Marks And Spencer Is Clothing And Food Based Commerce Essay

Marks And Spencer Is Clothing And Food Based Commerce Essay Marks and Spencer is clothing and food based Company. The Company is committed towards creativity, innovation, and customer satisfaction, through enhancing quality and value of their products. Marks and Spencer enjoyed great profitability and success, due to the presence of a large market with few competitors (BBC, 2004). However, this did not last for long, and the Company, started facing many challenges, in the context of global competition and management (MS: Fighting Structural Decline, 2006). These challenges emanated from the internal and external environment. Despite these setbacks, the Company has major opportunities arising from the large market segment, increase in demand, and technological advancement (Research and Markets. 5). This paper explores the challenges, and sources of competitive advantage include knowledge management, social media marketing and the use of virtual organizations for Marks and Spencer Company. Discussion The current and future of the fashion and food industry favours the business ventures of Marks and Spencer (Company Spotlight: Marks and Spencer Group plc, 2004). The company has a well- established market positioning and brand image, which enhances its current and future advantage over other competitors (Marks Spencer Group PLC SWOT Analysis, 2007). However, these alone are not enough, as the Company has to consider other internal and external factors, useful in supplementing these attributes in order to achieve sustainability and profitability (Webster, 2006). In order to remain competitive, Marks and Spencer has to embrace change strategies, and Human Resource policies, which will enable it to gain a competitive edge (Grundy, 2005). The Company seeks to recruit worldwide talent in order to acquire competent employees (Marks and Spencer, 2012). The sources of competitive advantage are costs and differentiation, competent and capable workforce, and effective knowledge management, which serve as great assets to any organization (Chesebrough, 2006). Cost and differentiation leadership seeks competitive advantage in a broad industry, while cost and differentiation focus strategies are useful in a narrow industry (Wheelen and Hunger, 2010). Marks and Spencer Company must come up with new strategies, in order to remain competitive, and sustainable (Ogden and Wersun, 2006). Competitive advantage can be gained through offering greater value to customers, which justifies higher pricing. One of the key assets that the Company can exploit is its employees. The Company is faced with the challenge of pleasing its customers, and getting the best from its employees. Marks and Spencer can use its employees as a source of competitive advantage since it has high reputation for focusing on customer service. Competent employees can innovate and use their skills to ensure that they revive the Companyà ¢Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ¬Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¾Ã‚ ¢s lost glory (Kemp, 2012). The Human resource department can seek to attain competitive edge by strategic deployment of capable and highly committed workforce. It can use a variety of integrated structural, personnel and cultural techniques. Some of the techniques include equal employment opportunities in order to create a diverse workforce. Diversity has introduced new talent and increased the potential of the Company, which is highly required in the face of stiff global competition (DATAMONITOR: Marks and Spencer Group plc, 2011). Gaining and retention of a competitive edge is vital to success of an organization (Banfield and Kay, 2008). Competent and diverse employees are valuable assets in an organization, and can enhance profitability and sustainability of an organization. Human resource department is liable for employees within an organization. HR functions such as selection, recruitment, training, coaching and motivation, are among the methods used by the HR in order to enhance the capability, and diversity of the workforce (Luthans, 1998). Marks and Spencer can provide equal employment opportunity in order to enable the organization to overcome the impacts of past discrimination against minority groups, and gender bias, and continue to attract, recruit, employ, promote, and retain competent employees in the Company. This helps in achieving diversity goals within the organization (Le Pla, 2012). Effective human resource practices enable an organization to gain a competitive edge over other competitors. Human resource department is responsible for ensuring that the employees are adequately motivated, and qualified for their jobs, in order to achieve profitability and sustainability of an organization (Banfield and Kay, 2008). Effective management of resources enhances sustainability, and profitability of an organization. Training and employee empowerment helps to decentralize decision- making and authority delegation to the store managers (Cole, 2004). Human resource tools and techniques are potent instruments for achievement of competitive edge and sustainability of an organization (Boddy, 2005). The human resource function is closely associated with sustainability and competitive advantage of an organization. Capable employees are an important asset, and enhance the success of the organization. It is crucial for the Company to enhance the potential of their employees, through provision of equal employment opportunities, in order to remain innovative and competitive in an evolving business world (Kemp, 2012). One of the Companyà ¢Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ¬Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¾Ã‚ ¢s strategies is to regain the core customers through delivery of significant improvements in the product value, appeal, and availability (Chiang, 2011). Capable workforce explores all the opportunities, and innovate products in a bid to remain competitive and provide solutions to various challenges that arise due to the dynamic business environment (Le Pla, 2012). For instance, there is need to differentiate the different markets and come up with fashions that suit the needs of the younger and older generations. Innovative and competent workforce will be committed to delivery of trendy and fashionable clothing that suits the different markets (Kemp, 2012). Effective management of human resources results to enhanced potential to attract and retain capable employees, who are committed to performance (Banfield and Kay, 2008). This enhances profitability, sustainability, and places the organization at a competitive advantage. Knowledge is viewed as a crucial asset in an organization (Chesebrough, 2006). Effective knowledge management offers a competitive edge to an organization (Lin, 2006). The success of a business depends on its system and intellectual capabilities. Knowledge management is a widely applied technique in Marks and Spencer and the worldwide which is a key element towards innovation of new ideas and processes. Effective management of knowledge reduces operational costs significantly, especially now, when Marks and Spencer is trying to reduce its operational costs. It can significantly improve the quality of services and products and makes a remarkable contribution towards improving business excellence (Laudon and Laudon, 2002). This can be evidenced by a significant reduction in operational costs, enhanced productivity, profitability, sustainability, growth and improved product and service delivery (FSN 2007). In business, prior knowledge on the consumer needs and market dynamics helps a bu siness to be more proactive (Marks Spencer: fail fast, 2012). Knowledge on employee, customer, stakeholders and industrial needs, has a direct effect on relationship management. Effective application of knowledge improves the performance and productivity of a business significantly (Davenport and Beers, 1998). It helps to deliver the stakeholders expectations and earn their trust, which is highly applicable to the Company, especially during its recovery period. Companies practicing effective knowledge management are able to turn their ideas quickly into innovative services and products. Knowledge management of the global economy will help the business significantly. In the current business world, knowledge has become major strategic asset and organizations must acquire and develop effective strategies in the identification, development and application of knowledge in order for them to succeed in their goals (Davenport and Beers, 1998). Social media marketing via the web offers a cost effective marketing options (Gibson, 2009). A marketer can reach many people, and they too can share the information with their friends thus, creating a large social network (Kimberly, 2012). The social media marketing offers an organization, a platform to connect and communicate with the customers (ADWATCH, 2006). It helps businesses to reduce the operational costs through minimizing the publication and distribution costs (Zarrella, 2010). Effective use of social media will help the Company reach many potential consumers all over the world (Marks Spencer set to enter Egyptian retail market, 2010). Conclusion/ Recommendations To conclude, Marks and Spencer achieve the advantage it enjoyed so far by some reasons. Firstly, it was the quintessential British store since its establishment. The price of its products was always reasonable with high quality. This helps to consolidate its brand image and keeps the customers. Furthermore, the employees form a crucial element in the recovery strategy of Marks and Spencer. They are important assets in enhancing the success of the customer-based efforts, business refocusing, handling reforms, and correcting the issues that have challenged business at Marks and Spencer. Competent and dedicated workforce will help in bringing innovative fashions that will suit the older and younger generationsà ¢Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ¬Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¾Ã‚ ¢ needs. However, the Company needs to focus on its workforce in order to achieve their innovative goals for their present and future business growth and demands. It should also make a substantial amount of investment in the creation and implementat ion of the most appropriate knowledge networks, tools, processes, methods and technologies (Hibbard and Carrillo, 1998). This will enhance profitability and sustainability of the Company.

Look Before You Leap

Startled, Tom awoke to the ringing of his alarm, the day he had been waiting for had finally arrived. Sitting up, Tom tugged at his curly black hair and wiped the sleep out of his eyes. A feeling of excitement rushed through his body as he remembered that today was the day he was going to do the most exhilarating but equally terrifying thing he had ever dreamt of. Tom had turned eighteen the previous day and receiving a gift of skydiving had been something he had longed for. Growing up, Tom had always loved sports. His athletic frame had made him excel in all activities, however, he craved the trilling experience of extreme sports. Although anxious his parents had agreed this would be the perfect gift. After saying goodbye to his apprehensive parents, Tom headed off to the skydiving centre. He felt numb and uneasy as he drove the forty five minute drive to the skydiving centre anticipating the trill that lay ahead. Feeling the adrenaline kicking in, he saw the sign that read â€Å"Skydiving Centre†. Tom was led down a long winding road and finally arrived at the centre. Walking towards the vast white building, Tom could feel his heart pounding like the beating of a base drum. A tall stern looking man introduced himself as Allan, my instructor for the day. They proceeded to the training centre and initially went through a series of safety instructions. Through a haze of nerves and excitement, Tom listened as Allan enthusiastically explained and demonstrated every aspect of the jump. Several hours later Tom was deemed competent to take to the skies. Once fitted with his clothing and parachute, Tom followed Allan out to the vast runway where the small plane was awaiting him. His eyes lit up, and a serene smile spread across his face. Sitting in the back of the plane, a calm and composed Tom became anxious as he awaited take off. The roaring engines echoed in his ears and the plane shuddered uncontrollably as the plane left the security of the tarmac. Butterflies danced menacingly in Tom's stomach as he tried to listen vigilantly to Allan's instructions. Cautiously Tom peered out of the small window as cars and people turned into tiny pin heads and fields looked like a patch work quilt. â€Å"We have reached the required height† explained Allan, â€Å"are you ready to look before you leap†? As Allan opened the sliding door on the side of the plane the angry wind roared in with incredible force. Allan's voice became muffled as fear took over. Tom had told himself not to look before he leapt but he became fixated on the terrifying open space beneath him. He felt rooted to the spot as if bolts had been driven through his feet and unable to take that final step towards the edge of the plane. With Allan's support and words of encouragement Tom somehow found the courage to make that electrifying leap into the unknown. Adrenaline rushed through his body as free fall reached terminal velocity with the skin on his face pulling back so tight it felt as though it was going to tear. A feeling of euphoria gripped Tom as he was free falling through the sky at 125mph. Then at 5,000 feet, with the ground rapidly coming to meet him, he pulled his parachute cord hard and fast. Silence filled the sky as Tom's parachute opened and he experienced the breathtaking descent, free as a bird. The ground was fast approaching and Tom began to remember how he had been taught to land. Quicker than expected, Tom felt his feet running along the ground, all the fear and apprehension had disappeared. Tom had experienced a stimulating sensation that was difficult to explain to anyone who hadn't skydived. This had been a once in a lifetime experience where Tom's dreams had certainly become a reality. This unique and lasting experience was one he would never forget.

Persuasive Essay Topics on Henry Ford: No Longer a Mystery

Persuasive Essay Topics on Henry Ford: No Longer a Mystery The Persuasive Essay Topics on Henry Ford Game It's important to understand that essay topics are just basic ideas that leave you pondering an idea that might be a huge deal to another person. In case you haven't been given a specific topic by your tutor, you are fortunate and unlucky at precisely the same time. Sometimes, obtaining a list of topics can be just what you will need to finally decide on the ideal explanatory essay topic and get writing! There are many intriguing topics that could be become a persuasive essay if you take the opportunity to think about doing it. We've divided the topics into several groups to help it become simpler to get the one you truly wish to speak about. We've produced a list of topics to safeguard your audience laughs all of the way. Fun element is engaged in all elements of writing. Awareness depending on the internet and self-service application software is a significant tool in marketing. The Fight Against Persuasive Essay Topics on Henry Ford Being a real veterinarian looks like a difficult job. Marriages were torn apart, due to the absence of money. School holidays must be twice as long. Using Persuasive Essay Topics on Henry Ford Guns ought to be made illegal. Athletes should not be permitted to move teams. He's also seen among America's leading businessmen. Famous people set a terrible example for kids. The Tried and True Method for Persuasive Essay Topics on Henry Ford in Step by Step Detail People did not reproduce in the pure way and were selected in line with the qualities and techniques needed for the benefit of the society. Today's entrepreneur is frequently a self-starter, a tough worker and likes to compete. Everyone can grow to be a millionaire. Want to Know More About Persuasive Essay Topics on Henry Ford? It's true that you could simply quit eating. Dangerous animals ought to be killed. Fast food needs to be banned in schools. It should be taxed. You need to have critical thinking, use logic and reasoning to spot strengths and weakness of solutions as soon as it comes to problems. So as managers, we should earn a rational use of unique trends of leadership according to different circumstance. You'll also have to conduct effective research, obtaining facts and evidence to back up your ideas. In my private opinion everything needs to be basic understanding. Inside my perspective of life, it's about risk. It will be a lot better if you take a specific element, or period, of this life, and attempt to analyze it. These social relationships were created with differently-scaled men and women, combining executive and low-level individuals when it comes to financial status. But problems started to arise. The One Thing to Do for Persuasive Essay Topics on Henry Ford It's required you have a 4 year bachelor's degree together with your veterinarian doctorate degree. Achievement of desire is the thing that motivates us. There's one certain career which I want and I understand I would enjoy and love doing. The voting age has to be lowered. Persuasive Essay Topics on Henry Ford Secrets In October 1929 the stock exchange crashed. Money is important but only utilized as a method of keeping score. I would be making a lot of money along with enjoying my job. How to Choose Persuasive Essay Topics on Henry Ford In this manner, production ma naged to proceed without delays from suppliers or the cost of stockpiling. To attain this, the business has allied with unique institutions. There are numerous job offerings to turn into an exotic veterinarian annually. Cars should carry a greater tax. The expense of alcohol should be reduced. Vitamins added to foods are indispensable for the future. R-Rated films ought to be made available for younger viewers. Cigarettes need to be more expensive. The Birth of Persuasive Essay Topics on Henry Ford I have begun to like several forms of careers that I'll enjoy and that I'm good at as of right now. At the fundamental level, there's a motivation to call home. Male and female players ought to be allowed on the exact sports teams. Families with patients become educated by the system on leaving a wholesome life and take part in community organizations programs. To help you keep informed, we've listed websites that address healthcare policy topics. Additional teachers are necessary to train these students. The Hidden Truth About Persuasive Essay Topics on Henry Ford He changed the automobile industry in quite a few ways. You might also pick a different direction. At the moment, just a few cars were assembled per day, and groups of a couple of workers built them by hand from parts which were ordered from different businesses. Many of the cars which were created were experimental and never were sold to the general public, but there were a few successful models.

Essay on Everyday Use, Daffodils, and The Glass Menagerie

Lessons From Everyday Use, Daffodils, and The Glass Menagerie nbsp; Literature plays a major role in civilization.nbsp; Even societies without a written language have literature.nbsp; Stories, poems and songs are pasted down orally from one generation to another.nbsp; This term we have study three forms of literature; short stories, poems, and drama.nbsp; The study of these three forms has affected me in different ways and I have taken different lessons out of each form.nbsp; The three literary work witch had the greatest impact on me are Everyday Use written by Alice Walker, Daffodils written by William Wordsworth, and The Glass Menagerie written by Tennessee Williams. nbsp;†¦show more content†¦nbsp; nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp; William Wordsworths poem Daffodils is about having one moment in time where true happiness is found and being able to go back to that moment and recreate the joy.nbsp; Wordsworth starts the