Social Influences And Class Structure Affect People s Health

Social influences and class structure affect people’s health. People who live in poverty and are at the bottom of the socioeconomic ladder have worse health than those who have more money. In essence, inequality in society is making people sick. For example, the United States is a country that has very wealthy people along with a staggering amount of poor individuals, yet it is one of the richest countries in the world. It is clear that there is a widening gap of inequality in America, and according to the film Unnatural Causes: Is Inequality Making Us Sick? (2008), the United States spends $2 trillion per year on medical care, but American citizens live shorter, sicker lives than most industrialized countries. But how is this possible? The stresses of every day life for middle and low class citizens greatly contributes to their health issues. According to Williams and Rosenstock, â€Å"differences in income are associated with differences in occupations and work environments , potentially exacerbating the overall effect of income inequality on workers’ health† (2015:616). Basically, those who work in poor conditions and make a lower income, who are clearly unequal to the richer citizens who work under better conditions, are prone to greater health risks. This gap in health between unequal classes is not coincidental. In Williams and Rosenstock’s article, they state that one measure of income inequality is the pay gap between that of a production worker and a company’s CEO andShow MoreRelatedIs Diabetes A Common Disease?1358 Words   |  6 Pages The disease that we mostly discuss that causes illness to people’s health in our society is diabetes. It is believed that 50 percent of people living in Canada have been determined to have diabetes. Diabetes is a common disease that mostly occurs with people who are in old age along with specific group of individuals. Healthcare experts are trying to find ways to improve the healthcare of individuals with diabetes by anticipating ways by providing preventing and treatment measures for patientsRead MoreArgument Essay : The Land Of Opportunity 1146 Words   |  5 PagesOpportunity, which comes from his book Lies My Teacher Told Me. In Loewen s excerpt, he discusses how many of his first time college students answer a very broad question; Why are people poor?( 213). He states that a vast majority of them answer him with half-formed and wide-eyed answers (213). Loewen claims, They have no understanding of the ways that opportunity is not equal in America and no notion that social structure pushes people around, influencing the ideas they hold and the lives they fashionRead MoreSocial Class And Its Relevance1702 Words   |  7 Pagesbeen an ongoing debate about social class and its relevance in contemporary society. Marx’s social class theory was relating to man and his access to the means of production. He stated there are two classes the bourgeo isie, those who own the means of the production and the proletariat who only possess their labour power to sell ( Ollman, 1976). Pakulski and Waters argued that social is dead, due to changes in economic and social structures along with adaptions in social identity and belonging (1996)Read MoreDrug Addiction And Socioeconomic Status1467 Words   |  6 PagesAddiction and Socioeconomic Status Noah Rewis Desert Vista High School Author’s Note This literature review was written for Mrs. Boggs Advanced Composition class Abstract Drug addiction has historically been associated with impoverished minorities. However, in recent years, drug addiction has spiked amongst the suburban middle class. While this is obviously an issue, the reasons behind drug addiction are still not entirely unclear, making responding to addiction crises difficult. The followingRead MoreEvaluating The Effectiveness Of Foreign Aid And The Millennium Development Goals978 Words   |  4 Pagesat times of crisis. Women who are also affected by class status can be greatly limited because of the resources they have. Strategies towards alleviating poverty and types of aid such as multilateral and bilateral aid will be critiqued in this essay. This essay will examine the research question through a social justice perspective. It will help to explain how foreign aid has impacted impoverished countries such as Bangladesh and Nepal. Social justice is a concept that brings to light injusticesRead MoreThe Impact Of Social Stratification On Minorities1195 Words   |  5 Pagesof this class I have learned about social problems within the society in which we live and around the world. It is disturbing to learn that poverty, social inequality, race and cultural discrimination, gender stratification, environmental damage, population growth, and urbanization are among the social problems and controversial issues that still exist in the United States. What is Social Stratification Social stratification is defined as a system by which society ranks categories of people in a hierarchyRead MoreHealth Is Not Determined Solely By Genetics1493 Words   |  6 Pagesof â€Å"medical doctor† typically elicits connections to health, medications, and the extensive field of science. Physicians are individuals to whom people consult when illness strikes and care is needed; however, few associate these doctors with issues thought to be outside the realm of medicine’s teachings, such as politics, social services and economics. Unnatural Causes: Is Inequality Making Us Sick? (2008) highlights the point that good health of their patients, the ultimate goal of any physicianRead MorePoverty Is A Growing Problem Around The World With Millions Of People1267 Words   |  6 PagesPoverty is a growing problem around the world with millions of people lacking the basic elements necessary for stable living and Hamilton is no exception. Nearly one fifth of Hamiltonians li ve below the national poverty line (Social Planning Research Council, 2012). Moreover, one third of all private housings are rentals (or tenant housings), and seven percent of residents live in derelict housing (Social Planning Research Council, 2012). This abundance of poverty is structurally maintained throughRead MoreWhat Is Identity? Who Defines Such, And How Is It Constructed?1570 Words   |  7 Pagesits meaning is not captured by the definition. Identity has a double sense, it can refer to one’s self, a personal identity; but at the same time can also be socially constructed. People have unique identities which may be partly determined by family influences and personal development, but also biological influences such as a sex, ethnicity, age and disability. As far back as 1690 John Locke wrote an essay concerning human understanding, he considered that personal identity was founded on consciousnessRead MorePolitical And Economic Theories And Systems That Influence Community Services Work1399 Words   |  6 Pagesthe political and economic theories and systems that influence community services work. The Commonwealth of Australia is both a representative democracy and a constitutional monarchy with Queen Elizabeth II as Australia s head of state. (How government works, 2016). Since the 1990s globalization has gained widespread currency in Australia on a social, economic, political and cultural level. (Holmes, 2012, p. 340) Laws and politics have an influence on Australia’s economic system, which is capitalism

Global Warming Is Not Occuring - 1035 Words

Our Earth, the single known planet that supports life in the vast universe is said to be in crisis due to a phenomena known as global warming, luckily, this is just not the case. There are many sides on this debate, some say that the Earth is indeed warming, however some contend that this is not so, furthermore others are not sure about which side they are entrusting the Earth too. My standpoint on the heavily heated and controversial issue is that Global Warming as defined by its proponents is not occurring. I affirm that the Earth goes through natural warming and cooling trends. Global Warming as defined by its supporters would be a rising in the temperature of the entire Earth due to human activity increasing the amount of greenhouse†¦show more content†¦Edmund Contoski wrote the article â€Å"Global Warming, Global Myth.† Global warming is in fact a myth that has been created by liberalist and is no different than the red scare that has occurred in the past, a s upposed problem blown out of proportion by the mainstream media networks. As stated before the Earth goes through natural warming and cooling trends, one of these trends known as El Nià ±o, which is a change in currents in the Pacific Ocean, which increase the temperature. Mankind the supposed source for all of our Earth’s climate problems does not even contribute 5% of the total carbon dioxide gas in the atmosphere. Carbon dioxide is one of the main gases in the evil world-ending group known as greenhouse gases. In actuality, humans only produce about 3% of the carbon dioxide in the atmosphere leaving the other 97% percent to nature. Some of the worst offenders are not cars or factories, not even leaving the lights on in your house but in fact is the wetlands; yes the wetlands. The very same wetlands that have earned multiple groups begging for their protection because they are environmentally necessary are producing more greenhouse gases than all human activities combi ned. Termites are also bad for the environment, not for the fact that they destroy your home but the fact that they produce ten times more carbon dioxide then factories and automobiles. Volcanoes and Yellow Stone National Park also add to these totals. However, with all of the talk aboutShow MoreRelatedEssay about Global Warming Is Occuring Because of Mankinds Consumption786 Words   |  4 PagesGlobal warming seemed to be a pile of malarkey. After several discussions with a professor I had my first year of college, he had explained how the two scientific experiments that prove this â€Å"science† are not repeatable! As a student who is aspiring to become a scientist, global warming claims screamed falsehoods because it breaks the scientific method. However this explanation did not prove how my hunting season is getting less snow, or how river water temperature is increasing. As I entered myRead More Glaciers, Ice and Global Warming Essay566 Words   |  3 PagesGlaciers, Ice and Global Warming Glaciers are one of the most fundamental phenomenon on the planet, and much of their purpose and impact on earth has been well documented and published. Ice sheets, Ice Caps and Glaciers trap nearly 90% of the worlds fresh water, and are replenished by snowfall each year. Their existence on this planet dates back 650,000,000 years and yet they are always moving, always shifting and always melting. Before, human existence and even during the brief eraRead MoreHumans Cause Global Warming1142 Words   |  5 PagesGlobal Warming Debate Today we are debating the important topic of global warming. As the affirmative team, we strongly believe that global warming is caused by the actions of humans. But this is not just a belief, this is a fact. Global warming, by definition, is a gradual increase in the overall temperature of the earth s atmosphere generally attributed to the greenhouse effect caused by increased levels of carbon dioxide, CFCs, and other pollutants. The greenhouse effect is the trapping of theRead MoreEssay on Global Warming1245 Words   |  5 PagesGlobal Warming Our planets atmosphere traps energy just like a greenhouse. Energy from the Sun can enter the Earth’s atmosphere, but not all of it can easily find its way out again. What blocks the Sun’s energy from escaping from the Earth? Unlike a greenhouse, the Earth does not have a layer of glass over it! Instead, molecules in our atmosphere called greenhouse gasses absorb the heat. Greenhouse gasses include water vapor, methane, ozone, nitrous oxide, andRead More Changes In The Earths Environment Essay2133 Words   |  9 Pages Changes in the Earths Environment The 20th century, especially in the second half, has been one of rapid change in the Earths environment. The impact of humans on the physical form and functioning of the Earth have reached levels that are global in character, and have done so at an increasingly mounting speed. 20 years ago the environment was seen as posing a threat to the future of humanity as death rates from natural hazards had increased dramatically since the turn of the century. The EarthRead MoreEssay on The Mallee Region of Victoria1653 Words   |  7 Pagesa variety of biomes: desert, aquatic (wetlands) and grassland. When joined with the Wimmera region, the area is known to hold 25% of Victoria’s wetlands, creating a home for a diverse array of fauna and flora. !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! -How could global warming affect the area and food production? Are there any innovations in the area to help deal with climate change and the increasing scarcity of resources? (such as covered irrigation channels, wind power, reducing carbon footprint†¦?) Regional ClimateRead MoreThe Little Ice Age : A Period Of Cooling3721 Words   |  15 Pagescentury. However NASA has defined The Little Ice Age as a cold period between AD 1550 and AD 1850, in which there was 3 particularly cold periods in this time. The timing of The Little Ice age is not the only uncertainty as the areas affected by the global cooling is also widely debated. Though it generally agreed that Europe and North America experienced cooling from the little ice age as they were subjected to much colder winters than during the 20th century (H.H. Lamb et. Al from Environmental HistoryRead MoreHow Transport Engineering Improve Inter Urban Goods Movement3615 Words   |  15 Pagesof urban goods and business traffic. (Daniele Patier 2008) 1.2 Rail freight But rail, having its own segregated right of way, is immune from delays extraneous to its mode of operation, whereas cars are liable to be caught up in the increasingly occuring traffic delays. Although the use of a car is usually cheaper, they take longer and their journey times cannot be guaranteed and can be stressful for the driver. The rail infrastructure is frequently seen as environmentally friendly compared toRead MoreImportance of Oceans4849 Words   |  20 Pagesto overfishing, economics and management practices. Fish are caught in a variety of ways, including one-man casting nets, huge trawlers, seining, driftnetting, handlining, longlining, gillnetting and diving. The most common species making up the global fisheries are herring, cod, anchovy, flounder, tuna, shrimp, mullet, squid, crab, salmon, lobster, scallops and oyster. Mollusks and crustaceans are also widely sought. The fish that are caught are not always used for food. In fact, about 40% of fishRead MoreLanzones Peelings as Mosquito Coil7282 Words   |  30 Pagesbest way to prevent the spread of these diseases. Lanzones peelings are waste product of lanzones fruits. If  this peeling would be converted into product such as mosquito coil, these waste materials would be lessen and would help in preventing global  warming.  This study would also benefit our homes, after eating lanzones, we can make use of its peelings to drive away killing mosquitoes. This can also help small business enterprise; they could create coils made fr om lanzones peelings that are cheaper

Ap World Dbq Attitudes of Christianity and Islam Toward...

Victoria Boldt April 16, 2010 AP World DBQ From the onset of the Christian and Islamic religions, until about 1500, the two religions began with two different opinions of merchants, but grew together as time went on. As the two religions reached the 1500’s, their view of merchants became almost identical. In the beginning of each religion, Christianity and Islam had very different views on merchants and traders. In the New Testament of the Bible, hatred is shown towards wealth and merchants. â€Å"It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God.† (Doc. 1). This is very bluntly saying that there is absolutely no chance for a rich†¦show more content†¦Ibn says, â€Å"The manners of tradesmen are inferior to those of rulers, and far removed from manliness an uprightness† (Doc. 5). He also says that merchants are full of tricks, and are cheaters. This clearly shows an obvious change in Islamic views on merchants, while the Christians still feel the same. Finally, around the time of the 1500’s, the views on merchants by Christians and Islam became almost the same. In the 14th century, letters to and from Italian merchants were sent. Within these letters were evidence of how the Christian beliefs never really changed on merchants. From the letter of a merchant’s mother, she says â€Å"Crave for not all; you have already enough [money] to suffice you!† (Doc. 6). Even a merchant’s mother can see that greed is a big characteristic among people of this class. In comparison, Ankara, an Islamic representative of a Turkish guild explains the greed of a man who gets an entire supply of yarn, and keeps it to himself, when he should be distributing it among others (Doc. 7). At this point, Christians and Islam have the same view on merchants. At the start, Christianity and Islam opinions on merchants were very different, then as time passed, by the 1500’s their opinions were very alike. Though, to better assess the consequences of these attitudes towards merchant activities,

Essay on Net Present Value and Capacity Planning - 1269 Words

CAPACITY PLANNING Real Options Analysis Practice Questions and Solutions CAPACITY PLANNING Question 1: PROJECT SABLE Use a 30% per year discount rate to evaluate Project Sable, which has two phases. You may invest in the first, in both or in neither. You may not invest in the second phase without investing in the first. ï  ± Phase 1 requires an investment of $100. One year later the project delivers on the average $120. ï  ± At that time, after the phase 1 payout has been received, you may invest an additional $100 for phase 2. One year later, phase 2 pays out on the average $140. However, phase 2`s payout can go up or down by 20%. a. How much would Project Sable be worth if it offered only the phase 1 opportunity? b. How much would†¦show more content†¦Phase-1 Year Net-cash-flow PV @ 5% NPV Alternative-1 Year Net-cash-flow PV @ 5% NPV Alternative-2 Year Net-cash-flow PV @ 5% NPV CAPACITY PLANNING 0 -300 -300 -7.48 0 0 45.37 0 1 10 9.52 2 12 10.88 3 15 12.96 4 15 12.34 5 15 11.75 6 15 11.19 7 15 10.66 8 15 10.15 9 10 15 315 9.67 193.38 1 0 2 0 3 -240 -207.32 4 10 8.23 5 12 9.40 6 15 11.19 7 15 10.66 8 15 10.15 9 10 15 315 9.67 193.38 1 2 3 4 5 6 -235 -175.3 7 10 7.11 8 12 8.12 9 10 15 315 9.67 193.38 42.92 Phase1+ Alternative-1 Phase 1+ Alternative-2 -7.48+45.37 -7.48+42.92 A1A2 Question 2: Suppose that discount rate is 5% and volatility is 20%. (c) Do you prefer Alternative 1 or 2 based on real options method? Decide whether the launch of new product is profitable or not based on real options valuation? Alternative-1 Year Revenue Investment CAPACITY PLANNING 0 1 2 3 -240 4 10 5 12 6 15 7 15 8 15 9 15 10 315 Options valuation of Alternative-1: Real Options S = PV(Revenue) X = PV(Investment) A=S/X B = SQRT(T) * sigma 23% of S ïÆ'   =58.12 252.69 207.32 1.22 0.35 Question 2: Suppose that discount rate is 5% and volatility is 20%. (c) Do you prefer Alternative 1 or 2 based on real options method? Decide whether the launch of new product is profitable or not based on real options valuation?Show MoreRelatedThe Drawbacks of Flexible Manufacturing Systems686 Words   |  3 Pagesnew technologies. The investment in terminated capability and capacity may carry out a financial risk in expectation of future product schemes to the firm. The systems’ scalability with a parameter and we set this parameter as the lower bound of capacity that is added to each system. Authors analyse multiple products’ demand for three consecutive periods using stochastic programming approach .The major impact on capacity selection is demand expansion. The model does not allow any inventoryRead MoreTraditional Methods For Evaluating The Capital Investments Essay1020 Words   |  5 Pagesfor your suggested methodology. Net present value in conjunction with internal rate of return are the best methods for evaluating the capital investments of your selected company in the emerging markets to reduce risk. Net Present Value (NPV) is the difference between the present value of cash inflows and the present value of cash outflows. NPV is used in capital budgeting to analyse the profitability of a projected investment or project. A positive net present value indicates that the projected earningsRead MoreRandom718 Words   |  3 Pagesindependence in current board Cash flow issues caused by need to repay loan to shareholder Succession planning Budgeting relating to offering new products Budgeting relating to opening new stores Inventory valuation for financial reporting Various ethical issues relating to operating the current stores Lack of incentive compensation systems ï‚ · ï‚ · ï‚ · ï‚ · ï‚ · ï‚ · ï‚ · ï‚ · ï‚ · ï‚ · Concepts/Tools Examined Net present value CCA analysis Mark to market financial accounting issues Profit analysis Opportunity cost FinancingRead MoreEssay on Net Present Value and Moderate Keywords10098 Words   |  41 PagesChapter 6 | Capacity Planning | | TRUE/FALSE 1. Capacity is the maximum rate of output of a process. Answer: True Reference: Introduction Difficulty: Easy Keywords: capacity, maximum output rate 2. Capacity decisions should be made separate from strategic decisions. Answer: False Reference: Introduction Difficulty: Moderate Keywords: capacity decision, strategic decisions 3. Capacity can be expressed by output or input measuresRead MoreThe Problem Of Amd Is Serious At Many Sites And Can Happen After Mine Closure929 Words   |  4 PagesARD reaction rates. The dumps that increase sediment loads can cause loss of habitat in the surrounding area. Thus, this leads to higher temperatures and increased oxygen ingress through convection. These factors can also be characterized by low pH values (altered chemical equilibria) and elevated content of heavy metals (toxicity to aquatic organisms and human users) and dissolved salts (salinization problems for agriculture and sensitive users). For countries in more humid areas, high levels of precipitationRead MoreA Report On Abc Company1603 Words   |  7 Pagesanalyze the present data and forecast. The internal control is the where the organization’s structure affects, labor and authority flow, the information system of management, and everyone that will assist the organization fulfill its goals or object ive. An adequate internal control system in each company is essential in every functioning company. Internal Control systems would be more efficient and controlled when assigning separate duties, correct transaction authorization, a safety net for importantRead MoreBUS 640 Week 5 Assignment1360 Words   |  6 Pagesadviser for Alba and Gavigan, I recommend a price skimming strategy for pricing merchandise. Penetration pricing occurs when a company launches a low-priced product with the goal of securing market share. Penetration pricing requires extensive planning to properly execute a penetration-pricing strategy, the company first must gear up for mass production and then launch a sizable advertising campaign to publicize its new low-priced product (Monger, 2012). Both steps are expensive, so penetration-pricingRead MorePort Authority Analysis1245 Words   |  5 Pagesbalanced scorecard implemented, all managers, including managerial accountants, use the strategy for accurate decision-making to reduce cost and maximize profit. Therefore, developing cost factors, cost accounting, developing a cash budget or using present value in decision-making are critical to the survival of the Aviation Department operations excellence. Indeed, manipulating these factors could move operations performance closer to the efficient frontier. Although airports are increasing running likeRead MoreCase Study : Johnson Controls, Inc. Essay1409 Words   |  6 Pagesinvestment decisions. For instance, the net present value method (NPV) which entails estimating the costs and revenues of a project and discounting these figures to get their present values. Projects with the biggest positive net present value are the ones chosen as they represent the best stream of benefits of investing in the project over and above recovering the cost of initiating the projects. The discount rate is another method which is similar to the net present value method but reflects more on theRead MoreCapacity Planning Using Linear Programming3875 Words   |  16 PagesCompany R’s Strategic Capacity Planning Using Mixed Integer Linear Programming ABSTRACT Company R is experiencing 2.07 more days in producing a certain line of hotdogs. Thus, incurring 51.75% more cost of Php 5, 764. 62 per week. Through work sampling and time study, it was found out that the sealing section of the packaging line is the bottle neck activity with a standard processing time of 2.86 min/kg. Additional machine is needed. Employing strategic capacity planning through formulation

Lobbying and Litigation in Telecommunications †MyAssignmenthelp

Question: Discuss about the Lobbying and Litigation in Telecommunications. Answer: Introduction The report helps in analysis of the internal and external analysis of the Uber Technologies Inc. The main different kind of leadership challenges has to be discussed as this will help the company in understanding the strategies that has to be adopted to overcome such challenges. The innovation challenges will be discussed in an effective manner and theoretical frameworks will be discussed to understand the different framework for innovation required in Uber. The main aim and purpose of the report is to understand the different kind of challenges related to leadership, innovation with the usage of theoretical framework as this will help in solving the different challenges. The SWOT and Porters Five Forces Model analysis will be done as this will help in understanding the challenges in an effective manner. Uber Technologies Inc is peer to peer ride sharing transportation network that has been headquartered in San Francisco. California. Uber is operating in more than 630 cities worldwide. The Uber application is accessed by the help of different websites and mobile applications. Uber Technologies is one of the superior and a pioneer in the sharing economy and it is growing fast in a rapid manner. There are different kind of services that are offered by Uber that includes vehicle for hire and delivery services. There are different kinds of services of ride provided by Uber that include UberPOOL, UberXL, UberGO and UberPremiere. There are more than 12000 plus employees who are working for Uber and the company has generated a huge revenue of more than US $6.5 billion. Internal and External Analysis Both internal and external analysis of Uber Technologies INC is essential in nature as this will help in understanding the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats of the company effectually. Furthermore, the external environment has to be analysed in an effective manner as this will help in prioritizing innovation in Uber. The external analysis can be done with the help of Porters Five Forces Model as this will help in generating idea of the other competitors in the market. The operational costs are low in nature wherein Uber offers low prices to the customers in comparison to the other traditional competitors (Bohari, Hin and Fuad 2017). Uber has introduced cash less payments along with pricing strategy is clear in nature and it offers high standard service to the customers and it is well recognized brand in the market. The business model of Uber Technologies is unpredictable and there are different kind of privacy issues in Uber. Uber caters to the individuals who are tech savvy (Greenspan 2015). The application of Uber Technologies is highly dependent on the internet and there are low barriers in the entry as there are huge rate of competition in the respective industry (Mathooko and Ogutu 2015). There are different kind of dissatisfaction among the customers with the entire unorganized market. There is huge increase in the internet penetration as the usage of the smartphones are increasing day by day and this is expanding the Uber services in other countries as well. The rise in the disposable income is other opportunity for Uber as this is increasing the spending of the individuals on their convenience. There is an option for alternate transport wherein Uber has launched Uber Chopper in different kind of countries and this has provided Uber with opportunity for launching Bus aggregator system. The regulations of the government are unclear in nature wherein the primary concern of the disagreement between the different kind of cab aggregators and regulators of the government is relating to legal status (Sutherland 2014). There are different kind of conflicts with different kind of local authorities and this will lead to different issues for the respective company named Uber (Kuo et al. 2016). There is low margin in Uber Company wherein it helps the drivers to get high number of daily rides, however it does not create high profit margins for the drivers of Uber External Analysis Industry Rivalry is one of the forces wherein it is seen that Uber operates in different countries in worldwide and the different competitors might be different from one another. It has been seen that Uber faces huge competition from services of Lyft wherein the business model is similar to Uber and it provides competition to Uber in terms of the share in the market. There are different other competitors compete with Uber with different aspects such as customer service along with reliability and comfort. It helps in analysing that Uber is facing tough kind of competition in the industry (Slvell 2015). Threat of new entrants is the second force wherein the business mode in which Uber is operating takes lot of efforts in building. This kind of business operates in concept of people wherein the drivers get their own cars and get it registered and work for Uber in flexible hours. When a new company enters into the similar market, the barriers and cost of entry is low. Thus, it can be seen that there is high level of threats from new entrants (Yunna and Yisheng 2014). Threat of substitutes is the third force wherein the different substitute of Uber are not the ones who are in direct competition, however there are different companies who are having same business model. There are other indirect taxi companies that helps in providing same kind of services and they are in indirect competition with Uber. These are the different substitutes that are big threat to the Uber company and it is threat to market share and sales (Rezazadeh et al. 2017). Bargaining power of suppliers is the fourth force wherein Uber does not own any vehicles operating in the name and is dependent on the suppliers that is the drivers of the cars. Uber Company tries to outsource the different cars and there are different suppliers of Uber who have high bargaining power and it is the duty of Uber to take care of the different suppliers. It is because as anything bad happens it will affect the brand name of Uber along with brand image of Uber (E. Dobbs 2014). Bargaining power of the buyers is the fifth force wherein the buyers of Uber are not permanent in nature unless they become loyal to the company. It can be seen that there are different other car services available in the market and customers can shift from one service to the other and the cost of shifting in market is low in nature. It can be seen the bargaining power of Uber is high in nature (Sapra, Subramanian and Subramanian 2014). There are different kind of leadership challenges that is faced by Uber that are required to be analysed in an effective manner. Firstly, there is lack of communication and managerial effectiveness in Uber as the decisions that are taken by higher officials of Uber are late and it makes the tasks more ineffective in nature. The managers of Uber are able to adjust with the role effectively and managers are not supportive in understanding the queries of the driver partners. Secondly, guiding change is the other challenge of Uber wherein the leaders are not able to understand and lead change effectively. The leaders of the Uber Company are not able to lead to changes in an effective manner. The leaders do not set goals in the initial stage and they implement strategies after they are facing huge competition in the market (Yan, Xia and Bao 2015). Lastly, leaders of Uber Company are not able to manage the internal stakeholders along with politics as they fail in managing relationships in an effectual manner. There is no such managerial support from higher authority and this creates miscommunication among employees (Quitzow et al. 2014). From the above figure, it can be analysed that proper leadership is required to be maintained by Uber Company in overcoming such challenges in an effectual manner. The different analysis is required to be done that are as follows: The leaders need to set goals and they has to be proactive in nature as this will help the company in meeting the different deadlines. This will help the company in gaining competitive advantage with the implementation of transformational leadership style (Takata 2016). Secondly, the leaders need to delegate tasks in an effective manner wherein all the driver partners have to be provided with different facilities and understand their view point. The transformational kind of leadership will help in solving the different issues among the leaders and the employees. It is required to maximize the unique value in comparison to the other competitors in the market wherein the company will prioritize their organizational goals. This will help the company in increasing the efficiency effectiveness and performance of business. There are different kind of innovation challenges that is faced by Uber wherein firstly, the innovation challenge is that Uber introduces different kind of updates in their application. These kinds of updates can prove to be difficult for the users to use such applications in an efficient manner (Akhavan et al. 2015). Secondly, there are different kind of disruptive transactional costs of Uber wherein there are different fees or payments that is affecting the business and innovation strategies. With the help of the diagram, it can be analysed that Uber needs to implement different strategies to implement the different kind of disruptive strategies that are as follows: It is seen that Uber needs to eliminate the different transaction costs as this will help in providing conventional service to the customers. This will help in encouraging increase in the entire productivity of the different assets and rate of employment. Uber needs to take full advantage of the collaborative consumption concept with the implementation of mobile application and this can help in installation of different kind of packages as this will help in understanding the needs of the customers in an effective manner (David, David and David 2017) There are different kind of organizational priorities of Uber in relation to the innovation and leadership that includes the following: It has been seen that the Uber has introduced disruptive innovation strategies that has helped them in gaining competitive advantage in the market. Uber Technologies has tried to cut off different kind of transactional costs as this has helped the company in being better than the other competitors in the market with incremental innovation strategy in an effective manner. There were different leadership challenges in the organization that has been faced by Uber. The leaders in Uber tried to delegate the tasks and tried to maximise their unique value in an effective manner. This kind of incremental innovation will help in continuous improvement and solve them effectively. Recommendations Therefore, it can be recommended that Uber Technologies Inc need to analyse their opportunities in an effectual manner. The company named Uber needs to understand the different opportunities wherein Uber needs to increase the market penetration and this will help in increasing their footprints in different parts of the world (Datafloq.com, 2018). The other recommendation that can be suggested to Uber Technologies Inc is that Uber can develop and implement technology that will help the customers in searching movers and packers in their nearby areas via Uber application. These are the two kinds of recommendations that can be provided to Uber Company as this will help in implementing their technologies in an effectual manner. There are different kind of practical steps that has to be implemented by Uber in order to improve their innovation and leadership qualities. Firstly, proper human resource managers have to be appointed in the organization as this will help the company in gaining competitive advantage. Secondly, the company needs to understand the innovation that is required to be made as this will help in improving their issues and there will be continuous improvement. Thirdly, the leadership qualities has to be ascertained in an effectual manner as this will help in improving their strengths and solving the queries in an effectual manner. Conclusion Therefore, it can be concluded that the internal and external analysis of Uber has helped the company in understanding their different innovative strategies that can be adopted by them. Uber has helped themselves by understanding the different leadership and innovation challenges and solved them with proper implementation of technologies. The Uber Company can implement different kind of theoretical frameworks as this has helped the company in gaining competitive advantage. Lastly, the Uber Company has applied different disruptive innovation techniques that has helped the entire company in being the superior pioneer in the entire market. The different kind of theoretical frameworks has helped the respective company in understanding their weaknesses and solved them effectually. Uber Technologies Inc has tried to implement different kind of technologies wherein they have been proved superior in comparison to the other competitors in the market. References Akhavan, P., Barak, S., Maghsoudlou, H. and Antuchevi?ien?, J., 2015. FQSPM-SWOT for strategic alliance planning and partner selection; case study in a holding car manufacturer company.Technological and Economic Development of Economy,21(2), pp.165-185. Bohari, A.M., Hin, C.W. and Fuad, N., 2017. The competitiveness of halal food industry in Malaysia: A SWOT-ICT analysis.Geografia-Malaysian Journal of Society and Space,9(1). Datafloq.com. (2018). How Uber Depends on Data Analytics to Deliver Extreme Customer Service. [online] Available at: https://datafloq.com/read/how-uber-depends-data-analytics-deliver-service/2621 [Accessed 22 Mar. 2018]. David, M.E., David, F.R. and David, F.R., 2017. The quantitative strategic planning matrix: a new marketing tool.Journal of Strategic Marketing,25(4), pp.342-352. Dobbs, M., 2014. Guidelines for applying Porter's five forces framework: a set of industry analysis templates.Competitiveness Review,24(1), pp.32-45. Greenspan, R., 2015. Walmart: Five forces analysis (Porters model).Panamore Institute. Kuo, C.M., Huang, G.S., Tseng, C.Y. and Boger, E.P., 2016. SMART SWOT Strategic Planning Analysis: For Service Robot Utilization in the Hospitality Industry.Consortium Journal of Hospitality Tourism,20(2). Mathooko, F.M. and Ogutu, M., 2015. Porters five competitive forces framework and other factors that influence the choice of response strategies adopted by public universities in Kenya.International Journal of Educational Management,29(3), pp.334-354. Quitzow, R., Walz, R., Khler, J. and Rennings, K., 2014. The concept of lead markets revisited: Contribution to environmental innovation theory.Environmental Innovation and Societal Transitions,10, pp.4-19. Rezazadeh, S., Jahani, A., Makhdoum, M. and Meigooni, H.G., 2017. Evaluation of the Strategic Factors of the Management of Protected Areas Using SWOT AnalysisCase Study: Bashgol Protected Area-Qazvin Province.Evaluation of the Strategic Factors of the Management of Protected Areas Using SWOT AnalysisCase Study: Bashgol Protected Area-Qazvin Province,7(1), pp.55-68. Sapra, H., Subramanian, A. and Subramanian, K.V., 2014. Corporate governance and innovation: Theory and evidence.Journal of Financial and Quantitative Analysis,49(4), pp.957-1003. Slvell, ., 2015. The Competitive Advantage of Nations 25 yearsopening up new perspectives on competitiveness.Competitiveness Review,25(5), pp.471-481. Sutherland, E., 2014. Lobbying and litigation in telecommunications marketsreapplying Porters five forces.info,16(5), pp.1-18. Takata, H., 2016. Effects of industry forces, market orientation, and marketing capabilities on business performance: An empirical analysis of Japanese manufacturers from 2009 to 2011.Journal of Business Research,69(12), pp.5611-5619. Uber.com. (2018). Making career moves? Sign up to be an Uber Driver or get a ride to the airport | Uber. [online] Available at: https://www.uber.com/en-IN/ [Accessed 21 Mar. 2018]. Yan, J., Xia, F. and Bao, H.X., 2015. Strategic planning framework for land consolidation in China: A top-level design based on SWOT analysis.Habitat International,48, pp.46-54. Yunna, W. and Yisheng, Y., 2014. The competition situation analysis of shale gas industry in China: Applying Porters five forces and scenario model.Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews,40, pp.798-805.

Marketing Strategy Development

Question: What is the Market Issues in Strategy Development ? Answer : Introduction There is almost double digit growth wearable tracking device market; it is expected to grow further. Among all devices, wrist wear accounts for more than 70 percent of products. This is a marketing strategy development paper, prepared on Fitbit. Reason behind selecting this company is uniqueness of product, increasing popularity and ability to change healthcare and fitness environment positively. This paper discuss four major issues, first is 5 c of market, market research procedure of the company; based on market analysis segmentation and positioning strategy is given and marketing plan is presented. Fitbit has revolutionize the wearable technology industry and made its unique brand image. Company overview Fitbit is an American company that manufactures health tracking products. It was founded by Eric and James in the year 2007 (fitbit.com, 2015). It is a globally operating company that provides technology enhanced products to optimize health and fitness experience. Its mission is to empower and inspire to live a healthier and active life. Products Fitbit deals in wide range of health and fitness products such as activity trackers, wireless enabled technology that helps in measuring steps walked, heart rate, steps climbed etc. Various brands launched by the Fitbit include Zip, One, Flex 2, Alta, Charge 2, Blaze and Surge. It has divided its product range into everyday fitness that include four products, which are trackers; second is active fitness that include Fitbit charge2 and blaze; third is performance fitness that include Fitbit surge and finally the Wi-Fi weighing scale. Its products helps in calculating GPS tracking facility that help in understanding distance, speed, time, pulse rate, sleep, total day activities such as total steps taken, distance, calorie burned, activity minutes, hourly activity. Fitbit has a strong brand image in the market, it is a successful product in UK and USA, expanding its market reaches in Asia and other markets (www.fitbit.com, 2016). Fitbit is also making shift from fitness to fashion also. However, there is low brand awareness regarding such fitness products in many markets, enhancing the same which increase new scope for market development. Company Though Fitbit products are highly technological but there ease of use helps in making them user friendly. This was the first organization that launched such tracking device with strong health focus; it achieved first mover advantage that helped in high sales and revenues. However, problem with products of this brand include premium pricing strategy. Different market researches shows issues regarding plain and simple designing of Fitbit products, they are not stylish and fashion statements. Business growth rate for Fitbit is high, immense opportunity lies in various developing market where product is still at introductory stage; rising concern towards health issues and healthy living in market is also giving new opportunities for product development. It has 85 percent of share of tracking devices(McNew, 2015). Company try to offer broad range of products at various price levels to cater demand of various customer groups. However, tracking device business industry and economic conditio n has strong correlation, spending on such devices are seen in developed nation with high disposable income. Customers If persona of a Fitbit customer is to be analysed, it include a person who is doing a desk job, earning 100k+more annually; who is a the savvy person, uses smartphone, willing to purchase a product that receive positive feedback on social media on helping improving healthy living and habits, one who is willing and aim to work out regularly, lives in USA and of mid age. Therefore, it include target segment 25 + of age, is comfortable with technology, frequently uses social media, has an expendable income. Fitbit has built a very niche market to cater and try to serve best to its target segment. It target both male and female population with 25 and above age. However, it gives more stress on female segments, especially moms (Dumoriter, 2016). It operates in different markets such as USA, Dublin, Japan, India, Hong Kong, and Shanghai. On behaviour basis, its customers look for continuous motivation and support for workouts, it tries to give that technological support and sharing through data tracking, sharing etc. (Holm, 2006). Collaborators There is group of suppliers in china and Singapore who are responsible for manufacturing hardware for the company; however company keeps the name remain undisclosed. However, it did mention that Flextronics is its primary contract manufacturer of majority of devices. There is marketing, technology, innovation teams responsible for successful operations. Fitbit is encountering market problem in meeting total market demand, failing to meet demand impact business negatively (Marshall, 2016). Competitors Fitbit is encountering intense market competition from big market players such as Nike, Apple, and Microsoft and Pebble technology. Direct competitors include Nike Fuel band, 24 hour bodybugg, Jawbone UP2. Further, products from Fitbit are not water resistance, whereas Pebble corp. products are more stylish and provide water protection. There is intense indirect competition from substitutes like non-clinical weight loss programs(Stables, 2015). Apart from this category wise competition is from free health care items, low priced products, personal management etc. Market analysis shows rising trend in fitness wearable devices. According to Statista.com, in year 2018 the figure is expected to be worth $12,642m, total number of units expected to be shipped are 224 million. It is expected that almost 40 percent of customer will be from US market (statista.com, 2016). With increasing demand, tech giants such as Apple, Google are also launching such wearable gadgets. Further, there is also high market threat from new products and market entrants as still this industry lifecycle is at introductory stage. Context This section will present various other external factors impacting business of Fitbit. Political scenario has strong influence on business growth and advancement. Fitbit is a US based company, being a leading economy USA offer business opportunities, liberty. It has strong economic scenario, with GDP is over $16.760 trillion(tradingeconomics.com, 2015). However, there is reduction in corporate profits by 1.2 percent. Social environment of US shows total population of 321,418,820. There is concern towards ageing population, poor health and obesity in the economic; the nutrition curve is also downward sloping showing rising concern towards health issues. However, this shows favourable market opportunities for Fitbit as it can act as tool to overcome this problem. Market offers high technological opportunities for business; almost 85 percent of US population is tech friendly, providing scope for such products. There is large growing community of Fitbit users, which shows positive market trend for wearable tracking devices(McNew, 2015). There is presence of high tech companies such as Apple, Google, and Microsoft in the market. There is rising concern towards climatic changes, global warming issues; company need to make strong strategies in regards to waste management, Carbon emission to ensure low pollution(Silbert, 2015). Market research impacts the way data is collected and presented by organization, it influences the authenticity and reliability of presented information. Market research is conducted by organization to understand customer needs and demands; it is also conducted to evaluate competitors position to analyse potential market threat; it aims to evaluate changing environmental condition and prospective influence on company strategic growth. Market research is the key information collection strategy that impact overall strategic process. Customer data is collected through Fitbit app; whenever a customer activates a Fitbit device they download their software and install information regarding them. This information is used by the company to evaluate personalized fitness stats for customers; it also uses their activities track record to measure their development (fitbit.com, 2016). It also collects information regarding all visitors who visit its websites. Other ways of collecting data include contest, giveaways, community, social media, and participation in surveys. Internal market research is being conducted to evaluate market environment trends, competitors position and strategies. Tools such as project planning, troubleshooting are implemented to evaluate market trends. Market segmentation Fitbit does not go for mass marketing, rather it focuses on small group of customer, fulfil their needs better than anyone else in the market. Niche segmentation of Fitbit is based on demographics, geographic regions and behavioural patterns. According to demographic parameters, it aims to cater both male and female customers above 25 years of age, preferably working professionals from middle and upper income group. Geographically, it is present in six markets USA, Dublin, Japan, India, Hong Kong, and Shanghai; Asia is being projected as prospective market with huge market development scope(Stevenson, 2016). On behavioural grounds, Fitbit prefer to target customers who are tech savvy, well educated, involved in social networking, health conscious, seek for continuous motivation for health development. It aims to target different customer groups such as major market segment include athletes, individuals, hospitals and clinics, corporations, people who want to reduce weight (Dibi Simk in, 1996). Target market On the basis of segmentation, Fitbit tries to target customer group between 30 to 40 years of age, who is trying to reduce weight, suffering from health issues, looking for healthy options, motivation to achieve their health goals. It target customer group who have money but no time to give. It also target technology users who seek for tools that provide them quick and easy monitoring on their health without much effort. Fitbit provide an effortless experience to its users. Its direct target groups include office Oliver, person with heavy headed hobby, mothers, and health conscious personality. Value proposition Fitbit is helping those customers who are looking for a way to improve their activity level without a big commitment; it has successfully managed to implement short term attainable goals through its products and its technology. Fitbit differentiate its offering on the basis of product features and accurate technology. It has been able to redefine health to make measurable development towards detecting illness and make progress towards healthy life(McNew, 2015). Positioning statement Fit bit has positioned itself as a tool that help in living a healthy life, balanced by tracking all day activities, exercise, sleep and weight. It positions itself as digital healthcare company that is integration between social networking and hardware to achieve desired goals (Stevenson, 2016). It has made its distinctive market position on the basis of product quality and accuracy of measurement. It is easy to use, have more features than other brands. Recommendations On the basis of above analysis, Fitbit is performing well in its niche market segment; it has well defined its target and what it plans to offer them. Further, it is advised that due to increasing obesity in the market, Fitbit can also target teenagers and youth from 15to 25 years of age. It is also advised to add new design as Fitbit products are not fashionable; it can add new option of personalization of design. On the basis of analysis presented in issue one, two and three; it is clear that Fitbit aims to maintain its position of market leader; it aims to implement product and market development strategies as it will help in launching new product and enter new markets; finally it also aims to increase market awareness regarding tracking devices in developing markets. Product Presently company is offering almost nine different types of products in three key categories on the basis of fitness needs. Fitbit products have large number of features, ease of connectivity, robust packing with several motivational quotes above them to inspire the user. Further to achieve set objectives, it is recommended that Fitbit can opt for strategic partnership with insurance companies, healthcare organizations, fitness centres. This service will help Fitbit users to sign with their partnering insurer, fitness centre; it will help in sharing of data on large platform regarding each member. However, data sharing will be with due consent and voluntary basis only. It will help Fitbit in attracting new members, ability to sell products at different places, fitness clubs etc. Price Analysis shows that Fitbit products are priced premium, it might because low sales in certain market as purchase of healthcare products are strongly dependent on economic conditions. Above product will help in providing discount by Fitbit users; it will help in increasing sales and brand loyalty. Fitbit can also offer discounting cards for their partnering clubs; it will help in motivating customers to purchasing tracking bands. Skimming price causes low sales, in order to expand its market reach, Fitbit needs to provide different types of lucrative offers to attract and retain customers. Place Fitbit can sell its products globally through website and ecommerce. It sells through its own website in US market; it has also tied up with various e-commerce sites catering different local markets. Above stated product recommendation will enhance product reach of Fitbit, it can be sold at different fitness centre, through health insurance companies, and there will be more intermediaries and ease of customer reach. It will also facilitate in enhancing product awareness in the market. Promotion Promotional goals of Fitbit are to increase its market reach, product reach, create awareness. Its media objective is to make such advertisements that will help in making people realize that its easy to remain fit. Social media is being strongly used promotional tool for the company, Facebook activity is the most widely used tool that include various interactive sessions, workout reports, information sharing. Facebook can be used to interact with customers, inform them about various offers(Chaffey, 2008). There is need to create advertisements that create an emotional bond between customers and the product; it aims to make them aware regarding uniqueness of its possession and usage. Sales promotion tools will also help in tying up with various health care organizations, fitness centres and health insurers. With business development, Fitbit can also launch its offers through print media, magazines on health, fitness and healthy living(Czinkota Kotabe, 2001). Conclusion Fitbit is a successful name in wrist-bands to clip-type devices for health tracking but there is much scope left to be tapped. Market scenario shows positive trend of growth and future prospects for this business. Though there is intense market competition but innovation and quality customer service helped Fitbit to remain at the top. Fitbit is presently targeting a small customer segment but it can plan for further expansion to reach a larger group and market. It is advised that Fitbit can enhance its market reach by partnering with healthcare service providers, fitness centres and health insurers. References Entire News Link. (2016, March 1). Fitbit Blaze is a whole workout in a wearable. Retrieved September 16, 2016, from www.entirenewslink.com: https://www.entirenewslink.com/fitbit-blaze-is-a-whole-workout-in-a-wearable/ Chaffey. (2008). Internet Marketing: Strategy, Implementation And Practice, 3/E. New Delhi: Pearson Education India. Czinkota, M. R., Kotabe, M. (2001). Marketing management. Boston: South-Western College Pub. Dibi, S., Simkin, L. (1996). The Market Segmentation Workbook: Target Marketing for Marketing Managers. London: Cengage Learning EMEA, . Dumoriter, A. (2016, January 8). The Market Misunderstands Fitbit -- Here's Why. Retrieved January 24, 2017, from www.fool.com: https://www.fool.com/investing/general/2016/01/08/the-market-misunderstands-fitbit-heres-why.aspx fitbit.com. (2015). Who We Are. Retrieved January 24, 2017, from /www.fitbit.com: https://www.fitbit.com/in/about fitbit.com. (2016). Fitbit Privacy Pledge. Retrieved January 24, 2017, from fitbit.com: https://www.fitbit.com/en-ca/legal/previous-privacy-policy Holm, O. (2006). Integrated marketing communication: from tactics to strategy. Corporate Communications: An International Journal, 26-32. Hooley, G., Piercy, N., Nicoulaud, B. (2012). Marketing Strategy and Competitive Positioning. London: FT Prentice Hall. Kotler, P. (2012). Kotler On Marketing. New York: Simon and Schuster. Marshall, G. (2016, September 9). The story of Fitbit: How a wooden box became a $4 billion company. Retrieved January 24, 2017, from www.wareable.com: https://www.wareable.com/fitbit/youre-fitbit-and-you-know-it-how-a-wooden-box-became-a-dollar-4-billion-company McNew, S. (2015, September 15). FitBit's 7 Competitive Advantages Over Other Brands. Retrieved January 24, 2017, from /www.fool.com: https://www.fool.com/investing/general/2015/09/05/7-competitive-advantages-fitbit-says-it-has-over-o.aspx Rainmaker, D. (2015, January 20). Fitbit Surge In-Depth Review. Retrieved January 24, 2017, from www.dcrainmaker.com: https://www.dcrainmaker.com/2015/01/fitbit-surge-depth-review.html Silbert, S. (2015, December 10). Why Fitbit Is Still Winning Wearables. Retrieved January 24, 2017, from fortune.com: https://fortune.com/2015/12/10/why-fitbit-winning/ Stables, J. (2015, February 23). Basis Peak v Fitbit Surge: Battle of the super trackers. Retrieved January 24, 2017, from /www.wareable.com: https://www.wareable.com/fitness-trackers/basis-peak-vs-fitbit-surge-861 statista.com. (2016). Facts and statistics on Fitbit. Retrieved January 24, 2017, from statista.com/: https://www.statista.com/topics/2595/fitbit/ Stevenson, A. (2016, october 16). Fitbit CEO reveals hes transforming the mission and purpose of the company. Retrieved January 24, 2017, from cnbc.com: https://www.cnbc.com/2016/10/06/fitbit-ceo-reveals-hes-transforming-the-mission-and-purpose-of-the-company.html tradingeconomics.com. (2015). USA GDP. Retrieved January 24, 2017, from tradingeconomics.com: https://www.tradingeconomics.com/USA/gdp www.fitbit.com. (2016, September). Product. Retrieved January 24, 2017, from www.fitbit.com/: https://www.fitbit.com/in/surge?utm_source=Googleutm_medium=Search_utm_campaign=IN-Model-Surge-Exact#features