Personal Change Project Conditioning Health And Social Care Essay

I would wish to plan a self-modification program which is to advance a wont desirable to myself. I will implement Operant Conditioning and other rules of conditioning in this Personal Change Project.Walking the Dog Frequently and Regularly for a Longer period of TimeThe mark behavior I would wish to hike is walking the Canis familiaris for at least 45 proceedingss daily on the seashore near my house. The end of the present program was to prolong a good wellness since jogging is involved during the walk with the Canis familiaris. For case, ramble oning conditions the cardiovascular system, cut downing the opportunity of acquiring bosom disease. It besides helps in beef uping musculus and cut downing extra fat by firing Calories. In add-on, it can advance the relationship with the Canis familiaris as its proprietor. At the same clip, in order to take up the duty as a portion of the household members, walking the Canis familiaris on a regular basis is indispensable. Last, relaxation can be achieved by walking Canis familiaris along the seashore as the aesthetic position and nature of it can assist alleviating emphasis and sadness. A baseline appraisal was carried out predating the self-modification program. In the self-modification program, each clip the client walked the Canis familiaris for at least 45 proceedingss was counted as walking the Canis familiaris for one clip. No bound was placed on the clip she walked the dog each twenty-four hours.Baseline AssessmentIn the baseline appraisal of the mark behaviour before transporting out the self-modification program, the frequence and continuance of walking the Canis familiaris by the client was measured utilizing a timer. It lasted for 14 yearss from 5th September to 18th September. ( Table 1 ) The frequence which the client walked her Canis familiaris was 7 times in two hebdomads and the entire clip spent to walk the Canis familiaris in two hebdomads was 183 proceedingss and the mean clip spent on walking the Can is familiaris was 26 proceedingss in two hebdomads. Therefore, the existent continuance of clip for walking the Canis familiaris before the self-modification program was much less than the mark continuance of clip set in program ( 45 proceedingss ) . This was because the mark behaviour was normally hindered by different ancestors and effects ( to be mentioned in the following session ) Walking The Dog Date Yes NO 5th September 15 proceedingss 6th SeptemberTen7th September 28 proceedingss 8th SeptemberTen9th September 35 proceedingss tenth SeptemberTen11th September 25 proceedingss 12th SeptemberTen13th SeptemberTen14th September 40 proceedingss 15th SeptemberTen16th September 30 proceedingss 17th SeptemberTen18th September 10 proceedingss Entire Time of walking the Canis familiaris 183 proceedingss Average clip of walking the Canis familiaris 183 / 7 = 26 proceedingss Table 1 Frequency and Duration of walking the Canis familiaris from 5th Sept. to 18th Sept.Ancestors and ConsequencesHarmonizing to Weiyen ( 2007, pp.250-254 ) , ancestors are the preceding fortunes. Consequences are the effects or consequences of something happening earlier.Ancestors which limit my mark behaviorBefore implementing this self-modification program, there were ever several ancestors which restricts me from walking the Canis familiaris. First of wholly, it was non possible for me to walk the Canis familiaris during showery yearss as the Canis familiaris will acquire soiled and wet. In add-on, I normally felt so tired after school or work that I did non hold the energy to walk my Canis familiaris.Ancestors which reinforce my mark behaviorIt is ever free to walk my Canis familiaris along the seashore near my place as no transit cost is needed. In add-on, it merely takes me 5 proceedingss to entree the seashore, therefore it is really convenient to walk my pet.Consequences which limit my mark behaviorExerting my Canis familiaris normally makes me even more tired after school or work so this greatly influences my advancement of analyzing, and therefore impacting my public presentation on trials. Therefore, the fatigue from walking my Canis familiaris restricts me from making so.Consequences which reinforce my mark behaviorWalking my Canis familiaris can assist ease my bodily fittingness and keeping wellness. This is because I jog while walking my Canis familiaris and it helps to better my cardiovascular and respiratory system. Heart musculuss are strengthened and become more efficient during jogging. Besides, deeper breathe can be achieved to provide more O and foods to our musculuss, enabling us to be more energetic engaging in activities we enjoy. Besides, it is of import to keep a good relationship with my household and Canis familiaris via taking up my duty as a household member walking my Canis familiaris as wrangles sometimes arise due to this is sue. Furthermore, walking my Canis familiaris can assist cut downing emphasis and sadness from the heartache of interrupting up and analyzing.Behavioral Principles and SchemesOperant Conditioning was used as the major rule to increase the mark behaviour. It is a signifier of acquisition in which a response becomes more likely to happen in a peculiar stimulation state of affairs as a consequence of its effects. In this Conditioning, assorted types of supports and penalties were applied. Support occurs when an event following a response increases an being & A ; acirc ; ˆâ„ ¢s inclination to do that response. Punishment occurs when an event following a response weakens the inclination to do that response. Positive support was involved in the program. This is a response is strengthened as it is followed by the presentation of a rewarding stimulation. Therefore, a positive reinforcing stimulus was set that I could bask a tasty barbeque dinner with my close friends every 10 times I walked my Canis familiaris for at least 45 proceedingss. This was a rewarding stimulation for me as I love barbeque and I cherish the clip garnering with close friends. It was a secondary reinforcing stimulus as it acquired reenforcing belongingss through repeated association with primary reinforcing stimulus. Negative Reinforcement was besides applied. It occurs when a response is strengthened because it is followed by the remotion of an unpleasant stimulation. I late broke up with my fellow and it was a heart-breaking experience. Then I found that walking the Canis familiaris along the seashore and basking the aesthetic position of the nature can assist to alleviate the heartache. Therefore, I walk the Canis familiaris along the seashore more frequently. Therefore, the difficult feeling after interrupting up was the unpleasant stimulation and it was thought that walking Canis familiaris along the seashore can take this aversive stimulation, therefore walking the Canis familiaris along the seashore ( response ) is strengthened. Negative Punishment was used, which was to diminish the unwanted behavior by taking something pleasant. For every individual clip the client could non successfully walk her Canis familiaris for 45 proceedingss in a twenty-four hours, her female parent locked up my laptop for two yearss. Therefore, she needed to utilize the public computing machines in the library for a twosome of yearss if she did non walk the Canis familiaris and this one time brought her a immense incommodiousness. Hence, the usage of laptop at place is regarded as the pleasant event and the reluctance to walk the Canis familiaris is the unwanted behaviour.The EventualitiesAs for the Positive Reinforcement, a Fixed-ratio agenda of support was besides applied as the client could bask barbeque with friends every 10 times she walked the Canis familiaris. Therefore, the definition of fixed-ratio agenda is the positive reinforcing stimulus ( barbeque with friends ) is given after a fixed figure ( 10 times ) of non-reinf orced responses ( walking the Canis familiaris ) . In the Negative Reinforcement, Variable-schedule of support was used. The reinforcing stimulus ( the gradual alleviation of hurting after interrupting up ) was given after a variable figure of non-reinforced responses ( walking the Canis familiaris along the seashore ) . After the client walked the Canis familiaris along the seashore for a few times, she found that the heartache reduced a small spot and this was a reinforcing stimulus. Then this reinforcing stimulus strengthened the response inclination for walking the Canis familiaris as she believed this can alleviate hurting after interrupting up with fellow. As for the Negative Punishment, every clip the client did non walk her Canis familiaris for at least 45 proceedingss one time a twenty-four hours, her female parent locked up her laptop for two yearss. Inconvenience was brought to the client if she could non carry through the mark behaviour, as she could non utilize her laptop for two yearss ( usage of laptop is a pleasant stimulation ) , alternatively she could merely utilize the public computing machine outside.Consequence of the AssessmentThe self-modification program was set to complete in two hebdomads from 19th September to 2nd October after the baseline appraisal. ( Table 2 ) It can be seen that the response inclination of walking the Canis familiaris greatly strengthened after the program was implemented. The frequence of walking the Canis familiaris was 20 times which was about 3 times more than that of the baseline appraisal ( 7 times ) . The entire continuance of walking the Canis familiaris in two hebdomads was 1039 proce edingss, while the mean clip spent on walking the Canis familiaris was 52 proceedingss each clip, which is a dual compared to the consequence obtained in the baseline appraisal. Therefore, she was rewarded twice by holding barbeque dinners with her friends in these two hebdomads, as she achieved walking her Canis familiaris 20 times. Although the client failed to carry through the mark behaviour for one clip in these two hebdomads, it was due to the heavy work load from alterations and assignments. She was so experient negative penalty which she could non utilize her laptop for two yearss as her female parent locked it up. Walking the Canis familiaris Date Yes NO First Time on the day/ minute Second Time on the day/ minute 19th September 50 45 twentieth September 45 45 21st September 48 22nd September 55 48 23rd September 70 50 24th September 85 25th September 50 26th September Ten 27th September 45 50 28th September 50 50 29th September 45 47 thirtieth September 55 1st October 60 2nd October 46 Entire Time of walking the Canis familiaris 1039 Average Time of walking the Canis familiaris each clip 1039 / 20 =52 Table 2 Frequency and Duration of walking the Canis familiaris from 19th September to 2nd OctoberThe Strength, Weakness and Effectiveness of the Modification PlanThe self-modification program was seemingly effectual, which could be proved by the big difference in consequences shown in table 1 and table 2. The behaviour of the client was successfully modified to walk the Canis familiaris for at least 45 proceedingss one time a twenty-four hours. This was proved by the twofold continuance of walking the Canis familiaris each clip on norm ( 26 proceedingss in baseline appraisal and 52 proceedingss in the self-modification program ) and the frequence of walking the Canis familiaris was about tripled ( 7 times in baseline appraisal and 20 times in the self-modification program ) . This was chiefly due to the strengths of the program. Positive support was used in the program, in which the client was rewarded a barbeque dinner with her friends every 10 times she walked the Canis familiaris However,

Common College Diseases Essay

College students are young, lively and generally healthy individuals, but just like any population, they are prone tocertain health problems. Not only do college students have some of the worst eating, exercising and sleeping habits,they also have to deal with stress from school, relationships and job hunting that takes a major toll on their health.Here are the 8 most common college diseases: 1. Depression : Depression is a growing issue that even college campuses are dealing with more and more. An alarming 44 percent of college students reported feeling symptoms of depression during college andmany do not seek treatment for their mental illness. Depression can be brought on by a number of factors,including anxiety from school or work, the loss of a loved one, a troubled relationship and early childhoodtrauma. College students have a high risk of being depressed because their hormones are often out of whack and imbalanced at this age, and they face a great deal of pressures and obstacles while in schooland away from their parents. 2. Meningococcal Meningitis: Meningococcal meningitis is a rare but often deadly bacterial infection that isspread through air droplets and direct contact with infected persons. When the disease attacks, it will shutdown major organs and prevent blood flow to the limbs, often causing tissue to die and extremities to beamputated. From a national perspective, meningococcal meningitis is a rare disease that strikes fewer than 3,000 people every year. However, it tends to thrive on college students living in the dorms becauseof the close-quartered arrangements and their often weak immune systems. 3. Alcohol and Drug Addiction: Alcohol and drug abuse has, and continues to be, a health problem amongcollege students. College students have higher rates of alcohol and drug addiction than the rest of thepublic, with nearly 2.7 million full-time college students abusing drugs and alcohol at least once a month. As students relish in their newfound freedom, they are more likely to try drugs and alcohol with friends for the first time. Although alcohol is still the preferred drug of choice by most college students, there has alsobeen an increase in marijuana and prescription drug abuse. 4. Sexually Transmitted Diseasesc: With the increased amount of sexual activity and unprotected sexhappening in todays colleges, its no wonder why sexually transmitted diseases are rampant amongcollege students. An estimated 20 to 25 percent of college students have been infected or are carriers of STDs. Sexually active young adults have high rates of STDs because they do not use adequate protectionand often do not seek medical attention. Chlamydia, gonorrhea, herpes and HPV (Human Papillomavirus)are some of the most common STDs among college students. 5. Eating Disorders: Eating disorders continue to be a major concern among college students today. Inaddition to the classic eating disorders like anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa, there are a number of other eating disorders not otherwise specified (EDNOS) that have become more rampant in college, suchas caloric restriction, drastic weight loss, excessive exercise, binging and purging. Disordered eating iscommonplace in college, when students are eating on their own and trying to avoid gaining the â€Å"freshman15.† 6. Obesity: Eating disorders continue to garner attention in college, but many students are troubled by theother end of the spectrum  ± obesity. Today, more than 30 percent of college students are consideredobese or overweight by the American College Health Associations standards. A combination of unhealthydiets, limited physical activity and poor lifestyle choices has caused many college students to becomeobese or overweight. 7. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): We hear a great deal about the amount of studentsabusing Adderall and other psychostimulant medications in non-medical ways, but there is a growingnumber of college students being tested and diagnosed with ADHD, as well. The growing number of diagnoses can be attributed to several reasons, including the pressures of college studies, poor academic

The Baddest Dog in Harlem

You’ll have to be tough to live in your American skin When we go to school or to our jobs we don’t have many worries. The worries we could have could be â€Å"Oh no, there’s a test today† or â€Å"Oh no, my boss wants me to do some paperwork† but what if we had to live in fear instead of worries? If in the morning we should fear to go to school or job because of the place we are living in, that we had to say properly goodbye to your family every day, what would that do to us? †The Baddest Dog in Harlem† is writen by Walter Dean Myers and it is a fictional short story.The short story takes place in Harlem, at 145th street[1]. It could be in a year not far from the present, because of the technology used in the short story, such as cars[2] and automatic weapons[3] and it’s in the middle of the day. The neighborhood seems rough and seems like a place where you have seen the police often[4] and it seems like people are bored and doesn ’t have many money or jobs[5]. The narrator and his friends are sitting at the rail outside Big Joe’s and talks about who’s the best fighter in the world. The conversation got heated up when Willie Murphy participate in the debate.He is that kind of guy who always thinks he is right just because he is older than the others and when the narrator doesn’t think it can get worse Mr. Lynch, an even older man, joins the debate. Suddenly two polices cars are tearing around the corner. The stops in front of the boys and starts interrogate them and tell them to stay at the rail. Afterwards the cops start crunching behind their cars and look upon a window in the apartment at the other side of the street, pointing with their guns towards it. When the narrator realizes what is going on, he wanders off into a cafeteria nearby.A cop comes into the cafeteria and he says there have been a report about someone with an automatic weapon and tells everybody to drop down on t he floor. A cop trips and he guns goes off, all the cops start shooting and people are screaming and yelling. After a while the cops stops shooting and a girl who lives in the block turns up. The cops want her to go up to her apartment but she wants a black man with her and therefore a cop pulls the narrator with them. In her apartment everything is ruined and her dog is dead. The cops go to the apartment next door but come out in a hurry.The narrator walks into the apartment and sees a boy lying on the bed shot and dead. The narrator is in first person and seems reliable and is also the main character in the short story. We only get to know about the narrators thoughts and feelings but we don’t hear much about them either, his personality is described by his thoughts and actions. The characters in the short story are not described only a little bit about Mr. Lynch and Willie but beside those two, are the character based upon their actions and sayings.The narrator is a black man, because he refers to the black cop as a â€Å"brother†, we don’t know his age or his name but by based on the story I will approximately guess he is in his twenties. Willie is older than the narrator and is in his thirties[6] but the cop chose the narrator to go with Mary to her apartment[7] and therefore I don’t think he is a kid. The story is told in past tense and is chronological. When you read the short story you get a picture in you head of a ghetto and the language in the story is youthful and a bit slang[8].They also leave words out. You get connotations in your head and you think about American movies where you also see the youth talk in this way. The general tone is positive but also a bit cool and laid back. They don’t try to sound smarter or different either when they talk to the police. They talk â€Å"their† language, which make it seem like they are an unity. I think the theme the narrator tries to get through in this short stor y, is the tough life there is in the ghetto. The boy who got shot in the ghetto was just watching television but he wasn’t safe anyway.It’s a harsh environment to live in, an environment where you can be in constant fear of being robbed or shot. The song â€Å"American Skin (41 shots)† by Bruce Springsteen also gives a good perspective of how it is in America. He sings â€Å"No secret my friend, you can get killed just for living in, your American Skin[9]† The ssimilarities in the two texts is the theme. They are both trying to show how the world is every day for some people in America and to have an influence on us, make us think about those who aren’t as fortunate as we are and how we should ppreciate our way of living. I really think the short story and the song as well gives you something to think about. I believe the environment the narrator lives in makes him tough. When you’re living in a ghetto or an environment which is rough, youâ €™ll have to be tough even though you on the inside is falling apart. And I think that’s what the narrator goes through. They are used to guns and crime, therefore are they not so afraid of the police and the situation and also the kids have it like this. But when the narrator sees the boy, he doesn’t want to speak about it. The Baddest Dog in Harlem The owner Of the apartment (Mary) that just got shot up, returns home and begins a debate with the police who are interested in the whereabouts of her boyfriend. Eventually Mary, some cops and the narrator goes together into her apartment. The police suspect is not there, but the place is completely shot up and on the floor Marry dog lays dead from multiple bullet wounds. On the way back down from Marry apartment again, the police take notice of another apartment door and they inspect that apartment also, where they find the body of a young black boy ho has also been shot and killed -? an innocent victim of the earlier police gunfire.Characterization of characters: The main character in the text is the narrator. He is certainly a black man. Do not know for certain the name of the narrator, but it is easy to assume that it may be the author Walter Dean Myers. Readers are not given much information of the about the central character in the text, but it becomes obvious that the main cha racter as well as the rest of his debating group are black people. The main character (Myers) seems to me like a very scared and nervous person. Point of view: The while story is presented with the narrator's eyes. It is a first person narrator.Title: The title ‘The baddies dog in Harlem† stems from Marry poor dog. When Mary, the police and the central character go up to check the apartment, they find the bullet-riddled dog that some policemen thought might have been their suspect (from jumping around in the window during the police gunfire). This leads one of the policemen to ironically say, â€Å"It is the baddies dog in Harlem. ‘ Settings: The setting takes place outside of a cafe or similar place called â€Å"Big Joey's Place†, on 45th Street in Harlem, LISA where the narrator, Willie, Pedro, Tommy, Mr.. Lynch and the others are initially sitting and talking.Harlem, a poor area of Manhattan, is the home to many thousands of black people. Harlem goes und er the term â€Å"Ghetto†. Many people living there do not have jobs, and they live in big, run-down apartment buildings with dilapidated apartments. Harlem is known as a poor slum area, full of gangs and crime. The setting of Harlem is used in this text to help demonstrate how an ordinary day can change in an instant and turn a peaceful conversation teen friends to a police ‘War zone' with shooting all over the place. Tone: The text is written in spoken language, and there are many contraction whispered words.Many words are purposely MIS-spelled to show how they should be pronounced. The narrator's Way to write the story reflects the Way he pronounces the words and he has written the story in a way that you should be able to see themselves within the situation he describes. In this way he made use of different tones of voice and criticism, among other things. He also uses emotions such as humor and compassion. It all fits however, with how the story changes and how he has written the story. Themes: The theme of the text could be meant to demonstrate the (stereotypical) racism, between police and black people.For example, the police asked them to stay where they are outside on the street, instead of helping them to get to a safe place. The text is written down as it has been said, and the tone is very hard when the police talk to the blacks. For example, when they talk to Mary. Another example also, is how they react about having shot Mar's dog. The police only make jokes of it. They seem not so affected that they had shot the little boy, perhaps only thinking they need to find a cover up story about his death. I think that they would have reacted differently if it was a white boy in a better, safer environment.I would say that the author here shows a good example of how a typical â€Å"ghetto† in USA is, and how the police can discriminate against some people. Message: think the writer is trying to tell us that it is tragic but true that b lack men live in a very different risk level than white people. Police in the United States eve easily and quickly are pulling weapons if they do not feel safe – especially when they are in slum neighborhoods like Harlem. Think the narrator is trying to get us to look reality in the eye and he wants us to understand that life is not easy for anyone.Parallels between â€Å"The baddies dog in Harlem† and the song text â€Å"American Skin (41 shots)† by Bruce Springiness: The comparison between the two stories is that they are both talking about how terrible reality can be for African Americans. The song â€Å"American Skin† tells the story of an African American mother, who tells her son to be careful and how he should always e polite to the police he must never do anything to provoke them, because there is the risk that the police may shoot them, as they are African Americans and because they may live in a poor environment.In the text, â€Å"The baddies d og in Harlem† we read about how the police treated the blacks in Harlem, They have no respect for them, but in return they must have respect for the police. Generally, they both warn about how black Americans must be much more careful when around the police. Conclusion: After reading the two texts, was surprised how such things are not just appending in the texts, but also in reality. It is distressing how in some places in the United States, the lives of black people is at risk from the police do to the fact that they look different.

Topic will be included in my attachments Research Paper

Topic will be included in my attachments - Research Paper Example The rise of China has raised effect on the core interest of India. Delhi has started inclining towards the US in the Asian policy articulation. While Washington and Delhi are not allied in the conventional sense, the pressures between them in coordination their Asian strategies are believed to mount amidst the assertive rise of China (Sood, 28 Feb. 2015). During early 1960s, there was a tilt between United States and India the conflict between Sino and India. The relationship continued until recently when there was a slight foundation from the emrging triangular relationship between the three countries. Basically, the better part of the cold war, the triangular relationship between Delhi, Beijing, and Moscow that possessed a greater share for the power balanced in south Asia. This continued until George W. Bush entered power especially during his second term that started in 2005 and ended in 2009. Indeed, Washington factored India its plans about China (Sood, 28 Feb. 2015). The interlocutors of India and Bush were extra-careful not to parade their relations based on the opposition that it has against China. The surprising warmth of Bush to India was his desire to invest huge political fund in order to transform their relationship. Additionally his controversial stance in facilitating the trade of nuclear energy with India, were hugely taken to make India one of the counterweight to make China rise. The official proclamations to this decision were not documented, therefore, a senior architect of US’ Indian policy later revealed the core of the Chinese factor. The president advocates his transformation of the relation between US and India on the main strategic principle of a sovereign India as a crucial factor in balancing the power of the Chinese. George Bush made it clear that the whole issue was not based on containing China. Nevertheless, the senior architect said that without the influence of China at the administration of Bush there

Carter's Way of Knowing Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Carter's Way of Knowing - Research Paper Example Ways of knowing are most apparent in situations where western notions regarding the attainment of information and knowledge comes into close contact and interaction with indigenous ways of knowing. Differences in the approaches that these two apply makes it possible to discern the significance of ways of knowing and its impacts on what is believed to be true in various societies around the world. This paper seeks to identify and discuss the theoretical basis of the conceptual theoretical framework of Carter’s Way of Knowing. Each discipline has a recognized body of knowledge that is specific to that particular subject and its content with regard to its domain or area of study. In each discipline, there is the aspect of knowing or being informed about the subject matter of interest, and this is what is referred to as conceptual knowledge or having the know-how about a particular discipline. According to Carter (2007), this is what is referred to as active ways of knowing or pro cedural knowledge that is related to the discipline of interest. Carter (2007) postulates that the notion of disciplinary ways of doing things is linked to the discipline-specific ways of knowing and the concomitant skills of writing within and across disciplines. Carter calls this bridging the outside/in gap and this can be contextualized by analysing relationships in ways of knowing. The relationship among knowing, writing and doing that is veiled by the disciplinary focus on conceptual knowledge (Munhall, 2011). The middle term that links writing and knowing is doing in the disciplines, which makes it challenging to reframe these disciplines as ways of knowing, writing and doing (Bonis, 2009). To achieve this entails finding a means of describing these aspects in convincing terms with regard to the ways of doing that characterize these disciplines. Research studies have indicated that to know and be able to do through the use of outcome based statements, there emerges certain way s of doing that are repeated in general terms across a variety of disciplines. Examples of these outcome-based statements are illustrated in response to academic learning situations that call for problem solving, performance, research, and for empirical inquiry (Munhall, 2011). Evidence from research has also established that despite similarities in ways of knowing across disciplines, there exist significant differences that enable the identification of discipline-specific ways of knowing. This revelation was achieved by analysing the different types of written activities that test participants’ produced as a requirement for the study. Ways of knowing in nursing offers a guidance and direction to holistic ad well rounded research, education and practice for health care givers (Bonis, 2009). According to Munhall (2011), Carter’s ways of knowing can be applied in nursing research from diverse epistemological perspectives that enhance the appropriateness and effectiveness of evidence based practice. Carter’s ways of knowing get their significance when they are applied to hope research with regard to grieved palliative health care givers with the ultimate objective of promoting positive outcomes and health (Meleis, 2011). Bereaved health care givers involved with palliative patients are characterized by having unmet necessities that

Walmart Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Walmart - Research Paper Example A progress in economy is achieved only when there is an uninterrupted production and consumption force. The growing population has made sure that the latter is always satisfied. It is the productivity that has a volatile quality attached to it. Productivity is one major force that can push the economic prosperity of any country, provided the workers and producers work towards the development of quality and cost-effective products. In the current scenario, with economic exploitation and commercialization spreading across at a rapid rate, there is an opportunity for everyone to compete in an equal environment. To be on top of such an environment, for more than three decades, it must take a great deal of effort and commitment. In this case, all those terms that define and celebrate success can only be associated with Wal-Mart, the world’s leading super-market. Be it in pricing of the products, implementation of latest technology to manage inventories or in customer satisfaction, Wal-Mart has always succeeded in achieving the best. The have become the largest employer in private category and have an outstanding record of having 8 out of every 10 Americans to be their customers. It has always been the case where they set the benchmark for the successful running of a private organization, and always, other competitors have followed their footsteps. Wal-Mart – How it began It all started, when a small time business man, Sam Walton, decided to start an innovative grocery store, innovative not by its design but by the principal of its working. When every other grocery store owner was trying to pocket the maximum discount got from supplier’s end, Walton decided to give it to the consumer itself. The principle behind that being, less price means less profit and more sales but, more sales guarantees a consistent profit. It was an instant success and riding on it, Walton went on to open Wal-Mart, his first of the many grocery stores, in the year 1962. ( Frank, 2011) Strategies of Wal-Mart Living a very modest life, Sam Walton was extremely frugal in his expenses. His mode of living helped him to focus on the principle of selling quality goods at low cost so that people get benefitted for each of their shillings they spend. The company still continues to work on this principle and continues to reap success. (Frank, 2011) The strategies of the organization are based on the motives given below: To be on top of the retail market ladder in each of their branch location By expanding the size of each store and selling every product at a cost comparatively lower to their competitors and by expanding their volume of sales, they have managed to achieve being a top company in retail market. To have a global expansion They have sustained their dominance by expanding globally. They have also spread their bases in eastern countries like China and India and have also made efforts to open outlets in developing countries. As a proof of their global expansion, they have about 2 million employees working in the organization, with 27 brands of Wal-Mart products and around 8000 retail outlets spread out in 15 countries. In 2009 alone, they have spent more than 4 billion to expand their outlets. (Densley, 2010) To improve customer satisfaction by developing a sense of trust about Wal-Mart They aim to achieve supreme quality with the products they sell through their brand name and provide the same at the lowest price possible. To improve the satisfaction of the customers, Wal-Mart has even made partnerships with other businesses like the food stores (e.g. McDonalds) and hang-out stores to allow them to keep a branch within their outlet. This helped the customers to have a feel of a complete and happy shopping experience. To expand business in other commercial product sectors. In the recent years, Wal-Mart has successfully ventured into new sectors like the pharmacy market, auto-markets, electronic products etc. They have maintained their

Foster Adoption Agency Research Proposal Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Foster Adoption Agency - Research Proposal Example The intention of starting the organization was to offer a coordinating body that would link the needy children to the adopting firms or the personalities. Concerning the organization’s qualification to handle the work, the founder has relevant educational qualification and experience in child protection. In addition, the management staff consists of people with impeccable knowledge and dedication to serve the purpose. Therefore, they are at a position to carry out the activities relating to adoption more effectively. The founder of the organization together with other co-founders noticed that there was a vacuum between the needy children and the firms and personalities adopting children. Thus, the decision to start the organization was based on the desire to fill this vacuum, and offer the necessary vacuum to those seeking such services. However, due to financial limitations, the company opted to request for grant from California Community Foundation, to facilitate its activities. The founder had contributed $ 6,000, received grants amounting to $ 2,000 from the government. Therefore, in order to fill the budget deficit, the organization has requested $ 12, 000 from California Community Foundation, which was started with the sole objective of enhancing development for the whole community. Foster Adoption Agency is an organization that will be managed by experts in child health, and those who are knowledgeable in laws governing child protection. The founder has a Master’s Degree in child rights and protection, thus best placed to mange such a sensitive organization. Moreover, the people to manage the task of child transfers and coordinate the activities of the organization have proved that they have passion for children and would do everything to make sure that they are safe wherever they are taken (Zimmerman, 1994). Sometimes, the organization would request the involvement of the

5. Strategic management- evaluation of the article Coursework

5. Strategic management- evaluation of the article - Coursework Example Coordination of individual can be done effectively over several miles; geographic locations are not a limitation. In Miguel’s et al. European Management Journal, (2011), hierarchy is often used as a structure to achieve deployment and success in strategy. The following part of the essay will analyse strategic processes and how they succeed under hierarchy organization. Also of major concern will be the strategies in organizations and how they may be explained and implemented through various strategy theories. In the essay there will also include an evaluation criteria by means of auditing. It will majorly explore on management issues of hierarchical systems. In several areas where many people are involved in accomplishing a specific task, people find a way of coordinating what they are doing in their parts in order to mutually achieve optimum goals. There are various hierarchy theories under strategy management that bring out the most out of activities done. Among the most common theories that explain coordination are the cognitive hierarchy theory, social projection theory and the theory of team explanation. Schelling (1960) showed how decisions made by humans are undeniable hinged on coordinative actions and expectations of other people’s actions. A brief explanation of the hierarchical theories explains how the theories are related to the organization system and how they may be used to influence actions taken for better strategy execution. The cognitive hierarchy theory was proposed first in the years 1945 and 1946. This theory was built to make individuals who have varying reasoning levels to coordinate and move at a higher regulated pace. Team reasoning, on the other hand, is a theory that utilizes the motivation of individuals working on a goal. In the circumstances where individuals are motivated, there is maximized standard effort that raises each individual’s expectations. In such collaboration, decision making is

History of Theatre Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

History of Theatre - Research Paper Example The spectacle is the inclusion of effects such as costumes, scenery and everything else to do with the fact that a player has a visual element and is watched and not just heard. (Bryson) Aristotle quells such questions and explains that music creates and enhances the mood that compliments the emotion being depicted by the characters in the play. Music’s major function in a play is to reinforce the emotional content (Aaron). Music has been forever championed as an effective mode of communication. (Lipscomb and Tolchinsky)Even when played in the background when at many times one doesn’t even notice that a melody is being played, music is still effective in setting the mood and creating an environment that compliments the theme of the play. Music at times has also been called the ‘fourth dimension’ that magnifies the impact of a particular scene or setting within the play (Drama Music). The famous novelist Victor Hugo stated that music can be used to put across thoughts and emotions which need to be expressed but there are no words to describe them. Also mentionable is the fact that audiences, once they leave the theatre, do not remember the dialogues but can definitely recall the songs and re-live the entire play through the songs and melody recollection in their minds (Mackintosh). All evidence supp orts Aristotle views that ‘music is a form of imitation’ and that different types and tones of music can easily help and elicit different types of responses from individuals. It has been suggested that theatre and drama fell into total crumble during the early 17th century. In the late 16th century, renaissance drama evolved during the period of Queen Elizabeth 1. During this time, neoclassicism was almost completely ignored. The  drama focused more on forms that were popular with the audiences.

Final Marketing Plan Presentation Essay Example for Free

Final Marketing Plan Presentation Essay The Allstate Corporation is the largest publicly held personal lines property and casualty insurer in America. Allstate provides insurance products to approximately 16 million households. Allstate was founded in 1931 and became a publicly traded company in 1993. Listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the trading symbol ALL and widely known through the â€Å"You’re In Good Hands With Allstate ®Ã¢â‚¬  slogan. (Suite 101, 2013). Being such a large provider of consumer protection takes hard work and dedication from every individual in the company to provide consumers with the highest level of customer service. While Allstate was trying unsuccessfully to diversify, rivals were revolutionizing the auto insurance business, which Allstate still counts on for most of its sales. Auto premiums generated 55% of its $31.4 billion in revenue last year.Geico and Progressive Corp. found a new formula for growth in the relatively mature business. They crafted a lower-cost model combining direct sales over the Internet and telephone with heavy television advertising. Offering lower prices and more convenience, they grew rapidly at the expense of Allstate and other insurers that sell mostly through agents.Allstates second-place share of the auto insurance market fell to 10.4% from 11.3% over the past five years, while Chevy Chase, Md.-based Geico jumped two points to 8.7% and Progressive climbed to 7.9 %( Suite 101, 2013). State Farm Insurance the largest car and home insurer in the U.S. and a mutual company owned by its policyholders consistently rated better for claims handling and service than Allstate. The claims department of Allstate has some of the most critical interaction with the consumers because it is during a time of need. Consumers contact the claims department when they have suffered a loss to establish a claim. The claims adjuster has the responsibility of obtaining claim pertinent information from the consumer to effectively evaluate the loss. At Allstate Insurance claims departments are separated according to customer needs. Large claims offices known as Market Claim Offices, MCO, are strategically located to provide adequate coverage across the nation. A Market Claim Office presides over a few states or an individual state depending on claim volume and consumer coverage. Allstate has specialized offices that handle claims for the entire nation but only if they meet certain criteria. The Hudson Express Office out of Hudson, Ohio is an office with a focus on handling claims with a reduced cycle time or the  time from claim submission to claim settlement. A starting to examine the external factors impacting customer expectations, which may or may not be off-kilter with necessary protocols and the terms of coverage insurance in general, is the medias unflattering portrayal of the industry; especially in light of post Katrina claim controversies and litigation. Aside from merely being a nuisance, the media also contribute to customer apprehension, which invariably affects the entire claim experience, starting with the initial exchange. Customer leeriness combated, comfort level enhanced easily by treating the customer and the claim with care and speed. To meet this reduced cycle time the Hudson Express Office only handles smaller claims with a total loss under $10,000. Everything within the Hudson Express Office is completely in house with no need for outside adjusters. A challenge area that arises because there are no outside adjusters is to efficiently write an estimate for structure damages and example of this comes from a customer’s review: (Five Weeks and Still Waiting, Jan 18 2013)†. I was broadsided by a driver who didnt stop at a stop sign at a 4 way intersection. My car was left un-drivable. She didnt have her insurance card with her. After a lot of investigating I found out who her insurance company was and called them myself. They told me an adjuster would be out to look at my car. No one showed up. I have called every day since. I have been told that as soon as they receive the police report and accept liability, they will put me in a rental car. It has been almost 5 weeks!† Description of the new product of service Allstate aims to compete more effectively with Geico and Progressive on their turf. After a successful four state pilot of the new Claim Satisfaction Guarantee for auto insurance across the country. Will Shorten claim cycle time ultimately results in higher customer satisfaction because the consumer can resume life as usual sooner rather than later. Allstate Insurance has implemented a new web-based customer service center to in able consumers to provide claim pertinent information via their computer through the use of the customer website. Consumers are able to enter file notes into the claim as well as submit a list of stolen or damaged items through the customer website that can be instantly attached to the claim. An opportunity area for decreased cycle time is with regard to property estimates. An in house  estimating system is utilized by inside adjusters to create a preliminary damage estimate. For smaller less complicated damage areas a web based estimating system would allow consumers to generate their own estimates. A simple web page can include multiple selections for damage areas including fences, doors, and windows. Once a damage area has been selected, multiple choice questions would allow consumers to describe the damaged area as well as the style and material the damaged area. If a consumer does not know the material or style, a default or average style and material would allow an initial estimate to be completed. Once the consumer receives an estimate or invoice from a contractor to complete the work, the claims department can review it for validity and issue any supplemental damages incurred. On simple claims, a consumer could file and settle a claim online without waiting for a call from a claims department representative significantly decreasing claim cycle time. SWOT Analysis The idea of developing a page on an insurance claim and being able to submit your complaint and receiving an instant response sounds great; Allstate needs to ensure that claims are being handled in a way in which will not create the webpage to become overloaded, it has to be user friendly and appropriate for any age group .Other considerations include the cost effectives of this type of service and how it will benefit the consumer and profitably for the brand.New automation also lists the opportunity in cost saving measures such as employee down sizing. Other key item to consider when marketing this type of service can be Advertisement on social media, newspapers,word of mouth, Blogs etc†¦ which are all great ways of promoting the new product and it also provides an opportunity to identify other forms of the same productoffered by the competitor. Target market including geographic Target market is middle market emerging affluent and mass affluent consumers with retirement and family financial protection needs. Priority status at the network repair shops and with our Service Centers. saving time and effort by having Allstate manage the entire repair process. Using the online system with real time updates to electronically monitor your vehicle at the repair shop. Progression updates are given on repairs so you can  spend time doing other things. working to minimize the repair time, which means a quicker reunion with your car. Quality factors including the quality of repairs, Guaranteeing repairs for as long as you own or lease the vehicle is one market point. If a policyholder has a burning question about a claim at 2 a.m., they are able log in to the online service site at any time to check the status of the claim. Porters five competitive forces model Allstates Consumer Segmentation Strategy When purchasing insurance or any other product or service, consumers have more choices than ever before and they know it. But decision making power is not in the customers hands alone. A company can build tremendous customer loyalty over time by making it a top priority to understand and meet its customers needs. As a result, Allstate will continue to refine its product offerings, marketing outreach and customer service based on careful research. Allstate serves four different consumer segments with distinct interaction preferences (advice and assistance versus self-directed) and brand preferences (brand-neutral versus brand-sensitive). Marketing research is an approach conducted to evaluate particular strategies.As well as the tactics used toward the web-based estimating system. The marketing research will help to connect with the consumers to analyze what is needed to research opportunities and evaluate marketing actions. This will also help to prevent uncertainties for the new service provided. The market research will allow the chance to determine how well the system is working. The competitive intelligence will help to identify what competitors are doing and how Allstate can differentiate service to gain customer loyalty. Marketing research will aid in developing a strategy that will increase the satisfaction of our new product of service. Allstate is working to provide quality service and conveniences. Therefore, the quantitative research will touch base on many incentives needed to process the claims. Other approaches will involve the act of identifying any other areas of concern. In which could relate to technical issues and a collection of data needed to estimate totals. The marketing research approach described will enhance the quality and promotion for Allstate’s new web-based system. The overall marketing plan should ensure the quality of each area of the  product and should provide the opportunity for clients to get on the site with hassle free problems and get the service that each individual needs. The mission should be to provide the best customer services and to ensure that the client gets what is needed in the end. Positioning statement Our Shared Vision provides the â€Å"why, how and what† behind everything we do at Allstate. It provides the road map for our continued success. Through this vision, we will truly put the customer at the center of everything we do (Allstate, 2013). We will become an even more valuable company to our customers, associates, investors, our communities and society a company with strong earnings potential and financial performance that sets the benchmark for our industry. We are the Good Hands: We help customers realize their hopes and dreams by providing the best products and services to protect them from lifes uncertainties and prepare them for the future. Deliver substantially more value than the competition by reinventing protection and retirement to improve customers lives. Put the customer at the center of all our actions. Utilize consumer insights, data and technology to serve customers and generate growth and attractive economic returns. Take an enterprise view of our people and processes and work as a single team to advance Allstate rather than our individual interests. Strategy and Position Description An automated online estimating system needs to be easy to understand and easy to use. The first element to the estimating tool is it needs to be easy to understand as well as aesthetically pleasing. When a customer logs on to his or her internet profile the option to choose an action needs to include selecting an existing claim on the insurance policy. Once the claim has been chosen, there will be a selection for estimating system. When the estimating system is chosen, the customer will be prompted regarding the damages he or she has sustained. For example, a customer was a victim of a recent theft loss where the front door was kicked in. The customer will select the damage option for entry door which will lead to a chain of questions regarding the  door. Options for the door will include material in which the door is made such as wood, metal, or fiberglass and whether or not the door is painted. Next, the customer will indicate the size of the door, if the customer does not know how to measure a door there will be a help icon that will advise the proper ways to measure a door. Style is another important factor in the cost of entry doors, options such as flush, panel, French, or security are the most common doors available. The next area of focus will include the damage sustained, whether the door, frame, or both are damaged will determine the proper repairs. The last area of concern for an initial estimate is whether the hardware is damaged and what type of hardware the customer currently has. When all of the information has been entered the estimating system will automatically construct an estimate for the removal and replacement of damaged property as well as the disposal of any debris. When the estimate is finished a disclaimer will be needed to inform the customer that the estimate is only a preliminary estimate and if any discrepancies arise when a contractor has seen the damage to inform the claims department for a review of the estimate. Since claims are being filed online, the movement on this is a little quicker. First of all, it reaches the company faster. The need to have the customer come in and get the information then in-putting it into the computer and have it looked at by the investigating agent, then processed, prepared for payment (if need be). Instead, you are cutting out the getting information process, and the inputting it into the computer by the agent. Instead you call or go online and put the information yourself and then let it get processed and then get paid. The affect it has on the movement is that it gets through quicker, you get faster response time from the company, and you get as accurate information as possible. The life cycle in a sense lasts shorter. Instead of taking a few weeks (possibly), it could take up to a week or less. So the life cycle in this case is a shorter one, which is good much better for the company overall. The only downside to this is that even though you get pretty accurate information, you then need to process it into insurance terminology so to speak, in which case you have an agent process the information. It’s also a good thing, because the agent is proof reading it so to speak to make sure that the information posted or given is  correct, and is process correctly, and is given to the proper division within the company. It’s sort of a backup plan and a much needed help for the customer who really has little to no knowledge on how insurance claims work. So overall, it is a faster and easier process which is set up to help the customer, and speed up the process to get claims paid quicker. Over time, while it does become easier, eventually other companies will begin to do this as well, and people will switch to whoever is cheaper. Service Packaging Packaging is not needed for our products or services. Instead we are offering our customers an easier way to file insurance claims. Normally a client would have to call in to the hot line number in order to file a claim. Once the operator answers then the client is expected to listen to numerous options and select which one applies to their personal needs at that moment. This process can be time consuming and aggravating depending on how many clients the customer service representatives the operators are assisting. The next step would be to explain the situation to the operator and wait for them to file the claim for the person. The on line website will be a fast working, easy to navigate website. There is nothing more aggravating then trying to complete information on a website that is slow and takes a long time to accept information. With technological advances, being able to file on line may be more convenient for those who do not have time to call the hot line and file claims. Clients will be able to access the website from laptops, cell phones, iPad, or any other media devices that allow access to the internet. Add value because it will be less time consuming for customers, if a follow-up is needed then the information may be easier to retrieve due to the pre-online registration. With every question there will be a detailed explanation of what information is required for that particular question. The question and additional information will be explained thoroughly to customers without them having to wait on hold in the phone for long periods of time just to speak with a live operator. This will add value to the customers in three ways. The online website will save time. Allow customers to have a more hands-on experience with the editing of claim information. Product Life Cycle Over the lifecycle of a product, a companys differentiation and positioning strategy would need to change as the market, competitors, and product change. When we say that a product has a life cycle we assert four things; Products have a limited life, Product sales pass through district stages, each posing different challenges, opportunities and problems to the seller, Profits rise and fall at different stages of the product lifecycle, and Products require different marketing, financial, manufacturing, purchasing, and human resource strategies in each life cycle stages (Product Life Cycle | Stages and Limitations of Product Life Cycle (PLC), 2014, p. 1). Product life cycle (PLC) deals with the life of the product in the market with respect to business or commercial cost and sales measures (Product Life Cycle | Stages and Limitations of Product Life Cycle (PLC), 2014, p. 1). There are five stages of each product lifecycle: product development, introduction, growth, maturity, and declin e (Product Life Cycle | Stages and Limitations of Product Life Cycle (PLC), 2014, p. 1). During the introduction stage, Allstate will be launched into the market. Sales grow slowly in this time, and informative advertising is done (Dinesh Bakshi, n.d.). Many firms do not earn profits in this stage. There wouldnt be much price skimming because our product is not a new invention and does have competitors. Due to the amount of competitors in the insurance market, competitive pricing is used. Sales rapidly grow during the growth stage, so we use persuasive advertising to gain customers. Competition is stiff at times prices may be reduced to stay a top competitor. Even though competition may be stiff, firms start to earn more profits in this stage. Our sales increase slowly and the highest figures are reached during the maturity stage of the product cycle. Since competition is at its max level, it would be in Allstates best interest to implement promotional pricing. Our profits are also at their highest level. We use competitive advertising to attract and retain our customers (Market Force, 2005-2014). Next we enter the decline stage where sales and profits decrease. During this stage, we must determine if the decline is temporary or permanent by conducting marketing research. Production may be stopped if the decline is considered to be permanent. If the decline is temporary, extension strategies are  implemented. The extension stage comes into play to come back from the decline. Original products may be reintroduced in other variations by changing the design, starting a new advertising campaign, and more (Dinesh Bakshi, n.d.). Pricing The price strategy of the web based system. The primary goal is to assure that this meets the needs of our loyal customers and anticipated customers. Moreover the pricing of our new web based system is an essential part of the marketing piece. Indeed this product of service can be very successful through proper indications of the pros and cons. Other price strategies could relate to what new services are provided by our competitor’s. However, researching the value, quality and conveniences of the product of service is essential. Pricing strategies with our new service can work to help gain satisfaction from the customers. Consequently, if the market research is not implemented correctly; this can work against the organizations overall plan. Contingency plans will also help the guide the new product in the process of service. Most of all pricing factors outline important steps of the web based system. In which will differentiate us from other insurance organizations such as Sta te farm. Furthermore one of all states insurance pricing strategies would involve a small fee. This fee will be deducted from the insurance holders policy every month or every six monthly. The web based system will be done as a package deal. Therefore customers will have the option to participate or not. The new product of service will also be explained to every customer .As well as step by step instructions to give a better understanding of how to use the system. Ultimately the use of the system operates to have claims estimates completed in a timely manner. Customers immediately have an opportunity of seeing the breakdown of damages and cost online. Overall the web based systems pricing is a concern that customer will have a choice to speed the process of with their claim .Although there are some people who may prefer to wait to speak with a claims adjuster. Most of all the new product of service will eliminate many problems with the process of claims. Customers will have an opportunity to view their own claims, and get a compete estimate without waiting for a call back from a claims adjuster. Although  this is a preliminary estimate of the claim, this is a positioning factor that gives Allstate’s customers satisfaction. Pricing figures are major factors towards marketing as well as the competitors. Promotional Strategy Allstate has several online competitors (Progressive, eSurance and Geico) that equate themselves as easy and fast. One of Progressives main thing is price match, which allows consumers to compare rates without providing too much personal information. Many people are reluctant to participate in many online services such as this because they think they will bombarded with spam and other marketing tactics. Generally, customer just a roundabout amount of what they would have to pay for car insurance based on their specific coverage needs. Allstate has identified this problem and created an innovative solution. First and foremost, Allstate designed a new way for customers to shop for quotes and have them delivered. According to Marketing Edge (2014), quotes would be delivered anonymously (no personal information required), fast and easy, helpful (accurate), contemporary, and intuitive (para. 4). Allstate needed to spread the word on this innovation, and the best way was to implement a campaign. This campaign included banner ads online and other tools designed to focus on online shoppers. Allstate needed to market themselves differently than their competition in order to stand out, excite consumers, and provoke attention. According to Marketing Edge (2014), The new anonymous quote tool was the centerpiece of the program. Once it went live on the www.allstate.com site, DRTV, paid search, and online advertising campaigns were implemented in order to drive traffic to it. The DRTV campaign used a unique URL, getallstate.com for tracking purposes. Online banner ads linked directly to the site so visitors could be tracked through initiation and completion of a quote. The Program Objective: Develop and market a category-unique online shopping/quoting tool and introduce it to consumers in a way that cost-effectively invites greater shopping/quoting in the direct channel (para. 7). This creative strategy had continued to allow online shoppers the freedom  and convenience to stay anonymous. Customers do not even have to provide their name to receive a quote (estimate). There is no application to feel out and no surveys to take. All of the other necessary information is gather by simply inputting your zip code. There are helpful tools strategically placed to assist customers, and the web site design is contemporary but not too flashy. According to Marketing Edge (2014), Based on their information, shoppers are presented with an array of estimates in a matrix that allows them to compare different features and levels of coverage that meet their unique needs. And it provides a price for each option. The tool demonstrates throughout the ease with which consumers can obtain the customized price and coverage information they want (para. 10). Professional Selling Effort In order to market the new automated system for making claims, Allstate needs to express to the customers exactly how beneficial it will be to them. The best approach would be to build the value to the customer. They would have to show the customer exactly how it would benefit them to manage their claims online rather than deal with a claims adjuster right from the get go. Several people will find it convenient to be able to fill out the accident forms right from their mobile device, like their smart phone or tablet, while others will not be so prone to using technology as they are not technologically advanced. We will show the customers not to be afraid of the new systems, and that they are a benefit, not a burden. Initial Budget The budget is a financial plan for Allstate that quantifies the resource allocation plan for the years to come. To start, Allstate would have to create a specific amount, generated from how many people are going to be monitoring the online claims, and how many hours those individuals are going to be putting in. A sum of $208,000 will needed for ten individuals needed for the new system, all set at 40 hours per week and being paid $10 per hour. Allstate will have to create a budget for the person or company putting together the mainframe for putting together the portal for online claims, and setting up the website. Allstate will have to keep in mind that it is going to be a process to put this together and a lot of storage is going to be needed for their clientele. Generally, websites and web design  are going to cost Allstate anywhere from $1,000 t $2,500. Allstate will create jobs for this new system, and they will have to advertise or promote within in order to fill those jobs, b ut this will be very minimal cost to Allstate. The company expects to have a gross profit in the first year of $250,000-$500,000 due to the amount of claims that are not going to need claims adjuster to visit sites to assess the damage personally. The targeted output rate is 1,000,000, and with the average of 86% of all applicants that start the claim online actually finish it, that leaves 860,000 people that use the online claims and pricing. Allstate does not expect any losses with the new market plan. Success Plan Measurement There are several ways to measure the success of Allstates marketing plan. For Allstate to accurately measure their success plan they must start with the end in mind (Dyke, 2014). One of the first things to do is ask why the project began and what the goals are. Companies cannot lose sight of why they started something. Once that drive is lost the campaign goes under and the company is next. Numbers do not lie, so if the marketing plan is working it will show in revenue. Dyke (2014), Measure success on your marketing program’s ability to meet the needs or desired outcomes of an objective. Remember your business planning here – start with setting your goals, list objectives that meet these goals and then identify tactics that will achieve your objectives. The best objectives are SMART (specific, measurable, achievable, realistic and tangible) (para. 13). To start tracking progress and success, Allstate must determine who their audience is. having a newsletter can be the turning point for a business. You can see which articles have the most readers and track statistics. Dyke 2014, Begin to gather intelligence around the reader’s interest in the topic, taking the newsletter from a passive strategy to an interactive strategy, and one that can be measured. At the bottom of each online article, give readers several options. They can comment or ask questions, request that a lawyer call them, request a white paper or a helpful form or  checklist you’ve developed, or they can register for topical events. Remember, your responsiveness to requests is critical in developing relationships (para. 20). Next, reducing that amount spent on proposals and pitches will help to increase rates in other areas. get to know clients rather than just what they think they want. Allstate must stay one step ahead of the competition to succeed. Many say the perception is reality, so it is imperative to know exactly what Allstates clients think about them. This can be done by implementing satisfaction surveys for the clients to ensure all their needs are met. All threats or problems acknowledged or revealed by the client must be handled swiftly. Allstate must market for the sake of revenue, not for the sake of marketing – and take the momentum of your success and apply throughout all your marketing initiatives (Media coverage: grabbing the bull horn). Ethical Issues Reference Dinesh Bakshi. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.dineshbakshi.com/igcse-business-studies/marketing/revision-notes/814-product-life-cycle Dyke, S.V. (2014). CBA Practice Link. Retrieved from http://www.cba.org/cba/practicelink/mt/measureefforts.aspx http://www allstate.com/claims/report- Insure Me. (1993-2014). Retrieved from http://www.insureme.com/insurance-agent/marketing-tips Market Force. (2005-2014). Retrieved from http://uk.marketforce.com/price-checking/ Marketing Edge. (2014). Retrieved from http://www.marketingedge.org/marketing-programs/collegiate-echo/challenge-history/dma-international-echo-showcase/winner-allstate Perreault, W. D., Cannon, J. P., McCarthy, E. J. (2009). Basic Marketing. A marketing Product Life Cycle | Stages and Limitations of Product Life Cycle (PLC) . (2014, Summer). Textile Learner, (1), 1. Retrieved from http://textilelearner.blogspot.com/2013/12/product-life-cycle-stages-and.html Strategy Planning Approach. (17th ed.). New York, NY: McGraw-Hill Company

The Evolution Of Microfinance Institutions In Nigeria Economics Essay

The Evolution Of Microfinance Institutions In Nigeria Economics Essay With the huge shortage of funds in the banking industry, failure of the established community banks and other government programs in financing microenterprises in Nigeria, gave rise to the idea of transforming existing microfinance NGOs into microfinance banks. In the past years, microfinance institutions were informal in nature. They were characterized by different mechanism such as ability of the members of these microfinance institutions to have credit support from other members which could be used in expanding their businesses mainly in the agricultural sector. For almost three decades it has been a challenge for governments to provide micro-credit to the poor people who are operating micro and medium enterprises. It is known that in every country around the world, over 90% of the businesses are micro and small businesses (Jenkins, 2009). In Nigeria, there used to be people who go round taking money from other people in their job places. These kinds of people serve like village banks, where they accept the money as deposit and save it for the people. This kind of agreement between the inhabitants of the respected area and the people going round to collect their money establishes a trust between them. Although it differs between community to community, the whole idea is the same which is deposit taking and saving, but what remains interesting here is that in some cases, these people that agree to save, form group amongst themselves, and one or two people among them borrow the money after it has been accumulated. They usually gather the money for six to twelve months. The members who collect the money usually use it to invest in their businesses but they also know that they are required to return the money back to the depositors. This way other members will also have a chance to borrow. This is one of the interesting ca ses as it gives us an insight on how the financial sector operates in Nigerian villages and towns. This process of formation of own borrowing groups was not only common in Nigeria, but it was experienced around the world. An empirical evidence in Ghana (Owusu and Tetteh, 1982), Zimbabwe (Bratton, 1986) and Dominican Republic (Desai, 1983) shows that local conditions have influenced the ideal size of membership and that below or above the ideal size of membership correlates negatively with cohesiveness and joint accountability. Anyanwu (2004) conducted a study on micro-finance institutions in Nigeria, their policy practice and potential. In this study, he analyzed at that time, the ten major micro-finance institutions in Nigeria with respect to their location. These micro-finance institutions were Farmers Development Union (FADU), in Ibadan; Community Women and Development (COWAD), in Ibadan; Country Women Association of Nigeria (COWAN), in Akure; Lift Above Poverty (LPO), in Benin; Justice Development and Peace Commission (JDPC), in Ijebu-Ode; Women Development Initiative (WDI), in Kano; Development Education Centre (DEC ENUGU), in Enugu; Development Exchange Centre (DEC BAUCHI), in Bauchi; Outreach Foundation (OF), in Lagos; and Nsukka Area Leaders of Thought United Self-Help Organization (NLTNUSHO), in Nsukka. The result of the analysis carried out by Anyanwu in 2004 showed that most of the beneficiaries of the services provided by the micro-finance institutions in Nigeria were women. About 97.4 per cent of the clients in the sample were women. Four of the institutions exclusively provide services to women, while five had over 90 per cent of their clients as females (Anyanwu, 2004 pp.5). This shows clearly how women have been the most important target for the micro-finance institutions which is viewed as normal because of the fact that women in Nigeria are always believed to be marginalized in terms of socio-economic matters. The study was one of the triggering factors that led to the public sector seeing the fact that almost 60 percent of the Nigerian populations which reside in the rural or remote areas do not have access to micro-credit. This gave the public sector a thinking of coming out with alternative solution to this problem. The following tables 1 to 4 summarize the ten major mic ro-finance institutions in Nigeria and their activities before 2005. As the analysis in Table 1 to 4 shows, in average all these microfinance institutions source their funds from either government grants or grants from other individual or international donors. This kind of source tells us that the microfinance institutions in Nigeria were dependent on these grants which constitute 51.2 percent of their whole source of funds. This is a very big number in respect of sustainability of the entire microfinance sector that they serve to the poor. Microfinance institutions in Nigeria should be able to have continual supply of micro-credit to the Nigerian poor and abandoned population on their own without receiving any exogenous grants or donations. Having that huge amount of external support as 51.2 percent grants or donations, gives us a hint that a more adequate and self-sustainable institution is needed in order to serve the poor on sustainable basis. So overall, self-sustainable institutions are needed to be able to tackle the poverty alleviation questio n addressed by the government through the micro-finance sector in Nigeria. With these downturns and global concern about poverty, micro-finance became a very important discussion and top priority of even international development institutions. Huge funds were set aside by these institutions to combat poverty. These institutions are membered by the world countries which made it powerful enough to deal with questions of poverty and promote consensus solution amongst themselves. With the clear international concern about the effect of poverty which the world income distribution with a Gini coefficient of around 0.85 makes it an excellent indicator of unsuccessful nature of the aggregate world economy these days. This result shows an unjust income distribution, which roughly 15 percent of worlds population receive 80 percent of the aggregate income generated, whereas almost half of the worlds population to fall under massive conditions of poverty (Birtek, 2009). Microcredit is a critical anti-poverty tool and a wise investment in human capital. Now that the nations of the world have committed themselves to reduce the number of people living on less than $1 a day by half by the year 2015, we must look even more seriously at the pivotal role that sustainable microfinance can play and is playing in reaching this Millennium Development Goal (Annan, 2006). Year 2005 was recognized by the United Nations as Year of Microfinance (Jenkins, 2009). United Nations is one of the sole organizations which foster the continual existence of micro financing in both the developed and developing countries. The millennium development goals addressed the issue of alleviating poverty not only by giving foreign aid to the less developed and under-developed countries, but also by supporting the poor to stand on their own. With all these developments that took place since early 1990s, like the other governments, the Nigerian government also reacted. The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) responded in 2005 by establishing laws which will promote the establishments of better financial institutions to serve the Nigerian poor population. The microfinance policy, regulatory and supervisory framework for Nigeria entered into force in 2005. This law obligates microfinance institutions to be regulated in Nigeria. With this policy, regulatory and supervisory framework, the government addressed different issues needed to strengthen microfinance institutions in Nigeria. This law required the private sector to acquire license from the Central Bank of Nigeria. The license was open to start-up a micro-finance banks or an already established microfinance institutions that wanted to convert into a micro-finance bank. The policy aimed at having adequate regulation and supervision over the microfinance sector in Nigeria. According to Jenkins (2009), one of the ways of incorporating microfinance into the financial system can be achieved through the change of microfinance NGOs into a formal regulated financial institutions. With this, adequate credit allocations to the poor could be achieved. As (white and Campion, 2002) termed it to be up scaling of microfinance institutions. Furthermore, Jenkins (2009) stated that since 1990s a large number of microfinance institutions have transformed into a regulated microfinance bank such as BancoSol, K-Rep and ACLE-DA Bank. These microfinance NGOs were all unregulated, but they later transformed into a fully regulated institution under their respective country laws. 3.2 Regulation of Micro Finance Banks in Nigeria The microfinance policy, regulatory and supervisory framework in 2005 was the first formal policy established for microfinance institutions that are becoming microfinance banks in Nigeria. Some months later, another formal text was released on regulatory and supervisory frameworks for micro-finance banks (MFBs) in Nigeria. These provisions were established in line with the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) as every member of the United Nations should respect. Analysis would be made on the policies establishing the micro-finance banks in Nigeria. This policy was the proceeding of the National Conference on Microfinance organized between the Ministry of Finance (MoF) and Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) in 2000. As a result, in 2001, the Central Bank of Nigeria conducted a baseline study of the microfinance institutions in Nigeria. Some of the objectives of the study among others as indicated by Okojie, Monye-Emina, Eghafona, Osaghae Ehiakhanem (2009, pp22-23) were: Identifying the role of MFIs in financial intermediation in Nigeria, Determining the level of financial intermediation of MFIs with a view to developing a regulatory and supervisory framework to guide and enhance its operations in Nigeria, and Recommending policies that would facilitate the linkage of informal, semi-formal, and formal financial services providers to micro- and small-scale rural entrepreneurs. Also the study shows that as of third quarter of 2001, about 60 percents of commercial banks had aggregate savings of about N99.4 million about 662,666 USD and outstanding credit of N649.6 million about 4,330,666 USD, indicating huge business transactions in the sector. This clearly indicates the large size of their equity base. (Okojie, Monye-Emina, Eghafona, Osaghae and Ehiakhanem, 2009). With the above indications addressed by the study which explained the need for a proper regulatory framework, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) responded as indicated by (Anyanwu, 2004) as follows: Development of a regulatory and supervisory framework for the operations of MFIs in Nigeria Establishment of an apex regulatory institution charged with the responsibility of building capacity through the training of directors and managers of MFIs to enable them to develop an efficient information system for identifying and managing risks, and satisfying relevant data and information requirements of regulators and stakeholders, Improvement of infrastructural facilities so as to reduce the transactional costs associated with the administration of microcredit in the country. These areas above indicated by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) brought about the entire regulatory and supervisory framework for microfinance banks (MFBs) in Nigeria. Below will be analysis on the kinds of regulatory and supervisory issues are addressed. 3.2.1 What determines the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN)s Power? The regulatory and supervisory guidelines and rules are issued by the CBN in the exercise of powers given by the provisions of section 28 subsection (1) (b) of the CBN Act 24 of 1991 (as amended) and in pursuance of the provisions of section 56-60A of the Banks and Other Financial Institution Act (BOFIA) 25 of 1991 (as amended). These guidelines were to organize and establish micro-finance banks (MFBs) that will be able to utilize deposit acceptance and savings from the public and engage in microfinance activities with their clients (CBN, 2005). This power made CBN above any other government department or parastatal in decidng regulatory and supervisory rules for these microfinance banks in Nigeria. 3.2.2 What Defines a Micro Finance Bank by law? As indicated by the policy law, a microfinance bank unless otherwise stated shall be taken to mean any kind of company licensed to carry out the business of providing microfinance services which includes such things as savings, loans, domestic funds transfer and other financial services that economically active poor, micro enterprises and small and medium enterprises need to carry out and boost their businesses as indicated by these rules and guidelines (CBN, 2005). 3.2.3 Who should be the micro-finance clients ? It is clealy indicated in the policy establishing the microfinance banks in Nigeria that who their clients should be. The policy clealy states that the main purpose is to serve the economically active poor which will be a way of empoering them to have more choices. The policy indicated that for a person to benefit from the microfinance banks, certain characteristics should be met (CBN, 2005), which includes : Having a monthly income of not more than twice the monthly per capital income of Nigeria or minimum wage, whichever is higher Having a total productive assets [inclusive of those arising from loans but excluding the cost of land] of not more than five hundred thousand Naira [N500, 000.00] only, about 3,333.33 USD. Is not a regular employee of any organization Age between 18 and 60 years. Unless if someone fall in that category, or else microfinance loan would not be granted. 3.2.4 What defines a Poor Person? A poor person as explained by the policy is one who has meager means sustenance or livelihood, and who earns a total income in a year that is less than the minimum taxable income set by the Nigerian government (CBN, 2005). 3.2.5 Which businesses are termed as micro-enterprises? It is indicated in the policy that micro enterprises are those firms that require micro credit or loans to operate and boost their businesses. These kinds of businesses are characterized of mainly sole proprietorships and are family basic in nature. Employments are provided to few which are mostly immediate family members. These micro entrepreneurs work informally and usually are engaged in activities which are primary in nature like local craft and subsistence agriculture. 3.2.6 What defines Collateral and what is the Loan Duration? Unlike the commercial bank lending where collateral is a requirement, micro loans are given to the micro entrepreneurs such as peasants, farmers, artisans, fishermen, women, senior citizens and non-salaried workers in the formal and informal sector based on their character and the cash flow of the businesses and their household (CBN, 2005). Collateral is not needed to secure any micro-credit loan due to the fact that the idea is to help the poor, low income earners and micro entrepreneurs boost their businesses as indicated by the policy (CBN, 2005). The micro-loan duration should not exceed 180 days (6 months), but in some exceptional cases where a loan is giving to micro-enterprises engaged in agricultural activities with longer gestation period, maximum of 12 months (one year) would be granted. The loan may be repaid daily, weekly, monthly or bi-monthly basis depending on the amortization schedule in the contract (CBN, 2005). 3.2.7 Ownership and License of Microfinance Banks (MFBs) In Nigeria The policy framework explained that micro-finance banks can be established by a single person, group of individuals, community development associations, and domestic private and foreign investors. The policy further explained that significant diversification in ownership would continue to be encouraged in order to enhance good corporate governance of licensed MFBs. Also those universal banks that intend to create any category of MFB as their subsidiaries shall be required to satisfy all the requirements set by the law. Talking about granting license, it requires that any investor thats willing to operate a MFB in Nigeria shall put it in writing to the governor of Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). It indicated that there shall be two categories of licenses. These categories as indicated by the Micro-Finance policy were: Those Micro Finance Banks (MFBs) licensed to operate as a unit bank otherwise known as Community banks shall operate and open branches within a specified local government area [LGA]. N20 million [twenty million naira] roughly 133,333.333 USD or such amount shall be the minimum capital requirement as may be prescribed by the CBN from time to time. And Those Micro Finance Banks (MFBs) licensed to operate in a State and open branches within a specified state or Federal capital territory. N1.0 billion (one billion naira) only roughly 6,666,666.667 USD or such an amount shall be the minimum capital requirement as may be prescribed by the CBN from time to time (CBN 2005, p10). With these features mentioned above, one can see the differences between a universal bank and a micro-finance bank regulation in Nigeria. A clear demarcation can be seen in the amount of capital requirement. For a universal bank, its 25 Billion Naira about 166,666,666.7 USD, which is 25 times the minimum capital requirement for a microfinance bank licensed to operate in a state. This is a huge gap because microfinance banks in Nigeria are only restricted to given credits to the class of people that are either low income earners, aged or senior citizens. These only are allowed to receive a micro-credit loan. 3.3 Permissible acts for Microfinance Banks in Nigeria There are number of permissible acts indicated by the policy establishing microfinance banks in Nigeria. As indicated by the framework policy, a microfinance bank shall only be allowed to provide the following services to its clients (CBN, 2005 pp8-9): Acceptance of various types of deposits including savings, time, target and demand from individuals, groups and associations; except public sector deposits [government], provision of credit to its customers, including formal and informal self-help groups, individuals and associations; promotion and monitoring of loan usage among its customers by providing ancillary capacity building in areas such as record keeping and small business management; issuance of redeemable debentures to interested parties to raise funds from members of the public with approval of the CBN; collection of money or proceeds of banking instruments on behalf of its customers through correspondent banks; provision of payment services such as salary, gratuity, pension for the various tiers of government; provision of loan disbursement services for the delivery of credit programme of government, agencies, groups and individual for poverty alleviation on non-recourse basis; provision of ancillary banking services to their customers such as domestic remittance of funds and safe custody; maintenance and operation of various types of account with other banks in Nigeria; investment of surplus funds of the MFB in suitable instruments including placing such funds with correspondent banks and in Treasury Bills; pay and receive interests as may be agreed upon between them and their clients in accordance with existing guidelines; operation of micro leasing facilities, micro finance related hire purchase and arrangement of consortium lending and supervise credit schemes to ensure access of micro finance customers to inputs for their economic activities; receiving of refinancing or other funds from CBN and other sources, private or public, on terms mutually acceptable to both the provider of the funds and the recipient MFBs; provision of micro finance related guarantees for their customers to enable them have greater access to credit and other resources; buying, selling and supplying industrial and agricultural inputs, livestock , machinery and industrial raw materials to poor persons on credit and to act as agent for any association for the sale of such goods or livestock; investment in shares or equity of any body-corporate, the objective of which is to provide microfinance services to poor persons; encouragement of investment in cottage industries and income generating projects for poor persons as may be prescribed by the CBN provision of services and facilities to customers to hedge various risks relating to microfinance activities; provision of professional advice to poor persons regarding investments in small businesses; rendering managerial, marketing, technical and administrative advice to customers and assisting them in obtaining services in such fields; mobilize and provide financial and technical assistance and training to micro- enterprises provision of loans to microfinance clients for home improvement and consumer credits; and performance of non-banking functions that relate to micro finance related business development services such as co-operatives and group formation activities, rural industrialization and other support services needed by micro enterprises. Unless otherwise stated by the CBN, no microfinance bank is allowed to spill over these permissible acts, in other words only these services can be performed and provided by microfinance banks in Nigeria. These permissible acts are subject to review by the CBN from time to time. 3.4 Prohibitive acts for Microfinance Banks in Nigeria As indicated by the policy, microfinance banks are not allowed to carry activities (CBN, 2005 pp9-10) such as : acceptance of public sector [government] deposit except for the permissible activities like provision of payment services such as salary, gratuity, pension for the various tiers of government and provision of loan disbursement services for the delivery of credit programme of government, agencies, groups and individual for poverty alleviation on non-recourse basis foreign exchange transactions, international commercial papers, international corporate finance, international electronic funds transfer, cheque clearing activities, dealing in Land for speculative purposes, real estate except for its use as office accommodation, allow any facility for speculative purposes; and enter into leasing, renting, and sale/purchase of any kind with its directors, officers, employees or persons who either individually or in concert with their family members and beneficiaries own five percent [5%] or more of the equity of the MFB, without the prior approval in writing of the Central Bank of Nigeria