The Groove eating-place and Blue Note Jazz offer social spaces where one listens to live music while eating and drinking. At the Groove club, an individual gets the opportunity to attend to musical performances such as funk, soul, and rnb. On the other hand, at the Blues Note hosts musicians who can perform classical or traditional, blues and folk types of music. This paper will carry out an in-depth analysis of the differences and similarities between the music at the two social places (Prokhorov, 2002).

The differences

Music is an ever-evolving art, and a performer has to pay close attention to some fundamental things to bring out the intended sound. To convey an RnB sound at a concert, the musicians made use of instruments such as drums, piano, trumpet, and other electric devices (video). The combination of the instruments produced the soulful sound of RnB as the musicians sung and performed hits from well-known tunes such as purpose rain by the late Prince

One of the common features at the concert is the mixture of jazz sound, and blues sounds to make the rnb unique sound. More so, beats and bass were the only distinct features that allowed a reveler to know that a performer switched from rnb to funk and soul. For one to notice the unmistakable sound of funk, the performer applied robust deep-toned lines that intertwined with low sound beats (video). The beat of funk jumps from soft to hard hits that incorporate accents, offbeat and space for one to join in and sing along to the song. Additionally, the beats possess energy that makes one want to get up and dance to the beat. Although rnb is a combination of various genres, it is good to note the contrast as the proceeds.

 Blue note Jazz

On the other hand, Blue Note Jazz club takes pride in hosting classical, blues and folk. In fact, the three types of music mentioned above are genres that stand-alone and are not a combination of other kinds. This fact sets them aside from RnB music and funk, which are a combination of various sounds. While performing live classical music, there is the use of few electrical instruments (video). Classical music can utilize voice in acapella type of compositions; flutes and the four trumpet are common in performing classical. The reliance on the apparatus to bring the rhythm is critical to classical music. The performers focused on singing covers of other well-known classical musicians such as the second movement. Classical music does not need a singer, but the instrumentation is one of its distinct features. Once the instrumentation is right, everything else follows through. The performance was an orchestra that produced light classical music. The performance was regarding homophobic tunes, which means that one rhythm played by all Musical instruments at the same time, unlike rnb where tunes produced through a layering of other sounds. The music was regular and contained a theme. The string section of the orchestra commences the music and set the tone for other instruments (Wimble, 2014).

Blues performers used a guitar, drums, trumpets, and the harmonica to bring out a melancholy sound. The harmonica enabled the performers' convention   calling and responding kind of music. The guitar gave the blues sound a unique rhythm as it does not pass through a soundboard. Blues focus on romantic messages or life lessons one learned as they walked through life. Thus, they are highly sentimental or emotional and lyrical. More so, the lyrics designed along three lines. The first lyrics are not that different from the rest of the lyrics. The performers engaged instruments such as the banjo and piano to give the performance a more recent sound that would entertain young revelers at the concert. To bring performance into life, the musicians used the variety of modern beats on the background to set the mood of the concert whenever the w took a break from singing (video). The dependence of blues to rhythm and a singer's personal touch is vital to bring the message into the limelight and retain attention. In other words, blues relies heavily on the delivery than standard sound. In the middle of the blues songs, the s performers sung some folk songs. Although folk songs do not have any standard, they are orally delivered and have a message that ties itself to the compositional patterns of the singer. For instance, the performer made sure to use improvisation and storytelling to tag people along as he belted the tunes to the songs. Despite the improvisation, the features of the folk song during an instrumental performance are standard to folk songs. The tense deep voice accompanied by the soft instrumental to make the folk songs livelier.

Similarities

Performance combined language and instruments to raise awareness on the message. For instance while the mood was good and the performance portrayed a as message, they brought it out using their words and body language. Another common thing between the two performances is the ability to tailor music to such the event and not just adhere to the rules and norms associated with specific genre (Wimble, 2014).

In short, the delivery of the music has to pay attention to details that retain the genres of the music. Rnb is a fusion of funk, soul and other genres, the mixture produces a different sound that n makes it stand out as unique and noticeable. In addition, classical songs can utilize electrical instruments .Orchestra makes use of different instruments to bring about one sound. Classical songs are not aggressive but use themes to convey messages to the audience.

References

Prokhorov, V. (2002). Russian folk songs: Musical genres and history. Lanham

Wimble, D. (2014). The Indie Bible: 15th Edition (2014). Cork: BookBaby.

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Coffee Shop

Introduction

    The coffee shop is one of the most vibrant businesses in the world today. It offers excellent returns and profit margins. My coffee shops are based on sales of both coffee drinks and its substitutes. Also we, sell snacks so that we gather customers who have not been captured by our products. We usually rent outlets in big malls, supermarkets and insides schools cafeterias. We have hired highly qualified staff so that we can deliver highly efficient and effective services. We also offer outside catering services for weddings, graduations and other dignified ceremonies.

    Auto sum function usually save time because one does not have to key in every digit to add with another one so that to get summation. The only thing one has to do is calculate the first one and then drag the answer to the rest of the column. It also minimizes the degree and risk of error. These make the work more accurate and meaningful. The auto format does the job to have uniformity with other organization. These make it easier for stakeholders to interpret it when need be. It also simplifies the task of the preparer, therefore, making him produce a more quality report. The average formula gives us the average performance of the business each month and the cumulative one. These will help the potential investors to weigh how the company performs before they inject their cash. Percentage sale margin is a function that will show the investors or lenders how the revenues have been playing in the market. It will also help them to know the viability of the business whether it is a going concern. Password function will ensure that our work is encrypted and protected from any intruder who may access it without our consent.

Organizational Leadership

Introduction

    For an organization to be more effective and efficient, good leadership must be exercised by those in authority. This is because they are the individuals conferred with the mandate of making decisions, planning for the same and ensuring plans are implemented according to what organization expectation. Leadership is the management body of the organization. To make leadership more effective, management is categorized into three namely; top management, middle management, and first management levels. Leadership also involves strategic thinking. Leaders should be more strategic in how they articulate their duties and handle matters regarding the organization. They should be guided by the mission statement, vision, intent and goals and objectives of the organization. The leader should also ensure that there is good communication between the management and the subordinates so that a good relation is maintained. He should also ensure that organization culture, norms and values have been preserved by every individual within the organization. Good and favourable climatic environment should also be maintained at all time. This environment cannot be achieved without observing organization ethics and professional codes of conducts. They are the guidelines that dictate the how each and every individual within the organization should behave. This will bring harmony and peace coexistence. One of the functions of a manager or a leader is planning. Therefore he should ensure that planning is done strategically. All processes of planning must be followed. He should also ensure that every individual is involved in his plan. This will enable him to have easy time when their help is required. It also helps everyone feels associated to the plan. It is the role of a leader to solve and manage conflict whenever such arise. Leaders can use different styles such as negotiation and mediation. They can also consults for assistance from other leaders within the organization.

    A good organization leadership is led by a leader who possesses certain traits and styles. They must also ensure that some leadership fundamentals have been preserved. Some of the traits that leaders should poses are; act with honesty and integrity. These will ensure that transparency within the organization. Employees will solidify trust and confidence with the administration and management as whole. He should have good communication attributes with rest of the staff management and the whole subordinate. This will enhance his relationship with the crowd. He will be able to get more information on how he might improve his styles of leading. It is through good communication that the subordinate will feel attached to the organization. He should be a decision maker. He should be capable of scrutinizing the environment and coming up with a concrete strategy that will benefit whole organization. He should also be accountable. He should own any fault that come up due to his neglect of duties. He should not transfer his mistakes to other management. He should also be able to delegate and empower the people he is leading. This will make the workflow to go as planned. Leadership also involves styles such as democratic leadership. It is also called participative leadership style because every individual within the organization get involved in the management in one way or another. There is good interaction between the management and the subordinates (Hogan, 2017, p. 58). The flow of power is both upward and downward stream. The other style is autocratic or authoritative leadership. In this power only flows from top to bottom. Subordinate only take what their leaders dictates. They are prohibited from questioning their masters’ decision. This mode of style is somehow disadvantageous since employees feels not connected to the decisions made by their leaders. They are less motivated and work well only when there is presence supervision. The third style that a leader can acquire is charismatic leadership. On this style, the leaders have used his qualities of charisma to influence his employees. Employees act with a lot of motivation; they are more inspired by their charismatic leader. The leadership is exercised through several level of management. The highest level of management is top level of management which comprises of C.E.O’s, Managing directors and Company presidents. They are responsible of overall performance of the organizational. They formulate strategies and policies of the organization. Below it is the middle level management. These are divisional managers, head of department, branch managers and unit managers. They direct their activities to the lower managers. They are responsible for implementing policies within the organization. The last are first level management. They are the foremen, supervisors, office assistant et al. They direct activities to the lowest level of individuals (Kotter, 2012, p. 82).

    One of the functions of management within an organization is planning. Planning should be done strategically. All due process and stages should be observed. Managers should ensure that organization objectives do such. Planning is a process where managers decides in advance where, when and what to be done. It should follow the following steps: first, the manager should establish objectives to be achieved. Goals and objectives of the plan should be well and stated. Each should be well informed of the target of the plan. The managers should also establish planning premises. This is the assumption about the lively shape of events. The third step is formulating choice of alternative course of action. Managers should use analytical method to evaluate the stability choices of objective and test evaluating the best alternative is chosen. After that manager formulate a derivative plan which is sub-plan which will help in the achievement of the primary plan. This sub-plan indicates time to scheme and sequence of accomplishing various plans. The fifth step is to secure cooperation so that it can give the implementers’ of this plan confidence. The final step is making follow-ups on all appraisal plans. These will ensure that the program it authenticated and implemented accordingly. All these steps will make the project to work toward achievement of the goals (Lewis, 2003, p. 34). For the following characteristics to have a smooth run away, a manager should have the following in his back of his mind about what his plan. A plan should be goal oriented. It should focus on achievement of the targeted objective. It is a mental activity which involves creativity, right judgment and illusion but in rational thinking. It also involves choices and decision making from the vast pool of choices. It is a continuous process caused by the dynamic business environment. It should allow flexibility such as accommodating any vital change that would make it more effective. It is a pervasive process since it requires all level of management and department. Planning involves three levels which are strategic or corporate planning. These are carried out by the top level of control and covers considerable time. The managerial plan carried by middle-level managers covers activities of various department and sections. The last level is operational or tactical planning that is carried out by first level management on a daily basis (Lewis, 2003, p. 95).

    Every successful organization must have ethics and professional code of conducts. Ethics are the way of behaviors while a professional code of conducts is set guidelines that must be observed by profession during his work. There are two types of organization ethics: Business ethics and Management ethics. Business ethics is concerned with a rule, task and a variety of aspects such as the expectation of society, fair competitions, advertising, social responsibilities et al. they involve all members of the organization. There are Management ethics which are the moral code of conduct that guides the behavior of a manager during his work. Managers should act in a manner that is acceptable not only to the members of the organization but by the members of the public. He is the outlook of an organization. He has the mandate of creating an environment that promotes ethics that promote institutional ethics (Lussier & Achua, 2015, p. 103). These will be achieved by establishing appropriate company’s code of conducts, teaching ethics and introducing management development program as such, finally by appointing ethics committee to enforce ethical behavior. Every ethics and code of conduct should be documented in the company’s document. It should be well written, precise and toward the objective of the company. There should be an ethics committee who are mandated with preserving and protecting the organization ethics and codes of conducts. The committee also should hold a regular meeting to discuss any ethical issues that arise. They also communicate codes of conducts to all members of the organization, rewards compliance and punishing violators. The committee also gives a comprehensive report to the board of directors, update and review codes of conducts to fit international standard and check for possible violation of the ethics and codes of the organization. However, the committee should acquire some qualities to make ethical behaviors more acceptable to all the employees including the management at free will. The committee should ensure that remuneration of employees had been done reasonably. It will make easier to avoid an unnecessary rebellion from the workers. They should also encourage ethical training and development programmes to foster the know-how of the employees toward the ethical issues. They should come up with ways of developing codes of ethics so as they match international requirements. Violators of the laws of ethics should be punished openly to deter others. They should conduct frequent and unpredictable ethics audits. These will enhance any part that might be weak and requires rectification. They should encourage whistleblower so that people can pro-speak about any incidence that is about to happen. Finally, the committee should recognize and award ethical behaviors (Lussier & Achua, 2015, p. 115).

    Organizational culture is vital for an organization to be successful. Organization cultures are the beliefs norms values and principles that an organization must follow to attain its objective. It’s through a good culture that organization ethics are preserved. It also improves company’s image into the outside world. Organization culture also influences organizational behavior. Organization culture has the following functions: reduction of conflict because there is a common and consistency perception toward handling a problem. A problem is identified, evaluated and a solving solution is attained. Organization culture also aids in coordination and control of processes within the organization. It also helps in reducing uncertainty by lowering anxiety within the organization. Well behaved employees’ leads to motivation. It is through loyalty, beliefs, and values that encourage employees. Solid culture upgrades chances of being successful in the market, i.e., competitive advantage. The managers should follow following procedures to ensure that they have created and sustained organization culture. First, they should create organization culture.  Good leadership will deliver the organization will to good culture. He ensures that good morals and values have been maintained all way through. After creation of intended culture, the next step is how it should be maintained all way through. The manager should pre-select potential recruits who will be the soldiers of the culture. They will be required to preserve culture all the way. The next stage will be socialization where selected recruits are allocated to groups so as they can influence the newcomers. The final stage is incorporating or rejecting stage where culture is refused or accepted by the system. If rejected the manager should plan on how to change it. He should first establish a norm gap in the existing culture to know where he will apply the change and where he won’t modify change. Next is to apply the desired culture’s system and introduction. The third step is installing the system and modifies the existing one. Finally is to evaluate and renewing the on-going culture (Lewis, 2003, p. 59).

    Organization conflict management is vital in creating harmony within the company. Conflict is solved in an orderly manner, and both sides of division get justified. Managers and the administration at large should come up with strategies that will be laid down to solve any conflicts. The board should elect a disciplinary team which will be confined to a mandate of conflict solving. Some of the strategies that they may use are accommodating approach where the conflict is solved by giving the opposite side what they want. The second strategy is avoiding plan where one ignores or delays a battle. The third is compromising strategy where they call both sides to give up and come to neutral grounds. Collaborating approach is where they involve many categories of employees to try and determine the cause and solve the dispute. Finally is competing strategy where the board rules on one side. It is a zero-sum game. One has to lose for the other to win. Despite these strategies, the management has to train the employees on how to handle conflict amongst them. Not every battle should be taken to the highest authority. It will save time and resources. They should also encourage symposiums training and development within the organization regarding conflict management from global professionals. For example of a simple process which can be followed is: start with talking to the other person about the subject matter, observe their behaviors and do not be blinded by their personalities. Be keen on what they are saying, identifying their disputes. Prioritize conflicts areas and come up with a well-structured plan. Implement the program and finally solidify your success with supportive answers (Bradberry & Greaves, 2009, p. 59).

    The organization should have a high performing team. These will enable it to attain its goals and objective. Also, it would enhance its possibility of being a going concern. For an organization to have a high performing team, managers should ensure that several things had been done accordingly. He should ensure that there is a division of labor among the employees to improve practices and familiarization on the side of the job. They should also ensure that the authority give can be linked with the responsibilities. Discipline should be preserved all the time in the working environment both by the management and the employees. There should be a unit of command where every employee is answerable to one superior. The plan should come from one direction in order avoid conflicts. There should be equity for all the workers to allow inclusivity. This way employee will feel motivated. Centralization of activities will be a kind gesture as it will be easier to solve many cases without delay. Employees should be rewarded well and justly. No one wants to work with low salaries. Employees will feel rejuvenated and motivated to work well if they are paid well. Managers should also ensure that there is order with the organization. Every employee and resources should be at right place at the right time. They should also encourage teamwork among the employees. These will create knowledge sharing, talents, and abilities which will eventually enhance the capabilities of others. Employees should be made secure of their job tenure. These will eliminate the fear of the unknown where the future can be predicted to them. These solidify level of trust that they pose toward the organization. There should also exist graduated line of authority where it flows from upward to downward. These will make the managers in different levels take orders from the above and disseminate downwards. This, in turn, will eliminate ghost workers and slow movers (Project Management Institute, 2013, p. 112).

    Whenever change is brought into organization, it is faced with resistance. Therefore it is vital for a manager to be equipped and knowledge of how to go about it without creating a negative notion among the employee. Some of the reason why employee fear change is fear of unknown fear of losing job change of activities et al. This will be achieved only if a due process is followed when lying down change. A manager should start by strategizing his plan of change. Under this, he defines his strategy, team and chart. The second part is to develop change and apply implementation. The final change is to reinforcing his plan to work effectively and efficiently. Change should also be applied in various forms. There is parallel phase where change is applied at the same time with the existing programme. The second one is direct phase where the existing programme is ceased while the new one is applied immediately. Third is pilot phase where a desired change is applied at a small section to test whether it can work through. If not, then it is aborted but it is okay then is applied to the whole organization. The manager should also evaluate the size of the organization and its structure so that he can be able to know which method is suitable to apply. For example, where the organization has many branches, the suitable method is using a pilot phase. It will be easier to evaluate the performance, efficient and effectiveness of the change applied (Hogan, 2017, p. 64).

     We can conclude that for an organization to have effective leadership and allow authority flow well, several components have to be taken care off. Each element relates to one another. Leadership should exhibit good traits and style of leadership so that they can make a strategic plan. For a strategic plan to be effective, ethical and professional codes of conducts must be observed. Also, ethics will lead to a high performing workforce who maintains integrity, good communication, honesty, and transparency. This will raise the corporate image of the whole organization. The ability of the management to solve and manage conflict within the organization ensures there is harmony, peace, and unity within leading to strong teamwork. Culture, norms, and values of the firm should be observed at all time. They should act as a guideline so that organizational goals and objectives are attained on time and as planned. These will save time and resources thus achieve cost minimization and profit maximization. Change should be applied according to how the organization is structured and area of occupied. Managers should ensure that there is a good correlation between how the workers perceive the change in question and the management intended objective of the plan. These are some but few of the leadership that a manager should use to attain organizational goals and objectives.

References

Bradberry, T., & Greaves, J. (2009). Emotional intelligence 2.0. San Diego, CA: TalentSmart.

Hogan, J. A. (2017). The study of behavior: Organization, methods, and principles.

Kotter, J. P. (2012). Leading change: An action plan. Place of publication not identified: Must Read Summaries.

Lewis, J. P. (2003). Project leadership. New York: McGraw-Hill.

Lussier, R. N., & Achua, C. F. (2015). Leadership: Theory, application, & skill development.

Project Management Institute. (2013). A guide to the project management body of knowledge (PMBOK® guide). Newtown Square, Pennsylvania: Project Management Institute, Inc.

                                    BUSINESS MANAGEMENT                    

Financial Analysis for Coca-Cola Beverage Company

Financial Analysis, Planning and Control

Abstract

The objective of this paper entails examining the financial statement of the Coca-Cola Company during the past years that have passed.  In this case, ratios, such as the leverage ratio, liquidity, and profitability as well as the size analysis regarding the income statement of the company are the main factors which are taken into consideration when determining its financial position. Despite the fact that the company has been experiencing a tremendous increase in its revenue, its liquidity base is still based on the debt financing strategies it has which are also based within a certain range (Keown et al., 2017).

Company overview

The Coca-Cola Company is an American multinational beverage company headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia. The company’s day-to-day operating activities include manufacturing, retailing, as well as marketing nonalcoholic beverages and syrups. This company is well recognized for its flagship product Coca-Cola which was established in 1886. Conversely, the financial base of the company is one of the factors which have made it to increase its scale of operation worldwide. Although each manufacturing activity of the company is conducted differently, all of them are governed differently. Likewise, although the main competitor of the company is Pepsi, the company uses various promoting activities, such as advertising so as to gain a higher customer base (Bodden, 2009). Since there is no much differentiation of its products, such strategies come from asset management which the enterprise takes from its advertising standpoint. In their industry, the exit barriers are somehow moderate since the equipment and the techniques used in producing products are fairly specialized. It is the huge investment which the company makes which enables it to be the main competitor in their industry. Equally, its management authority has managed to set industry standards, which enables it to continue enjoying the economies of scale in all its branches. The company also has a network of distribution channels and, a well-established relationship which is cultivated with the various players found in that channel.

Common Size Income Statement

Considering the annual statement of the Coca-Cola Company over the past four years that have passed, it means that it is easier to evaluate its marketing trends over time as well as across other businesses found in the same industry. Thus, the common size income statement is typically perceived as being the percentage of sales which the company makes which this duration. This statement is tabulated below

Form the above data; it implies that the common size income statement is ultimately used for the purpose of comparing line products across the industry and other associated companies. Each individual item is divided by the sales the company made which that year, which in return gives the percentage of sale made. With that percentage at hand, it implies that it is easier to compare the value of different companies as well as that of differentiated industries. This implies that the common size income statement is typically compared with the net income numbers of the company achieves in each year (Keown et al., 2017).

As shown in the following table, the sales of the company had consistently increased over the past 3 years. It decreased by 15.43% in 2017 from 2016, after an increase of 18.44% in 2016. In 2016, it means that the company had managed to make more sales as compared to the percentage of sales which was obtained in 2015 (18.44%).

From the above table, it implies that the company’s SG&A is comparable to the costs of sales since is based on the extensive product promotions the company makes. The other lines of products are ultimately fairly similar during these years. Conversely, this information indicates that the short-term obligations of the company had increased substantially because of the decline in sales and the extensive competition experienced in the same industry. Such a re-casted income statement suggest that the income generating trend the company have been experiencing indicates how well the management authority have been fairing on well in improving their economies of scale so as to continue thriving in the current beverage market (Keown et al., 2017).

Graphical representation of profit margin

  Y-axis

                                                                                                                                                     50                              

            40    

% change

            30   

            20

            10

                                    2015                      2016                                2017

                                                                  Year

for the past three years that have passed, it implies that the company have been having a reasonable profit margin give in return gives it enough capital for reinvesting or distributing to its shareholders. Thus, the decline in its profit margin can also be said to be brought about the extensive competition it encounters in the industry. Although the company has been having higher equity returns, profit margin is a good indicator of how its assets are utilized in improving its financial base. Considering the number of investments which was made by the potential investors, it means that the company had the potential of increasing assets with such an investment.

This suggests that the revenues that the company generates can be spread out effectively so as to cater for the expenses the company has as well as retaining enough money for investing or paying investors. The importance of the company’s profit margin indicates that the management authority is given the opportunity of lowering their prices when the economy worsens. In case, the company managed to obtain a higher profit margin, it implies that it was possible for the company to accept less revenue but still have the ability of covering all expenses.

Return on assets

The company’s return on assets is used for the purpose of measuring the manner in which the company has been generating its profits per share dollar of assets which it has. It assists in illustrating how efficiently the management authority utilizes its assets in generating profit. Therefore, a higher the percentage indicates how efficiently the company has been using its assets. This is important because it assists potential investors in determining whether their funds were wisely invested (Keown et al., 2017). Mostly, the assets of the company are made of marketable securities, long-term intangible and tangible assets which it trades in. despite that, the marketable securities and cash are not the main trading or income generating securities because they are not invested in anything. Although these numbers can either be down or high, the truth is that the company would be better off without them. This, therefore, indicates that other long-term investment assets are important in evaluating the manner in which the company has been investing its money so as to generate more of it in the long run. The reason as to why the net income that the company has been declining is because the amount of assets required in maintaining its day-to-day operating activities have been rising.

Earnings before interest and tax (EBIT) margin

From the above table, it means that such figures are important in evaluating the true day-to-day operating capacity of the company. The reason for that is because incorporates all the sources the company uses in generating revenue, the costs the company incurs, but excluding tax and interest expense. The importance of excluding tax and interest expenses is because they are not regarded as operating expenses. EBIT is essential in determining the manner in which the company has been using generated revenues in covering its operating expenses (Keown et al., 2017).

Conclusion

The Coca-Cola Company has been having a considerable increase in total revenues for the past three years. The capacity of generating revenue enables it to meet both the short-term and the long-term obligations so as to improve its economies of scale. The company’s day-to-day receivables are also impressive. What equally makes it impressive to invest with this company is because the majority of its businesses are conducted overseas. The general increase in assets is also attributed to the equitable utilization of resources as well as the extensive reinvestments which the company makes. Therefore, for investors, it wise to use the stocks of the company in making wise investments. 

References

Keown, A.J, Martin, J.D, & Petty, J. W. (2017). Foundations of Finance.Pearson Publishing Co.

Bodden, V. (2009). The story of Coca-Cola. Mankato, MN: Creative Education.

Market analysis H&M Company

1. Introduction

Fast fashion is a rising trend in the global fashion wear industry. The development of fast fashion has had an increasing influence on the clothing industry across the varying spectrum ranging from production to retailing. Although product sales are the main motivation behind profits, retailers ought to focus on meeting the consumer service standards. Service quality has proven to be the driver of the attainment of customer loyalty and attraction of potential consumers. This paper therefore, will seek to present and analyze H&M market strategy. First, the paper will assess H&M’s environment, customer considerations and market mix. Finally, the paper will provide strategic recommendations for H&M Company.

1. Background

H&M Company is one of the top clothing dealers in the industry. The company is a retailer and its operations are fundamentally situated in Asia, Europe, and North America. Globally, the company has more than 1500 outlets (Ding, 2011, 4). One of its core market strategies is to offer unique designer clothes to the whole population across the globe at affordable prices. It builds its strength through its ability to harmonize retail channels operations such as the internet, stores, and catalogs within the varying geographical locations. It also strengthens its market approach through the provision of impartial product mix which attracts a number of potential consumers. Today, the company is an international fashion and design firm with a high number of stores, markets, and a very strong digital presence. Conversely, the company faces the increasing threat of reduction of sales within the European zone intensified by the strong competition from Zara Gap and Uniqlo. The three brands within the industry have therefore endeavored to take different market approaches. These approaches have thus been successful and most especially in Zara and H&M brands (Arlbjørn, 2008, 55).

1. Marketplace, environment, and competitors

OZUEM & AZEMI (2018, 76) asserts that the fast fashion industry is growing at a rapid rate. The author continues to argue that the top leading companies in this industry include Zara, Gap, Uniqlo, and H&M. These three companies have been competing for years for differentiation and in taking their positions within the market. Zara and H&M are the leading brands in the market.

1. Porter 5 forces

According to Youell (2013, 110), H&M adopts the porter 5 forces so as to determine the competitive strength and ultimately the pleasant appearance of that market.

The risk of new entrant is quite high in the clothing industry since minimal capital is required. Moreover, there are numerous manufacturers who are available and this result to formation of an open market for all entrants (Youell, 2013, 110).

Suppliers have a low bargaining power in this industry since there are numerous suppliers who are homogenous and have little differentiation. Rapid globalization and international trade have offered more options for retailers to outsource foreign manufacturers from low wage nations. This has thus resulted in increased competition (Youell, 2013, 110).

Excess accumulation of retailers in the market has increased the bargaining power of buyers. Buyers are therefore at free will to switch from one brand preference to another.

Though there lack direct substitutes for clothes, there are retail substitutes. For instance, the online stores who offer another medium in which clothes are marketed and sold (Youell, 2013, 111).

Competitive Rivalry intensity rate has increased to higher levels following the high number of homogenous retailers (Youell, 2013, 111).

1. SWOT analysis

1. Customer considerations

H&M Company applies the STP market model in their operations. The STP process illustrates the connection between the overall market and the ways through which the company chooses to compete with other competitors in the market.

• Segmentation

This is an approach used by the company to sub-divide the market or the population into subdivisions which are defined by homogenous characteristics. H&M majorly uses the demographics and psychographic segmentation so as to have a wide reach to all of their customers. The company is thus spread across the world. This means that the company has a wide range of target which includes varying religions, culture as well as lifestyles (OZUEM & AZEMI (2018, 67). They, therefore, carry out their marketing in a different way within all the varying regions. H&M has classified the market into different lifestyles, age groups, class, and the home setting.

1. Target

H&M targets potential customers to whom they wish to sell their products to. They target customers who belong to a class of fashionable and stylish customer class. The targeted group is those who value shopping as they find it more of a social activity that provides pleasure in their daily lives. These consumers have a tendency of following what is trending without investing much finance. H&M therefore highly targets young people and women who are believed to be more of shoppers than men (OZUEM & AZEMI (2018, 67).

1. Positioning

H&M Retailer Company is on the lookout to provide customers with trendy, stylish and high-quality clothing at the most affordable prices possible. The company offers fast fashion type of clotheslines that ranges from the runway to racks within the record time. They focus on selling clothes that are highly influenced by the European culture to other American markets (OZUEM & AZEMI (2018, 67). In addition, H&M Company specializes in a wide range of brand categories of all gender and age-group wear. They also produce accessories and footwear for all gender and all for all ages.

1. Market mix
2. Product

H&M Company has expanded their market through bringing in six unique brands into the market. These brands have been so successful in meeting the needs of the target market and those of consumers within different segments. The company offers homogenous shopping brands across different regions. Most of the consumers shop at H&M due to their affordable pricing and features. The company’s stores have different departments. Each department in the company provides various clothing lines in order to attract a large population as possible (Markovic & Rakocevic, 2014, 1779). This enhances convenience within the company. As a result of the convenience found within this company, most of the consumers are attracted to purchase goods from the company.

H&M often focus on selling high-quality products that are inspired by the trending fashion and for a matchless price. They thus invest so much into coming up with new product lines. One of the common products is the cheap Monday brand that meets the needs of all sexes in relation to fashion and design. This brand has the influence of street stylish and youth subway way of lifestyles. At its core, the company offers new denim frenzy which it prides itself in with an enormous range of apparel and accessories at relatively low prices (Markovic & Rakocevic, 2014, 1779). H&M products and services go through a product life cycle that involves introduction, growth, maturity and decline level. Marketing personnel often use this product lifecycle process to project the future of the products and services.

• Price

H&M pricing strategy is designed based on the consumers’ needs which involve getting fast fashion trends at affordable prices. For the company to cut on the cost of production, they have implemented on some cost-cutting strategies. The company has made an effort to outsource production to nations where the labor cost is minimal (Markovic & Rakocevic, 2014, 1779). Outsourcing is arranged basing on the different products and this has helped in reducing the transportation cost. The high fashion apparel which targets the European market has a short product life and thus is made in Turkey. Moreover, basic H&M products are produced in Asia since they allow long transportation period and put up with lower risks. H&M often carry out strict cost control strategies. For instance, the company reduces most of the privileges such as cellphone privileges to executives within the company. Also, only a few of the executives have secretaries. This has allowed the company to attain a low price apparel fashion business.

• Promotion

H&M target audience mostly includes young women who want to be trendy at relatively lower prices. The company invests in a multi-channel promotion approach which includes advertising, digital promotion through the internet, and sales promotion. This wide array of promotion channels has increased the exposure of H&M company products and services. Young people, therefore, have a lot of access to information about what the company offers (Markovic & Rakocevic, 2014, 1779). H&M focus on promotional actions with two features. The company often uses posters that are in a trendy style and always have the price of the company’s product. On the other hand, the company’s website contains prices displayed at obvious positions. The company always highlights their relatively low prices unlike other competitors, Zara and the Gap who put their prices online but on small fonts. However, as H&M Company focuses on highlighting their prices, they build awareness of their low prices to potential consumers (Markovic & Rakocevic, 2014, 1780).

1. Place

H&M Company has had great expansion since its foundation most especially in 2016 when the company added more than 427 stores. It has grown its reach through the use of both online and physical medium of sale. H&M logistics are characterized by their focus on simplicity, consistency, and precision. The company invests in designing and outsourcing apparel. Basic products within the company are made in Asia while trendy apparels are made in Turkey. The company values owning outlets rather than owning factories. Successful distribution strategy within the company determines the realization of the H&M’s business plan (Markovic & Rakocevic, 2014, 1779). The company’s distribution channel is that of direct distribution where goods are conveyed directly from producers to customers. Cutting on the middle transaction reduces the cost to the company and guarantees quick delivery. H&M chooses to sell their products in their stores. Their choice of store selling is of importance to them as it assures their consumer's basic access. However, the control of the numerous numbers of stores increases the managerial cost. As a result, the company has commenced on online sales in a number of areas. H&M international network has continually grown and it is planning to promote their apparel line (Markovic & Rakocevic, 2014, 1779).

1. Recommendation
2. Ansoff strategy
3. Market penetration

H&M should focus on market penetration for new products and new markets. This involves motivating the current consumers to buy more products. The company should launch new products frequently as this will assist in maintaining the customers as they come back, again and again, to check out on the trending designer. It should also focus on having unique selling positions which ought to differentiate its clotheslines and other products from other competitors such as Zara and the Gap companies. Advertising is one of the elements of market penetration. This helps in convincing consumers and reminds them of the apparel (Zawadzka, 2015, 48). The company should, therefore, endeavor to reach out to most of their target market through advertising as it will greatly contribute in convincing customers to purchase their products.

1. Market development

H&M should establish expansion strategy that will focus on the already existing products and markets. This will be enhanced by improving the cost position. This will, therefore, call for the company to strategize on how they will reduce their cost of production so as to attain a reduced pricing strategy. An alternative approach for differentiation ought to be implemented in the company as this will help in distinguishing the company’s brand amongst all of their competitors hence increasing the competitive edge for H&M. The company should also endeavor to focus on the best consumers who will help the company to meet their sales goals. It is also recommended that the company ought to strategically innovate so as to remain competitive within the market.

Ding, 2011, 49 claims that one of the main challenges facing H&M compared to its competitors is that the company holds a quarter of its stock within its stores. The large stock is made up of fast fashion products that are produced internally and later distributed to independent factories. However, the competitors have a different approach as they move quickly through their stores where they replace their stocks with fresh designs. The keeping of large stock by H&M results in increased expenditures and can lead to wastage once fashion keeps on changing. The company should, therefore, concentrate on rebranding their products and redirecting their market.

• Product development

Product development for the company involves launching of new apparel into the existing market. The company should, therefore, consider coming up with new possibilities.  They should invest heavily in developing products with new features, for instance, producing cosmetics that have different and unique new shades. H&M products are temporally and thus it is required that the company should focus on maintaining their innovations and products development so as to remain on top of the market. This helps marketers in developing an effective market strategy for the clotheslines developed by the company.

• Diversification

However, H&M’s goal to reduce their overreliance on the European market is sensible due to the prolonged recovery and the numerous strong opportunities existing in other places. Therefore, it is recommended that the company should consider renovating their already existing stores so as to drive more sales from the company (Youell, 2013, 116). This increases returns hence increasing chances of diversification.

1. Conclusion

As evidenced by the above analysis, it can be concluded that H&M has greatly made efforts to accomplish their stability and growth across the world. The company has maintained a strong brand preference for teenagers due to its cutback based pricing with the trendy apparel. The H&M secret to its success lies in its focus on fast fashion. It takes a shorter time for their fast fashion products to reach the market from the designer’s office than the ordinary fashion designs. The company, therefore, uses a strategic approach to evaluate some of these competitors seeking to evaluate their strengths and weaknesses. The information obtained from this analysis is helpful to the company as it will assist in improving the efforts of the company. They have also formed a strong brand recognition that seeks to have a selective brand with a strong clothe line focusing more on product development of their apparel line. The fast fashion industry is often dominated by the change in tastes and preferences and therefore consumers are highly unpredictable. H&M Company should, therefore, invest in research and development approaches. This involves conducting periodic research on the products that the company offers. This will help to determine whether the existing products are still appealing to consumers. This way, successful measures can be taken to assist in coming to terms with the existing market desires across all regions. The company has also focused on macro environmental factors affecting their company hence have been able to realize digital marketing opportunity. It is important to note that all of the company’s efforts are geared towards maintaining their leading position in apparel fashion industry. H&M has always new products being introduced in the market. However, being a clothing brand, it does not necessarily require innovation of a whole new clothing line. Most importantly, its focus should be on staying on the top of the fast fashion trend. With great product development, market penetration, diversification and market development, the business will be able to successfully take their position in the global market.

1. References Top of Form

Bottom of Form

Top of Form

Bottom of Form

Arlbjørn, J. S. (2008). Northern lights in logistics & supply chain management. Køge, Copenhagen Business School Press.

Ding, H., 2011. The importance of strategic management: A case study of H&M.

Markovic, A & Rakocevic, S.B. (2014).Proceedings Of The Xiv International Symposium Symorg 2014: New Business Models And Sustainable Competitiveness. FON.

OZUEM, W., & AZEMI, Y. (2018). Digital marketing strategies for fashion and luxury brands. Hershey, PA, IGI Global, Business Science Reference.

 Youell, M., 2013. An Analysis of the Growth and Success of H&M. How They Could Impact the Largest Swiss Watch Company, Swatch Group, p.108.

Zawadzka, S., 2015. Implementation of Marketing Strategies Practiced by Western and Eastern European Fashion Brands: H&M and Reserved Case.

Consumer fraud in the market for auto repair

Introduction

When one takes their vehicle to the mechanic, all they expect is quality services. Instead, they end up leaving the automobile repair shop with worry written all over their faces. The quality of the work done under the hood of their car may not march quality standards, and they may end up spending on damage caused by the mechanic. In addition, the mistrust between the mechanic and the client is so disheartening. This paper will analyze some of the ways a client can use to ensure he safeguards himself from consumer fraud.

One of the ways a client can protect himself or herself from consumer fraud is by searching for a mechanic with an excellent reputation or a repair enterprise known to sell genuine products and offer reliable services to the consumer at an affordable cost before the car is moved to the repair room. While looking for repair automobile shops, consider a certified mechanic with expertise or skills recognized by the authorities. For instance, the blue seal of certification should be a go-ahead stamp to rely on while searching for automobile repair services within the entire neighborhood. An approval can translate into quality and reliable work. Therefore, certification is one of the hints to help in avoiding consumer fraud in the automobile industry (Friedrichs, Professor O. S. D. O. O. S. p 34).

After evaluating and deciding on a suitable workshop where a car can receive quality repair; one can communicate with the business bureau or a higher authority such as attorney general within the local area. The authorities will inform if the shop is certified or it is just a hoax to attract customers to the shop. If the response is satisfactory, one can go ahead and receive services from the shop. Although the above procedures are vital, the experience will speak louder than reputation and certification from the authorities. Most states a have no specific rules to protect people against consumer fraud. Consumer protect act has sections dedicated to auto repair fraud. Hence, consumers should be careful (Friedrichs, Professor O. S. D. O. O. S. p 56).

Coupled with finding a good reputable shop, one can decide to inspect before the mechanic at the workshop finishes the work. Consumers should learn to know what they are looking for. Being ignorant put consumer at a higher risk of consumer deception. Inspection in forms of test drive helps one to gauge the quality of work done. For instance, while test-driving; one can look for the sound the engine makes. If the music is too hoarse, it may be an assign of a neglected job (Kurvinen, Matti, and Murthy p 145).One can also try to disassemble the repaired parts to see the kind of work done under the hood of their car. Moreover, the repairing authority should come from a third party and not the mechanic. This authority will ensure due procedure and accountability. Isolation and designation of work done is also a good way of ensuring accountability (Borg, p123).

There are actions one should not do while at the automobile repair shop. One of them is allowing the mechanics to start work on the vehicle before signing an inspection form the authorities. A warm smile and a gentle handshake do not get care repaired, but a form formed the authorities showing a type of inspection the car is to under insulate the consumer from fraud that he or she might encounter. Also, a consumer should not allow anyone to speak on his or her behalf. During the negotiation, one can take advantage and add extra charges. Misleading shops usually use an excuse to incur costs whereas the work will remain substandard. Count number information should stay private or driver's license information or any other personal detail that might d fuel consumer fraud. The information should land in the hands of the mechanics after the work is certified satisfactory and no foul play was involved. In short, the repair should require one's signature and a nod from the client and payment should be a separate issue. Finally, yet importantly, the car should be free of personal valuables before the repair. Personal information can expose clients to a danger of frauds and important documents might disappear (Borg, p157).

Conclusion

Some of the common swindles in the automobile repair world revolve around replacing authentic spare parts with fake ones. This is the main reason for getting an order of permit to ensure repair takes place in areas authorized by the client. The client is most likely not to notice the fake form the real spare parts .the switch is likely to cause further damage to the car and leave the vehicle unmanageable. If a client realizes that, he is the victim of automobile fraud they can take up the issue with the authorities the sooner the problem is brought to book, the earlier the action taken against the perpetrators. Most, importantly the case can proceed to court, and one can get compensation for her troubles. Therefore, the bottom is gaining information on areas that can expose on to consumer fraud.

Works cited

Borg, Kevin L. Auto Mechanics: Technology and Expertise in Twentieth-Century America. Baltimore: Johns Hopkins University Press, 2007

Friedrichs, Professor O. S. D. O. O. S. Trusted Criminals - White Collar Crime in Contemporary Society. , 2009. Print.

Kurvinen, Matti, Ilkka Töyrylä, and D N. P. Murthy. Warranty Fraud Management: Reducing Fraud and Other Excess Costs in Warranty and Service Operations. , 2016. Print.

Sales process

The process for MyPA’s will be based on the existing potential in this service industry , with a focus on attracting and retaining customers amidst any competition that may arise in the market. The process will focus on customers, products and the organizational goals that have been set. The process will include:

Understanding the market needs

This involves understanding how the customers desire the services to be offered to them and their ability to pay for them. This will allow the firm to give priority to offering those services that customers are most willing and able to pay for. While customers have various needs for the services offered, their ability to pay will help in providing the assistance services that meets the basic elements of demand; willingness and ability (McDonald & Payne, 2006).

1. Coming up with solutions

After understanding the needs, the assistance services provided through MyPA’s will be tailored to match the specific needs of customers. This may require in out from potential customers on how they want the services to be offered to them so that the services sold meets their customers.

1. Negotiation

 This step involves focusing on discussing with various customers in regard to service features, date the services should be offered, the selling prices any warranties. The agreement reached with customers will be the basis of selling to the various products.

• Closing the sale

This involves the various activities that will ultimately results to an order, and will involve using the right approach and tone during the negotiation process. This will also involve a follow up that is aimed at ensuring that the right contact is maintained. This will ensure that we stay at the front of customers’ mind and hence achieve constant sales. 

References

McDonald, M., & Payne, A. (2006). Marketing plans for service businesses: A complete guide. Oxford: Elsevier Butterworth-Heinemann.

Jon Carder is a business entrepreneur and the founder of Mogl. Mogl is a business program software whose main aim is to eradicate hunger in the United States of America. Members use a debit or a linked card. Moreover, they get 10% of their cash back when they wine or dine in any of the 1000 restaurants registered under the Mogl application program. This interview will be between the founders of Mogl. It will consciously dwell on the background of the idea and all the in-depth details that went into running the business (Mogl, 2018).

 Interviewer: How did you conceptualize your business idea?

John Carder: The idea sprung in my mind during the spring of 2010.I stumbled upon the idea while examining game technology. This game technology allows an individual to play a game while at the same time carry out real-world activities and regulations in the virtual game world. I decided to use the same technology on wine and dining restaurants due to various reasons. First, I love eating and drinking at my favorite restaurant more than a regular person. Also, ‘buy one get three free' programs have existed since time immemorial; they needed a new twist to the concept. I wanted to revolutionize eating at restaurants using this gaming concept. In fact, I Wanted to make restaurant gaming that was not just fan but engaging to the people. No checking or scanning required (Mogl, 2018).

Which are the culture, society, and industrial surroundings you usually operate the business? Mogl is a business that allows consumers to get a discount whenever they are at their favorite restaurant. Therefore, a business can utilize online platforms rather than the conventional way of doing business. A current method is flexible and accommodative enough to its consumers. In fact, the concept has reinvented the manner in which customers earn money back. Through bonuses, incentives, and rewards, consumers connected to the MOGL program can get these rewards. Such a business usually covers a vast area of societies and is not limited or subject to culture or other limitations. At the start stage, MOGL had to isolate a definite aim that it will work with to establish its goals of ensuring a sustainable business. A sustainable business is one, which can thrive globally or even locally in any environment (Mogl, 2018).

How are services and products available at MOGL different from other businesses? MOGL has an established framework that enables it to carry out its operations in a more personalized way and awarding bonuses according to an individuals' value or frequency of purchase. This Methodology makes it unique. This implementation makes it standards out from the rest of the crowd. In addition, the company has been able to ‘gamify' its business giving it a competitive edge over its competitors in the same business area. It has inbuilt a fundraising procedure at various levels of its activity. All groups and firms are included in the fundraising procedures. This means that it covers all demographics across the board. Moreover, it can gather data and at the same time remain technologically relevant to its consumers due to the inclusivity of its fundraising procedures (Mogl, 2018).

What are the risks and challenges involved in the Mogl business? The obvious and one of the chief dangers is the invasion of privacy. Before any one transacts business with MOGL, they must first register with platforms available to them. Additionally, the registration will require one to give crucial personal vital information. The company's privacy policies explain the utilization of the data received from the consumer. After reading the policy, one can decide on whether to release the data or withholding. Signing up is mandatory before one gets the services. How does the firm do risk mitigation? After a customer has signed up, he or she leaves his data such as the names as they appear on the identification card or username, the email and preferred mode of payment that they might prefer to use. After the information is gathered from the consumer, using cookies or bits of information that can be retrieved from a consumer's browser. It is against the company’s policies to store any information. In addition, if the company has refused to take a consumer's cookies, he, or she cannot be accessed all the features on the MOGL platform services (Mogl, 2018).

What are some of the challenges experienced by MOGL? When a new concept comes into the market, it is hard convincing investors to put their capital into the venture. This doubt causes the business to start on a low tide. After the trade picked up, getting loyal consumers that will come back after the experiencing the services is also a challenge. Hence, the company focuses on protecting   the business's reputation, a slight drop in services or doubt can destroy the entire business. In addition, securing a solid base of consumers in the market is no joke Many people are not comfortable giving out their personal information to another a party. Therefore, the Business should curve out an image credibility to the outside market and user .Consequently curving out an image o for itself (Mogl, 2018).

References

Mogl, (2018).retrieved from   https://www.mogl.com/

Non –profit Board of Director’s Fiduciary duties

The board has to establish the appropriate procedures that will ensure that there is fiscal transparency and prudence in the management of the organization.  The board has gain access to the financial reports, ensure there are internal controls and an Audit Committee that these reports. The board should also demand that financial statements are accurate and complete and that the generally accepted principles are followed in their preparation (Weikart, Chen & Sermier, 2013).  The daily financial and accounting tasks must be delegated to individuals with the right skills under the guidance of established policies, so that two or more persons bear the responsibility for the finances.  Such responsibilities include receiving, depositing and the expenditure of the funds. The board should review and then approve the annual budgets and check the revenue and expenses against the approved budget to look into whether the funds are being allocated in the right way (Weikart, Chen & Sermier, 2013).

While determining their compensations, the board should allow independent members to set the rates of executive officers, and makes sure the compensation decisions are based on job performances.  Moreover, there should be an establishment of procedures and policies by the board that guide the managers during the investment of its funds, which will ensure responsibility in the process as per the legal requirements (Weikart, Chen & Sermier, 2013). The policies should also include guidelines on how any returns from the investment activities will be allocated for the intended purposes.  Also, through the policies, the board should determine, review or approve any payment or reimbursement of various expenses that a person carrying out business with the non-profit organization or on its behalf (Tschirhart, & Bielefeld, 2012).

Leadership Team Assignment

The leader's name is Elon Musk, and he is the current CEO of Tesla, a company that manufactures vehicles that are powered by electric energy.   Elon Musk has been in the leadership position for fifteen years since the firm was founded in 2003.   In the firm, he oversees the entire product development process, engineering and the design of the various products including electric cars, solar roofs, and batteries.  Elon Musk has not explicitly undertaken a leadership training program, with most of the formal training on the same being in his undergraduate study in business.  The business training did not focus less on leadership and more on economics, but this was enough to law ground for formal knowledge on leadership. 

Elon Musk describes his personality as more of conscientious and extroverted, which can explain his leadership capacity in a various contexts, given that he oversees three other organizations.  His perception of leadership involves being focused towards a vision and being persistent do as to change the organization. Being a visionary is a basic trait for a leader, since this sets the tone of any organization in terms of motivation and attitude. Being a visionary requires a person to be obsessive of their set goals so that to move away from mediocrity. Musk is very passionate about his roles and responsibilities, so that he devotes every hour he is awake shaping and executing ideas.  The obsession with his set goals involves paying much attention to the smallest details, and very high expectations for products, himself and his team. He has actually been accused of having uncompromising attitudes and at times unreasonable to the point of breaking things apart or criticizing poor performers in his team. Hence, being passionate and obsessive involves having passion for the cause chosen. In addition, Musk views being ethical as an important trait of effective leadership that allows individuals to strive towards excellence through doing what is right and legal. This perception can explain his deep attachment to environmental friendly products such as electric batteries and cars that aligns to the interest of the community and population in which Tesla carries out its operations.  This ensures that the leader can set him apart from others in the same industry.  He believes that managers should lead from the front line but not from their headquarters or offices so that they can be in touch with various problems that employees are undergoing. This also involves putting the safety of their teams above their own interests.

While Musk perceives that some people are born leaders, he attributes his leadership skills to the way he was brought up and the environment in which he grew.  He attributes the adversity he faced as an important aspect in developing his leadership skills. Therefore, a person can become an authentic leader through learning and experience gain while carrying out various roles and responsibilities related to supervision and management. This is especially true at the moments when the person is encountering failures and weakness which helps in building confidence. Also, Elon Musk believes that any person can become a leader regardless of their national origin, gender and as long as they are of the appropriate age.  His experience is a good example since he was born in South Africa and spent much of his childhood years before moving to Canada and then to United States for further studies. However, the journal to becoming a good leader may have challenges such as setbacks and discouragement from the attitude of people closer to the person. These may act as barriers to leadership development if a person is not courageous enough to deal with them. The relationship between Musk and his employees is mostly positive especially enabled by his desire to have their interest at heart. He believes that employees' safety should come before the interest of leaders since they are the driving force behind the success of any organization.  He sees a positive relationship with employees as an important aspect in ensuring that their work performances are high.  Such kind of relationship will only be absent if the employee's performances and actions do not align with the organizational goals so that innovation in the form is not attained.

 Elon Musk views his leadership style as transformative where vision, social skills and creative forms the foundation of this leader.  Musk has a clear vision of a world that is not dependent on fossil fuels and where the maximum use of green energy will enable the conservation of the environment.  His goals are bold and ambitious, and this is an important trait of a transformative leader and especially the one on helping the human to live in a clean environment.  In line with this, Musk believes that leaders display different leadership styles depending on situations because different situational problems call for a different approach to solving them.  While employees should be allowed to work in an environment with positive moods and he views that it is important to have employees not to focus on conventional organizational cultures.

Musk tries to improve his leadership skills through focusing on learning, creativity, and innovation. The leaders maintain a transparent environment with employees by disclosing decisions that are likely to affect their operations. Transparency is important in building trust with team members.  Leaders should focus on employees' development to improve their abilities and personal growth because this will retain them at the firm.  Musk sees himself as the face of Tesla based on the fact that as a physicist, innovation is part of his identity.  On that basis, the leader encourages employees to identify themselves with Tesla because their efforts define the innovative nature of the company.  As a transformative leader, Elon Musk uses his power to influence the attitude of employees since power and persuasion in leadership define the motivation of the employees.  Musk is to an extent a charismatic leader because he perceives his attitude as having a positive impact on employees in Tesla.  However, he views charismatic leadership as not the best if leaders become authoritarian or narcissists.  As a leader, Musk believes he should set an example for employees because this will determine the culture and their working attitudes.  Any goals set by the leader involve the inputs of employees unless where the discussion is not needed. This enables the employees to embrace the goals and be part of the execution process.

One situation that defined Musk leadership style involved an injury to one of the employee. In the situation, the leader called upon such employees to report directly to him. The results were that any possible negative reaction from the employees was averted.  Musk views the biggest problem with employees presently as involving the fact that they are more distinctive and demanding which is seen in their desire to change jobs while looking for growth and satisfaction.  Musk believes that there are some events in life that shape the leaders' character and specifically refers to the adversity and bullying that he encountered as a teenager as having developed him.   His biggest strengths as a leader are work ethics and have been working for hours to accomplish his tasks, and this has improved his ability learn quickly.  He has acknowledged that he experiences problems when setting unrealistic timelines, and expecting all everybody in the firm to share such ethics and vision, and thus he needs to improve on his understanding that people are different.

Elon Musk can improve his leadership methods or skills by motivating others so that they do lose their passions or ambitions.  This involves recognizing and appreciating their inputs in ensuring that the organization achieves the set goals.  Focusing on appreciative leadership will go a long way in motivating the employees and ensuring that their leadership skills are also developed in return (Goetsch & Davis, 2014).  The leader should embark on making the employees know that they belong, their contributions in the form are valued and to know that the organizational success means their personal growth.  Adopting appreciating leadership gives people a sense of direction (Lewis, 2006). The desired innovation, transformation and sustainability in the organization will then be achieved through improved team performance.  Letting people know that they can trust the leader by giving their best is important.

References

Lewis, D., Medland, J., Malone, S., & Murphy, M. (2006). Appreciative leadership: Defining effective leadership methods. Organization Development Journal, 24(1), 87.

Goetsch, D. L., & Davis, S. B. (2014). Quality management for organizational excellence. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson.

Organizational culture and receptivity to change

Organizational culture comprises of various beliefs and valued or basic assumptions that members of an organization share in regard to the right behavior (Abdul Rashid et al. 2004, 163). Organization’s receptivity to change means the shared resolve by members to adopt a given change, their commitment and belief in a collective ability to achieve such implementation (Weiner, 2009, 67). The readiness of the organizational members for the change depends on how much they value it and whether they can favorably appraise the determinants of adoption capability which comprises of resources availed, tasks and situational aspects.  The success of these factors are driven by people’s level of sociability and solidarity since organizations are normally directed by common goals which are achievable in an environment where people are strongly bounded socially. The organization culture can, therefore, facilitate or hinder the change reception depending on whether it allows members to address the dynamic adaptation problems to internal incorporation of resources and policies and external environment that are important in supporting implementation process (Weiner, 2009, 165).

Normally innovation acts as the engine that brings about change and having positive cultural values may provide an organization with the required ingredients for innovation.  In an organizational culture where people pursue shared visions and goals, the relationships must be very strong and this can be a huge driver for success (Kpakol, A., 2014, 20). Organizations cultures that encourage positive attitude towards change will result to a high reception of innovation a major driver for change.  However, organizational members are likely to have less tolerance for change if the culture upholds poor relationships and performance especially among friends (Weiner, 2009, 165).

References

Weiner, B.J., 2009. A theory of organizational readiness for change. Implementation science, 4(1), p.67.

Abdul Rashid, Z., Sambasivan, M. and Abdul Rahman, A., 2004. The influence of organizational culture on attitudes toward organizational change. Leadership & organization development Journal, 25(2), pp.161-179.

Kpakol, A., 2014. Re-Engineering Corporate Culture for Organizational Receptivity to Change. European Journal of Business and Management Vol.6 (29) 20

Business Management

Customers need in the developing markets goes beyond prices to include brands, durability and whether the products match their environment. The environment part refers to the infrastructure available in these countries. These customers are not just simplistic even though their needs can be referred as basic (Anderson & Vandermerwe, 2007).   When customers are buying products such as machinery, they place much consideration on infrastructures such as roads that would enable them to maintain their efficient operating needs.  This means that even if products sell at competitive prices, the customers would prefer machines that offer more reliability and maximum utilization using the available infrastructure.  The needs of customers in the developing markets are influenced by poor infrastructure and vast distances in case of vehicles (Gudlavalleti et al. 2013).  The buying behavior of the customers is informed by features or design of the product that would their specific needs that are unique to their environment.  In developed countries, the nature of customer needs is that they are defined by issues such as loyalty to brands, focus on environmental impact and health of the consumer. These aspects define the needs in the mature markets. The customers look to innovation of the product in comparison with substitutes in the market and are always hopping that their buying decision was right which may cause anxiety (Moschis et al. 1997). This means that customers are more focused in product results after the purchase.

 Firms in the developed countries have to pay enough attention to these differences and obtain the necessary customer insights so that to serve their specific needs.  The companies need to look at every opportunity available to understand these needs. In the emerging markets, firms need to employ improved market research that focuses on the variations in infrastructure, cultures and brand recognition and tailor their offerings to much the needs.   The firms need to look past the conventional pricing strategies and designs employed by competitors and focus on reaching to the specific needs that have been observed in a given country (Gudlavalleti et al. 2013). An important aspect is to know how best products can be differentiated so that they meet the needs of different customers in the developing markets.  In the developed markets, the firms need to pay close attention to the customers concerns relating to after use of the product (Moschis et al. 1997). This involves focusing on customers’ attention to environment, health and after purchase anxiety.

A sole focus on the customizing products may not fully address the needs of customers.  In the developing countries, customers are becoming more informed and their needs are changing with changes in the market environments.  The best strategy should go beyond the design, development and manufacturing of products to meet the needs of customers and instead include anticipating such needs even before the market is aware.  With advancement in information technology, gathering of data and data analysis, it is possible to offer something that surpasses the needs and advices of customers.  Also, clean slate innovation can go a long way in determining the needs of customers (Govindarajan & Trimble, 2012). The reassessment of customer needs means that the development of the products starts from scratch and then reversing how firms approach innovation. The innovation can involve anticipating what customers want and then offerings them products that will meet their needs.

References

Govindarajan, V., & Trimble, C. (2012). Reverse innovation: Create far from home, win everywhere. Harvard Business Press.

Anderson, J., & Vandermerwe, S. (2007). Connecting to Customers in Developing Markets. ESMT Working Paper" 2007, April.

Gudlavalleti, S., Gupta, S., & Narayanan, A. (2013). Developing winning products for emerging markets. McKinsey Quarterly, 2(2013), 98-103.

Moschis, G. P., Lee, E., & Mathur, A. (1997). Targeting the mature market: opportunities and challenges. Journal of Consumer Marketing, 14(4), 282-293.