Bank valuation

1. The management abilities and this involves the various decisions made by the regarding financing and investing. The factor can be controlled by management through making decisions through external forces may be capitalized (Madura, 2014).
2. Risk premium change – a rise in risk premium on banks will result to an increase in the Rate of Return required by investors (Madura, 2014).
3. Interest income refers to income that is gotten from the assets of a bank and is normally influenced by assets composition and market rates that a bank holds. Non-interest income is that income which is obtained from the other operations of a bank but not assets (Madura, 2014). The non-interest income is more important in the long-run since it may not be influenced by the future risks that lower value of interest.
4. To minimize the risks, banks can increase the concentration loans that are relatively risk when economic conditions are good and increase the concentration of low-return risks investments when the economy is not doing well (Madura, 2014).

5.      The Morgan Stanley bank income statement as at 30^th June 2017 shows that the bank had a net income of $ 3, 427 Billion which is a 38 percent change in comparison to a similar period in 2016 (Morgan Stanley, 2017). The bank had a health performance in the recent times. The banks performance was better than other banks like Citigroup, USA with $1.79 trillion as net income and Wells Fargo at $1.93 trillion (Badenhausen, 2017)

6. Bank capital is important because it shows the amount of funds that the firm can lose before the debts it has taken exceeds the available assets (Madura, 2014). The issue is important given that banks have a huge role they play in an economy thorough collection of savings and channeling them to various uses. If not controlled, it can lead to issues such as 2008-2009 crises.
7. Risk on interest rates refers to the risk that the value of banks investment will fluctuate due to changes in two rates spreads, yield curve or another relationship between interest rates (Madura, 2014). Because of the highlighted changes, it may be impossible to avoid the risk.
8. A major failure by the banks in 2008 financial crisis was to ignore risks, which means that the management was not prepared to bear such risks and this lead to the credit crunch.
9. Credit unions refer to financial institutions (Cooperatives) whose major goal is not to make profits like the commercial banks. Their aim is to serve the arising needs of owners who are also members.

References

Madura, J. (2014). Financial markets and Institutions. Thomson/South-Western. Cengage Learning,

Internship Report

Section 1: Working environment

Streamline Healthcare Solutions (Streamline) is a business enterprise which undertakes the activities of delivering web-based software to various healthcare organizations so as to assist in providing as well as coordinating service delivery processes. For decades that have passed, the company has been providing software in a number of behavioral health care marketplaces (Helping organizations improve the quality of patient care: Streamline Healthcare Solutions, 2016). Because of that, the company has managed to establish and sustain systems for a number of premier behavioral health care institutions through the use of the modern web-based technology.

The mission of the company entails empowering people who are ready to offer a helping hand to those who are in need.  All of the clients of the company are ultimately involved in assisting valuable individuals in the community. This is regarded as being the highest ceiling that the company is proud of (Wickramasinghe et al, n.d.). This then implies that the skilled team of the Streamlined Healthcare Solutions works hard day-day-out for the purpose of assisting their esteemed customers to make long-lasting changes to the lives of thousands of people using their web-based technology. 

For example, the martCare^TM  is one of the company’s web-based enterprise applications which are established for the purpose of delivering, managing, and coordinating healthcare services of any type. Due to that, this software has managed to attain 2014 Complete ONC Certification (Ambulatory and Inpatient) hence making it to be deployed and utilized in live environment at any service levels. From the start, this software was developed to be one of the most beneficial and user-friendly app on health care marketplaces. Additionally, this suggest that the main reason that made the company to develop this software was for the purpose of integrating all organization departments so as to make them have a more holistic approaches of offering web-based services to their customers in the health care sector (Wickramasinghe et al, n.d.).

Nevertheless, the aim of the company is to ensure that it has managed to make its users to take time and obtain the necessary information they require whilst using their web-based software without training. Conversely, the management authority of this company has a strong believe that as the human and the health service marketplace continues to change; SmartCare and the need for other software of the company will remain to be flexible. The reason for that there web-based applications are developed with open-architectural frameworks that enables its customers to update as well as built onto them without the need of moving off the main upgrade path (Helping organizations improve the quality of patient care: Streamline Healthcare Solutions, 2016).

Additionally, as much as the company has managed to grow to the extent of enjoying its economies of scale, it should be noted that leadership is something which is relatively open to any kind of suggestion from all employees. For instance, the chief executive officers of this company are customer oriented hence making to truly strive in making unsatisfied customers to be contented with the services the company offers to them. For years that have, the views of the customers indicates that the products that company are one of the company’s best HEL’S in the health care marketplaces for behavioral health.  Accordingly, the company has been offering benefit packages, competitive compensation, and challenging but flexible working environment which more conducive to productivity and collaboration (SmartCare by Streamline Software, 2017).

Currently, the customer-base of the company spans across 18 countries with several sub-branches that consist of about a thousand individual users. As a result of that, this enterprise have managed to develop its web-based software to incorporate all patients -inpatient or outpatient-as well as other community based departments demanding a more holistic health care service approaches. This has made the health care solution offered by the company to be more suited for various health care institutions which desires to develop a sole clinical management system. The reason for desiring such a system is to assist such organizations in mapping and incorporating its day-to-day operating business activities to a single solution and then progress in evolving as business needs emerge (Kros & Brown, 2013).

Section 2: Summary of Log

In the process of working with this company, the main tools used were sophisticated laboratory information (LIS) and middleware systems. Therefore, as the work log below depicts, my duty entailed regression testing of customer web applications as part of our build cycle schedule. In this case, testers are required to test assigned customer web applications to assist them in determining that existing functionality is working per our expected business processes. Likewise, in case such systems were found to be not functioning are required, system testers were required to take the task of identifying any potential causes for concern. Testers will then create tickets in a ticketing system and assign those tasks to developers for correction, and also test any corrections made available by those staff (SmartCare by Streamline Software, 2017).

In Streamline Healthcare Solutions, systems testing are something a large percentage of employees perceive as being a time consuming and tedious activity. The reason for that is because it requires the implementation of new capabilities or software and undertaking reviewing of the testing results collected so as to assist in verifying that such software has managed to meet the business and patient need.

Equally, during the exercise, testers were required to test the workflow and set-up of the company’s web-based software. In a number of working days, upgrading of the laboratory systems was critical. The reason for undertaking that was to ensure that once the systems have been purchased by any health care institution, there are no chances of delay caused by system breakdown. To the management authority, system breakdown is something which is costly and has the potential of negatively impacting its day-to-day health care provision activities (Helping organizations improve the quality of patient care: Streamline Healthcare Solutions, 2016).

As stated, sophisticated laboratory information (LIS) and other middleware systems projects usually demand isolating key personnel form patient care duties so as to perform testing.  Therefore, during the internship period, testers were required to come up with alternative solutions which will make the system to function as required. 

Section 3: Analysis of Work

1. learning of new skills, knowledge, etc

In the modern business world, medical laboratories have been facing a lot of challenges when it comes to the need of maintaining as well improving productivity. As a result of that, sophisticated laboratory information (LIS) and other middleware systems are an example of the tools that the Streamline Healthcare Solutions utilizes in boosting productivity of the health care institutions. As much as the business analyst is concerned, the company has been working more closely with its clients so as to obtain the means of standardizing their needs. Therefore, as a means of learning new skills and knowledge as an employee in this field, it is essential to understand the manner in which such software works in order to enhance their health care services. Similarly, it is essential to have the ability of implementing such applications so as to be in the position of supporting their needs (SmartCare by Streamline Software, 2017).

As a developer of this software in the industry, it is essential to develop web-based programming which is ultimately scrutinized and customized in realizing the needs of the customers as well as building the modules of the software applications. This implies that there is the need of advancing personal career through working and cooperating with health care business organizations which are on the cutting edge of the contemporary behavioral healthcare technology industry. This implies that working with the Streamline HealthCare solutions, the opportunities for improving my skills and knowledge are endless (Helping organizations improve the quality of patient care: Streamline Healthcare Solutions, 2016).

Fortunately, the software testing solutions that an individual will be offering will be a complex suite consisting of automated laboratory software which he or she can utilize in ensuring that the test or test to be done are standard. It is essential to streamline the testing activity so that the team can do well. This is what will make the health care professional to offer excellent and improved patient care. On the other hand, the general use of new web-based software cab proves to be intimidating. As a result of that, it better to take into consideration customer implementations so as to assist in creating processes which are painless, hard, and faster (Moss, 2009). Accordingly, in order to ascertain that automated testing and functioning of this technology is guaranteed, scenarios, taste cases, and other profiles should be considered in aligning the system. This is ultimately the main duties of technical experts in this field when it comes to supporting the clinical team of any medical institution (SmartCare by Streamline Software, 2017).

(b) Long range career objectives of the student

In working with the Streamline HealthCare Solutions, the career objective an intern can have entails seeking for newer areas that can suite my objectives. One of my objectives I learned from this organization entails providing and sustaining a working environment which has the potential of growing as well as evolving with time. The reason for that is because it offers an opportunity of advancing and developing may career hence creating a pathway to success (Manimala & Thomas, 2017).

In addition to the team I was working with, my career objective entails working closely with senor level system analysts, business analysts, and other web-based developers in creating products and services which are customized in meeting the wants and needs of the clients. At this level, I am confident that I will gain knowledge, refine my skill sets, as well as obtain and experience whilst working first hand with the customers and the existing technology. In other words, I will be providing feedback and support to all members regardless of their job position while being involved at the center of software development and innovation at the Streamline Healthcare Solutions (Moss, 2009).

Other than that, there is the need of seeking those members with exceptional skills who are willing and ready to continue learning and growing my career. The reason for that is because customers are regarded as being the heart of any operations that takes place in the organization. Therefore, flexibility, results, and individual attitude is what will instill all that. Consequently, the capacity of executing any task assigned to as a team, prioritizing tasks, being self-directed, and undertaking any task assigned to makes the firm to realize the group and company goals. This means that problem-solving, proper time management, paying attention to information provided will remain to be important in fostering my career objectives in this organization or any other that I may be working at (Laverick, 2016).

Pathways to success

As a business analyst the pathway to success in my career will entails working closely with customers, getting acquainted in understanding the need of the clients as well as conceptualizing the manner in which they desire the web-base software to work for them.   Similarly, there is the need of understanding the manner in which system developer assist in implementing web-based applications so as to provide efficient support to the customers (Manimala & Thomas, 2017).

Nonetheless, in order to enrich my pathway career, it is important to collaborate with other project management professionals in increasing the profitability of the available products whilst developing modernized ones. This has the potential of building newer ideas in bring the health care marketplace closer in understanding the modern impacts of this software (Frederick & Mary, 2013).

This then implies that it is the skilled team of a business organization which is compelled to work hard day-day-out for the purpose of assisting their esteemed customers to make long-lasting changes to the lives of thousands of people using their web-based technology.  Nevertheless, the aim of any business organization is to ensure that it has managed to make its users to take time as well as obtain the necessary and detailed information they require whilst using their web-based software in improving their operations (Moss, 2009).

Moreover, as much as any company has the potential of growing to the extent of enjoying its economies of scale as in the case of Streamline Healthcare Solutions, it should be noted that being proactive is way of becoming relatively open to any kind of suggestion that the employees can come up with. Therefore, as a means of learning new skills and knowledge, it is essential to aware on the manner in which business software and other operations works in order to improve the services they offer to the customers (Laverick, 2016). This implies that there is the need of advancing one’s skill through working and cooperating with health care business organizations which are on the cutting edge of the contemporary technology world.

On the same note, it is essential to streamline the operational activities any team member is assigned to so to increase the output of the firm. This is because such a strategy makes the software professional to offer excellent and improved web-based services. Another reason is that an individual’s career objective in this field entails creating products and services to meet the modern wants and needs of the clients (Laverick, 2016). The reason for that is because it offers an opportunity of advancing and developing may career hence creating a pathway to success. The reason for that is because customers are the heart of any operations that takes place in the organization (Manimala & Thomas, 2017). Lastly, as a software developer, it is important to ensure that that I have dedicated time in collaborating with other developer in creating web-based programs which are customized to the clients’ requirements so as to enhance the building of modules which are applicable to various health care organizations.

1. c) Prospect of future job search or marketability (i.e. interviewing, testing, etc. for the pre-employment process.)

In any business organization, pre-employment processes is mainly used for the purpose of screening job applicants as well as including testing of knowledge, motor and physical abilities, knowledge, cognitive capabilities, emotional intelligence, integrity, personality, and language proficiency. As much as future job search or marketing is concerned, it is essential to take into account the impacts of this exercise while marketing myself in the job market. Although it results to inducing extra benefits in any organization, time cost saving during the selection process, improving morale, and decreasing turnover are some of the factors to take into account when being employed (Laverick, 2016).

Moreover, skill testing in this field will mainly encompass various tests which are designed for the purpose of determining whether the candidate or the job-seeker has the required strength, aptitude, and other physical abilities to execute a certain work. As compared with other techniques used in pre-employment testing, it is crucial for the employer to ensure that all the testing procedures to be used have been applied in a discriminatory fashion (Moss, 2009).

Although dramatic advantages obtained from the selection criteria is important, there are various issue that need to be taken into consideration before formulating and implementing such tests. Validity is one of these issues. Despite the fact that it has the ability of measuring the specific mechanism used, it assists in measuring and predicting future success or job performances. As an employer, it is important to show that all those who manage to do well during the exercise have the potential of performing better in their work as compared to those who doesn’t (Frederick & Mary, 2013).

Furthermore, in using pre-employment assessments to assist in screening and selecting better candidates for work, it is important to do it without any discrimination. This is to imply that such tests should not cause any kind of disparate impacts to the protected groups or minorities.

As noted from above, suppleness, results, and individual approaches are what will instill the growth of one’s career in any business environment. Consequently, the impacts of executing any task assigned to as a team, prioritizing them, being self-directed, and undertaking any task assigned to needs to be taken into consideration (Pamela, 2015). The reason behind that is because it acts as an avenue of making the company to realize goals of its establishment. .

Section 4: Summary of Experience

Provide a general appraisal of the experience in terms of (a) quality of the experience (b) quality of supervision and (c) quality of training provided, etc.

As far as improving the quality of experience a person has in this level, it is easy to gain knowledge, refine skill sets, as well as obtain and experience whilst working first hand with the customers and the existing technology. Other than that, there is the need of seeking those members with exceptional skills who are willing and ready to continue learning and growing my career. The reason for that is because customers are regarded as being the heart of any operations that takes place in the organization. Therefore, flexibility, results, and individual attitude is what will instill all that (Moss, 2009). Accordingly, the capacity of executing any task assigned to as a team, prioritizing tasks, being self-directed, and undertaking any task assigned to makes the firm to realize the group and company goals.

Nonetheless, the quality of supervision that is needed in any field is concerned; there is need of more working closely with all the stakeholder of any organization to be employed in. conversely, there is the need of getting acquainted when it comes to understanding and acknowledging the need of the clients. This has the potential of making an employee to conceptualize the manner in which they desire the various web-base software or services provided to work for them.   Similarly, there is the need of understanding the manner in which system developer assist in implementing web-based applications so as to provide efficient support to the customers.

Additionally, in improving the one’s skills it is imperative relate with other software developers who are already in the industry. In the process of enriching one’s pathway career, it is important to collaborate with other project management professionals in this field so as increase the profitability of the available products and services whilst developing modernized ones (Pamela, 2015). The impact of this is that it is easier to build newer ideas in bring the modern health care marketplace closer in understanding the impacts of such software.

Lastly, as software developer in this field, it is important to ensure that enough time have been dedicated in collaborating with other soft-ware developer in coming web-based programs which are customized to meet the needs of the clients’ requirements. The reason for considering that is because it offers a strong opportunity for building of new and improved modules which are applicable to various health care organizations.

In developing one’s career at Streamline Healthcare Solutions, the company offers an opportunity of growing as well as continuing to learn in various departments in which personal contribution is recognized and valued highly. Thus, deciding to work with this company is worth because it is one of the companies which are on the cutting edge as far as the web-based technology industries are concerned. Equally, the company keeps on striving to build trusting and long-lasting relationship with its employees and esteemed customers set a bar (Frederick & Mary, 2013).

5. Section: Recommendation

When it comes to working in business organization such as Streamline Healthcare Solutions (Streamline) it is important to take the opportunity of learning transferable skills and knowledge which are applicable to any real life experiences. This is advantages because it enables a person to enhance his or her credentials.

Similarly, as an interns it important to ensure that he or she has worked more closely with software developers, systems analysts, and business analysts so as to enable him or her to achieve the set objectives of their company as a team (Pamela, 2015).

It imperative to dedicate time in developing qualities which will make a person to be a influential asset in the modern workforce through obtaining valuable  professional experiences at work. This is essential to ensure that in the process of working with all members of the organization, it encouraging to ensure that you are exposed to various business processes that are undertaken in that organization on daily basis (Frederick & Mary, 2013).

In any business organization, always the management authority is concerned with those individuals who are energetic, creative, self-directed, motivated, creative, strong communicator, and detail oriented. Because of that, for any person who already to work and excel in this field, it is imperative to learn more and more, be ready to do any kind of task assigned to so as to assist in contributing towards the growth of the company  (Pamela, 2015).

It is important to understand the need of collaborating with marketing analytics team in enabling the management authority in implementing data-driven culture. This is essential because it enable the organization to have the capacity of improving and understanding the needs of their customers.   For instance, in collaborating with marketing and other internal electronic commerce stakeholders is a way of seeking opportunities that have the potential of increasing the efficiency of the company’s marketing activities (Frederick & Mary, 2013).

Time should be dedicated in finding detailed information which will enable the management authority to create better job recommendations using verbal and written communication. In connection to this, it is important to take the opportunity of supporting the examination of the ongoing analytics so as to offer insights requires by the company’s stakeholders. In so doing, take note of establishing and maintaining valuable relationships with coworkers regardless of their job positions.

6. Section: References
7. Section: Comparison of responsibilities

Job Title: Associate Analyst, eCommerce

Position Type: Full Time

Job Overview:

The responsibilities of the Associate Analyst, eCommerce involves analyzing support stat as well as other insights which are based on reporting the mechanisms to be used in improving decision-making. This in return has the capacity of boosting efficient business outcomes in this field. Furthermore, in this company, analysts are required to collaborate with other stakeholders in the same field and other key or influential departments so as to assist in identifying information-driven approaches so as to find other areas of opportunities.

Key Areas of Responsibility

Database querying, utilizing Adobe analysts, manipulation of data as well as undertaking statistical analysis so as to offer valuable business support related to electron commerce, particularly product teams.

To assist in implementing reporting in any kind of automated intelligence environments so as to enable better integration of information.

Supporting the leveraging of marketing channels, as well as, other advanced client analytics which aid in assessing and making strategic recommendations which improves business performances.

To assist in manipulating information contained in SQL/SAS/Hadoop environments so as to aid in creating actionable knowledge to organization objectives.

To accurately differentiate all the contributing marketing information so as to enable the management authority to make sound evaluation of various campaign analytics.  

Supervisor's Letter of Satisfaction

Dr. Bernard T Han

Department of Business Information Systems

Haworth College of Business

Western Michigan University

Kalamazoo, MI 49008-5412

Phone: (269) 387-5428

Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

The above named person has ability and enthusiasm as always impressed me since he was hired one year ago as an intern in the company as a wed based program tester engineer. It is my wish to endorse Necks for the web software tester position at your organization. He began working for streamline health care solutions two years ago while in senior in high school. During his tenure, I have observed his potential growing as a vibrant, capable, and confident professional in the web technology sector.

Nevertheless, he tackled his work with great determination valuing his duty a lee way for success. Her positive and demeanor attitude inspires her friends and other employees hence motivating them to work hard. Considering academic accomplishments are outstanding, however his professional expertise is what distinguish him from the rest of interns. I was convinced by marvelous recommendations that I received from teachers to hire him. At first, I assigned him with tasks such as messaging, running errand within the organization as well as answering phone calls. As time passed by I realized that he has more potential in excelling in other fields hence decided to adjust his responsibilities.

Moreover, he is excellent in delivering results in tasks assigned in the information technology department. Web hosting, web design, as well as other web related assignments are duties that he tackles without doubt.  He has the potential of completing his task in a timely manner and reports to the immediate bosses in time. His efficiency has been proved through various scrutinizes that have been conducted during his tenure hence qualifying him as a reliable person. He is proactive and has a positive attitude toward attaining the company’s goal. Equally, he used unoccupied workday to reorganize office files. He also developed a customer satisfaction program that attracted more customers hence leading to high profitability. I am thrilled to say that necks initiative led to the utmost customer satisfaction score in the company history. Apart from having superior verbal and written communication skills, neck was an active participant in client presentation activities. I am confident that he will be a valuable asset to your firm considering his outstanding ability in the web design department. It will be my honor to respond to any issues regarding him.

Daily Work log

References

Frederick, H. S & Mary, A. K. (2013). The Successful Internship. Cengage Learning Press

Helping organizations improve the quality of patient care: Streamline Healthcare Solutions. (2016). The Silicon Review. Retrieved 4 December 2017, from http://thesiliconreview.com/magazines/helping-organizations-improve-the-quality-of-patient-care-streamline-healthcare-solutions/

Kros, J. F., & Brown, E. (2013). Health care operations and supply chain management: Strategy, operations, planning, and control. San Francisco, Calif: Jossey-Bass.

Laverick, D. A. M. (2016). Mentoring Processes in Higher Education. Cham: Springer International Publishing.

Manimala, M. J., & Thomas, P. (2017). Entrepreneurship Education: Experiments with Curriculum, Pedagogy and Target Groups.

Moss, A. D. (2009). Learn to intern CEO style: 71 leadership principles that got me and now you money, a free graduate degree, and respect!.

Pamela, M. K. (2015). The Human Services Internship: Getting the Most from Your Experience. Cengage Learning Press

Plunkett, Jack W. (2008). Plunkett's Telecommunications Industry Almanac 2009. Plunkett Research Ltd.

SmartCare by Streamline Software. (2017). Software device. Retrieved 4 December 2017, from https://www.softwareadvice.com/medical/streamline-smartcare-profile/

Wickramasinghe, N., Al-Hakim, L., Gonzalez, C., & Tan, J. (n.d.). Lean Thinking for Healthcare [recurso electrónico].

Inequality in US labor markets

Introduction

Inequality in labor markets in United States can be determined through some measures including income level, gender and racial gaps. The inequality in labor marker may be explained from an economic narrative that is efficiency driven and involves a relationship between demand and supply of people’s skills. A social drive explanation of this inequality is where norms stereotypes determine the various actions in labor market. Despite the efficiency driven explanation being appealing, the social driven description gives better reason for the increased case of inequality in the labor market. The inequality in the labor markets is therefore, avoidable given that the causes can be addressed and corrected.

Causes of inequality

High levels of education may boost or reduce income inequality and this depends on where the increase occurs on the education ladder and quality of education the population was given at the beginning. Investing in human capital by encouraging more people to pursue tertiary education may have an ambiguous effect on wage inequality. While the investments can broaden the income dispersion through increment of high-income earners share, the direct impacts in the problem can be worsen by a reduction in relative wags of highly-educated workers (Hurst et al. 2016).

 The available of cheap labor in countries like china, exchange rates that are unfair and outsourcing of is a major cause of income inequality. In order for firms to remain competitive in the global market, they focus on profits at the expense of workers welfare. The companies in US have to compete with Indian and Chinese firms who can offer lower-priced products since workers wages are much less. The US forms outsource manufacturing and high-tech jobs overseas which has made to lose 20 % of higher-paying jobs. Even though service jobs have been increasing, they pay much lower. Reengineering by the firms leaves less number of permanent employees as attention turn to temporary and contract workers (Card, 2009).

Unionization of workers can also offer an explanation on the increasing level of wage inequality in United States. While declining in union members in the country can lead to more inequality, higher union membership can also lead to the same. The role of labor unions has been to ensure that wages for lower level and middle level workers are improved. An increase in union membership has in past lead to increase in wages among the members. When labor markets, personal and job characteristics are controlled, union workers earn better than nonunionized workers (Rios‐Avila & Hirsch, 2014). Wage premium is also higher among the unionized workers than the others. In addition, the unions also ensure that the number of female workers is fair in the labor market and hence, addressing gender inequality.  With decline in labor unions and unionized workers, negotiations on better benefits and wages decreases which increase the level of inequality in the market. Labor unions are also able to enter into profit share agreements with firms so that wages are increased in line with increment with workers productivity. In absence of such representations, the level of income inequality continues to increase in the labor markets. In addition, where the increase in labor membership does not lead to broader dispersion of wages, income and better gender inclusion, it raises the level of inequality in the labor markets (Rios‐Avila & Hirsch, 2014).

Immigration is another issue affecting the level of inequality in United States. There are many illegal immigrants in the country and such people have less power to bargain for higher labor income. These workers provide their labor in lowly paid service positions. These workers are paid much less in comparison with the native counterparts even where they have similar education levels (Card, 2009). The gap in the payment could be a reflection of employer’s difficulties while trying to have a proper assessment of their immigrants qualification obtained in foreign markets. There is also the possibility that the immigrants lack adequate skills due to their educational environment providing lower quality and have no work experience in host market. The lack of skills, knowledge of language and discrimination mean that they are paid lowly in comparison with natives (Card, 2009). The gap stops being significant   ones the foreigners acquires similar education level with the natives. The investment in such a workforce may not be sufficient in providing required skills and even language courses that would help them bargain for a better pay in the market (Card, 2009). A firm like Wal-Mart, the largest employer in US , has been reducing benefits and pay for its workforce which can be related to availability of a population that is willing to work for less. However, the supervisors and managers compensation and benefits remain quite higher when compared to the junior workers.

Conclusion

 The issue of income inequality is best addressed through social perspective since the major causes involve education level, labor unions, and immigration and gender differences. These issues are not unavoidable given that they can be addressed in order to achieve equality in labor markets. The more these issues persist, the more inequality will continue increasing in US labor markets.

References

Rios‐Avila, F., & Hirsch, B. T. (2014). Unions, wage gaps, and wage dispersion: New evidence from the Americas. Industrial Relations: A Journal of Economy and Society, 53(1), 1-27.

               David, H. (2014). Skills, education, and the rise of earnings inequality among the" other 99 percent".

            Card, D. (2009). Immigration and inequality (No. w14683). National Bureau of Economic Research.

             Hurst, C. E., Gibbon, H. M. F., & Nurse, A. M. (2016). Social inequality: Forms, causes, and consequences. Routledge. 258-261

                         Employee Satisfaction in Health Management
    This paper will be focusing on health management with the objective of ensuring proper health care provided to patients to ensure their satisfaction. There are various aspects of health management such as committing to excellence, measuring the crucial things, building a culture around service delivery, creating and enhancing leaders, employee’s satisfaction, developing individual accountability, and aligning behaviors with goals and values of an institution. The paper will focus on one aspect which is the employee satisfaction. This element is vital in health management since it is from the employees being satisfied that results to better healthcare provision and the ultimate fulfillment of the patients. Moreover, it will emphasize on what employees seek from their leaders to ensure better service delivery. The paper will look into the issue of rounding for outcomes in the process of securing the satisfaction of both the employees and the patients.

First, the principle of committing to excellence is where the health workers feel treasured and the patients are provided with the best health care thus achieving satisfaction for both (Wong and Giollonardo, 2013). Secondly, they suggested that the principle of measuring the important things is where leaders look into the facts in the work place critically and then making the best adjustment to improve service delivery. Thirdly, Wong and Giollonardo implied that the managers should build a culture around service where they ensure that they focus in bettering health care provision by the health practitioners. In addition, they recommended that leaders should always have the intent of empowering the workers so that they can also be leaders in the future. As well, they stated that the health leaders should create a culture of individual accountability so as to promote a sense of ownership and inspiration among the employees.
    Employee satisfaction is one of the critical aspects of health management in making sure that the primary objective of providing the best and satisfying health care to the patients is achieved (McSherry, Pearce, Grimwood, and McSherry, 2012). To them, it is vital for health administrators to ensure that every employee is satisfied in the workplace for this guarantees better healthcare provision. Employees should be provided with the right conditions to have confidence in their organization. Healthcare facilities should aim at service delivery to the patients and motivate workers because they are valued at the organization. By doing this, the employees dedicate all their efforts to providing better service delivery (Wong and Laschinger, 2013). Wong and Laschinger affirmed that an employee understanding the purpose of the institution enables them to be focused towards achieving the goals of the healthcare facility.
    Wong and Laschinger (2013) explained that employees want to be made aware of services they offer are valuable to guarantee patient satisfaction. Health managers always appreciate the efforts that the employees put in their service delivery, so as to motivate them towards working hard and achieving the overall goal of better healthcare provision (Bello, 2012). Bello suggested that as long as the workers are responsible and professional in their work, they should always be given the freedom without being micromanaged. In so doing, the nurses become responsible, hence bettering their services which eventually leads the provision of high quality services to the patient satisfaction, which is the major goal of most health institution.

    McSherry, Pearce, Grimwood, and McSherry (2012) acknowledged that there are various things that employees look for in their managers in the process of being satisfied with what they do. First, they implied that employees are always expecting their leaders to work side by side with them. Having the backing of their managers lead to their satisfaction since they are confident that they are doing the right things in the work place.  The confidence translates to patients’ satisfaction since they are provided with the best healthcare (Atefi, Abdullah, Wong, and Mazlom, 2014). Secondly, they stated that for employees to be gratified while doing their duties, it is essential for the managers to  provide them with the necessary training that will enable them to deliver their services efficiently and meet the patients’ requirements.
    Thirdly, the employees expect that the leaders should provide them with efficient systems and tools to do their job well. By doing this, the staff are satisfied and comfortable with their work as they can utilize their knowledge well when provided with the necessary resources (Brunetto, Teo, Shacklock, and Farr-Wharton, 2012). They implied that the patients are always satisfied with the services given to them because the systems are efficient in providing the best healthcare. Furthermore, Bello (2012) argued that workers expect their leaders to be approachable and to always appreciate their efforts so that they can be content in the work environment. This makes it easier for the workforce to discuss issues that may be affecting their service delivery and thus the leaders can address the issue at hand and work towards ensuring that the employees are satisfied.

In order for managers to foster employee-patient satisfaction, they should be able to follow up and have an understanding of the challenges which the nurses face while at work. After that, they should come up with new strategies, which will be responsible for allowing the nurses to work at ease, hence providing the best services to the patients (Morton, Brekhus, Reynolds, and Dykes, 2014). To the employees, leaders must always inquire if the employees have the required equipment to carry out their duties. Having the right equipment not only enhances service delivery but also customer satisfaction. In addition, they need to come up with problem solving solutions, which would be necessary for advocating for and dealing with any challenges which the nurses might face while at work. Furthermore, in order for te health institution to become a magnet institution, managers need also motivate, encourage and reward the nurses for their work. Asking question, in areas where nurses may not be conversant with is also a good way of enabling the nurses to focus and work hard hence being able to avoid any obstacles which may come their way. This consequently improves the relationship between the employees and their leaders, making them to feel at ease while working, and to also feel appreciated. Also, it allows the nurses to feel free and to also enjoy doing their work, which leads to patient satisfaction and reduced mortality rates in the health institution, due to the quality of services which is responsible for enabling patients to live longer.

Finally, health management is a significant factor in improving and ensuring the quality of services offered by a healthcare institution. In order for the employees to offer their best services, different forms of motivating them must be included of used by the healthcare managers, thus allowing them to do their work happily (Morton, Brekhus, Reynolds, and Dykes, 2014). Nurses and other health workers require a peace of mind, in order to work at ease, hence it is necessary for the managers to maintain a close working relationship with them. Additional, the working staff at the healthcare institution should be free with their leaders, thus allowing them to easily ask questions and to also come up with new ideas and recommendations concerning different issues. Likewise, the working staff should also be provided with the necessary resources which they require, in order to do their work well. Motivation, encouragement, and being concerned with the general performance of the institution should be the main objective of the healthcare managers, thus leading to the provision of high quality services to the patients.              

Appendix
Questionnaire
    I prepared a written questionnaire which I administered to Jane Smith who is the volunteer coordinator at Kaiser Permanente. She answered it through a written form and was able to obtain the following information from her answers.
1.    What do you really love about your job?
The thing that I really love about my job is having to work with fresh talents after every six months given that the volunteering period is limited to only six months and giving others space for them to volunteer as well. Moreover, I love it that I am tasked to recruiting the volunteers and that enables me to create a good relationship with them as earlier as possible.
2.    What part of your responsibilities keeps you up at night?
Sometimes I stay up late into the night especially when there is a new team of volunteers since I have to make sure that they adapt to the organization as fast as possible. Given that the organization operates even at night, I have to be there to oversee their earlier stages of adapting to the organization. Moreover, during the recruiting period, I have to stay awake even at night while scrutinizing the paperwork of the volunteers.
3.    If you would change one thing about your job, what would it be?
I love my job and would not wish for many changes to be made. I would only seek a chance for the number of volunteers to be raised to around ten from the current five given that their service delivery is always appreciated by the customers.
4.    What makes your job worthwhile, meaningful, and purposeful?
I find my job valuable given that I always act as an inspiration to the volunteers and they always appreciate the role I play in making them better. Moreover, my work is very meaningful since the organization always recommends the work I do in recruiting and mentoring volunteers. Also, it is purposeful since I ensure that I have the best team that is excellent in their service delivery.
5.    Describe your hiring approach for volunteers. How and where do you find talented applicants?
My main approach when hiring volunteers is always conducting interviews which helps me to gauge the applicants well based on how they express themselves and how passionate they are about volunteering. It is how they express themselves and what is in their curriculum vitae that enable me to identify the best talents among the applicants.
6.    In your experience, what is the most efficient way to resolve employee and upper-level management conflicts?
Based on my experience, the most effective way to solve conflicts between the employee and the upper-level management is to ensure that there is constant communication between them and each of them is aware of their responsibilities.

References

Atefi, N., Abdullah, K., Wong, L., & Mazlom, R. (2014). Factors influencing registered nurses perception of their overall job satisfaction: a qualitative study. International Nursing Review, 61(3), 352-360.

Bello, S. M. (2012). Impact of Ethical Leadership on Employee Job Performance. International Journal of Business and Social Science, 3(11), 228-236.
Brunetto, Y., Teo, S. T., Shacklock, K., & Farr-Wharton, R. (2012). Emotional intelligence, job satisfaction, well-being, and engagement: explaining organizational commitment and turnover intentions in policing. Human Resource Management Journal, 22(4), 428-441.

Manss, G. (2017). Implementation of Daily Senior Leader Rounds Using a Transformational Leadership Approach. Nurse Leader, 15(1), 65-69.

Mcsherry, R., Pearce, P., Grimwood, K., &Mcsherry, W. (2012). The pivotal role of nurse managers, leaders, and educators in enabling excellence in nursing care. Journal of Nursing Management, 20(1), 7-19.

Morton, J., Brekhus, J., Reynolds, M., & Dykes, A. K. (2014). Improving the patient experience through nurse leader rounds. Patience Experience Journal, 1(2), 53-61.

Ulanimo, V. M., & Ligotti, N. (2011). Patient Satisfaction and Patient Safety: Outcomes of Purposeful Rounding. Topics in Patients Safety, 11(4), 1-4.

Vermeulen, H., & Van Oostveen, C. (2016). Workplace empowerment and nurses’ job satisfaction. NederlandsTijdschriftvoor Evidence Based Practice, 14(1), 13-14.

Wong, C. A., & Laschinger, H. K. (2012). Authentic leadership, performance, and job satisfaction: the mediating role of empowerment. Journal of Advanced Nursing, 69(4), 947-959.

Wong, C. A., & M. Giallonardo, L. (2013). Authentic leadership and nurse-assessed adverse patient outcomes. Journal of Nursing Management, 21(5), 740-752.

Water Consumption - Footprint Reflection

Introduction

The purpose of this paper is to reflect on water consumption at a personal level. The paper involves a synopsis of a calculation of average water consumption against the US average and a discussion of the results. The discussion includes activities that I would take in order to reduce personal water consumption. A conclusion highlights the various ideas gathered from this exercise.

Synopsis

My average water consumption per day is 416 gallon for all the uses. In the calculation of average daily water consumption various factors and activities were included  where water is used regularly. Most of these activities are carried out at home during the performance of normal chores and includes showering, bathtub, bathroom and kitchen sink, toilet, washing dishes and doing laundry.  The other factors considered in the calculation do not directly related to individual activities and include electricity consumption and shopping. The use of recycled paper and plastics were considered in determining the daily average water consumption. My average consumption compared favorably with the entire US average given that among the various factors and activities considered the daily average was way below the overall national average. In addition, among many of the areas with a large national average, I was able to significantly reduce the level of water consumption. Such areas includes toilet use, laundry and in shopping. However, in some areas, my daily water consumption went above the US average especially in showering and cleaning the dishes. The water consumption related to electricity was higher than the US average which can be related to the high power utility in our state. This leaves no room for adjusting or reducing the consumption of virtual water and hence, the higher rate than the US average. In addition, there are areas in which I do not consume any outdoor and virtual water including swimming pool, law and garden, driving and car washing. This means that my overall water consumption per day remains way below the overall average despite higher consumption in some areas.

Discussion

The resulting water consumption level does not come as a surprise given that the areas where water is consumed in large quantity related household activities. The largest amount of water used in household involves toilet flushing, showing and washing dishes. These areas requires large amount of water to be fully done since they are done on daily basis or even a number of times a day. The water consumption during flushing toilet, for instance, was expected to be low since during the day I am rarely at home. In addition, the current toilets and shower heads use lesser amount of water than before.  It was also expected that virtual water consumption would be higher than other areas given that large amount of water is used in producing, processing and manufacturing of various products bought.  Studies have shown that in present time people all over the world consume large amount of virtual water through products from domestic and foreign market. In this case water is expended in industries for production of various goods.  Behind the various food products bought by consumers are large amount of water used in growing, producing, packaging and even transporting them (Orlowsky et al.2014). This is the reason why much of the water I consumed involved virtual water from shopping of various foods stuffs and other products produced in different industries, in local and international markets.  

In order to reduce the amount of water I personally use, I would be willing to take steps towards water conservation. Water conservation is important is important since it helps in reserving a resource that is precious and even lowering the utility bill.  The conservation of water involves ensuring that various laws relating to toilets, showers and water faucets and which aim at allowing a given quantity of water flows each minute are observed (Wolters 2014). The residential homes should include aspects that will ensure that these laws are adhered to and rectifying where there is any shortcoming. The efforts require small changes that will add up to many gallons  of water saved every day and will add up to large amount by year end. These activities include: using shower bucket rather than allowing water to go down the drain, where a bucket is stuck nude a facet while the heating up of the shower water; while brushing teeth, turning off the tap will prevent all the water coming out of the facet to go down the drain; turning of the water tap while washing the dishes or even while washing hands and the small amount of water saved will count at the end; reusing the water for various purposes before letting it down the drain will ensure that there is water reduction in households.

Conclusion

Individual water consumption can be reduced in order to conserve this important resource. Comparing individual daily rate of water consumption with the national average will help in identifying areas where water is being wasted. Through such information, one can take actions or activities that will ensure that waters usage is reduced substantially. The little efforts lead to reduce will lead to conservation of large amount of water at the end of the day.

Reference

Orlowsky, B., Hoekstra, A. Y., Gudmundsson, L., & Seneviratne, S. I. 2014. Todayʼs virtual water consumption and trade under future water scarcity. Environmental research letters, 9.1-10

Wolters, E. A. 2014. Attitude–behavior consistency in household water consumption. The Social Science Journal, 51. 1-463.

 Using Swot Analysis for Strategic Planning

The swot analysis is a good tool for strategic planning as it reviews the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats. It brings out important factors and addresses them in an elaborate and inclusive manner. When facts are tabled, it becomes easier to initiate policies and decisions that can impact and solve economic issues that have been ailing the strategic planning and derailing benefits. Swot analysis gives basic materials that can be manipulated to suit any form of strategy. This will correct mistakes that may recur in future. Swot analysis reveals a true picture of the enterprise and its internal and external environmental challenges.

In order to come up with an effective strategy, the situation of Kfc should be analyzed by the Swot analysis. Swot will analyze both the external factors and internal factors and it will also include an evaluation on competitors which is the intended purpose of swot analysis (Keillor & Wilkinson, 2011).

The first step of swot analysis looks into the enterprise present enterprise activities and lists down both the limitations and the capabilities of the enterprise. It is the most important section as most crucial issues arise within the strength and weakness section .In order to study the strengths and weaknesses of an enterprise, the top management must be engaged in an open and free conversation. This dialogue will help to correctly identify weaknesses and strengths. If this is not possible, management can be listed as part of the weakness and they can be studied and necessary measures taken against them (Keillor & Wilkinson, 2011).

The Swot analysis is a good strategic plan in an area that is competitive because it allows one to plan in line with strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats in relation to other competitors. A Swot analysis gives an all dimensional perspective of the current and future economic situations that is in line with my job. (Olsen, 2013).

The strengths will permit Kfc to re-evaluate its advantages in the market sector. These advantages will form the basis of the company’s activities and strategic outline. The advantages are usually in line with the manner in which Kfc advertises itself. For example, Kfc has a very effective distributing network and good trading abilities with its suppliers, as strengths, therefore it can translate that strength to affordable costs for its consumers. Knowing strengths can be used to regulate weaknesses (Olsen, 2013).

After analyzing and knowing the strengths of Kfc, here is a great insight in knowing ones weaknesses. There are two approaches of correcting weaknesses. First they can be corrected if they hinder Kfc from achieving its objectives and strategy .Or, they can be corrected by altering the entire corporation if the business set up is responsible for the weakness. In my case, anything that will hinder kfc’s ability to achieve its vision statement is a weakness. For example, unreliable services from suppliers, old machineries and inadequate marketing efforts among the rest. Some elements that can be used to find weaknesses are: customers, prices and branding (Olsen, 2013).

Opportunities are critical if the corporation is to grow as it assists the corporation define methods through which it can progress. Constantly studying the market opportunities assists Kfc to grab any chance it gets in an upcoming market. Opportunities should be constantly assessed so as to give an overall upper hand over other competitive brands in the fast food industry. Through opportunities Kfc is able to raise new businesses, improve on its market shares and get access to new avenues of capital. Since opportunities are external factors, objectives should be clearly outlined to help in fishing out the opportunity. The emphasis should be on external factors that affect Kfc and what can be done to control the factors. External factors that cannot be controlled should be put under the PEST analysis that is political, economy, society and technology. What foods and services can we offer that can put us above the competition? Is there any new competitor in the food industry market? Are there other alternatives? These are some of the questions that one can use to discover new opportunities. The only intention of an opportunity is to move the company forward. It is also advisable to get outside assistance in area that are l not familiar. The opportunities found in the market should be ranked in terms their economic viability and their economic impact on the enterprise. (Olsen, 2013).

Analyzing threats will enable Kfc to protect itself from internal and external threats. Examples of threats are regulations, environment, emerging trends and technology. Taking a keen interest in uncontrollable external factors and controllable factors that have an influence on our fast food market is the most realistic approach of analyzing threats. Threats should be defined as any conditions in the market that can prevent attaining Kfc vision and mission now or in the future .Threats include competitive barriers and any alterations in the environment’s regulations. Some of the guidelines the team is supposed to use to identify threats are rise in costs, emerging players in the food industry, workforce’s weakness and money flow. By identifying threats and likely threats, I will have the ability to prepare in advance and reduce any effect it may have to Kfc (Sarsby, 2016).

Swot analysis is useful in strategic planning as it gives room for brain storming the problem by identifying both suitable factors and unsuitable factors which is vital in attaining the objectives. This approach supports competitive evaluation, business progress and development of fast food products. The simplicity of swot analysis requires mainly technical skills .Therefore the opinion of other members can be easily included into the strategy (Sarsby, 2016).

After the evidence and facts have been gathered, they can be discussed in teams and assist the team come up with elaborate strategies before settling on one specific strategy. A review of information the team has acquired about the enterprise from the swot analysis should also be discussed. This discussion will help to fit the information and piece it together to come up with solutions to challenges.

Swot analysis is the best method I can use for strategic planning and I expect the same of my team members. They should state the goals of the company and use them as a guideline to strategic planning. Strengths weakness, opportunities and threats are the four pillars upon which the planning should be based. This will help build an edge over our competitors.

References

Olsen, E. (2013). Strategic planning for dummies. Hoboken, N.J: John Wiley & Sons.

Sarsby, A. (2016). SWOT analysis.

Keillor, B. D., & Wilkinson, T. J. (2011). International business in the 21st century. Santa Barbara, Calif: Praeger.

Capstone assignment – Netflix case study

Netflix should implement the Prospector Strategy given the nature of business, whose success in growth and expansion has attracted and will continue attracting competitors who want a share of this success.  The firm has previous assumed that its rival in the market – Blockbuster – would not launch competitive efforts which caught it off guard. The market is changing in the way customers are buying movies, how and where they are obtaining them. While going to an actual movie theatre is still preferred among many people, watching movies at home is becoming common buoyed by technological improvement. This shows a changing market environment in terms of customer preferences and increasing competition from many providers for the same products.  With changing environment come new opportunities that Netflix can use to serve the customers. Prospector strategy will ready the firm to adapt to changes in the market and compete favorably with new and existing rivals. The strategy allows an organization to be constantly innovating by looking into emerging market opportunities in form of trends and situations that require aligning products to meet demand in a dynamic environment Coulter, (Coulter, 2013).  The innovation may include using technology to enhance movie streaming by customers and enhancing the process through customers can review movies and pay for them. The prospector strategy will enable Netflix to always remain ahead of its rivals for both online streaming and DVD sales.

Netflix uses its resources to establish an online platform, including an online site for DVD subscription and delivery that can be visited by customers using their computers. Being the first to launch such a platform, the growth of the subscriber base was rapid enough to reach 24.4 million subscribers.  This enabled the firm to offer the most expansive DVDs selection. Organizational capabilities refer to various process and routines that enable a firm to transform resources into product or services (Coulter, 2013). Netflix capabilities are hedged on innovation, by using technology to provide online delivery and subscription services to the customers.  Innovation of the firm enabled the building of best internet movie services, grow annual subscriptions and improve on earnings per share. Core competences refer to capabilities of an organization that enables it to create value that is essential for its business operations. The capabilities of an organization act as the source of core competences. In addition, the competences help in the improvement of organizational capabilities (Coulter, 2013). The ability to build online platform for customer subscription acts as the source of Netflix competences and core competences. This has enabled the firm to grow rapidly over the years and trounce rival firms like Blockbuster, in terms of DVD sales and streaming business.

Functional concerns including product, people and support process are normally addressed in line with goals of an organization (Coulter, 2013). Product designing, production and marketing are major concerns that are addressed with the customer in mind.  The design of the Netflix products – provision and delivery of movies – is done on the basis of innovative technology. This refers to packaging of the services through an online platform or a site where customers can easily access the various movies they need. The designing of the product is done through invention of an online delivery and subscription site that enables the product – movies – to “come to the customers”. This makes it possible for the product to reach a large number of customers around the world who are keen to easily obtain a certain movie. The design is also addressed through online streaming, where the product – streaming services – can reach the customer at their specific destination.  People are the most important asset of a firm and respecting their ideas and differences sustains organizational growth in the long-run (Coulter, 2013). In Netflix the concern for people is addressed through setting of ambitious goals for the firm by Reed Hastings the CEO. The people share in the organizational goal. Support process includes various strategies aimed at assisting an organization to carry out its operations effectively and efficiently and hence, create a competitive edge (Coulter, 2013). The concern is addressed in Netflix through development of profitable partnerships between the firm and content providers, placing the cost incurred by customer during streaming under control and licensing original series for the firm.

Netflix competitive advantage can be traced to its innovation in service provision to the customers. Competitive advantage refers to aspects in an organization that sets it apart from others in the market (Coulter, 2013). This involves doings things in a way that others cannot or doing such in a distinctive and better way. The value chain for Netflix is based on competitive strengths that consists of large customer subscription on its website that is increasingly year after year. The focus on customer and the readiness to face off any challenge in the market competition gives the firm a competitive advantage over its rivals in the industry. The ability to focus on online movie streaming while at the same time not hurting or neglecting DVD sales has set apart the operations of the firm and improved its competitive edge in the market. The creation of partnership with providers of content places the firm at a better position in the market than its existing rivals like HBO and Amazon and any potential new entrant. This enables the firm to remain focused on the streaming services where the future of the business lies.

References

Coulter, M. K. (2012). Strategic management in action. Upper Saddle River, N.J: Prentice Hall.

4. Discuss the various ways in which innovation landscape can be viewed in the public sector. Be sure to discuss the three dimensions summarized in Table 2.2 on page 47 in Bason (2010).

Also discuss how modern work organization can be a powerful enabler of innovation through people and culture based capacity building, risk and diversity management, skills, and incentives.

Three dimensions of the innovation landscape are what triggers innovation, how new is it and in what way, and what is the value. Each of these dimensions has its own components. First, the triggers for innovation are research, technology, efficiency demands, employees, and citizens. Second, the innovation may be incremental or radical, and concern a product, a process, a paradigm, and a position. Lastly, the value of the innovation may be in its productivity, service, results, and democracy. Despite this classification, the real world does not meet any classification. Most often, innovations are caused by several factors at once. For example, citizens and ongoing research. The innovation can also change not only the product or service, but also an organization of delivery, structure of organization and more.

While the majority of civil administrators are not innovators, they may be driven by active citizens. Therefore, the culture of active participation in civil administration may largely impact the quantity and quality of innovations. Modern education can be a powerful driver of innovation if taught for bachelor’s and master’s programs. Public leaders also need to attract attention to innovations in the public sector. An important factor here is the ability and willingness of employees to drive the innovation further. Employee-driven innovations are daily innovations that improve the organization and outcomes of work. Employee-driven innovation can be enhanced by a powerful supportive management. Also, employee-driven innovation is possible when employees are well-prepared, have valuable knowledge and skills, and are open for cooperation. However, every innovation includes risk. It is a risk of failure and misunderstanding, and this risk is a barrier to innovation. The thing is that failure is considered bad in our culture, and everyone tries to avoid it. Eventually, this leads to the unwillingness to innovate to avoid failing. At this point, a diversity of cultural origins of management and employees may be very useful.

Risk management fosters the need to experiment, which eventually steers us to our final destination through the obstacles which might be avoided. In understanding how to deal with, and overcome obstacles, it will be easier to make more approaches which help in achieving more, since without risking, no innovation can be made. Similarly, risking results in the development of risk aversion measures, which are responsible for encouraging the employees to spend most of their time exploring and prototyping new ideas, which may help in improving the general performance of a company, and the outlook of different tasks within the company. Finally, risk is consequently necessary in encouraging proper thinking, which is necessary for coming with new ideas which seek to improve the general performance of a company.    

Incentive and risk management go hand in hand, in the sense that through risk experimentation, employees are encouraged to come up with new ideas of developing the performance of the company. In addition, motivating the employees through rewarding them for their performance boosts their working morale, making them willing to come up with new ideas of enabling the company to perform better. In rewarding the employees, the company is able to create a good relationship with them, hence allowing them to come up with new ideas.    

The diversity is a clue to understanding any issue from various points of view and help to find non-obvious causes and results. It unlocks innovation through creating an environment whereby ideas from different perspectives are heard. If minorities become a part of a critical mass and leaders value differences, all the employees can find high-ranked people to go to bat for convincing ideas and can therefore persuade those in charge for budgets to organize resources to develop such ideas.    

Working culture is significant, as it defines the approaches which employees take while doing their daily activities. Developing an innovation culture in the work place is better for the general performance of the company, as it helps in allowing the office to move forward, and to also change the employees’ mentality, hence making them to come up with new ideas, which might be responsible for steering the company to reach its goals.          

Reference

Bason, C. (2017). Leading Public Sector Innovation: co-creating for a better society. Bristol:

Policy Press.

Global brands

1. One of the trends that drive consumer behavior in the analysis is the strength of branding. The behavior of customers is always driven by the nature of branding and they are always attracted by high performing brands. Companies always strive to modify their brands to keep up with the changing behaviors of customers. The other trend is the level of technology. On looking at the leading brands, the factor that has triggered their being on top is advancement in technology (Frampton, 2017). Technology is widely used in the business world today. For instance, it can be used to create wide connection. This helps to attract the attention of many customers hence strengthens the salesforce.
2. Brand value commitment is one of the components that were used to determine the leading brand (Frampton, 2017). With commitment, companies will always strive to adjust basing on conditions that are available in the market. In so doing, marketing professionals explore effective ways of building a strong brand and this influences value creation. Consistency involves the impression of a business to its customers. Consistency builds trust which will give the business necessary recognition and credibility required in fostering relationships with customers. With the trust built, customers can confidently refer other people to your company.
3. Apple is one of the top 10 brands that have been successful worldwide (Frampton, 2017). One of the reasons that make it successful is that the people who create the products become the preliminary buyers. This is an approach that makes it quite different from other brands. Their products are always easy to use and they tend to be simple. Apple also offers in-store experiences and great customer service. Google on the other hand being a collective entrepreneur allows many groups of people to share risks and associated rewards, hence, holding a big number of shares globally. Generally, the top brands give customer their first priority by anticipating the exact need of customers.

References

Frampton, Jez (2017). Growth in a changing world. Interbrand best global brand report 2017.

The privacy rights of employees in workplace

            Employee right refers to the ability to receive just treatment from employers. Human Resource professionals deal with overseeing most activities involving employees, for instance, hiring, wages, employee benefits, paychecks, and firing. This implies that human resource personnel have free access to employees’ personal information. This information may include one’s race, political views, religion, sexual preference, health information, sexual preferences, and criminal records (Nash & Estreicher, 2010). This information may be sensitive and employees may want to keep it private, thus a need for privacy in this case. There are principles that govern HR policies to protect privacy rights of employees at workplace. These principles aim at limiting collection of information, keeping personal information accurate and secure.

            Privacy right at work place is an increasingly controversial legal issue especially in this generation of increased reliance on computers. Employers (HR) are required to put in place best practice in order to maintain privacy at workplace. The general governing principle is that HR should know which information to collect and retain from employees and whether that information is free to be passed to others. The other principles include; when to give employees’ information to third parties. This principle helps employers to create a trusting relationship with employees and by so doing; the two parties can live happily to have a productive workforce. In line with this, the HR should not give a list of its employees to another organization for market purposes. However, there are some circumstances, which can necessitate an employer to unveil such information to a third party (Nash & Estreicher, 2010). For instance, when the information is needed by an inspector to carry out his duties of inspection, employers will be required to provide the information. At some instances, the information may be needed by government agencies and when this is a requirement by law for such an agency to access the information, then the employer may provide it. The employer may also give the information to a permit holder or it is needed for reference.

            The other principle is about access to email and internet. Use internet and email may also raise privacy issues at work place (Nash & Estreicher, 2010). Login codes may make employees think that their web browsing activities are private not knowing that those activities can be scrutinized by their employer. This principle helps to ensure that both employers and employees need to understand the responsibilities that apply to internet use and email.

Recommendation

            Therefore, in order to give them employees a right to privacy, employers should provide a notice to their employees about disclosure of any personal information. Doing it behind their knowledge deprives them the right. It is recommendable for employers to clearly explain to their employees the appropriate way of using email and internet at workplace (Hansson & Palm, 2005). Employers should also outline the possible consequences that come as a result of misusing web browsing. Employers should also let their employees know the means of monitoring internet use, by informing them how they will be monitoring it and how frequent they will be doing so. Additionally, employees also need to understand their role at work place by doing the right thing at a right time so as to produce the expected output. This will avoid such cases of being monitored.

References

New York University Annual Conference on Labor (1997- ), Nash, J. R., & Estreicher, S. (2010). Workplace privacy: Proceedings of the New York University 58th Annual Conference on Labor. Austin [Tex.: Wolters Kluwer Law & Business, Kluwer Law International.

Hansson, S. O., & Palm, E. (2005). The ethics of workplace privacy. Bruxelles: PIE-Peter Lang.

Boeing Company

Introduction

Boeing Company is an American aerospace firm, the largest in the industry and the leader in the manufacturing of commercial jets. The headquarters of the firm is Chicago, Illinois and was founded in 1916 in Seatlle, Washington. The firm underwent various mergers and splits which bore other companies like United Airlines but it emerged as the premier aircraft manufacturer in US (Boeing, 1).  It was not until 1958 that the firm started delivery of the commercial airlines and even though in its history it has been associated commercial planes, its involvement in defense and space programs has eclipsed that segment.  The firm operations of the company involve manufacturing of commercial jetliners, security and space systems and provision of services related to aftermarket support. The firm supports U.S, allied government customers and airlines in over 150 countries (Boeing, 1). Apart from commercial and military aircrafts, the firm’s products also include weapons, defense and electronic and launch systems, various systems related to information communication. It also provides performance- based training and related logistics.  The firm continues to grow buoyed by effective leadership and innovation in aerospace so that the expanding services and product line are able to serve the emerging needs of customers. It employs a largely diverse and innovative workforce comprising of 140,000 employees in U.S and over 65 countries (Boeing, 1).  The operations of the firm are more susceptible to the state of global economy than firms in other major industries.

Organizational structure and Business models

The operations of the firms are organized into 3 units including Defense, Space and Security, Commercial Airplanes and the newly started Boeing Global Services.  These business units are supported by Boeing Capital Corporation that offers financing solutions around the world.  The functional organizations through which the company operates are based on program management and engineering, development program and technology (Boeing, 3). It also focuses on advanced designing and manufacture of various systems and various services related to finance, safety and improvement of IT, productivity and quality. The aforementioned business units are normally focused on these areas of operations and productivity so that they form away significant part of Boeing business operations and strategy (Boeing, 3).  

Commercial airlines

Boeing is the premier manufacturer of different jetliners over the past decades including the Boeing 787-10 Dreamliner, 737 MAX and 777X. It provides a range of freighters that is most complete with around 90 % of cargo in the world is ferried by Boeing planes (Boeing, 1).

Defense, Space and Safety

The BDS is a global organization that is diversified which provides the best solutions for designing, producing and modifying for commercial and military aerospace equipments such s satellites and other systems for human exploration and related after-sale supporting services (Boeing, 3). This segment is driven by the vision of the firm which includes connecting, protecting, exploring and inspiring people through aerospace innovation. The firms is also looking for better ways for leveraging information technologies and proceed with investment in research and development related to improved platforms and capabilities(Boeing, 3).

Boeing Global Services

The launching of this business unit has been based on the company’s knowledge in providing solutions for innovative services to customers of defense, commercial and space products. The focus for this unit has been digital aviation, engineering and analytics services, training support and logistics on supply chain. This is aimed at enabling the company to provide solutions that are cost-competitive and agile for the various equipments irrespective of their original manufacturer. This will ensure that customers are able to minimize costs, improve efficiency and achieve optimal operations. In addition , the Global services is aimed at providing constant support for customers to maintain the operations of the commercial aircraft highly efficient and offer mission assurance for countries around the globe(Boeing, 2).

Boeing Capital Corporation

The operations of this organization involve global provision of financing solutions for customers in their efforts to purchase Boeing’s products and delivery of the same. The portfolio value of company that stands at $4.1 billion strengthens the reach of the corporation around the globe. It is also supported by extensive knowledge of the customers, expertise of seasoned financial professionals and better equipment (Boeing, 1).

Exportation of Aluminum Alloy and Engines

Aluminum alloys have various benefits that make them very useful in manufacturing of aerospace products, and have been in use since metal-skinned aircrafts were introduced. Major alloys have been an aluminum-magnesium alloy whose weight is less compared to other aluminum alloys, is less flammable in comparison to high percentage magnesium alloys (Rambabu, 31). Bahrain kingdom has a much liberalized airline industry and has various airlines that need these products and services offered by Boeing Company. Various airlines have established themselves and operate in the aviation sector of Bahrain since it is the most liberal in the region. These airlines run their hubs especially from the major Bahrain International Airport including the executive and business jet airlines, low-cost regional carriers like Kuwait’s Jazeera Airways and more importantly Gulf Air which is the national carrier. This means that Bharain deals with many executive and low-cost airlines that provide enough market that would serve the needs of customers for repair product. The creation of a product that can meet the need for repair of the airplanes for the airlines was based on the knowledge of this lucrative market. The product would is important to the airlines since it  provides the support needed by the airline in safeguarding passengers lives and also  equip the firms’ commercial services to any other country involved in exporting activities.

Competition

The Bahrain market is very important in the airline market in middle-east especially in relation to commercial airplane since the strategically planned development of the Arab’s market is defined by the Bahrain. The airline industry in Bahrain is characterized by a steady expansion of extensive networks for airlines and this has contributed to high growth in air travel. The introduction of the new product is , therefore, based on the premise that it can find a sufficient market in this country given the large demand for quality repair products for airlines.  The company’s estimates that the Middle East region will require more than 3300 new commercial aircrafts  at a value of around $770 billion in the next 2 decades in terms of  renewal and growth of fleet is an indication that the Bahrain market is large enough. However, the growth in market for a product attracts substitute products from competing firms which have also noticed the growth in demand. The major firm that will be competing with Boeing Company for this market is Aluminum Bahrain B.S.C that has constantly been ranked among the largest aluminium smelters globally with modernized operations (Bloomberg,1).  The firm is famous for the innovative policies and technological strengths that enable it to produce a wide range of products that serve the same market served by Boeing new product.

The firm operates its own aluminum related smelter and infrastructure where it produces a range of products that are used locally and exported to other areas including Europe, North America , Africa and other major markets around the globe. The firm has a large human capital with 84 percent of the Alba’s workforce being Bahrain nationals (Alba, 1).  This means that Alba’s internal and market strengths provide a big threat to the intended exportation of Boeing Aircraft related products in this country and also other country’s allied to the manufacturer. Alba is able to produce high quality aluminum product that can compete with the repair product manufactured by Boeing Company and present stiff competition for the same in Bahrain market. The competition is also informed by the fact that Alba forms part of the non-petroleum market whose growth rate are exceeding any historic record , and this include high value information technology and manufacturing industry (Alba, 1). This implies that Bahrain is capable of producing high quality repair products that can compete with repair products produced by Boeing Company.  In addition , buoyed by the growth in the economy and improved market conditions, the firm with the support of government has expansion strategies that are aimed at upgrading the production lines over the coming few years. The improved information technology in the manufacturing sectors means that Boeing will encounter stiff competition for Alba in terms of innovation ad this calls for better innovation in marketing of the repair product in this country.

Potential target market

Bahrain is ranked among the major open economies in the market region comprising of Middle East and North Africa (International Trade Center, 1).  There have been great efforts by the country to diversify the economy which has seen the government enter into trading agreement with other countries. Since 1995, the country has been a World Trade Organization and Gulf Co-operation Council Member, and has economic and bilateral trade agreements with many countries including France, China, India, and USA, Singapore and United Kingdom and even 17 nations with membership in Greater Arab Free Trade Agreement (International Trade Center, 1). The market has high development in transport and communication facilities which makes it home to many multinational companies in the Gulf.  The improved infrastructure, stable financial institutions and free trade agreements, the country has positioned itself strategically and offers various incentives to foreign investors who wish to access the regional and international markets. The nature of the market is that it has high export flows. In fact, the country is ranked the 60^th biggest export economy globally and in 2016, the exports amounted to about $12.6B and imports totaled to around $11.5 B which resulted to $1.09B, a positive balance of trade (Observatory of Economic Complexity,1). The investment in the infrastructure has had positive on Aviation industry and the clearly demonstrated vision has great potential to improve the industry to the benefits of the firms targeting such a market. The market is also boosted by the logistic industry whose efficient processes give the market a competitive advantage over countries in the region. The growth and expansion in the market is also boosted by the Gulf Cooperation Council, a trade arrangement that touches on aviation, whose growth is faster in comparison to other regions in the world (Oxford Business Group 109).

There is a correlation in demand surge which means that Boeing Company has an opportunity to exploit the market by basing its operations in Bahrain. While the major airlines such as Qatar Airways, Etihad Airways and Emirates are competing to have a share of the market, Boeing is presented to export its repair products in the regions to serve the increasing need of customers who are these airlines. While the airlines are battling to capture the expanding aviation market in the region, Boeing is presented with an opportunity to exploit by introducing a highly innovative product that will serve the needs of customers and hence, gain a competitive advantage over rivals such as Alba. The improved infrastructure and information communication technology in the country can be used by the Boeing Company to its advantage especially in expanding the export business to neighboring market (Oxford Business Group 111).

 The trade in the Arab countries is seen to have an upward trend which means that the potential market for exported for Bahrain will is also positive. The export flow nature of Bahrain market will also continue improving considering that traffic growth for countries in Middle East will continue growing at a health rate with an expectation that growth will reach 5.9 percent yearly over the next 2 decades. It also expected that various aircrafts such as twin-aisle airplanes will make up almost half of new airplanes in the region for Boeing in comparison with 23 % globally (Boeing, 1). The implication is that with demand for Boeing aircraft in Bahrain and regional aviation market , the demand for repair product for airlines will increase and this present a good opportunity for the firm to expand in that region. Using Bahrain as the major export market and a base for reaching the regional market, Boeing will manage to increase the sale of its product in this specific market. The demand for the product will also be improved by increased adaptation by Arab airlines to the global environment through the restructure of programs, expanding and upgrading of fleets and the implementation of new technologies.

Bahrain political environment

The country is a constitutional monarchy citizens have no right to elect a government or determine the political system. The government is normally appointed by the King who is surrounded by royal family who influence the political decisions of the country. The current king is Hamad Bin Isa al-Khalifa, who heads the state and has the power to appoint the cabinet. The government structure is also includes the parliament comprising of an upper house that is appointed, and a Consultative Council (Shura) and Council of Representatives that is elected into office (Global Security Org,1).  The kingdom has been enjoying an increased freedom of expression and progression on human rights. These reforms have met opposition, with part of Shia activists complaining that they have not achieved economic and political inclusion of the Shia community which is the largest group in the constitution. While the country has experienced unrest in the past especially in 1990s , the situation has a times become worse with parliamentary opposition – Wifaq – proving its ability to  destabilize the country  by channeling political energy among the Shia  into protests, though , non-violent.  

The political environment of Bahrain is expected to remain relatively unstable in the future as continued protests against the Al Khalifa royal family rule continues driven by the legally recognized opposition and the Shia activists.  The government is also expected to increasingly take a hard line while dealing with such opposition and unrest and in its attempt to eliminate or suppress them.  This has the potential to affect the economic performance of the country in terms of economic growth and market stability in the future for the export and import business.  It is expected that economic growth will reach a low of 2.1 percent in 2018 from a rate of 2.7 percent in 2017. This also informed by the decision of the government to impose austerity measures that will affect consumption and at the same time, reduce the output weighs on the growth of the oil sector.

 In addition, the government allows 100 percent business ownership in most of the sectors although some restrictions on specific entity and sector may apply. The business policies of the country expect any company setting up its operations to have a Bahrain Investor Center and hence, to officially get Commercial Registration. In addition, firms operating in the country are expected to adhere to various set standards such International Accounting and Corporate Governance Standards. There are also other technical and standards regulations in the Bahraini law, such as a requirement to package and label products in English and/ or Arabic. The country’s taxation policies include lowest personal and corporate taxes in the Gulf region.  A 5 percent custom is imposed on imported goods but goods that are destined for re-exportation are exempt. The political environment is, therefore, relatively conducive for a multinational firms like Boeing Company is keen to export goods and base its operations in the region.

Bahrain demography

 The Bahrain society is major composed of Muslim population and a fewer immigrant workers, and the society is made of diverse ethnic, religious and cultural people. The official census report for 2010 that was produced by Central Informatics organization showed that the Kingdom had 1234572 as the total of resident population (Ministry of Information Affairs, 1). The population estimates for 2014 comprised of 1.316 million and by the year 2020, the population is predicted to be around 1.592 million and by 2030, it is expected to have reached 2.128 million (Ministry of Information Affairs,1).  The current growth rate of the population is an average of 7.4 percent.  The country is known to be an example of peaceful co-existence and tolerance among the various religions, sects and cultures in the society. This means that the country’s social environment is relatively good for business operations to stability provided. The country has led and hosted many international and regional initiatives such as hosting conferences on dialogue between Christians and Muslims and among Cultures and Civilizations in 2003 and 2014 respectively (Ministry of Information Affairs,1).  An understanding of target’s market demography is important for an organization to achieve its goals, since it assist in deciding the market needs and the product mix to provide. The information is also necessary to know the promotion, pricing and packaging methods to be used.  For Boeing, it is specifically important to understand the demographic growth and estimate the market in which airlines in the industry will be operating from in the future.

Works cited

Boeing. Boeing in Brief.1. Available from: http://www.boeing.com/company/general-info/

Boeing.BOEING OVERVIEW.2017. Available from: http://www.boeing.com/resources/boeingdotcom/company/general_info/pdf/boeing_overview.pdf

Rambabu, P., et al. "Aluminium Alloys for Aerospace Applications." Aerospace Materials and Material Technologies. Springer Singapore, 2017. 29-52.

International Trade Center. Bahrain. Available at: http://www.intracen.org/country/bahrain/

Oxford Business Group. The Report: Bahrain 2008. Oxford Business Group.2008. 109-112

Bloomberg .Company Overview of Bahrain Aluminium Extrusion Company B.S.C. 2017.Available at: https://www.bloomberg.com/research/stocks/private/snapshot.asp?privcapId=111581659

Alba. Aluminum for the world. n.d. Available at: http://www.albasmelter.com/Pages/default.aspx

Observatory of Economic Complexity. Bahrain.2016. Available at: https://atlas.media.mit.edu/en/profile/country/bhr/

Waheed, Abdul, and Shujaat Abbas. "Potential Export Markets for Bahrain: A Panel Data Analysis." International Journal of Trade, Economics and Finance 6.3 (2015): 165.

Global Security Org.Bahrain – Politics.n.d. Available at: https://www.globalsecurity.org/military/world/gulf/bahrain-politics.htm