Insider threat and Physical vulnerability Research Paper

Insider threat and Physical vulnerability - Research Paper Example Physical security of the database The growing technological advancements are posing a threat to the new requirements of the iTrust database. Cloud storage, a method of data storage that allows users to share information online is one of the basis on which the iTrust database is prone to attackers. Cloud computing can be misused to attack the database through dishonest activities. Cloud computing at the database, just like in other systems, deal with privacy and have a rather easy registration system. Although the easy registration system gets geared to make the software user friendly, criminals usually use advanced technologies to access the software. This poses the highest threat to businesses and consumers that use the system (Shaw et al, 2013). There have been cases of use of Botnets to attack a public cloud network and spread viruses. The Zeus Botnet has on several occasions attacked the Amazon cloud. The Zeus Botnet attacked Amazon’s EC2 cloud computing service managing t o install a virus. The Botnet further took control of a cloud platform. The malware remained hidden for a long time while transferring millions of dollars (Shaw et al, 2013).Two ways have been proposed to deal with such malware. The security threat posed by the malware can be addressed through implementing cloud analytics. The threat can also be addressed through employing more personnel to monitor the database. Another threat that comes with cloud computing is the difficulty with which consumers get to understand the security implications associated with usage of software like itrust database. Whereas most consumers would prefer a relatively easy set of application programming interfaces, this seems to deter efforts to safeguard the database from any threats. Ensuring that the database gets adequately safeguarded may call for complex application programming interfaces. Such interfaces are able to detect any unpermitted intrusion into the system and swiftly counter-attack the attemp t (Shaw et al, 2013) The issue of account service and traffic hijacking remains a legitimate threat to most of the iTrust users. Traffic hijacking has a wide range. It may involve spamming or use of stolen user credentials. Considering the sensitivity of the data stored in the iTrust database, hackers can in many ways put to risk the lives of the users. This can be done by just gaining a simple entrance. In a situation where the attack occurs on the urgent care, the attacker can manage to follow up on transactions, edit data stored on the database as well as steal users’ personal information .To curb this, preventive measures must be taken. Such preventive measures may include effecting password policies, use of tracking software and providing internet usage education to all employees (Researchomatic, 2012). The insider threat Insider threat can be defined as any threat that comes from people within the organization and who have the organization’s inside information re garding how the organization stores its information. The insider threat faced at the iTrust database is quite challenging. A lack of separation of duties seems to pose the greatest insider threat at the moment. Separation of duties ensures that an insider with too much power or authority is not able to attack the database using the power or authority that they have (SafeNet, 2013). Example of an incident of an insider threat is when a head of department

PC Case Essay Example for Free

PC Case Essay According to Carter, â€Å"a Pc case is the basis of the computer system within which all the other parts reside. The choice of a case size determines what other components of a machine may fit inside of it. It is the visible portion of a machine system†. Some modern computer cases come with a power supply pre-installed inside them, but most of them do not. It is therefore necessary for one to get a power supply which will work with the rest of the components and which has sufficient power. There are different types of cases which include small towers, tall towers, horizontal desktops, slim desktops, and also the lunch box size and shape made popular by the Shuttle and Mini-ITX case builders. (Carter, 2002:14) Computers Pc cases are available in many form factors or rather different magnitudes. The size and form of a case in a computer is generally dogged by the motherboard’s form factor that is intended to accommodate, since this is the most central and largest component of many computers. As a result, form factors in individual’s computer typically spell out only the inner proportions and case layout. Form factors for blade servers and rack-mounted incorporate defined peripheral dimensions as well bearing in mind that these computer Pc cases must themselves fit in particular inclusions. The conservative viewpoint says that a case carries out several functions. First, it holds on to a range of form factors so as to house the different components that make up a PC. (Ashton B, 2002:33) These factors are PSU, the motherboard, PCI cards, drives and fans. It also provides noise shielding. It allows air to flow through the case in order to cool the components within it. It gives a Pc its attractive appearance. The silent viewpoint is mostly in emphasis. Form factor adherence is implicit for all cases. However, EMI looks and shielding are derivative to the main properties of airflow vents that are exceedingly unobstructed, tortuous paths which facilitate noise escape to the case, airflow paths that are well-directed within the case and low sound transmission, sturdy construction and low resonance. To help personalize Pc cases on the computer market today, majority of the computer Pc case manufacturers present with various accessories. These accessories take account of items which include a case cover that has a window that has been built-in to specialized fans and lights. Bearing in mind that the time for the standard beige box are no longer in use, users now have several factors to consider when picking out their case which include color, design and lights and windows as well. (Cheek, J, 1995:19) Design The material of the Pc and the eminence of the workmanship normally make a big difference in a Pc case. At their base most cases are made with aluminum while others are made with steel. Other materials which incorporate plastics and acrylics as well are also used to complement the design and appearance of the Pc case. These materials not only impact on the ways that heat is held in or circulated out of the system but also impact on heaviness or portability of the Pc case. It is however of great significance that individual checks how the Pc case is put together. Finished edges or rather beveled normally minimize the possibilities of cuts while working inside the Pc case. To prevent doors breakage, hinges should be sturdy enough. Power Supplies In modern days, majority of the computer cases are put on the market independently from the power supply. Nevertheless, a number of these computer cases do come with a power supply already included. In cases where computers comes with power supply already inaugurated in the case, it is importance that users authenticate that the power supply wattage meets the requirements of the mechanism that will be fixed inside. In addition, it is importance for users of the computer to check and ensure that it has the correct connectors and enough cables essential for all of the inner components. Layout The adornment of the computer Pc case and its design can unswervingly impact on its usage. The position of the fans and ports on the computer normally improves access or rather increases the style of the Pc case. For instance, when a case has been placed on the floor, it would be considered better for the extra USB, audio and Fire Wire ports to be positioned on the top of the case than when positioned on the front. On the other hand, it would be better for the ports to be on the front should the case be on the top of a desk or inside a cabinet. Drives in the rear a door panel can lessen noise and this gives the Pc case a look that is more uniform. However, although the drive behind the door panel reduces the noise and gives the computer Pc case a more uniform look, it makes it impossible to access the drives behind the door panel. Conclusion Excess heat has a negative impact on the performance of the internal components in the desktop. Due to this heat effect, cooling is considered a very important factor to bring into attention. An assortment of vents ducts and fans that are built into a Pc case either aids or deters the flow of the heat from the internal to the peripheral parts of the case. A computer Pc case with a large quantity of the flow of air can also lead to a large amount of dust buildup inside of the case. However, the amount of dust in the computer Pc case can be reduced by acquisition of Filters and screens that are designed to help minimize dust in the Pc case. (Hill, P. , 1995:29) In order for one to have silent computing, unrestricted airflow vents should be used. A major approach is the use of quiet fans which work at reduced speed to eliminate the noise produced by fans. Since the volume and the pressure of airflow is significantly lower than that of a standard PC, any hitch at the vents creates a quite a large negative effect in temperatures. Well-directed Airflow Path in the Case is best accomplished by reducing the number of superfluous holes in the Pc case. Randomly placed holes on the sides of cheap cases, for example, tend to disrupt the ideal flow of air, which is generally seen as from front bottom to the back top. (Moir A,1991: 23)

Innocent Drink Analysis | SWOT and PESTEL

Innocent Drink Analysis | SWOT and PESTEL 1. Introduction This report shall analyse Innocent Drinks, which has been cited as one of the fastest growing British companies on record (Phelvin and Wallop, 2008; Reynolds, 2013). This shall be done by giving a brief overview of the Innocent Drinks, carrying out a SWOT analysis in order to determine its prospects and potential challenges, as well as conducting a PESTEL analysis in order to determine the impact its various environments have had and will possibly have in the future. A cultural analysis shall also be performed, as culture has been proven to have an influence on a company’s performance (Kotter and Heskett, 1992). Based on these analyses, recommendations for Innocent Drinks shall be suggested and conclusions drawn. 2. Overview Innocent Drinks was founded in 1999 by a group of three friends – Adam Balon, Richard Reed and Jon Wright – following a positive reception to the sales of their smoothies at a music festival (Innocent Drinks, 2014a; Rubin, 2010). It has grown since then from its small start as a stall set up at the Jazz on Green festival in London to become Europe’s best selling smoothie, with its products being sold in several European countries, a revenue of over  £213.5 million as of 2012, and a consistent increase in market share over the years (Innocent Drinks, 2014a; Reynolds, 2013; Rubin, 2010). Its mission is â€Å"to make it easy for people to do themselves some good – and that doing so should taste good too† (Rubin, 2010, p. 1). Its values are to be natural, entrepreneurial, responsible, commercial and generous (Innocent Drinks, 2014d). The innocent promise is that it â€Å"tastes good; does good†, and this is fulfilled through its use of tasty healthy products which are sustainably sourced, and through giving 10% of all its profits to charity (Innocent Drinks, 2014c, n.p.). The company’s product range is divided into four categories: smoothies, juices, kids’ products (including kid’s drinks and fruit tubes), and foods (Innocent Drinks, 2014b). 3. SWOT Analysis The SWOT analysis below highlights the strengths and weaknesses of Innocent Drinks, as well as the opportunities available to the company and the potential threats it could face. Strengths Innocent Drinks has experienced strong consistent growth over the past years. According to Reynolds (2013), Britvic Soft Drinks reported that Innocent Drinks was one of 2013’s big winners, with a growth in its annual value sales by more than 35%. It was also a sponsor of the London 2012 Olympics, and following this, its sales volume experienced a significant increase of more than 60%. It also has a wide range of products and is continuously increases the number of products in its range (O’Reilly, 2014), and this expansion strategy helps increase its customer base and sales volume. Its recent partnership with Coca-Cola, which involved Coca-Cola buying the majority of its shares, has also enabled it to leverage on Coca-Cola’s marketing, buying and media power, as well as its wealth of experience and available capital. It was also through this partnership that it was able to become the official smoothie of the Olympics (Neate, 2013). Innocent Drinks has also won several awards, including an award from the Healthy Food Guide in 2011 for its Caribbean veg pot, another from the World Juice Award in 2011 for the best new product (its Apple Juice), and another for best packaging (for its carafe), various awards from the Brand Index Buzz, CoolBrands Award, and the Grocer Gold Awards (Innocent Drinks, 2014e). These awards greatly enhance brand awareness and customer perception. It is also seen as a company with strong ethical values, and topped the list of Social Brands in 2012 (Innocent Drinks, 2014e). This is also very beneficial for the company, because strong ethics and environmentally-friendly policies and actions can be a source of reputational, financial and competitive advantage for companies (Markley and Davis, 2007). The ideas, skills, commitment and dedication of the founders as well as the staff of the company is also a key strength of Innocent Drinks, and is one of the reasons behind its growth and expansion over the years. Weaknesses Innocent Drinks is still a growing brand, and has relatively less visibility than other fruit juice brands. It also faces strong competition from Tropicana Products, a division of PepsiCo which is more popular, being the UK’s number one juice brand. When PepsiCo launched its smoothies range in 2008, Richard Reed, one of Innocent Drinks’ founders, stated that their competitor â€Å"is regarded as one of the most ferociously competitive on the planet. They have launched smoothies this year and we are their target† (Sibun, 2008, n.p.). Tropicana also has the advantage of â€Å"60 years of experience in fruit selection and excellent blends† (PepsiCo, n.d., p.1). Innocent Drinks’ prices are also higher than that of other brands, and this can prevent some segments of the market from purchasing their products, and also give competitors an upper hand. Additionally, there have been criticisms regarding its ethical claims (Phelvin and Wallop, 2008; Sibun, 2008). Furthermore, Innocent Drinks major market is the United Kingdom, and the strong reliance on this market leaves it susceptible to economic as well as other challenges faced by this market. Although it has expanded across Europe, its expansion was reported as â€Å"an expensive decision†, with the company recording considerable losses from 2008 to 2011 following the expansion (Anderson, 2012, p. 1). Opportunities A growing interest in healthy eating and healthy lifestyles in general; and campaigns such as the five a day campaign present significant opportunities from Innocent Drinks, particularly as their products are mainly made from fruits and vegetables (Bainbridge, 2013; Briggs, 2014). Bainbridge (2013) notes that as fruit juices and smoothies count towards the target of consuming 5 fruit and vegetable portions a day, they create a marketable health benefit. The fruit juice and smoothies market is also a popular and mature one, with a study by Marketing Week revealing that 88% of respondents had drank fruit juice or smoothies within the previous six months (Bainbridge, 2013). Bainbridge (2013) also notes that growths in the demographic (families, ABC1s and 16-34 year olds) which are above-average consumers of such drinks also lend support to the growth of this industry in general. Threats Reynolds (2013) reports that increases in raw material prices have particularly affected the juice industry. Climate change issues can also have a considerable impact on the supply of fruit, which in turn can affect Innocent Drinks’ juice and smoothie production. Barron (2009, p. 2) notes that Innocent Drinks â€Å"has been made increasingly aware of extreme weather conditions such as higher than average temperatures, drought and hurricanes†. These seriously affect its ability to, and ease of, sourcing particular fruits. There have also been questions regarding the purported health benefits of its juices and smoothies, and these doubts can have an impact on customer perception and sales volumes if not effectively addressed (Hodgekiss, 2013; Mintel, 2010). The information from this SWOT analysis, as well as the PESTEL analysis below, shall subsequently be used as a basis for recommendations for Innocent Drinks. 4. PESTEL Analysis And Analysis Of Innocent Drinks’ Competition The PESTEL (Political, Economic, Social, Technological, Environmental and Legal) framework is framework for analysing the macro environment in which an organisation operates. Analysing an environment using this framework enables an organisation to identify, understand and adapt to relevant external factors, and to plan for any effects environmental trends can have on its strategies and activities (Johnson, Whittington and Scholes, 2012). Political Political factors which affect Innocent Drinks include rulings and guidelines by the Department of Health, the Advertising Standards Authority, Trading Standards and the Office of Fair Trading. For instance, the Department of Health changed the 5-a-day guidelines to allow smoothies which contain all edible parts of the fruit used, or which contain 100% pure juice to count as two portions of the 5-a-day (The Telegraph, 2009). The guidelines by these bodes also affect even seemingly minor details. For instance, Innocent Drinks had to fight with trading standards when it wanted to change ‘use by’ to ‘enjoy by’ on its products, as part of the image they aimed to depict (Gubbay, 2011). Economic There are several economic factors which influence Innocent Drinks. These include the economic situation in the countries it operates in, particularly United Kingdom as well as some European countries, tax policies, and other market and industry factors. For instance, Levy (2011, n.p.) reports that smoothie sales fell by a third as they were deemed â€Å"too expensive for credit-crunched Brits†. The Food and Drink Innovation Network (FDIN) (2010) also report that following the recession, Innocent Drinks suffered significantly, with the sales of its smoothies falling by 29% in 2008 and 2009. Social Social factors which affect Innocent Drinks include consumer attitudes and buying patterns, the growth of its target demographics, and various health campaigns such as the 5-a-day campaign. A growing interest in healthy eating and projected growth trends for its main demographic present considerable opportunities for Innocent Drinks in the United Kingdom as well as in Europe in general. Technological Technological factors include innovation regarding new production methods and products, as well as the packaging for its products, recycling, and other trends and advances in manufacturing. For instance, Innocent Drinks had been working on increasing the percentage of recycled plastic used to manufacture its bottles (as it was previously made from 50% recycled plastic). It increased this to 100% in 2007, and is continuously looking for new ways in which it can minimise its impact on the environment through technological advances in manufacturing its packaging (Innocent Drinks, 2007). Environmental Innocent Drinks is affected by various environmental laws such as those regarding the carbon impact of its packaging components, the use of recyclable/renewable material, etc. Innocent Drinks has focused on discovering ways in which it can reduce wastage and its carbon impact on the environment, in terms of packaging, transportation of goods etc. Although it has faced some challenges regarding this, as reported by Phelvin and Wallop (2008) and discussed below under the cultural analysis, it nevertheless makes considerable effort to reduce any negative impact it has on the environment. In 2013 for instance, Innocent Drinks save over 1000 tonnes of plastic by putting its juice carafes on a diet, and also makes use of 100% Forest Stewardship Council certified material for its cartons (Innocent Drinks, 2014f). Legal Innocent Drinks has to comply with various laws including consumer protection laws, industry regulations (such as those outlined above). Legal issues such as competition laws also influence factors such as mergers and acquisitions, as in the case with Innocent Drinks’ partnership with Coca-Cola (Macalister and Teather, 2010). Table 1 below shows Innocent Drinks’ performance compared with other leading drink companies. TABLE 1: THE BRITVIC SOFT DRINKS REPORT: TOP GROCERY, CONVENIENCE AND IMPULSE BRANDS Source: Reynolds (2013, p. 1) It can be observed that Innocent Drinks recorded the highest percentage increase in the group, thus showing a strong growth potential. However, it should also be noted that Innocent is a relatively new company and is also is a rapid growth phase. It may therefore be somewhat challenging to maintain such high growth levels over time. 5. An Analysis Of Innocent Drinks’ Organisational Culture A number of studies have revealed that there is a significant relationship between an organisation’s culture and certain aspects of its performance (Kotter and Heskett, 1992; Rashid, Sabasivan and Johari, 2003). According to Kotter and Heskett (1992), organisations with cultures where emphasis was on leadership at all levels and key managerial constituencies (i.e. employees, customers and shareholders) performed considerably better than companies who did not have such cultural traits (the former experienced a 682% revenue increase on average over a period of 11 years, while the latter experienced 166%). It is therefore important to consider the culture of a company when evaluating its performance. In order to evaluate Innocent Drinks’ organisational culture, Deal and Kennedy’s (1999) typology of corporate cultures shall be used. Deal and Kennedy (1999) outlined four main categories of company cultures based on the degree of risk involved in the activities of the organisation, and the speed at which the organisation and employees obtain feedback regarding the success of their strategies/ventures. They note that these two factors have an impact on the development of cultural elements in an organisation and how these influence the company’s employees. The four categories are: the process culture, bet-your-company culture, work-hard/play-hard culture and tough-guy/macho culture (Deal and Kennedy, 1999; Mullins, 2010). Figure 1 below illustrates these categories: Source: Revenaugh (1994, p. 20) The process culture is characterised by low risk and slow feedback, and this leads employees to focus on how they do things (i.e. the process), rather than what they actually do. Although quite bureaucratic, it can actually be effective when order and predictability is needed (Mullins, 2010). The bet-your-company culture is characterised by high risk and low feedback. In such organisations, due to the nature of the feedback, it can take a long time before the success or failure of decisions becomes apparent. Examples of companies with such cultures are oil companies and investment banks. The tough-guy, macho culture is one which is characterised by high risk, quick feedback regarding actions taken, high financial stakes, and intense pressure and speed. Examples of such organisations with this type of culture include police departments, hospitals and the entertainment industry (Deal and Kennedy, 1999; Mullins, 2010). The work-hard, play-hard culture is few risks, quick feedback and fun and action. In such a culture, there is a â€Å"high level of relatively low risk activity† (Mullins, 2010, p. 741). Deal and Kennedy (1999) point out that a considerable number of sales-driven organisations have this culture. Such organisations are highly dynamic, customer-focused, and place a high emphasis on team work, as it is the team that produces the volume (Deal and Kennedy, 1999; Mullins, 2010). It is important to note though that not all companies will fall strictly into these four categories, and some may be characterised by a blend of more than one, such as banks for instance. Nevertheless, it still provides a useful guide for understanding the culture of an organisation, and taking steps to maximise the benefits of such a culture, as well as handle the challenges such a culture poses. Having briefly described these four categories and based on the information available on Innocent Drinks, the company can be said to have a work-hard, play-hard culture. While it is characterised by a high level of activity, much of it is low risk. It is also sales-driven, has a strong team culture, and a fun, informal approach to carrying out its activities and relating with the public (Innocent Drinks, 2014a). However, a key challenge of this type of culture is that employees can possibly rely on the good performance of a team to hide weak personal performance. Another challenge is that a focus on volume can have a negative impact on quality (Mullins, 2010). Innocent Drinks has consequently been accused of making misleading claims regarding its environmental and ethical credentials (Phelvin and Wallop, 2008). Phelvin and Wallop (2008) reported that while Innocent Drinks leads its customers to believe that it imports the fruit and then makes the drinks in the UK, and that its fruit is always transported by by road or rail because this uses less fossil fuel than air/road transport. This is not the case, as the drinks are actually made elsewhere in Europe, and transported in lorries to the UK for bottling. Innocent Drinks however argued that the company had not deliberately attempted to mislead customers, but had simply stopped publicising where its drinks were made since it moved its production abroad, and had failed to update this information on their web page. 6. Recommendations And Conclusion Having carried out these analyses of Innocent Drinks from various aspects, this section shall use the results of these analyses to offer recommendations to Innocent Drinks. Subsequently, conclusions shall be drawn. From the SWOT analysis, it can be seen that Innocent Drinks needs to work on changing their sourcing strategies, particularly from areas affected by such adverse weather conditions. Innocent Drinks could also work with its suppliers to carry out certain farm practices that will minimise the impact of these conditions such as reforestation, mulching techniques, shade management, improved drainage systems etc. (Barron, 2009). Innocent Drinks’ partnership with Coca-Cola was a good strategy, considering the competition it faced from PepsiCo and the need for enhanced marketing in order to boost its brand visibility and market share. It is nevertheless important that it preserves its key values which have endeared it to customers, and also maintains its reputation as an ethical, environmentally friendly, social brand. This issue of Innocent Drinks maintaining its brand values has been a particular concern for customers following its takeover by Coca-Cola (Cohen, 2011; Macalister and Teather, 2010). As such, efforts need to be made to convince their stakeholders that they will remain loyal to their values. Based on the analysis of Innocent Drinks’ culture, it can be observed that there is a need to pay attention to not just team performance, but the performance of individuals as well. This can be done by ensuring that team leaders allocate specific tasks to various members of the team and hold them responsible for each of these tasks. Furthermore, in reports on the team’s activities, the contribution of each individual member can also be highlighted, in order to avoid social loafing. There also needs to be an increased emphasis on transparency. This is because the discovery that Innocent Drinks is not doing what it claims to be doing can lead to feelings of distrust from customers and other relevant stakeholders. As such, it is necessary to keep the information open to the public on their websites or other similar places up-to-date, and ensure that efforts are made to do what the company claims it will do. It should also aim to effectively address the accusations that its smoothies are high in calories/sugar and are not necessarily as healthy as they are purported to be, due to the processing methods used. Innocent Drinks can also look into the possibility of expanding into other continents such as Asia and Africa, in order to negate the effects of possible adverse market conditions in Europe. However, a comprehensive cost-benefit analysis would need to be done first, in order to determine how feasible this would be. In conclusion, it can be observed that Innocent Drinks has considerable potential to grow and be a market leader in the industry. However, there are a number of weaknesses and threats which need to be managed and possibly overcome. The recommendations outlined above, while not exhaustive, can serve as a guide for Innocent Drinks decision makers and could potentially enhance its customer base, market position and its overall profitability. References Andersen, E. (2012). Innocent Drinks founder: Exporting pushed us into the red.Management Today, 26th October 2012. Available at http://www.managementtoday.co.uk/news/1156817/Innocent-Drinks-founder-Exporting-pushed-us-red/ > Retrieved 28th October 2014. Bainbridge, J. (2013). Sector Insight (Interactive): Fruit juice, juice drinks and smoothies.Marketing Magazine, 14th March, 2013 [Online]. Available at Retrieved 28th October 2014. Barron, V. (2009). Climate Change Impacts on Business: A case study of Innocent Drinks and their top fruits. Available at Retrieved 28th October 2014. Briggs, H. (2014). Fruit and veg: More than five-a-day ‘no effect’. BBC, 30 July, 2014 [Online]. Available at Retrieved 28th October 2014. Cohen, T. (2011) Innocent accused over charity ‘con’.Daily Mail, 27 May 2011. Available at http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1391521/Innocent-Smoothie-maker-defends-handing-520-000-charity-cash-2008.html > Retrieved 28th October 2014. Deal, T.E. and Kennedy, A.A. (1999)The new corporate cultures. Cambridge, MA: Basic Books Gubbay (2011). Brains behind famous smoothie company shares his Innocent approach to business. Available at http://www3.imperial.ac.uk/newsandeventspggrp/imperialcollege/businessschool/newssummary/news_20-6-2011-17-54-53 > Retrieved 28th October 2014. Hodgekiss, A. (2013) The 15 WORST sugary drinks in Britain.Daily Mail, 30 March 2013 [Online]. Available at Retrieved 28th October 2014. Innocent Drinks (2007) Our brand new 100% recycled plastic bottles. Available at Retrieved 28th October 2014. Innocent Drinks (2014a). Our story. Available at http://www.innocentdrinks.co.uk/us/our-story> Retrieved 28th October 2014. Innocent Drinks (2014b). Things we make. Available at http://www.innocentdrinks.co.uk/things-we-make> Retrieved 28th October 2014. Innocent Drinks (2014c). The innocent promise. Available at Retrieved 28th October 2014. Innocent Drinks (2014d). Our purpose, Our values. Available at http://www.innocentdrinks.co.uk/us/careers> Retrieved 28th October 2014. Innocent Drinks (2014e). Awards we have won. Available at . Retrieved 28th October 2014. Innocent Drinks (2014f). Being sustainable. Available at Retrieved 28th October 2014. Johnson, G., Whittington, R. and Scholes, K. (2012)Fundamentals of Strategy. Second edition. Essex: Pearson Education Limited Kotter, J.P. and Heskett, J.L. (1992)Corporate Culture and Performance. New York: The Free Press Levy, A. (2011) Feel the squeeze: Smoothie sales down a third as they are ‘too expensive’ for credit-crunched Brits.Daily Mail, 1st November 2011 [Online]. Available at http://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-2055681/Smoothie-sales-theyre-expensive-credit-crunch-Brits.html > Retrieved 28th October 2014. Macalister, T. and Teather, D. (2010) Innocent smoothie denies sell-out after Coca-Cola gets majority stake.The Guardian, 9 April 2010 [Online]. Available at http://www.theguardian.com/business/2010/apr/09/coca-cola-innocent-smoothie-stake > Retrieved 28th October 2014. Markley, M. J., and Davis, L. (2007). Exploring future competitive advantage through sustainable supply chains.International Journal of Physical Distribution Logistics Management,37(9), 763-774 Mintel (2010) Smoothies –UK. Available at Retrieved 28th October 2014. Mullins, L.J. (2010).Management and Organisational Behaviour. 9th Edition. Harlow: Prentice Hall Neate, R. (2013). Coca-Cola takes full control of Innocent.The Guardian, 22nd February, 2013 [Online]. Available at < http://www.theguardian.com/business/2013/feb/22/coca-cola-full-control-innocent> Retrieved 28th October 2014. O’Reilly, L. (2014). Innocent launces ‘super smoothie’ range.Marketing Week, 10th March, 2014. Available at < http://www.marketingweek.com/2014/03/10/innocent-launches-super-smoothie-range/> Retrieved 28th October 2014. PepsiCo (n.d.). New Tropicana Smoothies will boost 5-a-day efforts. Available at < http://www.pepsico.co.uk/our-company/media-centre/news-and-comment/new-tropicana-smoothies-will-boost-5-a-day-efforts>. Retrieved 28th October 2014. Phelvin, P. and Wallop, H. (2008). Innocent Smoothies accused over environmental marketing.The Telegraph, 1st August 2008 [Online]. Available at Retrieved 28th October 2014. Rashid, M. Z. A., Sambasivan, M., Johari, J. (2003). The influence of corporate culture and organisational commitment on performance.Journal of Management Development,22(8), 708-728 Revenaugh, D. L. (1994). Business process re-engineering: the unavoidable challenge.Management Decision,32(7), 16-27 Reynolds, J. (2013). Innocent sales rocket over 35%, says Britvic Soft Drinks Report. Available at . Retrieved 28th October 2014. Rubin, C. (2010) Building England’s Ethical, Healthy and Slightly Cheeky Beverage Brand. Inc., July 2010. Available at http://www.inc.com/articles/2010/07/building-englands-favorite-smoothie-company.html > Retrieved 28th October 2014. Sibun, J. (2008). Not such a smooth ride for Innocent.The Telegraph, 2nd August 2008 [Online]. Available at http://www.telegraph.co.uk/finance/newsbysector/retailandconsumer/2794173/Not-such-a-smooth-ride-for-Innocent.html > Retrieved 28th October 2014. The Food and Drink Innovation Network (FDIN) Comment on Coca-Cola’s Purchase of Innocent. Available at http://www.fdin.org.uk/2010/04/comment-on-coca-colas-purchase-of-innocent/ > Retrieved 28th October 2014. The Telegraph (2009). Smoothies count as two of five fruit and veg per day. The Telegraph, 16th September 2009 [Online]. Available at http://www.telegraph.co.uk/foodanddrink/foodanddrinknews/6197202/Smoothies-count-as-two-of-five-fruit-and-veg-per-day.html > Retrieved 28th October 2014.

A Doctor In The House Essay -- essays research papers

A Doctor in the House Henrik Ibsen's character, Dr. Rank, in "A Doll's House" is an important component of the play, though he is not a lead character. Rank enhances the story in his own right as a character, but mainly serves a greater purpose as an accentuation of Nora'a character. Nora's relationship with Rank is equal, and perhaps it implants in Nora's mind the idea that relationships should be equal. Their relationship brings up questions about social correctness and even the values necessary in a marriage. Essentially, Dr. Rank's purpose is to refine the audience's understanding of Nora's character. Dr. Rank's presence establishes the lack of communication between Nora and her husband. Nora confides in Dr. Rank, involving him in secrets and everyday conversation. For instance, Rank is the first character to be let in on Nora's secret plan to take Helmer on a "vacation," supposedly paid for by her father. Also, Rank refers to Christine Linde as "a name I have often heard in this house," when Helmer is virtually unaware of Linde's existence (Ibsen 542). The quote further indicates Rank and Nora share things in which Helmer is not included. Rank is like a messenger for the couple on one occasion when Nora finds out about Helmer's new job from the doctor. Nora asks Rank, "Tell me Dr. Rank--will everyone who works at the bank come under Torvald now?" (542). These conversations help to conclude that most of Nora's meaningful and informative conversation is not with her own husband. Furthermore, the doctor encourages Nora to confide in him; "You can say it to us†¦say it, here he is," says Rank, urging Nora to do as she wishes around him (542). Nora seems to divulge her thoughts to Rank and not Helmer, relaying an inward struggle in Nora to do as she wishes. She lies to Helmer about the macaroons, but hastily reveals her hidden snack to the doctor. Rank and Nora's relationship shows Nora's longing for independence from Helmer and society's rules. Even Mrs. Linde, a relatively liberated woman, feels Nora's intimate relationship with the doctor is curiously inappropriate. Linde is shocked that Nora would speak with Rank about the debt behind Helmer's back, to which Nora replies, "I've got to get out of this other busine... ...ra's father, and then subsequently, how they see Nora. Ibsen makes the hereditary flaws available in Rank in order to make the theme clear. While Rank's flaws end with his death, Nora's bad traits threaten to rub-off on her children, continuing the line of bad heredity. According to Helmer, Rank's dark life "accentuates the light of their marriage," but the importance of the character, Dr. Rank, is to accentuate the darkness of Nora's life. Rank's life parallels Nora's situation until the role reversal at the end. Throughout the play, both suffer the consequences of morally corrupt fathers; Nora has her secret debt and Rank with his illness. Rank's announcement of death also marks the end of the masquerade, literally and figuratively speaking: Nora's masquerade of a content marriage is over as well as the ball that are her last moments of "fun." Instead of dying when Rank dies, however, Nora is reborn as an independent woman in society. Her situation may again parallel Rank's; there is uncertainty associated with death as there is definite uncertainty as to Nora's fate.

Communication Institutionnelle

Strategic management  : Etude de cas 1- SWOT SWOT Apple  : Strenghts  : – Good reputation among consumers always with innovative products (ipod: the first portable music player) – A high turnover and the company is quoted on stock – They have their own operating system (Linux) – Customer loyalty to the brand it create a community among users of Apple – An operating system more intuitive than Microsoft. Weaknesses: – Steeve Job’s death destabilized the brand – Product prices are higher than other competitors' products – Lack of flexibility (you can’t install freeware) Opportunities: – Young children are using more and more products such as Iphone, Iphone to play. – Gap between prices of iphone and android who is closing. Threats: – The androids are developing their own applications (andoid market) – Arrival of computers with batteries that have autonomy from 9am (DELL) – Tablet PC are becoming more accessible (price) with competition SWOT Samsung  : Strenghts: – Highly technical and developed products – Create their operating system for mobile phone (Bada system) – Quick adaptation to competitors' innovations Several sector are covered (tv, laptop, computer †¦ ) if loss of money, it’s offset by other sectors – Reputation of the brand = high-tech Weaknesses: – Several sectors covered brand catchall – Creating products from the competition forger – The operating system Bada is new it is not led bugs, lack of applications†¦ Opportunities: – G rowing on Indian market – Positive brand in terms of consumers = quality Threats: – Increase in prices of raw material – Strong competition on the various markets covered by samsung. 2- Which generic strategy  : About the generic strategy, Apple applies the broad differentiation strategy. Indeed, Apple differentiates with his high quality products, the service that they propose (Apple community) has if they products are realized for the best. The generic strategy of Samsung is more popular. Even if it’s a really technical brand, they play on the cost of the product. They don’t change the quality of the product but they only try to reduce the cost of production. So, it’s a cost leadership strategy that’s using at Samsung Corp. 3- Analyse strategy Apple has an international reputation in the field of high-tech with innovation, and esthetics of its products. With this reputation the company can afford to implement higher price than competitors. Those prices select customers and therefore reduce the target brand. Apple makes its products in front with original advertising campaigns, and sells a preview creating an enthusiasm that the consumer side and therefore a large increase in sales (600 000 iphone4 sold the first day of sale). Samsung operates on the appearance of cheaper products while keeping product uality. This strategy is possible inspired by the technologies of competitors and produced at lower cost. Also the fact that Samsung produce several kind of high-tech products, avoids large losses of money if failure. 4- Suggestions/recommandations based on analysis of strategy Samsung should develop its own designs and technologies so that flakes of the forger image with consumers. Apple, however, with more elitist strategy should democratize its prices on some products to make its product more accessible to smaller budgets.

buy custom How to Start a Business essay

buy custom How to Start a Business essay One of the best known entrepreneurs, investors and business coaches, Kiyosaki, in his book Rich Dad Poor Dad (2002), wrote, "Business is like a wheel barrow, nothing ever happens until you start pushing" (p. 84). The truth is that most people are afraid to take the risk of starting their own business; it is safer for them to find a job and to work for the established wage, social guarantees and insurance policy the whole life. But if you decided to take a chance and to start a business, do not hesitate and do not be afraid of failures, because they are an important part of the future success. The steps below may help in the start-up. Part-time business means any kind of activity that one can do after the main work and that brings profit. It can be anything, from Internet trade to pet sitting and walking. If it is a unique business idea of your own, you have to protect its intellectual property. Franchise and ready business are both good options for investments; they are already established and developed, so the risk is minimal. The second step in starting a business is writing a business plan. A good written business plan is a living outline that was born to help you to establish, develop and manage your company; it is growing up with your company and it is changing as the company is prospering. The third step is defining how the business will be financed. Depending on the size of the business, there are such sources f financing as: bank funding and business bank loans, overdrafts, credit cards, loans from friends and family, private equity or private investment, angel investment and small business grants. Limited Liability Company is a legal form of company that gives limited responsibilities to its owners. C-Corporation is a legal entity that is taxed apart from its owners. C-Corporation is a legal entity that exists separately from its shareholders and directors. A partnership is an agreement between parties to cooperate. Partnerships can be of two different types: limited partnership and general partnership. The main distinction between them is that in general partnership each member (partner) is responsible for any liability, debt or damage. In limited partnerships there is usually one responsible (general) partner who has full responsibilities on managing the company. Others are called limited partners and they do not incur liability of the day-to-day operation of the company. Sole Proprietorship is an individual who owns and runs a business. He or she is personally responsible for the business obligations. S-Corporation is much like C-Corporation. The main difference is that in S-Sorporation all income and losses are divided proportionally between the owners. The fifth step in building the business is obtaining licenses if they are needed. Better to do it before starting to work in order to eliminate the problems with the law later. The next very important step in starting a business is creation of a website. People must get know about your business and the best way to inform them is using Internet. Even before you open your first shop or agency, the website must already work. After creating a website, the decision about the shop must be made. And here you must take into consideration 4 Ps: price, product, place and promotion. Only using them all together the most success can be reached. There is no need to explain how important price and product are. Without a proper place your product cannot be sold, and without good promotion nobody will know about your product. By the way, good done website is really significant in promotion part. After the business is established and registered, the website set up and the shop opened the question about employees rises. Employees must be hired considering the size of the business, the products and the legal structure of the company. But for any business to be successful, two employees must be hired in the first place: the lawyer and the accountant. Most companies already have them in their staff even before establishing. The steps listed above are the main steps in starting the business. Do you remember the old adage: No pain, no gain? It is old, but still quite applicable in the business industry. In fact, the business is a commitment of money, time and effort. However, nothing ventured, nothing gained. Therefore, make sure you are doing the right thing to start your own business. And do not forget these four important elements: the great business plan, the proper business structure, equal attention to the 4 Ps and qualified employees. Buy custom How to Start a Business essay