Marks Spencer an Analysis of the Demand for a MS Simply Food Convenience Store in Complexe Desjardins Essay Example

Marks Spencer: an Analysis of the Demand for a MS Simply Food Convenience Store in Complexe Desjardins Essay INTRODUCTION In this report we assess whether an MS Simply Food convenience store would be profitable when located in Complex Desjardins, Montreal. In the U. K. Simply Food possess a strong brand image and wide-variety of products that emphasize quality. Although considered more expensive than competing stores To see if the chain will have the same level of success in Montreal, we first analyzed the fundamentals and competitive landscape of the industry. Once a gap in the market was identified, we used quantitative research practices to examine each of the marketing mix factors involved in establishing the store. Our findings will indicate whether the location and consumer pool under consideration will RESEARCH OBJECTIVES * Identify the MS Simply Food products and services, and the factors that drive the chain’s success in the U. K. * Analyze the market fundamentals of the convenience store sector in Montreal, and identify whether a market gap for quality, high-end stores such as MS Simply food exists * Assess whether MS Simply Food will be profitable in Complex Desjardins based on the following factor: (i) Location (ii) Consumer Demographic (iii) Consumer Preferences (iv) Competition Pricing Propose key operating and marketing strategies to ensure the success of MS Simply food in Complex Desjardins. METHODOLOGY Industry Knowledge Exploratory research was employed to gain understanding of the U. K. convenience market and lean how the MS Simply Food chain is positioned. This involved a review of studies and data made available by leading international research institutions, as well as informal discussions with consumers who previously lived in London and are familiar with the brand. We applied the same methodologies when conducting a similar analysis of the Montreal convenience market. We will write a custom essay sample on Marks Spencer: an Analysis of the Demand for a MS Simply Food Convenience Store in Complexe Desjardins specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now We will write a custom essay sample on Marks Spencer: an Analysis of the Demand for a MS Simply Food Convenience Store in Complexe Desjardins specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer We will write a custom essay sample on Marks Spencer: an Analysis of the Demand for a MS Simply Food Convenience Store in Complexe Desjardins specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer In this stage of our research we were able to apply more formal approaches, such as conducting in-depth interviews with store managers. After all the necessary information was acquired, a qualitative comparison of the industries was made to determine whether opportunities existed for MS Simply Food in Montreal and whether a repositioning of products would be needed. Target Market From our previous analysis we establish a target market: consumers at the Complex Desjardins. This location is one of the main attractions in Montreal, at a vast 4 million square feet. Roughly 30,000 people come to the complex and its surroundings daily to work, shop, eat and/or enjoy the activities surrounding the Central Square. The Central Square inside the building has a surface of 15,000 square feet and is surrounded by a commercial gallery of 100 stores and restaurants. Thus, this location was chosen because of its notoriety and large exposure to residents and tourists. Survey and Sample Size To determine whether consumers at Complex Desjardins would be willing to purchase MS Simple Food products we conducted an anonymous survey on food services within the complex. The survey was a questionnaire made up variety of formats designed to draw out information about the location, demographic, consumer preferences, surrounding competition, pricing comparisons and consumers’ willingness to pay. Interviews were conducted at the Complex Desjardins, as well as within a 500m radius of its surroundings which comprised of Complexe Guy-Favreau, Bleury Street, Place Des Arts and Boulevard Saint-Laurent. We classified qualified respondents as consumers that came through the complex at least 3 times a week. In total, we interviewed 96 people, considering a variability of 50% and a 10% acceptable sampling error at 95% level of confidence. Assuming the total population under observation here is 30,000, it is evident that a 5% confidence interval is well above 96. Thus, no more readjustments are needed due to small sampling size. FINDINGS Convenience Market (1) U. K. Industry The U. K. convenience store market was valued at ? 30. 9 billion in the 12 months to April 2010, representing a 6. 3% increase on the previous year. The value of the market continued to grow despite a 0. 5% in store numbers. With he total U. K. Food and Grocery market expanding at a slower rate of 4. 1% in the same period, it is evident that the convenience sector is accelerating at a faster pace than the overall market. Thus, its market share has risen to 20. 5%. The factors driving the sector are the rising number of single person households, a growing population, increasing number of women in the work place and lon ger working weeks. The sector is also propelled forward by improved operational standards, greater awareness of shopper trends and more modern, tailored convenience solutions. (2) MS Simply Food Positioning The convenience sector is highly fragmented, with store operators divided into the following segments: co-operative, forecourts, multiples, symbols franchise, and non-affiliated independents. MS Simply Food is part of the franchise segment, which recorded the fastest growth in the previous year. This expansion was driven by additional stores, increased promotional activity and improved value for money. MS Simply Food specializes in selling ready-made meals: salads, sandwiches, desserts, snacks, and microwavable dishes. The self-service store also sells fresh produce, possessing wide selection of fruit and vegetables. Being high-end oriented, the franchise targets working professionals not only looking for a fast, healthy meal, but also willing and able to pay an additional expense for high quality food. For the added premium, customers have access to more adventurous recipes, better packaging and fresher ingredients. These value –added services, alongside the modern layout of the stores, give the brand a competitive edge in the market and allow it to capture a significant share of consumers. A negative sentiment expressed by consumers was attributed to the experience of purchasing at MS Simply Food stores. Due to brand’s high popularity, long queues often form inhibiting browsing by other potential customers and causing feeling of frustrations by professionals that are time-sensitive. (3) Montreal Industry The convenience sector in Montreal is made of Canadian chains and independents. Family-run depanneurs cater to local neighborhoods and immigrant populations, offering specialty foods and discount long-distance calling cards alongside the usual convenience-store fare. Others offer a wider variety of services such as Canada Post, Western Union transfers, Internet access, and home-delivery of groceries. However, the market is dominated by a large Canadian chain known as Couch-Tard Inc. The chain offers a quality assortment of freshly brewed coffee, frozen/iced beverages, fresh sandwiches and other fresh food items that are marked under proprietary brands. Arguing that most convenience stores are too cluttered, the Couche-Tard company introduced a new concept called â€Å"Store 2000†. These stores have wider layouts, brighter lighting, modern decor and often have Quick-Service Restaurants (QSR) located within them. The new concept was a success and the results were integrated into upgrades for all stores. 4) MS Simply Food Expanding to Montreal It is evident from our research that the U. K. has a more diverse group of convenience stores with different positioning catering to all consumer income brackets. However, in Montreal we see that Couche-Tard owns the majority of the market and is designed to target the average consumer, thereby not competing with deppaneurs immigrant po ol. This also illustrates a gap in the Montreal convenience market: value-added stores aimed at consumers from a higher income bracket. MS Simply Food’s positioning in U. K. onvenience markets makes it an ideal candidate. Survey Results (1) Location The statistical analysis of the questionnaire revealed that over 85% of the respondents visited the Complex Desjardins and its surrounding area at least 3 times a week. In Table below it is evident that the number of times a week respondents enjoy meals at the complex is greater in frequency towards higher values, with the overall average at 2. 7 times. This illustrates that the location receives a great deal of foot traffic, and is a popular food services venue. Table 1: How Often Consumers Eat at Complex Desjardins   | Frequency| Percent| Valid Percent| Cumulative Percent| Valid| Never| 2| 2. 1| 2. 7| 2. 7| | Once a month| 2| 2. 1| 2. 7| 5. 4| | Biweekly| 4| 4. 3| 5. 4| 10. 8| | Once a week| 7| 7. 4| 9. 5| 20. 3| | Twice a wee k| 13| 13. 8| 17. 6| 37. 8| | Three times a week| 20| 21. 3| 27| 64. 9| | Four times a week| 16| 17| 21. 6| 86. 5| | Five times a week| 10| 10. 6| 13. 5| 100| | Total| 74| 78. 7| 100|   | Missing| System| 20| 21. 3|   |   | Total| 94| 100|   |   | Furthermore, findings indicate that respondents favor particular designated areas within the complex and its surroundings when eating. With response rates of 38% and 34% respectively, the most popular areas are the food court and restaurants/cafes on the adjacent Saint-Catherine Streets. Diagram 1: Preferred Food Locations (2) Consumer Demographic In Table 2 we see the sample size under consideration reflects the social demographic profile of the area: professionals, local residents or students studying nearby. There is a fairly even distribution between male and female respondents, with males slightly ahead at 51%, conveying that the area equally attracts both sexes. Table 2: Social Demographic Profile of Complex Desjardins Based on Sample Statistics| |   | I work at or close to Complexe Desjardins| I live at or close to Complexe Deskardins| I study at or close to Complexe Desjardins| None of the above| N| Valid| 36| 28| 21| 3| | Missing| 58| 66| 73| 91| | Mean| 1| 1| 1| 1| | Median| 1| 1| 1| 1| | Mode| 1| 1| 1| 1| |   |   |   |   |   | I work at or close to Complex Desjardins| |   | Frequency| Percent| Valid Percent| Cumulative Percent| Valid| Yes| 36| 38. 3| 100| 100| Missing| System| 58| 61. 7|   |   | Total| 94| 100|   |   | I live at or close to Complex Desjardins| |   | Frequency| Percent| Valid Percent| Cumulative Percent| Valid| Yes| 28| 29. 8| 100| 100| Missing| System| 66| 70. 2|   |   | Total| 94| 100|   |   | I study at or close to Complex Desjardins| |   | Frequency| Percent| Valid Percent| Cumulative Percent| Valid| Yes| 21| 22. 3| 100| 100| Missing| System| 73| 77. 7|   |   | Total| 94| 100|   |   | None of the above| |   | Frequency| Percent| Valid Percent| Cumulative Percent| Valid| Yes| 3| 3. 2| 100| 100| Missing| System| 91| 96. 8|   |   | Total| 94| 100|   |   | |   |   |   |   |   | Consumers in the area tend to be well educated, with 63% of respondents having completed a college degree. This, alongside results that show 41% of respondents are between the ages18-24, indicates that complex attracts a great deal of young professionals. However, Diagram 2 below also illustrates that another 48% of respondents are between the ages of 25-40. Furthermore, the average household is occupied by 2. 8 residents and generates roughly CAN37,600 a year. These findings highlight another consumer profile, that of local residents; classifying them as small family units in the middle-to-high income bracket. Thus, our findings conclude that the consumer pool at Complex Diagram 2: Income levels (3) Consumer Preferences Our statistical analysis of the questionnaire revealed that the consumer preferences of the sample pool are aligned with MS Simply Food’s products and services. Roughly 61% of respondents stated that they would purchase food from a convenience store specializing in quality. Their main justifications for purchase included the reliability of quality food, the convenience of ready-made meals, the ability to enjoy restaurant quality food at lower prices, and the chance to maintain a healthy diet. Furthermore, the study revealed that when faced between the choices of picking up their own food or having it served to them, respondents were equally divided. These factors encompass the overall message, products and services of MS Simply Food value-added services. Table 3 analyzes the relationship between price and healthiness of food in terms of their importance to the end consumer. The cross tabulation clearly reflects the two variables are integral in the decision making process of the consumer: the more emphasis placed on the healthiness of food, the more significant pricing becomes. We can also conclude from the chi squared test that the relationship between the two variables is statistically significant. Unfortunately, our findings proved inconclusive when determining whether consumers would be willing to pay more for healthier, higher quality food. This limitation was due to the lack of responses to the particular question in the survey. Table 3: Relationship Between Price and Health in Consumer’s Decision-Making Process Healthy food on the menu * Price Cross Tabulation| Count|   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   | Price|   | Least| 2| 3| 5| 6| 7| 8| 9| Most important| Total| Healthy food on the menu| Least important| 1| 0| 0| 0| 0| 0| 0| 0| 0| 1| | 3| 0| 1| 0| 0| 0| 0| 1| 1| 0| 3| | 4| 0| 0| 0| 0| 0| 1| 0| 0| 1| 2| | 5| 0| 0| 0| 0| 1| 2| 0| 0| 0| 3| | 6| 0| 0| 0| 0| 2| 1| 3| 2| 0| 8| | 7| 0| 0| 0| 1| 1| 3| 3| 4| 3| 15| | 8| 0| 0| 0| 0| 1| 3| 8| 2| 4| 18| | 8| 0| 0| 1| 2| 1| 2| 0| 2| 0| 8| | Most important| 0| 0 | 0| 0| 4| 0| 2| 2| 7| 15| | Total| 1| 1| 1| 3| 10| 12| 17| 13| 15| 73| |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   | Chi-Square Tests|   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   | |   | Value| df| Asymp. Sig. 2-sided)|   |   |   |   |   |   |   | Pearson Chi-Square| 1. 52E+02| 64| 0|   |   |   |   |   |   |   | Likelihood Ratio| 72. 529| 64| 0. 217|   |   |   |   |   |   |   | Linear-by-Linear Association| 6. 593| 1| 0. 01|   |   |   |   |   |   |   | N of Valid Cases| 73|   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   | a. 81 cells (100. 0%) have expected count less than 5. The minimum expected count is . 01. |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   | Correlations|   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   | |   |   | Healthy food on the menu| Price|   |   |   |   |   |   |   | Healthy food on the menu| Pearson Correlation| 1| . 303**|   |   |   |   |   |   |   | | Sig. (2-tailed)|   | 0. 09|   |   |   |   |   |   |   | | N| 74| 73|   |   |   |   |   |   |   | Price| Pearson Correlation| . 303**| 1|   |   |   |   |   |   |   | | Sig. (2-tailed)| 0. 009|   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   | | N| 73| 73|   |   |   |   |   |   |   | **. Correlation is significant at the 0. 01 level (2-tailed). |   |   |   | How appealing varying food items are to the sample pool is illustrated in the table below through the mean value of each product; with the number 1 representing very little appeal and the number 10 great appeal. The relatively stronger desire for salads and sandwiches over desserts reflects the health conscious nature of the consumer. Furthermore, the high frequency of fruit’s appeal suggests consumers’ eagerness for diversity in menu options. Thus, it is evident that the taste preferences of the consumers are in line with some of the Simply Food products. However, the absence of responses concerning vegetables and microwavable meals suggest a lack of demand for such items. Table 4: Appeal of Food Products |   | Salads| Sandwiches| Desserts| Juices| Fruits| N| Valid| 74| 73| 74| 73| 74| | Missing| 20| 21| 20| 21| 20| | Mean| 7. 35| 7. 95| 6. 41| 7. 37| 6. 95| | Median| 8| 8| 7| 8| 7| | Mode| 7a| 9| 9| 8| 7| a. Multiple modes exist. The smallest value is shown|   | (4) Competition and Pricing Several questions in the survey were designed to size the level of competition MS Simply Food would face in Complex Desjardins. Our findings concluded that respondents favored a combination of restaurants and food court stations, with the top two in each respective category being: (1) Eggspectation and Baton Rouge; and (2) AW and Subway. This gives MS Simply Food a competitive advantage as its high quality food gives consumers the restaurant feel, while its ready-made, self-service concept mimics the convenience of the food court. Despite the popularity of some competitors, 63% of respondents stated that they do not have a preferred food chain. The results indicated that bad service and poor quality of food were the main deterrents of brand loyalty. However, nearly half of respondents expressed boredom with current food chain alternatives and eagerness to try new venues. When asked about sentiments regarding a new chain called â€Å"Simply Food†, 42% of respondents said that the name appealed to them. Also, Diagram 3 illustrates the styles of cuisines respondents believe are missing in the complex. Diagram 3: Styles of Cuisine Missing in Complex Desjardins The frequency below illustrates that 47% of respondents spend between CAN10. 00 to CAN14. 99 on a meal in Complex Desjardins, with the overall average meal costing CAN11. 80. In comparison, MS Simply Food individual products range on average from CA2. 00 to CAN4. 50. However, in Table 5 below we see that the brand’s luxury meals cost significantly more, averaging CAN22. 00. Taking into consideration the average expenditure of respondents, the findings suggest that consumers in Complex Desjardins are more likely to purchase individual food items, rather than an entire luxury meal. Table 5: MS Simply Food Prices | Cost in Pounds (GBP)| Cost in Canadian Dollars (CAN)| Average Cost of Salads| 2. 77| 4. 34| Average Cost of Ready-Made Meals| 2. 64| 4. 13| Average Cost of Fruit| 2. 81| 4. 40| Average Cost of Dessert| 1. 31| 2. 05| Average Cost of Luxury Meals| 14. 11| 22. 08| Correlations By running a series of correlation tests, we discover whether the demand for food within the complex is influenced by the income level of the respondents, the price of food, types of food chains available and consumers’ taste preferences. Table 6 below shows that the only 2 variables that are correlated are the number of times respondents eat at Complex Desjardins and the annual income levels. Although the value is not statistically significant to 0. 05, it is significant enough to display a relationship: that the frequency of visits, or rather demand, is determined by and proportional to the income levels of respondents. Table 6: Variables Correlated with the Demand for Food |   | How often eaten at Complex Desjardins| Which area do you prefer to eat in| Educational Level| Income Level| How often eaten at Complex Desjardins| Pearson Correlation| 1| . | . 343**| 0. 116|   | Sig. (2-tailed)|   | . | 0. 003| 0. 332| | N| 74| 0| 72| 72| Where? | Pearson Correlation| . a| . a| . a| . a| | Sig. (2-tailed)| . |   | . | . | | N| 0| 0| 0| 0| Education| Pearson Correlation| . 343**| . a| 1| . 324**|   | Sig. (2-tailed)| 0. 003| . |   | 0. 006| | N| 72| 0| 72| 70| Income| Pearson Correlation| 0. 116| . a| . 324**| 1 | | Sig. (2-tailed)| 0. 332| . | 0. 006|   | | N| 72| 0| 70| 72| a. Cannot be computed because at least one of the variables is constant. | **. Correlation is significant at the 0. 01 level (2-tailed). LIMITATIONS As in any research report, a number of limitations in the execution and analysis of our report occurred. The main issue we encountered was that of missing data, in which a number of questions in the questionnaire were left unanswered. As a result, many of our estimates were found statistically inefficient due to loss of information, while other estimates may be considered biased if the data from questions left vacant are systematically different. In the future, we suggest increasing the sample size to ensure a more reliable and valid data set. Another common limitation is the subjectivity of surveys in that respondents often fail to answer questions truthfully and therefore skew the results. Efforts to ensure data is accurate would have required more expenditure; however budget restrained us from implementing such solutions. Budget constraints limited the sample size, and care should be exercised in the future to general these findings further. CONCLUSION RECOMMENDATIONS After much assessment, we believe that MS Simply Food will prove to successful if established in Complex Desjardins. Our findings conclude that the complex and its surrounding are the ideal location to for Simply Food to attract its target market. Consumers that purchase food at the complex are young professionals and local residents who fall into the middle-to-high income bracket, and therefore are able to afford brand’s higher priced products. Furthermore, consumers’ product preferences reflected strong desires for higher quality food and a wider variety of cuisine options. Simply Food prides itself on offering its consumers premium quality meals made from adventurous recipes and fresh ingredients, and therefore will be able to capture this unmet demand. Although there is a great deal of competition in the Complex Desjardins, its consumers are open to change and are ever evolving their taste pallet. The unique style of MS Simply Food enables it to provide consumers with quality restaurant food at the speed and convenience of food court service, thereby capturing a wider share of the market and competing with both food chain categories. The following is a list of recommendations we believe will ensure the profitability of MS Simply Food in Complex Desjardins: * Locate the convenience store in the food court, as it attracts the greatest number of consumers. The food court also compliments the self-service nature of the store, providing consumers with an adjacent seating area. * Ensure all advertisements of the brand strongly highlight the â€Å"Simply Food† name, as well as key phrases that reflect the stores value-added services: for example â€Å"High Quality Food†, â€Å"Adventurous Recipes†, â€Å"Variety of Cuisine Options†, and â€Å"A Healthy Meal Option†. This well help the brand appeal to consumers’ preferences. * Limit products to ready-made meals, sandwiches, salads, fruits and beverages. Exclude the sale of vegetable produce and microwavable meals, as there does not seem to be a demand for such items. * To encourage the sale of more expensive luxury platter meals, we suggest holding discount promotions during the soft opening of the store. Reduce the price of platters to slightly below the average cost of meals in the complex, in order to entice consumers and build brand loyalty. * To compete with competitors, MS Simply Food must build up its reputation as a quality food provider at a quick and convenient pace. To ensure this is done successfully, stores must be designed to provide adequate space for browsing, which is to be separated from the pay register. By doing so MS Simply Food will not have the same queuing problem it encounters in the U. K. , which often deters potential customers. REFERENCES IGD The Food and Grocery Experts. â€Å"Convenience Retailing Market Overview,† [On-line]. Available: http://www. igd. com/index. asp? id=1fid=1sid=7tid=26cid=91 [20/1/11] Marketing Week (2007, April). â€Å"Assessing the MS Simply Food Brand,† [On-line]. Available: Marks Spencer an Analysis of the Demand for a MS Simply Food Convenience Store in Complexe Desjardins Essay Example Marks Spencer: an Analysis of the Demand for a MS Simply Food Convenience Store in Complexe Desjardins Essay INTRODUCTION In this report we assess whether an MS Simply Food convenience store would be profitable when located in Complex Desjardins, Montreal. In the U. K. Simply Food possess a strong brand image and wide-variety of products that emphasize quality. Although considered more expensive than competing stores To see if the chain will have the same level of success in Montreal, we first analyzed the fundamentals and competitive landscape of the industry. Once a gap in the market was identified, we used quantitative research practices to examine each of the marketing mix factors involved in establishing the store. Our findings will indicate whether the location and consumer pool under consideration will RESEARCH OBJECTIVES * Identify the MS Simply Food products and services, and the factors that drive the chain’s success in the U. K. * Analyze the market fundamentals of the convenience store sector in Montreal, and identify whether a market gap for quality, high-end stores such as MS Simply food exists * Assess whether MS Simply Food will be profitable in Complex Desjardins based on the following factor: (i) Location (ii) Consumer Demographic (iii) Consumer Preferences (iv) Competition Pricing Propose key operating and marketing strategies to ensure the success of MS Simply food in Complex Desjardins. METHODOLOGY Industry Knowledge Exploratory research was employed to gain understanding of the U. K. convenience market and lean how the MS Simply Food chain is positioned. This involved a review of studies and data made available by leading international research institutions, as well as informal discussions with consumers who previously lived in London and are familiar with the brand. We applied the same methodologies when conducting a similar analysis of the Montreal convenience market. We will write a custom essay sample on Marks Spencer: an Analysis of the Demand for a MS Simply Food Convenience Store in Complexe Desjardins specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now We will write a custom essay sample on Marks Spencer: an Analysis of the Demand for a MS Simply Food Convenience Store in Complexe Desjardins specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer We will write a custom essay sample on Marks Spencer: an Analysis of the Demand for a MS Simply Food Convenience Store in Complexe Desjardins specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer In this stage of our research we were able to apply more formal approaches, such as conducting in-depth interviews with store managers. After all the necessary information was acquired, a qualitative comparison of the industries was made to determine whether opportunities existed for MS Simply Food in Montreal and whether a repositioning of products would be needed. Target Market From our previous analysis we establish a target market: consumers at the Complex Desjardins. This location is one of the main attractions in Montreal, at a vast 4 million square feet. Roughly 30,000 people come to the complex and its surroundings daily to work, shop, eat and/or enjoy the activities surrounding the Central Square. The Central Square inside the building has a surface of 15,000 square feet and is surrounded by a commercial gallery of 100 stores and restaurants. Thus, this location was chosen because of its notoriety and large exposure to residents and tourists. Survey and Sample Size To determine whether consumers at Complex Desjardins would be willing to purchase MS Simple Food products we conducted an anonymous survey on food services within the complex. The survey was a questionnaire made up variety of formats designed to draw out information about the location, demographic, consumer preferences, surrounding competition, pricing comparisons and consumers’ willingness to pay. Interviews were conducted at the Complex Desjardins, as well as within a 500m radius of its surroundings which comprised of Complexe Guy-Favreau, Bleury Street, Place Des Arts and Boulevard Saint-Laurent. We classified qualified respondents as consumers that came through the complex at least 3 times a week. In total, we interviewed 96 people, considering a variability of 50% and a 10% acceptable sampling error at 95% level of confidence. Assuming the total population under observation here is 30,000, it is evident that a 5% confidence interval is well above 96. Thus, no more readjustments are needed due to small sampling size. FINDINGS Convenience Market (1) U. K. Industry The U. K. convenience store market was valued at ? 30. 9 billion in the 12 months to April 2010, representing a 6. 3% increase on the previous year. The value of the market continued to grow despite a 0. 5% in store numbers. With he total U. K. Food and Grocery market expanding at a slower rate of 4. 1% in the same period, it is evident that the convenience sector is accelerating at a faster pace than the overall market. Thus, its market share has risen to 20. 5%. The factors driving the sector are the rising number of single person households, a growing population, increasing number of women in the work place and lon ger working weeks. The sector is also propelled forward by improved operational standards, greater awareness of shopper trends and more modern, tailored convenience solutions. (2) MS Simply Food Positioning The convenience sector is highly fragmented, with store operators divided into the following segments: co-operative, forecourts, multiples, symbols franchise, and non-affiliated independents. MS Simply Food is part of the franchise segment, which recorded the fastest growth in the previous year. This expansion was driven by additional stores, increased promotional activity and improved value for money. MS Simply Food specializes in selling ready-made meals: salads, sandwiches, desserts, snacks, and microwavable dishes. The self-service store also sells fresh produce, possessing wide selection of fruit and vegetables. Being high-end oriented, the franchise targets working professionals not only looking for a fast, healthy meal, but also willing and able to pay an additional expense for high quality food. For the added premium, customers have access to more adventurous recipes, better packaging and fresher ingredients. These value –added services, alongside the modern layout of the stores, give the brand a competitive edge in the market and allow it to capture a significant share of consumers. A negative sentiment expressed by consumers was attributed to the experience of purchasing at MS Simply Food stores. Due to brand’s high popularity, long queues often form inhibiting browsing by other potential customers and causing feeling of frustrations by professionals that are time-sensitive. (3) Montreal Industry The convenience sector in Montreal is made of Canadian chains and independents. Family-run depanneurs cater to local neighborhoods and immigrant populations, offering specialty foods and discount long-distance calling cards alongside the usual convenience-store fare. Others offer a wider variety of services such as Canada Post, Western Union transfers, Internet access, and home-delivery of groceries. However, the market is dominated by a large Canadian chain known as Couch-Tard Inc. The chain offers a quality assortment of freshly brewed coffee, frozen/iced beverages, fresh sandwiches and other fresh food items that are marked under proprietary brands. Arguing that most convenience stores are too cluttered, the Couche-Tard company introduced a new concept called â€Å"Store 2000†. These stores have wider layouts, brighter lighting, modern decor and often have Quick-Service Restaurants (QSR) located within them. The new concept was a success and the results were integrated into upgrades for all stores. 4) MS Simply Food Expanding to Montreal It is evident from our research that the U. K. has a more diverse group of convenience stores with different positioning catering to all consumer income brackets. However, in Montreal we see that Couche-Tard owns the majority of the market and is designed to target the average consumer, thereby not competing with deppaneurs immigrant po ol. This also illustrates a gap in the Montreal convenience market: value-added stores aimed at consumers from a higher income bracket. MS Simply Food’s positioning in U. K. onvenience markets makes it an ideal candidate. Survey Results (1) Location The statistical analysis of the questionnaire revealed that over 85% of the respondents visited the Complex Desjardins and its surrounding area at least 3 times a week. In Table below it is evident that the number of times a week respondents enjoy meals at the complex is greater in frequency towards higher values, with the overall average at 2. 7 times. This illustrates that the location receives a great deal of foot traffic, and is a popular food services venue. Table 1: How Often Consumers Eat at Complex Desjardins   | Frequency| Percent| Valid Percent| Cumulative Percent| Valid| Never| 2| 2. 1| 2. 7| 2. 7| | Once a month| 2| 2. 1| 2. 7| 5. 4| | Biweekly| 4| 4. 3| 5. 4| 10. 8| | Once a week| 7| 7. 4| 9. 5| 20. 3| | Twice a wee k| 13| 13. 8| 17. 6| 37. 8| | Three times a week| 20| 21. 3| 27| 64. 9| | Four times a week| 16| 17| 21. 6| 86. 5| | Five times a week| 10| 10. 6| 13. 5| 100| | Total| 74| 78. 7| 100|   | Missing| System| 20| 21. 3|   |   | Total| 94| 100|   |   | Furthermore, findings indicate that respondents favor particular designated areas within the complex and its surroundings when eating. With response rates of 38% and 34% respectively, the most popular areas are the food court and restaurants/cafes on the adjacent Saint-Catherine Streets. Diagram 1: Preferred Food Locations (2) Consumer Demographic In Table 2 we see the sample size under consideration reflects the social demographic profile of the area: professionals, local residents or students studying nearby. There is a fairly even distribution between male and female respondents, with males slightly ahead at 51%, conveying that the area equally attracts both sexes. Table 2: Social Demographic Profile of Complex Desjardins Based on Sample Statistics| |   | I work at or close to Complexe Desjardins| I live at or close to Complexe Deskardins| I study at or close to Complexe Desjardins| None of the above| N| Valid| 36| 28| 21| 3| | Missing| 58| 66| 73| 91| | Mean| 1| 1| 1| 1| | Median| 1| 1| 1| 1| | Mode| 1| 1| 1| 1| |   |   |   |   |   | I work at or close to Complex Desjardins| |   | Frequency| Percent| Valid Percent| Cumulative Percent| Valid| Yes| 36| 38. 3| 100| 100| Missing| System| 58| 61. 7|   |   | Total| 94| 100|   |   | I live at or close to Complex Desjardins| |   | Frequency| Percent| Valid Percent| Cumulative Percent| Valid| Yes| 28| 29. 8| 100| 100| Missing| System| 66| 70. 2|   |   | Total| 94| 100|   |   | I study at or close to Complex Desjardins| |   | Frequency| Percent| Valid Percent| Cumulative Percent| Valid| Yes| 21| 22. 3| 100| 100| Missing| System| 73| 77. 7|   |   | Total| 94| 100|   |   | None of the above| |   | Frequency| Percent| Valid Percent| Cumulative Percent| Valid| Yes| 3| 3. 2| 100| 100| Missing| System| 91| 96. 8|   |   | Total| 94| 100|   |   | |   |   |   |   |   | Consumers in the area tend to be well educated, with 63% of respondents having completed a college degree. This, alongside results that show 41% of respondents are between the ages18-24, indicates that complex attracts a great deal of young professionals. However, Diagram 2 below also illustrates that another 48% of respondents are between the ages of 25-40. Furthermore, the average household is occupied by 2. 8 residents and generates roughly CAN37,600 a year. These findings highlight another consumer profile, that of local residents; classifying them as small family units in the middle-to-high income bracket. Thus, our findings conclude that the consumer pool at Complex Diagram 2: Income levels (3) Consumer Preferences Our statistical analysis of the questionnaire revealed that the consumer preferences of the sample pool are aligned with MS Simply Food’s products and services. Roughly 61% of respondents stated that they would purchase food from a convenience store specializing in quality. Their main justifications for purchase included the reliability of quality food, the convenience of ready-made meals, the ability to enjoy restaurant quality food at lower prices, and the chance to maintain a healthy diet. Furthermore, the study revealed that when faced between the choices of picking up their own food or having it served to them, respondents were equally divided. These factors encompass the overall message, products and services of MS Simply Food value-added services. Table 3 analyzes the relationship between price and healthiness of food in terms of their importance to the end consumer. The cross tabulation clearly reflects the two variables are integral in the decision making process of the consumer: the more emphasis placed on the healthiness of food, the more significant pricing becomes. We can also conclude from the chi squared test that the relationship between the two variables is statistically significant. Unfortunately, our findings proved inconclusive when determining whether consumers would be willing to pay more for healthier, higher quality food. This limitation was due to the lack of responses to the particular question in the survey. Table 3: Relationship Between Price and Health in Consumer’s Decision-Making Process Healthy food on the menu * Price Cross Tabulation| Count|   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   | Price|   | Least| 2| 3| 5| 6| 7| 8| 9| Most important| Total| Healthy food on the menu| Least important| 1| 0| 0| 0| 0| 0| 0| 0| 0| 1| | 3| 0| 1| 0| 0| 0| 0| 1| 1| 0| 3| | 4| 0| 0| 0| 0| 0| 1| 0| 0| 1| 2| | 5| 0| 0| 0| 0| 1| 2| 0| 0| 0| 3| | 6| 0| 0| 0| 0| 2| 1| 3| 2| 0| 8| | 7| 0| 0| 0| 1| 1| 3| 3| 4| 3| 15| | 8| 0| 0| 0| 0| 1| 3| 8| 2| 4| 18| | 8| 0| 0| 1| 2| 1| 2| 0| 2| 0| 8| | Most important| 0| 0 | 0| 0| 4| 0| 2| 2| 7| 15| | Total| 1| 1| 1| 3| 10| 12| 17| 13| 15| 73| |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   | Chi-Square Tests|   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   | |   | Value| df| Asymp. Sig. 2-sided)|   |   |   |   |   |   |   | Pearson Chi-Square| 1. 52E+02| 64| 0|   |   |   |   |   |   |   | Likelihood Ratio| 72. 529| 64| 0. 217|   |   |   |   |   |   |   | Linear-by-Linear Association| 6. 593| 1| 0. 01|   |   |   |   |   |   |   | N of Valid Cases| 73|   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   | a. 81 cells (100. 0%) have expected count less than 5. The minimum expected count is . 01. |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   | Correlations|   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   | |   |   | Healthy food on the menu| Price|   |   |   |   |   |   |   | Healthy food on the menu| Pearson Correlation| 1| . 303**|   |   |   |   |   |   |   | | Sig. (2-tailed)|   | 0. 09|   |   |   |   |   |   |   | | N| 74| 73|   |   |   |   |   |   |   | Price| Pearson Correlation| . 303**| 1|   |   |   |   |   |   |   | | Sig. (2-tailed)| 0. 009|   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   | | N| 73| 73|   |   |   |   |   |   |   | **. Correlation is significant at the 0. 01 level (2-tailed). |   |   |   | How appealing varying food items are to the sample pool is illustrated in the table below through the mean value of each product; with the number 1 representing very little appeal and the number 10 great appeal. The relatively stronger desire for salads and sandwiches over desserts reflects the health conscious nature of the consumer. Furthermore, the high frequency of fruit’s appeal suggests consumers’ eagerness for diversity in menu options. Thus, it is evident that the taste preferences of the consumers are in line with some of the Simply Food products. However, the absence of responses concerning vegetables and microwavable meals suggest a lack of demand for such items. Table 4: Appeal of Food Products |   | Salads| Sandwiches| Desserts| Juices| Fruits| N| Valid| 74| 73| 74| 73| 74| | Missing| 20| 21| 20| 21| 20| | Mean| 7. 35| 7. 95| 6. 41| 7. 37| 6. 95| | Median| 8| 8| 7| 8| 7| | Mode| 7a| 9| 9| 8| 7| a. Multiple modes exist. The smallest value is shown|   | (4) Competition and Pricing Several questions in the survey were designed to size the level of competition MS Simply Food would face in Complex Desjardins. Our findings concluded that respondents favored a combination of restaurants and food court stations, with the top two in each respective category being: (1) Eggspectation and Baton Rouge; and (2) AW and Subway. This gives MS Simply Food a competitive advantage as its high quality food gives consumers the restaurant feel, while its ready-made, self-service concept mimics the convenience of the food court. Despite the popularity of some competitors, 63% of respondents stated that they do not have a preferred food chain. The results indicated that bad service and poor quality of food were the main deterrents of brand loyalty. However, nearly half of respondents expressed boredom with current food chain alternatives and eagerness to try new venues. When asked about sentiments regarding a new chain called â€Å"Simply Food†, 42% of respondents said that the name appealed to them. Also, Diagram 3 illustrates the styles of cuisines respondents believe are missing in the complex. Diagram 3: Styles of Cuisine Missing in Complex Desjardins The frequency below illustrates that 47% of respondents spend between CAN10. 00 to CAN14. 99 on a meal in Complex Desjardins, with the overall average meal costing CAN11. 80. In comparison, MS Simply Food individual products range on average from CA2. 00 to CAN4. 50. However, in Table 5 below we see that the brand’s luxury meals cost significantly more, averaging CAN22. 00. Taking into consideration the average expenditure of respondents, the findings suggest that consumers in Complex Desjardins are more likely to purchase individual food items, rather than an entire luxury meal. Table 5: MS Simply Food Prices | Cost in Pounds (GBP)| Cost in Canadian Dollars (CAN)| Average Cost of Salads| 2. 77| 4. 34| Average Cost of Ready-Made Meals| 2. 64| 4. 13| Average Cost of Fruit| 2. 81| 4. 40| Average Cost of Dessert| 1. 31| 2. 05| Average Cost of Luxury Meals| 14. 11| 22. 08| Correlations By running a series of correlation tests, we discover whether the demand for food within the complex is influenced by the income level of the respondents, the price of food, types of food chains available and consumers’ taste preferences. Table 6 below shows that the only 2 variables that are correlated are the number of times respondents eat at Complex Desjardins and the annual income levels. Although the value is not statistically significant to 0. 05, it is significant enough to display a relationship: that the frequency of visits, or rather demand, is determined by and proportional to the income levels of respondents. Table 6: Variables Correlated with the Demand for Food |   | How often eaten at Complex Desjardins| Which area do you prefer to eat in| Educational Level| Income Level| How often eaten at Complex Desjardins| Pearson Correlation| 1| . | . 343**| 0. 116|   | Sig. (2-tailed)|   | . | 0. 003| 0. 332| | N| 74| 0| 72| 72| Where? | Pearson Correlation| . a| . a| . a| . a| | Sig. (2-tailed)| . |   | . | . | | N| 0| 0| 0| 0| Education| Pearson Correlation| . 343**| . a| 1| . 324**|   | Sig. (2-tailed)| 0. 003| . |   | 0. 006| | N| 72| 0| 72| 70| Income| Pearson Correlation| 0. 116| . a| . 324**| 1 | | Sig. (2-tailed)| 0. 332| . | 0. 006|   | | N| 72| 0| 70| 72| a. Cannot be computed because at least one of the variables is constant. | **. Correlation is significant at the 0. 01 level (2-tailed). LIMITATIONS As in any research report, a number of limitations in the execution and analysis of our report occurred. The main issue we encountered was that of missing data, in which a number of questions in the questionnaire were left unanswered. As a result, many of our estimates were found statistically inefficient due to loss of information, while other estimates may be considered biased if the data from questions left vacant are systematically different. In the future, we suggest increasing the sample size to ensure a more reliable and valid data set. Another common limitation is the subjectivity of surveys in that respondents often fail to answer questions truthfully and therefore skew the results. Efforts to ensure data is accurate would have required more expenditure; however budget restrained us from implementing such solutions. Budget constraints limited the sample size, and care should be exercised in the future to general these findings further. CONCLUSION RECOMMENDATIONS After much assessment, we believe that MS Simply Food will prove to successful if established in Complex Desjardins. Our findings conclude that the complex and its surrounding are the ideal location to for Simply Food to attract its target market. Consumers that purchase food at the complex are young professionals and local residents who fall into the middle-to-high income bracket, and therefore are able to afford brand’s higher priced products. Furthermore, consumers’ product preferences reflected strong desires for higher quality food and a wider variety of cuisine options. Simply Food prides itself on offering its consumers premium quality meals made from adventurous recipes and fresh ingredients, and therefore will be able to capture this unmet demand. Although there is a great deal of competition in the Complex Desjardins, its consumers are open to change and are ever evolving their taste pallet. The unique style of MS Simply Food enables it to provide consumers with quality restaurant food at the speed and convenience of food court service, thereby capturing a wider share of the market and competing with both food chain categories. The following is a list of recommendations we believe will ensure the profitability of MS Simply Food in Complex Desjardins: * Locate the convenience store in the food court, as it attracts the greatest number of consumers. The food court also compliments the self-service nature of the store, providing consumers with an adjacent seating area. * Ensure all advertisements of the brand strongly highlight the â€Å"Simply Food† name, as well as key phrases that reflect the stores value-added services: for example â€Å"High Quality Food†, â€Å"Adventurous Recipes†, â€Å"Variety of Cuisine Options†, and â€Å"A Healthy Meal Option†. This well help the brand appeal to consumers’ preferences. * Limit products to ready-made meals, sandwiches, salads, fruits and beverages. Exclude the sale of vegetable produce and microwavable meals, as there does not seem to be a demand for such items. * To encourage the sale of more expensive luxury platter meals, we suggest holding discount promotions during the soft opening of the store. Reduce the price of platters to slightly below the average cost of meals in the complex, in order to entice consumers and build brand loyalty. * To compete with competitors, MS Simply Food must build up its reputation as a quality food provider at a quick and convenient pace. To ensure this is done successfully, stores must be designed to provide adequate space for browsing, which is to be separated from the pay register. By doing so MS Simply Food will not have the same queuing problem it encounters in the U. K. , which often deters potential customers. REFERENCES IGD The Food and Grocery Experts. â€Å"Convenience Retailing Market Overview,† [On-line]. Available: http://www. igd. com/index. asp? id=1fid=1sid=7tid=26cid=91 [20/1/11] Marketing Week (2007, April). â€Å"Assessing the MS Simply Food Brand,† [On-line]. Available:

Free Essays on School Psychologist

School Psychologist School psychologists have specialized training in both psychology and education. The training requirements to become a school psychologist are a minimum of 60 graduate semester hours including a year-long internship. This training emphasizes preparation in mental health, child development, school organization, learning, behavior and motivation. To work as a school psychologist, one must be certified and/or licensed by the state in which services are provided. School psychologists also may be nationally certified by the National School Psychology Certification Board (NSPCB). School psychologists use their training and skills to team with educators, parents, and other mental health professionals to ensure that every child learns in a safe, healthy and supportive environment. They understand school systems, effective teaching and successful learning. They work to help with the particular needs of each child and each situation. Some of their important duties include: Giving healthy and effective alternatives to teachers, parents, and administrators about problems in learning and behavior. Strengthen working relationships between educators, parents and community services. Use a wide variety of techniques at an individual, group, and systems level to evaluate academic skills, learning aptitudes, personality and emotional development and social skills. Work face-to-face with children and families to help solve conflicts and problems in learning and adjustment. Provide psychological counseling for children and families and social skills training, behavior management, and other strategies. Help promote tolerance, understanding, and appreciation of the diversity in the school community. Evaluate the effectiveness of academic programs, behavior management systems, and other services. Work with children and families to provide integrated community services focusing on psychosocial wellne... Free Essays on School Psychologist Free Essays on School Psychologist School Psychologist School psychologists have specialized training in both psychology and education. The training requirements to become a school psychologist are a minimum of 60 graduate semester hours including a year-long internship. This training emphasizes preparation in mental health, child development, school organization, learning, behavior and motivation. To work as a school psychologist, one must be certified and/or licensed by the state in which services are provided. School psychologists also may be nationally certified by the National School Psychology Certification Board (NSPCB). School psychologists use their training and skills to team with educators, parents, and other mental health professionals to ensure that every child learns in a safe, healthy and supportive environment. They understand school systems, effective teaching and successful learning. They work to help with the particular needs of each child and each situation. Some of their important duties include: Giving healthy and effective alternatives to teachers, parents, and administrators about problems in learning and behavior. Strengthen working relationships between educators, parents and community services. Use a wide variety of techniques at an individual, group, and systems level to evaluate academic skills, learning aptitudes, personality and emotional development and social skills. Work face-to-face with children and families to help solve conflicts and problems in learning and adjustment. Provide psychological counseling for children and families and social skills training, behavior management, and other strategies. Help promote tolerance, understanding, and appreciation of the diversity in the school community. Evaluate the effectiveness of academic programs, behavior management systems, and other services. Work with children and families to provide integrated community services focusing on psychosocial wellne...

Critically examine the duties and responsibilities of the head of your Article

Critically examine the duties and responsibilities of the head of your own working organisation - Article Example y to the students at the rear of the class, the educational environment, aeration, and the teacher’s ability to gain the attention of students and make them engaged throughout the lecture. Thus, the principal not only tends to observe the faults in the pedagogical style of the teachers, but also identifies their qualities. Moreover, the principle also critically analyzes the educational environment prevalent in the class and takes necessary measures to improve it in the best interest of the students. After having noticed all the weaknesses in the approach of the teachers, it is the principal’s responsibility to make the respective teachers aware of their individualistic faults without making them excessively conscious or emotionally depressed. This requires careful dealing, so the principal is ought to be very articulate in his/her mannerism in order to get the best out of the teachers. The best approach is to talk to the teachers on individual level when there is no th ird party involved. This way, a teacher finds it easy to communicate his/her problems with the principal. The exchange of words and discussion over sensitive issues between a principal and a teacher is conducive for the success of the school. A principal chooses between several options to select the procedure for deciding the course for teaching the students along with all the equipment involved in it. Managing the school One of the most important qualities that a principal should necessarily have is emotional intelligence to the extreme level. The nature of job of a principal is such that the individual is socially active. Being the head of the school, a principal has to deal with a lot of people on everyday basis. From the parents of students to interested candidates for mentorship, a principal has... This essay stresses that it is the responsibility of a principal to set and encourage high standards for both the staff and the students in a school. This is essential for the improvement of their academic performance and for making them prudent in their behavior in school. The principal assumes the duty to make the principles and practices consistent with the strategies, goals, missions and objectives of the school. Nevertheless, all rules, regulations and laws need to be complied with while formulating the school rules. As a leader, the principal evaluates the yearly schedule for educational programs and formulates lesson plans. This is necessary in order to make the learning sequential, orderly and consistent for the students. This paper makes a conclusion that educational leaders assume great capacity to improve their competence. In order to achieve this, it is imperative that an educational leader devote specific amount of time to self reflection on everyday basis. Self reflection is a key to identification of weaknesses and correction of mistakes. Principalship of schools is a constantly maturing phenomenon. Like an individual can never be perfect, likewise, traits of principalship can not be benchmarked because there is always one step ahead in the way of perfection, and the road is infinite. The goal of a principal should be to make right decisions at the right time to gain optimum benefit for the school, and make the educational environment conducive for maximum learning on the part of the students.

The Responsibility of Parents in the Crimes Commited by Children Research Paper

The Responsibility of Parents in the Crimes Commited by Children - Research Paper Example bankrupt and devastate the whole family, leaving them unable to recover and in a position to deteriorate rather than rise above incidents that have already caused difficulties within the family dynamic. In addition, a parent going to jail for the crimes of their child will create a series of long lasting consequence from which the family might also never recover. The inequities within the various socio-economic classes within the United States means that the poor would be punished to an unprecedented magnitude, leaving a further gap between lower classes and the upper classes. Parents should not be penalized for the crimes of the children, rather children and parents should be put through therapies and courses of treatment that can re-socialize them so that they understand their mistakes, can recover from the incidents, and can move forward towards more productive lives. This research study has been conducted in order to understand how criminal liability for the crimes of children th at is placed upon families would affect those families. The opinions of parents in relationship to this concept have been examined through the use of a focus group which was interviewed in a semi-structured format to encourage parents to discuss the topic and relate their beliefs on the feasibility and consequences of holding parents responsible for the crimes of their children. Through qualitative methods of discovery, the opinions and experiences of three sets of parents have been examined to understand the belief systems that are in place in relationship to the responsibility that they hold for the crimes of their children in relationship to social and public consequences that society may choose to impose. Background The extent to which parents are liable for the crimes committed by... The study was significant in that it showed that the answer to the question of responsibility is both complex and in need of further study. Social and legal responsibilities are both structured to operate within the parameters of society as it is understood by its inhabitants. In this case, children have yet to fully come to an understanding of their world, thus their fantasy worlds seem to collide with it and create alternative belief systems that are outside of the understanding of their parents. Parents are at a loss to how they are supposed to control the emergence of beliefs when they are not always let into that world by their children. The example of fictional concepts, such as the film the Goonies or even the Harry Potter series reflect the idea that children often believe that the world will operate in a different way and it is through luck that their ‘adventures’ do not cause harm or come to tragic ends. This report makes a conclusion that the difficulty in coming to a conclusion through the discussion group stems from the personal connection that the parents have to a fear that something their child will do will result in a tragic event. With children, it seems, control is an illusion that parents try to assert but is still within the ability of the child to determine his or her behavior. Control is only asserted through convincing them that good behavior is better than bad behavior.

English Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 70

English - Essay Example ual living under the rule of Allah should behave, it can most certainly be understood that religion plays extraordinarily powerful role in defining the person I am and how I interact with others within society. Another powerful mechanism through which my own personal culture is defined has to do with the way in which I was raised. My father and my mother have always placed great deal of emphasis upon personal responsibility and the way in which I have made my own choices. Whereas many parents insist upon making each and every choice for their son/daughter, my parents instead focused upon an approach that the decision-making power mainly in my own hands. As a result of this, my own personal culture is one that is defined by a great deal of independence. Instead of looking to others and seeking out the way in which a particular situation can be resolved for a particular question can be answered, my own personal culture is one that places a great deal of trust and expectation in the belief that my instilled the virtues and problem-solving abilities will be able to tackle even the most difficult questions. It should not be understood that personal culture is something that is without change. Instead, there are many aspects of my personal culture that I am currently at work on as a means of improving them. For instance, I have recently become aware of the fact that I tend not to listen to individuals as much as I should. As a result of this inability or lack of concern, many people think that by merely dismiss the information that they might be providing me and choose to promote my own point of view first and foremost. This particular shortcoming is most likely the result of the fact that I grew up in a relatively large family and had to actively compete for attention and understanding with older siblings and/or my parents. However, in recognizing this shortcoming of personal culture, and seeking to address it, I hope to improve upon it in the very near

The Qr Code Technology Computer Science Essay

The Qr Code Technology Computer Science Essay QR code, also called QR barcode.QR code is a information processing technology ,develop by base on grahic techonlege and computer techolage. It is to use a particular geometric figure according to rule in the two-dimension plane which is distribution of black and white graphic to record data . In the coding of clever, use 0, 1 bit stream concept which is constitute the basis of computer internal logic. The use of several and binary corresponding geometric shapes to represent text numerical information, through the image input device or photoelectric scanning equipment automatic to read in order to realize information automatic processing. Using a dedicated reading code or smartphone can be scanned to identify for which contained information. QR code can be expressed in information in two directions at the same time horizontal and vertical, so to express a lot of information in a very small area. QR code is not specially designed for mobile phones by itself, but with the development of mobile communication technology, mobile phones creates the QR code. Mobile phones QR code will be as QR code recognizer and carrier and hosted by QR code information navigation and information. Advantages of QR code The Advantages of QR code ¼Ã… ¡ QR code have high density informations and big capacity. Can record 1850 capital letters or 2710 digital or 1108 bytes. Lengthways and horizontal can record and store information. It can store much information and do not need information for connect internet. the scope of QR coding is very big. This QR code can coding sound pictures words number to be a shown digital information. never afraid local damage ¼Ã…’even the damaged area is 50%, can still get to read correctly. This features of QR code is a important effect for people daily life. The black QR code become colourful and have some fun idea picture inside. Let person want use QR code and seed up the communication for information. The decoding particularly accurate. Error rate is less than one over ten million. Use the QR code do not afraid can not find the source which QR code have. Can be encrypted. Security and confidentiality. Never afraid the inportant imformation will be steal. The trade secret will be saved,and company never lost anything. Easy to make,use for long time,cost less. Symbol shape and size ratio can be changed. can read by CCD reader and the laser. The Last Ocean (documentary) Applications of QR code QR codes as a kind of brand-new information storage, transmission and identification technology rapidly into the people daily life with the development of science and technology. Use mobile phone surf the internet,it is difficult to need enter long website. Use QR code will reduce this trouble,as long as you use phone to scan QR code on the book or adertising. It is not inconveninet to carry paper business cards. If the business card use QR code,it will convenient storages of business cards.Use mobile phone can scan the QR code can copy the name ,phone number,email.and company informations to your mobile phone from the business cards. It is easy to help you contact him and know his company. Use mobile phone to scan QR code can reduce the waste of paper and pollution of the environment. QR code attendance system is a certificate type of mobile data service of new products, belongs to the mobile phone QR code to be read application, it is modern mobile communications technology and QR code coding technology unifies in together, the content of the traditional certificate holders and information encoding become a QR code graphics, and through the SMS, MMS, etc to send to the users mobile phone, when using, through the special read code equipment on the opponent display QR code graphics for student can be verified. Its biggest characteristic is only sex and safety, not only to save the cost, more important is to save time improve efficiency convenient use, also very environmental protection and fashion. Before the exhibition, the organizer only through the system to give participants hair to contain QR code electronic invitation letter (MMS, SMS), the two-dimension code contains meeting message, as exhibition sign in documents. In the exhibition, the participants need to carry mobile phones easily finish attendance, bring the brand-new the experience. At the same time also to avoid the organizers field check information helter skelter embarrassment, and are very safe, effective identity verification, put an end to those false burst. The participants information in the validation, through the wireless communication system transmission to the system database, so that the exhibition participation situation be clear at a glance, and convenient to participate in the exhibition of the statistical work. The whole process adopted all electronic, the use of mobile phones as a certificate, realize the meeting attendance information. Difference between QR CODE and BAR CODE Code can split into one dimensional code and two dimensional code. one dimensional code is Bar code. It make up by a rule arrange strip space and number . this kind data coding can supply machine cognition and read,is very easy to translate binary system and decimal system. Bar code distinguish fast and high veracity  ¼Ã…’great fiexiblityà £Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â‚¬Å¡But, because of the Bar code only in one direction (horizontal) commonly show information. So the data capacity is small. Bar code often need to connect to the database in order to get more data from the network by limited information capacity. But Bar code will loses the role in under the condition of not forget or database. The QR code use Bar codes information stored way extension in the two-dimensional space, do not need to connect a database, it can store large data by itself, it is high density large capacity. QR code also have wide coding, high recognition rate, difficult to abrasion .low cost etc.It can be printed in newspapers and magazines and periodicals,let people use mobile phone to reader it. Risk It also have some problem with QR code. Some QR code is malicious. If you are a QR code lover, please kill virus when you scan the doubtable QR code, Or you need pay attention to instill the program which is after scan QR code.Beacuse some malicious QR code will steal your money and break your daily life. Most malicious QR code is seducing people installe program to commit fraud. People should be sure to read the phone installation prompts are given. The other malicious QR code is include virus. After you scan the QR code, it will install the mobile phone virus secretly. On top of, QR code security problem even live in code scanning software, some malicious QR code software will install virus or malicious ads in advance, if you instill it ,you mobile phone will get the malicious ads and high costs. These actions could occur in the background while the user is only seeing the reader opening a seemingly harmless web page. For example: In Russia, a malicious QR Code caused phones that s canned it to send premium texts at a fee of US$6 each. Colorful with QR code We usually see most software generated QR code is black when few years ago. Now we see most advertisement have colorful and personality QR code. This kind QR code s generation technique is not difficult.and this is young man love. Base on QR code never afraid local damage ,the QR codes part be overwritten or lost, scanning machine still be able to identify its record of complete information. Some website already provide free colorful QR code service to people. There are many personality QR code production tools in the internet ,if you like it ,you can do it by yourself. When you scan this QR code. You will get love you foreverby chinese. Conclusion I suggest our company use the QR code technology. QR code as things networking age a recognition terminal, will change peoples future life, also can make the future life more low carbon. The technology is cheap,it can not cost company much money. Never mind it will broken or lost . It is easy to carry that is in your mobile phone. And personality QR code will make staff have fun. The QR code let the staff work easily and environmentaly. So I suggest our company use the QR code technology.

The Canadian Economy- Smith or Marx Theory? Essay -- essays research

The economic concepts that were visualized by Adam Smith and Karl Marx lead to the idea that Canada fits towards both quite well. Their concepts are reflected quite clearly in the economic situation of Canada, and the theories of both can be applied. In a way, both Marx and Smith would be pleased with the economy of Canada, as it lends to their ideas and presents a positive economy for Canadian residents. While some may argue that Canadian economy should be a bit more as their southern neighbor the United States, it is also argued that Canada’s mixed economy provides a perfect blend of corporate and government responsibility.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  When it comes the Smith’s theories, the one that stands out the most would be his theory of the â€Å"invisible hand†. This â€Å"hand† controlled the economy by driving prices down through competition and resources. This metaphorical â€Å"hand† exists today in Canada, as the citizens benefit from variety. The variety of products and services available almost always leave room for an alternative, which is what, in effect, forces prices to be lower. Canada’s â€Å"invisible hand† may take the modern form of technology, as it affects the means by which products are produced. If for instance, a new mode of manufacturing Product A is formulated, and it allows Product A to be manufactured at a lower price, then the price of Product A will be cheaper. This causes the competitive price to drop, which allows consumers to benefit from lower prices. The division of labour does exist, however not to the intensity Smith stated in his theory. In companies today, there is a specialization of a sort to specific positions, but usually it is not to one specific task, but to an area. There are, however, exceptions, such in factory work, when an employee may do the same job for a long period of time. The specialization of workers is, in fact, a management technique. Fredrick Taylor, occasionally called the â€Å"father of scientific management† developed the concept that for every job a specific rule of motion and training should be developed in order to increase and achieve maximum productivity. Smith felt that slavery was an improper use of human resources, as there was no internal drive in a worker who basically worked for nothing. He would be impressed by the fact that there is no slavery in our economy and that it is actually against the la... ...thinkpiece/000702.php   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  This site is a part of the Adam Smith Institute’s website, so it is obvious there would be bias. The author is the director of the institute, but he raises some key important points in this short but informative article. The site was informative in summarizing the wealth of nations and putting ideas into perspective by using simple examples. Myers. Peter. â€Å"Karl Marx†. 2 August 2001   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚     Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  An extremely informative view of world trade from the point of view of Karl Marx, this site outlines the concepts, which related to world trade as well as many of his other ideas. Includes excerpts and paragraphs from his works, which again, leave little room for distortion due to interpretation because one is reading straight from the source. Schermerhorn. â€Å"Management: Sixth Edition.† Chapter 4. United States of America: Garamond Book. 2001. 72-73.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  This is a textbook utilized in a grade 12 management course. The section used outlines the concepts of Frederick W. Taylor. The concepts applied directly because of the idea of specialization within taskforces.

Interview Ceo

INTERVIEW 1/- During operating process of NIPPOVINA company for years, have you ever faced with the business ethical dilemma? Yes, a lot. Because launching business means making profit as much as possible while still manage to responsible for those strict environmental and human standards. Therefore, many conflicts occur day by day, making me so frustrated. 2/-In your opinion, how to resolve these issues in a best way? I think there aren’t any best ways to resolve the problem, there is only a better way. We have to scarify unnecessary things to get what you want.So many times when I have to consider carefully a number of factors such as company reputation, customer trust, product quality, new cost†¦ and make the final decision. 3/- For example, Nippovina company signed with the investor works B, produce the items made exclusively for B, request at the highest quality. But there is a small error in the production process cause tiny scratches on the surface but private rel igious mind is made which leads to the shipment is not satisfactory. He recovered but religion measuring?It depends on many factors, such as the value of the order is big or small, client B is long-time essential or new partners, how much the reputation of the company will affect, I may chose to revoke or deliver the cargo. 4 /- Assuming that all of these factors are very large, what would you do? Maybe I will not withdraw. Small scratches will not affect much to the quality of work, on the other hand, our company still operating and maintenance materials. 5 / – The motto of the company is always ready to provide the best materials, professional service technology.So in this case, do you think was the company not able to follow that motto? We are committed to using imported equipment, the best material for all projects, and try to comply with the most rigorous way. However the negligence and carelessness are inevitable, I cannot dismiss a skilled worker with only a scratch. I also fully do compensate the loss of time and money if I do not complete the order within the time limit. So, as mentioned above, after careful consideration, I sometimes have to trade off. FindingsWorrying about the CEO may argue in favor of his own behavior, the interview asked some question in the making assumption way so as to make the CEO answer sincerely. During the research process, the interviewer has investigated and found out the truth about an unqualified consignment. This was told by a manager who blows the whistle. The interview indicates that the CEO concern about the ethical dilemma that he was facing. Although each question is straight forward the problem, the CEO still feel comfortable to answer honestly. Many problems such as stakeholder profit, trust, loyalty are mentioned and discussed below.

The Truth Behind the Alien Reptile Hoax

The Truth Behind the Alien Reptile Hoax In 1990, a former British soccer player named David Icke began sharing his psychic visions with the world. According to Icke, our planet is secretly being controlled by a race of humanoid reptiles from the Alpha Draconis star system, 300 light years away. Not only do these reptoids or reptilians live underground beneath the earths major cities, Icke contends, but they drink human blood and have the ability to shape-shift. Sadly, most of the worlds leaders have already been co-opted by these evil reptiles; Icke and his followers believe that former president George W. Bush and Queen Elizabeth II are both reptoids in disguise. Of course, Icke isnt the first person in history to ascribe supernatural powers to reptiles. Snake- and crocodile-like gods are common in ancient mythology, and there were some notable pop-culture reptilian references that preceded Icke (and may, in fact, have directly influenced his philosophy). In 1983, the hugely successful TV miniseries V featured an invasion by conniving alien reptiles disguised as humanoids. After Icke appeared on the scene, the most famous fictional reptilian is arguably the snake-like Voldemort from the Harry Potter books; however, theres no evidence that J.K. Rowling even knows who David Icke is. Are Reptoids Really Intelligent Dinosaurs? Its unclear whether or not Icke believes that his alien reptoids descended from, or were somehow responsible for, the dinosaurs that roamed the earth until 65 million years ago. However, bizarre conspiracy theories have a way of rapidly mutating, and the Icke cult has spawned a subset of enthusiasts who believe that dinosaurs didnt, in fact, go extinct, but evolved into super-intelligent reptoids- so super-intelligent, in fact, that theyve managed to evade detection to this day, except (perhaps) by ex-footballers prone to psychic visions. These conspiracy theorists have received an unintentional boost from North Carolina State paleontologist Dale Russell, who in 1982 published a paper speculating about what might have become of the dinosaur Troodon had the K/T Extinction not happened. Since Troodon was an uncommonly intelligent dinosaur, Russell surmised, its uninterrupted evolutionary arc might have resulted, tens of millions of years later, in a race of super-intelligent, humanoid reptilians. One common attribute of conspiracy theorists (not to mention religious fundamentalists and disbelievers in the theory of evolution) is to take the speculations of reputable scientists as established, carved-in-stone fact. Today, most adherents of the reptoid cult cite Russells paper as proving the existence of humanoid reptiles, and many uninformed readers have helped spread the word. Russell himself, of course, meant no such thing, and is doubtless embarrassed by the cult he unintentionally fueled with his research. Are Humanoid Reptiles a Scientific Possibility? Despite what Icke and other conspiracy theorists claim, theres absolutely no proof that a race of super-intelligent reptoids (or Martians, or swamp monsters) lurk beneath the sewers of Paris, New York, and Beijing. There is also no evidence that the earth has ever been visited by flying saucers or that reptilian aliens have tinkered with human DNA, or that Queen Elizabeth II is a lizard in disguise (though some Icke cultists claim to have seen a second eyelid flickering across her pupils, if you look really closely at slowed-down news footage). But is it possible that an isolated population of meat-eating dinosaurs (Troodon, or some other genus) managed to survive the K/T Extinction, and persist to this day on some remote island or in the middle of a dense rain forest? The odds are vanishingly small, but not zero. However, the chances are even more remote for a scenario in which these dinosaurs have evolved into super-intelligent beings, which would require (among other things) a huge increase in their population, making detection by (and competition with) contemporary human beings a certainty. The fact is that reptoids, reptilians, or whatever you want to call them simply dont exist, despite what David Icke and his followers claim.

Mary Shelleys Frankenstein Research Paper Example

Mary Shelleys Frankenstein Research Paper Example Mary Shelleys Frankenstein Paper Mary Shelleys Frankenstein Paper Essay Topic: Dr Faustus Frankenstein Invisible Monsters One to make the reader dread to look round, to curdle the blood, and quicken the beatings of the heart this was Mary Shelleys intention when she created Frankenstein the definitive gothic novel . Though this was unheard of for a woman writing in 1816 she did just that. Influenced by the events around her, the new scientific developments and social unrest conveyed through her depiction of Victor and through the monster she reveals an outraged awareness of social injustice and a passionate desire for reform. Throughout the novel we are given an image of monster and creator this is conveyed through the central characters. Shelley presents a tale of gothic horror in which we are given opportunities to feel sorry for both main characters; yet we are inclined to feel more sympathy for the monster who after all is a victim of a man essentially playing God. Throughout the novel Shelley plays with our psyche and sympathies as reader, but it is clear that the monster deserves our pity more than Victor. Victor was given a wonderful loving upbringing and was clearly a spoilt child I was their plaything and their idol whereas the monster had none of that; he was not loved by anyone, just Victors mistake. The monster was left alone to wonder where his companions were, But where were my friends and relations? No father had watched my infant days; no mother had blessed me Our sympathies lie in favour of the monster after all he was the one that was unjustly abandoned and left to feel isolated without a friend in the world. Shelley then leads us to believe that the monster will be accepted by his benefactors the De lacys as the creature is accepted and reassured by the blind mans words I am poor and an exile, but it will afford me true pleasure to be in any way serviceable to a human creature the desperate monster is then beaten out of the cottage by Felix and his only hope of happiness is ruined. Deep down the monster is a kind and worthy creature he found his store always replenished by an invisible hand It is only when he finds out that the family out of fear has permanently left the cottage that he starts to feel negative emotions such as hatred and revenge for the first time the feelings of revenge and hatred filled my bosom, I bent my mind towards injury and death. However these feelings are not directed towards the De Lacy family, but to Victor. But, as reader we should understand the monsters point of view, Victor, ultimately is the cause of all his problems; he made the monster ugly then abandoned him, it is his fault that the monster does not fit in, this makes us more inclined to feel bitterness and resentment towards Victor, He should not have meddled with life if he could not finish what he had started. Victor does feel some compassion when the monster relates his story I compassionated him and sometimes felt a wish to console him, and agrees to the monsters requests You must create a female for me Victor gets the monsters hopes up as he starts to believe that he may have a companion to console him then just as his second creation his finished Victor selfishly destroys it before the creatures very eyes do you dare break your promise? I have endured toil and misery Victor shows his selfish nature at other times during the novel, when he is exhausted on Waltons ship and the crew want to go home because it is too dangerous, he responds by accusing the men of cowardice and unmanly behaviour. If they were to abandon their expedition they would return home with a stigma of disgrace judging by his words he has not learnt anything from his ordeal with his monster. He apparently still feels that people should put their own desires above more important issues! Another example of this is the way that he deals with the monsters threats it is clear that the monster wants to hurt him and have his rightful revenge, but Victor assumes that it is only him that the creature wants to kill I will be with you on your wedding night, such was my sentence, and on that night would the daemon employ every art to destroy me from the glimpse of happiness. Yet it is clear that the best way to get to Victor is to harm the people that he loves as the monster has already witnessed Victors reactions towards their deaths, he does not realise this otherwise he would have been more protective of Elizabeth. Though very tragic for Victor and we should feel sorry for him when she is killed it is completely his fault, he was naive and utterly careless to leave somebody that he loves alone while a revengeful monster that is roaming around voicing threats. Victor had the chance to change everything before Elizabeth was murdered and was guaranteed that the monster would leave his family and himself alone for the remainder of their lives. He is just like Dr. Faustus who also had the chance to turn things around and repent the good angel states that it is never too late if Faustus will repent. The angel means if the Doctor repents of his evil decision to turn from God and make a deal with the devil for conjuring powers, he can still be saved. However, the bad angel on Dr. Faustus shoulder soon responds that it is too late. Similarly Victor does leave things too late yet he still had some relatives left worth saving like his father . Although it is clear that Victor has already lost everything and the people that he cherished the most. Our sympathies can now lie with either the monster or his creator as Victor is in a terrible predicament he cannot win either way incase the monster goes back on his word. Victor is torn between morals and his family it is a shame he did not consider that to begin with. Another reason that we should sympathize with the monster is that he did not want or enjoy killing anybody and that the killings did not make him feel better he says that he was the slave, not the master, of an impulse which I detested, yet could not disobey The monster, just like Victor, reaches a point where no feelings are left except hatred. The monster is essentially the one going through the most torment he has to live with what he has done, seeing his creator dead on Waltons ship he shows remorse and with an immense self hatred he tells Walton that he will consume to ashes this miserable frame. Nobody has won the novel ends and both die without satisfaction. The monster did not get a companion nor was he accepted, and Victor lost everything worth living for, they drove there selves to destruction, neither of them would give up as I stated earlier they created a vicious circle in which in the end consumed them both. The monster went through his life lonely and abhorred the only kind moment he had was with the blind De Lacy which was soon ruined by Felix, he did not enjoy his life and was only giving his creator a taste of what he was put through, this essentially is why as reader I believe the monster deserves our pity as nobody should go through life that miserable and despised, he had nobody to care for him at least Victor experienced happiness. Carla Wells Show preview only The above preview is unformatted text This student written piece of work is one of many that can be found in our GCSE Mary Shelley section. Download this essay Print Save Not the one?

The Theory of Obligation Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

The Theory of Obligation - Essay Example The religious obligations prohibit the individuals from committing sins i.e. lying, cheating, adultery, fornication, drinking and disobeying the parents, teachers, and elders at large. Similarly cultural obligations demand for observing the norms, values and traditions, prevailing in the social establishment. Consequently, theory of obligation encompasses all aspects of individual and collective human life in order to make society a peaceful place of living. Great philosopher of ancient Greece Aristotle has presented his Theory of Virtue where he submits to state that the source of all kinds of virtue and goodness is one and the same (Nicomachean Ethics, 1096a30). The notion is universally followed by the thinkers and philosophers by taking it the scale to measure the magnitude of good and positive behaviour of the people and its association with their overall attitude while entering into interaction with others. Aristotle’s mentor Plato has presented the doctrine that Almight y God is the source of all goodness and energy, from Whom all goodness arrives to illuminate the universe. Aristotelian proposition is based upon his famous doctrine of the soul, where body contains the soul, it must possess the qualities attributed to the soul. However, body is frequently stated as materialistic and unholy one in comparison to the soul, which is pure and clean. In other words, goodness of soul can be witnessed through the performances being made by the human body containing the attributes of the soul existing into the body. PART II Keeping in view the Obligation Theory as well as Aristotelian doctrine of Virtue, I will strictly observe kindness, benevolence, meekness, humility, truthfulness, equality and justice while interacting with other members of society. I will stick to these noble principles in my individual and social life. I will pay due heed to my studies, and would strive my best to obtain excellent marks in examination. Hence, I will not deceive my pare nts and teachers, who are making investment of time, and energies on my educational career. I will attend the church on every Sunday in order to pay my humblest gratitude to my Creator for His countless mercies and bounties upon me. I will try to follow the noble teachings manifestly mentioned in the Holy Scripture, which commands me to worship One God, obey my parents, be humble in prayers, respect the elders, love to the younger, exhibit honesty and integrity in transactions, to help the needy, care the neighbours, be polite to others, and refrain from adultery, fornication, lying, deceiving and breaking the Covenant to the Lord (Leviticus, 19). I will be loyal to my peers in the playground, and sincere to my organisation while entering the professional life. I will try my best to work for the good name and fame of my work place. While elaborating my political views, I will vote and support the most suitable, honest and committed candidate, and hence will never take his racial, et hnic and religious background altogether. I will visit community centres and hospitals at least once in fortnight in order to witness the problems faced by the people belonging to my community. I will spend some money on charitable issues, to provide financial and moral support to the downtrodden and needy.

MPH503 - Infertility and Public Health Module 4 - SLP Essay

MPH503 - Infertility and Public Health Module 4 - SLP - Essay Example he objective to educate them about the common emotional and physical health issues faced by infertile couples and role of a caregiver in this situation. Below explains the method of assessment of the impact of the above workshop. The participants are given a question paper with 10 questions (combination of both multiple choice and open ended questions) to answer immediately before starting the programme. The questionnaire is consisted of the questions which help to identify the pre-exposure knowledge and the typical practice of the participants related to emotional and physical health issues of infertile individuals. The same questionnaire will be given to the same participants at the end of the workshop. Questions are given marks according to a scale and mean total scores of pre and post exposure questions will be statistically compared to find out possible significant improvement. Statistical significance indicates the efficiency of the workshop. This assessment helps to find out whether the things learned at the workshop effectively practiced by the participants at the institution and whether they really help to beneficiaries to overcome their problems. A random sample of 20 infertile individuals treated at the institution are selected. They are interviewed face to face to find answers to pre prepared questions. This will be done within a week before the workshop. The questions are carefully prepared to understand the current physical and psychological support received by the infertile individuals by primary caregivers and the effectiveness. Between one to two weeks after the workshop a random sample of 20 infertile individuals (not the same individuals selected for the first sample) is selected and face to face interview is scheduled to cover the answers to same questions about practice of the primary health care