Representation Of Male Teachers Within A Primary School

Bell (2010, p.117) states that â€Å"Methods are selected because they will provide the date you require to produce a piece of research† which states the importance of using data collection methods and also having a structured approach to your research. This research project will be small scale, and will gather information about the under representation of male teachers within a primary school, based on current primary school teachers perspectives. It will be carried out to gain further understanding of whether male teachers within primary schools make a difference to children’s learning and behaviour and different issues which face the male teacher. The best method for the investigation will be a qualitative approach as this will be the best†¦show more content†¦2. Do practitioners believe male primary school teachers act as a role model for young boys? Data Collection For this investigation, interviews are going to be used as you can get a range of opinions and interpretations of practioners, and you are able to get reliable and strong answers due to them being face to face. Punch (2009, p.144) metions interviews are a good way to â€Å"understand other persons’ constructions of reality†¦ and to ask them in such a way that they can tell us in their terms and in a depth which addresses the rich contect that is the substance of their meanings.† You are also guaranteed to get a good response rate, as the peole you interview have already been asked. The questions used within the interview will be of a semi-structure basis as Lambert (2012, p.104) states, â€Å"the researcher prepares the main questions beforehand, but during the interview may ask additional questions, or additional topics.† This allows the researcher to gain more understanding of what the participants opinion is, and also ask about topics which the researcher may not be aware of that have been brought up during the interview. The questions will also consist of open and closed questions, as Palgrave (no date) states â€Å"if you ask open questions you could elicit an almost endess number of responses† which allows for the interviewer to gain more information and can keep the interview more casual making the interviewee more

Essay on The Role of Storytelling in The Things They Carried

The impact of the Vietnam War upon the soldiers who fought there was huge. The experience forever changed how they would think and act for the rest of their lives. One of the main reasons for this was there was little to no understanding by the soldiers as to why they were fighting this war. They felt they were killing innocent people, farmers, poor hard working people, women, and children were among their victims. Many of the returning soldiers could not fall back in to their old life styles. First they felt guilt for surviving many of their brothers in arms. Second they were haunted by the atrocities of war. Some soldiers could not go back to the mental state of peacetime. Then there were soldiers Tim O’Brien meant while in†¦show more content†¦Just like millions of other men had died during the war. The men who were in Tim O’Brien’s platoon caught on quickly, if they talked about everything that was going on as if it was only a story, their lives be came a little easier. It became easier even for the men who didn’t practically like the guy who died. In the war it wasn’t about liking one another, that didn’t matter, what mattered to them was expressing their grief without showing it. â€Å"In any case, it’s easy to get sentimental about the dead, and to guard against it† (82). Being able to guard against their grief was something that was hard for many. No matter how many stories they told, there was still a sadness that some of them never could get over. The death of Kiowa was one of those impossible to get over. His death impacted everyone in the platoon. Even though Kiowa was just their guide, they treated him like he was a part of their family of misfits. Every man in the platoon had a story for Kiowa. There was some who told people stories that had Kiowa never dying, there were two however where his death left such a huge impact on them. 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Mos Burger Famous Fast Food Service Business Essay Example For Students

Mos Burger Famous Fast Food Service Business Essay MOS Burger is a celebrated fast-food service in Japan that founded in 1971 by Mr. Satoshi Sakurada. The name of MOS comes from the words Mountain, Ocean, and Sun and each of this word hold its ain significance. Mountain stands for dignified and baronial, Ocean stands for broad and huge while Sun represents vivacious and vitalizing ( MOS Food Singapore , 2012 ) . It is now the 2nd largest fast-food service in Japan after McDonald and MOS mercantile establishments had successfully expanded into abroad markets such as Taiwan, Singapore, China, and so on. The company distinguish itself from rivals by apply cook to order construct ( MOS Burger Website , 2012 ) . The nutrients will be cooked merely after the client s order to guarantee the freshness of the nutrients. MOS s Burgers used rice roll and many other Nipponese sauces like teriyaki sauce that cover up on the Burgers to demo its singularity which emphasized on supplying a healthy, delightful and clean nutrient. Furthermore, the company besides served assortment of alone and original MOS Burger every bit good as utilizing multinational schemes when traveling planetary because they keep standardized the formula and the concern system while localized some of the merchandise to suit with local gustatory sensation and penchant. The corporate slogan To do people happy through nutrient was an of import driver for the company to bring forth fresh, delightful, and quality Burgers to their clients ( MOS Burger Website , 2012 ) . The passionate committedness of the company make it successful possible and to guarantee a uninterrupted endurance in this competitory market. MOS Burger has successfully expanded its concern globally and presently there are 28 mercantile establishments in Singapore, 223outlets in Taiwan, 16 in Hong Kong, 7 in Thailand, 2 in Indonesia, 18 in China, 2 in Korea and 5 in Australia ( MOS Burger Website , 2012 ) . The 1412 mercantile establishments in Japan have about reached the bound for the company to spread out, therefore the company hope to speed up its enlargement with a vision from MOS of Japan to MOS of Asia and eventually MOS of the World . The company planned to spread out their concern and take to come in those markets that they have non enter yet such as Malaysia, Canada, Western states and so on in the hereafter ( MOS Food Singapore , 2012 ) . The entry manner used by MOS Burger to come in the oversea market usually lies on joint venture and franchise system. The company signifier joint venture with the local company as enlargement scheme into abroad market ( MOS Burger Website , 2012 ) . MOS Burger headquarter will delegate a forces to discourse about the development and joint attempt with the local company to guarantee that they can come in into the new market successfully which is wholly differences in footings of the ways of making concern, civilization issues and other issues. MOS Burger besides use franchise as one of the entry manner schemes but it is non easy to obtain a franchise licence from MOS Burger because it needs to carry through the demands set by the company. The possible franchisee demand to cognize good about the company s doctrine that created by Mr. Sakurada because he wish to spouse with those who cares on nature ; and besides a group of people who can lend to the creative activity of felicity both for people and society ( MOS Burger Website , 2012 ) . However, the company will merely seek for the states or regional franchisees. As decision, the company is preferred to utilize a maestro franchise system to come in the new markets alternatively of a normal franchise system. Outline1 2.0 CURRENT EXPANSION STRATEGY2 2.1 Joint Venture3 2.2 Franchising4 2.3 Wholly Owned Outlet5 3.0 Future EXPANSION STRATEGYA6 3.1 Export Canada7 3.2 Partnership Malaya8 3.3 Backward Integration New Zealand9 Decision 2.0 CURRENT EXPANSION STRATEGY MOS Burger starts to spread out their concern since twelvemonth 2001 and the first abroad mercantile establishment is established at Taiwan. MOS Burger has work attentively to spread out their concern and successfully opened 265 shops across seven parts in twelvemonth 2011. ( MOS study , 2011 ) . 2.1 Joint Venture Joint venture is an entry manner by set uping a house that is jointly owned by two or more otherwise independent houses ( Charles and William, 2011 ) . MOS Burger decided to utilize joint venture as one of the entry modes to come in other parts because it able to command over the concern and at the same clip it besides can deeply understand that peculiar part s civilization and life style. In enlargement into each part, MOS Burger merely will set up a joint venture understanding with those companies that emphasizing on good homo relationship even it is able to prosecute net income ( MOS Burger Website, 2012 ) . MOS Burger will carefully in evaluate and choose their joint venture companies in order to guarantee their concern public presentation to accomplish satisfaction consequence. Those companies that qualified to prosecute a joint venture understanding with MOS Burger must traveling through few procedures start from entry of proposal, presentation, interview and they must able to collaborate in the development of MOS Burger in that peculiar part ( MOS Burger Website , 2012 ) . This scheme have been used really successfully in Taiwan by established a joint venture with TECO Group in twelvemonth 1990. After 22 old ages, there are 223 shops was opened in Taiwan ( MOS Burger Website , 2012 ) . The successful enlargement of MOS Burger in Taiwan is because they expert in developing their employees who able to understand the basic doctrine of MOS Burger which is safe and unafraid . ( Kouhei, Hideaki, Tsukasa, A ; Shigeharu, 2010 ) In Indonesia, MOS Burger established a joint venture, Pt Mog Indonesia in twelvemonth 2008 and they start the first mercantile establishment in Plaza Sendayan located at South Jakarta ( Plaza Indonesia Shopping Centre , 2009 ) . Furthermore, MOS FOOD SERVICES Inc. has joint venture with Media Will Holding Co. Ltd, a Korean company that involved in wide spectrum of activities including printing, distribution and eating house direction to open a new South-Korea mercantile establishment in March 2012 ( MOS Report , 2011 ) . Joint venture is of import for MOS Burger and successfully utilizing by MOS to spread out their concern to abroad parts including Taiwan, Hong Kong, Singapore and others. MOS Burger decided utilizing joint venture because they found that the natural barrier in developing the concern chances overseas. Those natural barriers chiefly refer to each part s linguistic communication and civilization differs from each other ( MOS study , 2011 ) . The successful of this scheme can be seen in Taiwan which consist the highest figure of mercantile establishments among the foreign markets. It was so success because the joint venture company TECO group to the full understand their ain part and win in developing the employees who can talk Chinese good and at the same clip they able to understand the basic doctrine that developed by MOS Burger. ( Kouhei, Hideaki, Tsukasa, A ; Shigeharu, 2010 ) However, joint venture still has its ain restrictions which are MOS Burger unable to the full control over their ain concern and struggle may originate when there is different point of positions. ( Charles and William, 2011 ) Hannibal EssayMalaya is the suggested state that to follow this entry scheme. In order to avoid the ferocious competition in fast nutrient industry throughout Malaysia, MOS Burger will be suggested to get down and growth-up their concern at the location along with the South-North Expressway, Malaysia. These locations suggested as it can chiefly aim the travellers who use the freeway and deficiency of fast nutrient mercantile establishments along the main road. MOS Burger can spouse with the gasoline station such as Petronas, Shell or etc. This proposed entry manner is derived from other fast nutrient house such as Pizza Hut and Taco Bell. The Pizza Hut and Taco Bell have created a strong partnership and this is a successful cooperation ( Co-branding illustrations , 2012 ) . Harmonizing to Onakayo ( 2003 ) the pull offing manager of Mobil Oil, Mobil gasoline station has a fast nutrient tribunal called On The Run and it provide household or friends to bask in a comfort and quality topographic point. Besides, Dr. Paa ( 2003 ) said that partnership of fast nutrient with gasoline station provide benefits to clients, portion holders every bit good as the overall economic system of a metropoliss or topographic points. Besides, the pattern of this scheme can benefits those long journey travellers who use the South-North Expressway particularly those from Singapore to North countries need to pump in the gasoline and take a remainder during their journey or half manner. Dr Paa ( 2003 ) besides said that this pattern can commend as a touristry attractive force because it able to function the travellers demand who traveling about and between metropoliss. Once this partnership has been implementing, after the traveller pump in the gasoline they can take a remainder while will bask their repast merely beside the gasoline station merely. This will open-up a new chance for the MOS Burger while besides will pull the traveller for peculiar gasoline station to make full up fuel and remainder. This will make a win-win state of affairs. 3.3 Backward Integration New Zealand Last but non least, MOS Burger can follow backward integrating which is taking the function of their providers. Backward integrating allow MOS Burger to derive some benefits such as to guarantee the beginning of quality of the natural stuff at a competitory monetary values, have full control to the cost and able to provide the spread outing market either locally and abroad ( Poultry Integration, 2012 ) . This pattern has been used by KFC Holding ( KFCH ) as they have invested into different activities that assist their nucleus concern ( Poultry Integration, 2012 ) . To implement backward integrating, MOS Burger s is recommended to to have a breeder farm and hatchery, provender Millss, carnal farm, broiler agriculture or farther processing workss through acquisition. Acquisition refers to geting others concerns through busying certain sum of portion or assets ( Tan, 2009 ) . Acquisition scheme able to supply the benefits of velocity, lessening in hazards, avoids strong competition , overcome entry barrier and others ( Business direction scheme , 2010 ) . Acquisition is deserving to be pattern as it allows the company to entree a wider client base and increase their market portion. The most appropriate state for MOS Burger to follow backward integrating. Dairy Group ( 2012 ) said that New Zealand is the state which holds 35 % of dairy merchandises in the universe market. The dairy industry in New Zealand is celebrated and typical in term of its high quality and flavourful merchandises. Besides, harmonizing to the statistic New Zealand ( 2011 ) , milk pulverization, butter and cheese are the top 1 every bit good as meat and comestible offal as the top two trade goods that exported by New Zealand. In order to keep the strong place in the universe market, New Zealand is really consecutive in protecting their grass-fed heard through bio-security policies and utilizing bio-nutrients to feed the cow ( Investing now , 2012 ) . As decision, the high attempt of New Zealand to guarantee the quality of their dairy merchandises provide a great chance to MOS Burger to implement the backward integrating as they can to the full command the quality of the dairy merchandises that may used as one or more natural stuffs for MOS Burger in the fast nutrient industry. Decision In decision, the survey has identified the entry manners and besides the enlargement schemes that adopted by MOS Burger to come in foreign markets. There are besides some future enlargement schemes proposed for the company which are applicable and implementable as some of the existent instances discussed have shown a good illustration. The entry modes that presently used by the company for enlargements are chiefly fall on franchise and joint venture. The company will take a suited franchisees or spouses that know good and aline to the MOS Burger s doctrine to collaborate. This is to do sureA that the hazards of enter into a different market for making concern can be cut down and to keep a significant control over the quality of the nutrient. Furthermore, taking the right spouses is to guarantee that the committedness of the company can be transmit to those who like to eat MOS s Burger. Besides that, MOS Burger can spread out their concern utilizing other entry manners every bit good in the hereafter to vie with their challengers in foreign markets. Exporting is another option for MOS as it is the easiest manner for the company to come in the new markets and reach the clients easy. The company is suggest to export their merchandise in term of bite signifier by utilizing the well established trade name name MOS Burger to come in the Canadian market which has a high ingestion of bite nutrient. Meanwhile, the partnership entry manner can be adopted every bit good in Malaysia by collaborating with local well known company for illustration Petronas. MOS can spouse with the gasoline station distributer to construct their mercantile establishments beside or near the gasoline station along the South- North Highway in Malaysia to derive benefit while the travellers take their remainder or replenish gasoline at the gasoline station on the main road. Following, the company c an besides utilize the backward integrating scheme to derive some advantages on the cost of stuff and besides to beef up the supply concatenation system of the company which need non depends much on the chief providers any longer. This can be done likely in New Zealand by geting a piece of land and engender their ain domestic fowl that needed for doing the Burgers. Finally, MOS Burger is a company that has a possible to spread out and turn globally. Therefore, it need to be managed by a gifted and committed direction squad and besides keep a good cooperation with his spouses and franchisees.

Strategic Analysis on McDonalds Corporation

Background information The success of organizations that are established in different economic sectors depends on the managers’ effort in formulating and implementing effective strategies. Cox (2002) asserts that successful organizations have a clear vision and sense of direction and easily initiate major organizational changes. Moreover, successful managers have a comprehensive understanding of the prevailing market needs.Advertising We will write a custom report sample on Strategic Analysis on McDonald’s Corporation specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Hansen (2013) emphasizes, â€Å"The managers of successful organizations must have a strategic plan in order to ensure a strong competitive position on the market and therefore achieve desired outcome† (p. 95). This claim highlights the importance of adopting effective strategic management practices. Aim This report involves a strategic analysis on McDonaldâ€℠¢s Corporation. The report provides a brief background information on McDonald’s by assessing its vision, mission, values and its strategic plan. Furthermore, the industry provides a description of the industry within which McDonald’s operates. Company profile McDonald’s Corporation is a public limited company that was established in the United States’ food and restaurant industry in 1940 at San Bernardino, California by Ray Kroc, Richard and Maurice McDonald. The firm has entered the global market by establishing over 35,000 outlets located in 119 countries. The firm’s marketing expertise has increased its customer base to over 68 million customers. McDonald’s specializes in production and marketing of fast-food products such as cheeseburgers, chicken, hamburgers, milkshakes, french-fries, breakfast, salads and desserts (McDonald’s, 2014). By the end of 2013, McDonald’s total human resource base was estimated to be 1,800,000. Moreover, its commitment towards strategic management has played a crucial role in stimulating the level of profitability. Between 2012 and 2013, the firm’s sales revenues increased from US$ 27.6 billion to US$ 28.1 billion. Conversely, its operating income increased from US$ 5.5 billion to US$ 5.6 billion (McDonald’s, 2014). McDonald’s has positioned itself as the market leader in the global fast-food industry. Its success has originated from effective implementation of strategic management practices as illustrated herein.Advertising Looking for report on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Vision statement McDonald’s is focused towards achieving long-term market success by positioning itself as the preferred place for customers to eat. Moreover, the firm’s global operations are guided by a ‘plan to win’ strategy, which emphasizes on creating exceptional custome r experience amongst customers. The strategy is based on the 4P’s of marketing [pricing, promotion, place, and product]. McDonald’s is also committed towards continuous improvement of its environmental and social performance in order to enhance customer experience (McDonald’s, 2014). Mission statement In its quest for market leadership within the fast-food industry, McDonald’s intends to position itself as the best employer in the world. Furthermore, the firm is committed towards achieving operational excellence in all its restaurants established in different countries. Furthermore, the firm’s management team is committed towards sustaining the firm’s level of profitability through effective brand management, exploitation of technology and leveraging on the firm’s strengths (McDonald’s, 2014). Values In addition to the mission statement, McDonald’s operations are guided by a comprehensive set of organizational values. Go renak and Kosir (2012) accentuate, â€Å"organizations can be successful when organizational goals are aligned with organizational values and those are aligned with personal values of people in the same organization† (p. 564). The firm’s values are evaluated below. Customer experience The firm recognizes the importance of customers in its quest for long-term existence. Thus, the firm is committed in creating unique customer experience by offering high quality products, customized services and a unique ambience in its stores. The customer experience value is based on four main goals, which entail cleanliness, quality, service and value. McDonald’s ensures that its employees continuously adhere to these values.Advertising We will write a custom report sample on Strategic Analysis on McDonald’s Corporation specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Commitment towards its people The firm is committed towards creatin g a strong and efficient workforce. Thus, the firm believes that a strong human capital base is paramount in achieving continued success. Consequently, the firm invests a substantial amount of resources in nurturing talent and developing leadership through training. Additionally, the firm considers diversity to be a fundamental source of organizational success. Therefore, the firm fosters establishment of an environment conducive for working in order to drive engagement through teamwork amongst its workforce. Business model The firm has adopted an effective business model that recognizes three main components in its operation, which include suppliers, employees and owners/operators. In its business operations, McDonald’s ensures that the interests of these core groups are taken into consideration. Giving back to the community McDonald’s understands the strong correlation that exists between the firm’s success and the community within which it operates. Therefore , the firm is committed towards pulling its possessions, coverage, and magnitude in helping clients establish superior neighborhoods. The firm supports the community by establishing charitable organizations such as the McDonald House Charities. Business ethics The firm is focused towards adhering to the values of honesty, integrity and fairness in its business operation. These values are based on the philosophy that ‘we are individually accountable and collectively responsible’ (McDonald’s, 2014). Continuous improvement McDonald’s has positioned itself as a learning organization which is committed towards adjusting its operations in order to align with the changing system, customers and employees needs through continuous innovation and evolution. Profitability McDonald’s operates as a public limited company. Thus, the firm’s operations are aimed at maximizing profitability in order to satisfy its shareholders’ wealth maximization objec tive.Advertising Looking for report on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Comparison of mission statement McDonald’s faces intense competition from Burger King Corporation, Yum Brands Incorporation. Burger King is focused towards creating an environment conducive or its employees to work in and to attract and retain a large number of customers. The firm also intended to achieve business excellence by ensuring consistency of its service provision (Campbell, 2008). This mission statement is similar to that of McDonald’s Corporation, which seeks to achieve business excellence and fostering a favorable environment for working. This shows that working environment is one of the key aspects considered by major players in the fast-food industry (Thompson, Peteraf, Gamble, Strickland, 2011). Industry analysis Pressures that originate from internal and external business environments affect McDonald’s operations. The internal forces are within the management team’s capacity to control while the external forces are beyond the management t eam’s ability. Regardless of the source of pressure, organizational leaders have a duty to ensure that the occurrence of such pressure does not adversely influence business operations. However, this duty can only be accomplished if the organizational leaders understand the prevailing environmental issues. Some of the tools that organizational managers can utilize in evaluating the industry dynamics include the PESTLE, Porter’s five forces and the SWOT analysis. PESTLE analysis Political elements Business processes are extensively determined by the guiding principles that are implemented by the administration of the country in which a company operates. Therefore, the degree of political risk varies from one country to another. Thompson et al. (2011) assert that political risk can originate from different sources such as the incumbent government agencies and departments, social unrests, changing economic conditions, and the stakes of government and non-governmental organ izations. McDonald’s has ventured into different countries in an effort to maximize profitability. Thus, the firm’s likelihood of the firm experiencing intense political risk is high. In its European, the United States, and Indian markets, the firm is experiencing pressure from the respective governments concerning health implications that are associated with fast foods. These governments are increasingly being concerned with the high levels of cholesterol in fast foods. Such cholesterol is associated with obesity. In its Indian market, McDonald’s is currently experiencing legal dispute because of its infringement of religious laws on food products. The firm’s operations are also affected by trade restrictions in some countries such as tax rates. Furthermore, the political instability in some regions such as the Middle East and North Africa sections may affect the firm’s quest for growth through market expansion. Economic factors Businesses that op erate in the international fast-food market are exposed to diverse economic factors that are unique to the respective markets. Some of these factors include tax, inflation, and exchange rates. Exchange rate fluctuation may negatively influence the production capacity of firms in the fast-food industry that depend on raw material imports. Additionally, firms in the fast-food industry are also exposed to global economic changes such as economic recession. Such economic changes have adverse effects on the consumer purchasing power, and hence the firm’s ability to maximize its profitability. In 2012, McDonald’s earnings declined to $1.34 billion from $1.41 billion in 2011 (McDonald’s, 2014). To succeed in such environments, businesses must adjust their strategic management practices to align with the economic environment. This goal can be achieved by adjusting marketing strategies such as the pricing tactics. Socio-cultural factors The fast-food industry is undergoi ng remarkable evolution because of the prevailing socio-cultural changes. One of the most notable changes relates to increased consumption of fast-food products because of increase in disposable income and high rate of urbanization. Another major socio-cultural trend relates to change in consumer behavior towards food products. Thompson et al. (2011) are of the view that the development of information communication technology has increased the consumers’ level of product knowledge. Thus, consumers are inclining towards healthy and safe products. This trend has also affected the fast-food sector whereby consumers are seeking healthy food products (Gasparro Jargon, 2012). This trend presents an opportunity for firms in the fast-food industry to invest in new and continuous product improvement. For example, in 2012, McDonald’s announced its intention to venture into the Indian market in 2013. The firm had to do away with its pork and beef products in its menus in order t o adhere to the Muslim and Hindu religious practices, which prohibit the consumption of pork and beef. Gasparro and Jargon (2012) assert that McDonald’s respects cultural diversity in all markets that it has entered by diversifying its product portfolio. Technological factors The 21st century has been characterized by remarkable technological innovations, which are affecting various business aspects. The development of diverse social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, Google Ads, and YouTube has transformed marketing activities. For example, businesses in different economic sectors are adopting online marketing practices in their effort to create sufficient market awareness and/or to increase customer base (Thompson et al., 2011). Additionally, techno-savvy consumers are increasingly adopting diverse web-based technologies such as online purchasing in their consumption processes (Pipes, 2014). Technological innovations have led to the emergence of technologies, which are aimed at cutting the cost of operation, achieving operational efficiency, and providing fast-food customers with a high degree of flexibility in their purchasing process. Examples of such technologies include the inventory management software, which enables organizations to manage their inventories, for example through timely and efficient replenishment of raw materials. Legal factors The modern fast-food industry is experiencing numerous legal issues that are arising from government and non-governmental agencies. For example, fast-food companies are increasingly being compelled to reveal the ingredients of their fast-food products. This issue has been fuelled by the high rate at which health practitioners and nutritionists are associating some diseases such as obesity, kidney diseases, high blood pressure, heart diseases, and diabetes with fast-food consumption (Tanamas, 2013). In an effort to cope with such legal issues, McDonald’s has a policy that requires the revelat ion of the raw materials that are used in producing its fast-food products. Environmental factors Firms have a duty of ensuring that their operations are environmentally sustainable. The high rate of climate change that is being experienced in the 21st century has raised concern amongst governments and non-governmental groups on the role of businesses in protecting the environment in which they operate by adopting effective corporate social responsibility practices. West (2014) asserts that â€Å"Currently, there are no federal laws or regulations targeting fast-food companies in the US; however, they have an obligation to protect the environment† (Para. 1). Some of the practices that are increasingly being advocated include adopting the concepts of reducing, reusing, and recycling of materials. Porter’s five forces The Porter’s five-force model is one of the strategies that organizational managers can adopt in understanding their organization’s competiti ve situation (Hansen, 2013). The analysis below illustrates the competitive situation in the fast-food industry by assessing the threat of entry, degree of rivalry, buyers and suppliers bargaining powers, and threat of substitute products. Source: (Abauwad, 2013) Rivalry; high The fast-food industry is experiencing significant increment in the intensity of competition because of its profitability potential. The industry players are adopting diverse competitive strategies such as pricing, product quality, consistency of service delivery, diversified product portfolio, style, presentation, and store location (Abauwad, 2013). Furthermore, fast-food companies are increasingly developing new products in an effort to satisfy their customers’ tastes and preferences. Threat of entry; low Few large players such as McDonald’s, Taco Bell, and Tyson Food Incorporation dominate the global fast-food industry. The industry players have managed to attain competitiveness through techn ological advancement, economies of scale, and efficient product distribution. Although the cost of entry is relatively low, new entrants cannot compete effectively with large firms. Subsequently, new entrants do not pose a threat to the large firm’s market share. Threat of substitute; high Fast foods are considered discretionary food items and hence can easily be substituted by other meals (Abuawad, 2013). The risk of replacement products amongst firms in the fast-food industry is increased by the high rate at which expediency warehouses such as large retail chains are offering consumers dissimilar foodstuffs within their retail stores. Moreover, the restaurant market is characterized by the emergence of dine-in restaurants, hence minimizing the cost of switching from one product to another. Additionally, consumers have become more knowledgeable on the importance of healthy eating. Abuawad (2013) asserts that the rate at which consumers are inclining towards consuming alterna tive food products that they consider healthier is high. Hence, it has increased the threat of substitute. Supplier bargaining power; moderate Most fast-food companies source their raw materials from the local and international markets. Thus, their relationship with suppliers is an essential element in the fast-food firm’s success. Abuawad (2013) asserts that suppliers have the capacity to influence product prices. On the other hand, the fast-food companies have an opportunity to bargain the offered market price. Additionally, the evident large number of suppliers moderates the supplier bargaining power. Buyer bargaining power; moderate Despite their inability to influence the price of fast-food prices directly, fast-food customers have a significant impact on product pricing. This power has been increased by development in information communication technology, which makes it possible for consumers to exchange ideas and opinions regarding product characteristics through onlin e mediums. Subsequently, fast-food companies have an obligation to manage their brand reputation whilst developing a unique customer experience to make clientele feel satisfied (Abuawad, 2013). SWOT Analysis In addition to the aforementioned aspects, McDonald’s has managed to develop a number of strengths as illustrated by the below SWOT analysis. Strengths Market recognition-McDonald’s is ranked amongst the most recognized food service firms in the world. Strong brand recognition-This strategy increases the likelihood of succeeding in international markets. Cultural diversity-The firm respects cultural diversity in its operation. However, the firm should consider providing customers with healthier fast foods. Financial strength-McDonald’s has established a strong financial capital base and reputation amongst investors. Subsequently, it can establish more upscale restaurant chains. Weaknesses Employee turnover-The high rate of employee turnover may reduce McD onald’s operational efficiency in addition to increasing the cost of operation. McDonald’s ownership-Most of the firms are franchises. Subsequently, the franchisees might not adhere to the franchise contract. Low customer satisfaction-The firm has been characterized by high ratings of customer dissatisfaction. Seasonal sales-The firm’s profitability is affected by seasonal sales. Over-establishment in the US– McDonald’s has established numerous outlets in the US. The firm should consider venturing into new markets. Opportunities New markets-The firm can increase its profitability by venturing into new markets such as the emerging markets (China, Brazil, India, Russia, and the GCC countries). Market reputation-McDonald’s can gain additional market reputation by increasing its commitment towards corporate social responsibility, for example through environmental protection. New product development-The firm can increase its customer base by im proving its menu. This goal can be attained by developing healthier fast foods. Store ambience-The firm should improve its old restaurants in order to create a unique customer experience. Threats Social changes-The firm’s success is threatened by the prevailing social changes with reference to consumption of healthier foods. Contamination risk-The firm’s products are susceptible to various food-borne diseases because they are sourced from different local and international suppliers. Economic changes-Occurrence of economic changes may affect the consumers purchasing power and hence its profit maximization potential. Lawsuits-The firm’s reputation is threatened by lawsuits in some of its markets such as India for lack of observing religious issues. Company strategy McDonald’s Incorporation has adopted internationalization as one of the market expansions strategies. Cox (2002) asserts that internationalization increases the likelihood of achieving profit maximization because a firm is able to tap market potential in the international market in addition to coping with the intensity of competition in the domestic market. To be successful in its internationalization efforts, McDonald’s has adopted the franchising strategy. Cox and Mason (2007) assert, â€Å"Franchising is a proven business concept that many investors are adopting to maximize profitability compared to independent business start-ups† (p.1054). One of the benefits that are associated with franchising is that a firm is able to standardize its operations. For example, in its Indian market, McDonald’s has introduced alternative hamburgers such as chicken meat hamburgers in an effort to adhere to the Hindu’s and Muslim culture, which prohibits the consumption of beef and pork. Consequently, one can deduce that McDonald’s Incorporation has adopted a winning strategy. Strategic objectives and performance targets Currently, the firm has venture d into a number of key international markets such as Germany, Australia, and Japan. However, the firm has experienced a significant reduction in the level of profitability in all its markets. Bagshaw (2014) asserts that the company’s global sales declined by 2.5% in June and July 2014. To restore its market performance, McDonald’s focuses on implementing the following objectives. Improving its value proposition-The firm intends to improve its market reputation and global recognition by improving the quality of its products. This goal will be achieved by integrating healthy items in its menus. Market expansion-The firm intends to attain growth by venturing into new markets through acquisition. Currently, the firm targets to acquire well established firms such as The Noodle Company, Potbelly Corporation, and Chipotle Mexican Grill (Mourdoukoutas, 2014). Leveraging on its capabilities-McDonald’s intends to attain market growth by leveraging on its franchising cap ability and logistics. Furthermore, Mourdoukoutas (2014) asserts, â€Å"The company intends to create two separate units , one that caters for low-calorie cholesterol consumers and another that caters for the local and semi global segments of the world economy† (Para. 7). The above strategic objectives are aligned with the firm’s vision, mission, and values. First, the objective to improve the company’s value proposition by integrating healthier fast food depicts the firm’s commitment towards creating a unique customer experience. This move will increase the chances of the firm appealing the customers’ demand for high quality and healthier food products. Furthermore, this proposition is also aligned with the firm’s commitment to invest in continuous product improvement. On the other hand, the firm’s commitment towards leveraging on its capabilities such as franchising will increase the firm’s profitability. This goal will be a chieved by ensuring consistency in the firm’s product and service delivery processes. Moreover, the firm’s strategic objective to expand into the international market will enable McDonald’s to improve its market performance by increasing its level of profitability. Conclusion The firm’s vision, mission, and values illustrate its commitment towards diverse internal and external stakeholders. McDonald’s vision statement depicts that the firm focuses on achieving market success by fostering unique customer experience, hence developing a high level of customer loyalty. Moreover, the vision statement illustrates the firm’s commitment in adhering to social responsible business operations. On the other hand, the mission statement shows the firm’s commitment in achieving a high level of profitability by creating a favorable environment for employees to work whilst achieving operational excellence, which means that the firm is concerned with e fficient and effective business operations. Similarly, the firm’s value propositions communicate its commitment towards satisfying the internal and external stakeholders, for example by satisfying the investors’ wealth maximization objective. Moreover, it also shows the firm’s commitment towards ethical business operations. Recommendations To achieve long-term success, McDonald’s should take into account the following aspects. The firm’s management team should continuously assess the prevailing market environment to determine the most effective way of adjusting its operations, products, and services. In its internationalization strategy, McDonald’s should consider investing in product adaptation to increase the likelihood of success of its franchise. McDonald’s management team should effectively analyze the international market that it targets to access to understand the prevailing market situations. Reference List Abuawad, M. (2013 ). McDonald’s Corporation. New York, NY: MJ Neeley School of Business. Bagshaw, E. (2014). McDonald’s sales worst in 10 years. Retrieved from http://www.smh.com.au/business/McDonald’s-sales-worst-in-10-years-20140810-102dsw.html Campbell, J. (2008). Burger King the facts about the second largest fast-food  restaurant. Retrieved from http://www.culinaryarts360.com/index.php/burger-king-the-facts-about-the-second-largest-fast-food-restaurant-2-29954/ Cox, J. (2002). Geographical dimensions of business format franchising, unpublished phd thesis. Southampton: University of Southampton. Cox, J., Masson, C. (2007). Standardization versus adaptation; geographical pressures to deviate from franchise formats. The Service Industries Journal, 27(8), 1053-1072. Gasparro, A., Jargon, J. (2012). In India, McDonald’s plans vegetarian outlets. Retrieved from http://online.wsj.com/news/articles/SB10000872396390444301704577631551022511054 Gorenak, M., Kosir, S. (2012) . The importance of organizational values for  organization. Slovenia: International School for Social and Business Studies. Hansen, H. (2013). Food economics; industry and markets. New York: Routledge. McDonald’s. (2014). Corporate information. Retrieved from http://www.McDonald’s.com/us/en/our_story/Corporate_Info.html Mourdoukoutas, P. (2013). McDonald’s; three strategies to reignite sales growth.  Retrieved from http://www.forbes.com/sites/panosmourdoukoutas/2013/11/23/McDonald’s-three-strategies-to-re-ignite-sales-growth/ Pipes, K. (2014). Fast-food franchise industry is rushing to acquire technology tools  that will help it stay well fast. Retrieved from http://www.franchising.com/articles/fast_food_franchise_industry_is_rushing_to_acquire_technology_tools_that_wi.html Tanamas, S. (2013). The Australian diabetes, obesity and lifestyle study. Retrieved from http://apo.org.au/research/australian-diabetes-obesity-and-lifestyle-study Thompson, A., Peteraf, M., Gamble, J., Strickland, A. (2011). Crafting and  executing strategy; the quest for competitive advantage; concepts and cases. New York, NY: Irwin Incorporation. West, L. (2014). Progress is slow on reducing reusing and recycling fast-food waste.  Retrieved from http://environment.about.com/od/recycling/a/fast_food_waste.htm This report on Strategic Analysis on McDonald’s Corporation was written and submitted by user Marc Shelton to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.