Motor Company Limited, Yamaha Motor Co, Ltd., and Suzuki Motor Corporation (Appendix 1). The presence of these large multinational corporations with exceptionally high assets boosts the degree of rivalry within the industry. Because of the small number of material rivals, the markets revenue is shared between fewer firms and enhances the degree of rivalry for bottom line profit. This rivalry forces most competitors to try and diversify their business models through geographical expansion or vertical expansion, leading to interests and investments in a variety of other segments such as the automobile, watercraft, industrial and farming equipment areas. (Datamonitor 2004). Threat of Substitutes The Recreational Vehicle industry faces threats from the Automobile Industry, from public transportation options and bicycles. The threat is largely dependent on the indispensability of motorcycles and other lifestyle products to the end user.(Datamonitor 2008). In most developed countries, motorcycles are leisure items and are not a necessity and are therefore largely dispensable or substitutable by more practical items such as cars or more cost effective means of transportation such as bicycles. This lack of necessity increases the threat of substitutes and is one of the major reasons why the external market goes into decline during economic recession. Buyer Power Overall, buyer power is low due to sustainable competitive advantage of product differentiation which is impossible for other brand competitors to match. Supplier Power Large multinational corporations such as Harley-Davidson can receive materials from many different international suppliers and face low switching costs due to minimal product differentiation. This presence within the international market boosts Industry leaders power. Overall, supplier power is moderate. Threat of New Entrants Overall, this threat is moderate due to high set up costs, high brand recognition, customer loyalty and high research and development costs. 1.2 Resources Strength and Capabilities Organizational Resources H-D has a formal structure that works for the company: decentralized, expert teams and leadership circles that value employee input. Programs they use to plan, report and track inventory and production include their Supply Management Strategy system (SMS), Vibration Tech PdM technology systems, as well as their web-based H-D Distribution supplier network that provides vendors with a wealth of information about supply and demand within the company. Physical Resources The Harley Triangle provides a basis for tracking and monitoring the firms physical resources. Location and Sophistication of management and the expertise of manufacturing personnel and other employees is the key in accessing raw materials, procurement and upkeep related to manufacturing equipment. H-D plants are streamlined and well-maintained, which is a core resource for H-D. Technological Resources H-D has many technological resources: including many different brand name Patents, Trademarks, and Copyrights which protect its reputation and image. Human Resources/Capital Trust, Knowledge, Managerial capabilities, as well as organizational culture are H-Ds most valuable human resources. The company culture, gives H-D a major competitive advantage. Employees and suppliers know their input is valued and take pride in their work. People involved are passionate about the brand and this adds invisible value to the company. Innovation Resources Employee and supplier, as well as managements ideas are huge resources for H-D, as these people know the business and know its potential. Since there are such a variety of inputs, H-Ds capacity to innovate and create/develop new product is not subject to stagnation or groupthink. However, H-D does try to stay true to its niche market, and this creates some boundaries for innovative ideas. Reputational Resources Reputation with customers, brand name, perceptions of product, and reputation with suppliers are all very beneficial to H-Ds operations, and keep customers loyal to the product. Interactions and relationships are stressed at H-D in order to ensure quality workmanship and mutually beneficial participation in all stages of production. CAPABILITIES Purposely Integrated Technological Resources H-D ensures that all processes and activities throughout its value chain are integrated using web based SMS systems, barcodes, and reports that enable its JIT inventory flow. This allows production to flow smoothly. Manufacturing H-Ds JIT inventory pull system means that it must have streamlined manufacturing abilities. H-D does this by ensuring quality inputs into its manufacturing plants, flow production methods, and well-maintained equipment. H-D manufacturing plants are capable of producing many different models and base their inventory off of customer pull demand, reducing costs around the board as well as inventory finished products that sit unsold in warehouses (of which H-D has very few). Distribution JIT inventory management needs good transportation flow logistics. H-D has the capability to reduce lead times and ensure pull delivery through its private fleet of trucks and contracts with distribution suppliers. STRATEGIC OPTIONS The identification of possible directions builds on an understanding of H-D strategic position. The adaptation of Ansoffs product/market matrix is used for identifying directions for strategic development. Development directions are the strategic options available to H-D in terms of products and market coverage taking into account the strategic capability of the company and the expectation of shareholders. (Johnson et al 2005). Figure2, the adaptation of Ansoffs product/market matrix summarizes the strategic options available to H-D. Figure 2. Strategy Development Directions Source: Johnson et al (2005) Exploring Corporate Strategy H-D can choose one or more of the following options: It can protect and build on its current position. It can develop new markets for its products. It H-D can also develop new products in new markets and It diversifies into new markets and develops new products. These options can be pursued through different development methods which are internal development, mergers and acquisitions and strategic alliances. The options chosen has to address the key issues and challenges faced by the H-D, the company must also satisfy stakeholders expectations but most important H-D must have the resources and capabilities to develop the options chosen. In other words the option must be suitable, acceptable and feasible (Johnson et al 2005). The H-D motorcycle has been an American icon since 1903. Harley has built one the most unique reputations within the American motorcycle business. The motorcycles have transformed into a lifestyle, rather than mere transportation. Utilizing the motorcycles image, H-D became a market for recreational vehicles; constituting a sense of freedom and leisure to transportation. Often complementary to other recreational vehicles, such as motor homes, boats and snowmobiles. H-D has taken advantage of their exceptional culture and has used it to create sales. However, regardless of Harleys reputation and heritage, an economic downturn has shown that Harley Davidson Inc. needs to restructure their market. Financial crisis has slowed consumer spending, ultimately leading to low sales motorcycles and recreational vehicles. Due to the economic conditions, H-Ds 2008 profit fell 30 percent, decreasing shipments by 8 percent. (Harley Davidson Annual 2009 Report). The demand for heavyweight motorcycles has dropped dramatically, not only in the US economy but also worldwide. A slow domestic economy forces one to direct a focus on international prospects to open future long-term opportunities. The American dream, associated with Harleys, needs to be changed to fit in other dynamic cultures to increase market size. Also, increasing market size will allow more investment in research and development to apply competitive advantages within the market. H-D already has an upper hand in terms of brand uniqueness and clearly stands out from the ordinary motorcycle. An already attractive product will allow RD to function at an optimal rate. Harley Davidson Inc. currently operates internationally and the demand in foreign countries has forced management to apply their leadership and marketing skills to international markets. The economic slump has forced H-D to restructure its international management team and outlook. More experience and expertise into a countrys culture and legal requirements are essential. A global management team needs to be comfortable and confident when operating with or in foreign countries. Understanding international business practices and ethics is a crucial quality when trying to expand. Harley needs to create country based teams that are determined to make wise cultural decisions. Closely executing legal dimensions, geographic barriers, cultural obstacles, and investments will positively position Harley Davidson Inc. for future prospects. Harley Davidson Inc.s former CEO stated, International markets are a great opportunity, we need to grow them to diversify our revenue base (Harley Davidson Inc. 2009). A new CEO has been appointed and is expected to bring global and manufacturing experience. Keith E. Wandell is well attuned to international sales as well as manufacturing experience. These two qualities are exactly what Harley Davidson needs in order to reconstruct their international markets. This could be a turning point for Harleys selling approach. Building manufacturing plants in bigger foreign markets will help relieve shipping expenses, taxes, tariffs, and will be able to accurately respond to the specialized demand. Starting manufacturing plants in other countries could create numerous job opportunities. Properly trained managers would provide a domestic leadership style that is optimally adjusted to the proper culture. Not only would this create more jobs for US management, but also generate more revenue for foreign economies as locals will be needed for production. Although a long term goal, the production of manufacturing plants would be a plausible and positive future management decision as markets expand over time. Many consumer behavior research studies indicate that consumers are very likely to purchase products that are offered as limited editions. One strategy H-D can use in order to foster growth is to release a limited edition motorcycle, co-created by consumers as part of the promotional mix. H-D can use this promotional strategy to get consumers involved, appeal to their desires for rarity, and increase sales. While H-D has released several limited edition motorcycles in the past, this promotion can be adapted into a new strategy. The new limited edition motorcycle would require the involvement of consumers to help co-create the product. H-Ds research and development department would design three different motorcycles and then they would be uploaded to the H-D website. Then, consumers would be able to log on and vote for their favorite motorcycle. The winning motorcycle would then go into limited production. Those who voted would have first priority to purchase the motorcycle. Owners would then get an all-inclusive trip to the H-D Sturgis Rally. This promotion would be relatively inexpensive, yet highly effective. The designers could design the motorcycles in a way that reuses as many existing parts as possible, while still creating a unique style. This design process would lower production costs for the limited edition motorcycle. A limited edition motorcycle release of this nature would be an effective strategy because consumers are flocking to brands that are playing hard to get. Now more than ever, rarity is important for the high-end luxury sector, affluent 30-40 year olds, baby boomers, generation X and Y, and creative class consumers. This trend has shown that successful selling involves building a niche market rather than appealing to the masses. The world is becoming saturated with products that are very similar to each other, and the quest for rarity has been driven by the feeling that certain products will help us to stand apart from the masses. A limited edition H-D motorcycle is the perfect way for consumers to do just that. H-D is not new to the limited edition market scheme- the strategy just needs to be adjusted to todays consumer. One of H-Ds previously successful limited edition motorcycles is the 50th Anniversary Nightster. This model was popular because it made people want what they couldnt have. This model was embellished with a gold anniversary emblem and the year 1957 embroidered on the seat. The motorcycle also was aligned with the traditional masculinity of H-D, including the traditional colors, chrome pipes, and rugged-look. Only 2000 of these were manufactured and they retailed at only $10,000- now thats buzz-worthy. Even H-D representatives say they dont know of a single dealership with one in stock. (Harley Davidson Inc 2009). Even in the declining economy, H-D can still grow their company by altering their promotional mix. H-D can create hype and buzz by releasing a limited edition motorcycle, co-created by consumers. Consumer behavior research shows that consumers respond positively to product campaigns focused on rarity and scarcity. The buzz created due to this product release will help to increase brand awareness, and more importantly, brand resonance. These two factors ultimately result in more sales for the company. RECOMMENDATIONS There are many strategic options available to H-D however the choice made should be one that the company can pursue with existing resources and one that is line with the companys vision and mission. H-D should protect and build on their current position through consolidation and market penetration. Consolidation is where organizations protect and strengthen their position in their current markets with current products. Market penetration, is where an organization gains market share. (Johnson et al 2005). Appendix 1 pages 5 and 6 shows that H-D used this strategy they consolidated some of their operations so as to adjust cost structures and invested in their brand as a means of market penetration. Appendix 1 page 7 also states that H-D plans to add 100 to 150 dealer points through 2014. This is a good strategic option for the future but H-D should pursue this only after they have regained market share, reason being so that the company would have enough resources, especially financial resources to successfully pursue this option. Product development and market development as discussed above are also good options but should not be pursued by H-D at this point in time as these options require extensive resources and investment. Whilst new products may be vital to the future of the organization, the process of creating a broad product line is expensive, risky and potentially unprofitable. (Johnson et al 2005).H-D should use all their available resources to develop the company internally and focus on their brand. (as they are presently doing; Appendix 1 page 6) CONCLUSION H-D has a strong foundation and a uniquely powerful brand however this was not enough to allow the company to escape the problems associated with the recent economic downturn. H-D has to pursue strategies that will enable them to sustain growth and market share to endure economic hard times and to keep away competitors. The company has laid down their business strategy quite clearly in their 2009 annual report (See Appendix page 6) and this is an excellent start to do achieving this. If the company can turnaround itself around from the verge of bankruptcy in the 1980s then with the right tangible and intangible resources, current technology and the knowledge of past strategies used Harley Davidson can become the leader in the motorcycle industry internationally. REFERENCES Datamonitor (2007) Motorcycles in the United States: Industry Profile. [Online] Available at: http://web.ebscohost.com/bsi/pdf?vid=6hid=115sid=60f53058-dbd4-402c-8546-03baa6899d4a%40sessionmgr107. [Accessed: 5th March, 2011]. Gauvin, T (2005) Harley Davidson. [Online] Available at: http://209.85.173.132/search?q=cache:lVbpsaLDfmAJ:perleybrook.umfk.maine.edu/slides/spring%25202005/bus411/harley%2520Davidson.ppt+harley+davidson+external+analysishl=enct=clnkcd=2gl=us. [Accessed: 5th March, 2011]. Harley-Davidson Inc (2009) 2009 Annual Report. [Online] Available at: http://www.harley-davidson.com/en_US/Content/Pages/Student_Center/student-center.html?locale=en_USbmLocale=en_US#annualreport [Accessed: 27th February, 2011]. Harley-Davidson Inc (2009) Harley-Davidson Reports 2008 Results, Plans Lower 2009 Shipments and Unveils Strategy for Current Environment. [Online] Available at: http://www.harley-davidson.com/wcm/Content/Pages/HD_News/Company/newsarticle.jsp?locale=en_USarticleLink=News/0375_press_release.hdnewsnewsYear=2009history=news [Accessed: 27th February, 2011]. Johnson, Gerry, Scholes, Kevan and Whittington, Richard (2005) Exploring Corporate Strategy. Seventh Edition. Harlow, Essex: Pearson Education. Print ISBN 0 273 68734 4. Koncept, A (2008) Recreational Vehicle Market: Aging Baby Boomers to Fuel Growth. [Online] Available at: http://www.konceptanalytics.com/. [Accessed: 27th February, 2011]. Wasef, B (2009) Motorcycle Industry Council Reports Drop in Motorcycle Sales, Upswing for Scooters and Dual-Purposes. [Online] Available at: http: //motorcycles.about.com/b/2009/02/06/motorcycle-industry-council-reports-drop-in-motorcycle-sales-upswing-for-scooters-and-dual-purposes.htm. [Accessed: 25th February, 2011]. Wachter, D (2009) Motorcyclists Reap Benefits from the Stimulus Package. [Online] Available at:http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/article/motorcyclists_reap_benefits_from_the_stimulus_package/20722/. [Accessed: 3rd March, 2011].

Fundamentals of Gangs Essay -- Gangs Gang Drugs Crime Essays

Fundamentals of Gangs Street gangs are an organization of young people that are usually in their teens and twenties. They join together and claim a territory or neighborhood as their own. They are known for being violent and heavily involved in drug peddling. On the streets graffiti is the means of communication of territorial limits and to challenge other gangs. A challenge can be anything from making a mark on enemy territory or crossing out enemy tag. There are generally 4 types of individuals associated with street gangs. The â€Å"hard-cores† are the members who talk, act, dress, and commit criminal acts as a gang member. The â€Å"Associates† will identify themselves with gang members in there neighborhood, but rarly get involved. the â€Å"Peripherals† are those who identify with gangs for protection or for favors. These are mostly women . They are used to carry drugs or guns for members in return for money or drugs. Than there are the â€Å"gonna-be’s† they are people who aren’t gang members but wear gang clothes and act like gang members. They are sometimes more dangerous than normal members. They are the recruitment pool for new members. The gang warfare of the 1980’s into today, is just as dangerous to join as to be a member. To join one of these gangs one must do all sorts of crazy things to â€Å"prove your loyalty to the gang.† Which could be anything from committing a crime to playing Russian roulette. Crip members initiate into the gang by committing a crime in front of gang witnesses. The initiation process is called â€Å"Loc'ing†-In. Female members have the option to commit a crime or become Sexed-In (Sex with several older members). The most common form of initiation into other gangs is something that they call â€Å"walking the line.† The â€Å"prospect† is instructed to walk between two lines of gang members, with his/her hands behind them, while members beat and kick them. The prospect must repeat this process until they get from one end of the line to the other without falling down. Along with the initiation routines is the memorization of alliance and set history, organization and mythical symbolism that the gangs refer to as â€Å"knowledge.† Some of this knowledge was the explosion of Street Gangs in the Los Angeles area during the mid to late twentieth century. There were three main periods where gangs in Los Angeles grew at a rapid rate. The first of which was... ...nforcement to track and identity. Presently there are about 200 known Crip gangs in Los Angeles and 70 Blood gangs. Both the Crips and the Bloods developed their own distinctive style that would let anyone recognize them at a sight glance. Just by looking at the color of their clothes, or their tattoos they can be easily distinguished. The Crips started using the color blue for their clothing to set them apart from other gangs. Also the Crips began referring to each other as â€Å"Cuzz,† short for cousin. While the bloods wore red, and referred to each other as â€Å"bloods.† A select group of bloods get a tattoo of two burned dots over a single burned dot. This represents a dog’s paw, so they refer to each other as â€Å"dog’s.† A lot of times members of the Crips dislike using words that start with â€Å"B† and bloods dislike using words that start with â€Å"C.† So to a blood a word like cigarette would bigarette.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  These gangs have a long and complex history that came together in the 1980’s to have many riots and gang wars. Many people were killed it was horrible. There history has been filled with a lot of violence. And now what started as a group of people has turned into a way of life.

Screening of Chlamydia trachomatis Infection in women Is it necessary?

SUMMARY: Chlamydia trachomatis is one the most prevalent bacteria that found in patients with Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs), which almost represent asymptomatic in society. Two hundred sixty urine samples of women in two groups (symptomatic and asymptomatic) were collected from patients attending STI clinic at Mehrad hospital in Tehran and tested by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for the presence of C. trachomatis DNA. A total of 39 women in both group were infected (14.99%), which 27/130 person of them were in symptomatic group (20.76%), compared with 12/130 person in asymptomatic group (9.23%). A significant association was seen between C. trachomatis infections with history of STIs in both groups dependently and with urinary variable parameters such as WBC in each group independently, and with epithelial cells just in symptomatic women. The present study shows that screening strategies for chlamydial infections as part of routine investigations, especially in-married sym ptomatic women are INTRODUCTION Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) are the second major cause of unpleasant disease in young adult women worldwide (1). Genital infection of Chlamydia trachomatis is one of the most common STIs and considered as the most common treatable and preventable STIs and cause of infertility in women (2). Although infection with C. trachomatis has been suggested to be a cause of infertility due to the sequels on the genital tract, but in many hospitals and clinics do not be routine screening for C. trachomatis infections. Nowadays, detection of C. trachomatis infections has improved with development of nucleic acid based amplification methods such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in urine samples and most countries estab... ...d that. In order to optimize this strategy, sexual health services should become widely available, and the services should publicize in a comfortable and appealing way in Iran. However, asymptomatic C. trachomatis infected people have a key role in distribution of infection and may remain shadowy and therefore keep on spreading the infection to partners. Interventions of variable content may lead to favored changes in information, manner, awareness, self-efficacy, skills, and behaviors such as using appropriate procedures for contraceptive ways, sexually infection causes, and practice of protected sexual manners. Finally further studies in order to determine the correlations between infecting people and other variables needed in other cities of Iran. ACKNOWLEDGMENT This project was supported by the Tehran University of Medical sciences.

The Clean Water Act Of 1977 :: The Clean Water Act

As swans drift with the current on a secluded lake in upper Canada they think not of the water they are in but of dreams of the past and wants for the future. On the other hand, seals off the coast of Northern California fear for their lives every day of humans exploiting their natural habitat. Many things can endanger water born animals, and most all of these come directly from humans. The pollutants of water come from many sources both close and far away from the water body itself. Wastes of humans are the major cause of pollution in the water, such materials include sewage, chemicals among other notable items. First, the composition water: water is odorless, tasteless and a transparent liquid. Though in large quantities water appears to have a bluish tint, it maintains the transparent tendency when observed in smaller quantities. Water covers approximately seventy percent of the Earth's surface in the solid and liquid form. Pollutants can be carried over a great distance by combin ing with evaporating moisture, forming clouds and then the wind taking the clouds to the larger body of water. This process is called acid rain and it is a major source of water pollution. Acid rain has been a problem since the Industrial Revolution, and has kept growing ever since. With acid rain moving over to a fresh water body, the plants and animals could experience pollution that they never had to deal with before and they could possibly die for the sudden change without them having time to adapt, if this is possible. Clean water involves seclusion of lakes and hoping the acid rain does not reach these pure water supplies. Another major source of contaminating clean water are oil spills and how destructively they blanket the shoreline they come in contact with. Although offshore drilling expeditions contribute some to the devastating outcome, oil tankers are the superior enemies toward the water. One estimate is that for every one million tons of petroleum shipped one ton is s pilled. The largest super tanker spill was in 1979 when 3.3 million barrels was spilled off the coast of France. The largest in the United States was the Exxon Valdez in the gulf of Alaska. On the night of March 24, 1989 the 987 foot Exxon Valdez ran aground in the gulf of Alaska spilling 260,000 barrels of oil. With the help of the forceful winds, the slick soon covered about 1,100 miles of shoreline, including many islands in the sound.

Back in the Day

Back in The Day I remember being a kid, and it was so fun. Just being yourself as one person, compared to what the kids do now. Living the in now moment, instead of looking into the future. I will talk about the â€Å"pre-teenagers† now as to when I was a â€Å"pre-teenager†. I’m not saying the children now are bad; it is just that times have really changed. Back in my prime, as a child, I loved playing in the outdoors. Could not get enough of it; I could stay outside all day, but I obviously couldn’t.If all I had was a ball I could find a way to play any type of game. In today’s world kids have all different new technology and devices; most don’t go outside and play unless they are forced to. They stay indoors on the weekend, when it is eighty-six degrees outside, and play computer games until it is time for supper. There is one good thing that comes with the kid’s technology; they have â€Å"games† that help them learn, and a lot of them. As to the only game we had on computers was Kid Pix, which was just a drawing board you could do things on.I also remember when I was little the technology was nothing compared to today, or what kids have now. I had a â€Å"Woody† doll from Toy Story, and you pulled his string so he would talk. As to young kids have talking babies and action figures without pulling a string. When I was younger you did chores because you felt you had to help out the family out in some way, or you did them because you were forced into doing them. Actually I loved washing, cleaning, and also drying dishes with my parents. It was almost like bonding time.My brother or I didn’t even think about back talking to my parents, or else we would have to go kneel in the corner for a certain amount of time. Boys and girls today, I don’t think they do chores for any reason, or do them at all. You can somewhat blame the parents for not being more strict, but some kids still wouldnà ¢â‚¬â„¢t do it. Another thing I had when I was little was hand-me-down clothes from my brother. I thought it was so cool finally being able to wear his clothes. That meant I was growing or getting as big as him.Kids today get new clothes all the time, whether to buy them for fun, buying clothes to follow their idols, or other reasons. The children have more of a variety of clothes today compared to the early two thousands or late nineteen-nineties. I think personally children have it way easier than I had it as a child, but every kid lives life better than his or her parents, or someone older than them. Every little person just needs to thank their parents everyday for everything they have in their life.

American Judicial System

The American judiciary system was found on the adversarial model. In the United State of America, the constitution founders believed that the only best form of government was one that would promote the welfare of an individual such as one social class or a director. The middle class was favored as the most likely group to promote the common welfare because they had in mind that the rich and poor would mostly be concerned with promotion of their own interests. The founders of constitution also believed that the common welfare meant having total protection to each individual’s natural rights of property, life and liberty.They chose a form of government called the republican government (Vaughan, 2003, p. 1712-1862). Because England’s powers of government were balanced and divided among the king and the parliaments two houses (the commons and the House of Lords), this system was applicable. This is because it best exemplified republican government. Madison J. who was one of the United States Farmers had his own definition to the republic as a nation or country whose laws and policies are made and administered by some of representatives of the people.He recommended that those representatives should be elected by a large number of people but not a small class. In addition, he figured out that such a government would fully serve the society with no special consideration to particular groups. More so, apart from their nations of republican government, natural rights and common good the constitution founders wanted written laws that would clearly show the rights of all individuals and extent of the power in government. The American constitution sets forth the fundamental laws and rules showing how their government is operated and organized.Although most of the countries have both unwritten and written constitutions, the limited powers of the government by a constitution which must be obeyed by the government is the one that distinguishes a dictatorial gove rnment from a constitutional one. The contrast is perceived in that, the dictatorial government has unlimited powers over the government and its natural resources. It is very difficult for the citizens to force such kind of tyrannical rules to obey the law because the rules also control the nation’s defense force group like police and military.https://www. netsafa. navy. mil/ipg/judicial-process. htm In a government governed by a constitution, the laws set should show the basic rights of its citizens to their property, liberty and life. It states that the government should have a responsibility to guard such rights. It also has the government’s power limitations shows the extent to which citizen’s lives cannot be interfered with by the government. Also it includes the ways by which the nation can be changed through the consent of its citizens.The constitution farmers in America borrowed some ideas from the British model and came up with a series of balances and checks so as to have protection against power abuse by the government. To avoid domination of powers by one sector in the government, powers are given to quite different branches of government. The two main power branches in a constitution include; the executive branch which has the responsibility of enforcing the laws, and the legislative branch which is responsible for law making. This information centers on the judicial branch system in the United States government (Young, 54).Although all other nations have laws and rules governing people’s relationships with each other, and other kinds of rules which govern human relationships like the custom, religion and accepted morality, the American’s judicial system appears to be a bit complex. The complexity is with the courts at different levels like in state, Federal County and Municipal bodies. It is not easy to understand the interrelationships although there are laws which clarifies jurisdiction and assigns responsibil ities. According to the judicial foundation system, nobody and nothing in the country can stand outside the law or above the law.In the United States, the penalty for running a red light in vehicles is same to the general or admiral because it is made for a season or private. The brief in the primacy of the law is basic to the citizen’s way of life. The law becomes the ultimate arbiter while the courts are its major guardians. The actions of all other government branches must have consistency with the laws. With regardless of citizens’ official status, social position, religion, wealth or political creed, they are all subject to the law. This acts as one major goal for justice in America.The court ensures same law enforcement upon the powerless and the powerful. Due to this reason the courts and the law are said to be the fundamental guardians of equality life in United States. What is more important with American Judicial system is that, once an individual is accused of crime, he or she is regarded as to be innocent until when he is proved guilty in the courtroom. This implies that, the burden of proof is left to the prosecutor, the accused victim requires not prove his or her innocence (Young, 54). Once a person has been accused in law violation, the law insists that such an individual be tried by a jury.These juries are made up of just ordinary citizens who are chosen to serve temporarily in court to listen to the evidences in case where by they decide whether the accused is innocent or guilty. They are not official government. In United States, judiciary is a quite separate branch of government. Besides the fact that judicial system is subject to the same types of balances and checks as for the case in legislative and executive branches, it is not controlled by either of them it implies that, courts are not in any way influenced by the executive and legislative in their duties.Their courts are perceived to play an important role in their acti vities to shape the public policy. They are seen to provide judicial legal interpretations for both civil law and criminal law. More so, they shape legal policy through appeals and trials (Harper 1998). After adoption of the constitution in 1989, the federal and state courts have used the power in declaring an action at the executive branch or legislature as unconstitutional thus making them null and void. Generally, the American courts are no only important because of justice administration but also due to shaping public policy.According to many people it is perceived that American justice is very slow. Yes it is true that the dockets of court are very full but all these aims at fairness in justice. The judicial system of America is an integral system where by the people’s rights are protected against government interferences. Due to judicial system body being set as an independent body, it is true that justice is being administered in light of the court room work groups and assembly line justice.According to the citizens, this is a very good thing because there is no difference between poor and rich in the law administration. References Young, E. (2005). Institutional Settlement in a Globalizing Judicial System. Duke Law Journal 54. Harper J, (1998 June 7). Collections: Judicial Watch Keeps Stern Watch on Court’s System, Clinton. Religious Studies, Philosophy, History, Psychology, and Library. Vaughan, B. (2003). The Evolution of Louisiana's Judicial System. From Chaos to Continuity. 69, 1712-1862.

Concrete Experience Essay

As an engineer of a pharmaceutical company, I directly report to my supervisor on a daily basis. I am very diligent with my work and I see to it that I perform at my best. I followed the orders of my supervisor and I work hard to meet deadlines. However, there is always a point in time where I realized the lack of efforts in the part of my supervisor. Sometimes, it has become a routine basis to be given a task, work on it, finished it with expected quality then reports to the supervisor on the job done. I sometimes ask, where his effort sets in the picture does, I have nothing against him personally, but having to question such setup can be regarded as my simple dilemma. It is very true that a working relationship among employees and supervisors, there will always be disputes or misunderstandings among them. Such causes of conflicts can come mostly from the side of the supervisor, such as failing to set clear expectations or to reinforce them regularly, letting the problems which they are aware of fester before having to address them, failure to communicate with people with problems, failure to recognize the importance of due process, taking some matters personally, or moving too quickly toward formal action, having to discriminate difficult or troublesome people, having to wait too long before getting professional help, being unwilling to see s resolution forma problem, worrying too much or reflective organization. These can be too general, but the happening of any of those critical causes may lead to serious working relationship problems, so before getting any matter to its worst, one of the parties can take the initiative to patch things up, or to start discussing with each other in order for compromise to take place. Reflective Observation It never occurred to me that this person was doing something different than I was and, as a result, had a better relationship with the supervisor.   And it certainly never occurred to me to ask him what he did to have such a great rapport with the group.   But both parties had stereotyped the other and were unwilling to change their opinions. Since other people and groups managed to have good relations with others, we could hardly be justified in thinking that they were totally in the wrong. This supervisor was more focused upon tasks than people so they never worried about the personal cost of the conflict, and probably did not know how to resolve the problem. Even though the supervisor knew about the problem, they did not intervene, perhaps because the work always got done somehow.   (Schein, 1996) Abstract Conceptualization Conflict can be regarded, abstractly, as neither wrong nor right and bad nor good. The meaning of conflict is recognized by its participants given that people who add value on its meaning. The vital results of a situation of conflict are dogged by the beliefs, values and feelings, of those who are involved. The real determinants are the people of the meaning of conflict. As humans though, and it is almost impossible for us to divorce ourselves of feelings, beliefs, and values. People create, or get involved in, conflict, and all possess predispositions as to how it ought to be addressed or handled. There is the tendency to have a strong behavioral leaning, a set pattern, for participation, and this emerges as a major factor in setting the nature of conflict. (Peppers, 1976) Active Experimentation   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   If I do not have control over other people but if I act appropriately, I will have a much better chance of getting the cooperation I desire.   What is positive about having negative experiences is that hopefully I learn from them.   If sincerely worked with him and combined my weaknesses with his strengths and vice versa, I am sure that we would have been able to come up with better ideas, solutions, and programs that would have helped our company more. Another concept I must use in the future is how to combine different personalities in order to solve or create concepts or ideas that would be superior compared to those created only by a single personality type. For example, the production manager and I had extreme personalities. My mistake was that I am focusing on my strengths and perceived our differences as his weaknesses. In every way we try to put it, the result of conflict is probable to be dysfunctional. The decision of doing nothing is probably not the best. On the other hand, the supervisor involved must make have the determination. This can only be a decision function of the contingencies of the situation, a decision which can only be made by someone in the situation evaluating the forces and strengths involved. A unique method to resolve conflict is to increase interaction between conflicting groups by physically exchanging persons between conflicting groups.   The result should be better communications, greater understanding, and less future conflict. The supervisor must understand that there are times when the decision to do nothing may be best. (Peppers, 1976)   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The issue can also be solved through mediation, if ever the situation gets worst. Basically mediation is a confidential and a private process to resolve conflict, it can deliver the opportunity to better understand and recognize the perspectives of others and at the same time be able to develop skills in communication that can contribute to the ability of further undertaking issues related in the workplace. Such process can help people the within the organization to have clarity on matters which can be vague to some. Mediation can be very challenging, because both parties involved should bring up together their different point of views. Each party should have an open mind and the willingness to listen. The success of mediation will lead to building a new relationship which is for the good of all those involved. (Hall, 2001) Concrete Experience   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Way back in college, I have been an organization president; I was elected to lead my academic organization in all the internal and external activities. Being titled as the president may be elevating; it somehow gave me a boost in confidence and there is the fact that there are people who will be working under me, I have the authority to delegate tasks, and approve or reject new ideas. But being the president was not just having authority and the privilege to man how everything works in the organization, when it come to problems or difficulties, I am the one expected to arrive at a resolution. I am the first point person on everything that the organization does; therefore I am accountable in everything especially when we are encountering a lot of difficulties. One of the major challenges that I have to face was getting my organization as one; there comes a point where my co-officers seem to be unmotivated. They do not have the same level of perseverance or drive that I have. They do what I say, but they are lacking enthusiasm and eagerness to do specific tasks. This was hard for me because I do not want to be demanding, but their passiveness provokes me to be a little hard to them. I usually think if only I am a superhero, then I would do the entire job and not ask help from them, but reality is, I am just a leader who needed the help of my co-leaders. There was a certain point where I had been tired to act, but the sense of accountability pushed me to initiate and had my organization driven in order to perform at our very best. Reflective Observation   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Having to face such issue made me realized that I am different from them, and that I should not expect everyone to treat things the way I treat them. I may be motivated, but it is natural for some to be unmotivated. During my organization days, I have been joggling my time in order to still do well in my studies and be a responsible leader at the same time. It was hard, and I realized that my co-officers might have been experiencing the same dilemma; the only difference is that we have the different characters on how we deal with those. I have been struggling to get them all together and encourage them to speak out, then I realized that as the leader, I should have to act to have them motivated, to have them realized that I need, the organization needs them. Abstract Conceptualization The first resolution that came in my mind is motivation, comparing the organization in a business institution; there is a similarity of motivation issues in terms of co-officers and employees. A combination of energy and desire bound at fulfillment of a goal is a person’s motivation. In order to influence someone’s motivation calls to getting them to do what a leader know what needs to be done. According to the theory of motivation of Frederick Herzberg, there are various factors are involved to be able to instill motivation to the employees. Those factors may work as anticipated but may also fail because to resistance. (Herzberg, 1968) First are the KITA (â€Å"kick-in-the-ass†) factors, which are also connected with hygiene factors, such are extrinsic to the job. It consisted of administration, company policy, working environment or setting, security, supervision, compensation, and relationships with others. Meanwhile, the factors of motivation are job intrinsic, which comprised of the task itself, having achievement recognized, growth or advancement and conscientiousness. These factors are all interrelated with job dissatisfaction and job satisfaction. According to studies, the primary source of satisfaction is the motivators while what cause unhappiness in the job are the hygiene factors. (Herzberg, 1968) Having motivated co-leaders is a great aspect for an organization to be successful. Motivation compels them to act upon, do extremely well and give their 100 % percent. Active Experimentation Given that I am responsible for my organization, then I should have the initiative to set one foot forward, knowing that the issue is stemmed out from motivation, lack of motivation to be specific, then I must resort to ways on how to get my co-officers to be driven and motivated to carry out their tasks and duties, and that is what I did. Basically, I allowed the needs of my team to coincide with the needs of our organization. Rewarding is also an effective resort (Craig, 1996), simple acknowledgement to a job well done has boost their spirits and at the same time helping those who make mistakes or may need occasional help in order to achieve a specific goal. Another important thing is to set a good example, in my part, I have to stay motivated, I have to present an image of how a leader should be. Developing moral and team spirit is also very important. As a leader, I look out for my team, although I do not have control over their lives I should see to it that I empathize with them.   It is vary significant to allow them to be part of the planning and the processes in problem solving for this will help them develop, this will motivate them and will give them the interest in seeing a plan succeed, thus keeping them well informed is also important. Moreover is the importance of communication, leaders should see to it that a communication channel should always be open in order for everything to flow smoothly within the organization. It is also very vital to make each feel like an individual in a great team instead of a component in a lifeless machine. People call for evocative work, even if it is unpleasant and tiring; they need to be aware that it is necessary and important for the continued existence of the organization, (U.S. Army Handbook, 1973) hence there should be room for counseling wherein the members can voice out their opinions and where the leader listens and vice versa through which, the leaders and the subordinates can keep track with each other. Concrete Experience We are all working hard and striving for success, and in the courses of our careers, the fear of failure serves as pressure as we perform our work. Failure seems to be the dirtiest word in the society, I as an individual who works hard to be successful fears failure, I would rather be seen as hostile, overworked, odd rather than be seen as a failure. I think it is natural to have the fear of failure as we place tremendous stress on success. I think the fear of failure is probably the strongest power that holds us below our potentials. In our world, misfortunes can really happen this is why; I rather play safe most of the time. However, playing safe is a form of risk as well. Whenever I fail, I feel extremely bad, I felt that I am stubborn enough that I failed, maybe that is reason why I also developed my fear of failure. Because of such fear, our merit and ability are often underestimated, we then find it hard to recover and accept failure and some valuable opportunities are passed out. Reflective Observation Success and growing from it is not an easy experience. We can really get knocked as we persevere to succeed in our careers. The biggest drawback I have to deal with is fear of failure and I know that it can lead to terrible outcomes. What the fear of failure does is form an approach in opportunity which is overcautious. Being aware of when and how to make use of opportunity is essential to a successful career. Possessing understanding about the opportunity, I then need to find out timing. The pros and cons listed will help in making a decision. Fear of failure can also keep us from speaking up. It will cause us such hindrance to remain in silence and foregone the chance to stand out. Another major impact of this fear is missing out the point of professional and personal growth. If we really want to be successful, we should be prepared and grow with it. I know I should loses this fear of failure and be able to risk something which is important, in the long way ahead, I know I will be glad that I did. Abstract Conceptualization We can face the fear of failure by having an understanding of constructivism which is child-centered; it suggests that the environment of learning must shore up numerous perspectives or reality interpretations, construction of knowledge, richness of context, activities based experience. Constructivism concentrates on knowledge construction, and not on the knowledge reproduction. It is a conviction that from one’s experiences, mental structures, and beliefs that are used to interpret objects and events one constructs knowledge. The mind is influential and indispensable in understanding perspectives, events and objects on the basis that is individualistic and personal. Our outlook of the external world varies from others for the reason that we have our out set of unique experiences. (Dweck, 1999) Learning is influenced by the learner’s prior knowledge, learning goals and personality therefore it is an internal process. Constructivism illustrates the environment of the wherein knowledge and the creation of knowledge is inductive, collaborative and interactive, wherein manifold of perspectives are corresponded to, and where questions are appreciated (Goleman, 1997). The significance of context associated to learning and knowledge and â€Å"authentic activity† are given important emphasis. Active Experimentation Having the fear of failure should not be disregarded, it should be acted upon the soonest time possible, because having to endure such will make us stagnant and afraid to go beyond the norms, we will be stuck under the state of mediocrity, which we know is not good. The fear of failure had me bothered, but I told to myself that I should not lose in my game with it, I should overcome it. In order for me to lose my fear, I started thinking and considering the cost of missed opportunities if I pass on to them. Many careers out there entail a broad variety of opportunities therefore when opportunities came, I should be able to try my chances. I know that taking risk is very important and a greater reward is at stake. The issue of the fear of failure here is that without taking risks we cannot exploit opportunities. We can opt to live a rather simple, happy and peaceful life but we will be hindered to do something new and we then cannot make a difference in our world. The source of this fear is unknown I realized that when we do not know what are we dealing, the possible consequences can get worse. The fear should be understood, we should then have a holistic understanding of failure, its risks and benefits, by means of an analysis, and I can then get through my fear and further make a decision. It is also ideal to always put ourselves in the perspective of the worst-scenario. Making a plan of contingency is also a good strategy in order to reduce the downside and overcome the fear of failure. I should then manage the risk well and create a contingency plan so that I will be able to have a backup plan if ever the chances of failing are very high. An understanding of the benefits of failure also helps as each failure is like a trial in an experiment and an opportunity to growth, even if it can costs us a lot, there is an assurance that the benefits can outweigh the loss. (Jackson, 1993) Each failure is a trial in an experiment and an opportunity for growth. Even if a failure costs you financially, the educational benefits can far outweigh the loss. As I am determined to overcome this fear, taking action is the best way to start, though which I am certain to have a boost in confidence. I know everything is hard on the start, but it may be possible that with taking small steps, I can then build up my confidence and be able to manage the fear of failure. If there is a goal, but is afraid to commit, we should then force ourselves, the fear of failure disappears when we realize that it cannot save us. References    Applewhite, P. (1965).â€Å"Organzational Behavior†, Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey: Prentice-Hall. Buckingham, M. (2005). â€Å"Great Managers†, Harvard Business Review. Craig, Robert L. (1996). The ASTD Training and Development Handbook. New York: McGraw- Hill. Dweck, C. (1999). Self Tehories: Their Role in Motivation, Personality and Development. Philedelphia:Psychology Press. Goleman, D. (1997). Emotional Intelligence. Bantam Books. Hall, Jay. (2001). â€Å"Comminication Revisited†. California Management Review. Herzberg, F. (1968). One more time: How do you motivate employees?. Harvard Business Review. Jackson, T. (1993). When fear Seems Overwhelming: Finding Courage and Hope. RBC Ministries Rico, L. (1964).â€Å"Organizational Conflict: A Framework for Reappraisal,† Industrial Management Review, Fall. U.S. Army Handbook (1973). Military Leadership.