...Introduction Briefly explains the strategic change initiative Executing Strategic Change provides business leaders with a global framework and powerful tools to translate a strategy set out in the action of the organization. An interactive workshop format is designed for a select group of 20 senior executives. Based on the world-renowned research and teaching in the field and the experience of a professional exchange program applies a specific blend of academic research, and executive experience to the change initiatives that participants are leaders. In addition to learning approaches to advance strategic analysis and implementation, participants learn in-depth and frankness of colleagues with expertise in their efforts to develop a comprehensive approach to the translation of strategic change initiative into action. Program becomes more confident and prepared to lead a process of implementation strategy with success from start to finish. Moreover, they leave with a common framework and a valuable network of peers for future high-level comments and advice (Lofstrom, 2007). Briefly explains the importance of the Images or Vision concepts and its application to a strategic change initiative Following are the importance of the vision concepts and its application to a strategic change initiative. The first phase of strategic planning and design includes a series of steps: the revision by the management of strategic goals (the mission), the...
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...evolution. Delaney (1998) poses the question of whether subsidiaries are “dumb sub-contractors or initiative-takers?” Historically, the literature on the topic has supported the notion that subsidiaries are subordinates of the parent company, carrying out tasks and performing functions as requested from corporate headquarters (Jarillo and Martinez, 1990). In recent years, a trend has emerged whereby subsidiaries are devising their own strategies and themselves determining the work they carry out in an attempt to add value to the overall business (Birkinshaw, 1997). A number of factors have and are shaping this evolving role of the multinational subsidiary unit. In part (b) the importance of an R&D function for subsidiary sustainability is examined along with the importance of having strong network relationships. To gain insights into the importance of these factors in the Irish context, Intel’s Irish subsidiary is used as an example. Part A Much of the research carried out on subsidiary evolution contains elements of bias as a result of a tendency of researchers from smaller countries to have a subsidiary perspective while researchers from larger countries tend to have a more corporate point of view (Brock, 2000). Studies from the corporate perspective argue that evolution is driven by the parent company, (Chang, 1995) while studies from the subsidiary side assume that subsidiary initiative is the main driver. Delaney (2000) outlined an 8-step framework for subsidiary evolution. As...
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...Leaders and Leadership in Organizations Abstract The success of an organization is dependent upon the leadership. Leadership is essential in providing vision, direction, and motivation. The purpose of this paper is to identify the importance of leadership in organizations by exploring leadership theories, styles, traits, and behaviors of effective leaders as well as challenges organizations face in developing and identifying effective leadership. Importance of Leadership Ultimately, the success and failure of an organization is dependent upon leadership. Although there are a number of factors impacting the performance of organizations, the quality of leadership remains at the key focal point. Effective leadership casts vision, provides direction, and influences organizational behavior, good or bad. Leadership academic studies agree leaders possess common qualities and attributes. Leadership styles may differ, but qualities and attributes remain consistent. The role of a leader is critical to the evolving dynamics of an organizational structure. Organizations are more aware of the role leadership has in their organization and are seeking leaders with the style, qualities and attributes needed (Yukl & Lepsinger 2008). An organizations understanding of leadership is often limited to assessing a leader’s ability to motivate others to go beyond what is expected, benefiting from subordinates full potential efforts. Influencing the group of an organization...
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...Gilbert MKT 421 May 8, 2012 L. Denise Lozano Abstract This paper is a discussion of Kudler Fine Foods and the importance of marketing research in relation to the organizations marketing strategy and tactics. The paper will identify areas where additional market research is needed, and analyze the importance of competitive intelligence and analysis regarding the development of Kudler Fine Foods’ marketing strategy and tactics. Kudler Fine Foods Kudler Fine Foods is located in San Diego, and is a local upscale specialty food store. Kudler provides products and services at three locations (La Jolla, Del Mar, and Encinitas). These stores are located in fashionable shopping outlets with the stores occupying about 8,000 square feet of sales space. Kudler offers a variety of domestic and imported products at each location. Product variety includes: Baker and Pastry Products, Fresh Produce, Fresh Meat and Seafood, Condiments and Packaged Foods, and Cheese and Specialty Dairy Products. Kathy Kudler is the founder of Kudler Fine Foods. Kathy opened her first store in 1998 and was followed by two additional store openings in 2000 and 2003 (University of Phoenix, 2011). Strategic Objective Kudler Fine Foods strategic objective is to increase loyalty and profitability of their consumer. The objective is to be achieved through three initiatives. These initiatives include: expanded services, a frequent shopper program, and increased efficiency. Expanded services and a frequent...
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...(CRISSPE), Strathclyde Institute for Operations Management, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, UK Abstract Purpose – The last two decades have witnessed an explosion of research into the area of quality initiatives (QI) such as ISO, total quality management, lean, Kaizen and its application within small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). However, very few empirical studies have reported the application of Six Sigma in SMEs; the reasons may be attributed to several myths associated with Six Sigma. The purpose of this paper is to assess the current status of QI in the UK manufacturing SMEs and report the differences in the quality management practices of Six Sigma SMEs against the ISO certified firms. Design/methodology/approach – A survey-based approach was adopted to understand the established quality management practices in the UK SMEs. A short survey instrument was designed by reviewing the literature on quality improvement initiatives in SMEs. A sample of 500 manufacturing SMEs across UK was selected through stratified random sampling technique. Findings – A response rate of 12.7 per cent was achieved and included respondents at senior management and middle management level across the manufacturing industry in the UK. Data analysis on the history of quality initiatives (QI) in SMEs indicated towards the trend that ISO may be the foundation or building block before embarking on lean or Six Sigma. Differences in quality...
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...BAXTER HEALTHCARE CORPORATION Work & Life Strategic Initiative What is the initiative? Baxter’s Work & Life Strategic Initiative formally began with an 18-month extensive employee-needs assessment that provided a far better understanding of how the company could benefit by championing greater work-life balance for all its employees—for women as well as men. Baxter has succeeded at integrating its business case for worklife balance into a new corporate culture that is supported from the top down, demonstrated by strong CEO commitment and role modeling. A major result of this strategic assessment has been that Baxter redefined and expanded the work-life experience to encompass more categories of conflicts experienced by employees. Baxter, in conjunction with MK Consultants, developed the four-level The Work and Life Pyramid of Needs, which rests on a base of Respect (the company’s attitude toward the employee’s needs) and rises through Balance (the employee’s goal) to Flexibility (what the company wants to help the employee attain) to Programs (the supports that the company provides). The study refocused Baxter’s strategy, giving increased importance to and emphasis on respect for the “whole” person, including his or her responsibilities and interests outside of work. The initiative has since added work-life to Baxter’s shared values, employee satisfaction tools, performance standards, and other existing HR initiatives. In addition, the study’s findings added...
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...1999 BAXTER HEALTHCARE CORPORATION Work & Life Strategic Initiative What is the initiative? Baxter’s Work & Life Strategic Initiative formally began with an 18-month extensive employee-needs assessment that provided a far better understanding of how the company could benefit by championing greater work-life balance for all its employees—for women as well as men. Baxter has succeeded at integrating its business case for worklife balance into a new corporate culture that is supported from the top down, demonstrated by strong CEO commitment and role modeling. A major result of this strategic assessment has been that Baxter redefined and expanded the work-life experience to encompass more categories of conflicts experienced by employees. Baxter, in conjunction with MK Consultants, developed the four-level The Work and Life Pyramid of Needs, which rests on a base of Respect (the company’s attitude toward the employee’s needs) and rises through Balance (the employee’s goal) to Flexibility (what the company wants to help the employee attain) to Programs (the supports that the company provides). The study refocused Baxter’s strategy, giving increased importance to and emphasis on respect for the “whole” person, including his or her responsibilities and interests outside of work. The initiative has since added work-life to Baxter’s shared values, employee satisfaction tools, performance standards, and other existing HR initiatives. In addition, the study’s findings added up to a...
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...Subsidiaries’ role and contribution in the creation of new firm-‐specific advantages (FSAs) Carlotta Assetta – Student Number: 11112980 ABSTRACT This paper attempts to more precisely delineate the MNEs subsidiaries’ role and contribution to new firm-‐specific advantages development. I present a new framework, which ranks foreign subsidiaries contribution to FSAs creation according to two criteria: Subsidiary’s embeddedness in the host-‐country environment and strategic importance of the local environment. ...
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...Strategic Plan Internal dynamics along with cultural and structural leadership considerations The internal dynamics along with cultural and structural leadership considerations that should be used in implementing business strategy for Riordan is readiness of employees in terms of supporting the new strategic initiatives. Employees should not only be committed towards the implementation of the plan, but should possess extensive knowledge and training and new strategic initiatives. Hence, it is extremely important that Riordan should ensure extensive training for the employees to understand the importance, benefits and know-how to handle the new processes, initiatives and strategic action plan in the organization. It is also important that the existing processes, systems and infrastructure should support the new strategic initiatives in the organization. It is important for Riordan to invest in necessary upgrading of infrastructure and restructuring of processes and systems to support the new business strategies. From a cultural perspective, it is important that Riordan's leadership and management should foster a culture that empowers Riordan's employees to work in a supportive, flexible work environment with adequate decision making authority. The culture of Riordan should be such that employees feel motivated to contribute towards the growth and new initiatives of the organization and remain loyal and committed towards the organization. To develop the quality culture and...
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...Week 9 Assignment 3: Cybersecurity The National Initiative for Cyber Security Education Initiative. Released in 2009, the Cyberspace Policy Review: Assuring a Trusted and Resilient Information and Communications Infrastructure acknowledged the need for cybersecurity public awareness and an advanced cybersecurity workforce. To address these needs, the Comprehensive National Cybersecurity Initiative (CNCI) developed 11 initiatives to help secure the United States in cyberspace. The National Initiative for Cybersecurity Education (NICE) was established to lead the work on the goals outlined in Initiative 8, which addresses the Nation’s cybersecurity needs related to public awareness, education, professional development, and talent management. (McDuffie, 2009) In the past 20 years, the innovative use of cyberspace has transformed the day-to-day operations of the Nation. These advances have enhanced the lives of individuals, business, and government in profound ways. From eCommerce, to mobile communications and complex networked systems, the rapidly growing dependence on cyberspace is evident. In the years to come, the Nation’s dependence on cyberspace will only increase as technology advances and will further integrate into our daily lives. Great advances in technology comes with great risks. The Cyberspace Policy Review identified vulnerabilities in cybersecurity as systemic risks introduced into infrastructure, defense, and personal property due to the widespread adoption...
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...layoffs unlike anything we have seen in over eighty years, information technology is taking on new roles in the business world. CIO's are relying more heavily on IT in order to reduce operating costs, increase productivity and give their companies a competitive edge. Historically viewed as an expense and liability, IT is now being thought of as strategic business enabler. Management of IT and the associated strategy, funding and security are top of mind for many in today's challenging environment. Executives are under more pressure than ever to maximize return on their technology investments. However, our research has revealed that there are several key concerns that appear to be trending throughout corporations as they determine the exact roles IT should play. READINGS Members of the group read several chapters from the textbook, Information Technology for Management: Improving Performance in the Digital Economy (Turban and Volonino, 7th Edition), as well as numerous articles on various information technology subjects. A topic which received a significant amount of attention throughout our readings is the importance of aligning IT strategies with the business priorities of the company, and how this is critical to the success of an organization. An important component of this alignment is ensuring that the IT division in involved in the development of business strategies. A company’s business strategy is basically the overall direction or plan of the business...
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...Inditex’s Growth and sales had expanded beyond Spain and Europe at large. Though Inditex had undertaken CSR Initiatives before, most of the Initiatives were a knee-Jerk reaction at best. As Inditex expanded globally, it was grappling with close to 1800 External Suppliers, with little or no oversight/control over the working condition of the people under these many suppliers. Being a global player in retail now, it was imperative to come up with a CSR Initiative which was interwoven with the Company’s Corporate Policy. This Served 2 purposes: 1. As a profit making Organisation the initiatives undertaken to improve labour, hygiene,health and social condition would make the Supplier and the supply chain seamless and in the long run delivery tangible benefits(translates to lower cost and better quality of work force and hence the supplier can deliver better value) 2. These CSR Initiatives also would deliver Intangible Benefits in the form of extended cooperation from the local community, enhanced Corporate Image among stake holders, support from the local government and better brand value from well informed customers of Inditex. According to Porter, Four major justifications for CSR initiatives are: • Moral Obligation • Reputation Out-in Linkages • License to Operate • Sustainability Inside-out Linkages Strategic Importance of Morocco (Tangier) to Inditex: 1. Tangier was very important to Inditex since almost all of Morocco’s...
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...Strategic Initiative Paper – Target FIN/370 Strategic Initiative In general, the Target Corporation’s overall strategic plan is to improve the relevance and reliability of its customer experience across multiple channels (in-store, online, mobile and social media), as well as preserve, grow and leverage the Target name and maintain a reputation of satisfying customer needs. Consistent with the overall strategy, Target Corporations plan for 2013, involved a number of strategic initiatives to improve long long-term growth. Included in the initiatives is investments in technology, the opening of 17 new stores, the expansion of store base facilitates to effectively penetrate into its target markets to gain a competitive advantage over its competitors. While looking at expansion opportunities in international markets such as Canada and Latin America through the use of smaller-format stores called City Target. (Target's Strategic Initiatives, 2013). The focus of this paper will be Target Corporations technology initiative. Technology Strategic Planning Initiative As noted above, Target Corp. 2013 annual report discusses several strategic initiatives one of which relates to technology. Target Corp. relies on a computer system to manage inventory, process guest transactions, manage guest data, communicate with vendors and other third parties, service REDcard accounts and summarize and analyze results of operations ("Target Corporation" 2013). Target Corp. business...
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...enact initiatives to address community issues. Such is the case for the New Belgium Brewing Company (NBB), which has gone to great lengths to incorporate environmentally sensitive and energy-saving alternatives into its brewery process. For example, it was the first brewery in America to be completely wind powered, and its brewery is LEED certified. The company is constantly experimenting with ways to reduce water consumption and waste, and to recycle a greater proportion of waste products. Currently, the company recycles around three-quarters of all of its waste. The brewery even donates barley and hop mash leftover from the brewing process to local pig farmers to use as feed. NBB has developed an organic wheat beer, making it one of the largest craft brewers in the country to do so. Beyond its commitment to the environment, New Belgium Brewing has become a model for social responsibility as a result of its philanthropic efforts in the states in which it is distributed. For example, for every barrel of beer sold, NBB donates $1 to a philanthropic cause within that state, amounting to nearly a half a million dollars annually. NBB also donates 1 percent of its profits to environmental causes. Because its primary product is beer, New Belgium focuses a lot of efforts on education about alcohol abuse and encouraging responsible consumption. Discussion 1. What environmental issues does the New Belgium Brewing Company work to address? How has NBB taken a strategic approach...
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...market. Performing an environmental scanning and SWOT Analysis is vital to an organization’s success. SWOT Analysis A) give a detailed assessment of the opportunities, trends, and consumer existing in their market environment. B) Establishes an awareness of their markets environment so that their company can increase the strategic planning and decision-making process. (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, n.d.). C) Establish the internal resources needed to achieve their organizational goals and objectives. D) Establish the vision and strengths to identify the companies’ strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. (CPS Human Resource Services, 2007). To show the importance of environmental scanning and the competitive advantages that could arrive from using this assessment tool, this paper will conduct an environmental scan on Nike Inc., and A.O. Smith Water Products Company. The environmental scans of these corporations will a) examine how Nike Inc. and A.O Water Products Company create value and sustain their competitive advantage through business strategy. B) Analyze the measurement guidelines that both companies use to verify their strategic effectiveness. C) Examine the effectiveness of both companies measurements guidelines. In addition to the previous listed topics, this paper will...
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