Abstract
Napster is a program allowing users to directly transfer music files without the aid of a centralized file server. Full-length songs may be exchanged in mere minutes through the program, and neither the artists nor the record companies are compensated for their work. The daunting prospect of consumers freely downloading complete libraries of music propelled the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) to successfully sue Napster for trafficking in piracy. This paper analyzes the arguments made by both sides, investigates the virtues of the verdict, and discusses other court outcomes that would have been more beneficial to all parties involved. In addition, lawsuits of other file-sharing applications are discussed, including the likely outlook of Internet peer-to-peer sharing for the future.

From the Paper
"The advent of the Internet has enabled users to promptly and effortlessly share information between one another as never before. While the vast majority of individuals embrace this new technology as a blessing, the capacity to impart so much data has produced a crisis regarding copyright infringement. Napster is a program allowing users to directly transfer music files without the aid of a centralized file server. Individuals are able to gain access to an immense library of copyrighted music, thus rattling the record industry.1 Full-length songs may be exchanged in mere minutes through the program, and neither the artists nor the record companies are compensated for their work. The daunting prospect of consumers freely downloading complete libraries of music propelled the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) to successfully sue Napster for trafficking in piracy. The following will analyze the arguments made by both sides, investigate the virtues of the verdict, and discuss other court outcomes that would have been more beneficial to all parties involved. One such result would incorporate monthly fees and bonus features into the software, which would appease the RIAA's concerns and also allows Napster to continue its operations. In addition, the lawsuits recently launched against Morpheus, Kazaa, Grokster, and My.Mp3.com are predicted to result in the continuance of their operations, given that illegitimate files are removed from their respective systems."

Tags:application, artist, audio, company, copyright, download, files, freenet, gnutella, industry, infringe, internet, kazaa, law, lawsuit, legal, midi, morpheus

Abstract
The author of this paper has divided it into two parts to gain a better understanding of the Japanese wine market. The contemporary aspect of the general Japanese market has been presented within the first part. It comprises the domestic production trends, the importer trends, a consumption analysis and the legislative laws which influence the wine market. The second part of this article looks at the vehicle to enter and the distribution channels of this product. It discusses how wine be sold successfully and how it competes with the local wine industry. It also discusses importation tips for importers.

From the Paper
"It is often said that Japan is one of the most difficult markets for a foreign company to penetrate. The lack of understanding of Japanese business culture and complexity of the market are seen as barriers to entry. Before we make clear why we choose wine to get in the Japanese market, we need to know what is the environment within and how we use the strategy to enter this market."

Tags:asia, direct, fdi, france, french, italian, italy

Abstract
This paper gives a thorough definition of sexual harassment in general and specifically in the workplace. It provides suggestions that companies may undertake in order to prevent the phenomenon - this includes equal work opportunities, awareness workshops and suitable disciplinary action against an employee accused of sexual harassment. The paper describes the difference between physical and non-physical contact.

From the Paper
"There is no universally accepted definition for sexual harassment. But in general, it is defined as any objectionable emphasis on the sex of an individual and is a type of discrimination. In the workplace, the characteristics that define this type of harassment can be found in the British Columbia Human Rights Code. There is however, many ways that sexual harassment can be avoided. If it does happen to occur, there are also different methods of dealing with the problem. Everyone in the workplace should be informed of what constitutes sexual harassment and what steps can be taken to eliminate it. "

Tags:physical, contact, human, rights, employee, awareness, discipline

Abstract
The paper describes the case of NorthEastern Mutual Life (NML), a business that was confronted with the sharp decrease in net income, and faced with an age-old question familiar to most companies: Should it downsize its staff in order to be more financially sound? The paper asserts that NML is representative of this trend, as companies are constantly dealing with the undesirable option of downsizing as a means of survival in a competitive market. The paper explains that this case is particularly fascinating because of the ethically controversial nature of NML's approach towards its employees (the potential firing of its staff) and its potential decision to not adhere to the legal framework (the filing of the partial wind-up to the Alberta Pension Commission). The paper concludes that whether NML wants to admit it or not, its financial success ultimately depends on being socially responsible to its clients, because its reputation was largely built on this premise.

Outline:
Introduction
Ethical Issues
Stakeholders
Alternatives
Choice of Alternative
Solutions
Conclusion

From the Paper
"There could be a number of solutions for NML to turn to in order to increase their ROE, but the more realistic could include: salary cuts for the CEOs/CFOs etc, freezing of common share disbursement or sell shares of their subsidiary companies. The CEO salary cuts would be self-explanatory, but alone would possibly be not enough to organize an increase in ROE. If NML froze the selling of common shares they could also start buying back some of their shares through a stock repurchase, which would decrease the equity of the company and in turn increase ROE. NML could also attempt to cut costs through other expenses within the company. Selling their subsidiary shares would allow NML to buyback more of their own shares. Something could be done in terms of paying out dividends or selling off assets (in return, decrease equity), but in the case of dividends, the article states that any effect on dividends would affect the amount of revenue generated through sales ("a lower yield rate would directly affect sales")."

Tags:layoff, stockholder, value, job, loss, downsizing

Abstract
The paper applies the three social theories of structural functionalism, conflict theory and symbolic interactionism to Wal-Mart. The paper shows how Wal-Mart, as the leading hegemonic force in the retail industry, has made a large social impact.

From the Paper
"One theoretic approach called Functionalism proposes that society is "a stable ordered system of interrelated parts and each structure has a function to contribute to the stability of the whole." (Ferris, Stein, 2008, p. 42) One of Walmart's functions for society is to provide a wide range of food, goods and services to the broadest demographic possible at an affordable price in relation to local competition. This helps to maintain a vital commercial economy without a class struggle between what Marx said as the "haves and the have-nots" (Ferris, Stein, 2008, p. 39). As an observation, on the shelving displays at a local Walmart, there were "we price match" signage, "roll-back" and "was and now" signage throughout the store."

Tags:structural, functionalism, conflict, theory, symbolic, interactionism

Abstract
The following paper offers an overview of the impacts of globalization on developing countries, the arguments made against globalization, as well as corresponding rebuttals. Also identified are methods by which countries can reap the rewards of this process, while remaining realistic about its potential and its risks.

From the Paper
"Globalization offers extensive opportunities for worldwide development, but this process is not progressing evenly. The richest 225 people in the world have a combined wealth equal to the annual income of the poorest 47% of the world s individuals. (Crafts 2) Countries that have been able to integrate with other nations are seeing faster growth and reduced poverty. However, many nations have not been so fortunate, especially in developing areas. One in four individuals across the world lives in abject poverty, without access to adequate food, clean water, sanitation, essential healthcare or basic education services. This is both the principal moral issue facing the world as well as the utmost menace to the future security and stability of the planet. Many of today s problems, such as war and conflict, mass migration, and environmental degradation are rooted in poverty and inequality."

Tags:access, adequate, annual, areas, basic, beneficial, capital, causes, circulation, clean, competition, complex, conflict, countries, country, critics, degradation, develop, developed, developing, development, direct, earth, economic, education, employment, environmental, equal, essen

Abstract
This paper examines how, while many previously successful airlines are challenged with labour issues, unsustainable cost structures and complex pricing structures, WestJet succeeds by filling the gaps that the industry has left open through operational and strategic deficiencies. WestJet is perceived as an "engine of the significant evolution in the airline industry". It looks at how in 2003, WestJet was named Canada's second most respected company, ranking first in high quality product and customer service and second in HR management and top of mind categories. It also examines how standardized flights, low prices, humorous promotions and web-based ticketing are the most visible components of WestJet's marketing strategy and how the underlying key success factor stems from the organization's low-cost strategic thrust and the eight unique business strategy components that support it. This paper details an analysis of the airline industry, the components that form WestJet's competitive advantage, the future of WestJet and the strategic recommendations to sustain the organization's growth. Included is Porter's Five Forces Model, a competitive analysis of the airline industry and relevant article studies.

Outline
1.0 Industry Analysis: General Overview
2.0 Competitive Environment: Facing Industry Challenges
3.0 WestJet's Marketing Strategy: Achieving a Unique Position
4.0 Low-Cost: WestJet's Strategic Thrust
4.1 "No Frills" Product/Service
4.2 Single Aircraft Type
4.3 High Aircraft Utilization
4.4 Simplified Route Structure
4.5 Ticket-less Distribution
4.6 Intelligent Technological Systems
4.7 Humorous Promotional Tactics
4.8 Company Culture: Tying it all Together
5.0 The Future of WestJet: More Destinations, More Growth
6.0 Strategic Recommendations: Customers, Competitors and Growth
6.1 Customers
6.2 Competitors
6.3 Growth
Exhibit 1 - Porter's Five Forces Model Airline Industry
Exhibit 2 - Competitor Analysis
Exhibit 3 - Strategy ComponentsExhibit 4: Relevant Article Studies

From the Paper
"In 1987 the government deregulated the Canadian airline industry, allowing airlines to establish fares and conditions without any intervention and dramatically changing the industry dynamics. It is with this change that the "low-cost" business model fully came to life. Though the subsequent merger of Air Canada (AC) with Canadian Airlines dominated the market for a short time (with AC gaining 80% control over the market), the airlines control over the Canadian skies has not lasted long. With the costs of running a traditional airline escalating, a new strategic thrust has been adopted by both current and new carriers in the market who are now taking advantage of the increased demand for a low-cost no-frills product. Though WestJet is currently dominating the no-frills Canadian market, with a 55% market share for scheduled domestic flights, they have inspired others to adopt the "low-cost" business model."

Tags:airlines, airplanes, porter, prices, promotion, strategic, strategy, structure, success, ticketing

Abstract
This study was undertaken with a purpose of analyzing and making recommendations based on the analysis of situation and strategy identified within the mountain bicycle industry. In particular, close attention is paid to Cannondale Corporation, the leading manufacturer and marketer of high-performance aluminum bicycles and its immediate rivals. Assessment of the nature and strength of competitive forces in the mountain bike industry is based on the five factors analysis and allow to identify key success factors that are a must for survival and profitability of any company that operates in the mountain bicycle industry. A graphical representation of current rivals allows to judge strength of the competition in the industry and influence the choice of alternatives and eventual recommendations for Cannondale corporation.

From the Paper
"The global bicycle industry, including bicycles, parts and accessories, is estimated to have total retail sales in excess of $20 billion. The bicycle-manufacturing segment of the industry produces approximately 100 million units per annum. The global market for bikes is reported to be dominated by just a few big players, many of whom seem to bounce from owner to owner, and from cash crisis to cash crisis, on a distractingly regular basis. (bikebiz.com). Even though people seem to be "saturated" with bicycles and the mountain bike boom is proclaimed to be over (bikebiz.com), comments of the cyclist community allow to conclude that the industry's and segment's decline is not likely. It was also noted that the worldwide cycling industry is waiting for the "next big thing" in cycling which will likely shift position of major players in the industry if they can't keep up with the trend."

Tags:analysis, bicycle, cannondale, corporation, driving, factors, forces, group, industry, key, map, market, mountain, penetration, strategic, strategy, success

Abstract
This paper explains that, because consumers are bombarded each day by thousands of messages, the challenge for advertisers is not only to get their advertisements noticed but also to have consumers remember them. The author points out that, through global market research, Dove was able to identify an emotional issue amongst its target market that, surprisingly, was very consistent both globally and culturally. The paper discusses the way that Dove's Campaign for Real Beauty used an eye-catching and discussion provoking message plus promoted the sharing of ideas among consumers with similar interests. The author stresses that this interactive meeting of real people and the subsequent exchanging of ideas, experiences and support is what made the campaign a true marketing success. The paper includes many color illustration and charts.

Table of Contents:
Executive Summary
Introduction
Integrated Marketing Communications Plan
Objective
Strategy
Target
Proposed Elements
Advertising
Website
Public Relations
Integration of Campaign Elements
Success in Meeting Objectives
Recommendations
Appendix 1: Dove History
Appendix 2: Promotional Mix
Appendix 3: Dove Websites
Appendix 4: Competitor Websites

From the Paper
"Since the inception of the campaign in 2004, Dove has seen double digit growth in a category that typically grows at 2-3% per year . The campaign for real beauty has won countless awards and the campaign website has received more than 2.5 million visitors . The brand has significantly increased its emotional appeal amongst its target market with associations such as "confident", "fun" and "energetic". The high-risk bet that Unilever made paid off; Dove was able to increase market share, create an exceptional marketing campaign, and all while preserving the practical strengths of the brand."

Tags:clutter, emotional bonds, global market research, self-esteem building, integration

Abstract
Massive corporate mergers are becoming increasingly commonplace in 21st-century America. As one huge merger follows another, the benefits for owners and investors are obvious. The paper argues, however, that for our society as a whole, the consequences seem far less beneficial. When too many large corporations merge, competition is reduced, consequently denying consumers a variety of benefits that they are entitled to in our allegedly free market system. The paper argues that the lack of price reduction and innovation are the two most prominent detriments to society in the face of these industry oligarchies. Because one company owns many businesses, the businesses are all run in virtually the same way, leaving very little room for creativity or competition.

From the Paper
"Time Warner's recent merger with Turner broadcasting created the largest media company in the world. It now owns cable distribution, cable channels, production, music publishing, book and magazine publishing, retail interests, film production and theater chains. An example of possible problems: the 1996 controversy over Time Warner's cable provider not wanting to distribute Fox's 24 hour news channel, a competitor with Turner's CNN. Another example is The Disney/Cap Cities/ABC merger, which combines cable, merchandising, theme park, production, film and local media outlets (Barnou, 1999)."

Tags:acquisitions, Alan, Greenspan