Abstract
A thorough and critical look at the usability of the website, "Futureshop.ca" which sells electronic equipment. The paper is divided into the following sections: description of business, description of website,
description of target market, analysis of site, privacy policy, security policy, links provided, order process, and
payment process.

Tags:analysis, website

Abstract
The following paper gives an analysis of adidas supply chain management and discusses what Adidas' current position is in terms of the supply chain . The writer further examines what actions Addidas are taking to deal with the suppliers and buyers. Finally this paper investigates the relevant globalized drivers such as: market drivers; cost drivers; competitive drivers and government drivers and integrates all of these products into three specific consumer-group targeted divisions: FOREVER SPORT, ORIGINAL and EQUIPMENT.

Introduction
Overview of the footwear industry
Introduction
German market

Company information
General information
Strategic Business Unit (SBU)

Strategy
Brand Strategy

Global Market
"Street Ball" and Common customer needs
World Cup "Multinational company" battlefield
"Feel the Breeze"

Cost Management Manufacturing Strategies
Technologic innovation

Government Forces
Political Risks
Say NO to Indian Leather

Global Competitors
Nike
Global Challenges

From the Paper
"Adidas have become successful because of the brand strategy they are using, also the focus on the quality of the products, which they produce. adidas feels that it can gain an advantage over competitors by making a product that which is extremely technologically advanced. While many companies in the shoe industry try to gain an advantage-using price such as Nike and Reebok, however, that the quality of their footwear make customers return. For the future, adidas look to expand the manufacturing to satisfy the large the demand for its products. The desire to increase its share in the market requires it must lower the cost of producing the products making the company more efficient.Furthermore, adidas must diversify to maintain high-level of trade and strength in order to have a bright future in the athletic footwear market. The strength of this market but will have to improve their products to retain the strong demand for their products."

Tags:advertisement, management, nike, reebok, strategy, modernising, restructuring, international, competition, technologies, quality, products, value.

Abstract
This paper analyzes the concept of disruptive innovation, also known as disruptive technology and disruptive change. Using Ron Adner's definition from his article titled "When Are Technologies Disruptive? A Demand-Based View of The Emergence of Competition" as a guide, it attempts to investigate the dynamics of disruptive innovation in the marketplace. It looks at some of key characteristics and attributes inherent in any disruptive innovation and outlines some useful strategies companies can use to protect themselves through identifying, assessing and even creating disruptive innovation. It concludes with a discussion concerning some of the major hurdles companies undergo when contending with such an event in their market space.

Outline
Introduction and Objective
The Dynamics of Disruptive Innovations
Sustaining vs. Disruptive
How to Identify and Assess Disruptive Innovation
How to Respond to Disruptive Innovation
Five Responses to Disruptive Innovation
Major Hurdles
How to Create Disruptive Innovation
Strategy #1 - Creating a New Market as a Base for Disruption
Strategy #2 - Disrupting the Business Model From the Low End
Conclusion

From the Paper
"Another common hurdle in the face of disruption comes to light once a company has decided to embrace the innovation while continuing to operate the current business. Since, a disruptive innovation creates the need for such a different business model, and usually a different product, there is no question that complications arise when a company tries to incorporate the new business within the current model. The issues are numerous and range from funding, human resources, leadership, and cost structures just to name a few. To minimize these risks and hurdles studies suggest that the new business functions be carried out as an independent entity, linking back to the parent only when necessary or to take advantage of clearly beneficial synergies."

Tags:competition, consumption, management, technology

Abstract
This paper explores the guiding principles related to employees, product line modification and customer relations that have become Harley-Davidson's foundation for organizational growth and prosperity. The paper shows how the new CEO revamped the company's product quality, instituted a flattened organizational team approach and gained customer loyalty that has set Harley-Davidson strategically and solidly apart from competitors. The paper concludes that the successes over the past two decades have established this company as a global icon.

Outline:
Paving the Road to Change
A Team Approach
Productivity and Global Growth
Building Brand Community
The Future
Conclusion

From the Paper
"To fully comprehend the challenges faced by organizations in changing times, the volatility of the marketplace, and the unforgiving drive of global competition, one needs to look no further than the experience, vision, and enterprising capabilities of Harley-Davidson Motor Company. Amidst a devastating product decline, a deteriorating reputation, and subsequent financial collapse, the survival of this Century-old organization hinged on its capacity to completely re-invent itself. By methodically embracing new high performance practices, Harley-Davidson not only completely re-invented its manufacturing and production practices; it established guiding principles that empowered employees and cultivated a lasting and loyal brand community that will no doubt sustain Harley-Davidson well into the future (Young, & Murrell, 1998)."

Tags:employees, turnover, attitude, brand, loyalty, product, line

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
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