Research Korner

Impact and Application of Information Technology in Petroleum Industry

IMPACT AND APPLICATION OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY IN PETROLEUM INDUSTRY   Introduction             The world is witnessing a miracle of thought and intelligence brought about by the birth and boom of telecommunication and information technology. This innovation has promoted globalization in areas of economic, cultural and social aspects. Indeed, it can be said that information technology and telecommunications are controlling the whole process of globalization. Geographic distances between countries and regions have been reduced dramatically and the exchange of information has been rapid. Because of information technology, people around the globe can instantly access any new achievements in science, technology, education, culture and art. This has eventually led to a stronger improvement of knowledge-based development (2000).             Indeed, industries, now and in the future, needs information technology in order to develop. One of the distinguishing characteristics of the knowledge based economy is the speed with which IT and knowledge change almost instantly. This raises an urgent task for human resource training policy, supplying both knowledge and technology for people’s application. To do this, investments to develop and modernize infrastructures and conditions for free access of all social organizations and enterprises to the information technology database had become top concerns in the human resource training policies of many industries ( 2000).             Primarily, the main goal of this paper is to determine the impact of information technology to Petroleum Industry. In this research, background information about petroleum industry will be discussed as well as the discussion of the concept of information technology. This paper will also provide the Importance of Technology to Petroleum Industry,   Problem Theme             The utilization of information technology in various industries, in this case, petroleum industry and its benefits had long been discussed in literature as well as recognized by various companies. However, the application of technology is yet really evaluated in petroleum sector as compared to business industries. This then raises the concern whether IT application has the capacity to improve the operations of groups delivering social services, or whether this will only lead to complications. Naturally, petroleum industries would want to improve their products and services that they provide as well as reduce cost of operation. It is then essential to find out how information technology work in this sector and how this will be applied to achieve successful outcomes.   Research Question             In order to carry out the appropriate process for this research, the study will be guided by the following question: What is the impact of information technology in petroleum industry?   Aim and Objectives This study aimed to determine the specific IT strategies that can increase the effectiveness in the petroleum industry. This study was conducted in order to achieve the following objectives: ·        To evaluate the current practice of IT usage in petroleum industry. ·        To make recommendations for a strategic plan for further IT implementation.   Background Information: Petroleum Industry             The Petroleum industry is considered to be one of the largest and powerful industries in the global market with operations encompassing every corner of the globe and with the world’s energy heavily dependent on oil and gas products ( 1997). Today, the petroleum industry composes of the global procedure of exploring, extracting, refining, transporting through oil tankers or pipelines, and marketing of the petroleum produce.   Significantly, 63% of the world’s energy is said to be sustained by oil and gas products, followed only by coal with 27%, nuclear energy with only 7%, and hydro-electric with 3% (1997). Furthermore, in 1994, nearly 8000 tones of oil and gas products were consumed globally.             This industry is made up of two parts, the upstream and downstream. The ‘upstream’ sector refers to the exploration and production (E&P) of oil and gas products, whose principal steps include (in order): Exploration Surveying – Aerial Survey and Seismic Operations (1st stage); Exploration & Appraisal Drilling (2nd stage); Development & Production (3rd stage); and, Decommissioning & Rehabilitation (final stage). On the other hand, the ‘downstream’ sector deals with refining and processing of crude oil and gas products, their transportation and distribution, and their marketing. Figure 4 shows the composition of the oil and gas industry (with the inclusion of the principal steps in the E&P sector). Figure 1: The Oil and Gas Industry Composition (Source:  2005)             Petroleum is very important to different industries and its significance to the maintenance of industrialized society and hence it is a critical concern for different countries.  Its production, distribution, refining as well as retailing is noted as the largest industry in the world in terms of dollar value since the world is consuming 30 billion barrels of oil annually, having developed countries to be the arrest consumers.             Concept of Information Technology             The introduction of information technology to different work sectors worldwide has led to a number of developments. Information technology (IT) is defined as the combined principle of telecommunications and computation so as to obtain, process, store, transmit and output information in the form of voice, pictures, words and numbers. In a number of ways, information technology has been able to support the activities and operations of various work sectors and business industries from all over (1999).             The transfer of information and data from one location to another via a transmission medium for example, is one of the common benefits brought about by information technology. Probably, this advantage can easily be understood by citing message switching through electronic mail as an example. More commonly known as e-mail, the electronic mail is one of the original services on the Internet that has enabled scientists and researchers working on government-sponsored projects to communicate with colleagues at other locations. At present, e-mail has made its way as a primary means of communication not only for business use but for personal use as well (2001).. Another important use of information technology to most work sectors is information retrieval. This feature pertains to the recovery of data stored in particular storage medium. At present, the availability of computers and various information systems help in making information retrieval less tedious and time-consuming. Aside from making the sending and receiving of information easier, information technology had also aided in making production faster. For instance, computers are now being used in several institutions and companies to do certain jobs, which people may not be capable of doing or may be too dangerous for them to handle. A computer for example may be utilized in the production of aluminum sheets to monitor the thickness of the products and report on the task at hand. If an individual is asked to perform such task in place of a computer, the worker may be subjected to certain chemicals and radiations which can possibly lead to injury. The growing significance of creating, processing and management of information has been highly prioritized by most economies worldwide. Perhaps, this transition of resources from the traditional productive activities of industrial and agricultural workers to the handling of information of white collar workers represents one of the major changes of the century. The adoption of information technology is one of the related changes that has transformed to how modern businesses and work activities are conducted. With the materialization of computer technology, the preparation of invoices, issue checks, tracking of the stock movement and storage of personnel and payroll record can be done by different machineries and modern technologies. The patterns of work in offices have significantly changed through the use of word processing and personal computers. Indeed, the spread of information technology has greatly affected the efficiency and competitiveness of major businesses, structure of the workforce and the economic output in general. In working organizations, information technology has been a part of its operation and workforce. Eventually, information technology has gained the attention of the organizations’ top management. Various factors had motivated the management division of companies to employ information technology. One of which is the constant and intense competition among similar corporations. Companies had then realized that by employing information technologies in their operations, they do not only become more cost-efficient but they are also able to improve the quality of their services. Another factor that had contributed to the increased need of information technology among working organizations is the necessity for global business operations to communicate through online computerized networks. This is so as to minimize time and distance barriers. Over the years, IT performance had significantly improved. Sharp experience curves, distributed processing and communication, and integration of alternative technologies have also made information technologies more capable of solving organizational structure and strategy issues. Indeed, information technologies have evolved over time, both in their significance and applications ( 2002). Information technology (IT), also commonly referred to as information and communication technology (ICT) has been applied in various forms within different business industries. In the manufacturing sector for example, IT has played a significant role in enhancing supply chain management (SCM) systems. A number of information technologies had been made available to owners of business organizations for this purpose, from less-sophisticated to more advanced systems. The supply chain operations of most businesses have been enhanced through information technology mainly when the concepts of business and consumers (B2C) and business (2000).   Importance of Technology to Petroleum Industry Recommendation Conclusion

Impact and Application of Information Technology in Petroleum Industry

IMPACT AND APPLICATION OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY IN PETROLEUM INDUSTRY Introduction The world is witnessing a miracle ...

Dominance Of Nestle Products After 30 Years In The Global Market

Dominance of Nestle Products after 30 years in the Global Market The humble beginning of Nestle Company   just started as a small food company,    with its very first product line the milk food formula.  However, it turned out a success in the market. And, because the owner’s dedication and hard work, it had been able to serve a diverse consumers in the world market.    Consequently,   it had always complied with the strict standard requirement and policy in processing its products.  The company has a clean and healthy working environment that had been even gone beyond the strict standard of the food industry law.  This essay reveals that Nestle has been using LC1 ingredient that best mixed with all their food and beverage products.   It was found out too that LC1 has been considered the most sought food ingredient in all Nestlé’s products. As a matter of fact, it is the active ingredient of most of the Nestle food products because of its outstanding health characteristics and health value provided to the human consumption.  Not only that, medical research even proved that robotic agent for human microbial food supplements that helps the human intestine to function better is the  active ingredient  in every Nestle product.  So, Nestle products have the ability to strengthen the human immune system against various diseases.     Obviously,  Nestle products  such as   such as baby foods, yogurts, breakfast cereals, dairy products, chocolates, ice creams,  confectionery, bottled water, prepared foods, beverages  among many others are  very dominant in the world market until these days. The affordability of the Nestle products as well as the wellness quality that the company has been promoted in the global market made them one of the leading and respected brand even in this new generation.  Apparently, the secret of the continuing success of the brand attributed to the core missions and objectives that it has for the whole world.  It has a strong commitment to its consumers to provide them with complete high quality made-natural food for the entire family.  Aside from that, Nestle never failed to provide babies food supplement and bottled milk for infants in every part of the globe.  The company brand has been a long time partner of all mothers out there   on raising their children well. This is also the major reason that until now, Nestle products are prominent brand over the rest of its competitors. (http://articles.castelarhost.com/nestle_background.htm) Furthermore, Nestle has been able to evolve with the modern world and society at large.  Every product has been tested to suit the taste of the consumers, from older, adults, young adults, teenagers, toddlers, and even babies in the market.  All its products have had captured the entire food requirements of the whole family. Apart from deepest understanding of its main responsibility to its consumers worldwide, it is also the best effort of the company to be able to identify the both basic and   advanced need of the customers.  More than that, every product that is out in the world market associated with complete health benefits that many people do not get from other products in the industry.  Foremost, the customers in this new generation are so meticulous and even smarter in choosing the right products or brands for them and for their families.  They   even go beyond commercialization; they know already the products that truly provide them continuous benefits   in terms of health and financial aspects.  The company knows very exactly to take good care of the welfare of the clients more than anything else.   (http://www.research.nestle.com/NR/rdonlyres/BD74B3CC-3E8C-4957-A009-35E8B69A7982/0/rd_brochure.pdf) Nestle   has a high standard R & D that  has been developed  new concepts and   create more wellness food for the whole family.   With the help of their advanced technology, the company never failed to bring premium natural food to the consumers...  Also, the very nature of  the food  only contains limited   industrial processed  food ingredients ;  the products contain more   natural ingredients  that have essential nutrients for the growth and  development  of  human bodies.  As a result, the company stills the number one trusted wellness brand of millions of consumers worldwide.   In similar manner, it even offers effective health solution to physical   problems among the consumers.   The company’s advocacy of healthy living and lifestyle    lead the consumers to become health conscious and put extra effort to engage in a regular fitness program during these days.  As various physical activities and sports together with the company’s global product campaign have been touching many lives all over the world.   This   lifetime advocacy of Nestle caused consumers to stick with their products.  Seemingly, it has already a tradition of every family to pass on the   patronage of Nestle brands from one generation to another generation.  1(http://www.research.nestle.com/NR/rdonlyres/BD74B3CC-3E8C-4957-A009-35E8B69A7982/0/rd_brochure.pdf)   References: (http://articles.castelarhost.com/nestle_background.htm) (http://www.research.nestle.com/NR/rdonlyres/BD74B3CC-3E8C-4957-A009-35E8B69A7982/0/rd_brochure.pdf)

Dominance Of Nestle Products After 30 Years In The Global Market

Dominance of Nestle Products after 30 years in the Global Market The humble beginning of Nestle Company just started as a small fo...

LAW ASSIGNMENT TUTORIAL QUESTIONS

TUTORIAL QUESTIONS   (1) A Pty. Ltd. has an issued capital of 100 $1.00 shares paid to 50 cents. B and C each hold 50 shares and are the directors of A Pty. Ltd. B borrows $50,000 from his bank on behalf of the company. Some time later, the business activities of A Pty. Ltd. fail and it becomes apparent that the company cannot repay the loan to the bank. B is known to own substantial assets and the bank wishes to recover the amounts outstanding on the loan from B. a. Advise B as to his liability. b. What steps could the bank have taken in order to recover the full amount from B? (2) X deposited $10,000 with Finance Deposits Pty. Ltd., a company controlled by Smith Jones, stockbrokers. Smith Jones has gone into liquidation owing large amounts to its bank, clients and depositors of money to its cash management arm. It appears that these creditors apart from the bank, will be unlikely to recover their money. Under Part 7.10 of the Corporations Law, investors may claim compensation for losses suffered as a result of the insolvency of a broker member of the Australian Stock Exchange, from the National Guarantee Fund. Finance Deposits Pty. Ltd. is not such a member. X believed that he deposited his money with Smith Jones. Can X claim compensation from the National Guarantee Fund? (3) Bingo Ltd. is a manufacturer of electrical goods. It entered into a contract with Melvin Ltd. a large discount retailer. Under this contract, Bingo Ltd. was to supply its goods exclusively to Melvin Ltd. The directors of Melvin Ltd. subsequently discover that a wholly-owned subsidiary of Bingo Ltd. is selling identical electrical goods to competitors at cheaper prices. It appears that the subsidiary was incorporated to enable Bingo Ltd. to avoid the effects of the contract with Melvin Ltd. Advise the directors. (4) Ace Pty. Ltd., is a company engaged in the business of retailing domestic electronic equipment. Its directors are Ruff and Reddy who also are the directors of Bland Pty. Ltd., a company which carries on the business of selling commercial electronic equipment mainly to offices. Both Ace Pty. Ltd., and Bland Pty. Ltd., have experienced difficulties in paying their debts. A secured creditor of Ace Pty. Ltd., demanded payment or threatened the company with bringing about its winding up. Ruff and Reddy transferred some funds from Bland Pty. Ltd., to Ace Pty. Ltd., in order to enable the secured creditor to be paid and to allow Ace Pty. Ltd., to trade out of trouble. Rodgers is a creditor of Bland Pty. Ltd., which soon after goes into liquidation. 19 1 Can Rodgers recover his debt from (a) Ace Pty. Ltd.? (b) Ruff and Reddy? (5) Z was an employee of Ace Ltd., a company which manufactured electronic equipment. The contract of employment entered into by Z and Ace Ltd. contained a restraint of trade clause which prevented Z from engaging in a business in competition with Ace Ltd. for a period of three years after leaving his employment. Ace Ltd. inserted this clause in the contract because it used certain secret, technical processes in its manufacturing business. Z left the employ of Ace Ltd. and soon after organised the incorporation of Modern Electronics Pty. Ltd. for the purpose of conducting the manufacture of electronic components. The shareholders of the company were Z's wife and several associates of Z who were under Z's control. Ace Ltd. wishes to know whether it can enforce the restraint of trade clause against Modern Electronics Pty. Ltd. Discuss. (6) A Ltd. holds 45% of the voting shares of B Pty. Ltd. In addition, A Ltd. holds all the preference shares issued by B Pty. Ltd. so that overall, A Ltd. holds 53% of the issued share capital of B Pty. Ltd. The preference shares carry a right to a 12% dividend, but no further rights. A nominee of A Ltd. holds a further 7% of the voting shares in B Pty Ltd. Under the Corporations Law: a. Can B Pty. Ltd. hold any shares in A Ltd? Explain. b. Are A Ltd. and B Pty Ltd. related companies? c. In what circumstances is it necessary to determine the existence of a holding company subsidiary relationship? (7) X and Y have been carrying on a successful business in partnership for some years. They now seek your advice as to the possible advantages and disadvantages of forming a company to take over the business. What factors should they consider? What type of company would best be suited to their needs? 20 1 Having decided to form a company, X and Y ask your advice on the following matters: i. What documents will or may have to be prepared in connection with the incorporation of the company? ii. What other steps must be taken? iii. What is the effect and significance of the certificate of incorporation? Refer to relevant sections and Forms as contained in the Australian Corporation and Securities Legislation and the Regulations therein wherever applicable. (8) Ozy Sail Pty. Ltd. is a company incorporated in 1985. It was set up to produce film and videos of Australian achievements in competitive sailing, for sale to television networks and to create a national sailing museum. The Constitution of the company listed the following objects:- a. to produce films about Australian participation in international sailing competitions; b. to construct a permanent exhibition of Australian sailing achievements in Fremantle; c. to promote interest in the sport of sailing; and d. to do all things which the directors consider necessary or incidental to the furtherance of the above objects. The Directors were Kelso and Bryant who both attended a competition in New York in order to make a film for sale to a television network in Australia. The Australian team at the competition was disqualified early in the event so Kelso decided to make a film called "New York Marathon" instead. On his return to Australian, Kelso entered into a contract with Channel 6 in Melbourne whereby the television station agreed to purchase the film for screening. Two weeks later, the station changed its mind and argued that the contract was invalid because it was outside the objects of Ozy Sail Pty. Ltd. Kelso then arranged for the sale of "New York Marathon" to a cable network in New York. Kelso proposes to make further films dealing with athletics for sale in America. Black holds 15% of the issued shares of Ozy Sail Pty. Ltd. He invested in the company because he is a sailing enthusiast weighing to promote the sport in Australia. He is unhappy about Ozy Sail Pty. Ltd. deviating from its original purpose and producing films on other sports and selling them overseas. 21 1 Advise Kelso on the following: a. the validity of the contract with Channel 6; b. any rights Black may have in objecting to the activities of Ozy Sail Pty. Ltd.; c. any steps that Kelso may take to ensure that the proposed activities may proceed. d. Would your answers to the above be different if the objects of Ozy Sail Pty. Ltd. included the following: "to carry on any other business which the board of directors may consider as being advantageous to the company" (9) Brick Pty. Ltd. has the following provisions contained in its Constitution : 1. Where a new issue of shares is made, they shall first be offered to existing members in proportion to the shares they presently hold. In the event of any member not accepting some or all of the shares to which he is entitled, those shares shall be offered to the remaining members in proportion to the shares they presently hold. 2. The sales manager of the company shall be A. Harris for a period of ten years at a salary of $75,000 to be increased by 10% per annum in each successive year for the term of his employment. 3. The directors may compel the transfer at valuation of the shares held by any member who is engaged or interested in a business in competition with the company. In such a case the shares will be transferred to such existing member or members as the directors nominate.' a. The directors purport to issue shares to an associate of theirs who is not presently a member of the company. X, a member of the company, claims that the shares must first be offered to existing members in accordance with article 1. Can he enforce this claim? b. Harris is dismissed from his position after two years. Can he sue the company for breach of contract? Would it make any difference if Harris was a member of the company? c. Brown holds 30% of the issued shares in a company engaged in the same business as Brick Pty. Ltd. On discovering this, the directors exercise their power conferred by provisions. Provisions has recently been included so as to compel the transfer of Brown's shares to a particular member at a price determined by an independent valuation. What if the valuation was at the discretion of the directors? (10) The Australian Broadcasting Tribunal ruled that Mr Bond was not a fit and proper person to hold a television broadcasting licence. Mr. Bond appealed against this decision and claimed that he was not the holder of a licence. A company of which he was a controlling shareholder held the licence. Is this argument valid? 22 1 (11) Mildred was the owner of a nursing home for the aged. In 1986 she formed a company, Pleasant Valley Pty. Ltd., for the purpose of purchasing the nursing home. She and four other family members each took up one share and Mildred was appointed the governing director of the company. In consideration of the purchase, the company was loaned $400,000 by Mildred payable on demand. Some months later, health inspectors visited the premises and discovered that various health standards were breached. Section 10 of the Aged Homes Act 1958 provides as follows: A person who fails to observe prescribed health standards in the operation of a registered nursing home shall be guilty of an offence - Penalty $5,000." The maintenance of health standards was the responsibility of Ruth who is a shareholder of Pleasant Valley Pty. Ltd. Mildred had directed Ruth to follow certain procedures which would have compiled with the legislation. Pleasant Valley Pty. Ltd. are being prosecuted for breach of the Aged Home Act. Advise Mildred. Would your answer by different if Ruth was a director of Pleasant Valley Pty. Ltd.? (12) The Constitution of A Pty. Ltd. provide that the directors are empowered to borrow up to $50,000. The directors purport to borrow on behalf of the company $70,000 from X. The directors then change their minds. Can X enforce the contract? (13) The Constitution of a company provided that any purchase of land by the directors required the approval of the general meeting. The directors entered into a contract for the purchase of land after showing the vendor a copy of the resolution of the general meeting approving the purchase. It turned out that there had not been a quorum present at the general meeting and the company wishes to avoid the contract. Advise. (14) A, B and C are the directors and equal shareholders of Hartford Pty. Ltd. a company engaged in manufacturing. At a meeting with X, an outside supplier, A and B said that A was managing director of Hartford Pty. Ltd. The Constitution of the company provided for the appointment of a managing director but in fact one had not been validly appointed. A entered into a contract with X on behalf of Hartford Pty. Ltd. for the supply of materials to the value of $20,000. Hartford Pty. Ltd. refuses to pay this amount on the basis that A was not its managing director and had no authority to enter into the contract on behalf of the company. Advise X. 23 1 (15) Daytone Pty. Ltd. is a company engaged in the manufacture of timber products. The directors of the company are A, B, C and D who are listed as directors of the company in its return lodged . E, who was formerly a director of the company is still engaged in management of the company but had ceased to be a director since being convicted of an offence involving fraud in the operation of another company. At all material times, A had been resident overseas and B has been very ill and neither had taken any part in the management of the company. C had acted as managing director of the company with the consent of the other directors, but at no time had he been actually appointed as managing director by the board. The company entered into a contract with Precision Engineering Pty. Ltd. to purchase new machinery for $300,000. The contract was signed by E "on behalf of Daytone Pty. Ltd.", after C had told a director of Precision Engineering Pty. Ltd. that he was managing director of Daytone and E was in charge of production matters. The machinery was delivered but Daytone refused to proceed with the contract because they found a similar machine available at a lower price. Advise the directors of Precision Engineering Pty Ltd. whether they can enforce payment under the contract. (16) Albert Ltd. is a subsidiary of Bravo Ltd which is a listed company controlled by Morris, a well-known entrepreneur. The active directors of Albert Ltd were Morris and his business associate Harris. It was widely known in the business community and press that Morris effectively controlled and dominated all companies in the group. Bravo Ltd. borrowed $100 million from Universal Bank. This loan was secured by a guarantee executed by Albert Ltd. and all other subsidiaries in the Morris group of companies. The common seal of Albert Ltd. was affixed to the guarantee and attested by Morris as director and Harris as company secretary even though Harris had not been appointed as secretary. The other directors of Albert Ltd was not told of this transaction and had no knowledge of it. The solicitor acting for Universal Bank noted that Harris had not been appointed as secretary according to documents lodged with the ASIC. Green was a finance manager for companies in the Morris group but not a director of any of the companies. He told the bank solicitor that the form stating that Harris had been appointed as Secretary was about to be lodged and everything was in order. Morris and Harris were present when this was said. The transaction proceeded but no documents were lodged with the ASIC. All companies in the Morris group fell into financial difficulties and soon after the Universal Bank sought to enforce the guarantee against Albert Ltd. (1) Is Albert Ltd bound by the guarantee? (2) Would your answer be different if the solicitor for Universal Bank knew that Harris had not been appointed as the company secretary but proceeded with the transactions despite this? 24 1 (17) Athol, Hartog and Brand are the partners of Ace Food Co., a supplier of imported grocery lines to retailers. They decide to incorporate a company, Ace Foods Pty. Ltd., with each holding an equal number of shares and each being a director. Prior to incorporation, Athol and Hartog entered into a contract with Gourmet Tucker Pty. Ltd. for the supply of caviar and champagne to the value of $3,000. The contract is signed by Athol and Hartog, as directors, on behalf of Ace Foods Pty Ltd., which at the time of the contract, unknown to Athol and Hartog, was not yet incorporated. Athol, Hartog and Brand, between themselves and their families, consume the caviar and champagne. Soon after incorporation of Ace Foods Pty. Ltd., a letter is received from Gourmet Tucket Pty. Ltd. demanding payment of $3,000. Athol writes back saying they will pay soon, but at the moment they are short of funds. Two months later, Ace Foods Ltd. is threatened with legal action. Advise as to the liability of: (a) Athol, Hartog and Brand, and (b) Ace Foods Pty. Ltd. (18). Albert was appointed a director of Oscar Pty. Ltd. by resolution of the general meeting for a period of twelve months. At the expiration of this term, Albert was not reappointed but has continued to act as a director and has participated in the management of the company. Is Albert an officer of Oscar Pty. Ltd.? (19) Can the following persons be directors of a company incorporated in Australia? (a) a resident of Singapore (b) a person under 18 years of age (c) another company (d) the company secretary (e) an undischarged bankrupt (f) a person convicted four years previously for offences involving stolen credit cards. (g) a person who was previously a director of two insolvent companies which had been wound up. (h) the company's auditor. Cite the relevant sections in support of your answer. (20) The majority of directors of Welco Ltd. wish to remove one of their number from the board. He was appointed to represent the interests of the preference shareholders. Advise the directors whether they can do this, and if so, what steps must be taken. Would your answer be different if Welco Ltd. was a proprietary company?

LAW ASSIGNMENT TUTORIAL QUESTIONS

TUTORIAL QUESTIONS (1) A Pty. Ltd. has an issued capital of 100 $1.00 shares paid to 50 cents. B and C each hold 50 shares and are...

Tourism planning linking to cycling track with Hong Kong heritage

1) Strength               Tourism planning linking to cycling track with Hong Kong heritage in new territories can be of effective assumption towards Ping Shan Heritage Trail as well as The Lung Yeuk Tau Heritage Trail as there is subject for preservation and recognition of HK tourism processes and development as there certain meanders through three villages and contains some of the most significant historical buildings in Yuen Long District in the New Territories. The ideal strength can be that the trails provide insight into the very foundation of Hong Kong life hundreds and hundreds of years ago when hard-working peasants worked their small farm holdings. Aside, the list topping off in terms of attractions along the trail assume Hong Kong's only ancient pagoda, the Tsui Shing Lau as believed to be in shape for more than 600 years due to restructuring as originally seven storeys tall, the pagoda was damaged by severe storm centuries ago and only the lowest three remain intact.               Another strength of Hong Kong heritage is what sets Hong Kong apart from the rest of Asia and in the world, Hong Kong have unique fusion of Eastern and Western cultures where the old and the new live side by side. Its incense-filled temples, glass-and-steel skyscrapers and noisy festivals have made Hong Kong the premier tourist destination in Asia. The usefulness awaits the New Territories since much of Hong Kong's rich heritage has been restored to its former glory as there gives an amazing insight into a unique past that is a vivid contrast to the city of today. There indicates assessment of potential functions of HK tourism as the cycling track will connect into a better community within right economic development strategy.              There can be connections of principal Asian destination cities into Hong Kong’s new territories as there is amiable function to spontaneous heritage attractions from cycling track allowing adamant contribution to tourism development in Hong Kong, there is revealing of tourism planning contrasts and similarities that will offer achievable insights into cultural practices and experience greater Hong Kong sites and leisure theme parks such as HK Ocean Park and Disneyland. Cycling track authorities can be actively pursuing tourism marketing and development initiatives in HK markets thus, incorporating the promotion of selected forms of tourism heritage in certain ways of stimulating visitor arrivals in the region as well as the employing of good heritage values upon defining and articulating national and cultural identity. Heritage is thus shown to have political and socio-cultural significance in addition to HK’s economic value from generating business revenues, currency exchange and employment.              The cycling track plan will help maintain and expand high priorities as to be allocated supporting standard planning and the increasing usage upon attracting visitors throughout HK and the rest of Asia. The HK heritage and tourism planning provides assistance of cultural heritage tourism to consulting services tailored to meet the needs of individual clients as well as to track cycling trends, provide training tools and advocates for increased HK heritage tourism assuming successful and sustainable cultural heritage tourism development as there implies that cultural heritage travelers stay longer and spend more money than other kinds of travelers into new territories. Ideal strength impose good cultural heritage in which HK tourism improves the quality of life of HK residents as well as tourists.                The strength has then put emphasis of heritage process as a matter of achieving comprehensive planning as means that HK heritage is considering good tourism resources, markets as well as programs within HK region. The degree to which tourism is addressed in such plans depends upon the relative importance of tourism in HK and how sensitive it is to tourism activities. Indeed, executing cycling track into new territories will make HK lifestyle easy and cozy and will ideally resolve environment issues such as air pollution thus, making HK a better place to live in and that sustainable process can be viewed as one modification factor and success tells all of HK heritage ways and tourism realization applied to Ping Shan Heritage Trail and Lung Yeuk Tau Heritage Trail respectively.   2) Opportunity               Another point for opportunity implies better market demands of cultural tourism and or cycling tourism in Hong Kong along adaptation of econometric models and to generate forecasts of international tourism arrivals to Hong Kong like, for the period of 2008 and after. There forecast the demand for Hong Kong tourism by residents from the ‘16 major origin countries/regions and the empirical results reveal that the most important factors that determine the demand for Hong Kong tourism are the costs of tourism in Hong Kong, the economic condition as measured by the income level in the origin countries/regions, the costs of tourism in the competing destinations and the ‘word of mouth’ effect.               There can be demand of tourism arrivals obtained from the demand models form the basis of policy formulations for the tourism industry in Hong Kong’ (Song et al., 2003) Furthermore, HK government will work with the Tourism Board and the trade to study the demand for cycling tourism and the feasibility of developing it as well as to promote cycling travel activities to test the HK market as the affluent population and the outbound of tourism and travel market demand reaches for certainly about 82 percent (Infrastructure and Logistics, 2008 (news.go.hk)) of market demands as rated by Hong Kong long travelers from HK government news. The awareness is to be found within the cycling tourism and market demands will have a strong impact to HK cyclists and the rest of the community.       3) Time flame   	 		 		 		Year 		 		 		Implementation/Process 	 	 		 		 		2008 		 		 		Gathering of immediate resources and 		materials of cycling track 	 	 		 		 		2009 		 		 		Pre and post testing of cycling track 		development and operative functioning 	 	 		 		 		2010 		 		 		Finish the linkage of the cycling 		tracks 	   4) Budget Linking up with the cycling tracks: 2 billions Linking up with the project engineers and the team: 15 to 20 million   5) Strategies & Suggestions   Strategies   1.       Improve quality of experience The strategy of adding up as well as imposing flexible tourism facilities from where the cycling tracks will improve quality of experience, the approach of applying communications channels for a successful HK tourism as based on HK people’s experiences and other factors.   2.       Improve tangible features The strategy can be to redesign features visible in the creation of the cycling tracks along with measurable and achievable planning 3.       Improve infrastructure To improve infrastructure, the need to choose proper HK engineering division unit is a must to keep effective infrastructure in best suit for cycling track users as well as to ensure safety of the project site plan 4.       Develop supportive local community To develop supportive local community, the HK government will have to recognize tourism campaigns and promotions that will strengthen tourism activities 5.       Strengthen linkages The approach to strengthen linkages is to integrate collaboration and partnerships of HK tourism and be able to preserve HK heritage and culture at its ideal form. To provide tourists and travelers the easiest way to appreciate overall HK region wherein the management of cycling track project will be successful and timely to detect improvements and possible changes. 6.       Implement effective marketing To implement effective marketing, the HK cycling track will have to create business opportunities within the track area such as adopting small kiosks wherein some products are to be sold such as food and beverages as well as souvenir items attracting HK tourists and other cyclists and from there effective marketing through business assumption are being achieved.      Suggestions               For suggestions, HK cycling will have to acquiring more resources for maintenance for tourists and public accessibility and should focus on social benefits and conservation for future HK generations, not business benefits only. The need to strike a balance between tourism and heritage track development. Aside, allowing diverse cycling project developers and HK tourism government to participate and handle the project together also, to consider the cost of the whole project and maintenance cost. HK government needs to be responsible for promoting the area for either cultural tourism and or cultural academic affairs. Apply business management principles and should have financial and operation strategy as well as establish cycling tourism committee with representatives from government, business area and tourism sponsors to monitor the project. HK government should take up responsibility in the future through subsidies. With regard to how resources are to be obtained from the cycling development and be generated from heritage processes and commercial activities to realize.           ________________     Infrastructure and Logistics (2008). Tourism: Cycling tourism demand to be studied (news.go.hk) Retrieved at:  http://news.gov.hk/en/category/infrastructureandlogistics/081112/html/081112en06003.htm   Song, H. et al. (2003). Modeling and forecasting the demand for Hong Kong tourism School of Management, University of Surrey, Guildford GU2 7XH, UK School of Hotel and Tourism Management, Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong Available online 16 September 2003.

Tourism planning linking to cycling track with Hong Kong heritage

1) Strength Tourism planning linking to cycling track with Hong Kong heritage in new territories can be of effective...

European Brewing Industries

European Brewing             The case centers on the changes in the macro-environment of the European Brewing Industry and how these changes affect the industry as a whole and each company in particular.   PEST Analysis Political             One of the factors that caused the decline in beer consumption is the active campaign of European governments against drunk driving. Economic             In European economies where beer consumption was historically high, there is a decline in the demands for beer, while in developing economies such as China and Brazil, the consumption of beer is steadily growing. Social             The health risks and problems associated with alcohol is now becoming a major issue among consumers. Binge drinking in pubs and clubs is also being discouraged. Technological             Technological advancements in beer, spirit, and wine production have made the process of creating drinks more accurate and easy. Companies have acquired experience, excellence and technological know-how in beer, spirit and wine production. Alliances, joint ventures and partnerships have increased the capacity of the industry as a whole.   Opportunities and Threats             A major threat for the beer industry is the intervention of European governments and other organizations in beer consumption. Increasing health research and findings are pointing to beer and other alcoholic beverages as potentially dangerous to health and fitness. The increasing reports on accidents caused or involving alcoholic beverages also added to the campaign against such drinks.             One of the seen opportunities is the increase in the demand of alcoholic beverages, particularly beers in developing economies such as China. Another possible opportunity is the increase in off-trade beer consumption worldwide. Another opportunity is the steady growth of demand for premium products such as extra-cold lagers or fruit-flavored beer.   Five Forces Analysis Competition among Existing Firms (High)             Competition among existing firms is high that is why these firms are pushed to create acquisition, licensing and strategic alliances in their effort to control the market. Threats of New Entrants (Low)             The threat of new entrants is very low, as old, family-owned, and established companies control the market and the industry. New and smaller breweries will suffer predation and they will not sustain growth in a highly competitive market. Threat of Substitute Products or Services (Medium)             There is a growing demand for substitute and exotic products from abroad while the demand for local beers is declining. However, European breweries cope with this by introducing innovative and premium products. Bargaining Power of Suppliers (High)             The main purchasing costs of European brewers are packaging and raw materials. The packaging industry is highly concentrated and dominated by few companies, enabling them to have tremendous power over prices. Bargaining Power of Consumers (High)             The consumers have a high bargaining power and the sudden changes in demands have caused companies to alter their strategies and to develop their products in order to attract the consumers.               Impact of the Trends for Each Company Heineken             Because of the increasing demands for beer outside Europe, Heineken which is based in The Netherlands is actively pursuing growth internationally. Grolsch             The steady increase of demands for imported beer, encouraged Grolsch from The Netherlands to acquire rights to sell and distribute the US Miller Brand. InBev             The changes in the macro-environment encouraged InBev to integrate all its activities and processes in order to optimize its network of breweries and facilitate sharing of best practice across sites internationally. Scottish and Newcastle             Increase in demands in developing countries such as Russia, Ukraine, China and India encouraged the company to acquire breweries and related companies to enable them to reach these markets.    Strengths and Weaknesses of Each Company Heineken Strengths <ul style="margin-top: 0in; margin-bottom: 0in" type="circle"> <li class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; line-height: 200%">Wide experience</li> <li class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; line-height: 200%">Acquired excellence and know-how</li> <li class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; line-height: 200%"> Reputation as the biggest European brewery</li> <li class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; line-height: 200%">Effective acquisition and growth strategies</li> </ul> Weaknesses <ul style="margin-top: 0in; margin-bottom: 0in" type="circle"> <li class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; line-height: 200%"> Family-controlled</li> <li class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; line-height: 200%">Only one famous brand – Heineken</li> <li class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; line-height: 200%">Does not focus on product development and innovation</li> </ul> Grolsch Strengths <ul style="margin-top: 0in; margin-bottom: 0in" type="circle"> <li class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; line-height: 200%">Focus on product innovation (introduction of premium lager and flavored beers)</li> <li class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; line-height: 200%">Rights to distribute popular beers such as US Miller</li> </ul> Weaknesses <ul style="margin-top: 0in; margin-bottom: 0in" type="circle"> <li class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; line-height: 200%">No clear strategy for growth</li> <li class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; line-height: 200%">Focuses on European markets, particularly the United Kingdom</li> </ul> InBev Strengths <ul style="margin-top: 0in; margin-bottom: 0in" type="circle"> <li class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; line-height: 200%">Largest brewer in the world in terms of turnover</li> <li class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; line-height: 200%">Owns well-known international brands</li> <li class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; line-height: 200%">Holds number one or two positions in 20 different countries</li> </ul> Weaknesses <ul style="margin-top: 0in; margin-bottom: 0in" type="circle"> <li class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; line-height: 200%">Speed of growth can be threatening and the company may not able to sustain it</li> <li class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; line-height: 200%">No clear plans to introduce new and innovative products</li> </ul> Scottish and Newcastle Strengths <ul style="margin-top: 0in; margin-bottom: 0in" type="circle"> <li class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; line-height: 200%">Well-know English brewer</li> <li class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; line-height: 200%">Market leader in the UK, France and Russia</li> <li class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; line-height: 200%">Effective acquisitions and investments in developing markets</li> </ul> Weaknesses <ul style="margin-top: 0in; margin-bottom: 0in" type="circle"> <li class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; line-height: 200%">Many breweries were closed down</li> <li class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; line-height: 200%">Slow growth</li> </ul>   Electrolux Issues Facing Electrolux 1. Globalization – globalization presents opportunities for Electrolux to explore markets outside Sweden but it also poses different challenges. One particular challenge is the intensification of competition. Electrolux, in its effort to become global is now competing with different companies around the world. Because of globalization productivity has risen and companies are able to balance quality and quantity. 2. Market Polarization – The combination of changing consumer preferences, the growth of global retail chains and greater global competition is leading to polarization of the market. 3. Consolidation of Retailers – The dealer structure in the house-hold appliances market is beginning to crumble as traditional dealers start to lose market shares to large retail chains. These large retailers benefit from high purchasing power and wide geographical coverage. This gives them greater opportunities to keep prices low.   Levels of Strategy Business Level Strategy – The company streamlined its product lines by focusing on the production of indoor appliances and abandoning outdoor products. The business level strategy of Electrolux focuses on differentiation and cost leadership. Strategic Position 1. Environment <ul style="margin-top: 0in; margin-bottom: 0in" type="circle"> <li class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; line-height: 200%"> Globalization</li> <li class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; line-height: 200%">Market Polarization</li> <li class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; line-height: 200%"> Consolidation of Retailers</li> </ul> 2. Capability             The expectations of the management were achieved by: <ul style="margin-top: 0in; margin-bottom: 0in" type="circle"> <li class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; line-height: 200%"> Continuing to cut costs and drive out complexity in all aspects of operations</li> <li class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; line-height: 200%"> Increasing the investment in marketing and building Electrolux brand as the global leader in the industry.</li> </ul> 3. Expectations             The expectations of Electrolux’s management is to be able to accelerate the development of Electrolux as a market-driven company, based on greater understanding of customer needs. Strategy Development Process             The first step in the strategy development process at Electrolux is the identification of the company’s problems, its current position and where it wants to go (goals). Next, the top management generated options, policies and measures. After the presentation of options, the management appraise or measure the feasibility, effectiveness and acceptability of each option. When the best option was determined the top management designed a strategy to achieve its goals. Last was the implementation phase.             The design lens that Electrolux is using is the design lens. The design lens promotes the idea that strategy is formulated by top management through careful analysis and planning and implemented down through the organization.   TUI Underlying Forces in the Macro-Environment             The underlying forces in the macro-environment are: <ul style="margin-top: 0in; margin-bottom: 0in" type="circle"> <li class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; line-height: 200%"> Competition – the competitive rivalry the exists between various businesses operating within the industry market place</li> <li class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; line-height: 200%">New Entrants – the ease of entry for new firm into the market</li> <li class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; line-height: 200%"> Substitute Products – products or services that are produced through a different means or technology</li> <li class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; line-height: 200%">Suppliers – relationship between businesses in the industry and the suppliers to those businesses</li> <li class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; line-height: 200%"> Customers/Buyers – the relationship between businesses in the industry and the customers of the businesses </li> </ul>   Porter’s 5 Forces Analysis Threat of New Entrants (Medium)             The tourism and travel industry is considered as one of the fastest growing industries in the world. As more and more people travel and as more and more countries are developing their tourist destinations, more and more travel agencies and similar businesses will surface. Bargaining Power of Buyers (High)             The number of competing firms, increases competition thereby forcing firms to comply with the needs, wants and demands of the consumers. Firms are competing to attract consumers. Bargaining Power of Suppliers (Low)             TIU’s main offering is packaged tours with fixed prices. The arrangements made by TIU with its partners/suppliers are bound by contract and cannot be changed easily. Because of the company’s size and market share it is able to impose on its suppliers. Threat of Substitutes (High)             Although world tourism is growing, Europe compared to other continents experience lesser growth. Other continents offer diverse attractions posing as threats to Europe. Competitive Rivalry (High)             Competition in the travel and tours is very stiff. TUI competes head to head with other European firms Thomas Cook, MyTravel Group, ReweTouristik and First Choice Holidays. There are also other small firms that TUI competes with.             Impact of Five Forces on TUI             The five forces will impact the decision-making and the formulation of strategies of the company. Competition – the strength of competition will influence how the company will compete and how the company will develop products and services that will give them competitive advantaged over their rivals. New Entrants – the ease and the mode of entry of new entrants are examined in order for the company to prepare itself for new firms. New entrants most of the time offer innovative ideas and products that must be monitored. The lesser new entrants that will enter the industry, the lesser the competition. Substitute Products – If there are many options for the consumers, and if these other options are better than what TUI offers, the company will find it hard to attract customers. Suppliers – the relationship between TUI and its suppliers is very essential because the suppliers provide support to the company’s operation Customers – the higher the purchasing power of the buyer, the biggest probability that they will travel. The company needs to examine the trends and the shifts in the customers’ attitudes, needs and demands.

European Brewing Industries

European Brewing The case centers on the changes in the macro-environment of the European Brewing Industry and how these chan...