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Thesis On Nascent Entrepreneurship

Thesis on Nascent Entrepreneurship

Stephen Schmolling

Thesis on Nascent Entrepreneurship

The study conducted by Yoon analysed the influence of characteristics of an entrepreneurial team as they impact entrepreneurial orientation (EO). According to past literature, the factors of EO were ruled based on the performance factors of entrepreneurial orientation. However, this research studies the influence of the social and human capital of an entrepreneur, in addition to the optimistic impact of leading talents and the potential effect of practical diversity. 1,228 samples of Korean business ventures were analysed which determined that EO depends on characteristics of the entrepreneurial team including social and human capital, and presence of leading marketing talents. However, the additional analysis of subgroups revealed that these constructive impacts of characteristics of an entrepreneurial team are substantial for the ‘founders stay’ sample. On the other hand, positive effects of diversity of an entrepreneurial team and leading marketing talent play a significant role for ‘founders left’ sample. This research, in general, validates Covin and Slevin’s theoretical EO model which is critiqued by Zahra. These findings extend Sciascia’s model which is based on the role of CEO, motivated environments, coalition development, and marketing orientation. This establishes the fact that understanding, devotion, and the mutual contribution from leading talents can impact EO ADDIN ZOTERO_ITEM CSL_CITATION {"citationID":"UyRThY0x","properties":{"formattedCitation":"\\super 1\\nosupersub{}","plainCitation":"1","noteIndex":0},"citationItems":[{"id":761,"uris":["http://zotero.org/users/local/YgsdZK9k/items/RFM5EJH5"],"uri":["http://zotero.org/users/local/YgsdZK9k/items/RFM5EJH5"],"itemData":{"id":761,"type":"article-journal","container-title":"SAGE Open","DOI":"10.1177/2158244018777025","ISSN":"2158-2440, 2158-2440","issue":"2","journalAbbreviation":"SAGE Open","language":"en","page":"215824401877702","source":"DOI.org (Crossref)","title":"Exploring the Role of Entrepreneurial Team Characteristics on Entrepreneurial Orientation","volume":"8","author":[{"family":"Yoon","given":"Hyunjoong"}],"issued":{"date-parts":[["2018",4]]}}}],"schema":"https://github.com/citation-style-language/schema/raw/master/csl-citation.json"} 1.

In this regard, Vyakarnam and Handelberg conducted detailed research concerning leading management teams and their impact on new business ventures. Their research unifies the accrued research based on the leading teams of management with broad literature on small teams and enhances the literature on management teams of nascent enterprises. They have proposed four major themes including capitals, organizational and process impacts of teams, and the effects of individual integration of members into task process and task leadership. The intricate process of team development from several conceptual views is emphasized by these themes. Moreover, these themes also identify the jeopardy of generalization in studies based on a single-variable, which may focus on the recognized and assessable problems, but neglect the unseen issues. The study suggests the future researchers consider the issues and conduct extensive research approaches including contextual sampling and longitudinal qualitative studies ADDIN ZOTERO_ITEM CSL_CITATION {"citationID":"cQOJhjo8","properties":{"formattedCitation":"\\super 2\\nosupersub{}","plainCitation":"2","noteIndex":0},"citationItems":[{"id":763,"uris":["http://zotero.org/users/local/YgsdZK9k/items/S5VSQ7DE"],"uri":["http://zotero.org/users/local/YgsdZK9k/items/S5VSQ7DE"],"itemData":{"id":763,"type":"article-journal","container-title":"International Small Business Journal: Researching Entrepreneurship","DOI":"10.1177/0266242605052072","ISSN":"0266-2426, 1741-2870","issue":"3","journalAbbreviation":"International Small Business Journal","language":"en","page":"236-256","source":"DOI.org (Crossref)","title":"Four Themes of the Impact of Management Teams on Organizational Performance: Implications for Future Research of Entrepreneurial Teams","title-short":"Four Themes of the Impact of Management Teams on Organizational Performance","volume":"23","author":[{"family":"Vyakarnam","given":"Shailendra"},{"family":"Handelberg","given":"Jari"}],"issued":{"date-parts":[["2005",6]]}}}],"schema":"https://github.com/citation-style-language/schema/raw/master/csl-citation.json"} 2.

Bibliography

ADDIN ZOTERO_BIBL {"uncited":[],"omitted":[],"custom":[]} CSL_BIBLIOGRAPHY 1. Yoon H. Exploring the Role of Entrepreneurial Team Characteristics on Entrepreneurial Orientation. SAGE Open. 2018;8(2):215824401877702. doi:10.1177/2158244018777025

2. Vyakarnam S, Handelberg J. Four Themes of the Impact of Management Teams on Organizational Performance: Implications for Future Research of Entrepreneurial Teams. International Small Business Journal. 2005;23(3):236-256. doi:10.1177/0266242605052072

Subject: Business and Management

Pages: 1 Words: 300

Thesis Proposal

A STUDY OF CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY (CSR) PRACTICES IN THE INDIAN TEXTILE INDUSTRY: A PATHWAY TO BUILDING SUSTAINABLE SUPPLY CHAIN

By

JYOTI CHAWLA

TITLE OF DEGREE

WASHINGTON STATE UNIVERSITY

Department of AMDT

DECEMBER 2018

© Copyright by JYOTI CHAWLA, 2018

To the Faculty of Washington State University:

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ACKNOWLEDGMENT

This section should be used if the author wishes to acknowledge assistance they received. Like the rest of the dissertation, this section must be left justified and double-spaced. There is no limit to the number of pages in this section.

A STUDY OF CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY (CSR) PRACTICES IN THE INDIAN TEXTILE INDUSTRY: A PATHWAY TO BUILDING SUSTAINABLE SUPPLY CHAIN

Abstract

by Your Full Name, degree abrv. (e.g., Jane Doe, M.A.)

Washington State University

Month Year (e.g., May 2017)

Chair: Committee Chair Full Name (no degree titles)

TABLE OF CONTENT

TOC \o "1-3" \h \z \u ACKNOWLEDGMENT PAGEREF _Toc536200200 \h III

ABSTRACT PAGEREF _Toc536200201 \h IV

LIST OF FIGURES PAGEREF _Toc536200202 \h VII

CHAPTER ONE: INTRODUCTION PAGEREF _Toc536200203 \h 1

BACKGROUND PAGEREF _Toc536200204 \h 1

RATIONALE PAGEREF _Toc536200205 \h 3

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY PAGEREF _Toc536200206 \h 5

POTENTIAL CONTRIBUTIONS TO ACADEMICS AND INDUSTRY PAGEREF _Toc536200207 \h 6

CHAPTER 2: LITERATURE REVIEW PAGEREF _Toc536200208 \h 7

CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY (CSR) PAGEREF _Toc536200209 \h 7

CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY IN INDIA PAGEREF _Toc536200210 \h 10

CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY IN THE INDIAN TEXTILE INDUSTRY PAGEREF _Toc536200211 \h 13

DRIVERS OF CSR IN THE INDIAN TEXTILE INDUSTRY PAGEREF _Toc536200212 \h 17

CUSTOMERS PAGEREF _Toc536200213 \h 17

EMPLOYEES PAGEREF _Toc536200214 \h 19

ENVIRONMENT PAGEREF _Toc536200215 \h 20

COMMUNITY PAGEREF _Toc536200216 \h 21

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE (SHAREHOLDERS) PAGEREF _Toc536200217 \h 23

THE GOVERNMENT PAGEREF _Toc536200218 \h 25

INTERNATIONAL BUYERS PAGEREF _Toc536200219 \h 27

COMPETITIVE/INTERNAL ORGANIZATIONAL DRIVERS FOR CSR PAGEREF _Toc536200220 \h 28

INHIBITORS/BARRIERS TO CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY IN THE INDIAN TEXTILE INDUSTRY PAGEREF _Toc536200221 \h 30

LACK OF CONSUMER AWARENESS PAGEREF _Toc536200222 \h 30

COMPANY HUMAN RESOURCES (LACK OF TRAINING) PAGEREF _Toc536200223 \h 32

FINANCIAL CONSTRAINTS PAGEREF _Toc536200224 \h 34

REGULATION AND STANDARDS PAGEREF _Toc536200225 \h 36

CHAPTER 3: METHODOLOGY PAGEREF _Toc536200226 \h 38

RESEARCH METHODS PAGEREF _Toc536200227 \h 38

JUSTIFICATION FOR THE CHOSEN METHOD PAGEREF _Toc536200228 \h 39

INTERVIEWS PAGEREF _Toc536200229 \h 40

THE RESPONDENTS PAGEREF _Toc536200230 \h 41

REFERENCES PAGEREF _Toc536200231 \h 45

LIST OF FIGURES

Page

Figure SEQ Figure \* ARABIC 1: Carroll’s Pyramid of Corporate Social Responsibility (Carroll, 1991)……..……..8

Dedication

Insert your dedication here.

In the style of Sandra Boynton,

for Mary and Kelly and Maria,

but not Debbie.

CHAPTER ONE: INTRODUCTION

Background

Corporate social responsibility (CSR) is defined as a business approach contributing to sustainable development by delivering social, economic and environmental benefits for all stakeholders (Allouche, 2006). The concept of CSR has been gradually accepted and promoted by more entities of society, such as corporations, governments, consumers, and non-government organizations (Pedersen, 2015). Various international organizations--the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), World Bank, the United Nations (UN), and International Labor Organizations (ILO)--have established standards to continue the movement towards CSR (Mallin, 2013). CSR was once considered to be a recommended practice for businesses primarily in developed countries. Today, the popularity of CSR has spread globally (Lee, Ma & Lee, 2017). Further CSR initiatives have been developed and implemented by an increasing number of businesses in developing nations like Pakistan, Malaysia, and India (Szewczyk, 2017). Globalization has played a very influential role in transforming the CSR movement from a national scale to a global scale (Jain, 2011).

Many researchers have conducted studies on CSR in the context of developed nations (e.g., U.S. U.K. Germany, Canada, etc.), but few studies have focused on CSR in emerging or developing countries (Reis, 2017). India is one of the major emerging economies, which has been severely impacted by CSR’s irresponsible behaviors in the past (Pachauri, 2009). A recent study on the condition of the workers in the Indian apparel and textile industry, conducted by International Labor Organization (2014), found that workers often faced workplace exploitation in terms of working culture, contracts, ability to take leave, and disrespectful treatment. This study indicated that workers commonly faced threats, verbal abuse, and beatings in the textile or apparel factories in India. According to a report released by Sisters for Change, a UK-based NGO, and Munnade, a community-based women’s group in India, one in seven women in apparel factories in Bangalore, India has been forced either to commit a sexual act or to have sexual intercourse (Gunnupuri, 2016). Karamyog (2009) surveyed 500 major companies in India and reported that 49 percent companies were involved in CSR activities and for those claimed CSR involvement (49%) were primarily focused on charitable donations, renovating schools in rural areas, etc., as their CSR activities. Well-organized structure and implementation of CSR was shown by only 25 percent of companies. “Many companies are only making token gestures towards CSR in tangential ways such as donations to charitable trusts or NGOs, sponsorship of events, etc. believing that charity and philanthropy equal to CSR” (Karmayog 2009 & Sai, 2017).

In 2013, a new law was implemented in India which made it mandatory for companies to spend 2% of their total net profit on CSR activities. Businesses are becoming more aware of the importance of society and the environment for their sustainable development (Murphy, 2018). The Indian government is taking a more proactive approach to promote and enforce CSR initiatives among businesses. As India is becoming a more attractive sourcing destination for international buyers in recent years, its CSR performance has been under more scrutiny (Nema, 2018). The company considers individuals or groups that have an interest in the company and are affected by the actions of the company to be stakeholders (Cohen, 1996). Stakeholders, like the board of directors, owners, suppliers, employees, customers, etc. are considered to be key to the success of the CSR practices. It becomes difficult for any organization to achieve the CSR objectives without the engagement, loyalty, talent, skills, and knowledge of stakeholders (Gibson, 2012). According to Homes and Watts (2000), engagement of stakeholders is the essence of CSR. Although CSR has become a growing area of value creation for organizations, many stakeholders’ needs that are critical for sustainable development are often less regarded or ineffectively addressed by many firms (Marshall & Ramsay, 2012).

Rationale

The textile industry in India contributes towards 14 of the country’s manufacturing production, 4% of India’s GDP, and 27% of India’s overall exports earnings in 2015, according to Ministry of Textiles. It is one of the largest employment providers in India after agriculture providing employment to over 45 million people. (In 2016, according to The Cotton Textiles Export Promotion Council (Texprocil), textile industry realized export earnings worth US$ 41.4 billion, a growth of 5.4% on an annual basis. In 2017, the Indian government passed a new policy to boost the Indian textile industry. Under this policy the government of India set a target of textile exports at US$ 45 billion for FYP 2017-2018, while the actual textile exports stood at US$ 39.6 billion for the same year (“Textile Industry in India,” 2018).

In India, an increasing number of organizations are choosing to move toward protecting society and the environment, evidencing steps towards CSR (Pattnaik & Shukla, 2018). In order to engage the stakeholders, organizations have started adopting several mechanisms such as communicating the policies and arranging the meetings with stakeholders which are ordered by law. India has been considered among the top 10 Asian nations in showing its efforts towards CSR disclosure standards (Jain, 2011). Hence, this study will be focusing on the Indian textile industry and implementation of CSR practices by the companies in the textile industry (Pattnaik & Shukla, 2018). Within the Indian textile industry, CSR has come to the forefront because Indian consumers have become more conscious of how organizations are dealing with environmental and social issues and what they are giving back to stakeholders after gaining profit (Ozek, 2017). According to Nielsen’s 2015, Global Online Environment & Sustainability Survey, conducted throughout Asia-Pacific, Europe, Latin America, the Middle East/Africa, and North America, it was seen that consumers in these countries are becoming significantly conscious of sustainable and environmentally-friendly practices and are willing to pay more for the sustainably-procured goods. The increasing concerns of Indian consumers towards social and environmental problems are due to the change in climate and social conditions across the country.

Rapid development of the Indian textile industry has contributed to irresponsible textile production which has polluted the air and water ecosystem in India (Nayak, 2014). Textile sector not only requires a large volume of water for various operations units but also releases a variety of chemicals that are used for different processes. Majorly, textile mills generate Sulphur oxides and nitrogen from boilers, which create air pollution. From the washing of fiber to the dying, bleaching, and washing of the finished product, the textile industry requires a huge volume of water, and a high percentage of this water is drained into the river or sea, causing water pollution (Gupta, Biswas & Agrawal, 2017). In 2018, India’s environmental quality was ranked 177 out of 180 countries according to the Environmental Performance Index (EPI, 2018).

Moreover, most of the small-to-medium sized manufacturers in the Indian textile industry hire employees without providing proper training and personal safety norms, resulting in minor-to-major accidents (Bhaskaran, 2013). In addition, it has been found that child labor is still prevailing in the Indian textile industry (Estevez & Levy, 2014). The social and environmental issues facing the Indian textile industry are pressing and have drawn considerable attention in the country and abroad (Gupta & Hodges, 2012). According to a survey conducted in 2017, the economic disparity in India is at an all-time high, “India's richest 1% held 58% of the country's total wealth, which was higher than the global figure of about 50% (Business Today, 2018)”. More than 80 billionaires are living in India, and this figure is expected to reach more than 200 in the next decade (Popov, 2018). However, in the last couple of years, India has taken some initiatives in order to address economic inequality. With the implementation of the new CSR rules, the resources in the form of opportunity and money will reach the hands of the poor (Jaysawal & Saha, 2015).

Purpose of the study

CSR plays a significant role to achieve sustainable development goals for different business entities. Some of the key aspects are economic, environmental and social dimensions which assist in achieving sustainable development. The purpose of this study is to gain a better understanding of the drivers and inhibitors for CSR, practiced among the Indian textile companies. This study uses a stakeholder theory approach, both external factors (e.g., institutional pressure and incentives, customer pressure, NGOs) and internal factors (e.g., substantial resources, firm capabilities, employees, and CEO leadership) to study the role of stakeholders played in the Indian textile companies’ adoption of CSR practices. As an exploratory study, the primary data used for analysis will be collected through a series of interviews with senior managers in 10 Indian textile manufacturing companies that have participated in CSR practices. Specifically, the objectives of this research are fourfold: first, to investigate the types of CSR practices adopted by Indian textile manufacturers; second, to identify the drivers of the CSR practices among Indian textile manufacturers using the stakeholder theory; third, to reveal the inhibitors/barriers to the CSR practices among Indian textile manufacturers using the stakeholder theory; and finally, to develop the implementable and sound strategies for Indian textile manufacturers to develop their CSR capacities and enhance their CSR performance.

Potential contributions to academics and industry

CSR has been considered the most significant factor of business success in India. This is due to the fact that multiple benefits arise for an organization and its stakeholders when it adopts CSR practices. Over the last few years, there has been a growing concern among government, industrial practitioners, and academics regarding the CSR movement in the Indian textile industry which plays a pivotal role in the Indian economy and exports to the global market. It can be easily observed in various scholarly research as well as in daily news and business presses that the CSR efforts are becoming popular within the Indian textile industry.

The conceptual framework proposed through the grounded theory will enable further investigation on CSR behaviors in the Indian textile industry from a stakeholder perspective. The findings from this study will provide a better understanding of CSR issues including types, drivers, and inhibitors in the Indian textile industry. For those companies are attempting to initiate their CSR practices, or who just want to learn more about CSR practices, this study will provide insights on this emerging but critical movement for future business success. Also, the information provided in this research is highly useful for industrial practitioners to evaluate whether CSR is a useful tool for increasing competitiveness, reputation and showing concern towards social and environmental factors.

CHAPTER 2: LITERATURE REVIEW

This chapter provides a comprehensive review of corporate social responsibility (CSR), CSR practices, its drivers and inhibitors in the Indian textile industry. The research propositions will be proposed based on the literature review. These proposed research propositions will guide the development of interview questions for primary information and data collection.

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)

The history of CSR began in 1930 when two professors from Harvard University, C.G. Means and A.A. Berle, introduced the concept of CSR in the book “The Modern Corporation and Private Property.” Since 1930, the concept of CSR has been evolving and has been debated in different fields of business as well as in academics (MouLeite & Padgett, 2011). The era of modern CSR started in 1953, with the publication of a landmark book by Howard R. Bowen, ‘Social Responsibilities of the Businessman’ (Carroll, 2016). From an academic standpoint, most of the definitions of CSR and the initial framework of what it meant both in theory and in practice began in 1960. In general, CSR has typically been seen as a set of policies and practices that businesses follow to ensure that stakeholders are taken into consideration when implementing business strategies (Carroll, 2016). According to Carroll (1991), in the current business environment, CSR has become highly popular due to its capability to embrace all the aspects of sustainability, along with various expectations, such as philanthropic (discretionary), ethical, economic and legal, that people have for a company at a particular point in time.

The CSR pyramid (fig.1) presented by Carroll (1991) starts with economic responsibility as the foundation and the first responsibility of the organization due to the fact that organizations are responsible for offering products and services to customers in order to generate profits. The next component is the organization’s legal responsibility—laws that an organization should follow while operating their business. Likewise, the third responsibility is ethical, which shows that organizations should operate their business ethically. The last responsibility is the discretionary or philanthropic responsibility; organizations should play a voluntary role in the well-being of society as well as in their immediate environment (Schreck, 2009)

1247775235585

Figure SEQ Figure \* ARABIC 1: Carroll’s Pyramid of Corporate Social Responsibility (Carroll, 1991)

Gupta (2011) concludes that companies cannot survive fierce competition experienced in various sectors without being socially responsible. The study further suggests that social progress is essential for sustainable growth and development of every company because customers are more attracted to companies that support programs which aim to benefit the community such as employment opportunities and infrastructural development (Gupta, 2011). However, Kansal and Joshi (2014) proposed that ideal CSR initiatives should have both philosophical and ethical dimensions. Carroll and Shabana (2010) argue that CSR practices are related to core business activities, which is perceived as a method of preventing criticism as well as promoting sustainable development. As a result, firms are approaching CSR in a more strategic ways by recognizing that aligning processes with their objectives and business models will inherently improve their competitive edge (Panda & Kanjilla, 2012). Panda and Kanjilla (2012) also assert that there is an accompanying change in the perception of CSR, unlike the past where many critics argued that businesses’ sole responsibility was to create value for customers and shareholders. They believed that CSR ran contrary to the interest of the firm by extending its practices towards helping society. Hence, CSR is increasingly used since it strengthens the relationship between companies and stakeholders and enhances continuous improvement and innovation (Kansal & Joshi, 2014).

Arguably, the profit-seeking theory has failed to explain precisely why companies should continually participate in these practices when its impacts on financial performance remain uncertain (Tilt, 2016). Of course, most of the literature concerning the history of CSR does not conclude that companies should not engage in socially irresponsible activities particularly when financial benefits can be traced (Tilt, 2016). Based on these findings, engaging in socially responsible initiatives usually creates a positive image about a company; and such heightens the possibility of integrating supply chain practices with global partners (Tilt, 2016). In spite of commendable progress towards CSR, a broad range of challenges have been identified, including increasing costs and lack of institution and governance structures when administrative systems do not reflect this shift (Panda & Kanjilla, 2012).

By focusing on social, economic, and environmental perspectives, companies have increased chances of achieving various objectives that collectively culminates in improved profits (Mallin, 2013). Studies suggest that the financial-bottom line has been the key contributor to improved involvement of companies in CSR initiatives (Mallin, 2013). Nevertheless, CSR is perceived as practices or decisions that are formulated by the management, which entails contributing to the welfare of the society (Park & Ghauri, 2015). These initiatives are normally embedded in the day to day operations and overall policies to enhance compliance with the set policy (Park & Ghauri, 2015). In this regard, Nasreen and Rao (2014) proposed that CSR have a positive impact on the community by encouraging firms to act ethically as well as considering the environmental and social impacts of their activities. In doing so, there is increased capability of mitigating detrimental effects of their operations to the community and environment and further create value chain that effectively delivery goods and services to customers depending on their preferences and expectations (Nasreen & Rao, 2014).

Moreover, CSR activities support public value outcomes by focusing on how their services can make a difference in the community. In some occasions, these practices enable the business to contribute directly to the community through voluntary activities; which eventually builds a positive reputation (Verma, 2017). The additional benefits attributed to these initiatives include but not limited to enabling businesses to be employer of choice, encourages both professional and personal development, and improves relationship with customers.

Corporate Social Responsibility in India

India has a long custom of paternalistic altruism. The practices that are esteemed in recent years have been in practice for thousands of years (Jaysawal & Saha, 2015). For example, an ancient Indian philosopher, Kautilya, used to preach and promote ethical principles while conducting business (Park & Ghauri, 2015). In various ancient literature, the idea of helping disadvantaged and poor people is clearly mentioned. In the pre-industrialized period, charity and religion were the key drivers of Corporate Social Responsibility (Verma, 2017). Most of the practices intended to empower specific groups in the society such as the less privileged in the society (Park & Ghauri, 2015). As a result, companies started contributing to philanthropic activities and taking care of the elderly and sick. As such, India pioneers the way in requiring organizations to set aside a certain percentage of their profits to spend on social development (Singh, Pandey & Vashisht, 2016). Section 135 of the Companies Act that governs CSR in India has put organizations in a critical position of national development by mandating compliance on certain provisions directed to CSR activities. In addition, the Company Act of 2013 revolutionized CSR in India. This act provides that one-third of the firms’ board must have an independent director and of the board members at least one should be a woman. The move advocates for gender equality (Verma, 2017). With these immense changes in legal imperatives towards supporting corporate Social responsibility, large companies contribute 2% of their net profits (that are averaged across three years of continuous operations) to CSR. Some firms do fear that this rule could be used subjectively against them considering they could be interpreted in any manner (Singh et al., 2016). The Act requires that a company contribute to society within its area of operation.

As mentioned before, India has been utilizing CSR for several decades and it is believed to be one of the first countries to incorporate CSR practices into the organizational strategy (Borman & Chakraborty, 2012). Guidelines that were used to govern these practices include the UN principles grounded on three pillars--the state duty to protect, the corporate responsibility to respect and the access to remedy (Kansal & Joshi, 2014). According to Narwal and Singh (2013), CSR in India was for a long time considered a voluntary act implemented by the company for its stakeholders; however, the practice is currently a legal requirement, and the government has pursued active measures to enhance its implementation. At this point, CSR focused on economic perspectives such as creating stakeholders’ values, empowering employees, and meeting stakeholder expectations (Borman & Chakraborty, 2012). Compliance with environmental policy also increased in order to avoid potential fines and further meet profit maximizations (Narwal and Singh, 2013). Effective measures are usually established to guide employees on how consistently deliver quality products and services based on the customer demands (Narwal &Singh, 2013). As a result, the competitive edge of most companies that focuses on economic and environmental perspectives has significantly increased, hence resulting in stellar performance (Sabsharwal & Narula, 2015). Additionally, most firms in India engage in creating awareness among employees concerning environmental conservation programs and sustainability (Sabsharwal & Narula, 2015). Due to the fact that customers prefer purchasing products that are manufactured by companies that value environmental protection, businesses have increasingly invested in CSR to attract and retain a large customer base.

Mishra and Damodar (2010), through a qualitative study, proposed that many leading corporations in India have realized the importance of engaging in socially responsible activities as a method of protecting reputation, goodwill, as well as a method of increasing competitiveness. Consequently, Indian corporate sectors have developed appropriate strategies that will influence small and medium-sized business to improve CSR, so they can increase their reach in remote areas. According to Sabsharwal and Narula (2015), the immense growth in Indian corporate social responsibility practices can be attributed to industrial development with the entry of international companies into its economy. Due to stiff competition, every company tries its best to prove itself by engaging in programs that can attract the attention of consumers (Narwal &Singh, 2013). Therefore, these benefits are highly significant, and organizations which have implemented CSR are expanding their operations and revising their strategies to benefit the company and contribute to the growth of society and protection of the environment.

Corporate Social Responsibility in the Indian Textile Industry

The textile industry is one of the oldest industries in India, dating back several centuries. This industry is also considered labor intensive since it provides numerous job opportunities for various classes of workers (Agarwal, 2017). The Indian apparel and textile industry are the second largest industries in India following agriculture in terms of employment generation and economic contribution (Solanki, 2017). This sector contributes 4% to India’s Gross Domestic Product and 14% to industrial production (Solanki, 2017). In the financial year 2015-16, India’s exports for textile and apparel amounted to USD 40 billion, demonstrating its extensive capability and product demand globally. Currently, this industry is the second largest employment provider in India, where approximately 51 million people have been directly employed (Solanki, 2017). The apparel sector receives significant support from the government through huge incentives to farmers and manufacturers. Despite, its rich heritage, the forward growth of the textile industry depends on future government policy and geographical factors. According to MA & GK (2017), in the past, India has enjoyed a good geographical climate and fertile land as well as favorable policies which have substantially contributed to the apparel industry’s growth. Currently, the Indian government is creating an effective value chain to speed up the production and distribution of textiles to the market and further enhance the integration of operations and processes with trade partners.

The major growth drivers for the textile industry will be developing countries, particularly China and India, where production for both countries is growing by a double-digit (Pandey, Sacher & Kumar, 2014). As a result, India will be the second most attractive apparel market contributing to nearly USD 121billion by 2025. Similarly, the export of textiles from India is projected to hit $300 billion by 2025 (Gopalakrishnan, 2015). To effectively maintain such rapid growth, the government has employed various measures such as allocating USD 1.3 billion to allow acquisition of appropriate technologies (Solanki, 2017). In addition, the industry is grouped into both unorganized and organized spheres, which allow farmers and manufactures to effectively use both traditional and modern techniques in the sector (Singh & Lal, 2012).

Despite the Indian government’s commitment to promoting the growth of the sector, there are various challenges presently experienced (Kumar, 2018). Some of the most common issues include superseded mechanism and knowledge, scarcity of electrical energy, the risk to the traditional handloom sector, shortage of the raw materials, (Kumar, 2018). In this regard, there is a high possibility that the industry can grow further if these challenges are addressed adequately.

Current globalization trends have transformed economic relations, especially for India which relies heavily on the textile industry (Szewczyk, 2016). For this reason, the apparel and textile sector is a sensitive area with respect to CSR practices. In India, the focus is primarily on two areas of CSR: environmental impact and human rights. Notably, Nasreen and Rao (2014) proposed that CSR awareness is occurring among companies in India that are fairly embracing its practices. In this regard, textile firms are currently acknowledging the role of CSR in society and the environment (Nasreen & Rao, 2014). According to Hassini, Surt and Searcy (2012), most companies in the sector have now understood the role of CSR practices in enhancing sustainability. To achieve sustainability, Hassini et al. (2012) proposed that firms employ the Theory of Triple Bottom Line which enables management to effectively address the people’s and environment’s needs and maximize profits.

Despite the significant growth in CSR practices, Ghandi (2017) states that manufacturers in the Indian textile and apparel industry face challenges associated with implementation of the programs. Ultimately, small scale firms give priority to other projects that are easier to implement which have direct financial impact on the company (Ghandi, 2017). They ignore the CSR initiatives presently practiced in the Indian apparel and textile industry which focus on people, environment, and society (Ghandi, 2017).

The international certificates and the company’s code of conduct have been able to enhance working conditions, including health and safety (Koksal, Strahle, Muller & Freise, 2017, Gupta & Hodges, 2012). According to Stigzelius and Mark-Herbert (2009) most of the Indian textile and apparel firms follow international labor standards such as SA 8000 certification which covers human rights issues such as health and safety, child labor, working conditions, working hours and forced labor (Social Accountability International, 2011). Acquiring these certifications requires a major investment, which can be too expensive for SMEs. At the same time, the return on this investment is not guaranteed (Bremer & Udovich, 2001). Gupta & Hodges, (2012) indicated that investment required for these certifications is too much for the SMEs, because they have to incur various costs, such as audit charges and training workshops. The Indian garment suppliers and manufacturers participate in these certifications to enhance their image and procure more orders from the international buyers (Herbert, 2009; Gupta & Hodges, 2012)

Environmental sustainability is also a vital component of the CSR practice. In fact, studies show that companies that focus on environmental sustainability become more innovative, hence creating a competitive advantage (Rajan, Anand, Nayaran, and Bapu, 2016). The majority of textile companies in India focus on the social sustainability when implementing CSR initiatives and neglects the environmental aspect in the process (Rajan et al., 2016). International textile firms that source their materials in India are going ‘green’ and therefore forcing manufacturers to put prioritize environmental sustainability (Nygaard, 2015). Big companies who work with the international buyers tend to embrace the sustainable practices in order to maintain their businesses with the international companies. Furthermore, these companies are embracing closed loop supply chains where materials are reduced, recycled and re-used in the manufacturing process of textiles (Eryuruk, 2012). In addition, there is also re-manufacturing, reverse logistics, network designs, and green procurement (Eryuruk, 2012).

Environmental laws in India regarding the textile sector can have serious legal implications on operations because the majority of companies lack the necessary expertise and technology to meet compliance requirements (Rajan et al., 2016). Likewise, there was the case of firms operating in Tirupur, India, in 2010 when a high court ordered the closure of 754 dyeing plants in the region (Nygaard, 2015). The reason for this move was that textile companies in Tirupur the firms lacked the technology to comply with the Zero-Liquid Discharge (ZLD) environmental rules. Another case of how environmental sustainability improve a company’s CSR practice is the Tikau Oy, a Finnish textile firm with manufacturing plants in India (Maymun, Duong and Sishir, 2016). Tikau Oy is focusing on the use of natural fibers such as organic cotton seeds, bamboo, banana and jute to reduce reliance of synthetic fibers that are non-biodegradable or cotton that requires huge amounts of water and chemicals to produce (Maymun et al., 2016). Studies conducted by Ali and Sarwar (2010) show that organic cotton and bamboo fibers can enhance environmental sustainability of textile industry. Organic cotton is beneficial to both farmers and textile companies where they can get higher premiums on small scale production, it also optimizes water utilization and improves biodiversity (Ali and Sarwar, 2010).

Drivers of CSR in the Indian Textile Industry

What drives CSR is the mix of risks and incentives directed at companies in order to enhance standards. Society appreciates those companies conducting CSR,and most of the people are attracted by their services and products, which present incentives for companies to adopt CSR (Lee, 2008). The risk associated with the degradation of the natural environment also tends to lead companies to explore and implement CSR practices (Martin, 2012). Drivers of CSR are market-based when a company responds or anticipates the risk associated with the environment, labor or the social impact of a particular business practice. The drivers of CSR vary across organizations, industries, sectors as well as geographical locations. The responsible business practices are driven by external stakeholders like suppliers, local communities, and, natural environment, customer, shareholders, government, NGOs and internal stakeholders like employees, leadership (Lee, 2008). To get a better understanding of the incentives behind the CSR practices in the Indian textile industry, the possible driving forces are discussed below from a stakeholder perspective.

Customers

In every industry, customers are considered one of the most valuable stakeholders (Trebeck, 2008). Consumers of textile products also influence the way CSR activities are carried out in India. Today, customers have high levels of social awareness that will make them boycott or switch to substitutes if a firm has a very low CSR reputation (Gandhi, 2017). A study conducted by Maignan (2001) to understand the attitudes of French, German and US consumers, and it found that US consumers highly value economic responsibility, while French and German consumers pay more attention to legal and ethical implications. Additionally, French and German consumers were more inclined to support responsible businesses than their US counterparts. Podnar and Golob (2007) studied highly qualified Slovene consumers, and discovered that Slovene consumers highly value CSR and expect companies to take responsibility for their actions. Moreover, Dahl and Persson (2008), conducted a study on the attitude of Swedish consumers, which explained that Swedish customers value the various aspects of socially responsible businesses. According to research conducted by Planken et.al (2013), understanding Indian and Dutch consumers’ attitudes towards CSR gave helpful insights to explain how consumers in these two countries comprehend CSR and how companies can be affected from the attitude arising for CSR. This study concluded that Indian consumers are more likely to value philanthropic activities than legal or ethical CSR activities. It was also seen that Indian consumers value the condition of workers/employees working conditions and value environmental projects and it further suggested that the rise in knowledge of CSR based activities and the attitudes of consumers across developed and developing countries is similar (Planken et.al, 2013). Another study conducted by Singh and Malla (2017) on how CSR matter in buying behavior of Indian consumers, it was seen that consumers are willing to pay more for the goods made from socially responsible practices.

In the current scenario where companies are competing with each other, they try to cash every opportunity to connect with their consumers to increase their consumer base and build a better relationship with their companies (Saharan, & Singh, 2015). With the participation in various social issues prevalent in the society which are sensitive to consumers, CSR plays an important role in improving the company’s relationship with its consumers and maintain their loyalty (Saharan, & Singh, 2015). Also, understanding the values of consumers help companies know their consumer better and their intention to support companies’ CSR (Basil & Weber (2006).

RP1: Consumers can have a positive impact on driving CSR practices in the Indian textile companies.

Employees

A textile company always needs a team of highly motivated and dedicated workers (Hemanalini, 2011). The textile industry plays an important role in India’s economic growth on a global level and providing employment to millions of people in India. Like in any other sector, companies operating in the Indian textile industry are required to provide employees with a challenging and competitive work environment (Agarwal, 2017). According to a study conducted by Technopak Advisors ltd. (2015) for Ministry of Textiles, India, there was evidence that companies such as Aditya Birla, Raymond, Donear industries, Century Enka, Arvind, and several other large textile firms are highly concerned about fulfilling their employees’ needs. Most of the Indian textile companies are successful due to their human resource management (Tsourvakas & Yfantidou, 2018). It is highly believed that employees take CSR performance into their analysis of the company and how companies treat their employees is considered one of the factors by which employees choose to work for them (Appel, 2014).

Problems occur when the majority of the staff in a textile company resist CSR because they lack adequate training to effectively execute its policies (Shen et al., 2015). Since they work under poor environmental conditions and are burdened by politics of unionization, employees rarely speak out for CSR due to constant victimization by the upper management (Bare, 2013). However, having the CSR committee in the company can improve the conditions, by setting some effective policies, making reports to establish compliance, and providing recommendations to the board of directors regarding the project (Singh & Sharma, 2015). Employees need to be empowered to take a more active role in the formulation of policy and in the execution of CSR projects which leads to our second proposition.

RP2: Employees can have a positive impact on driving CSR practices in the Indian textile companies.

Environment

Being environmentally sustainable refers to being eco- friendly, energy conscious and protecting environment or following procedures which can have positive impact on the environment (Holdren, Daily & Ehrlich, 1995). Environmental good practice is also about business efficiency, that is, best use of valuable raw materials. Environmental sustainability is another focus area of CSR. The government of India enacts tough legislation to ensure that textile and apparel companies protect the environment or face criminal charges (Singh & Sharma, 2018). While defining CSR, most of the Indian textile companies referred it to a responsibility to preserve the environment, especially by effective use of fossil fuel and controlling pollution. Most of the textile companies in India have started integrating environment, safety, and health issues in CSR practices (Kaur & Tandon, 2017).

Most of the companies in the Indian textile industry have started making use of pollution control strategies, which include cleaner production processes and techniques, and end-of-pipe treatment (Jaysawal & Saha, 2015). In order to tackle the complex environmental problems of pollution, organizations engaged in the textile industry have started utilizing comprehensive, integrated approaches (Chavan, 2001). A minimum use of water and raw materials, as well as the elimination of waste has become a priority in the textile industry. This conservation means that most of the companies have started taking initiatives towards CSR by optimally using raw materials along with reducing environmental impact (Bhaskaran, 2013). Cleaner production (CP) is one of the significant techniques used by Textile industries in India as a CSR practice (Guha, 2018). It has provided opportunities to minimize the operating costs by improving the quality of the products. For instance, a textile company in Ahmedabad, Gujarat gained annual revenue of Rs. 85, 67,712 Indian Rupees by spending Rs. 17,10,000 Indian Rupees once in a year (Guha, 2018). Moreover, Toprak and Anis (2017) highlighted that in Indian Textile Industries, it is getting common to recycle and consume the waste water. As a result, it has reduced the charges of purchasing water, charges of waste water management and minimized the chances of infringement.

In the textile industry, there is a need for reviewing the existing technological processes so that a choice of process, equipment used, as well as a processing sequence can be evaluated (Köksal, Strähle, Müller & Freise, 2017). It has also been observed that current manufacturers engaged in the production of textile equipment are becoming more aware of the need to save water, energy, and chemicals (Chavan, 2001). Several new production technologies have been implemented at the textile companies (Bhaskaran, 2013). Modification in the equipment can be observed in terms of equipment related to printing, dyeing, washing, drying, and much more. Specifically, these changes can be observed within the companies that have started implementing CSR practices (Jaysawal & Saha, 2015). If the companies can protect the environment, then the sustainability of their supply chains can be realized which leads to third proposition.

RP 3: Need for the environmental protection can have a positive impact on driving CSR practices in the Indian textile companies.

Community

The community refers to the groups of people who live around textile plants in India. Indian textile companies have shown great interest in communities (Kaur & Tandon, 2017). By contributing a large amount of funds for education, social welfare, healthcare, skill development, and women empowerment, they have shown their commitment to CSR (Kumari, Sehrawat & Sharma, 2017). Apart from bringing a wide range of benefits to the organization, CSR is supposed to contribute to the well-being of society (Köksal, Strähle, Müller & Freise, 2017). Offering benefits to the whole community is considered one of the significant drivers of business to initiate and continue CSR involvement (Bhaskaran, 2013).

When organizations get involved in the problems of their local communities, a better environment develops around the business. Individuals offered help by the organizations are happier and achieve a higher standard of living (Kumari, Sehrawat & Sharma, 2017). Improving the local community is one of the major priorities of CSR. Many Indian textile companies have shown initiatives towards CSR by developing the well-being of the surroundings for its workers as well as for the general public (Bhaskaran, 2013). Organizations have been taking initiative to provide healthy work environment not just for their employees but also for the whole community (Kumari, Sehrawat & Sharma, 2017).

Grasim industries, which is one of the biggest textile firms in India, worked towards the social and economic development of the communities in which they operated indirectly through Aditya Birla Centre for Community and Rural Development. It included the work towards the education, health and welfare of the families which resides in those communities, infrastructure development, employment and sustainable development and other social causes (Gautam & Singh, 2010). Admittedly, there are also few downsides to the textile and apparel industry. Big corporations make huge profits and offer large dividends to their shareholders while farming communities that supply raw materials to the textile firms are suffering. They experience low standards of living, poverty, unemployment and are plagued by other social issues. Some of the most common pressing issues include: lack of vocational skills among the youth, food insecurity, lack of access to clean drinking water and gender inequality (Singh & Sharma, 2015). For example, due to abject poverty, between 1995-2012, more than 280,000 farmers in India have committed suicide (Chaganti, 2017). Furthermore, human rights abuse runs rampant among farming communities facilitated by exploitation from big local and multinational textile firms sourcing from India (Torkelsen, 2017). This brings us to next proposition.

RP 4: Empowering the communities can act as a driver for CSR practices in the Indian textile companies

Corporate Governance (Shareholders)

Shareholders have a huge role to play in CSR. The shareholders are both a driver and barrier for adoption and implementation of CSR in their respective companies (Torkelsen, 2017). The shareholders promote implementation by influencing spending on CSR. Companies, whose shareholders are determined to promote CSR by increasing company investment, report stronger compliance scores than those that do not (Chaganti, 2012). However, Bode (2014) reflects on the benefits of CSR that the effective enactment of CSR improves the efficiency of any corporation. The collapse of the Dhaka factory in 2013 can be attributed to the lack of an effective corporate social responsibility enactment and thus stipulating failures that could have been avoided. The issue was as a result of bad safety restrictions which ultimately damaged the image and efficiency of the corporation. Imperatively, shareholders are the closest link to the clients and thus they play a crucial role in bridging the gap between a company and its customers. Therefore, they can stipulate the success or failure of CSR depending on its incorporation within any institution.

Consequently, Rafn (2017) acknowledges that the working conditions for factory workers in Indian textile industries are at times appalling with low presence of unions, unsafe working environments, low presence of unions, and extensive use of overtime among other shortcomings. The acknowledgment outlines the need to have shareholders intervening and necessitating different and appropriate practices. As the textile industry prioritizes its clients, it should begin with repairing the situation from within before transgressing to the external sector of a corporation. The practice of CSR is highly essential in the textile industry to mitigate some of these shortcomings (Rafn, 2017). Moreover, the textile industry in India has been subject to sector-specific regulatory framework for three decades between 1974-2004, in order to improve its efficiency. The world is currently experiencing numerous changes especially due to technological advancements and the continuous improvement in the enactment of globalization. Berger-Walliser and Scott (2018) insist that the age of globalization and development of multinational enterprises necessitates increased attention on corporations taking responsibility for their social and environmental impacts. The initiative starts by enacting transparency and better corporate disclosure with respect to nonfinancial risks (Berger‐Walliser & Scott, 2018). Berger-Walliser and Scott (2018) point out the current practices that CSR is imposed by the government as a mandatory obligation whereas it was a voluntary engagement once. Therefore, stakeholders play a key role in trying to advocate the corporates to adopt CSR practices and convince them that it will improve their efficiency.

The comprehensive enactment of CSR should be able to stimulate the growth of a company and improve on efficiency. However, its ineffective incorporation can lead to a corporation’s downfall. Stakeholders have an interest in the public and the corporation and thus they are key players to the collective success of a firm. Govindasamy and Suresh (2017) reflect on some of the drivers and barriers of the implementation of CSR. They argue that the practice of CSR has altered from being a tool of maximizing profits to a tool aimed to ensure societal and organizational progress (Govindasamy & Suresh, 2017). The shift improves the roles of stakeholders and thus helps them have a bigger impact on the comprehensive enactment of CSR

Shareholders are not only concerned about getting more value on their share, they are also worried about good relationships with the other stakeholders and about the CSR goals practiced by the shareholding firms (Rahim, 2013). Moreover, the mangers of the Indian firms cannot ignore the decisions of the shareholders, as they have an authority to line up their humanitarian preferences with the goals of the firms (Panicker, 2017). It means that when shareholders are showing concern towards the CSR goals, the managers of Indian textile industries cannot ignore the decisions of the shareholders so they set goals for the firm accordingly. Arora and Puranik (2004) claim that Indian companies including textile industries are promoting social welfare in order to build strong relations with their shareholders. This is how shareholders drive CSR in Indian textile industries. Therefore, we propose our next proposition.

RP 5: Shareholders can act as a driver of CSR

The Government

India’s government plays a pivotal role in the country’s textile industry because it is responsible for the sector’s successes and failures in relation to CSR. Arora and Dharwadkar (2011) argue that the state needs to encourage CSR to overcome societal governance deficits which reflect the industry’s state and shortfalls. The governance system in place is tasked with supporting India’s societal demands which the country’s textile industries and affiliated institutions have struggled to meet. According to Arora and Dharwadkar (2011), the government has supported the corporate and finance sector to boost the conditions of labor and social welfare, which have in turn led to textile industry growth, societal development and the implementation of environmentally-friendly manufacturing processes. Similarly, the study by Zychlewicz (2015) asserts that the government has enabled economic reforms, hence widening the gaps between regions, cities, industries and companies. Moreover, inefficient sectors within the textile industry have been weeded out, leading to stiffer competition among the remaining firms. According to Żychlewicz (2015), firms generating much profit have larger market shares. Eventually, they reach a point where they are compelled to implement CSR and adhere to its principles.

Fundamentally, the government has enacted policies, laws and regulations in a bid to protect India’s environment and non-renewable resources (Jaysawal & Saha, 2015). These legislations have been advantageous in making the textile industry more competitive and sustainable (Jaysawal & Saha, 2015). For instance, the Water Act of 1974 was amended to solve the issues of water problem and sanitation. These government initiatives have compelled firms in the textile industry to design and implement CSR practices in their business operations (Jaysawal & Saha, 2015). Self-regulation by the corporation is perceived as an effort to minimize pressure from social responsibility.

Additionally, Arora and Dharwadkar (2011) proposed that most of the Indian firms focus on improving the required skills, information base and organizational structures which are helpful to implement CSR practices and the regulatory norms attached to those practices. Voluntary corporate initiatives from textile manufacturers in relation to these factors is an indication that the pressure to stay competitive while observing set laws and regulations serves as one of the driving forces towards corporate social responsibility (Jose, Concepcion & Salvador, 2017). Large organizations with stable financial conditions are more likely to install CSR in comparison to smaller firms. In order to develop stronger brands, products and services in the textile industry, the companies have adopted social and environmental practices which are advocated by the government (Dhanesh, 2015). For example, some firms in the industry have taken the initiative to establish social facilities such as health care centers and have campaigned for the rational usage of scarce environmental resources (Dhanesh, 2015). Along the way, the government has assisted these firms through research and development programs aimed at adopting greener production technologies for manufacturing processes. Therefore, we propose the following proposition.

RP 6: Government/ government regulations can act as a driver for CSR

International Buyers

With CSR as a prevalent area of impact in developed economies like the United States and Europe, it is very important for the companies to make sure their suppliers follow the same line of practicing CSR; therefore, there are a set of rules the companies have to follow in India in order to maintain their business with companies in the United States and Europe. Currently, companies must ensure that their suppliers have a code of conduct in their company systems which follows international standards (ISO 9001, ISO 14001, OHSAS 18001, SA8000); and conducts supplier social audits (Perry and Towers, 2013; Księżak, 2017). As globalization has increased the competition, the textile companies in India are targeting customers overseas through obtaining various CSR related certificates such as Worldwide Responsible Apparel Production (WRAP), ISO standards. WRAP includes 12 principles which are a prohibition of forced labor, prohibition of harassment, work hours, prohibition of discrimination, environment, customs compliance, compliance with local laws, prohibition of child labor, benefits and compensation, health and safety, security, freedom of association. WRAP certified Indian companies are more attractive for global customers (Rangan & Parrino, 2008). Additionally, with the increase in number of textile and apparel industries across the globe, the customers preferred either innovative or globally certified company products. The ISO certification was divided into multiple standards namely ISO 9000, ISO 9001, ISO 9002 and ISO 9003. However, later they all were merged into ISO 9001 standard. ISO standard helps the companies to get recognition in the developed countries’ market, where regulation regarding the certification is strict (Goel, 2018).

International customers feel awkward to be the part of activities which can harm people that’s why they prefer to buy clothes which ensure the CSR principles (Księżak, 2017). Many of the enterprises in Indian Textile Industry have adopted CSR practices, as a result the number of foreign buyers from countries like Europe and the United States have increased in International market (“Promoting Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in Indian Textile Industry”, 2016). Indian textile companies are increasing their efforts on CSR behaviors, which bring in more business opportunities from international customers. Thus, the following research proposition is presented

RP 7: International buyers act as drivers for CSR

Competitive/internal organizational drivers for CSR

The arguments for CSR dwell mainly on risk management and market efficiency (Jose et al., 2017). The industry’s interests are considered as a great driver of CSR, therefore, when a firm sees a positive financial performance in CSR practices it adopts it (Orlitzky, Schmidt and Rynes, 2003). At the same time, the involvement of any company in CSR depends on various internal reasons like strategies for improving company’s image and increasing short term profit, which are inserted as a part of organizational culture (Prutina, 2016). Moreover, the economic rationality in the Indian textile sector also aims to initiate and sustain the CSR under certain conditions (Kansal & Joshi, 2014). In addition, the executive body of a corporation is responsible to tune into CSR practices and they direct the employees through value-inclusive decision making practices (Swanson, 2008). Therefore, the leadership and governance structure of a firm can work efficiently by prioritizing the stakeholder interests, and designing the projects according to its social, environmental and economic objectives.

At the same time, the senior management of firms must be aware of the resources required to implement CSR (Hallback, 2011). The failure to understand the required investment means that managers are less likely to implement CSR. Hence, most of the researches have concluded that CSR requires suitable resources and sufficient budget, to be termed as a successful practice (Lozano, 2013).

In addition, CSR practice in India’s textile industry is molded by a framework that mandates the textile firms in order to focus on their economic and environmental performances (White, Nielsen &Valentini, 2017). Under this framework, they have relegated CSR reporting to the public relations departments instead of revenue centers under the management of accountants (White et al., 2017). Despite the promotion of CSR principles in the industry, researches linking CSR disclosure to those practices which have been inconsistent, while the fact is that managers in Indian textile firms do not give CSR equal attention. The reason is that they show unwillingness to bear the financial imposts of CSR as they are not sure about the benefits they will get in return.

However, textile firms in the India are compelled to adopt CSR strategies in reaction to competitors because they believe that failing to do so, may disadvantage them irrespective of their market positioning (Verma, 2017). There is a trend whereby a firm establishes and implements its CSR framework and other firms in the industry are likely to imitate the strategy because they view the costs and impacts of not doing so as worse (Verma, 2017). Thus, the majority of players in the textile industry sectors will be compelled to set their CSR frameworks with the objective of remaining competitively relevant and keeping up with the industry’s trending cultures.

RP 8: Organization’s internal policies and values act as driver of CSR

Inhibitors/Barriers to Corporate Social Responsibility in the Indian Textile Industry

Factors that act as inhibitors and impede the implementation of CSR are refered to as barriers (Shen et. al, 2015). These barriers negatively influence the CSR adoption in the textile and apparel industry in India (Govindaswamy & Suresh, 2017) although an increasing number of textile companies have engaged in CSR. Some of the challenges of CSR in the Indian apparel sector include government regulations, lack of training, financial constraints, confusion between CSR and PR, lack of top management commitment and lack of stakeholder awareness (Shen, Govinda & Shankar, 2015). Let’s explore some of these major barriers that hamper the implementation of CSR practices in the Indian textile industry.

Lack of Consumer Awareness

Lack of consumer awareness is defined as a lack of knowledge about CSR among various stakeholders of the company such as consumers, shareholders and employees. In developing countries like India, Bangladesh and Pakistan, the lack of transparency in CSR establishment and unawareness of ethical responsibilities of companies leave the consumers and other stakeholders uninformed as to CSR implementation (Shen et. al., 2015). In order to implement the CSR in their organizations, firms must ensure that their managers and other employees have a proper training related to CSR. There is an evidence that Indian customers negatively contribute to CSR practices in the textile sector. These customers lack in-depth awareness of CSR, which makes them more likely to be economical when they are buying products (Shen et al., 2015). As a result, consumers ignore the role of quality and social responsibility issues, making the companies concentrate more on their profits instead of concentrating on solving societal problems (Shen et al., 2015).Generally, every company including textile industries are required to operate in such a manner that customers get what they demand or at least they are not dissatisfied with the products (Hamidu, Md Haron & Amran, 2015).

Indian consumers are primarily price-driven which means that they will give preference to economic profit over ethical or social gains (Shen, Govindan, and Shankar, 2015). According to a study conducted by Arevalo and Aravind (2011), it revealed that implementation and adoption of CSR by companies was largely based on demand of willingness of the consumers, because CSR activities increase the cost of the product, and this additional cost is borne by the consumers. Moreover, the consumers from metropolitan cities are aware of the impact of various company processes on the environment, and society or the plight of the workers. On the other side, the consumers from the tier II or tier III cities don’t have any idea of impact of companies on its workers, society and the environment. Moreover, a study was conducted by Pradhan (2018) to understand the role of CSR in consumer buying process and it was seen that for different consumers, CSR has different meaning and value.

However, some of the companies followed and implemented CSR practices while there were others who opposed the idea of CSR because for them, spending on CSR increased the cost of production and also increased the price of the product. Sometimes the consumers are aware of CSR practices and its impact on the society and environment, but they preferred the price while purchasing a product (Pradhan, 2018). For an Indian consumer, price plays an important role because in a developing world people are more conscious about their budget. As far as consumers are concerned, they can be drivers as well as inhibitors, it depends on multiple factors. For instance, if consumers are not communicated properly about the benefits of CSR, they will not take an interest in this case. However, the consumers who are aware of the consequences will prefer those products which are socially and environment-friendly. On the other side, the preferences of the consumers also depend upon their income. In India most of the people are unaware of CSR practices and people with average income, therefore they preferred price friendly products.

A study shows that consumers with CSR awareness did not believe in its concept and some of them even opposed the idea of paying premium for CSR practices (Pradhan, 2018). In a country like India, lack of awareness amongst a large portion of their average consumers can be a key challenge for many textile and apparel companies for adopting CSR. In case the consumers are aware of CSR practices, they will act as drivers whereas lack of awareness among consumers may lead as a barrier (Hejase et al., 2017). Moreover, a study conducted on CSR issues facing US and Indian consumers, showed that Indian consumers have 12% less willingness towards CSR practices as compared to US consumers (Gupta, 2011). There is lack of awareness in Indian consumers about the benefits of CSR, so it would be valuable for these consumers to improve their level of social awareness (Gupta, 2011). This leads to our next proposition.

RP 9: Lack of awareness amongst the Indian consumers acts as a barrier for CSR adoption in the Indian textile companies.

Company Human Resources (Lack of Training)

For faster adoption and implementation of CSR in the textile industry in India, internal stakeholders need to have the requisite competencies (Szewczyk, 2016). However, this is not the case in India, as majority of employees and managers show high level incompetency to implement CSR and a clear indication for it is the lack of proper training (Gandhi, 2017). Likewise, the lack of training has been cited as one of the top challenges facing CSR adoption in the apparel and textile sector in India (Gupta & Hodges, 2012). In addition, consumers in India have a very poor perception about the capabilities of managers in various textile companies regarding the improvement of supply chain through CSR (Gupta & Hodges, 2012). The incompetence of executive bodies of Indian corporates results in unsustainable and socially irresponsible supply chains (Hassan & Shi, 2017). At the same time, the inability of leading officials cause employees to resist those organizational changes which are aimed to enhance CSR compliance in the company (Gandhi, 2017). Moreover, the lack of proper training of employees could not facilitate teamwork within the workplace, which leads to poorly-managed supply chains that are not sustainable (Koksal, Strahle & Freise, 2016).

Most of the textile companies in India have not made CSR as a part of their organizational culture as a result there is lack of strategic planning that negatively impacts the implementation of CSR (Nasreen & Rao, 2014). Since, it is not included in the organizational culture, no attention is directed towards the training of managers and workers. Indian companies need to start offering training programs to boost the supply chain by focusing on CSR principles. Moreover, the top management of many Indian companies in the textile sector is not training its staff regarding the implementation of CSR because of the fear of cost overruns (Nazreen & Rao, 2014). Some of the aspects that require training for managers and workers include CSR reporting and monitoring, implementing policy on human rights, better communication and collaboration to achieve higher levels of compliance (Szewczyk, 2016). Indian companies need to establish a training framework on CSR which should focus on strengthening compliance mechanisms.

Furthermore, lack of training has an adverse impact on the way organizations use CSR for sustaining their supply chains. Since employees and managers do not have the necessary skills to implement it, they are unable to educate customers about CSR (Shen et al., 2015). When customers are not fully aware about how CSR affects their behaviors, they will not pay attention to issues such as environmental protection, fair wages or good working conditions of employees in the organizations that offer them products (Shen et al., 2015).In addition, training refers to enhance the required skills and motivation of the employees to effectively execute CSR policies in the organization (Juarez, Vazquez & Escobar, 2018). Highly motivated employees can be a force of change within the organization to shift its culture towards CSR (Juarez et al., 2018). In addition, training facilitates creativity, competence in response to the emerging issues related to CSR and its trends, and it also helps to bring innovation in supply chain sustainability (Tay et al., 2015). However, the lack of innovation in CSR practices among India firms in the textile industry has spurred negative customer perception about them as they are more concerned about the firm’s PR rather than the CSR practices (Gupta & Hodges, 2012). Therefore, when examining how the lack of training impacts on CSR in supply chains, one should also discuss the costs of adoption and implementation.

RP 10: Lack of training and personnel act as a barrier for implementing CSR in the Indian textile companies.

Financial Constraints

The prioritization of profit over social welfare means that Indian firms in the textile sector need to reduce their operational costs to increase bottom-line margins (Nasreen & Rao, 2014). Many Indian companies do not allocate adequate finances to implement CSR in their organization due to budget shortfalls (Shen et al., 2015). In fact, it’s not just the textile industry alone, but generally, Indian companies have very low CSR rating compared to those from other jurisdictions (Singh & Sharma, 2015). Therefore, most of the social responsibility programs do not materialize, practicing low levels of strategic compliance (Szwcyk, 2016). The cost of implementing CSR makes it challenging to achieve a sustainable supply chain for many companies in the Indian textile and apparel industry (Gondaisamy & Suresh, 2017). The additional costs for compliance discourages many firms from funding CSR programs that can improve the social welfare of communities and environmental sustainability (Szwcyk, 2016). Some of the costs are related to the training of staff, supplies, reporting, complying with labor and environmental regulations, certification for eco-products, and contributions to charities (Szwcyk, 2016). The inability to fund CSR programs is attributed to the low perception of the cost-benefits and it accrued from implementing those strategies. In contrast, prior research shows that investing in CSR can enhance the bottom-line of a company and create long-term business success (Hassan & Shi, 2017). Some of the expenses are incurred through fines paid to local and national governments in India can be avoided by increasing compliance with government regulations pertaining to CSR (Ghandi, 2017). In light of this information, textile companies need to find cost-effective strategies for implementing their CSR efforts.

The financial constraints as a barrier to CSR in textile supply chains vary according to firm size in India. Furthermore, the poor organizational culture towards social responsibility by Indian firms has pre-disposed them to avoiding any costs associated with CSR in supply chain management (Singh & Sharma, 2015). The majority of textile companies have cited the high cost of implementation of CSR as a justification for their low spending levels and refusal to bow to the pressure from NGOs, the government, the media and trade associations to develop sustainable supply chains (Koskal et al., 2016). There is strong evidence that links organizational culture with CSR spending (Chaganti, 2014). One of the factors is the poor organizational culture that does not value social welfare and/or environmental protection, which will negatively impact financial investment in CSR projects (Woo & Jin, 2015). However, the best way for the firms to handle financial constraints is to empower supply chain managers to view sustainability from a CSR perspective in order to justify the costs involved in that process (Shen, Li, Dong & Perry, 2017). CSR is a tool to improve the sustainability of supply chains and therefore, any costs incurred are justifiable because the benefits of the process can exceed the expenses when handled well (Shen et al., 2017). Conclusively, CSR is costly not only for textile firms in India but also for those in Malaysia, China and Europe yet companies in those countries have found mechanisms to reduce expenses on social welfare without compromising their commitment to the CSR. Therefore, we propose the following research proposition.

RP 11: Lack of financial support is a barrier for implementing CSR practices in the Indian textile companies.

Regulation and Standards

Due to the government mandate of the Companies Act 2013, many companies in India have been forced to dedicate teams to identify the areas of CSR, in which they can contribute and plan their CSR policies. At same time, it is to be understood that the lack of government regulations and codes of conduct can impact on CSR implementation. The lack of regulation allows the shareholders to focus more on profit rather than on other ethical and moral factors. According to study conducted by De Neve (2009), it was seen that the lack of codes of conduct is one of the main reasons for the poor CSR implementation particularly in textile industries; which was extracted from the study conducted in 2009 on Tirupur apparel industry (South Indian region) (Lixin et. al, 2015). However, due to the failure of the 1956 Act, the Companies Act 2013 is introduced with additional implications such as CSR spending in India ("Companies Act, 2013", 2013). These additional implications were aimed to enhance the CSR practices at industrial sector in India.

According to the Indian constitution, the government is made up of three branches: the legislative, the executive and the judiciary with clear directives for independent functioning of each branch. For better performance of the government, it is necessary that all the three branches should work with integrity and efficiency (Rajak, 2013). Corruption degrades the whole government due to lack of law enforcement and these days corruption is widespread in every segment of Indian government (Rajak, 2013). According to a study conducted by the Consultancy and Research for Environmental Management on CSR in 2004, it was seen that due to poor law enforcement in India, many companies do not seem to implement CSR in their supply chains. As per the report, Corruption Perception Index (CPI), which ranks 180 countries on the scale of 0-100 based on institutional perceptions of public sector gave India a score of 40, declaring it the 81st most corrupt nation in the world (CPI, 2017).

RP 12: Poor law enforcement and corruption act as a barrier for implementing CSR practices in the Indian textile companies.

CHAPTER 3: METHODOLOGY

This section presents the methods used for this study. It also reveals why the qualitative method is the best way for doing so and the technique used for recruiting the participants. The primary aim of this chapter is to provide justification for the selected method as well as a detailed and clear explanation of the manner in which the study was conducted.

Research Methods

There are two forms of research methods that are usually used for data collection. These are categorized as qualitative and quantitative methods. In the latter case, quantification is achieved with the help of statistics and mathematics. The collected data is transformed into figures that are tested empirically for determining a relationship that helps in drawing a conclusion from the outcomes. In simpler words, quantitative methodology involves numerical interpretations. The qualitative method is not reliant on the numbers or statistics. It functions to understand, interpret, and observe in natural settings with the help of an insider’s perspective. It is considered to be a suitable approach for studies in management and business administration because it enables the researchers to analyze the cultural and social phenomena such as thoughts and behaviors (Babu, 2008). Examples of qualitative research methods include grounded theory, case studies, and action research. Qualitative data collection involves questionnaires, interviews, observations, documents and researcher’s impressions (Taylor, Bogdan, & DeVault, 2015).

To be specific, the qualitative research methodology used in this case is grounded theory. Grounded theory enables the researcher to offer an explanation of the main concern of population and how it can be processed. A research study using the grounded theory begins with the collection of qualitative data. After that, the data collected is reviewed and tagged with codes extracted from the data. Codes are later grouped into concepts and categories which become the basis of new theory.

Justification for the Chosen Method

Grounded theory is used as a qualitative research methodology because this research is centered at dealing with human interaction and perspectives. Qualitative research methods are preferred in such cases because these methods of data collection attempt to produce more accurate information, for example, interviews give more honest opinions and answers through personal interaction with the interviewer. The study requires data collection on the perception of the textile stakeholders. It also puts emphasis on attaining a broader understanding of varying opinions and perceptions of the focused stakeholders of Indian Textile Industry.

For the purpose of data, collection interviews are conducted. The interview is a popular method of data collection in qualitative research (Kajornboon, 2005). The interview helps the researcher to find out what is on his mind and how he feels about that (Frankel & Wallen, 2004). In this study, interviews are employed as there are several drivers and inhibitors for CSR practices in the underlying industry but there is a lack of a study that analyzes the perceptions of the key stakeholders why have u chosen the interview techniques mentioned.

The interview questions were developed following a review of extant literature and aiming to collect the essential data and information to answer the research propositions. The study needed an overview of the factors that drive or inhibit the CSR practices in the Indian textile industry in order to determine the state of CSR in the industry. The questions need a deep and qualitative understanding of how Indian textile companies comply with the CSR concerns and how such factors are perceived to be impacting the growth of the companies. The findings from the study will help develop a conceptual model for future studies.

Interviews

This study will make use of qualitative interviews for collecting primary data. It is different from the interviews conducted for quantitative research in several aspects. For example, quantitative interviews are much more structured than the qualitative interviews (Longhurst, 2003). Also, qualitative interviews are considered to be more flexible as the interviewer can adjust the structure and flow of the interview as per the response of the interviewee (Brinkmann, 2014). New questions can be put forward because of the replies of the respondent, and a revision can be made in the order of the questions. It is the duty of the researcher to plan and decide what format he is going to use to collect data (Doody & Noonan, 2013).

There are two main approaches related to qualitative interviews, namely semi-structured and unstructured interviews (Britten, 2006). In an unstructured interview, a researcher starts with a question and then the interviewee talks freely while the researcher listens. On the other hand, semi-structured interviews make use of a checklist of questions and issues that are required to be covered during the interview session.

This study has selected semi-structured interviewing technique so that the interviewees are free to discuss their opinions regarding the status of CSR practices in the industry (Cohen & Crabtree, 2006). Semi-structured interviews are neither a highly structured interview nor free conservation, which allows respondents to speak in detail about the focused topics and gives them freedom of speech (Cohen & Crabtree, 2006). These interviews are very much helpful in gathering the qualitative data and offers a balance between the focus of structured ethnographic survey and the open-ended interview (Ayres, 2008). Certain considerations regarding the style of questions were made such as they were aimed at getting the detailed answers. Moreover, they were free of biases and were concise and clear. The interview questions were designed in the English language, but they were aimed at obtaining a proper response from the persons interviewed. The data collected was recorded immediately.

The Respondents

The participants who have been chosen for the study are based on the non-probability approach. It implies that the group has not been selected through a random selection technique. Thus, there are more chances of some companies being selected over others (Bryman & Bell, 2007). The participants were approached through email to take their consent for conducting the interviews. Ten detailed interviews with the senior managers in the Indian textile organizations were conducted to collect primary data.

Snowball sampling technique was used for recruiting the participants. It is a non-probability sampling method wherein initial participants are used to gain more participants through their contacts and acquaintances. It is often used by the researchers to locate the potential subjects in studies where they are hard to locate. This method is very helpful if the sample of the study is limited to a small subgroup of the population. This method is similar to the chain referral technique. After the initial subject is observed, the researcher asks for help from the subject to identify similar participants for interviews or data collection.

After choosing the companies, the next task is the selection of individuals to be interviewed. It is important to select the right person for the interviews so that there are no risks related to misrepresentations arising from lack of appropriate knowledge. Therefore, it is better to select individuals who are in a central position in their companies as it will enhance the accuracy of their responses. For this purpose, senior managers in the textile companies were selected for interviews as they work closely with the issue and are observed to be the most suitable contributors for finding answers to the key questions. The participants were selected on the basis of their experience and insights about the industry. In addition, the participants interviewed were involved in implementing the CSR activities. With the increase in emphasis on CSR related activities and ethical practices in the businesses, companies are focused more on these areas. The participants were responsible for devising the methods and strategies in their own organizations regarding the CSR initiatives.

In countries like India, Bangladesh, and China, the working conditions have resulted in greater consciousness of CSR initiatives and ethical trade (Burckhardt, 2011). Majority of the participants were in the age group of 30-42 years. They were essentially senior level managers in the areas of production, sourcing, and export. All of the participants had the experience and background to answer CSR related questions. The chosen participants were the part of the organizational department.

Data Analysis

Data analysis is an essential segment in the research study. As qualitative data is in the form of words and opinions rather than numbers, the process of data analysis differs in qualitative research from quantitative, as the former is utilized by researchers aiming to arrange their research to enhance their knowledge and understanding of the research question.

In the current research, the fundamental approach towards analyzing the output from the interviews taken involves analyzing the data display, data reduction, and transcription of interviews. It functions by arranging data to create an explanation and new findings. The data obtained from interviews will be arranged and summarized to make it understandable. Then the information will be interpreted to match the objectives of study under process (Nowell, Norris, White, & Moules, 2017).

After the data is collected, it may seem vague therefore the initial step will be to make the data meaningful by transcribing it. Transcription just involves converting the data into a textual format. Further, coding will be performed to compress the available data into easily recognizable forms and concepts to make the data analysis process more efficient. This will involve finding patterns in the data set, and then arranging them to develop patterns and themes to help gain a deeper insight into the data.

For the current study, thematic analysis is an appropriate method for interpreting the data systematically. Using the method will allow us to associate the frequency with which a theme occurs to the entire data set thereby enhancing the intricacy and accuracy of the interpretation of the data. Thematic analysis will thus allow us to understand the potential of the research question in a broader manner and aid in establishing the relationship between different concepts, and help provide a comparison to other available or future data. Moreover, data that has been obtained at different intervals in the interview can be linked through coding the different opinions and concepts through the interviewee's discussion. It will be helpful to understand the current CSR practices in the Indian textile Industry as well as the influence of different factors in the situation, as outlined by the participants' perception.

The validity of the data analysis can be established upon a systematic application of thematic coding and analysis procedures. The coding process will involve two phases in which the first level of themes are checked for validity in the initial phase while the second phase involves assessing the validity of the second level of themes (Alhojailan, 2012). The validity of the themes at the first level provides reliable and accurate themes to be analyzed at the second level and makes the second level of themes less predisposed to mistakes and errors.

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Subject: Business and Management

Pages: 8 Words: 2400

THESIS PROPOSAL

22288524574594100121002228858747125Stephen Krans

1236527

941009200Stephen Krans

1236527

2228853208020Thesis proposal

Research in Strategic Management

9410036300Thesis proposal

Research in Strategic Management

Pokémon Go- Intention to play

By

THESIS PROPOSAL

Presented to

NHLStenden University of Applied Sciences

Media and Entertainment Management

Tutor: Floris Hegger

Leeuwarden, The Netherlands

November 2018

Preface

This thesis proposal is an assignment requested by NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences as part of the 3rd year module ´Strategic Management.´ The basic objective behind this proposal is to get knowledge tools of the different research process. In this report, I have included the various concepts of research concepts. This proposal helped me to enhance my knowledge regarding the stages of doing research. Through this report, I come to know the importance of color been linked to health, culture, religion, and emotions. The proposal was designed to present results of quantitative research about the topic of Pokémon Go play intention if there is a difference in reaction of the audience on how they perceive graphics image in gaming, either in black and white or in color screen.

Stephen Krans

Leeuwarden November 2018

279401651000Table of content

TOC \o "1-3" \h \z \uPreface PAGEREF _Toc528174207 \h 3

1.Introduction PAGEREF _Toc528174208 \h 5

2.Literature Review PAGEREF _Toc528174209 \h 6

2.1 The history of online gaming PAGEREF _Toc528174210 \h 6

2.2 Color theory PAGEREF _Toc528174211 \h 6

2.3 Augmented Reality/ Graphic images - Pokémon Go PAGEREF _Toc528174212 \h 7

2.4Color Screen Vs Black and White Screen PAGEREF _Toc528174213 \h 7

2.5Playing Intention PAGEREF _Toc528174214 \h 8

3.Problem definition and Operationalization PAGEREF _Toc528174215 \h 8

3.1 Research question and objectives PAGEREF _Toc528174216 \h 8

3.3 Operationalization PAGEREF _Toc528174217 \h 9

4.Methodology and procedures PAGEREF _Toc528174218 \h 10

4.1. Data collection PAGEREF _Toc528174219 \h 10

4.2 Data analysis PAGEREF _Toc528174220 \h 12

5.Critical evaluation PAGEREF _Toc528174221 \h 12

6.Appendix PAGEREF _Toc528174222 \h 12

7.References PAGEREF _Toc528174223 \h 15

Introduction

Entertainment industry comprised of all services and activities like music, opera, television, online video games, theatre, film, etc., (Finsterwalder, 2016). Smartphones and tablets introduced new categories of games such as mobile and social games. In 2006, online games came with Wi-Fi capabilities for online multiplayer and also have integrated capabilities called WiiConnect24 (Rivenes, 2017). Pokémon Go is an augmented reality (AR) mobile game that allows gamers to deeply engaged in virtual environments. Pokemon Go temporarily changed the way we gamed and interact with each other. (Bigfish, 2017). It brings people together in a community to communicate with each other about where to found certain Pokemon characters. It came in solid graphic images and colors. The three basic categories of color theory are (1)the color wheel, (2) color harmony, (3) the context of how colors are used. The scientists and artists have studied and designed many variations of the concept of colors. The human brain will reject what it cannot recognize and what it cannot understand. Colour harmony delivers visual interest and a sense of order. Colors have been linked to health, culture, religion, and emotions. Colors can strongly influence moods and feelings in both positive and negative way and also enhances human metabolism. According to researchers, it increases respiration rate and raises blood pressure. Colour is beneficial to the mind and body. The truth behind the myth is that black is the most recessive color that not drawing attention but makes people smarter. The screen wasn't as colorful back in the 90s, the concept of gaming within the virtual technology world is enhanced because players use games as arenas in which they explore new relationships, new places, and a new contact. According to Csikszentmihalyi, an escapist experience can be defined as the extent to which an individual is completely engaged and completely occupying mentally in the activity (prior, 1958).

Literature Review

2.1 The history of online gaming

Initially, the video game was invented in the 1950s as Academic training tools (Desjardins, 2017). German- American Ralph Baer invested video game for his pioneering work in electronics and television engineering and died at the age of 92 (Mullis, 2014). In recent years, the emergence of social networks, Smartphones, and tablets introduced new categories such as mobile and social games.

Entertainment industries comprise all services and activities like music, opera, television, online radio games, theatre, film, etc., (Finsterwalder, 2016). As the internet was improving in the 90s online gaming was popular. In the era of 2000, the release of gaming consoles with internet capabilities was invented that become the biggest part of the online gaming experience. The Sega Dreamcast and Sony PlayStation 2 was released in 2000, recognized as the first online game with internet capabilities. In 2006, online games came with Wi-Fi capabilities for online multiplayer and also have integrated capabilities called WiiConnect24 (Rivenes, 2017). PokemonGo is the game that brings people together in society and encourages them to communicate with each other about where they found certain Pokemon characters. The gamers are also discussing other techniques and tips involving the game that makes people interact with each other (Spence, 2016).

2.2 Color theory

Colour theory surrounded with a multitude of definitions, concepts, and design applications. However, there are three basic categories of color theory that are logical and useful (1)the color wheel, (2) color harmony, (3) the context of how colors are used. A color circle is based on red, yellow and blue color is a traditional idea in the field of art. In 1666, Sir Isaac Newton developed the first circular diagram of colors. Since then, scientists and artists have studied and designed many variations of this concept. In reality, any color circle or color wheel which presents a logically arranged sequence of pure color has a great advantage. Red, Yellow and blue are the primary colors whereas green, orange and purple are the secondary color and tertiary are the colors formed by mixing a primary and secondary color. Color Harmony is the something that pleasing to the eye. The human brain will reject what it cannot recognize and what it cannot understand. Colour harmony delivers visual interest and a sense of order (Morton, 2018). Colors have been linked to health, culture, and religion, emotions for centuries. In Ancient Egypt, the color was used as healing techniques, while cultural studies found that specific colors can be sacred or close to being denied based on religious perspectives, and be linked to stereotypes (Singh, 2006). Proper use of colors can contribute not only to differentiate products from competitors but also to influencing moods and feelings both positively and negatively (Singh, 2006). Colour is a powerful communication tool and can be used to signal action, influence mood, and even influence physiological reactions. Colour enhances human metabolism, increases respiration rate, and raises blood pressure (Rikard, 2015).

2.3 Augmented Reality/ Graphic images - Pokémon Go

Pokémon Go is an augmented reality (AR) mobile game developed and published by Niantic for iOS and Android devices. We have the sense of the next possible evolution of gaming in the year 2016 when Pokemon Go is released. Pokemon Go change the way mobile generate revenue. Pokemon Go uses the mobile devise GPS to capture, locate, and battle the virtual creature that appears as if they were playing in the real world location (PokemonGo, 2018). Graphics image have changed over the years because of the use of technology to create games. Generally, the representation and manipulation of a graphics image in any gadget are useful with the help of software and hardware. (Eberly, D. H. 2006).

AR is developed into apps in digital components in the real world that generated enhancement upon an existing reality to make it more meaningful through the ability to interact and motions (Augment, 2017). The technology allows gamers to deeply engaged in virtual environments and it temporarily changed the way we gamed and interacted with each other. (Bigfish, 2017). 7

Colour Screen Vs. Black and White Screen

In the early 1990s, digital images were being produced in all kinds of hardware, using all kinds of software, with and without embedded color space (Stone, 2015). Screen weren't as colorful back in the 90s, in 1998 the company called Siemens came up with the first phone with a color display. In 2000, Nokia put the color display to use so that the user could access the web, play games, and view images with a 4096 color palette. In late 2001, Ericson T68 was launched and packed with cool features, including 256 color screens with high resolution (T, 2014). In 2008, Apple‘s iPhones 3G came with high technology and a touch screen that became the high choice for mobile gamers (Doradus, 2013). Colour is one of the most powerful group use to express metaphors and also to translate visual languages. Research shows that a color screen is used to evoke emotion and mood and also associated with a positive effect while Black & white color associated with more negative(Medina. 2014).

The truth behind the myth is that black is the most recessive color that is not drawing attention rather than making people look slimmer. In effect, white reflects the full force of the spectrum into our eyes. The black color is uncompromising, clean, hygienic, and sterile. The concept of sterility can also be negative. Visually, white color gives a heightened perception of space. The negative effect of white on warm colors is to make people look brighter and harsh (Wright, 2018).

Intention to play

Escapism: according to Csikszentmihalyi, an escapist experience can be defined as the extent to which an individual is completely engaged and completely occupying mentally in the activity. Escapist experiences are deeply engaged and require flowing participation (prior, 1958). The rising popularity of mobile gaming is the main reason why gamers are increasing (Sullivan, 2014). The Researcher (ELSPA, 2004) explained that the gamers within the virtually technological world are enhanced because players use games as arenas in which they can explore new relationships, new places and new contact (ELSPA, 2004). Pokémon Go allows players to leave their house, walk long distances and explore their communities.

Overall, findings prove that the use of colors can contribute not only to differentiate products from competitors but to influence moods and feelings in both positive and negative ways (Singh, 2006). Gamers within the virtually technological worlds are enhanced because players use games as arenas in which to explore new relationships, new places, and a new contact.

Problem definition and Operationalization

3.1 Research question and objectives

Main Question

From the trigger and the objective of this research the main question can be formulated. This question will summarise the goal of this research.

“Is the intention to play differently when gamers between 20– 25 are presented with either a color black and white screen.”

Objectives

The objective is to identify whether there will be the existence of any difference in playing intention when the target audience is presented with either the black and white or colored screen.

Hypotheses

Concluding from the literature review, it can be established that there is a difference between the reaction of the audience on how they perceive graphics image in gaming either in black and white or in color screen.

The independent variable in this research will be the Pokémon go with colored or black and White screen

The dependent variable in this research will be the Intention to play

H0: A = B

H1: A ≠ B

Above is the framework of H0 and H1 hypothesis that will be presented for the research work.

A -It can be described as intentions to play Pokémon go after being presented with a black and white screen

B- It can be described as intentions to play Pokémon go after being presented with a color screen

Putting the framework into words and the results into the following hypothesis

H0: There is no difference exists in intention to play after being presented with either a black and white or colored screen of pokemon Go.

H1: There is a difference exists in intention to play after being presented with either a black and white or colored screen of pokemon Go.

3.3 Operationalization

The aim of the quantitative study is to make use of tools such as questionnaires as an instrument. The literature review clearly shows that there is a difference in how black and white screen versus colored screen is perceived by the gamers. With this research, a test will be conducted to find out whether it also makes a difference in the playing intention of the users after being presented with either a black and white or a colored screen of Pokémon go. If black and white provoke different emotions and feelings than colors, it might provoke a different action. Desired actions of Pokémon go to make the gamers want the product and eventually play the game. In this research, it will be tested that if it makes a difference which screen is used in Pokémon go and if it makes games developer could make use of this knowledge and explore it further if possible.

The following research is quantitative research, as it consists of numbers and closed-ended questions. The method is explanatory research that explains a certain experiment. The experiment about testing whether there will be a difference in playing intention when using a black and white or colored screen of Pokémon go game. This particular experiment is summarized in the following main question:

The concept of this research proposal will be related to the intention to play. This is what is going to be measured in this research. Intention to play does not have any dimensions, as it can’t be measured or affected by different dimensions. The variable is derived from the questions and is the parts that measure the intention to play the game. In this case, mood & willingness to play the game is the variables

Concept, dimensions & variables

Concept Dimension Variables

Intention to play no dimension Willingness & mood

“Is the playing intention different when gamers between ages of 20 – 25 are presented with either a color or black and white screen graphics image?”

811720511874500

Methodology and procedures

4.1. Data collection

Survey methods will be used to complete the research through self-reported questionnaires created with google form. The target group of this research and therefore the participants who are going to participate in the experiment in the form of the questionnaire are both males and females aged 20 - 25. They live independently and completely understands the meaning of colors. This target group is exposed to a lot of color screen on a different platform. The target group lives anywhere in the north of Leeuwarden, and their occupation is a student. The target group will be presented with a customized gadget with Pokémon go installed on it. This screen will be either in black and white or in color, and they will play the game for the maximum of 30 minutes. Afterward, they will have to answer certain questions about the color screen and black and white screen and also about their intention to play the game after seeing the screen using mood measuring scale( Desmet, P. M., Vastenburg, M. H., & Romero, N. 2016). See Appendix.

To perform the research properly, a questionnaire will be created, and an experiment will be conducted to test the hypotheses. We will randomly assign individual into groups of group A, and group B. Group A receive B& W screen and group B will receive the color screen.

Participants then had to answer questions about the game they play time. The participants were reached out to online as the questionnaires were published in Google Forms. The data of these questionnaires will be collected and analyzed in SPSS. Within SPSS a chi-square test will be made to test the hypothesis. Also, Excel will be used to create the display to get some more insights into the answers of the participants (Baarda, 2014).

Procedure

The random sampling will be used among the target group male and female between ages 20-25 years old. A random sample was recommending in which each in the population has an equal probability of being selected. One hundred participants will be randomly selected 50% male and 50% female. During the design of the experiment the read, compare, randomize and repeat technique will be used, and PICO will not be left out.

PICO

Population – Male and Female aged between 20 – 25 basically the student

Intervention- A black and white screen gadgets with Pokémon go installed

Control -A colored screen gadget with Pokémon go installed

Outcome –Intention to play

4.2 Data analysis

The survey instrument of data collection will be a questionnaire based on mood and willingness to play. The validated survey instrument is available online to validate the reliability and validity of data across the sample. The survey research will measure the intention to play of Pokémon go based on random samples from populations’ sample. The respondent will be selected randomly without bias.

Critical evaluation

While studies by Researcher (Augment, 2017) generally claim that virtual reality allows gamers to stimulate the environment, AUSM( 2016). The research workshops and the process of writing the assignment give me an opportunity to reflect on the past learning. The workshops were not structured. This made it difficult to understand the assignment but follow the instructions on blackboard help a lot. The workshops itself were really helpful, but the provided feedback from peers and tutor are not enough.

Chosen the research method, I was not entirely unbiased deciding on a quantitative approach with a questionnaire, because previous experiences with this approach are always a happy ending. Also, I am only focusing on Pokémon Go because it is new and is commonly used by both male and female most especially the student.

Writing a thesis proposal was daunting at first because I don’t get enough feedback in choosing the right topic. However, thanks to the workshops and previous knowledge, the whole project was less daunting and difficult to work on than I could imagine.

Appendix

Questionnaire base on the mood of measuring scale (Carmichael, 2012)

How do you rate Pokémon Go game graphic images in general?

Ans. - I don't like it at all 3- neutral 5 - I like it a lot

What do you think of the usage of color in Pokémon Go game?

I don't like it at all 3- neutral 5 - I like it a lot

What emotion does this game trigger (select at least one)

Happy, angry, sad, afraid

4. How do you feel if you look at the screen before play the game (select at least one)

Ans. Excited, interested, satisfied, related, relaxed, courageous, energetic, surprised, annoyed, irritated, provoked, upset, disappointed, offended, and passionate.

Other:

5. How often do you play Pokémon Go game?

Ans. Never, once a week, every day, between once a month and once a week, anytime.

6. What triggers you to Play the Pokémon Go (rate 1-most important 4-least)

Ans. The resolution, positive reviews, my close friends also play the Pokémon Go so, I want to play it too, the storyline, the images, to meet people, I want to high level

Other:

7. After seeing both black and white and color screen, would you play the game?

Ans. Yes, because:

No, because:

8. After seeing both black and white and color screen, would you confuse others to play the game?

Ans. Yes, because:

No, because:

9. How old are you?

10. What is your gender?

Measurement level

Question

Measurement level

1. How do you rate games graphics image in general

Ordinal

2. What do you think of the usage of color in this graphics image?

Ordinal

3. What emotion does this graphics image Pokémon go trigger?

Categorical

4. How do you feel if you look at the graphics image in Pokémon go?

Categorical

5. What triggers you to play a new Pokémon go?

Categorical

6. How often do you play this game?

Ordinal

7. After seeing both graphics images in B&W and Color, would you recommend to friends?

Ordinal

9. How old are you?

Ratio

10. What is your gender?

Categorical

References

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Stone, E. (2015). History of the Very Odd sRGB Color Space. Retrieved 2018, from www.ninedegreesbelow.com.

Sullivan, G. (2014). Wall Street Journal reported. Retrieved 2018, from www.washingtonpost.com/news/morning-mix/adult-women-gamers-outnumber-teenage-boys.

T, N. (2014). PhoneArena. Retrieved 2018, from www.phonearena.com/Did-you-know-which-was-the-first-phone-with-a-color-display.

Augment. (2017). Augment. Retrieved 2018, from www.augment.com/blog/virtual-reality-vs-augmented-reality

Medina, G. (2014). A Multimedia Foodie. Month.

Bergen, M. (2016). Recode. Retrieved 2018, from www.recode.net/2016/niantic-labs-ingress-pokemon-go-augmented-reality.

Bigfish. (2017). Bigfishgames. Retrieved 2018, from www.bigfishgames.com/blog/2017-video-game-trends-and-statistics-whos-playing-what-and-why.

Cherry, K. (2018, May 23). verywellmind. Retrieved 2018, from

ELSPA. (2004). CHICKS and Joystick. Entertainment and Leisure software Publisher Association, 14.

Finsterwalder, J. (2016). Film Trailers on Shaping. Retrieved 2018, from https://core.ac.uk/download/pdf/35468320.pdf.

Mazurek, M. (2013). ScienceDirect. Retrieved 2018, from https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S175094671200116X.

Mullis, S. (2014, 12 08). Inventor Ralph Baer, The 'Father Of Video Games,' Dies At 92: All Tech Considered. Retrieved 2018, from https://www.npr.org/sections/alltechconsidered/2014/12/08/369405270/inventor-ralph-baer-the-father-of-video-games-dies-at-92?t=1536595548381.

Murphy, C. M. (2016). NCBI. Retrieved 2018, from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4940003/.

NIH. (2016). MedlinePlus. Retrieved 2018, from https://medlineplus.gov/autismspectrumdisorder.html.

Plunkett, L. (2011). Kotaku. Retrieved 2018, from https://kotaku.com/5806664/how-pokemon-was-born-from-bug-collecting-and-aspergers-syndrome.

PokemonGo. (2018). Pokemongo. Retrieved 2018, from https://www.pokemongo.com/en-us/.

Rivenes, L. (2017). The history of the online game. Retrieved 2018, from https://datapath.io/resources/blog/the-history-of-online-gaming/.

ScienceDaily. (2018). Computer and video games. Retrieved 2018, from https://www.sciencedaily.com/terms/computer_and_video_games.htm.

Spence, B. (2016). The Benefits And Negative Effects Of Pokemon Go. Retrieved 2018, from https://www.theodysseyonline.com/boyfriend-plays-fortnite.

Statistia. (2018). Video Game Industry. Retrieved 2018, from https://www.statista.com/topics/868/video-games/.

Theguardian. (2016). The Guardian. Retrieved 2018, from https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2016, pokemon-go.

Vincent, B. (2017, 02). PCGamer. Retrieved 2018, from https://www.pcgamer.com/a-brief-history-of-online-gaming-on-the-pc/.

Eberly, D. H. (2006). 3D game engine design: a practical approach to real-time computer graphics. CRC Press.

Desmet, P. M., Vastenburg, M. H., & Romero, N. (2016). Mood measurement with Pick-A-Mood: the review of current methods and design of a pictorial self-report scale. Journal of Design Research, 14(3), 241-279.

Prior, A. N. (1958). Escapism: The logical basis of ethics.

Subject: Business and Management

Pages: 10 Words: 3000

Time Magazine’s 100 Most Influential People

[Name of the Writer]

[Name of Instructor]

[Subject]

[Date]

Time Magazine’s 100 Most Influential People

Coming on the list of 100 most influential people in the world will be considered as the biggest achievement of my life if it happens in 2040. To reach such a prestigious post, I worked very hard and struggled to play my part in the world to solve some of the significant problems like poverty, protection of animals and saving the natural environment from degradation. I also had a very keen interest in science and contributed there in preserving the natural environment and limiting the pollution by growing more trees.

I am a very dedicated person when it comes to challenges in academia and I also went on pursuing my studies further to analyze the ways in which mankind can be helped. I am not in favor of receiving credit for something I have not done despite having full access and this is why I went far from edges to earn this position from my hard work and struggle. I also loved to travel as this helps me see the world from different perspectives and get to know the issues we were not paying attention to. I wanted to bring a lot of positive changes into the lives we are living today if we strived a little harder. Besides education and environment, I am also a person who is always involved in sports as I believe that sports are very essential for health. This is why I also helped many disable Hispanic children to experience that.

I had a dream of establishing a sports center in which disabled and poor children especially Hispanic children are trained without any cost as our generation must know the importance of physical activities. I am well aware that it is not possible to achieve all the goals at once but I have seen people doing better than that so it should not be a burden treated by anyone including me. I will keep on appreciating people for what they have in the futures also.

Subject: Business and Management

Pages: 1 Words: 300

TLOL: Winston Churchill

[Name of the Writer]

[Name of Instructor]

[Subject]

[Date]

Title: Winston Churchill

Winston Churchill was the British Prime Minister who successfully led Britain during World War II. He is known for his inspiring speeches and never-ending determination even in the worst conditions.

Churchill was a charismatic leader who developed a vision and was able to get triumph for his nation. He was not a totalitarian dictator and performed his duties dramatically. Churchill’s excellent communication skills were able to take Britain nation out of despair. His inspirational speeches having precise and straightforward language developed faith in him. His use of words in the speeches made the British nation trust his vision. This enabled him to achieve the goals and objectives for his people and lead his nation to victory over Nazi Germany. His communication skills are an example of innovation and trustworthiness as they played a role in making him a prominent leader in history. Once Churchill said, “History will be kind to me as I intend to write it.” His principles are still relevant, and he is an inspiration for modern leaders.

Churchill revealed his right leadership skills during the war. He was seen visiting bombed houses and talking to his people. He was the master of words and speech. Though he was not a natural orator, yet he worked with his skills and made his impact crawl from every place of Allied forces. Churchill had many leadership traits; he was a writer, a dedicated man, a correspondent and a statesman. He worked hard with determination for the betterment of his nation regardless of the criticism he faced. His passion for winning the war was later exposed in his career. Along with being a great political leader, he was a great writer as well. Some of his books include The River War (1899), his father’s biography, Lord Randolph Churchill (1906), and the story of his ancestry. It is noteworthy to mention that he took up his paintings as his past time during World War II.

Another attribute of good leaders is the ability to have a vision. Having clear goals and objectives are the tools essential in times of chaos. Churchill had a vision of "Total Victory", and he used the V sign to rally for it. He was the advocate of victory sign. Courage is one of the excellent skills needed in any leader. The position Churchill held during the second war was the toughest of all. Despite this, he took the decision to carry on until the end. Britain stood alone in the war when France surrendered to Axis Power. Churchill did not hesitate or scramble because he knew his nation would also submit to Nazi Germany power. All the leadership traits are useless unless put to action and Churchill worked until the break of dawn. He is known to be a man of optimism and great fearlessness. He was the kind of leader Britain could look up to for assurance. He was just like a rock, immovable, confident, and protective. Leaders like him are born after ages. Indeed, he was a great leader.

Subject: Business and Management

Pages: 2 Words: 600

Tomorrow's Challenges

Your Name

Instructor Name

Course Number

Date

Tomorrow’s Challenges

A Brief Discussion of the Artificial Intelligence

           Today, artificial intelligence is a growing phenomenon that greatly influencing the different spectrums of life. The practical idea of artificial intelligence is an extraordinary example of the evolution of technology. Artificial intelligence is characterized as the advanced branch of computer science that focuses on establishing the domain of intelligent machines. Currently, technological development in the form of artificial intelligence classified as the mandatory practical approach of the technology industry. Machine intelligence in the form of artificial intelligence is the systematic process of simulation of human intelligence attained through the machines mainly in the form of computer systems. The main procedures of artificial intelligence primarily related to the aspects of learning, reasoning, and self-correction. It is noteworthy to mention that the growth of artificial intelligence characterized as a controversial form of development because it consisted of potential benefits and risks. This technological evolution is questionable because it is argued that the growing trend of artificial intelligence ultimately replacing the position of humans in different industries. Machine morality eventually raised questions on the application of artificial intelligence and prefer machines on humans. The fast-paced growth of artificial intelligence demands a critical examination of different associated factors to determine the true legal position of this technological approach. 

Consideration of Existing Laws Related to Artificial Intelligence

           The comprehensive analysis of the appropriateness of artificial intelligence requires understanding the current legal position of this specific concept. It is vital to examine the influence of current laws on the industrial position appearing due to the growing use of artificial intelligence. The evolution of the existing regulation of artificial intelligence is important to step to make better inferences about the future legal requirements of this technological development. The existing form of artificial intelligence law is defined as the field of law dealing with different types of rights and liability related to the practical application of artificial intelligence. The main focus of the current legal position is to consider the potential implication of this form of technological growth. The impact of this technological development can be assessed in the case of businesses, consumers, and the overall approach of society. Currently, the facets of legislations and regulations in the case of artificial intelligence focus on the use of this technology in the case of autonomous vehicles. The existing legal position clearly defines the term of artificial intelligence considering its applications in the case of different sectors. The legal position in case of this technological development can be recognized in two9 forms of federal and state legislation of the country. It is observed that in 2011, the first legislation was approved concerning the idea of testing autonomous vehicles considering the main idea of artificial intelligence. It is also necessary to indicate that there is the presence of specific laws hat illustrated the practical approach of artificial intelligence in the form of a restricted operation mainly in the form of motor control. In 2012, the state of Florida also adopted the legal position that allows the testing of the approach of artificial intelligence in the case of the automobile industry (Surden). In 2018, the existing legal position was revisited by the legal institutions once there a pedestrian was injured due to the autonomous vehicle. 

Questions Relevant to Current Legal Position of Artificial Intelligence

           It is observed that the current legal position chiefly in the case of artificial intelligence is not enough and there is a need for offering better legislative measures. Undoubtedly, the growing trend of artificial intelligence also enhancing potential threats and challenges that require necessary legal attention. It is important for society to established better ethical and legal grounds of this form of technological development to create a necessary balance between the beneficial roles of human beings and technology. 

Works Cited

Surden, Harry. "Artificial Intelligence and Law: An Overview." Georgia State University Law Review 35 (2019).

Subject: Business and Management

Pages: 2 Words: 600

Total Quality Management

Total Quality Management

[Author’s name]

[Institute’s name]

Total Quality Management

Summary

In the article, “Total Quality Management and Organizational Performance”, authors comprehensively discussed the practical implications of total quality management in the context of overall organizational performance. It is established by the researchers in this article that total quality management (TQM) is one mandatory factor when it comes to the long-term success of a company. The positive influence of TQM can mainly be observed considering the practical domain of enhanced organizational efficiency. It is apprehended by the researchers that there is a strong connection exists between the factor of TQM and the variable of organizational performance. Moreover, TQM can be characterized as the continuous procedure of improvement in the scenario of potential customers’ needs.

Response

From what I have learned from this exploratory research article is that TQM is one preferable practical approach to increase the overall performance of the organization. The practical implications of this prospect can be observed in the case of many different forms. It is important for the management of business organizations to adopt the idea of TQM according to their needs and available resources. The successful application of TQM in an organizational setting also involves the proper implementation of a specific set of organizational values and beliefs. The primary focus of the practical idea of TQM is to take practical measures in order to increase the satisfaction level of targeted customers. Achieving a higher level of customer satisfaction ultimately helps organizations to improve their performance level. This form of improvement can mainly be observed in the case of a higher level of organizational performance by the employees (Gharakhani et al., 2013). The paradigm of quality control and improvement in the practical form of TQM can be assistive to ensure proper utilization of all the available resources. The guideline of the TQM strategy can be helpful to achieve different organizational objectives such as customer satisfaction, employee involvement, organizational management, and improved process, etc.

References

ADDIN ZOTERO_BIBL {"uncited":[],"omitted":[],"custom":[]} CSL_BIBLIOGRAPHY Gharakhani, D., Rahmati, H., Farrokhi, M. R., & Farahmandian, A. (2013). Total quality management and organizational performance. American Journal of Industrial Engineering, 1(3), 46–50.

Subject: Business and Management

Pages: 1 Words: 300

Total Quality Management

Total Quality Management

Name of the Writer

Name of the University

Total Quality Management

Discuss the Takata’s airbags currently under recall using one (1) of the definitions of quality.

If research is done on the most prevalent form of definition that is used to define the meaning of quality for any product or service, then that definition would be as follows. Quality is defined as the total combinations of features and characteristics that demonstrate its ability to be able to satisfy the given needs of its users. So any product or service whose features and characteristics fully cater to the needs and wants of its users is considered a quality product and service (Beckford, 2016). Keeping in view this definition of quality, it can be safely said that Takata did not roll out products that were of high quality. This is because the airbags they produced were supposed to save lives rather than self-destruct and take lives. So it is completely within the rights of the consumer to demand that such a product should be taken off the market as soon as possible before any more lives are lost.

What do you think leaders of Honda, Toyota, and Chrysler could have done differently to minimize the impact of this recall?

Primarily leaders of Honda, Toyota, and Chrysler should have done a quality control check on their biggest supplier of airbags (Mitra, 2016). This would definitely would have minimized and even removed the chances of these airbags being ever put into any cars. This would have saved lives and also saved the reputation of these big car manufacturers. Secondly, the minute they got aware of the problem with the airbags, they should have recalled every last piece of equipment that these airbags were reduced so no more senseless death would occur. But what they did do was even stone wall the authority that was supposed to be the watchdog over such matters. They should also conduct an internal review within their company to determine why such a big problem occurred in the first place. This will help them in mitigating the scores of bad press and incessant media talks and help them in minimizing the impact of such a huge recall (Automakers Should Have Caught Bad Airbags, 2019).

References

Automakers Should Have Caught Bad Airbags. (2019). Retrieved from https://www.bloomberg.com/news/videos/2014-11-20/nader-automakers-shouldve-caught-bad-airbags

Beckford, J. (2016). Quality: a critical introduction. Routledge.

Mitra, A. (2016). Fundamentals of quality control and improvement. John Wiley & Sons.

Subject: Business and Management

Pages: 1 Words: 300

Toxic Leadership

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Toxic Leadership

Josephine Tauoa

BUS 501 Business Communications

Excelsior College

Abstract

This paper will be discussing the short-term advantages of toxic leadership, and the long-term disadvantages of it. Abusive and stern behavior when it comes to leadership might get the work done for the time being, but it can cause issues in the long run. There are going to be people on both side of the pole in fact, there are studies in favor of both cooperative and toxic leadership styles. However, research has proven that at the end of the day employees working under toxic leadership would eventually want a more cooperative leader in order to stick to the job.

Table of Contents

Toxic Leadership.....page 4

Study Proving Toxic Leadership is Harmful...................page 4

The Same Study Proving Toxic Leadership to be Beneficial..page 7

Balancing Home and Work Life..page 8

Opportunities of Advancement..page 10

Employed under a merciless boss...page 11

Go All In Culture.page 13

Conclusion...page 16

Referencespage 17

Toxic Leadership

When an abusive and rude person is placed as a leader in an organization, initially the employees get intimidated. This pressure and fear of the employees lead to the work getting done on time (Garrard, Garrard Barlow, 2018). When a person looks at this from a short-term perspective, it might seem like a good way to get the work done, but it can prove to be harmful in the future. We all have or will encounter such kind of leader and to detect them can be difficult at first. The thing to look at is the working culture and environment of the organization. As toxic leadership does affect the working of an organization and its working environment, it must be kept in mind that there are many organizations having different sorts of leadership and workforce. Organizations and business must be made relevant to the fact that short term planning and achieving goals that are short-lived and have low benefits for the working is not going to help it achieve complete success. Success cannot be achieved in a short period of time as it requires time and patience with highly qualified leadership and management. Many factors come into play while discussing the success of a company. The most basic of all is the working culture. It will be reflected here how a working environment of any business or an organization is very important and what are the norms that a leader follows.

Study Proving Toxic Leadership is Harmful

A consulting firm Life Meets Work exposed that around 68 of the employees who were working under a boss who was self-centered and abusive, expressed that they no longer felt productive. Apart from that, the efficiency, in the long run, was quite low. The rest of the 35 of the workforce, which was working under a more cooperative boss showed that the deadlines were being met as well. The employees were working calmly but meeting deadlines. Another plus was the fact that the productivity level increased in the long run. 75 of people working under a toxic leader claimed that they would be leaving within the next year. While only 25 of the people said, they would stay. A research published its findings that toxic leaders have a very adverse effect on the working of an organization that can leave a permanent mark. Employees, as well as customers, are affected severely, and the organization fails slowly. Employees work in an environment full of fear under toxic and demanding leadership. Another research done by Bond University and the University of San Diego found that the corporate world has been seeing fare share or abusive and toxic leadership for many decades. Leaders turn out to be offensive and complete psychopaths in one out of five organizations. This problem puts up a massive toll on the lower hierarchy resulting in low confidence levels and little to no job security. These adverse experiences tend to make the workforce less motivational which ultimately makes their professional life worse.

A report was made public on a director of an IT company. Mr. Shetty was found to be abusive and toxic which made the life of the employees nerve-wracking. Though he was a known professional and received many awards, but his ethical behavior was dark and toxic. He will use his employees, and their hard work for his own benefits and hence will get the rewards for his own pleasure.

This toxicity in the corporate world has been around since the existence of the human evolution. Human nature is diverse and keeps changing over the time. A person can go from toxic to being loving and respecting. Similarly, a respecting and down to earth person can become toxic and abusive at any time of his life. There are no particular criteria of when a person can change as a whole because there is no system of check and balance on human nature. There are some who keep their eyes low and are down to earth their whole life, and the same goes for the toxic leadership. There are many studies on such kind of cases where leadership is using the employees for their own personal benefits and not looking after the needs of the workforce. All of us do come across such kind of leadership once in our lifetime. The nature of politics in the corporate world makes it harsher for a simple person to work with ease and satisfaction. The prospect of excelling and advancing in professional life is halted as toxic and abusive leaders tend to be a huge hurdle. Politics and discrimination have proven to be the reasons for this issue.

The most basic example that we can think of or read about is the army leadership. Having a toxic army leadership can be devastating for the entire country. Many countries have been under the influence of a toxic military leadership resulting in coups and total demolition of democracy. The whole nation comes under this leadership and ultimately faces serious consequences. The world and specifically the democratic countries do not see eye to eye with a dictatorial leadership. The world wars have been a prominent example of a toxic leadership. The main agenda of the toxic leaders were total annihilation and extending their area of influence. This resulted in bloodshed and distrust among many countries. Many more examples are present, and the history of the present-day world is full of such leadership. A touch of guidance for the watchmen of the organizations is to carefully define checks and controls for brief ID of dangerous authority conduct continuing in the association. It will render them some additional opportunity to mediate and help with reorienting those toxic leaders and chiefs. Maybe a couple of the identity and mentality tests alongside specialized evaluation could help better comprehend identity shade of the aspirant. This could spare businesses from future calamities. Notwithstanding rebuilding of some perspective at execution examination method could help up to specific degrees. A decrease of 48 of work effort was studied among workers under the influence of a toxic leader while the quality of work decreased by 38.

The Same Study Proving Toxic Leadership to be Beneficial

The same study shed light on the fact that the average time period people stayed under a toxic leader was longer. Around seven years being the average time span an employee lasted under an abusive boss. On the contrary, it was surprising that the average period an employee lasted under a more cooperative boss was lesser. It was for five years (Boddy Croft, 2016). The fascinating findings included how some people admitted on their own that they lasted and worked with an abusive boss longer than a kinder one. Toxic leaders do influence their workers in a negative as well as in a positive way. Some leaders do it for the benefit of the company and employees. To make a company a success and polish the employees so they can sustain hardships in the future. This is a common perception that harsher environments tend to make a person tolerant and reluctant to any harsh situation. This is termed by many employees as professional training and even toxic managers when interviewed have the same answer that it is for the benefit of the employees, so they can make their future more suitable when moving to other companies. This is to some extent true as having a toxic, and a psychopath boss in a first job can make things easier and bearable for a person who is soon joining another job where a manipulative leadership can be an issue.

While having a toxic military force can be a big issue, it can be fruitful as well but in the terms of defense. Some countries more specifically underdeveloped and third world countries are in dire need of a foolproof security in the present-day world. The security issues are prevailing in these countries and having a strong military is the only hope for these war-torn countries. Having secure borders, no securities is what they can only enjoy and having such kind of military can make the defense much better and stronger.

Many studies have shown that employees stay under the influence of a toxic leader much longer as this makes their professional life to grow. Facing hardships becomes easy and facing another toxic leader becomes a routine.

Balancing Home and Work Life

Many workers claimed that working under someone who is not very understanding can be very hard. It took a toll on their lives at home. Around 70 of workers claimed that they had conflicts in their life at home. When it comes to helpful and kind bosses, only 27 of people complained. The social life of employees is affected adversely under the influence of a toxic boss. The office timings, the sense of no job security, getting thwarted at in the office, belittling and many other things can make the life of a worker full of misery. This results in bad family relations and little to no social life. A worker can face any social and family issue, and they might be reluctant to share it with their colleagues and their managers just because of the presence of toxicity and politics. Politics in the corporate world is very common, and it has been observed in many articles that workers do not share their issues with their peers and managers because of the presence of a toxic leader. Getting mocked and defamed by toxic managers is common when an employee asks for leave or holiday because of the family issue. People tend to get depressed over their state of affairs at the office. Where the pay is good, but the environment is toxic, there prevails a sense of depression.

At this modern era, the concept of innovation prevails, companies are demanding ideas and new concepts so that they can make their company a huge success. The worker can only work if the environment provided to them at work can be in complete sync to their family and social life. It is true that companies do provide health and family benefits to the workers, but a proper environment is required for an innovative mindset. Many big companies and business have been in the limelight of innovation. There have been blogs and articles on such companies where the environment provided to the employees is so warm and welcoming that workers feel at home. There are many international bodies at present that are working for the benefits of the workers and employees and ensuring them a better future. Private as well as public organizations along with their leaders, managers, and governors must be held accountable for in such cases of toxicity. They should realize that their companies and businesses are advancing because of the work and sheer determination of the workers. Without them, their companies cannot prevail, and a total and social boycott can leave them in shambles. Professional and personal life of a worker must be balanced out, so they can work and perform their duties with perfection. Customers also get a hint of what company norms are and how the company workers are being treated. Having a good reputation in public is what an organization strives for and having a toxic worker, or a toxic leader can put a companys reputation in the dirt. Having a balanced family and work life helps workers to be more productive and innovative. Following points are to be considered

Working hours to be flexible and less hectic

Professional tools for making work time easy

Health benefits

A complete set of holidays

Availability of paid leaves

Maternity leaves

Sick leaves

Casual leaves

Annual leaves

Opportunities for Advancement

A large number of workers complained that working under a self-centered person reduced their chances of better opportunities (Anninos, 2018). More than 80 of employees told that they could not garner better chances in the corporate world because of the name they were attached to. Hardly 8 of workers complained that they had issues with a good boss. A workforce under a toxic boss is very common nowadays. Feeling of now job security and no prospect of advancing professionally is getting common these days. With higher rates of unemployment, people tend to go for any opportunity they might get and even work under a toxic boss. This further makes the professional growth of a worker limited. The fear of unemployment keeps the worker under the umbrella of toxic leadership and thus tends to make poor decisions which make it easy for the leader or manager to belittle him in front of other employees. There have been many such scenarios of discrimination in the corporate world where the hard work of many workers was never recognized, and they were left all ignored.

Working hard and not getting rewarded for is a familiar concept as toxic leaders do take all the credit unethically and unrightfully. Workers with no job security keep on doing all the hard work without complaining under a toxic leader. We all face this issue at our workplace where there is no recognition of the hard work we do. Under a toxic leadership, workers motivation dies, and the sheer will of advancing dies as well. This accounts for not leaving the job and giving up on their dreams of success.

Where there are toxic leaders and managers, there are toxic workers as well. The thing that hurts the motivation and future opportunities of ethical workers is that toxic workers get rewarded and get paid at the same time as others. This working standard is questionable at all forms as of why the toxic managers much more appreciate the toxic worker and get rewarded more often than nontoxic workers. These such kinds of practices and toxicity spread all around the office in days. Every worker starts getting influenced and the nature changes from down to earth to manipulative and politicizing. Making a work environment full of negative emotions, managers and workers with their toxic behavior make the life and satisfaction of other workers worse. The company fails, unemployment prevails. There are many leaders who are toxic in the sense that they want things to get done in time and are very inflexible about this. Their rudeness and arrogance make the workforce less creative and low on energy level. There is no concept of innovation under such a leader and taking risks by trying new things and taking different paths is avoided by such leaders. They do their work only under the sheer pressure of their boss which results in less innovation and low-quality work done. Workers feel no pride in doing their job and only are present at their seats, so they can get paid and go home. This provides for the reason of little to no advancement in professional life. Such toxic leaders are not involved in employee training and not cherishing their values is one of the characteristics of a toxic leader. Toxic managers and leaders draw out the most exceedingly awful side of us by influencing us to trust that we worth their poor behavior. They are regularly unusual by the way they will respond or treat you, and that sort of sporadic conduct makes it difficult to feel positive about your very own capacities.

Employed under a Merciless Boss

It might come as a surprise but working for a cutthroat boss is very common. More than 50 of the people working complained of having a boss who was not very understanding and demanded work that could not be done in the given time (Edwards, Schedlitzki, Ward Wood, 2015). It has become a regular occurrence that harsh bosses exist. Nowadays, finding a good boss would be harder than a toxic boss. This because people are getting hired in many harsh environments and the factor of unemployment tends to make the most of it. People are looking for doing any job they can even if the leadership is toxic. Recognizing that a manager is toxic, and manipulative is not as easy as it sounds. Most of such toxic leaders are intelligent, manipulative, know their whereabouts, know how to deal with every worker with their charisma and with much time spent under their leadership, it becomes evident that a leader is toxic and it is too late to do anything about it. A sense of insecurity, feeling isolated, nervous and having no courage to face the unpredictable future, workers tend to work under such toxic bosses with or without any consent. This makes up most of the corporate world. Having such a toxic leader is never too easy as most of the result-oriented companies require such leaders and their unethical behavior and dark attitude is ignored. This is where the workers feel helpless and have no choice to make for their future prospects. Working for a company that provides benefits, but the environment is toxic is where the efforts of workers are put to rest, and hence, they unwillingly work under such toxic leaders.

There is a ray of hope in all of this. As we all know that there are no such shortcuts for achieving success and in the long run, toxicity will only hurt the company. Though the benefits of having a witty toxic leader are present but they are short-lived, and it should be noticed and remembered that this behavior will not always prevail. At one point, business has to move on and to go through innovation businesses are aware of the fact that employees must be treated well so they can work effortlessly and innovatively to ensure company success. Working for a toxic leader can never be easy, and it can be dealt with at all levels. Individually as well as with teamwork, toxic managers, leaders, and bosses can be dealt with. Managers and workers can deal with a toxic leader face to face and come up with a solution to make the environment more professional and welcoming. This transformational process will be a difficult task and take a lot of time but it the end it will help to make the working environment much better. Communication will prevail, and slowly the behavioral changes will come intact. This will work in the betterment for everyone at the organization and will help to achieve company goals more efficiently.

Go All in Culture

It was also found that the organization that believed in the term Go big or go home were the ones, which had a more demanding boss (Seago, 2016). This kind of culture actually demands a leader to be robust with the workers in order to reach the required goals. Leaders are the driving force who leads a company to huge success. Leaders are the one making decisions for the working of an organization and how to make up the working conditions of that organization. If a toxic leader is making decisions, he or she will most probably make a decision that is beneficial to him. He will not reflect on how these decisions will hurt the business and how the lives of the workers will be affected. He will think of himself and will proactively spread the benefits of shortcomings. The goals are focused on the benefits of one individual and some for the company. These toxic individuals have no moral grounds and take unethical steps that hurt the working of the entire organization. Achieving short term goals is what they prefer, and ultimately, they are recognized by the executives as effective leaders.

Working in such a culture of despair is hard for employees. Under such a leadership, their motivational level is highly decreased, and they feel insecure about their work. The basic culture of the organization is affected which makes employees unsure of their leaders and managers. They cannot complain about their issues or share them with colleagues. If this issue prevails and not taken care of, then this culture will prevail. Replacement of toxic leaders will be more toxic leaders. One of the traits of toxic leaders is that they ensure that their replacement will be more toxic and eviler. The culture of toxicity in an organization will only result poorly as the workforce might revolt and cause havoc. Military leaders are the prime examples as it has been seen in the past that a harsh and toxic military leader will nominate a toxic leader after his retirement. This is a fundamental concept in almost every organization whether private or public. There are no checks and balances for such a system of injustice. Taking proper actions against such leaders and that too by the organization itself is what is required to send a message that the organization values the concept of respect. Give respect, take respect is what organizations should strive for. The notion of Go Big or Go home is a professional one and that is what each employee strives for, but it does not mean to hire such leaders who can get the job done. A. Padilla et al. have suggested that a toxic leader does not make the working of an environment toxic, but it is the toxic workers and the environment that helps toxicity prevails.

In a study made by W. Bennis, it was concluded that toxic workers and the follower of a toxic leader make the working of an organization noxious. While a study suggested that workers who ignore or keep working under a toxic leader are only tolerating because of some personal gains and benefits. Companies giving benefits and paying hefty amounts to workers, do expect them to work more efficiently and professionally. If a low-level worker can be held accountable for his actions, then a proper setup should be present for leaders and managers that can hold them accountable for their actions. Ina toxic environment, managers, cannot bring about innovation out of their workers. Full utilization of workers becomes more difficult as the culture becomes toxic under a toxic leader. So, in order to achieve complete success and innovation, organizations need to make services provided to the workers much more appreciable and reliable. Of course, the system to check and balance must be maintained for all workers and for managers and leaders as well.

Detoxifying the leaders

The employees working under the influence of a toxic leader may end up being the best judge and identifier of the harmful conduct of the leader. Subsequently, a 360 execution and identity assessment of such leaders is requested by the official tutors. They ought to minutely screen and guarantee that a dangerous leader association with followers earn a solid place in the organization. Additionally, inviting and bother free objection windows and whistleblowing ought to be energized for any wrongdoing in the association. When lethal administration practices have been uncovered, perceived and the proper move made inside the association, such exercises scholarly can turn into a necessary piece of the determination or advancement process for future leaders.

In some cases, such conditions emerge in associations when a decent and hard worker is step by step presented to a high-hazard zone of development of lethal and toxic attributes. It is a high-ready circumstance for the HR management. History is overflowing with instances of associations dying to their forceful and recursive arrangements that focus just on the upsurge of budgetary numbers. There have been many instances of organizations who started with such good policies and procedures that these companies were reaching glories and success but slowly with their policies changing and having the influence of toxic leaders and managers, these companies perished. The scandals of Lehman Brothers and Enron are famous. Different strides to produce a remedy of toxicity and toxic practices are relational and specialized expertise improvement preparing programs. Just fixing dangerous and toxic conducts could be too pitiful a stage to determine the grave emergency associations experience. Legitimate verbal and strict composed admonitions to the disturbance makers ought to be raised from the fitting experts on time. In the event that associations do not have components to screen harmful initiative practices, they can look for expert mediation from external instructors for helping the people in question and furthermore correcting the toxic leaders.

After facing toxic managers and leaders, it must be ensured that such kind of leaders does not jump up in the future. In any case, before joining any organization, it should be made sure that the organization is treating representatives in a benevolent and fitting way. Naturally, characterize the practices that will not go on without serious consequences and consider them responsible for a turnover. Careful observing and powerful arrangements can alone dispose of a tremendous level of the danger of toxic practice improvement in an association. The last alternative accessible option available is after the mediation and follow-up period to let go of the leader who was the main cause of spreading toxicity.

Conclusion

The Cooperate sector is becoming more ruthless by time. It is important that a less toxic environment is created for employees to be more creative. This concept of toxic leaders in killing the little creativity that the workers have. Organizations need to work on reducing this environment so that the workers can be retained, and productivity can be reinstalled. But thankfully, according to Walter F. Ulmer, around 50 of the leaders in the corporate world are not toxic or are open to changing their toxic behaviors while around 10 are toxic in the business sector. Entire working of an organization is based upon the decisions of the leader. The ray of hope is still there people are more welcoming and understand the nature of advancement and the competence the present-day world has for the organizations. Only an innovative organization can achieve success in such harsh conditions of competence, and this can only be done if the working environment of a company and its culture are based upon the concept of respect.

References

Garrard, P., Garrard, Barlow. (2018).Leadership Hubris Epidemic. Palgrave Macmillan.

Boddy, C. R., Croft, R. (2016). Marketing in a time of toxic leadership.Qualitative Market Research An International Journal,19(1), 44-64.

Anninos, L. N. (2018). Narcissistic business leaders as heralds of the self-proclaimed excellence.International Journal of Quality and Service Sciences,10(1), 49-60.

Edwards, G., Schedlitzki, D., Ward, J., Wood, M. (2015). Exploring critical perspectives of toxic and bad leadership through film.Advances in Developing Human Resources,17(3), 363-375.

Seago, J. (2016). Toxic leaders, toxic culture internal auditors can identify unhealthy behaviors that may undermine the organization.Internal Auditor,73(3), 28-34.

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BUSINESS AND MANAGEMENT

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Subject: Business and Management

Pages: 15 Words: 4500

Toxic Leadership

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Toxic Leadership

Your Name (First M. Last)

School or Institution Name (University at Place or Town, State)

Abstract

This paper will be discussing the short-term advantages of toxic leadership, and the long-term disadvantages of it. Abusive and stern behavior when it comes to leadership might get the work done for the time being, but it can cause issues in the long run.

Table of Contents

Toxic Leadership.....page 4

Study Proving Toxic Leadership is Harmful...................page 4

The Same Study Proving Toxic Leadership to be Beneficial..page 4

Balancing Home and Work Life..page 5

Opportunities of Advancementpage 5

Employed under a merciless bosspage 5

Go All In Culture.page 5

Conclusion....page 6

References....page 7

Toxic Leadership

When an abusive and rude person is placed as a leader in an organization, initially the employees get intimidated. This pressure and fear of the employees lead to the work getting done on time (Garrard, Garrard Barlow, 2018).. When a person looks at this from a short-term perspective, it might seem like a good way to get the work done, but it can prove to be harmful in the future.

Study Proving Toxic Leadership is Harmful

A consulting firm Life Meets Work exposed that around 68 of the employees who were working under a boss who was self-centered and abusive, expressed that they no longer felt productive. Apart from that, the efficiency, in the long run, was quite low. The rest of the 35 of the workforce, which was working under a more cooperative boss showed that the deadlines were being met as well. The employees were working calmly but meeting deadlines. Another plus was the fact that the productivity level increased in the long run. 75 of people working under a toxic leader claimed that they would be leaving within the next year. While only 25 of the people said, they would stay.

The Same Study Proving Toxic Leadership to be Beneficial

The same study shed light on the fact that the average time period people stayed under a toxic leader was longer. Around seven years being the average time span an employee lasted under an abusive boss. On the contrary, it was surprising that the average period an employee lasted under a more cooperative boss was lesser. It was five years (Boddy Croft, 2016).. The fascinating findings included how some people admitted on their own that they lasted and worked with an abusive boss longer than a kinder one.

Balancing Home and Work Life

Many workers claimed that working under someone who is not very understanding can be very hard. It took a toll on their lives at home. Around 70 of workers claimed that they had conflicts in their life at home. When it comes to helpful and kind bosses, only 27 people complained.

Opportunities for Advancement

A large number of workers complained that working under a self-centered person reduced their chances of better opportunities (Anninos, 2018). More than 80 of employees told that they could not garner better chances in the corporate world because of the name they were attached to. Hardly 8 of workers complained that they had issues with a good boss.

Employed under a Merciless Boss

It might come as a surprise but working for a cutthroat boss is very common. More than 50 of the people working complained of having a boss who was not very understanding, and demanded work that could not be done in the given time (Edwards, Schedlitzki, Ward Wood, 2015). It has become a regular occurrence that harsh bosses exist. Nowadays, finding a good boss would be harder than a toxic boss.

Go All In Culture

It was also found that the organization that believed in the term Go big or go home were the ones, which had a more demanding boss (Seago, 2016). This kind of culture actually demands a leader to be robust with the workers in order to reach the required goals.

Conclusion

The Cooperate sector is becoming more ruthless by time. It is important that a less toxic environment is created for employees to be more creative. This concept of toxic leaders in killing the little creativity that the workers have. Organizations need to work on reducing this environment so the workers can be retained and productivity can be reinstalled.

References

Garrard, P., Garrard, Barlow. (2018).Leadership Hubris Epidemic. Palgrave Macmillan.

Boddy, C. R., Croft, R. (2016). Marketing in a time of toxic leadership.Qualitative Market Research An International Journal,19(1), 44-64.

Anninos, L. N. (2018). Narcissistic business leaders as heralds of the self-proclaimed excellence.International Journal of Quality and Service Sciences,10(1), 49-60.

Edwards, G., Schedlitzki, D., Ward, J., Wood, M. (2015). Exploring critical perspectives of toxic and bad leadership through film.Advances in Developing Human Resources,17(3), 363-375.

Seago, J. (2016). Toxic leaders, toxic culture internal auditors can identify unhealthy behaviors that may undermine the organization.Internal Auditor,73(3), 28-34.

PAGE

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BUSINESS AND MANAGEMENT

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Running head BUSINESS AND MANAGEMENT

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Subject: Business and Management

Pages: 3 Words: 900

Trafficked In America

Name of Student

Name of Professor

Name of Class

Day Month Year

Trafficked in America

Human trafficking is the trade of humans in which they are forced to work as laborers or sexual slaves. They are forced for extraction of their body organs and tissues including ovary removal and surrogacy. According to experts, the United States is ranked as one of the countries where human trafficking is at its peak. As per the report released by the State Department, victims of human tracking are found in three top countries and these countries are the United States, Mexico and the Philippines. Though it seems strange, it is a fact that immigration laws have contributed a lot to the increase in human trafficking of undocumented migrant teenager workers. First of all, there is no protection provided to immigrant teenagers by the immigration laws despite the fact that America has become one of the top countries where human trafficking is at the peak. Immigration laws imposed so many restrictions for the immigrants and especially these laws have created hurdles for those undocumented teenager farmworkers. They are forced to work in farms for helping their families in getting out of debt as immigration laws are imposing strict conditions so that a proper check and balance could be done upon the immigrants. Check and balance on immigrants is increasing the issues of undocumented immigrants (teenage farm workers) who cannot afford deportation. High risk of deportation has forced undocumented teenager farmworkers to bear the unjust as they are working in unsafe unhygienic and hard conditions. Immigration laws and their strictness (risk of deportation) force undocumented teenage farm workers to keep quiet and bear whatever is happening to them as being undocumented immigrants they are not given any protection by immigration laws.

Abuse of undocumented teenage migrant farmworkers has been like a hot button issue and immigration laws have compounded this issue. Immigrations are stricter than ever before. There are several immigrant laws i.e. Homeland security Act of 2002 that demands agencies to share the information of their employees so that national security and border control could be improved. This act of immigrant law also outlines specific requirements for handling children (undocumented teenager farm works) in border and immigration issues. Secondly, immigration laws have changed the policies and have implemented many new things. For example, “Enhanced Border Security and Visa Entry Reform Act” has imposed the compulsion that immigrants need to carry their IDs with biometric technology with them to avoid any hustle. Thirdly “Immigration Act” has increased legal immigration ceilings and prioritized the professional workers due to which undocumented teenage farmworkers are facing more issues and are forced to work at the lowest wages in the worst working conditions.

Companies that hire undocumented teenage farm workers must be held responsible for human trafficking and must be charged with labor trafficking because human trafficking is a crime and the land on which this crime is committed must be blamed. For instance, it has been seen that Trillium farm was in headlines back in 2014, because contracts forced undocumented teenage farmworkers to work at their farms for more than 16 hours a day and were forced to live like slaves where they were not even provided with basic life facilities. Companies that hire undocumented teenagers for work must be blamed for various reasons. Firstly they are directly or indirectly involved in human trafficking that is both illegal and immoral. Secondly, they are the violators of the federal and state laws as it is illegal to hire undocumented teenage workers just for personal benefits as they have to pay less to these farmworkers who lack proper documentation. Companies like Trillium farms must be liable for human trafficking as they are involved in illegal activities. Both documented and undocumented Teenage farmworkers are being abused and mistreated by several companies so they must be liable for taking advantage of the helpless teenagers who are working so that they could pull out their families of debt.

Yes, there must be laws for the teenagers that would protect them from crimes committed against them even if they are documented or undocumented. There are several ways through which they could turn into documented citizens but threats they face are far serious and horrible then this issue of documentation. Human trafficking has become one of the biggest issues that the United States is facing and teenagers are the most vulnerable for this crime. Most of the undocumented teenagers are working on farms and other places are being forced to do labor and sex work against their will but they have to keep silent as they know they would be deported if authorities would come to know that they are undocumented. Lack of documentation is the main factor that forces teenagers to bear pain, oppression, and crime being committed against them. If once they are made to realize that there are laws that would protect them whether they are documented or not, they would feel empowered to break the silence against the crime being committed against them. Law should be made for teenagers to protect them from any exploitation and for giving them basic human rights rather than considering whether they are documented or not. Legislation must be done that would favor teenagers as it would threaten and discourages those who are committing crimes against them. Criminals who abuse teenagers believe that a lack of documentation permits them to mistreat them. Lack of documentation and laws for their protecting teenagers both compel them to bear whatever happens against them which consequently is affecting both teenagers and the United States.

Reports and legal proceedings show that there are several cases in which undocumented farmworkers are being abused by many farm owners. There is a dire need of sorting out this issue by finding the best solution for protecting the undocumented farmworkers. One of the best solutions for protecting undocumented farmworkers from any abuse the government must focus on prioritizing the data collection. When agencies would pay more attention to gathering and maintaining data, they would be able to know more about the living and working conditions of employees (including undocumented farmworkers). It is an easy way of knowing and exploring why undocumented farmworkers come and how they are surviving at their workplaces. It would help authorities in having an effective inspection of the workplace. If this proposed solution is practiced properly and effectively undocumented teenagers would be saved from their exploitation. Policymakers should consider more ways that would help in prioritizing data collection and exchange of data. Undoubtedly, when there would be a proper record of workers (whether documented or undocumented) and their working conditions only then authorities could try to force the owner to provide a better working environment to their workers. Prioritization of data collection would also enable the agencies to benefit the undocumented teenage farmworkers who are forced to work under harsh and unfavorable conditions that threatens their lives as seen in this video farmworkers especially the teenagers found it hard to breathe in such as nasty place where they were living in containers where chickens were kept and that stinking place was threatening their health. .

Work Cited

https://www.pbs.org/wgbh/frontline/film/trafficked-in-america/

Subject: Business and Management

Pages: 4 Words: 1200

Training Program Design

Title page

Training program design

Introduction

The training is needed for improving communications between the organization and employees. It is crucial to create an internal communication plan for sharing information with the employees in a timely manner. The best approach for establishing an effective internal communications plan is by having a clear plan. The plan will be focused on building adequate interaction between the manager and employees. It reflects how teams work and coordinate on time. The internal communication plan is needed for removing negative outcomes such as the communication gap between manager and employees, delays in information sharing and miscommunication. The plan integrates functions in a unique manner that helps the organization to derive business outcomes such as increased productivity and attainment of goals. Communication plans are developed for several reasons such as for turning strategy into action, helping employees for managing change, addressing important issues like the sensitivity of employees or for the reduction of incidents. The best approach adopted for the creation of the plan includes establishing connectivity between the targeted audience and the goals.

Need for training

Effective communications skills training is needed for many reasons such as provides a clear roadmap for communicating with the employees consistently. It is crucial for keeping employees informed about the organizational goals and specific initiatives so they are capable of taking actions and helping in the achievement of goals. The training is important for defining internal communication strategies for focusing on how they can be implemented and measured for demonstrating value and impacts business. Another reason for adopting an internal communications training program is to keep the team focused and provide them with consistent guidance so they can out all efforts and spend time in the right manner. This prevents them from wasting time and managing things efficiently. It is also needed for enabling important conversations and engaging employees with business leaders. The patterns of internal communication training strategies improve the process of delivering key business needs and opportunities. Employees productivity is low due to limited or no trust between co-workers. lack of communications or the absence of adequate interaction causes low morale and job dissatisfaction. This often leads to a conflicting situation because employees are discouraged due to lack of support or recognition from an organization CITATION Mes08 \l 1033 (Akdere & Schmidt, 2008).

Different methods are available for the creation of an internal communications training program. The best strategy is to establish a plan that covers all aspects of the organization and fulfil all needs. The communication model selected for the organization must be easy and adaptable. A traditional approach stresses on considering the key components for choosing the right plan such as the current business situation or condition. Identification of business goals and aligning communication goals with them CITATION Cla183 \l 1033 (Estévez-Mujica & Quintane, 2018). This also requires determination of the target audience such as in the present case the purpose of the communications plan is to share the message with employees. The development of a practical plan also needs to identify the core message for sharing it with the audience. it is also important to highlight the ways in which the message will be communicated to the employees. This involves identification of the internal communication strategies, channels and tactics. The plan also provides a detailed overview of the dates and time in which activities will be managed. The organization in the process of creating a plan also needs to determine methods for measuring the progress of the plan. It is crucial for assuring that the plan is meeting the timeline and deadlines created for the completion of the communication plan. A brief and clear plan is more effective that share all contents of the plan inappropriate manner CITATION Pri15 \l 1033 (Sharma, Lampley, & Good, 2015).

Strategic impacts of training on the organization

The training program is linked to organizational success because employees learning to decode the message inappropriate manner are capable of performing tasks in an efficient manner. The strategies are focused on removing misunderstandings, poor interaction and workplace conflicts. Learning critical skills enhances the interaction of employees with the managers and stakeholders that results in improved competency of attaining organizational goals. The initial step required for the development of a practical training plan includes summarizing the organizational and business situation. Situational analysis is useful for promoting the need for communications. This involves mapping of the entire situation by incorporating business needs and conveying information to the key stakeholders about the change process. The training is important because each employee brings a unique set of skills at the workplace CITATION Mel14 \l 1033 (Gonzales, 2014). The communication gap undermines the organization's or manager's ability to identify their talents that can be used for attaining better organizational outcomes.

Motivation remains one of the dominant factors influenced by communications training. This will allow them to interpret the message on time and recognition of their skills or talent by the manager encourages them to do better. The training program stresses on establishing integration among co-workers that eliminates negative outcomes such as stress, low productivity and conflicting situations at workplace. By adopting such strategy the organization manages to remove negative emotions or concerns of employees. This will thus have positive impacts on the organization because employees will overcome workplace issues including conflicts and low productivity CITATION Mes08 \l 1033 (Akdere & Schmidt, 2008). Improved productivity is directly linked to increased organizational efficiency. A training program is also a practical tool for enhancing job satisfaction. By receiving and sharing information on the time the employees would feel part of the organization that will improve their job satisfaction.

Selected population

Training will be offered to 100 employees who are working at middle and lower levels of hierarchy. These employees are directly involved in the handling of organizational tasks.

Knowledge of trainee

The trainee knows that the communication plan is adopted for providing them better opportunities for enhancing their communications skills. Before the training program, they can conduct self-evaluation for identifying areas of their weaknesses. This will allow them to overcome their weaknesses by learning strategies in the training program. This will prepare them for accepting changes and working for improving their communication skills CITATION Fas16 \l 1033 (Oluwatoyin, 2016).

The trainer must know the purpose of the training program and participate in learning new methods of communications. Their preparedness is critical for the success of the training program. They must be able to accept suggestions and practice strategies suggested by the trainers.

A training program needs analysis

The training program is focused on adopting SMART solutions for offering effective communication. The training will offer guidelines for learning ways of communicating with coworkers, supervisors, managers and leaders inappropriate way and through right channels. Different approached will be adopted that will help employees in establishing communication skills. The program permits them to understand themselves and others at the workplace CITATION Cla183 \l 1033 (Estévez-Mujica & Quintane, 2018). They learn to show recognition and respect toward other employees. It is also focused on recognizing ways and respecting individual uniqueness. A training program is also a practical approach that assists employees in dealing with differences in communication styles that pose challenges of interpersonal conflicts CITATION Mel14 \l 1033 (Gonzales, 2014). Such steps will be useful for resolving the issue of low productivity arising due to inadequate communication skills. The training is also adopted for teaching employees to leverage individual strengths and adopt adequate communication strategies that minimize or eliminate conflicts. It also aims at learning ways for enhancing communication skills and influencing management skills. Such steps have direct impacts on personal and workplace productivity of employees CITATION Mel14 \l 1033 (Gonzales, 2014). Communication skills are also crucial for developing key competencies required for working for the attainment of organizational goals.

Training objectives

To develop effective communication skills among employees that will help them in integrating with managers and coworkers.

To offer training on understanding organizational goals aligning them with organizational goals.

To eliminate delays in information sharing, misunderstandings and communication gap.

Training program design

The training program will involve three months of the time period. Three months will be adequate time for providing detailed guidance about strategies and skills. There will be two training sessions each comprising of 45 days. The first session will focus on building effective communications. The second session will focus on building skills workplace relationships by teaching strategies of conflict resolution, building empathy and respect. The first session aims at familiarizing with effective communication strategies such as active listening and building awareness about the importance of communications CITATION Mes08 \l 1033 (Akdere & Schmidt, 2008). They will provide instructions about different ways of communicating such as using proper language and making it audible. This session will familiarize employees with various communication tools such as face-to-face interaction, voice call and email. These channels are effective mediums used for sharing information with accuracy. The session will provide guidance about creating appropriate emails for sharing with managers, supervisors and coworkers. This required teaching professional skills and is important for improving understanding of the communication means. The focus is also on developing realistic skills such as transmitting the right message at the right time. Employees will be encouraged to identify common factors that cause roadblocks to listening CITATION Cla183 \l 1033 (Estévez-Mujica & Quintane, 2018).

The employees are provided instructions on following appropriate ways during their interaction with others such as using an audible voice that can be heard by others. they will learn to make use of appropriate communication tool including text message or email. These strategies will allow the organization to build improved morale in employees and increase their productivity CITATION Pri15 \l 1033 (Sharma, Lampley, & Good, 2015). By learning the use of these tools the employees will learn to overcome the communication gap and respond to the employees in an effective manner. They will be provided with training to pay attention to the things that are going around them and respond in the right way. They are instructed to listen carefully to what people say and prepare the best response. The process will also teach ways of generating feedbacks for the managers and leaders. this will allow them to share their concerns inappropriate way to the authorities CITATION Mes08 \l 1033 (Akdere & Schmidt, 2008).

The second session aims at developing adequate communication skills that will result in the creation of a positive work relationship among employees. This will focus on familiarizing employees with strategies of building empathy and respect for fellow employees and resolving workplace conflicts. By teaching empathy the supervisors will encourage employees to accept viewpoints of coworkers. This will allow them to examine their attitude and their behaviour toward others. This suggests listening attentively to others including coworkers and managers. The attribute is useful for resolving conflicting situations because employees will learn to understand the concerns of fellow workers. Active listening and giving consideration to others is part of the communication plan. The attribute of empathy also suggests that the employees must adopt a polite tone during their interaction with the managers or coworkers. This will eliminate negative emotions that are critical for creating a positive work environment. By adopting a positive attitude the employees will be able to understand the viewpoint of colleagues. They are also suggested to remain flexible during their communications with others because it will allow them to share their feelings in the right manner. This also involves instructions on managing negative emotions such as anger, rudeness or a high tone CITATION Pri15 \l 1033 (Sharma, Lampley, & Good, 2015).

Facilitators

The organization will promote the most effective communicators on the positions of trainers and professionals having experience in communications and workplace management. This will include senior supervisors and managers who are capable of offering education on communications. The trainers will facilitate the employees by mentoring them and engaging interactive sessions. They will use training materials for providing adequate guidance and knowledge to the employees. The company will ensure that the managers selected as communicators understand their role and are committed to model effective communication skills. They must be competent for taking the role of leaders and develop their own communication styles for gaining experience in the job CITATION Fas16 \l 1033 (Oluwatoyin, 2016).

The trainers will be involved in developing team-building exercises that will offer opportunities for learning communication skills. performance appraisals will be conducted by experienced supervisors and managers for identifying how such skills can motivate them. The facilitators will provide open communications environment to the employees. Research reveals that “employees in open communication climates are heard, supported and understood. When employees are involved in the decision-making process they feel valued and begin to trust the communication channels and the information being shared with them” CITATION Mel14 \l 1033 (Gonzales, 2014). By creating an open environment employees will be able to share their concerns with managers or supervisors. This is an effective way of enhancing their loyalty and trust of leaders.

Conduction of training

The training will be conducted in the seminar hall of the firm. This will allow the organization to provide a proper learning environment by integrating technology and communication tools. The tools used for providing lectures include projectors and screens. This will build an interactive learning environment that increases the chances of building communication skills. The training sessions will involve taking feedbacks from the employees that will allow instructors to assess the level of communications and integrating changes accordingly.

Motivating employees

Employees will be motivated to take part in the training sessions by explaining to them the importance of communication skills in their careers and organization. They will be provided incentives such as bonuses for developing adequate communication skills and competency. Reward strategy will be adopted for promoting the morale of employees CITATION Cla183 \l 1033 (Estévez-Mujica & Quintane, 2018). Employees performing better in the training programs will be offered better rewards in the form of promotions and bonuses. The instructors will take feedback from employees that will also enhance their motivation.

Intended audience

The intended audience of the training program involves employees who are working in middle positions. These are responsible for managing most of the organizational work so by offering the training they will develop skills required for performing tasks with efficiency and accuracy. This will involve employees from diverse backgrounds who face difficulties in interacting with Native Americans such as Chinese, Latinos, Asians and Africans.

Support for employee development

The program will emphasize on offering support for the development of employees. This will include the provision of financial and moral support CITATION Mes08 \l 1033 (Akdere & Schmidt, 2008). The company will be responsible for arranging equipment and resources for the training of employees. Training and communication tools will be provided by the organization. The firm will also provide moral support such as by encouraging employees to participate in training. They will be offered a positive learning environment and continuous support from peers and managers.

References

Akdere, M., & Schmidt, S. W. (2008). Employee Perceptions of Quality Management: Effects of Employee Orientation Training. ERIC, 8, 13-21.

Estévez-Mujica, C. P., & Quintane, E. (2018). E-mail communication patterns and job burnout. PlosOne .

Gonzales, M. (2014). Hear What Employees Are Not Saying: A Review of Literature. Journal of Education and Training Studies, 2 (4).

Oluwatoyin, F. C. (2016). Leaders’ communication pattern: a predictor of lecturers’ job performance in Nigeria. International Journal of Educational Leadership and Management, 42 (2), 103-126.

Sharma, P., Lampley, J., & Good, D. (2015). Organizational Communication: Perceptions of Staff Members’ Level of Communication Satisfaction and Job Satisfaction. Journal of Academic Administration in Higher Education 43.

Subject: Business and Management

Pages: 8 Words: 2400

Transferable Skills Self Reflection

Transferable skills

The project allowed me to learn transferable skills such as leadership, conflict management, written and verbal communications. Transferable skills are crucial for career development and competing in the workplace. the best opportunity for developing such skills is by practical workplace experience. My involvement in the project of artificial intelligence permitted me to establish professional competency.

Leadership is the primary skills that I explored during the project. I was able to demonstrate my capability of leading in different scenarios. I had taken responsibility for explaining the contents of artificial intelligence to the team members. Another skill that I developed is teamwork. The project provided me the opportunity to work with the team in a collaborative manner. I assured that my involvement in the project makes a valuable contribution. With the team, I focused on attaining the project goals and managed to resolve conflicts CITATION Kim18 \l 1033 (Elsbach & Ileana Stigliani, 2018). I learned the art of handling employees from different cultural backgrounds.

Based on my transferable skills my goal will be to use my leadership and communication skills in future projects. My goal includes excelling in a career by enhancing my ability in handling workplace issues. I also intend to utilize all learned skills for securing a better career. I believe I still need to learn techniques for resolving conflicting situations. The project was useful for enhancing my communication skills. I learned the tactics of interacting with the colleagues and manager inappropriate manner.

My participation in the project allowed me to establish transferable skills that will help me in my future career prospects. I used my leadership skills for sharing ideas and solutions with my colleagues. Written communications allowed me to present a concise report on the project. Without transferable skills, one cannot survive in the competitive job industry.

Reference

BIBLIOGRAPHY Elsbach, K. D., & Ileana Stigliani. (2018). Design Thinking and Organizational Culture: A Review and Framework for Future Research. Journal of Management.

Subject: Business and Management

Pages: 1 Words: 300

Transmittal Letter

Letter of Transmittal

January 2nd, 2014

Mr. ABC

Instructor, xyz

Dear Mr. ABC,

As proposed in the Memorandum, the respective report is prepared on the selected topic i.e. Market and Finance Analysis for the company ‘Arrow.’

The report focuses on fundamental financial and budgetary challenges being faced by the US company because of various company based, trade and federal policies; competitiveness, etc. The report will specifically focus on financial management of the company, American market analysis, competitive analysis, competitive edge and revenue generation in recent times. Based on the results drawn for these factors, we have made certain recommendations for the company to ensure improved benefits and market sustenance.

According to the finings of the research study, it has been recommended to the company that It must focus the most on is increasing the amount of money we are spending on advertising and our rebate offers. While doing this the company will also need to continue to increase the number of retail outlets that the brand is available in and the number of models available for the consumer. Doing these things will not only separate ourselves from our closest competitors, but the company will begin to see a higher market share at the wholesale level.

The proposal will provide a brief explanation of the benefits that can be obtained from financial market analysis along with the cost-benefit analysis of this department in long term and in short term.

I request you to consider the proposal for future business development of our company.

I hope you find this report satisfactory. 

Sincerely yours, MNO, student

Subject: Business and Management

Pages: 1 Words: 300

Transportation Management

Transportation Management

Assignment name or number

Author's name

University name

Course number

Date

Abstract

This paper focuses on the benefits of having to implement the Internet of Things technology into the transportation framework. Internet of Things is a system of interconnected devices that can communicate with each other and obtain information regarding any particular command. Internet of Things allows users to connect to the devices from anywhere at any time or any place. This freedom in movement is a great benefit to these products. Furthermore, the transportation system is an integral part of any country and can benefit very much through the implementation of such technology. Through the use of this technology, the transportation system can be smooth and without delay. Furthermore, with the use of such technologies loss of life and driver negligence can be minimized to the highest extent. Furthermore, the research carried out in this paper is more of a qualitative nature and has produced some very forthcoming results that support the research question. Moreover, the research has certain limitation regarding the negligence of security challenges that are presented by the use of the Internet of Things based products.

Transportation Management

Introduction

Transportation is the movement of people and goods from one place to the other. There are several modes of transportation currently in use such as motor vehicles, railways, airways, ships, canals, and roads. A transport system is sustainable when basic access and needs of individuals and organizations are met. To improve the current transport and infrastructure system currently implemented growing interest in the implementation of the Internet of things has been seen around the world. The application of the Internet of Things in transportation has been growing at a very fast pace and especially in countries such as South Africa. It has also been expected that the transport system is one of the many industries that is expected to show high growth in the implementation of the Internet of things. Whereas, globally the market for the Internet for Things in transportation is expected to show an increase in growth of around a hundred and ninety-five billion dollars by the year 2020. This paper researches how the Internet of Things can be implemented in the current transport system. For this paper looks at the literature behind the topic and devises a different methodology to test if the Internet of Things has been successfully implemented in transportation. Furthermore, the results would be discussed and interpreted keeping in light of the limitations and recommendations.

Internet of Things

Internet of Things is the newest technology that has revolutionized how the world works. The basic function of the Internet of Things is that it helps electronics to recognize, obtain and communicate information and can access information from other devices. Furthermore, through the use of Internet of Things, people and machines can connect at anyplace at any time. This involves making a connection between the real tangible world and the virtual world. Through the use of algorithms that can make decisions in software applications appropriated responses can be given to any electronic device. This way smart technologies can connect to their users at any place they want.

Over the past, there has been huge growth in the Internet of things industry and is still an emerging trend for both the researchers and in various industries. Through the use of Internet of Things different networks such as different objects, devices and sensors are connected by communication information infrastructure. This system then provides value-added services for applications through the use of intelligent processing of data and management. This allows everyday devices to be connected and are also able to identify themselves to other devices. It includes sensory technology such as RFID chips but there are other sensory technologies also being used.

Literature Review

Internet of Things has great potential in every walk of life as it improves the current system working within any country. In the area of transportation, the Internet of Things is revolutionizing the current system in place. In cities around the world, the transportation system is changing through the use of the internet of things. One example of this is the implementation Of Smart cities, where every aspect of the city especially transportation would be controlled through the use of Internet of Things (Wantmure and Dhanawade, 2106). The use of this emerging technology has been extremely helpful in laying down the basis of such an extraordinary plan. Furthermore, Chong and Sung, (2015) have found that the use of the Internet of Things has been very influential in increasing road safety on the roads. To do this they examined real cases in terms of road management and the systems that are involved with them. Upon analysis, they found that the technologies and systems in place for road management were being greatly benefitted through the use of smart technologies such as the Internet of Things. Further analysis was required to take into account certain factors such as traffic information, status information, and weather information, which are an important aspect for the management of road safety.

Moreover researchers such as Bijjaragi and Tijare, (2016), further analyzed how the use of the Internet of Things can help in reducing the rising traffic. With the rise in traffic, it is becoming increasingly difficult to store high amounts of data using the traditional software's that are available at hand. They found that that appliance connected through the Internet of Things software is a very important tool that can help in with this sort of problem. This is because they found that through the use of Internet of Things they have access to the high storage amount and is also able to access computing power that can analyze those huge amounts of data. Furthermore, Zeng, (2015) focused on the challenges that the transport industry is facing and how the use of the Internet of Things can be helpful in this regard. He found that the use of Internet of Things in this sense would have great advantages and can also solve the challenges arising from the traditional system of traffic management. The author further proposes the overhaul of the traditional system and the implementation of intelligent transport system through the use of Internet of Things. The implementation of such technologies can help in the average speed on the road, checking and controlling the movement of counterfeit vehicles and mapping out the path of a certain vehicle.

Zhang and Yuan, (2015) carry this work forward and also emphasize on the implementation of a transport system that is intelligent and is an integral part of the formation of a smart city. They also emphasize the importance of implementing of Internet of Things in the current system. This way an intelligent traffic control system can be designed that will be able to analyses a large amount of data. Examples of Lanzhou City in China can be given where this system was used. The system designed in this city was analyzed using Big GPS data and worked on predicting the flow of the traffic. This became one of the important parts of a smart city. Same as the different researchers above, implementation of the Internet of Things technology can be very helpful in traffic management as well. For transportation, the smart and effective management of traffic is very important and can be easily done using the smart Internet of Things. This leads to an increase in efficient motion within cities. The implementation of such a system can lead to decreasing travel time by twenty-five percent and forty percent decrease in wait time. This Internet of Things based system analyses the flow of traffic in real-time and the data collected will be sent to an AI that will reduce congestion on roads. This helps in accommodating both mobility and safety for the users of transportation in every corner of the world. This system further shares with other traffic systems within an entire city or region to identify and anticipate the flow of traffic in that region. Furthermore, with the data gathered by the Internet of Things based traffic management system, traffic incidents can be reduced. This can be done through the use of predicting software that uses the information gathered from the Internet of Things based sensors and can detect potential impacts. Then the systems can alert vehicles and present alternative routes that lead to avoiding of congestion and any potential traffic incident.

Researchers such as Yashaswini and Janhavi, (2016), also highlighted the importance of incorporating the Internet of Things into the transport system for increasing effectiveness of road management. This can be easily done in a large number of heterogeneous systems and can provide access to data that can be used for a high number of digital services. The use of Internet of Things supports a sense of ubiquity and allows for the connection of devices from anywhere at any time. Furthermore, the use of the Internet of Things was found to be useful in tracking human behavior and activities in real-time. This can be helpful in the tracking of dangerous individuals within any required area in a smart city. Furthermore, the use of Internet of Things in transportation infrastructure can help reduce the mismanagement of transport infrastructure. This includes potholes, collapsed bridges, which can prove too deadly and can lead to a huge loss of life. Timely maintenance of transport infrastructure is proving to be an arduous task due to the presence of a multitude of roads and bridges within any certain region or city. Internet of Things sensors can be very helpful in this manner as they can help in monitoring the structural state of the transport infrastructure and can alert the proper authorities regarding any impending transportation infrastructure collapse. Internet of Things based sensors can provide real-time data regarding the structural status of any transport infrastructure. Furthermore, it can help in diverting any sort of traffic from areas of hazard. With the addition of road surface sensors under the road can effectively monitor the condition of the road surface and the environment. Couple that with the sensors in the car, drivers would be alerted about the conditions of the road beforehand.

Kale, et al, (2015), also focused on the importance of the Internet of Things in controlling the rise in population and its effect on increasing traffic. The population is rising at a very high pace and is causing an increase in traffic problems. In this sense, this research has found that the implementation of the Internet of Things within the traffic management system can help in curbing any traffic-related problems. This can be done by providing users with information regarding the traffic situation within different parts of a country that has implemented the Internet of Things into their road management system. Furthermore, this will result in reducing congestion and accidents and life-threatening incidents and overall will be able to save precious time and resources. Gade, et al, (2016) focused their research on how wide the use of Internet of Things has gotten in the world. The world is increasingly getting more and more connected and this rate of connectivity is increasing at a steady rate. Studies have shown that around fifty billion devices are and will be connected by the year 202. This indicates the importance the Internet of Things has in the current society and how beneficial it can be in every walk of life. This research has found that its implementation in the current transport system will help in developing technologies that can cater to the problems of the world. Lastly, Sandhu et al, (2015), focused their research on how using the Internet of Things type of software's to manage the performance of traffic systems. Using such technologies reaction time to the changing traffic conditions and patters can be increased. This will be even better than the traditional traffic management model, where the lights on the traffic signals are based on fixed time intervals. However, through the use of an intelligent traffic control system would able to control the traffic better by managing the time taken to change the traffic signals based on the density of traffic on both sides of the road.

Furthermore, research has found that there is a huge market Internet of Things based devices in the transport industry. Smart car technology has been highly appreciated and has become one of the safest modes of transportation recently. This type of vehicle is equipped with technologies such as short-range communications or 4G/LTE cellular devices. This helps in enhancing the communication between the vehicle, the infrastructure and any other obstacle that might come in between the proximal range. These autonomous cars Internet of Things technologies implemented within them that connect the various sensors within the car and the vehicle operating system. These type of vehicles can help in increasing productivity by fifty minutes for each individual and on a global level, it can be calculated around one billion hours. These can also help in spreading the demand for travel and increase the chance of on-demand mobility choices. This can be done by implementing a multi-model network of transportation and will overall result in the decreasing of vehicles on the road.

Methodology

To conduct valid research, the method or methodology is very important. Methodology decides the validity of the research regarding the implementation of the Internet of Things in transportation while focusing on how the data for this research proposal was collected. Furthermore, this section also focuses on how the data collected for this research proposal would be done. In light of these things, this research paper will focus its research methodology based on qualitative research. Qualitative research is an exploratory form of research that seeks to identify the underlying reason for any issue being discussed in certain research.

For the case of this research paper, qualitative research is being used to identify the potential benefits of implementing Internet of Things based products into transportation. Qualitative data would be collected to identify the trends and opinions regarding the implementation of such kind of technology into the transportation network within any city, region or country. This will allow for the formation of how well Internet of Things technologies can integrate into the current framework of transportation and how well either they improve or hinder the daily operations carried out in the transportation industry. The data would mostly be taken from government websites and journal articles to bring to light an informed opinion regarding the research topic being researched.

Results

The result of the research has shown that the implementation of the Internet of Things based applications in transportation can be highly beneficial. This conclusion was reached by collecting data regarding the tradition transportation system being used in comparison with the data regarding cities that have implemented Internet of Things based products into their transportation system. It has been identified that the used Internet of Things in transportation has been very beneficial by lowering the volume of traffic or decreasing the number of road accidents and incidents. Furthermore, through the implementation of such technology, there was a sharp decrease in any congestion or road blockage within the areas that this technology was implemented.

Moreover, upon further research, it was found that drivers preferred the use of Internet of Things based products such as sensors in the transportation framework or infrastructure. It helped them identify roads, flyovers, and bridges that were hazardous or were not up to code and had a chance of breaking. This could lead to loss of life and loss of an important part of the transportation infrastructure. Also, it was identified that the implementation of the Internet of Things based sensors under roads led to a decrease in congestion at certain interjections and saved time and money of the users. This way it was able to inform the user of any inconvenience that they might suffer during their journey.

Discussion

The results of the research have been very eye-opening regarding the importance of the Internet of Things based products can have on transportation. It showed how these small interconnected devices can be really helpful to the transportation system. Furthermore, it showed that their implementation can be beneficial for transportation as it can increase its efficiency. Also, as the traditional system is not able to handle large amounts of data so that it could make an informed decision regarding the best decision for the users of the transportation system, Internet of Things based product can be more helpful. This is because the Internet of Things based products are interconnected and are easily able to handle and analyze large amounts of data.

Through the use, an intelligent decision-making algorithm Internet of Things based products can easily handle large amounts of data. This data is then used by this algorithm to make decisions that can control the flow of traffic and minimize any sort of inconvenience for the average man. Furthermore, with the use of the Internet of Things based products journey time will also be reduced and this can be helpful in times of emergency. This will be done by managing the traffic light system in the transportation infrastructure based on the volume of the different sides of the road. This will decrease congestion, long waiting hours and the rise of any health problems due to being stuck long in traffic under the hot sun.

Limitation

The limitation within the research is purely based on the negligence of the security challenges regarding the Internet of Things based products. Internet of Things based products are products with highly sophisticated software within them which leaves them open to malicious malware attacks if their security is not maintained up to date. This makes security the most critical limitation of using an Internet of Things based product in transportation and the transportation infrastructure. Now the problem of security is very vast and covers certain very important aspects regarding such products. Most of the time there is a lack of skills required for the implementation of such sophisticated products. Any disruption in the level of skill in any part of manufacturing and implementation of Internet of Things based products can prove to be very detrimental for the entire system. Moreover, the cost of implementation of the Internet of Things based products is very high and implanting security measure within such a technology that is already very costly can prove to be a deal-breaker for most. Furthermore, there is also an issue of privacy protection regarding the Internet of Things based products. As there is access to anyone and anywhere to such products there is a high chance that the security of sensitive data can be at high risk. Furthermore, if the privacy risk is covered somehow, then there is the challenge of the Internet of Things architecture. This is because of each component within this interconnected system each device as its own set of protocols and standards that it uses for communication. This might to an ununified standardization of the Internet of Things based products. Another limitation in this research was not identifying the level of data that Internet of Things based products can handle. It is a widely accepted view that these products can handle large amounts of data but as the data increases at a high rate than the storage of this data becomes a problem. This leads to further creating problems for data protection as well.

Recommendation

The implementation of the Internet of Things based products can be very beneficial for transportation. It can decrease travel and wait time and can be very helpful in saving lives. It is a very much case that there are some security issues with implementing such devices but in a reality where there is a risk, there is a reward. The best thing would be to implement such devices and have them operated in such a way that they notify the user when they need to be upgraded or maintenance is required. This way they provide the best service to the transportation infrastructure and no extra cost is incurred.

Conclusion

This research paper focuses on the importance of implementation of the Internet of Things based products into the transportation framework. Research has suggested that the implementation of such products into the transportation framework can be highly beneficial for not just the current framework but also the user of the transportation system. Furthermore, the results of this research were quite promising but the limitations regarding the Internet of Things based products need to be looked at before the implementation of such products.

References

Bijjaragi, K., & Tijare, P. (2016). Big Data Approach for Secure Traffic Data Analytics using Hadoop” in International Journal on Recent and Innovation Trends in Computing and Communication.

Chong, K., & Sung, H. (2015, October). Prediction of road safety using road/traffic big data. In The International Conference on Semantic Web Business and Innovation (SWBI2015) (p. 23).

Gade, N. R., Gade, N. R., & Reddy, G. U. (2016). Internet of things (IoT) for the smart cities-The future technology revolution. Global Journal of Computer Science and Technology.

Kale, P., Salot, R., & Thakkar, R. M. (2015). Business Analytics in Traffic Management System. International Journal of Computer Applications, 126(12).

Sandhu, S. S., Jain, N., Gaurav, A., Sriman, N. C., & Iyengar, N. (2015). Agent based intelligent traffic management system for smart cities. International journal of smart home, 9(12), 307-316.

Wantmure, R., & Dhanawade, M. (2016), Use Of Internet Of Things For Building Smart Cities In India. NCRD’s Technical Review.

Yashaswini, K., Janhavi, V. (2016). A Survey on Internet of Things approach for Smart Eco-System. In International Journal of Advanced Research in Computer and Communication Engineering.

Zeng, G. (2015). Application of big data in intelligent traffic system. IOSR Journal of Computer Engineering, 17(1), 01-04.

Zhang, X., & Yuan, Z. (2015, November). Traffic flow prediction based on the location of big data. In 5th International Conference on Civil Engineering and Transportation. Atlantis Press.

Subject: Business and Management

Pages: 11 Words: 3300

TSM 3105

Future of Hotel Industry in WA

[Name of the Writer]

[Name of the Institution]

Future of Hotel Industry in WA

Within the past few years, it has been observed a dramatic expansion and transformation of the hotel industry in Western Australia. The industry seems to be growing due to an increase in tourism. There are a number of trends that are emphasized due to this change such as art, sustainability, individualism, and localism. A rough estimate is that a minimum of 200 new hotels will be added to the hotel inventory of Australia by 2025. The matter of fact is that hospitality is considered to be the largest sector of the broader Tourism industry of WA which tends to contribute more than $1,84B to the state economy. There is no doubt that the hotel industry in WA has continued a run of strong performance. Moreover, the hotel industry is projected for sustaining strong growth in upcoming years.

There are some analysts that are concerned about the industry. The reason for that is quite simple as they consider the hotel industry to be cyclic. However, one thing that must be taken into consideration is the fact that the optimist outnumbers pessimists. The matter of fact is that in upcoming years, it will be seen an increase in the hoteliers looking for an opportunity in strategic places. As the overall profit due to hotel industries in West Australia is seem to be nice and is undoubtedly attractive towards investors, there is a high chance for the growth of this industry in the future. The development of Western Sydney Airport is undoubtedly a benefit for West Australia as it will result in an increase in tourism. Tourism and hotel industry pertains to have a deep connection as both are in support of each other. There is no doubt that the direct flights from Perth to London and Shanghai to Perth will boost the hospitality industry of Western Australia.

References

‘Hotels of the Future’ changing Australia’s hotel industry today. (2019). The Hotel Conversation. Retrieved 6 April 2019, from https://www.thehotelconversation.com.au/news/2018/10/04/%E2%80%98hotels-future%E2%80%99-changing-australia%E2%80%99s-hotel-industry-today/1538601355

Bankwest.com.au. (2019). [online] Available at: https://www.bankwest.com.au/content/dam/bankwest/documents/business/insights/focus-on-hospitality-2018.pdf [Accessed 6 Apr. 2019].

Hospitality. (2019). FutureNow – Creative and Leisure Industries Training Council Inc. Retrieved 6 April 2019, from http://www.futurenow.org.au/hospitality.html

Subject: Business and Management

Pages: 1 Words: 300

TSM3105 Assignment 2

TSM3105 assignment 2

Regulating the home-sharing industry in West Australia: Boon or Bane?

Chris

Regulating the home-sharing industry in West Australia: Boon or Bane?

Introduction:

The tourism industry of Western Australia (WA) has seen rapid growth in recent years with more visitors and tourists per capita than any other Australian region. A large majority of the tourists hail from countries such as UK, USA, Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, Japan, and China. The industry contributes approximately $12 billion to the local economy which forms roughly 6% of the West Australian gross domestic product (GDP), while simultaneously employing 104,000 people4.

The booming tourist industry has supported the West Australian economy and local citizens in an unprecedented way. The economy of West Australia has faced a tough recession for almost an entire decade. The main trigger of this recession was the global financial crash of 2008 which made the West Australian economy tread at meager GDP growth of less than 2%. While investments in the mining, mineral and agricultural sectors have picked up, it would take several years before their gains are fully realized. Considering this gloomy economic scenario, the fast-growing tourist industry offers West Australians a ray of hope3. According to some unofficial surveys, the West Australian tourism industry shall add more than 200 hotels by 2025. However, there is more to the story.

The modern-day information technologies are revolutionizing nearly all aspects of our lives and the tourist industry is no exception. A popular online service called Airbnb has added a lot of variety and options for the tourists and local communities all around the world2. The basic idea is that any person can rent her room, her apartment, or her entire house to tourists visiting the locality. This increases the size of the tourism industry and offers additional income to the common citizens of the local community.

Boon or a bane?

Over the years, the home-sharing industry has become an integral part of the overall tourism industry. This integration has occurred to such an extent that clear winners and losers have surfaced from such an arrangement. For instance, many stakeholders in the hotel and recreation business have opposed Airbnb and similar services offering home-sharing due to the fact that they offer strong competition to them. Moreover, on average, the home-sharing industry is not subject to stringent regulations and taxation as the hotels and recreational spots1. Besides, there are other communal concerns as well such as citizens fearing a loss of sense of community and safety. There have also been reports that the prices of real estate have fallen in those neighborhoods who frequently rent their homes via Airbnb.

This brings us to the central research problem of this proposal: Should WA authorities regulate and/or tax the home-sharing industry in general and Airbnb in particular, considering that such a move clearly violates the principles of a laissez-faire economy and might benefit the local hotel industry at the cost of ordinary hosts and domestic/international tourists. For the purpose of the main paper, a majority of the information will be collected through secondary sources on the internet such as blogs, newspaper articles, think-tank reports, etc.

Conclusion:

Airbnb has introduced the concept of home-sharing in the modern world and completely revolutionized the tourism industry. While it has benefited the tourist industry and local economies in unprecedented ways, many governments have clamped down on it, viewing its

adverse effects on the local communities. In this proposal, I ask the question that whether the WA government should regulate Airbnb considering that it is offering tremendous benefits to the local citizens and economy. Besides, these regulations might benefit the powerful hotel industry stakeholders while penalizing the local hosts and tourists. For the purposes of research, I shall be completely using secondary sources.

End Notes

TUN, Z. "Top Cities Where Airbnb Is Legal Or Illegal". 2019. Investopedia. Accessed April 27 2019. https://www.investopedia.com/articles/investing/083115/top-cities-where-airbnb-legal-or-illegal.asp.

FOLGER, J. "Airbnb: Advantages And Disadvantages". 2019. Investopedia. Accessed April 27 2019. https://www.investopedia.com/articles/personal-finance/032814/pros-and-cons-using-airbnb.asp.

BCEC. "The Impact Of Airbnb On WA's Tourism Industry: BCEC Report". 2016. BCEC. Accessed April 27 2019. http://bcec.edu.au/publications/the-impact-of-airbnb-on-was-tourism-industry/.

Tourism Western Australia. "Economic Contribution". 2019. Tourism Western Australia. Accessed April 27 2019. https://www.tourism.wa.gov.au/Research-Reports/Latest_Visitor_Facts_and_Figures/Pages/Economic-Contribution-of-Tourism-to-WA.aspx#/.

The impact of Airbnb in Western Australia. (2019). Bcecreports.edu.au. Retrieved 27 April 2019, from http://bcecreports.edu.au/airbnb/supply.html

"Substantial Growth In Airbnb Supply And Demand In WA: New Report - News And Events | Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia". 2017. News And Events. Accessed April 27 2019. https://news.curtin.edu.au/media-releases/substantial-growth-airbnb-supply-demand-wa-new-report/.

Subject: Business and Management

Pages: 2 Words: 600

Twill Enterprises Case Study

Twill Enterprises Case Study

Your Name (First M. Last)

Date

Twill Enterprises Case Study

Background of the Case

Twill Enterprises Limited recognized as the growing business entity in the corporate field of printing and packaging industry. It is vital to mention that different strategic approaches are adopted by the higher management of the company to ensure the successful attainment of anticipated growth. The main idea of strategic management of the organization linked with the proper exploration and utilization of all market opportunities. The management of the organization is a concern to have the necessary knowledge about the performance of each department to effectively avail different options of business growth and development.

7Ss for Twill Enterprises

Comprehensive characterization of all the seven elements of the 7Ss framework is essential to make better inferences about the overall organizational domain of the company. The context of 7Ss comprised on the assessment of strategy, structure, systems, style, skills, staff, and shared value of Twill Enterprises Limited

Strategy

The main idea of the strategy adopted by Twill based on three main aspects of goals, product market strategy, and competitive strategy

The main focus of the owner of the organization is to ensure the growth of the company as large and profitable family business.

Product market strategy is another significant strategic perspective adopted by the organization. Expansion of the market is one main focus to attain competitive strength in business.

One crucial strategic paradigm adopted by the organization to ‘test the waters’ considering all product entries.

The strategy of low-cost operations is adopted by the organization to achieve a competitive edge in the market concerning the features of price and distinctive service.

Structure

Twill adopts the approach of functional management structure.

The organization of Twill is committed to developing the idea of decentralization in its operational structure.

Systems

Proper hierarchy of the management positions developed in the organizational setting.

The organization establishes strict operational management systems.

On-line electronic data interchange (EDI) system is applied by the firm when it comes to order processing.

Style

The administration of the organization follows a strict management style.

Transactions paradigms of the organization are assessed by higher management.

Skills

Development of necessary experience and skills are required as the obligatory working areas.

Staff

Internal promotion, job security, and profit sharing are significant practical measures adopted by the organization to encourage its workers.

Pay structure apply in the organization is above industry averages

Shared Value

Establishment of Management Assistant Program to enhance the phenomenon of shared value.

The culture of the organization based on this fact that managers ask questions to the workers about performance.

Assessment of the Fit between Twill’s Strategy and Other 6Ss

Proper alignment between Twill’s strategy and other elements of the 7Ss framework is crucial to meet actual organizational objectives

Product market strategy is the focus of the management to ensure the objective of the functional structure of the firm.

Roles are clearly defined for all the stakeholders to meet the better form of organizational strategy.

Strict check and balance assessment styles are adopted in the organization to evaluate workers’ performance.

The organizational objective of expanding market is associated with the development of workers’ skills which are required.

Workers are the main asset of the organization. The strategy of shared knowledge ensures the necessary involvement of all shareholders.

Different initiatives are offered by the organization to meet the standard of market expansion.

Recommendations for Twill to Ensure Successful Implementation of the Strategy

In conclusion, it is recommended for the organization of Twill Enterprises Limited is to change its strategy related to all the concerns of its management programs. It is beneficial for the organization to develop some better forms of growth to deal with different constraints of decentralization. There should be a comprehensive understanding of organizational structure at all managerial levels.

Subject: Business and Management

Pages: 2 Words: 600

Two Assignments - Case Study

Case Study

[Name of the Writer]

[Name of the Institution]

Case Study

Assessment No 1

Cover Letter

12 February 2019

Hotel Manager,

X.Y.Z

Dear Manager,

In compliance with the feedback collected from the customer satisfaction questionnaires. It is inferred that feedback comprises of “unpleasant experiences”, rather than an approach towards the analysis of experience that can be used to bring improvement. Although unpleasant incidents are a tool to address the issues and sources that paved the way for evaluation, it is also brought into insight that the questionnaires were void of any suggestion or alternative option that can allow a customer to give certain suggestions. I hope that this summary would be sufficient to convey the crux of evaluation.

Thank you

Sincerely,

X.Y.Z

Report

Introduction

In accordance with the presentation of the evaluation of performance questionnaires, the subject to report refers to the concerns collected from questionnaires. The questionnaires were meant for the evaluation of customer service and complications customers are facing in services. The questionnaires reflected a detailed account of the facts and figures that can pave the way for the analysis of customer's feedback.

Discussion

An analysis of the customer’s feedback and questionnaire forms highlight that there is a great gap between the actual and supposed framework of customer services. It is centered that the questionnaires and feedback reflects that customers were not concerned with the performance and quality of service provided, in fact, the questionnaires refer to the gaps and uncomfortable experiences. The collection of “unpleasant experiences” can act as a guide to know the sources and basics of the issue. The evaluation of the customer service can ultimately refer to the fact that caused inconvenience and created a gap in the provision of service. (Sainaghi, et, al. 2019). However, a critical evaluation of the questionnaires can also be used to adhere to the quality reference of service.

Certain unpleasant experiences include lack of cooperation, delay in service and the ignorance of priority requests. It is also important to note that the questionnaires had a detailed account of the facts in the form of unpleasant experiences that can approach the basic crux of an issue. Another aspect to be highlighted is, the questionnaires did not contain any space for the “suggestions” and “alternatives” that can be opted in order to address the issue. Side by side, the questionnaire that was distributed to the customers were not much detailed to address the aim of discussion, taking into account that in the context of customer service, there is always space for suggestions and alternatives, but the questionnaires lack suggestion section.

Conclusion

An overall analysis reveals that there are certain aspects that are found such as an explanation of facts and figures portrayed in questionnaires. A depiction of varied responses highlighted that there is a gap in the context of questionnaires because questionnaires are meant to undergo an exegetical analysis of the subject mentioned. Lack of platform for suggestion and alternative option inferred that there should be a section that can invite customer’s suggestion and help organisers as well as service provider to grasp the deficiencies directly. (Zhao, et, al. 2019). The depictions of unpleasant experiences are diverse, and there can be several references to a single issue that is hard to tackle. However, suggestions are a major tool to extract feedback.

Question No 2

Feedback Form

An adequate customer feedback form comprises of following details

Overall Evaluation of service

Satisfied

Neutral

Not Satisfied

Vigilance

Cooperation

Friendliness

Attitude

Services

Quickness

Environment

Would you like to use our service in future?

Yes

No

Maybe

What are the suggestions you would like to give for improvement of service?

Please rate your overall experience out of 5.

References

Sainaghi, R., Phillips, P., Baggio, R., & Mauri, A. (2019). Hotel performance: Rigor and relevant research topics. International Journal of Hospitality Management, 78, 13-26.

Zhao, Y., Xu, X., & Wang, M. (2019). Predicting overall customer satisfaction: Big data evidence from hotel online textual reviews. International Journal of Hospitality Management, 76, 111-121.

Assessment No 2

Question No 1

Customer satisfaction and adequate services is the core of meeting. The agenda of meeting is to maximise consumer standards and fulfil them adequately. The meeting centred on the ambition to adhere to the needs of consumers and efforts that can be made to fulfil the emerging needs. The goal of the meeting is to get an insight into the facts and figures that can bring about future prospects side by side compete with the trending aspects of marketing, shipping and production. (Richards, et, al. 2019). The collection of data of customers and the maintenance of past records is also the central theme of meeting. There are certain minor aspects of the meeting as well, referring to the evaluation of the employees who are unable to address the current happening in terms of customer satisfaction and data analysis.

Question No 2

Target market refers to the”consumers group”. Taking into account the context of Biham Company, the target market of the company is “tailor-made consumers” as well as people who look ahead for innovation in the context of manufacturing, as well as distribution. It would not be wrong to say that the target market of Biham Company is the population who is more professional and look ahead for better services and up to date products.

Question No 3

The business can change the goals by changing its organisational structure that caters the needs of consumer. It refers to inferring certain in strategies that can deal with the changing desires of consumers. Change in the actual substance of the product and to make it equal to customer desire can also change the business goals. Adopting new strategies of approaching customers and the provision of goods to customers is also a plan that can fulfil the required goals. The continuous improvement processes in customer service can also be addressed by adhering to the emerging needs and creating platforms that can keep the customers in contact with the company. An analysis of the feedback can also be used as a major tool because feedback can evaluate the customer’s need by adhering to the analysis of approaching threats and competitive market that is trying to attract as many consumers as they can. (Richards, et, al. 2019). Bringing innovations in terms of use as well as the use of social media and other technical aspects that can keep customers up to date and highlight every new launch can help to meet the continuously growing demands and needs of customers.

Question No 4

Yes, attention to customer services is a major tool that can be employed in every type of business to attract more consumers and maintain the consumer's profile. Customer service is not confined to the realms of being courteous with customers. Customer service has the potential to impact the bottom line of business because it is affirmed that any company lacking adequate customer service has observed a downfall. Businesses like investment and marketing are a prime section that should consider customer services because the major section of progression is attained from customer services. (Richards, et, al. 2019). Taking into account other business, it would not be wrong to say that the major section of each market deals with customers and there would be no production without customers. Either major or minor but one cannot deny the importance of customer services. All the strategies that are applied in a single scenario can be applied in other sections, highlighting that one way or other, all the strategies and actions that are related to customer service are justified. In a nutshell, an exegetical analysis reveals that customer satisfaction and customer service is the prime tool that can address the progress of any organisation.

References

Richards, G., Yeoh, W., Chong, A. Y. L., & Popovič, A. (2019). Business intelligence effectiveness and corporate performance management: an empirical analysis. Journal of Computer Information Systems, 59(2), 188-196.

Wikhamn, W. (2019). Innovation, sustainable HRM and customer satisfaction. International Journal of Hospitality Management, 76, 102-110.

Subject: Business and Management

Pages: 4 Words: 1200

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