Open Versus Closed Innovation Essay Example for Free

Open Versus Closed Innovation Essay Open Versus Closed Innovation BY celestel 979 A Critical Look at the Effects of In the Innovative Firms of the Twenty-first Century June 17, 2010 Abstract In todays fast paced business world, which innovation method should companies adopt, open or closed innovation? In this paper we will explore the methods of closed and open innovation. Then we will explore the pros and cons of both innovation methods and discuss which method works better in the business world of the twenty-first century. After reviewing the results this paper explores the particle implications that innovative firms should be aware of regarding Open and Closed nnovation and recommendations will be made for future research in this area. Introduction Background Looking back even a few decades companies viewed innovation strategies very differently then they do today. It was believed that successful innovation needed internal control and secrecy from others in the market. Large corporations used to dominate the field of innovation because they were the only ones who could afford to invest it large scale RD. Any company that tried to enter the market would have to find large amounts of resources to be able to even attempt to compete with the RD f the large corporations (Chesbrough, 2003; Herzog , 2008; Aylen, 2010; Kodama, 2005; Trott Hartmann, 2009). In the current economy start-up companies have found ways to bypass the large RD investments of the past. Instead of doing their own research these new entrance are getting their knowledge and technology from outside their company by either investing in relevant startup companies, or partnering with other companies up, down or horizontally on the value chain (Chesbrough, 2003). With the expanding options on how to obtain innovative ideas, processes, and products the big question remains should companies used a closed or open pproach to innovation? And does the open and closed methods work for all companies? (Almirall Casadesus-Masanell, 2010) In this paper we take a critical look at what closed and open innovation is, what the pros and cons are to both options, and try to determine if one method is better then Closed Innovation The main theory behind Closed Innovation is the belief that successful innovation requires control (Chesbrough, 2003). Companies that follow the Closed Innovation (C) model (see Figure 1) believe in self-reliance and that they should follow these rules to succeed: A firm should hire the best and smartest people ? Profiting from innovative efforts requires a firm to discover, develop, and market everything itself Being first to market requires that research discoveries originate within the firm Being first to market also ensures that the firm will win the Leading the industry in RD investments results in coming up with competition the best and most ideas and eventually in winning the competition Restrictive IP management must prevent other firms from profiting from the firms ideas and technologies (Herzog, 2008) Cl companies attempt to do everything on their own from innovative ideas, evelopment, manufacturing, advertising, promotion, distribution, service and even financing. If the innovative ideas or projects are not pursued or are discarded part way they are stored internally and will not be profit able to the company or useful to the rest of the world unless they are used internally at a later date. This creates a great loss of many potentially great innovative ideas, products, services, and processes. If a company chooses Cl it can be expect that many innovations will be lost as companies do not have the ability or resources to turn every idea or technology nto a successful innovation the market can use. The main reason a company would choose Cl would be because they are scared of having their intellectual investments stolen by their competitors (Herzog , 2008; Chesbrough, 2003). [pic] Open Innovation Companies have reached the understanding that not all innovations have to originate internally and that if they do have an internal innovation and do not have the ability to act upon it they can still profit from it by partnering, Joint ventures, licensing or selling the innovation to another company. In Open Innovation (01) companies must ind a balance between keeping important internal secrets and still working with other companies to gain and produce valuable ideas, processes, resources, finances and support (Herzog , 2008). Companies that follow the 01 model (see Figure 2) believe in the following principals: Not all of the smart people work for us, so we must find and tap into the knowledge and expertise of bright individuals outside our company External RD value We dont have to originate the research in order to profit from it Building a better business model is better than getting to market first If we make he best use of internal and external ideas, we will win We should profit from others use of our intellectual property, and we should buy others intellectual property whenever it advances our own business model (Chesbrough, 2003) 01 encourages the Joining of resources from firms across all aspects of the value chain. Companies now realize that innovations they cant use or can be used further by other companies can lead to additional profits that they could have never obtained on their own (Almirall, Casadesus-Masanell, 2010). Kodama, (2005) expands 01 even further to talk about creating strategic communities See Appendix 1), a convenient process of speeding up a firms innovation. To be able to quickly acquire a variety of knowledge of great use, managers from different areas, from inside and outside the firm, can make a strategic community with internal and external members, which could involve customers. A huge benefit is that strategic communities are not bound by the same limitations as the official organization. Now that we have explored what Cl and 01 is we will now go on to look at why one of the methods might be better then the other for companies competing in the twenty- irst century and why companies decide to choose one either Cl or 01. Open versus Closed Innovation 01 involves risk such as knowledge and sensitive information leakage and the risks must be weighed against the benefits that would be gained from participating in 01. One more trouble with 01 is that well some areas open up to help the flow of knowledge it has been found that to keep sensitive information secure there has actually been a reduction in the amount of information being share between internal departments which could effect the companies internal innovation (Trott Hartmann, 2009). It has been found that 01 is especially needed in fields such as knowledge-intensive industries where competition is strong and companies need to work together to be able to gain a competitive advantage in the field (Trott Hartmann, 2009). Almirall Casadesus-Masanell, (2010) study showed that 01 works better then Cl for partnerships that are fixed and have low to medium complexity levels but they also found that when there is high complexity involved that Cl is the best method to follow. Another discovery was that the benefits can be greater in flexible partnerships over fixed partnerships. The model of flexible partnerships effectively says, If you cant fgure out how to put the pieces together internally (confgure two subsystems optimally), it is critical to have lots of different pieces (complementary subsystems) to choose from and know how to put them together externally. (Almirall Casadesus- Masanell, 2010) Chesbrough and Crowther (2006; as sited in Aylen, 2010) said that 01 traditional and mature industries. A big contrast between 01 and Cl is how they go through their idea lists. Cl managers go through and proceed with the ideas they see as beneficial to their company and iscard what they see as bad ideas or ideas they know their firm does not have the resources to accomplish. Whereas a 01 manager would go through their idea list and sort them into three categories, innovations their company can pursue internally, ideas they can approach other companies about, and ideas that will not work at all. Therefore the 01 model gets to profit from the ideas that the Cl model would have otherwise discarded or stored for a later date (Chesbrough, 2003). Even though 01 has been adapted by many organizations as the best way to be successfully innovative the theory is not perfect. Trott ; Hartmann, (2009) point out that 01 is very linear and does not suggest any feedback or feed-forward mechanisms unlike the newer innovation models such as the Cyclic Innovation Model (Berkhout, A], Patrick van der Duin, Dap Hartmann ; Roland Ortt,(2007), cited in Trott ; Hartmann, 2009). This newer model suggest feedback and feed-forward techniques and also that the innovation process is cyclic, meaning new innovations grow from older innovations. Cl has been very successful for some companies such as Apple they swept the market with the iPod and this strategy and product put them back into the playing ield after have been struggling for years to catch up with the innovations of other major players. Another example of Cl is the Wii by Nintendo which was extremely innovative with their new product features (Almirall ; Casadesus-Masanell, 2010). Some very large companies have tried Cl techniques and had some devastating effects as a result, such as IBM and Xerox but both these examples were able to overcome these problems with the help of 01 techniques. Procter and Gamble and Philips have successfully adapted 01 and have gone so far as to hold conferences on he topic and even published their own reports on the subject. Trott ; Hartmann, (2009) provide a list of companies and the reasons they choose to become part of a strategic alliance (See Appendix 2). It has been noted by Chesbrough, (2003) that near the end of the 20th century a number of things happened that caused Cl to be taken into question by many firms.

Business Plan For Early Intervention Education Essay

Business Plan For Early Intervention Education Essay The purpose of this paper is to show the need for early intervention for infants and toddler with Autism and Intellectual Disabilities. Kitkat the Educators program will prepare disabled students to excel at a young age, by teaching, training stimulating the mind to create an atmosphere to function outside of ones self. Kitkat is not like the competitors, this school will focus and offer advance communication skills (technology) to encourage speech, physical strength, academics, top of the line technology, after school tutorial, recreational, craft and dance. This disability has created a need for quality child care development and training to help children with Autism and Intellectual Disabilities to be successful in life. Also, the owner focuses on parent trainings, parents turn to for support, reassurance, and hope when faced with the uncertainty of their childs future. It is important for parent participation as long as their child receives services from the school. This program will focus on parents learning all techniques use in the classroom in the home, and community. History of Organization Kitkat is a privately held corporation run by its owner, Cathy Austin, who has 20 years of experience teaching students with Intellectual Disabilities (ID) and Autism (A). The owner is certified as special education teacher and highly qualified by the State of Georgia. The owner currently has a bachelor degree with a concentration in mentally retardation. Which is now known as intellectual disabilities? The owner will be supported in daily operations of the school by a consultant, a campus director and certified educators with experiences in the child care field. Intellectual disability (ID) is now more common amongst autistics than in the general population. Overview: According Ackerman, (2011) The increasing prevalence of Autism has been recognized as the fastest growing developmental disability in the nation, affecting one in 88 children. It is now the third most common childhood disorder, more common than Down syndrome and childhood diabetes combined. In turn, parents need to be informed of the assessment, treatment, and intervention resources available to help their children if diagnosed with autism. At the center of KitKat the Educator, we want to reassure parents that there is hope, and through our services, individuals will be able to maximize their potential. KitKat has established itself as the institution that parents turn to for support, reassurance, and hope when faced with the uncertainty of their childs future. We want to reassure parents that there is hope, and through our services, individuals will be able to maximize their potential. To most effectively meet the needs of children with autism and their families, KitKat the Educator has developed a training and education center scheduled to open in 2013. Ackerman states (2011) this new initiative will create a more timely early diagnosis screening for infants and toddlers who may be afflicted with Autism. A Licensed Clinical Psychologist (LCP) will be hired to meet the ever-growing demand for extensive evaluation, assessment, and treatment services. KitKat will work collaboratively with local service providers, and school systems, to create a progressive and comprehensive treatment facility to best serve childrens needs (Ackerman TACA, 2012). According to Berkell, Z. D. (1999), a Swiss psychiatrist Eugen Blueuler was the first to use the name Autism back in the early 1912s. The reason for early intervention today is to help Autistic children function much better in society (Berkell, 1999). In the 1940s, researchers in the United States began to use the term autism to describe children with emotional or social problems (Berkell, 1999). Kanner, Leo a doctor from Johns Hopkins University, used the word autism to describe the withdrawn behavior of several children he studied (Berkell, 1999). Also Han Asperger a scientist in Germany, identified a similar condition thats now called Aspergers syndrome Aylott, J (2011). According to Aylott, J (2011) Han Asperger found several types of autism: Pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified (PDDNOS)- Aspergers syndrome Rett syndrome Childhood disintegrative disorder How Is Autism Treated? Leo Kanner treatments for autism vary (Aylott, 2011) depending on the needs of the individual. Kanner, (2011) treatments fall into three categories: Behavioral and communication therapy Medical and dietary therapy Complementary therapy (music or art therapy, for example) The Owners Journey The journey as teacher did not begin immediately after college. Cathy Austins degree in special education B. S., as an Intellectual Disabilities (ID) and Autism (A) teacher for DeKalb County School District. The owner has 21 years of experience working with children with ID and Autism. The owner worked with Children diagnosed or identified with autism, cerebral palsy, Mental Retardation, intellectual impairment, physical impairments, learning disabilities and Down syndrome. The owner believes that providing structure and visual supports can help to alleviate problems that may arise. Thus, allowing individuals with disabilities to demonstrate to others their capabilities. Teaching is actually a second career for the owner; the owner worked in the health care in the as a nurses aide for 4 years. The owner was trying to run from the calling of God. On the job doing the daily routine the voice of God spoke and said this not what I told you to do! Then God said I told you to teach children with special needs. Limited with only being a nurses aide, the owner decided to apply for college to get a degree to teach. The owner was unemployed for five months and then got an opportunity to go to college and get a Bachelor Degree in Special Education (Mentally Retardation). The first teaching job was as a special education teacher for homebound. The owner wanted to do something to help and to make a difference in the lives of these young children. The Owner moved from homebound to teaching in the classroom started in 1991. The owners favorite project is walking for March of Dimes Autism, and Cerebral Palsy. What can you do to strengthen and improve the childs life? The Owner enjoys being involved in educating the community about our children and being an advocate to support the parent. The Owner always wanted to have a school for children with disabilities. Now I can see the dream happening more now than ever before. Kitkat is a childhood nickname. So the Owner decided to use kitkat as the name of the school. The teaching profession can be strengthened by additional parent-involvement. The students whose parents are involved and vigilant about seeking opportunities to further expand their childs learning and abilities are the most successful students. The art of learning does not occur solely within the confines of the classroom, but it includes life-lessons and cultural experiences. The parents who ensure they are providing these additional resources for their children help not only the child, but the teacher who can draw from these experiences to illustrate key points in the child and parent life. Philosophy The Owners philosophy of teaching is very simple. It is simply to go beyond the standards, improving inappropriate behavior and communication skills. One needs heart and compassion to teach and reach children with special needs. Having the desire to get to know the students and actually listen to them is a major part of learning. The students respond better when they know others care, and care enough to watch their patterns and identify the times when they are not themselves and need help beyond the lesson for the day. The Owners thoughts are what can one do to strengthen and improve one is to evolve as a teacher. Children are changing. Curriculum and techniques is changing. The world is changing, so for one to remain the same and not evolve with the changes of society and the people in it does not help children. The overall goal in education is to help children and in order to do that, one need to constantly reevaluate ones lessons, approach and delivery as a whole. As a teacher you learn so much from your peers, but one will continue to watch and learn from the students as well. It is honestly believed that one can make a difference in the life of a child, every day. My Career and Educational Experience B.S. Degree in Special Education MBA Degree in February 2013 2 + years Adult Workshop 2 years Georgia Regional (skilled area) children Intellectual Disabilities 3+ years supervisory experience of staff 20+ years teaching Intellectual Disabilities/Autism experience Past strategic choices- Through the DeKalb County School District, Clayton County Adult workshop, and Douglas county workshop my work experience are as follow: Homebound- providing service to disabled students not able to attend public school system due to medical and fragile situations. Clayton County Respite care to children with Intellectual disabilities. Parent Conference meeting with parent for concerns and information Atlanta Group Home for Jewish Down Syndrome adults. Current Position in the Market Location of Business The future home for the business will be 748 Flat Shoal Road, Decatur, Georgia. This business will start in the old Y building on Candler road and my pursuit for a loan of $300,000.00 for the building. This building is in the heart of the business district of Candler Road. It is one mile from Flat Shoal Elementary School. The Owner will offer after school program to disabled and non-disabled school aged children. Some of the best years in life are the time spent as a child and later our adult yearsà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦. As working adults in a fast paced society, we sometimes forget just how precious and fleeting those years are. With that in mind, imagine an alternative to traditional infant, day and after school care that not only met your child care needs, but also provided an activity based learning environment that mirrors those used at public schools. Professional care givers with the credentials to not only enhance your childs early social and motor skills, but to also teach them advanced studies in the arts and academics found at institutions of higher learning. A curriculum based curriculum tailored specifically for children, taught in a fun, nurturing care giving environment. Now imagine this at a cost less than that of the combination of conventional training services and specific interest based children programs. Kitkat the Educator is an early intervention comprehensive developmental and educational program, exclusively for children with Intellectual Disabilities and Autism, ages new born to 7 years old. The school dedicates its efforts and resources toward ensuring top rated care giving services coupled with a high quality activity based learning environment tailored for children in these age groups. The school will respond to the needs of its parents and students with excellent care giving and instruction an advanced curriculum, flexible programs, local community involvement and business partnerships. The Kitkat School has a strong commitment to accessibility and diversity. Its open door policy embraces all who desire to provide a better quality of care, preparedness and education for their children. The school works to provide affordable, first clas s care giving and education by providing a broad range of integrated programs and services and innovative learning approaches. The school is committed to taking a leadership role in child care services, higher learning, community services and promoting cultural diversity. Kit Kat directs its activities towards student success. Campus Direction Sign Campus Office Classroom Recreational building Keys to Success The keys to success for chitchat are: Marketing: differentiating care giving and education and interest activity programs. Service quality: care giving and educational programs provided by degreed and certified educators, child care workers, tutors and technology. Reputation: maintaining a highly regarded reputation for excellence in care giving, education and community involvement and being the employer of choice in our market for child and educational talent. Profitability: controlling costs and managing budgets in accordance with company goals, adhering to strategic business plans for growth and experience and reinvesting in the business and its employees. Start up Summary: As I pursue investor to invest into kitkat business, the first location may start in my home. As the number of children increase and the fund are available then the Shoal road facility will be a dream comes true. Reaching into some of my retirement money, it is possible to use funds from my 401to start the business in my home. The school founder and president, Cathy Austin, will oversee fiscal responsibility, employing an CPA for financial oversight. A campus Director will be hired to handle day to day operations and will work collaboratively with the silent partners and other campus personnel to ensure a successful business venture. As reflected in the table below, the estimated startup cost for kitkat will be $39,450. These costs will be financed solely by the owners personal cash funds and optional credit lines. An anticipated $60,000 SBA guaranteed 5 year loan will be used as working capital. Future expansion, growth and franchising strategy will be self financed. Start Summary Utilities 300.00 Legal 2000.00 Furniture 6000.00 Toys 2000.00 Playground Fence 500.00 Rent 0 Brochures 350.00 Business printing paper 300.00 Insurance 3000.00 1 Teacher Assistance 2000.00 Built one room on house 5,490.00 Student supply 2000.00 Lab tops (4 to 5) 1250.00 Food 5000.00 Recreation equipment 5000.00 Total $35,190.00 Enrollment will be at least six children per quarter: First quarter expecting 6 children Second quarter 6 more children Third quarter 6 more children Fourth quarter 6 more children Total of 24 children As the children increase then staff will increase to help teach in a small group to focus more 1 to 4 children in a classroom. Objectives By the end of Year 2 expect sales increasing almost double. By the end of Year 1 maintain a high raw gross margin. By the end of Year1 expected to open second campus. By the end of Year 3 will attempt to franchise. Pricing Strategies Kitkat must charge appropriately for the high-end, high-quality educational and care giving services we offer. Our revenue structure has to support our cost structure, so the salaries we pay to assure quality services must be balanced by the revenue we charge. We will be price competitive in the market we serve; however, we will not subscribe to the low price leader concept. The quality of our service will support the prices we charge. Affordable Price The price for service for each child is $350.00 weekly, paying in advance by check, cash or money order. The payment policy is expected to be followed and payment is due on every Friday. Promotion Community Involvement Educational Curriculum Support Service Behavior Specialist, Occupational/Speech/Physical Therapist, Autism Specialist, Employment policy and Procedures, Job description, Safety fire, Recruitment and training Open House Tornado drills The type of services that will be offered: Full time child care Part-time/After school activities After school Tutoring Parent training and support Homebound Service Vision Statement: To enhance the life of the disabled child in socially, emotionally, academically, recreational and physically. Mission Statement: The act of learning should not occur solely within the confines of the classroom, but includes life lesson and cultural experiences. The overall goal in educating is to help disable children improve and progress socially, emotionally and communicating. One must learn to make a difference in the life of a child every day. to teach the parents increase data driven teach and reach a child to teach the child the curriculum based activity External Threats: the economy condition can be threat to profit (state funds to children with disabilities) competitors can be a threat global move External Opportunities in the community for exposure and direct mail campaigns Community Involvement Advertisement Direct mail Sales Brochures Open House Internal Strengths and Weaknesses SWOT Strengths Weaknesses Top of the line Curriculum and Training Trained/Certified Staff Small class session Required Parent training and support groups Quality care and service Not enough funds Right location Get the right people on the bus Someone stealing your idea Advertisement Community involvement Open house Direct mail Sale Brochure Parents State License and approval Economic conditions competitor Opportunities Threats Expense Table Expenses Expected Monthly Cost Expected Yearly Cost Rent Salaries and wages Supplies: Technological, Equipment, furniture, computers, software, copy machine, desks, chair, etc.) and other Advertisement and other promotions Utilities, Heat, Electricity, etc. Telephone and Internet Insurance Other (specify) Other (specify) Expected Revenue June July August Sept. Oct. Dec. Yearly Revenue (Sale) Category 1 Category 2 Total Revenue (Sales) Cost of Goods Sold Internal Factor Evaluation (IFE) Factor Weight Rating Extended Strengths Well known for quality reliable service 0.16 4 0.64 Low turnovers provides continuity customer knowledge 0.07 3 0.21 Represent a full line of top quality component manufacturers 0.15 4 0.60 Strong balance sheet with very little debt 0.11 3 0.33 Almost 60% of customers come from referrals 0.13 4 0.52 Weaknesses Strictly a local company 0.05 2 0.10 Unknown to the general public 0.02 2 0.04 Use distributors for parts purchases, incurring higher cost 0.08 2 0.16 Provide many benefits to employees that raise coat 0.13 1 0.13 Less than 5% if customers buy service contrasts 0.10 1 0.10 Total 1.00 2.83 Company Summary Kitkat first school will be located North Druid Hill, Atlanta. The school will employ six fundamentals that will serve as the driving force for the services offered. Premier care giving services An activity based, children structured curriculum Advanced technology and developmental programs Continuing education mentoring and tutoring Learning services Community advancement and involvement Company Ownership Company Ownership Kitkat developmental and training school is a privately held proprietorship owned in majority by its founder. There are also two silent partners, neither of whom own more than 10%, but will be active participants in daily operations, management decisions and consulting though they do not own a financial stake in the company. Once the operation reaches its anticipated growth and profitability goals, the school plans to franchise and will register as a limited liability company or as a corporation, whichever will better suit the future business needs. Services KitKat training school offers quality child care services and a curriculum based designed for kids new born to 7 years old and pre-k to second grade. Normal operating hours will be 6:45am to 6:30pm. Hours of operation are Monday through Friday with observance of all major legal holidays. Early drop off service will be offered as needed. KK exists to provide premier child care services that are aimed at enhancing traditional day care methodologies and integrating extracurricular interests (such as arts and crafts, gymnastics) into one comprehensive program. Our activity based curriculum is specifically tailored for children. We offer state of the art technology programs in leading edge facilities which help prepare students through main school homework assignments and provide a base of understanding and interaction to ensure success in future educational endeavors. Finally, our developmental program reinforces basic social, listening, independence and motor skills and prepares studen ts for future related interaction. All of our learning and child care services employ technology, partnerships, professional services and other activities that support and promote higher learning. In addition to the extensive services and curriculum offered, each campus will also offer weekend specialty classes for children and adults and planned family activities in the community it serves. KK will also offer children birthday party hosting services, providing great activities for kids and an easy experience for parents. Activity instructors will be assigned for these events and will lead the activities, ensuring a memorable celebration Services Description Upon its opening, Kitkat Developmental and training services will offer four basic services in the Atlanta area: Full time child care Part-time/After school activities After school Tutoring Prior to opening, the school will have a two month enrollment drive. Based on the market reaction to the drive, these services may be altered to meet the needs of the community. The school will always remain nimble enough to respond to the needs of the community in which it serves. Support Service Offered Early Intervention starts with a committee meeting to determine what services a child may need. The team will take the time to evaluate child to see if they need any of the following listed below: Psychologist the referral for a psychologist is to obtain a current intellectual functional level of the child. During this process a parent questionnaire must be complete by the parents. This is for background information; the childs birth, prenatal development, weight at birth, complications at birth; medical history such as; asthma or food allergies; and behavior. The types of testing instruments the psychologist use for evaluation is: Brigance Inventory of Early Development this instrument test self-care, gross motor, cognitive/social, communication, perceptual/fine motor and this instrument checks the age equivalent in years and months of a child. Assessment of Intellectual Functioning- the purpose of the evaluation is provided and estimation of the childs intellectual ability as a comparison against actual academic achievement. Determining cognitive strengths and weaknesses also helps to evaluate learning potential and guide recommendations for the use of specific instructional strategies and intervention techniques. Stanford-Binet Intelligence scales: Fifth Edition (SB: 5) is an intelligence measure that consists of nonverbal and verbal tasks that assess skill in five domains. The SB: 5 yield composite scores in each of these domains as well as a nonverbal Intelligence Quotient (NVIQ), a verbal intelligence Quotient (VIQ) and a Full Scale Intelligence Quotient (FSIQ) that represents an estimate of the childs overall level of functioning. Speech therapy When a child who needs speech therapy received speech in the early stages to promote your childs development, it is a support system not only for the child, but also for the family, and finally it gives your child the abilities to become a functional member of society. Development Research has shown us that most of a childs learning and development happens in the pre-school years, which is why the timing of intervention is so important. All children have what we call stages of readiness to learn, and if you miss these stages, your child may have difficulty in learning particular skills later on. Support system This is extremely important for any family with a special needs child. We have a lot to cope with in the early days, after a diagnosis, disappointment, frustration and helplessness. Many families of handicapped children also have to deal with divorce and some degree of social isolation. Thats why stepping in early can definitely give your family the tools to h ave a better attitude within the family and towards the special needs child. Your therapists can provide you with information and skills to teach and help your child t best of your abilities, thereby relieving a lot of stress and feelings of helplessness. Take advantage of friends and family who offer to help, you need to take time out, you are after all more than just a mother and a wife. Society We would all like our children to become functional and contributing members of society, so start implementing the skills your child needs to do this, as early as possible. Become involved in your childs treatment, and implement all the skills that your therapist suggests to improve their overall communication skills. The speech teacher works with the child; to assist the child in developing the ability to understand basic concepts, when shown two pictures, the child will understand the difference between the two concepts; to assist the child in identifying pictures describing basic concepts; to understand the concept of sequencing with 10%, 20% etcà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦; the child will begin to understand sounds, temporal sequencing; the child will develop the ability to make sound, position lips, and tongue; assist the child in matching and sorting pictures with association relationship; Expressive Language-increase expressive language skills that are needed to facilitate effective daily communications; to produce his own name; name body parts; imitate sounds, intonations and words; name common objects and pictures of objects; assist the child in expressing needs through words; use eye to face contact when speaking needs through words; decrease echolalia and preservation speech; develop self confidence in verbal encounters; develop volume that is appropriate to the listeners need; participate in group activities that involve turn-taking and observation of rules; develop reasoning in cause and effect relationships; identify the object described when presented aloud with the definition; carry on a conversation in a socially appropriate manner; tell about recent and past experience; to correctly produce one-word utterances; name object and person; say words to call attention to an object; say two words to indicate the recurrence of an object; say two or more word utterance which contain an adjective and a n oun; say two or more words to show disappearance of an object; say two or more words to show emotion; use verbs appropriately; name pictured verbs; described actions performed by himself/herself; describe actions performed by others; use categories and association appropriately; name member of the category when presented with the category title; imitate the model as they point to peers possession; respond orally with the correct possessive form in short phrases as the speech teacher points to peers; respond to wh questions; answer what, who, where, when, why, and which, questions; Competitive Comparison The child care industry as a whole is saturated. However, based on US Census 2000 data, DeKalb County child care services provider listing is growing and has few licensed developmental and training centers for disabled children. Kitkat School intends to fill this local market need. In the Atlanta area North Druid Hills subdivisions mostly have retired resident homes respectively (Margret Harris Comprehensive school). There is only one other developmental facility in the North Druid Hills neighborhood. This one is on knob Dr. There is also three family child caregivers listed in the area, but none in the immediate community. Kitkat will differentiate itself from its local competitors by offering an alternative to these traditional day care approaches. The kitkat school market strategy is based on providing an activity based learning environment that is used in many major public schools. We will offer the community of professional caregivers with the credentials to not only enhances a childs early social and motor skills, but to also teach them advanced studies in cognitive and social skills. Technology Since the school founder has an extensive information Technology background, its only natural that Kitkats school will employ and maintain the latest technology to enhance its curriculum, office management systems, payment processing and record keeping. Marketing Analysis Summary Kitkats developmental and training program offers services which are vitally important in todays fast paced, dual-income world. As an increasing number of families have become dependent on one income, the need for quality child care has skyrocketed. According to Atlanta Business Statistics, 84.6% of licensed child care facilities succeed and make a profit in their 1st year of operation. Nationally, this number is 66.7%. There is no doubt, in the North Druid Hills area, that there is room and a need for a school for disabled children. Market demographics to support this statement can be found below. Target Market Segment Strategy The target market for Kitkat is full-time workers. Referral marketing, direct-mail campaigns and Referral marketing, direct mail campaigns and community activity days will be the primary types Of marketing strategies utilized. Maintaining and enhancing its reputation with families and in the community will be crucial in obtaining the planned market share growth of this target market. Market Segmentation Kitkat has a focus on meeting the local community need for child care services within the 5 mile radius of downtown Atlanta. Students will taken in flexible on either a full time or part- time basis. Full-Time Worker The school will establish a significantly large, full-time, regular client

How Important Is Race In US Politics?

How Important Is Race In US Politics? I am the son of a Black man from Kenya and a White woman from Kansas, asserted Barack Obama in 2008; and for as long as I live, I will never forget that in no other country on Earth is my story possible. This speech came in March 2008; until this point candidates on both sides had avoided discussing race as an issue. Obama wished to establish himself as a candidate outside of race, yet ultimately this was not possible. Those opposed to this strategy ensured that race remained an integral factor in the 2008 election and the wider US political scene. Race can be seen to link to a variety of policy areas. For example, a recent New York Times article states that, four in 10 Black children are born into poverty [while] less than one in 10 White children are.  [2]  Statistics such as this demonstrate that race in connection with economics and class are central issues for US politics more generally. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention compiled an extensive report in January 20 11 detailing racial disparities in a broad array of health problems; highlighting the continual significance of race as a policy issue, particularly in popular discourse, as this report received much mainstream media attention.  [3]  Yet the subsequent issues raised by race have changed. No longer are blatant displays of racism socially or legally acceptable; so what is preventing us from deeming America a post-racial society?  [4]  Furthermore, why is a post-racial society the aspiration? On the one hand, it falls in line with the American principle of a united nation, yet on the other hand it is considered dangerous to attempt to embrace different cultures, after so many years of segregation. Furthermore, the absence of overt discrimination does not mean that exclusion has ended, rather, that the character of [such] discrimination has changed.  [5]   This paper shall argue the continuing importance of race in US politics, both through its overt influence on policy making as well as its implicit influence; as often discussions which avoid race are making an equally important statement. This essay shall consider race largely in terms of traditional binaries of Black and White. Incorporating an analysis of ethnicity will be too broad, particularly as language and immigration would need to be considered. Obamas election as a mixed-race American has brought traditional binaries of Black and White back to the forefront of discussions. While other minority groups do add another layer of complexity, analysis of this goes beyond the scope of this essay. A further constraint has meant that race will be discussed with regard to the domestic, and in particular, on a federal level. Historically race issues differed between states, and while there may still be variation regarding perceptions between more conservative or more liberal states, a discussion of federal policy regarding race will allow wider conclusions to be drawn. Race can be considered to encompass issues of governmental policy, party policy, public perceptions and political strategy. If race is viewed in this way it is possible to attempt to separate political and legislative conceptions of race from discussions of individual discrimination. The former is the focus for this paper. All of these factors become heightened during election years, where race continues to divide people, even within the same party. Notably, the emergence Tea Party faction on the Republican side, a platform for conservative populist discontent demonstrates views held are not true of all of the Republican Party; furthermore, it may not necessarily represent views of all Tea Party movements, as there is no single Tea Party.  [6]  It is the nature of US political parties to encompass huge variation within the main parties. Election years provide an increased awareness of the political, and as such will provide recent examples of the trends in racial politics. This c an be seen presently through the debate over Obamas place of birth; with the administration choosing to release the long birth certificate before the next election cycle. The argument will proceed through three substantive sections; firstly a discussion of race and the electorate; second, the factors which continue to shape racial inequality; and finally governing, including an analysis of candidate choice. Race and class Recent shifts in the American demographic are crucial to understanding how race as an issue has changed, particularly in the post-Bush era. This change in administration provided substantive change in some areas, but arguably not during the 2008 campaign period. Minorities did, and will, continue to be a secondary concern while White voters retain plurality status, this notion featured prominently in the 2008 general election, as voting statistics suggest parties will continue to bring White issues to the forefront in order to win elections. It can be seen that there is a glaring ideological disconnect between the desire and reality of a race-free society.  [7]  Teasley and Ikard, in their article The Myth of Postracism suggest the danger of complete investment in postracial thinking, particularly for the most economically vulnerable African American population. The prominent liberal view of racial policy suggests a cautious approach, favouring the idea of a colour blind society. While it is suggested that there is no currently viable alternative to a liberal vision of race, it can be inferred that at least racialism as a theory acknowledges the persistence of racism in America.  [8]  Critical Race Theory (CRT) favours a race conscious approach, reliant upon political organisation. In arguing the need for CRT, Metzler presents an argument for why the term postracial is meaningless as a critique.  [9]  Usefully, the theory also allows for intersections between race, class and sex. A basic premise is that while electoral decisions may claim to be colour blind they are actually steeped in racist ideology.  [10]  For example, it can be argued that race as a political factor will be avoided as much as possible; unless a politicians political survival depends on it. Example 2008 or Sotomoyar The premise of a race neutral campaign is to develop a coalition of support, regardless of race. Yet ultimately, there remains a divergence as to why different r acial groups voted for Obama, while many Whites voted for Obama as a way to move beyond race, many Blacks voted for him as a way to vindicate the entire Black race.  [11]  While the term vindicate may be unnecessarily emotive, the notion of collective Black support for Obama is significant as an example of the continual relevance of race in US electoral politics and the differing motives for voting behaviour. The mere suggestion that issues still exist as Black or White demonstrates the continuing importance of race. After his 2000 election victory, Bush was famously advised that if he did not improve his minority vote, he would be unable to win the next election. The pattern of immigration in the US has left the country with a large multicultural demographic. The nature of such immigration, being both forced through slavery, and voluntary, is a relatively unique phenomenon; as such racial issues are historically rooted in much of American society. This seems to make some of the electorate, particularly minorities, more inclined to talk about race, while often having the opposite affect among White voters. Due to the growth in minority populations, there has been a proportional decrease to the White population. In 2008, the Black population alone comprised 12.8% of the population. The national census of 2010 puts this original figure at 12.6%, demonstrating a further demographic shift, wi th African Americans no longer comprising the majority minority, with the Black population comprising a smaller proportion than other minority groups.  [12]  This suggests a limit to traditional oppositional binaries of Black vs. White, with new minorities gaining ever increasing populations, and in theory increasing significance. Binaries remain important, but it is important to realise that they do not always give us a complete picture; as an increasing number of citizens describing themselves as multi-racial, 3.4% in the last census.  [13]  However, in the 2008 election focus was not given evenly to each minority group. Perhaps because some minority groups are more valuable when translated into votes, or perhaps because some groups are more politically active than others. South Asian voters had a huge impact on the democratic primaries in 2008, particularly in California, yet the binary view continued to dominate discussions. This may have been a temporary fluctuation, en couraged by the race between a Black candidate and a White candidate for the presidency. Yet it seems that the trend is actually a continuation from a longstanding history of dealing in terms of Black and White issues of race. The Black community also remains much more vocal than other minority groups, particularly more assimilated Asian voters. Ultimately, binaries remain useful in demonstrating the importance of race in contemporary politics, as it remains that conflicts between Black issues and White issues are at the forefront of debate, particularly with regard to healthcare and education. In the 1990s, Bill Clinton restored the Democratic Partys competitiveness by mostly avoiding the race-specific rhetoric and policies that had helped drive disaffected White voters toward the Republican opposition. The boom he presided over produced political and economic benefits for African-American families as well as well as Whites, making him popular with both groups. Comparing this to the situation in 2008; a deeper analysis of Obamas poll numbers [à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦] indicates that very little changed in terms of voting habits in this election cycle.  [14]  Thus, on the surface it seems significant that Obama has successfully reproduced the polling numbers of Clinton, a White Southerner, adding substance to the post-racial argument.  [15]  Yet in context, Obama was nominated during a period of frustration with the outgoing Republican administration, at a time of economic uncertainty, and when a generation of African Americans had won elected office. Thus it can be seen how race as a domestic issue is closely interlinked with other factors, notably feeling toward the outgoing administration and the fluctuating state of the economy. As such, examples which are often cited to demonstrate the decreasing significance of race can actually be at least partially attributed to other factors. The socioeconomic divide in America is expanding; in a multiracial society where the races are unequal, there will often be a racial dimension to class differences, for class is an efficient recoder of racism.  [16]  Reed suggests that this is an historical trend, built on the back of enslaved Africans, as such, for Reed, race and colour have always been the ultimate determinants of socioeconomic status.  [17]  Yet it seems that the greatest divide came long after the period of reconstruction. Since 1970 the socioeconomic divide has become more evident; while the status of the most disadvantaged members of the minority population deteriorated, that of the advantaged has notably improved.  [18]  This is clearest in relation to the Black American population. As such, it seems that race becomes less important because of socioeconomic factors. The rate of improvement is also notable; in several areas, such as college attendance, Blacks [à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦] have made those improv ements at a relatively faster rate than the reported progress of comparable Whites.  [19]  Thus, the fact that the number of Blacks enrolled full-time at colleges and universities nearly doubled between 1970 and 1980 (to over 1 million) demonstrates that there is a growing economic schism between lower-income and higher-income Black families, with the lower members of the community being left behind.  [20]  Policies such as affirmative action enhance this trend, doing more for the more advantaged members of Black communities compared to those from lower incomes. With race being so closely connected to socioeconomic conditions, it only increases its importance as a factor in US politics as the subject becomes broader. Hooks divides the Black community into class groups, and suggests that this has a considerable impact on perceptions by both the Black and the White community.  [21]  The impact of this has been to divide the Black community into sub groups, with many of the higher-income families becoming increasingly assimilated with the White community. As a basic concept this is still relevant, yet much of what Hooks outlined has become dated. Hooks argued that class-based racial integration disrupted what he terms, racial solidarity in essence; that previously class standing was irrelevant to the Black community, but increased integration has erased this bond between communities.  [22]  While it can be accepted that there did exist a sense of community, it is not true to say this has diminished to the extent which Hooks believed. Significantly, it seems the nomination of Obama reignited a sense of Black community; the mobilisation of Black voters can be attributed to a growing sense of g roup consciousness and empowerment.  [23]  Yet what is more convincing, is Hooks argument regarding communities. The emergence of what has been termed, a Black middle class, has led to wealth being removed from communities, leaving the poor and underclass as isolated segregated communities.  [24]   Race and the media It is important to consider whether race can continue to be discussed independently, or if class is now a more important issue. It seems the two issues are, and have been, fundamentally intertwined, due to long standing inequalities linking back to before the Civil War. However, the extent of this has changed, and the emergence of Black middle class has led class to move toward the forefront of political discussions of race. It is significant to discuss how and why the public produce conceptions of race, with particular emphasis on the role of the media as a source. As a nation, America emerged from a unique system of oppression and slavery. As such, race remains deeply rooted in the lives of many Americans. In an age where post-racial politics seems to be a common aspiration, for electoral benefit as much as for issues of equality, it is important to realise how race continues to appear on the political agenda. Some significant events can be cited in contemporary American politics a s periods of change. The terrorist attacks of September 2001 permanently altered American domestic and foreign policy and new issues of race were raised with the growing politicisation of Islamophobia. More recently, with regard to the binaries discussed so far, came the political impact of hurricane Katrina in 2005. Worst affected by this disaster was the city of New Orleans, which had a substantial Black population. The suffering of the people of New Orleans allowed the Democratic Party to establish itself as an alternative; and allowed it to distinguish itself through the racial politics of hurricane Katrina. It gave the Democrats the chance to put race onto the political agenda, yet arguably Obama attempted to distance himself from this strategy. This task was made easier for the Democrats due to a period of highly publicised racial shaming. By the time of the 2008 election, the Democrats were seen as a viable alternative to the Republican Party, who were famously said not to ca re about Black people.  [25]  This quote from an influential Black performer became a popular sound bite, demonstrating the importance of the media, and as such it did much to contribute to Bushs unpopularity. Following hurricane Katrina, many people sought to answer the question of whether its social effects and the government response to the countrys biggest natural disaster had more to do with race or class. Or if again, they were unavoidably linked. An argument surrounds the prominence race received as a factor in the Katrina disaster. While liberals could be accused of citing race in an attempt to reference a wider, more historic discrimination against Blacks, it was not an effective strategy as it did little to alter government policy. Therefore, although addressing Katrina as a race issue had a profound effect on the electorate, it was only later that it began to really influence policy. However, it seems that concluding class to be a more significant factor, is to divert attention away from race, thus [discouraging] a deeper discussion about the ways race and class intertwine.  [26]  Ultimately, Katrina is a prime example of the intrinsic way race and class are intertwined, largely due to the historical nature of racism in the region, in relation to housing and neighbourhood distribution. Few comparisons were made between White and Black residents, but as Lavelle and Feagin suggest; only 17% of Whites lacked access to a car to evacuate with, compared to 60% of Black residents.  [27]  Media images showed nearly all those left suffering in New Orleans were Black Americans, making it seem like a race issue; however those in more financially stable positions were able to live in safer areas, those families most able to afford homes in safer flood-protected areas and that had resources to evacuate easily suffered much less than poorer families, seemingly suggesting a class issue. Furthermore, what is also significant about the Katrina example is the way in which the media reported the story. The media are one of the most effective methods of communication across the US, as such, what is reported is highly influential among the electorate; It is universally accepted that mass media hold great power, as they transmit information to the public and are free to highlight certain news items and ignore others, setting the agenda of public life and creating consensus or disagreement on certain issues.  [2 8]  However, it took until September, a month after the disaster, for the media story to shift from stories of Black crime to the failures of government in mediating the disaster. Representation of race in the media has often contained rigid stereotypes, particularly with regard to the traditional binaries. This becomes increasingly problematic when it is considered that the portrayal may equate to the only contact a member may have with a particular racial group. In a study carried out by Johnson, he highlighted this dilemma; questioning the consequences; If somebody is living in Boston, and all their information on Black Bostonians comes from the media, what does that look like?  [29]  Johnson purported that White owned media in Boston tended to report more according to stereotypes than the Black owned media. While it was the Black owned agencies that were said to carry more positive stories, alongside the negative. Conducting a follow up to this initial study in the 1980s, Johnson looked at the distribution of coverage at the turn of the century. While crime stories continue to top the kind of coverage given to African Americans, the percentage of this coverage has dropped. Among Black owned media, education stories became central, with crime stories being placed much lower. Perceptions are crucial in politics, particularly in such a vast nation as America. Kellstedt suggests that there is a lack of substantive evidence supporting the notion that media coverage of race actually affects public opinion in any systematic way, yet he goes on to assert that it is an underlying assumption that the media has helped shape the course of race politics.  [30]  Due to their communicative role, the way the media chose to relay stories, or even the choice in stories they portray, have a profound impact in the electorate; there is a discourse of racism that advances the interests of Whites and that has an identifiable repertoire of words, images, and practices through which racial power is applied.  [31]  However, although the media still dominate communication, candidates are having an increasingly close relationship with the electorate through mediums such as social networking. As such, it seems candidates are getting increasing access to the electorate, thus racial issues can be dealt with or avoided, as the candidates chose. Of course this is relative, and the media will always retain the power of scrutiny, as is the nature in a liberal democracy. If the media shape the political agenda in the aforementioned way, then what constitutes a racial issue? It seems any number of issues could constitute a racial issue. For example, with regard to education the percentage rates of high school graduates can be used to summarise that Black students are still failing at an alarming rate compared with White students.  [32]  Or with regard to housing; although overt discrimination is no longer practiced, other practices still take place to isolate minorities from the housing market. Issues regarding joblessness, healthcare and criminal justice all continue to disproportionally affect people of colour. But what is important to question is whether these issues should be framed as racial issues, or whether this in itself is an acknowledgement of a continual inequality. If the nation were to truly adopt colour blind policies, then the theory would suggest that issues should be discussed independently from race. As such, a policy about the environment should be isolated, even though it may impact disproportionately communities of colour. But if these issues are no longer treated in isolation, politicians can be accused of pandering towards affirmative action, which is still viewed sceptically by many of the electorate. To acknowledge that so many political issues can become issues of race acknowledges the uniqueness of race as an issue area. Whether the trade-off between isolating policies is acceptable, or desirable, gets to the heart of racial policy in the USA. Is Race neutrality possible? Finally, it will be useful to look at the last presidential campaign, in order to discuss whether it can be concluded that the campaign was race neutral, and why this may have been an aspiration to so many candidates.  [33]  While this may have been the intention, partisan strategy among other factors, ensured that race was not allowed to remain off the political agenda. This continued to be true in light of the 2010 midterm elections, even though Obama was not on the ticket, much discussion among the media was once again given to his African American status and the impact this would have. Race can be seen to affect politics both implicitly and explicitly. Candidate choice was undoubtedly the aspect of race occupied most by the media. The beginning of the campaign was in line with the notion of an inclusive America. Yet the campaign shifted with the widespread circulation of Reverend Wrights sermon, in which he controversially said, the government lied about weapons of mass destruction in Iraq being a threat to the United States peace.  [34]  Obamas candidacy became very clearly race bound. At this point Obama had to justify himself in racial terms, which was a strategy which had been avoided until this point. The significance of what has since been termed Obamas race speech in 2008 is not just that it was the first point in the campaign that race became openly discussed, but it is rather what Obama did in this speech, he acknowledged the continual tensions; a part of our union we have yet to perfect.  [35]  He demonstrated that he was a clear personification o f both oppositional binaries, while offering an ability to transcend them. Black support can be seen to be both a strength and weakness for democrats. Black support can alienate other groups of voters, traditionally there have been tensions between the Black and Hispanic communities.  [36]  De-racialization is seen during campaigning when candidates attempt to avoid explicit references to race issues, in attempt to remain inclusive. Concurrently, candidates use implicit strategies such as using racial symbolic Black and Latino faces in their literature; while putting increased emphasis on issues which are perceived to be racially transcendent and ultimately, attempt to appeal to a broad selection of the electorate.  [37]  Thus even when race is not vocalised during an election, it still plays a vital role. Charles Hamilton first proposed a race neutral strategy in 1973,  [38]  Obama has been said to follow such strategy, in that he did so much to avoid discussing race as an aspect of his campaign.  [39]  The supposed advantage of such avoida nce is to encompass the widest possible selection of the electorate. With regard to voting behaviour, issues need to be directed at those who will provide the swing vote. There are limitations on the political power and influence of minorities, thus making it rational for parties to focus on the White majority, and to use deracialisation strategies.  [40]  For example, Democrats traditionally receive a disproportionate share of the minority vote, as such, it is in their interest to direct policy to White issues because they can rely on receiveing Black votes regardless; thus, the United States has racially polarized politics while race, itself, is depoliticised.  [41]  The running of a race neutral campaign is an acknowledgement in itself of the importance of race. If accepting that Black and White voters continue to prioritise different issue areas, it is also true to acknowledge that the running of a race-neutral campaign can be difficult to balance. The aim is to attract White voters without losing a connection to the Black community. Race will continue to be an issue even after the election period ends. With regard to Obama, it is again a new phenomenon; if it assumed that the race neutral campaign will extend to an attempt at race neutral governing, then Obama will continue to avoid the issue of race. This has been seen through the first half of his first term. Race issues are not overtly mentioned unless completely necessary. However this is not due to Obamas skilled pragmatism. In fact, it seems Obama may be constrained by those who elected him in the first place, as well as by the partisan tactics of the Republican opposition. If Obama had mounted a concerted series of racial policy issues, then White voters may have felt alienated. A lot of the early fears from the campaign would be perceived to be correct: for example that Obama was an African American; interested in prioritising minority issues. This goes against the intended pluralistic nature of US politics. Reed claims that Americans will have to mount a concerted effort to have Obama promote anything regarded as a Black issue.  [42]  Thus, have African American issues actually been side-lined and consequently jeopardised through the election of the countrys first Black president. If Obama does continue to down play racial issues, Conservative arguments declaring the irrelevance of race will be strengthened.  [43]  Conservatives use Obamas image as a sign that racism is dead, while at the same time evoking race strategies against him.  [44]  Race becomes an unavoidable issue of cont Toyota: Sustainable Strategies And Global Success Toyota: Sustainable Strategies And Global Success The global auto industry is a key sector of the economy for every major country in the world. A huge invests in research, development and production result in gaining high industry performance (OICA, 2010). The high competition of key players in automotive include; BMW, FIAT, Ford, General Motor, Honda, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Peugeot Citroen, Toyota, Renault, Volkswagen, Hyundai and Daimler à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦..(Datamonitor, 2010). Toyota Motor Corporation has become one of the most successful companies in the world today. In 2010, Toyota was ranked number 5 of the worlds largest corporations (Fortune, 2010) and number 11 of the best global brands (Interbrand, 2010). It is also considered as the most profitable organisation of automobile (Datamonitor, 2010). For almost 15 years J.D Power and other research firms have consistently rated Toyota and its luxury line, Lexus, among the top automotive brand. Over 50 years automotive operation worldwide and its launched the world first commercial hybrid car, Prius, enhance Toyota more strengthen and gaining high competitive advantage over the rivals in term of its reputation and reliability, initial quality, and long-term durability (J.D Power, 2010; Stewart and Raman, 2007). Thus, study of Toyota international business operation could be provided distinctive knowledge for researcher in term of strategic implementation from some well-known literatures and an investigation of some facts and information could enhance more analytical skills. Therefore, this report will start with the analysis of automobile industry including; market overview, market size and it competition situation. Follow by the reviews of Toyota Motor Corporation. Then, it strategic management will be examined. After that, Toyota performance assessment will be scrutinized. Strategic analysis will be provided in order to obtain deep analysis of corporation. Finally, conclusion part will be summarised all information according to the researchers study. 1. Automobile Industry 1.1 Market Overview Due to the progressive globalization, the climate change and the idea of air quality improvement, automobile manufacturers have put more efforts to create sustainable development which is to minimise fuel consumption and exhaust emission (UNEP, 2002). They have also made use of advanced technological solution to reduce waste and emission in the factories as well as to improve the vehicle safety and recycling ideas (Oliver Wyman, 2010; UNEP, 2002). Moreover, it is very crucial for the industry to continue the concept of great product design and innovative development such as the initiative in hybrid technology (Sturgeon, 2009, Oliver Wyman, 2010). In addition, Sturgeon et. al. (2009) explained four characteristics of the automobile industry which are: A small number of huge firms have more power than small companies. Eleven huge and dominant companies from three countries including Japan, Germany, and the USA. The automobile industry has developed strong regional structure along with globalisation integration. The final product assembly of vehicle has been moved to the home market due to political sensitivity issues. There are only few generic parts and component systems that can be fit to all products. Therefore, it has to be customised before production. The automobile markets condition has also been driven by globalization which can be divided into four categories Market globalisation drivers, Cost globalsation drivers, Government globalisation drivers, and Competitive globalisation drivers (YIP, 1992). The firms should understand and recognize these drivers in order to evaluate and gain their competitive advantages. Analysis of the globalisation drivers for the automotive industry is demonstrated in Figure 1. Figure 1: Yips globalization drivers of automobile industry Source: Authors own 1.2 Market Size The global market of new cars has been recovered from a decline in value in 2008. In 2009, the market rose by 2.7% and reached a value of $1,019.2 billion while its combined annual market growth rate was just 2.1% during 2005 2009. According to the pie chart shown on Figure 2, Toyota Motor Corporation took a 15.3% share of the markets volume being a leader in the market, compared to Volkswagen (14.2% ) and Ford (8.1%) (Datamonitor, 2010). Figure 2: Market size and share of automobile Source: Adapted from Datamonitor (2010) 1.3 Porters Five Forces Porters five forces (Porter, 1980) is the crucial tool to be used to analyse the important forces that determined the competitive power of automobile industry as illustrated in figure 3 understand both the strength of your current competitive position, and the strength of a position youre considering moving into. Figure 3: Porters five forces Source: Authors own Threat of New Entrants It can be said that there is low threat of new entrants in the automobile industry since it has reached the mature stage of the product life cycle. If a new company wants to enter the market, it needs to achieve economic of scale cost reduction and mass production. Consequently, the new comer is required to have a huge amount of capital in order to own its automotive manufacture and innovative technology. Moreover, it is quite difficult for a new player to have its distribution channel and dealers due to the strong channel of the key companies and their reputation. Bargaining Power of Suppliers In order to produce a vehicle, it consists of many components perform final product assembly. A lot of suppliers are then involved in production process. They are very similar due to the fact that raw materials are not different. As a result, it will be very easy to change suppliers since they have low bargaining power. Bargaining Power of Buyers Consumers are the main players in this industry since the automotive business depends on them. It is not difficult for them to switch the brands if they are not satisfied. However, in order to purchase a new car, they have to deal with a dealer only. Therefore, it can be said that there is moderately high bargaining power of the buyers in the automotive industry. Threat of Substitute Products Public transport, walking, cycling etc. can be substitute products for automobiles. Also, the geographic location has considerable effect on consumers purchasing decision. People in Venice, for example, travel by boat only. However, it will be more convenient to use automobile in order to go to most places. Consequently, threat of substitute products is moderately low. Intensity of Rivalry among Competitors There is very high intensity of rivalry among competitors due to a lack of product differentiation. It is found that the key players in the industry are fairly balanced; therefore, one can easily gain the others market share. As a consequence, in order to advertise a product, the company has to consider and compare all aspects including quality, price, durability, and others to its competitors. 1.4 Strategic Groups Analysis Porter (1980) defined a strategic group as a group of companies in an industry which implement similar strategy. According to figure 4, it can be seen that the mass market follows cost leadership strategy while differentiation strategy is implemented by the luxury group (Peng, 2009). The ultra-luxury group generally utilises focus strategy (Peng, 2009). For Toyota Motor Corporation, Toyota and Scion brands are developed by cost leadership strategy to compete in the mass market whereas it distributes Lexus brand for Luxury market (Toyota, 2010). Figure 4: Strategic group analysis Source: Adapted from Peng (2008) and Henry (2008) Furthermore, Oliver Wyman (2010) suggested that the automobile industry can be split up onto two different types of companies including mega groups and independent champions. Mega groups have their own manufacturers, technologies, platforms, and engines whereas independent champions depend on channel resources and their networks. Consequently, Toyota has been considered as maga groups due to the reasons above. This can be illustrated by successful OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) paradigm as shown in figure 5. Figure 5: Successful OEM diagram Source: Adapted from Oliver Wyman (2010) 2. TOYOTA Motor Corporation 2.1 Company Background Toyota Motor Corporation, a Japanese automaker, was established in 1937 by Kiichiro Toyoda (Toyota, 2010). Owning to its solid finance and an increase in demand of vehicles, it had become one of the strongest carmaker around mid-2008 (IHS, 2010). This is also because of its potential business strategy focusing on product innovation and its production efficiency (Takeuchi, Osono, and Shimizu, 2008). Finally, in 2010, Toyota was ranked number 5 of the worlds largest corporations (Fortune, 2010) and number 11 of the best global brands (Interbrand, 2010) 2.2 TOYOTA Global Vision 2020 Toyotas vision is to investigate and balance the relationship between the cycles of nature and the cycles of industry. Thus, its slogan is Open the Frontiers of Tomorrow which expresses the desire of Toyota and the efforts of its employees toward the realization of societys dreams in order to build a way to a new world. The Toyota group believes that it can be accomplished though the energy of people and technology (Figure 6) (Toyota, 2010). Figure 6: Toyota global vision 2020 Source: Adapted from Toyota (2010) 2.3 TOYOTA Biodiversity Guideline Biodiversity framework (Figure 7), one of the sustainability principles of Toyota, was developed in order to emphasise on three areas; contributions through technology, collaboration and cooperation with society, and information disclosure (Toyota, 2010). Figure 7: Toyota biodiversity guideline Source: Adapted from Toyota (2010) 2.4 TOYOTA Corporate Social Responsibility Toyota CSR policy consists of three main areas including social, environmental, and economic aspects (Figure 8). Based on its guideline principle, Toyota implements all business activities in order to create harmonious and sustainable society in each country (Toyota, 2010). Figure 8: Toyota CSR policy Source: Adapted from Toyota (2010) 3. Toyota Strategic Management 3.1 The Toyota Way In 1935, Sakichi Toyoda, the founder of the company, originally purposed five key principles to develop company and its employees beliefs (Toyota, 2010). After that, in order to provide rigorous training to the new generation of its employees, the company realised that these five important principles should be documented and divided into two pillars (Figure 9) which are Continuous improvement and Respect for people (Toyota, 2010, Stewart and Raman, 2007). For the first pillar, Continuous improvement can be called Kaizen which is Toyotas basic business management (Liker, 2004). It also focuses on individual learning and improvement by evaluating ones self and being creative in order to achieve goals. Also, Toyota presents its second pillar by providing employment security and developing employees participation and responsibility in order to build understanding, trust, and loyalty among the team members (Liker, 2004). Figure 9: The Toyota way Source: Adapted from Toyota (2010) 3.2 New JIT a Management Technology Strategy Model of Toyota A unique business strategy of Toyota called New JIT (Figure 10) has brought about its successful management and operation in the global market. New JIT is a management technology strategy model including three key areas; Toyota Marketing System (TMS), Toyota Production System (TPS), and Toyota Development System (TDS) (Amasaka, 2002, 2007). Figure 10: A management strategy model Source: Amasaka (2002) 3.3 Toyota Production System (TPS) Toyota production System (TPS) is the distinctive production system which enhances Toyota gaining higher competitive advantage over it competitors (Toyota, 2010; Amasaka, 2002; Takeuchi, Osono, and Shimizu, 2008). Taiichi Ohno invented TSP strategy in late 50s. Today this strategy became one of the most production efficiency in the world and many leading company use this platform extensively as an ideal prototype (Toyota, 2010; Takeuchi, Osono, and Shimizu, 2008). TPS designed House platform which mean that everyone can understand how it works (Figure 11). Toyotas global strategy on production is simple: Toyota Production Systems (TPS). TPS was designed by Taiichi Ohno who was in charge of production for Toyota after WWII. Ohno implemented this strategy in the 1950s and 60s and today Toyota is one of the worlds most efficient factories because of TPS. The goal of TPS is to provide the best quality, lowest cost, and shortest lead time through the elimination of waste (Toyota, 2010, Amasaka, 2002). Below is the actual Toyota Production System layout in its form of a house.(Figure 11). Figure 11: Toyota production system Source: Toyota (2010) 3.4 Key Management Drivers Takeuchi, Osono, and Shimizu (2008) pointed out the key of Toyotas success called Toyota six forces. It is influencing contradictions inside Toyota organisation can be divided into three forces of expansion and three forces of integration. Three forces of expansion causes changes and improvements in the company which are include setting impossible goals or near-unattainable goals from the view point of senior executives, local customization by producing products to suit local market needs and customise business operations under the same platform in each country and region, and experimentation that Toyotas eagerness to experiment helps it clear the hurdles that stand in the way of achieving near impossible goals. Another three forces of integration controls the balance between expansion and transformation. It can be seen this integration from values from the Toyota founders vision commitment and performance, up-and-in people management, and open communication to all level of employee closely. 4. Assessing Toyota Performance 4.1 Brand and Product Performance In the market of passenger cars, Toyota owns and operates 3 major brands; Toyota, Lexus and Scion (Toyota, 2010). Toyota offers more than 116 models distributing through different segments and provides customised models to attract local customers of each region in order to increase its sales volume (IHS, 2010). It can be seen Toyotas model strategy as shown in Figure 12. Figure 12: Model strategy Source: Adapred from Toyota (2010) 4.2 Global Operation and Expansion According to figure 13, on March 31st, 2010, Toyota had got 300,000 employees and 66 plants in 27 countries and regions with approximately 170 distributors and 8,000 dealers worldwide (Toyota, 2010). The efficient Toyota Production System (TPS) and high RD lead Toyota to a stronger position than its rivals in the automobile market (Takeuchi, Osono, and Shimizu, 2008). According to Toyota (2010) the number of vehicle had produced in FY2010 were 6,809,000 units. It was decreased slightly when compared to last four years. The major products which distribute worldwide came from Japan plants (58.1%) follow by Asia (15.6%) and North America (15.3%) (Figure 14) (Toyota, 2010). Regarding to distribution strategy, there are two main logistical concepts which are regional bases approach and dock-based approach are implemented by Toyota (Toyota, 2010). Despite the fact that Toyotas head office is located in Japan, its subsidiaries were founded over the world in order to create multiple regional headquarters including North America, Asia, Europe, and others ; (IHS, 2010). This means that the company can utilise localisation strategy to satisfy different customers needs in each country. On the other hand, dock-based operation is used to manage the inspections and quality control before distributing to the regional dealers again (Toyota, 2010). Figure 13: Toyota operation Source: Toyota (2010) Figure 14: Toyota production Source: Toyota (2010) 4.3 Financial Performance During FY 2010, Toyota posted better-than-expected results despite the global massive recall saga, which affected almost 10 million vehicles worldwide. For the 12 months ending 31 March 2010, the automaker returned to profitability on the back of swift cost-cutting measures and strong sales recovery in major markets, including Asia, rebounding from its first-ever annual loss posted during the previous fiscal year. The automaker posted a net profit of  ¥209.4 billion (US$2.25 billion) during FY 2010, compared with a net loss of  ¥437.0 billion during the previous fiscal year. Operating profit stood at  ¥147.5 billion, versus an operating loss of  ¥461.0 billion during the previous fiscal year, while pre-tax profit at the company stood at  ¥291.4 billion, compared with a pre-tax loss of  ¥560.4 billion, respectively. The significant improvement in operating earnings was largely thanks to  ¥520 billion in savings through cost-cutting efforts, and  ¥470.0 billion in savin gs through a reduction in fixed costs. Revenues at the company declined by 7.7% y/y, however, from  ¥20.5 trillion to almost  ¥19.0 trillion, as a result of the drop in vehicle demand in major markets, including North America and Europe, and unfavourable currency translation effects. Figure 15: Financial performance Source:Toyota (2010) 5 Toyota Strategic Analysis 5.1 Competitive Strategy According to Porters generic strategy (Porter, 1980), it can be said that Toyota is placed in the group of stuck in the middle. However, Thompson and Strickland (2008) mentioned this strategy could be named as Best-cost provider since Toyota offers customers more value for money low cost products with comparable quality and features. This is because of Toyotas revolutionary lean production system based on product differentiation strategy with understanding of customers, rather than a relentless pursuit of cost reduction in the cost leader category (Thompson and Strickland, 2008). As shown on Figure 16. Figure 16: Toyotas competitive strategy Source: Authors own 5.2 Core Competency One main characteristic that Toyota always emphasises is Quality. Consumers make their decision to buy this brand because of its reliability and its durability. Moreover, in order to stress its quality, it has been said that the vehicles are Made by Toyota. This means that the quality of its vehicles is exactly the same even though they are produced from different part of the world (Toyota, 2010). However, there is another remarkable feature that Toyota has made efforts to create and present in order to change consumers perception. It is Innovation. In 2000, Toyota launched Pirus Hybrid to introduce its sustainable technology (Toyota, 2010). This product gained customers attention and were sold out about a million in the mid of the year. As a result, Full hybrid has become its core competent technology in 2010 (Toyota, 2010). Last but not least, it is its unique production system called Toyota Production System (TPS). This system includes Just-In-Time (JIT), one-piece flow, Kaizen (continue to improve), Jidoka (automotive stop), and Heijunka (leveled production) leading Toyota to provide the best quality, the lowest cost, the shortest lead time, and the best safety (Amasaka, 2002). Consequently, Toyota can achieve highly competitive advantages over its competitors. 5.3 SWOT Analysis Strengths The strong reputation and brand image is a significant competitive advantage to boost companys sales in both domestic and international market. Consumers recognize Toyota brand and its popularity so they are more willing to pay for its premium products. Research and Development (RD) has been emphasised to ensure and enhance its quality and its safety. Also, Toyota always pays more attention on environmental compatibility when developing new products. With its strong and powerful distribution channel and dealer network, Toyota can distribute and sell its products through 170 distributors and 8,000 dealers across the world. Toyota Production System (TPS) has been successfully developed leading Toyota to gain efficient production with the best quality, the lowest cost, and the shortest lead-time. Weaknesses Due to two safety recalls announced by Toyota, consumers have less confidence in its products and its brand image. This also has a significant impact on companys share price causing a drop of stock exchanges in Japan and overseas. Employees pension fund has been decreasing owning to the financial instability. Toyota has been forced by regulation about unfunded pension; therefore the company cannot control its liquidity position. Opportunities Regulation about energy saving and emission provides a great opportunity to Toyota since it has been developed Prius, a hybrid vehicles over the years. Hybrid technology is one of the most valuable competitive advantages of Toyota enhancing it to gain higher market position. In the next ten years, China, India, and South East Asian countries are forecast to be a key driving automotive market. Therefore, Toyota should take this opportunity to obviously present its brand in the Asain markets which could help increase its market share effectively. Due to many new cars launched by Toyota during 2009-2010, the company will be able to gain higher customer interest contributing greatly to companys sales growth. The global automobile industry has been recovered from the economic recession and is expected to gradually accelerate in next year. Toyotas products and service can be expanded since they can be sold and distributed through its distribution network over the world. Threats Since there is high competition in the automobile industry, sale of Toyotas vehicles may be low and affect the companys finance and operation. Due to the different emission standard in different country, Toyota who sells and distributes products and service to more than 100 countries has additional cost in order to test, develop, and manufacture each product for each country. Toyotas financial status is quite sensitive to foreign currency exchange fluctuation, especially the Euro, and the US dollar affecting material cost and price of products sold in foreign currencies. Conclusion The key success of Toyota based on the integration of its competitive advantage and its business philosophy of understanding people as well as balancing cycles of nature and industry. The constant RD and excellent product innovation have a massive effect on Toyotas performance its market growth and its market share. The operational excellence is implemented as a strategic weapon in order to improve its products and quality through its production strategy. The Toyota Production System (TPS) is efficiently developed and effectively integrated with Toyota Marketing System (TMS) and Toyota Development System (TDS). Local customisations and multi-segmentations build Toyota more powerful than its rivals and gain positive perception from local consumers.

The Battle of Vimy Ridge: A Symbol of Canadian National Pride & Awarene

The years since the Battle of Vimy Ridge may have passed quickly, but the legacy of the Canadians whose accomplishments were great in that pivotal First World War battle lives on. Many people claim to this day that Canada came of age as a country on those hard April days in 1917. At first, through the meticulous planning of the battle, the world saw a nation capable of working together and making decisions as a team. Afterwards, with the range of technical and tactical innovations involved in the attack, the world saw a strong nation unafraid to protect and defend. In the end, through great sacrifice the world bore witness to the birth of the Canadian legacy. To conclude that the nation was born on April 9th 1917, on the Artois plains is to deny over three centuries of history during which the ancestors of millions of Canadians devoted their lives to building the country. This is why the Battle of Vimy Ridge wasn’t the birth of Canada itself, but the birth of our legacy- the à ¢â‚¬Ëœtrue’ origin of our nation. Planning is one of the, if not the most, important element of war. This is why the hard-work Canadian military forces put into planning for the attack on Vimy Ridge earned the nation much deserved respect in the eyes of other countries around the world. Germany captured Vimy Ridge early in the war and made it into a strong defensive position, consisting of a huge system of tunnels and trenches manned by soldiers with machine guns and artillery pieces. Previous Allied attacks on Vimy Ridge in 1914 and 1915 had cost the British and French hundreds of thousands of casualties and had been mostly unsuccessful.The planning and preparations for the attack were extensive, and time consuming. The Canadians were trained rigorously. Models of... ...eterans Affairs Canada. http://www.veterans.gc.ca/eng/remembrance/memorials/overseas/first-world-war/france/vimy/battle (accessed April 4, 2014). Canadian War Museum. "The Battle of Vimy Ridge, 9-12 April 1917." WarMuseum.ca. http://www.warmuseum.ca/cwm/exhibitions/vimy/index_e.shtml (accessed April 2, 2014). "The Nationalism Project: Ernest Renan Defining the Nation." The Nationalism Project. http://www.nationalismproject.org/what/renan.htm (accessed April 4, 2014). "Vimy Ridge." Library and Archives Canada. http://www.collectionscanada.gc.ca/first-world-war/interviews/025015-1200-e.html#a.essay (accessed April 4, 2014). "Vimy Ridge." The Canadian Encyclopedia. http://www.thecanadianencyclopedia.com/en/article/vimy-ridge/ (accessed April 3, 2014). "firstworldwar.com." First World War. http://www.firstworldwar.com/battles/vimyridge.htm (accessed April 4, 2014).

Computer Direct-Sellers :: Internet Technology Essays

Computer Direct-Sellers Computers and computer sales have evolved rapidly over the past few decades. Purchasing computers no longer has to involve an intermediate sales person. You can order your computer direct from the manufacturer through the Internet. Although there are many computer direct sellers, I am analyzing three of their web sites, Dell, IBM and Gateway. I chose these based on their similarities. They are all large manufacturers that use Intel processors and they allow the buyer to select the exact specifications of the computer they wish to purchase. The first thing I would like to compare is the overall appearance of the web pages. It is important because this is how customers receive their first impression. All three web sites are attractive and have good use of color and pictures. The home pages contain many links but not enough to be overwhelming. The sites do not contain any outside ads or annoying pop ups to distract viewers. All three companies sell computers for home, small and large business, industry, government and education. Although they do sell to all different types of purchasers, each appears to be targeting a different audience. Gateway’s site has a large picture that would likely appeal to the common person. The web site’s home page alternates the use of three different pictures. One picture is of a person holding a notebook computer and refers to the notebook as a friend. Another picture shows a man sitting on the floor working on the notebook. The pictures on Gateway’s web site all contain notebooks and are showing the use of computers beyond the normal business setting. The last picture is of a man outside and refers to the office as a state of mind. Dell appeals to those looking for personal computers but focuses more on the business world. Their home page contains two pictures at a time; one with people and one of a product. These pictures change consistently when you return to the web site, most are pictures are of business or professional setting. For example, one picture portrays Dell as a way to expand a strategic partnership. IBM’s main target is industry. It provides services the other two web sites do not offer. This web site is focused more on these services rather than their products.

Beowulf’s Confidence Essay

Beowulf was written in the earliest age of English poetry. Back in the Anglo-Saxon times, in order to make a name for themselves, warriors had to fight in battles. They believe that you should fight until death with absolutely no retreating. Beowulf, a young Geatish warrior, comes to Hrothgar’s kingdom to return a favor to him. While Beowulf is there, he fights in two battles; the battle with Grendel and the battle with Grendel’s mother. Much later in the poem, he fights in his third battle, defeating the dragon harming his country. Beowulf’s confidence decreases as each battle occurs. In Beowulf’s battle with Grendel, Beowulf is extremely confident. This confidence is very apparent in his attitude. When he first comes to Hrothgar’s court, he tells him that he had â€Å"firm resolve when [he] set to sea† (Beowulf 22). This confidence is also apparent in Beowulf’s preparation. He chooses to abandon his armor and weapons in the fight. He very dramatically â€Å"[strips] from his shoulders the byrny of steel, / [doffs] helmet from head† (23). Beowulf has a huge advantage on Grendel because he is very strong. He is so strong that the people of his country say that his handgrip is equivalent to that of â€Å"thirty men’s strength† (15). Beowulf’s confidence is extremely evident as he prepares to fight Grendel. Beowulf prepares differently in the fight with Grendel’s mother because he is not as confident as he was in the first battle. Beowulf’s attitude while talking to Hrothgar is less confident due to the fact he is not sure of how the battle will end. He has Hrothgar pledge to â€Å"Protect [his] kinsmen, [his] trusty comrades, / If battle take [him]† (48). Beowulf also shows his confidence lessening by deciding to use armor and weapons in the battle. To prepare for the battle, he â€Å"[dons] his armor† (47) with â€Å"A gleaming helmet† (47) and â€Å"the sword the herald of Hrothgar loaned† (47). Beowulf is still somewhat strong compared to his last battle. When Grendel’s mother â€Å"[grapples] and [grasps] the warrior / With horror grip† (48, 49) and tries to â€Å"tear through the tempered mail / With her savage fingers† (49), she cannot harm him. Beowulf’s confidence is not as apparent in the second battle with Grendel’s mother. Beowulf’s confidence continues to decrease as the battle with the dragon occurs. Beowulf’s attitude was extremely negative. His heart â€Å"[is] heavy with anguish† (75). Beowulf’s confidence level is so low that he has special armor prepared for him. The king â€Å"bade work him of iron a wondrous shield, / Knowing full well that wood could not serve him / Nor linden defend him† (75) against the dragon. Beowulf’s strength has drastically changed since the beginning of the first battle. Rather than having the grip of â€Å"thirty men’s strength† (15), Beowulf â€Å"[trusts] the strength / Of his single might† (82). Beowulf shows little to no confidence in the battle with the dragon. Beowulf’s confidence lessens as each battle approaches. He goes from being a great, bold warrior with much confidence, to an old, fragile king with very little confidence. Beowulf comes to a point of weakness where he can no longer defend for himself and needs help from fellow warriors, like Wiglef. His confidence adjusted so extremely that he goes into the last battle expecting a not so good outcome. At the end of the battle with the dragon, Beowulf passes away, with his weakness and little confidence being a huge factor.

Importance of Accounting Ethics Essay

Ethics is a branch of philosophy that judge human beings on wrongs and rights concerned with the nature of value and the standards by which human actions can be judged .The term is also applied to any system or theory of moral values or principles. Accounting is the mechanism that offers information regarding the financial position of the organization or business. This type of information is critical to investors as it provides them with important and detailed information that could turn out to be the determining factor as to their decisions to invest or not to invest in a particular organization. Accounting in business is one of the most important departments. Ethical and professional accounting forms a clear financial image of a business, and allows managers to make informed decisions, keepsinvestors abreast of developments in the business, and keeps the business profitable. (Osanyin, 2008) In accounting, there is the professional ethics that guides the accounting profession. Accountants are expected to adhere to the set ethical standards which are designed to ensure that they behave in a way which is ethical and consistent. For most professional accounting organizations, accountants are certified in order to comply with ethics and they are stripped off their certificates if they fail to abide with ethical codes. Therefore, it is common to find unethical behavior in accounting profession. Some of the forms of unethical behavior in accounting are, Providing erroneous information regarding expenses incurred in business Giving out false information on expenses purposely is unethical. In accounting profession, the accountant should always provide the correct information regarding any expenses as failure to do so make the financial status of the business to be false. This affects the profit and loss reports of the business and consequently affecting the performance of the business in the long run. Exaggerating business revenue In accounting practices, all revenue in the business should be reported correctly as this can hurt investors in the company, the tax payers who may be caught up in governments bail outs and the workers at the company. By showing the correct revenue generated, this reflects the true financial position of the company. Misuse of business funds Accountants access most of the funds in the organization and it is unethical to misuse them. This can lead to the closure of the business and eventually leads to the loss of jobs and investments. Accountants should never misuse business funds and if they use it should be reported in the books of accounts and debited clearly. Some of the reasons why ethics is important in accounting are;- Confidentiality: People need to have confidence in accountants and the services they provide. Failure to do so leads to uncertainty in investors, shareholders and the work force in the organization. If the quality of the accounting is unprofessional this leads to low confidence with the stakeholders of the organization. Professional Competence: Ethics in accounting ensures that the accountants maintain professional knowledge and skills at the level required to ensure that a client or employer receives competent professional service. This is exhibited by acting diligently and in accordance with applicable technical and professional standards when providing professional services. So as to maintain law and regulations governing the accounting profession, accountants should always observe the professional ethics in their profession.