Free

Freedom of Speech vs. Censorship Essay Adopted in 1791, the First Amendment, states â€Å"Congress shall make no law abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.† (Pilon) The freedom of speech documented in the First Amendment is not only a constitutional protection but also an inevitable part of democratic government and independence, which are essential values in society. â€Å"Censorship,† according to Justice Oliver Wendell Holmes, â€Å"is an almost irresistible impulse when you know you are right† (Sunstein). That is why the American citizen’s right to free speech should be held as the highest virtue and any censorship of freedom of speech should not be allowed, however, should be respected. Freedom of speech is essential part of democratic government because the only way truth can emerge when there is an open competition of ideas. However, there is a strong support of censorship when people start mentioning extremely offensive opinions. Should the freedom of speech be limited in this case? The answer is â€Å"No†. â€Å"If liberty means anything at all,† writes George Orwell, â€Å"it means the right to tell people what they do not want to hear.† (Cox) If we want to enjoy the freedom fully, the full protection should be given to the freedom of speech; there are no compromises about it. Freedom of speech protected by the First Amendment is not just a right, which can be declared or abolished. According to the â€Å"liberty theory,† proposed by some lega l scholars, freedom of speech is an essential part of the liberty of every person who pursues an individual self-determination and self-realization (Cox). Thus, freedom of speech is also a global right one that permits freedom of personal development and self-expression. Another theoretical ground to support the freedom of speech is called â€Å"tolerance theory.† It holds that the ability to teach and promote tolerance is one of the most important assets of freedom of speech (Cox). From this perspective, freedom of speech itself excludes any type of intolerance, which sometimes appears in a threatening form (religious intolerance, racial intolerance). The â€Å"tolerance theory† implies self-restraint, which is the only appropriate response to any ideas, even those that we may personally may dislike or hate. The â€Å"tolerance theory† provides a broader context for exercising tolerance in a conflict-ridden democratic society. Furthermore, in legal practice there are certain restrictions on freedom of speech imposed by the Supreme Court. They define a few categories of speech, which are considered not to be fully protected by the First Amendment. These categories include defamation, advocacy of imminent illegal conduct, obscenity and, fraudulent misrepresentation (Farber). However, if the speech does not fall within one of these categories, there are no grounds for the government to argue that freedom of speech should be restricted because of its harmful content. One of the common bases for partial censorship is proof that the freedom of speech causes imminent illegal action. The Supreme Court has already drawn a careful line between general abstract theories and political dissent on one hand and particular illegal acts incitement on the other. This line is drawn by definition of â€Å"clear and present danger† test (Farber). The government cannot sue the speaker on the basis of its tendency or possibly illegal conduct incitement. Before any speech is punished on the grounds of incitement, there is an obligatory three-part criterion that should be met. First, the speech must directly incite lawless action. Second, the context of speech must imply imminent breaking of the law, rather than call for illegal conduct at some indefinite future time. At last, there should be a strong intention to produce such conduct (Farber). Such â€Å"clear and present danger† test determines the level of probability of threat imposed by the speech in question. However, the evil, which the government tries to prevent by outlawing the advocacy, does not outweigh the harm of outlawing the free speech. Only when the imposed danger becomes evident, the freedom of speech may be questioned. We must be aware that the price for preventing several cases of the openly declared illegal conduct may be paid by restriction of one of the most essential rights that constitute freedom for the entire nation. For the wellbeing and public safety, the Supreme Court has imposed certain regulations on the freedom of speech not because of its content, but because of the time, place and, manner the speech is being expressed (Farber). The court pointed out in Snyder v. Phelps (2011) that one way to ascertain whether a restriction is content-based versus content-neutral is to consider if the speaker had deliver a different message under exactly the same circumstances (Supreme Court of the United States). However, these rules do not limit the actual freedom of speech and are not even upheld, if there is no public need for this. However, concerning the content-neutral regulation, it raises many controversial issues. The content-neutral regulation requires a very careful distinction and therefore may sometimes be misinterpreted. There is a raising concern that such regulation may weaken people’s right to participate, especially if the government puts too many restrictions on how the ideas should be voiced. Thus, by analyzing the current issues concerning the First Amendment right to free speech in the United States, I wanted to show the perspective of outlawing this right, and the negative aspects t hat such outlawing may involve. Freedom of speech has served a crucial role for the right to dissent and for the entire principle of democracy in our society. This law was developed during the course of American history and only after numerous struggles it was achieved. The evolution of this law is still in progress however, the limitation of the basic right to free speech may as well limit our freedom and democracy, therefore should be respected and protected. Works Cited Cox, A. A Freedom of Expression. Cambridge: Harvard University, 1981. Print. The Declaration fo Independence and the Consitituion fo the United States. The Declaration fo Independence and the Consitituion fo the United States. By Roger Pilon. N.p.: Cato Institute, 2000. 1-10. Print. Farber, D. The First Amendment. New York: Foundation Press, 1998. Print. Sunstein, C. Democracy and the Prolem of Free Speech. New York: Free Press, 1993. Print. United States v. Kozminski 487 U.S. 931 (1988). U.S. Supreme Court, n.d. Web. 1 Apr. 2013. http://supreme.justia.com/cases/federal/us/487/931/. United States. Supreme Court. Supreme Court of the United States of America. Supreme Court of the United States of America, Oct. 2010. Web. 1 May 2013. http://www.supremecourt.gov/opinions/10pdf/09-751.pdf.

China beer market competetor analysis

China beer market competetor analysis CHINA BEER MARKET COMPETETOR ANALYSIS Quick Over view: Aire Breweries plc. Is UK based beer marketing company that been selling premium beers. The company is enjoying fairly good market share. The beer market has become saturated due to intensive competition and in-line pricing strategies. The Aire Breweries plc. as a part of logical extension decided to enter Chinese market, where beer market is largest in the world next to USA. The Strategic Triangle- 3Cs: The strategic triangle proposed by Kenichi Ohmae states that any company success in long run pivots around 3factors: Corporation, Customers Competition. In construction of Business strategy above factors must be examined thoroughly to arrive at marketing plan. The Corporation: Aira Brewries is beer selling company selling beer brands like Hostenbech- European style lager beer, San Bernanardo Cameolet- British style dark bitter beer, Ark royal British style dark bitter beer, pot of gold- Irish style dark stout beer with premium price. The brands are promoted through super markets, fashionable markets, Up market city centre bars. The copany has high cost structure and has efficiency as its strength. The Customer: The proposed target market China is undoubtedly a large consumer market in the world and beer in particular. The vast spread of consumers with varied languages make MNCs experience the difficulty of convincing Chinese consumers. The competitors: In china due to liberalisation policy many MNCs are trying to make a mark in China market. The competition in china Beer markets is very intensive. China market expects to come up with cost effective products where local sellers have an edge over MNCs. San Miguel is one of top three selling brands in china and largest selling brand in china. Sabmiller is the world second largest selling has 47 breweries and operating in 13 provinces of China. Bud Light beer has bottom line structure. Various players include CBR Brewing company inc. china Food beverage company, China resource enterprise ltd., Fomento Economico Mexicano SA de CV, Scottish new castle, Fujian Yanjing Huiquan Brewing group Kirin Brewery Company Ltd., etc. Quick glance at China Economy: China has recorded 11.9% GDP growth rate accounts for $ US 3565 billion (USD 1 = RMB7) is a clear indication that Chinese have got fair standards of living and spending power of consumer has been remarkable Economic Indicators 2007 2006 GDP (RMB trillion) 24.7 21.1 Per capita GDP (RMB) 2,200 16.084 Per capita disposable income of urban households 13,786 11,759 Per capita Net income for rural households 4,140 3,587 Table: 1 Source: National Bureau of Statistics Market Opportunities threats in China: Due to vast population China will offers great opportunities for potential marketers, provided the market is analyzed and a feasible program is developed. The barriers usually for any MNCs are inadequate market data, inappropriate entry strategy. Poor access to supply chain, vast spread of geographical market, cultural differences etc. It is advocated to distinguish the gap between the developed and less developed markets. Uniform marketing strategy is not suitable in view of large market. The beer market is not similar every where; it is more of localized driven by local tastes and preferences. It could be defined as pool of regional markets. Domestic players will play dominant role and take maximum market share. But their presence is limited to maximum of 2% of national market. Majority of market share i.e. 45% is controlled by 4 players. Beer Market Scenario in China: The high spending level of consumers in China has lead to growth of Beer market in manifolds and ignited by Foreign Direct investment. China has now became largest national beer market in the world crossing USA. There were 4 companies in china and has grown to 60 by 2007. McKinsey Global institute has thrown light on newly emerging segment in the recent past- Urban Middle class who has been earning RMB 100000 ($12000) a year became a hot button to every beer marketer. Table 2 Year Million Liters Annual Growth (%) 2007 32035,83 10.04 2008 33459.42 4.44 2009 34 904.69 4.32 2010 36,371.42 4.20 2011 37.860.59 4.09 Source: http://www.globalbusinessinsights.com/content/rbaa0012m.pdf Growth of China Population Trends: It is a known fact that china is most populated country with 1321 millions as per 31 December 2007 comprise of 51% male 49 percent female. The population size makes china a land of opportunities driven by advanced technology usage while producing. Understanding Chinese Market Risk Element: Small Medium enterprise like Aire breweries may need to mobilize recourses to tap the potential of Chinese beer market. In this regard they have to analyse their strengths weaknesses. Most of MNCs fail because of the poor distribution system and failure to identify a piggy back partner. More over the law in china has been very stringent. Unless the marketer study the cultural aspects thoroughly it may lead to chaotic situation. Cultural aspects of China Market: Chinese consumers are very patriotic and do practice their culture meticulously. Due to strong socialistic approach they support local products. Foreign players may suffer from non-acceptance of their offering due to invisible influences of culture which cannot be demonstrated. Law at China: The china legal system is very complicated and frustrating to MNCs. The familiarity to china culture will facilitate the understanding of law. It is always better to have a local partner to promote the business and as a part of political risk (i.e. confiscation of assets or blockage of funds) handling mechanism Geographical Segmentation: It is wise to adapt Regio-centric approach or Multi Domestic approach to reach vast china market. Here subsidiary in each province of china has to devise their plan to suit the need Preferences of that region. This approach demand to have varied marketing mix with coordinated efforts of other territories. Demographic Profile of Consumers: China population (1341 millions male female ratio 51:49) has been multi-religious ranging from Buddhism, Taoism, Catholics, Protestantism, and Islam, interestingly deal business according to their religions and Socio-cultural values. Since ages Chinese companies have been transferring ancestral values to present generation which establish relationships refer to term â€Å"guan xi†. Relations drive the businesses to offer extent of product mix. Distribution of Population income wise: Table 3 Population (million) Gross National Income (Billion) Low Income 2512 10.20 Middle Income 2667 49.22 High Income 955 49.22 Source: US census Bureau, World Bank group, McKinsey analysis Marketing Mix: Product: China has been largest beer market but with different tastes across the nation. 500 ml and 750 ml are most preferred quantities served in bottles cans. The per capita consumption 18 ltrs has not been impressive when compared with USA (84 ltrs) UK (74 ltrs) per capita consumption. Aire Breweries need to develop localized tastes along with their premium brands. The test marketing will help company to know the preferences. Price: The beer in china market is sold at pretty cheap. 750 ml beer costs 25 cents. Locally made MNC brands Carlsberg and Pabst blue are also sold at fairly cheaper rates. Aire breweries plc., has to adapt bottom line pricing or inline pricing to get acces in the market Promotion: As many languages are used across china, mandarin is widely used language, it is a difficult task to develop a theme while advertising. Few MNCs failed to translate the essence of ad copy lead to waste. It may be advocated to be cautious to understand cultural dimensions while developing ad copy to rural folks Place (Distribution): The mechanism of distribution of beer products in China takes place via Distributors appointed by Manufacturers in turn retailer super markets. Distributor is focal point from which whole-salers supply the goods. Each distributor holds rights to sell one brands. Wholesalers will buy different brands from different distributors and dispense. Foreign players suffer from effective reach. Joint venture structure of distribution will help to overcome problems. Piggyback model of distribution will strengthen Distributor- retailer model. Multi channel mode of distribution will serve the purpose. Marketing Planning: International marketer need to deal with at least two level of uncontrollable uncertainties. The success of marketing program depends on optimal adjustment to business climate in which you are operating. After analyzing opportunities and select the province of china next step is to define the target market. Chinese are got enough disposable income and have been accepting beer as food beverage. Target market will give a direction to develop marketing mix and total number of potential consumers approximately. Aire Breweries should have good local partner to implement marketing strategy and extend support to reach target market. The price and promotion campaign need to be devised according to local practices. Entry Strategy: Once the market profiling is done, it is always good to enter in to the Chinese market through a joint venture. For many years, the Aire Valley Breweries plc, a UK company focused its marketing effort on premium-priced products. As beer market is growing at good rate, it is high time to get in to China market with constructive marketing strategy. A Joint-venture with local partner will offer ease in operations procurement of recourses, recruitment and handling beaurocratic issues. The local partner knowledge on competition, language, culture and business systems can influence the government policy. Conclusion: China is very potential because of vast population but high levels of risk has been demonstrated.Aire breweries may take assistance of local marketing research organisation to seek first hand information for political socio-cultural aspects. References: Kenichi Ohmae, (1990), The Next global stage available at http: //en.wikipedia.org/wiki/3c%27s_model Jeffrey Hays (2008) wine beer in China available at http://www.factsanddetails.com/china.php?itemid=142catid News Report (Dec 2006) Beer market in china http://www.globalbusinessinsights.com/content/rbaa0012m.pdf National Bureau of statistics of China, available at http://www.chinaknowledge.com/market/book- Starmas international Business consultants (2009) China trends available at http://www.starmass.com/china_review/economy/_overview/china_macroeconomic.htm China Knowledge Bureau report, (2008) available at http://www.chinaknowledge.com/market/book-china consumer.aspx?subchap=1content=3 Chinese Beer Industry Report, (October 2007) Koncept Analytics Publishers, UK available at http://www.reportbuyer.com.food_drink/alcoholic_drinks/beer/chinese_beer_industry Beer Market in china (2008), A Market analysis of Aroq Ltd. Published at UK available at http://www.justdrinks.com/store/product.aspx?id=68150 Jeffrey Hays (2008) wine beer in China available at http://www.factsanddetails.com/china.php?itemid=142catid 10. Richard Benson-Armer, Joshua Leibowitz, And Deepak Ramachandran (1999) Global Beer: Whats On Tap? available at https://www.mckinseyquarterly.com/ghost.aspx?ID=/Global_beer_Whats_on_Tap_321 News Report, (December 2006 ) Beer market in China http://www.globalbusinessinsights.com/content/rbaa0012m.pdf Don Lee, (29, April 2009), China relaxes business regulations, Los Angeles Times, available at http://articles.latimes.com/2009/apr/29/business/fi-chinaregs29 Charles W. L Hill, 2005, 5th Ed, International Business, Tata McGraw-Hill, New Delhi, India p- 166 Philip R Cateora, John L Graham (2008) 3ed, International Marketing, Tata McGraw-Hill, New Delhi, India p26 InfoPacific Development Inc. (2009), Kompass, China http://www.chinatoday.com/general/a.htm Prof. Jiangang (Jim) Dai Prof. Chen Zhou (March 2008), Beer Distribution In China, Georgia Institute of Technology, available at http://www.scl.gatech.edu/research/china/beerreport2008.pdf China Business Intelligence analysis available at http://chinabizintel.com/industry-updates/several-major-problems-in-chinas-beer-market.html

The Malaysian Consumer Price Index Economics Essay

The Malaysian Consumer Price Index Economics Essay The consumer price index (CPI) is measurement of the percentage change through time in the cost of purchasing a constant group of goods and also services and it also representing an average pattern or index from the purchases made by the citizen in one specific period of time. The Index is started since 1967 = 100 (which is the based year) was the index for the Peninsular Malaysia while the Index for the year 1980 is referring to Malaysia which means that the whole Malaysia. All the series of data of the CPI are based on internationally accepted statistical procedure. Each of this series is follow the recommended classification contained in the United Nations System of National Account (SNA), 1968 that must be followed by every country in measuring CPI. The most commonly methods or formula that been use to analyze and collect the data of CPI is Laspeyres, which is based on the item that are locally consumed reflecting the spending habits of average citizen. The items then been includ e in the Consumer Price Index is usually a necessity product or the product or services that been continuously used by the consumer. In prior 2006 the goods and services were classified according to Classification of Household Goods and Services (CHGS) with the nine main group which is Food, Beverage and Tobacco, Clothing and Footwear, Gross Rent Fuel Power, Furniture and Furnishing Household Equipment and Operation, Transportation and Communication, Recreation Entertainment Education and Cultural Services, and lastly is Miscellaneous goods and services. These baskets of consumer product have been changes from CHGS to COICOP (Classification of Individual Consumption According to purpose) in year 2006 until now and the additional group of product has been change to twelve which is Alcohol and Non-Alcohol Food and Drink and Routine Household Maintenance, others are remained constant. 1.1 BACKGROUND OF STUDY This study conducted to examine what is the causal relationship between economic variable and Malaysian CPI. The main purpose of this research is to reveal the relationship of economic variables impact towards the CPI for the last five years. The consumer price Index or CPI is the general and major indicator that explained the changes in retail price paid by the household for goods and services. CPI measures the changes in the general level of prices of a fixed basket of goods and services which represents the items which are normally consumed by an average household in Malaysia with reference to the base period. The CPI is designed to provide a broad measure of changes in retail prices experienced by Malaysian households as a group and should not be expected to exactly reflect the experience of any individual household. Therefore it will keep changes depending on the many factors that will influence it. The economic variable that been research in this study is inflation rate, Exchan ge rate, Palm oil, Money Supply and also Consumer Price Index. This research wants to reveal what is the variable that will have the relationship with Consumer price Index. Although the existing research provides some support links between the economic variable and CPI there is need for additional research. 1.2 PROBLEM STATEMENT Consumer Price index is one of the major indicator in one country because of ità ¢Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ¬Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¾Ã‚ ¢s explained the average general price of consumer product in that country. This is important because of its related with the efficiency of the country in managing the price of the consumer product that will remain changes from time to time. Therefore it is very important to understand what exactly the factors that lead to the change on the CPI and the methods to control the changes. It is not good if a country have a higher consumer price index compare to the average household income, it means that the household have a constraint in spending their money towards necessity product. Thus, in this research the main point is to know which economic variables that will give an impact towards the consumer product and the efficiency of the variable influence the CPI. 1.3 RESEARCH QUESTION In this study, there are several research questions that has been developed regarding the problem statement occurred. The research question of this research is: 1.3.1 To find out the current condition of the Consumer Price Index 1.3.2 To find out the reason the fluctuation of Consumer Price Index 1.3.3 To identified the effect of the economic variable towards the consumer price Index 1.3.4 To find out the consequences of the impact towards the country and household. 1.3.5 To list the ways to overcome a large fluctuation of the Consumer Price Index. 1.4 OBJECTIVE OF STUDY Several studies on CPI found that it is a common view that every country has a fluctuation on the Consumer Price Index. However, it cannot be denied that some of the economic variable will impact the fluctuation of CPI and it are been prove by the past research that been found in the abroad study. Therefore the main purpose of this study is to know the impact of the economic variable that been used as a variables towards the Consumer Price Index. 1.5 SIGNIFICANT OF THE STUDY There are several others factors that lead to the fluctuation or changes on the consumer Price Index such as political decision making, political stability, and a government decision development plan. In this study we just only want to research on the economic variable that would give a huge impact towards the CPI, compare to the others economic variables and the significant of the impact. 1.6 SCOPE OF STUDY The scope of this study would cover the consumer price product in Malaysia and the significant changes of the consumer product price. Next, this study also cover some of the economic variable that been choose as independent variables. The time horizon used in this study is single cross sectional where the economic variables may come from consumer price index (CPI), interest rate, foreign exchange, Money supply and palm oil. 1.7 LIMITATION OF STUDY Time constraint has been encountered ever since the study has been started at the early semester 2011 until April 2011 therefore its difficulty in order to distribute questionnaire and have a respondent and get a feedback on CPI. The study has been done by using the data that been collected and also the recent past supporting journal that have been done. This study is based on the data collected from the secondary sources and also the primary resources. The data been collected from the beginning January of the year 2005 until December end 2010. The time period of this research is for the 5 years. 1.8 DEFINITION OF TERMS 1.8.1 CPI CPI volumes represent the Consumer Price Index which is the average general price of consumer product that been group in Malaysia. 1.8.2 Inflation rate The rate at which the general level of prices for goods and services is rising, and, subsequently, purchasing power is falling 1.8.3 Exchange Rate The price of one countrys currency expressed in another countrys currency. In other words, the rate at which one currency can be exchanged for another 1.8.4 Money Supply The entire quantity of bills, coins, loans, credit and other liquid instruments in a countrys economy. 1.8.5 Palm oil Palm oil is the current price of the Palm Oil in countries. 1.9 SUMMARY Consumer price index is one of the major indicator that been see in evaluate the condition of one country. There are a few other indicator that can been use to evaluate one country such as the criminal cases, population, economic and others variable but the most preferable indicators is CPI because its related with the consumer which is the customer and price which is resources and leads to the revenue. So it is important to control CPI simultaneously with the household income because of its have a negative correlations. This study will examine the impact of economic variable towards the CPI. Few economic variables are taken to test whether there are any significant correlation between the dependent and independent variables. CHAPTER 3 METHODOLOGY AND DATA 3.0 INTRODUCTION The objectives of this study are to find the correlation between the economic variables and impact towards the consumer price index. Specifically, this study is determined which variable is have a huge impact towards the movement of the CPI. Therefore by doing this research we can exactly get the true information on the movement of the consumer price index rather than make assumption based on the own ideology. To achieve the objective of study, several test have been use to get the result of the variable. Example of the test that wants to be done is T-Test, F à ¢Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ¬ Test and Multiple Regressions. The test has been choosing because of it will give a clear and transparent view on the result and its uncomplicated compared to others test that more complicated. This test also have been supported by the hypothesis based on the understanding on the issued that been research or discuss. The hypothesis is the early assumption on the result that will happens at the end of the stud y. 3.1 DATA COLLECTION Data concerning on the historical of CPI and the economic variables were gathered to see whether there are any correlation between the dependent and all those independent variables. The secondary data will be collected from the past recent journal regarding this study. The study or research have been develop by the foreign people or country, but the variable is not the same but still similar. The journal that been used is only for support the consumer price index situation. 3.2 SAMPLING FRAME To secure an acceptable result, this study decided to use 5 economic variables from others economic variables and the data is collected for 5 years and in monthly basis. 3.3 SOURCES OF DATA The data on the dependent variables CPI was collected from the Malaysian Department of Statistic and the data are updated until December 2010 which is on the current updated. The data is in Malaysian Ringgit (RM). Next for the independent variables the data are been collected from the DataStream which is for Inflation Rate in percentage (%), Exchange rate in Malaysian ringgit (RM), Money Supply in Malaysian Ringgit (RM), and lastly for the palm oil is still in the Malaysian Ringgit (RM). The data have been collected from January 2005 until December 2010 and by using monthly data basis. 3.4 VARIABLES AND MEASUREMENT The variables used in this study can be categorized into two main types which are the dependent and the independent variables. 3.4.1 Dependent Variables The dependent variable for this study is the Consumer Price Index which will be measured in terms of average general level of price that been group under COICOP. 3.4.2 Independent Variables For this study, there are four independent variables that will be measured. There is the inflation rate, exchange rate, Money Supply and Palm Oil 3.5 RESEARCH DESIGN This research is designed to explore the relationship between dependent and independent variables. In this study, it engages in hypotheses testing that will explain the certain significant correlations between economic variables and the decision of going public. 3.5.1 Purpose of the Study The purpose of this study is to determine the causal relationships between economic variable and CPI or want to know the impact of the economic variable towards the CPI. 3.5.2 Types of Investigation This study involved the correlation types of investigation which is want s to investigation the relationship between the variables whether have a strong relationship, semi strong relationship, weak relationship and lastly is no relationship with the variables. 3.5.3 Unit of Analysis In this study, Consumer Price Index, Exchange Rate, Inflation rate, Money Supply, Palm Oil Price. 3.5.4 Time Horizon This study will use monthly basis data from year January 2005 until December 2010 THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK There is a classical theory that explained the high correlation between the economic variable factors influence the fluctuation of the Consumer Price Index Dependent variable: Consumer Price index Independent variables: Inflation rate, exchange rate, Money Supply and Palm Oil Price. Figure 1: Schematic Diagram (Relationship Diagram) Inflation Rate Independent Dependent Consumer Price Index Exchange Rate Money Supply Palm oil Price According to the schematic diagram above, it can be elaborated that the Consumer Price Index are determine by the inflation rate, Exchange Rate, Money Supply and Palm Oil Price. 3.6 DATA ANALYSIS AND TREATMENT The statistical tools use in the study is Multiple Linear Regression Model. This model of analysis is done to examine the simultaneous effects of several independent variables on a dependent variable that is interval scaled. In other used since is can explain the correlation between the dependent and independent variable. By using this correlation we can identify which variable will affect most on the dependent variable. This equation is one of the method that easier to use and understand. Multiple Linear Regression Model: (Equation 1) Where; Y = Dependent variable which represent Consumer Price Index = The constant number of equation = Independent variable which represent Inflation Rate = Independent variable which represent Exchange Rate = Independent variable which represent Money Supply = Independent variable which represent Palm Oil Price = Error 3.7 HYPOTHESIS STATEMENT Consumer Price Index movement can be influenced by many factors. The changes in these CPI may significantly change the spending of consumer and household. The consumer price index may also be effect by others external factors that canà ¢Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ¬Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¾Ã‚ ¢t be measures by using the data as an example political, government plan , and criminal cases that are happens and increase from time to time. Thus, there is important to make the hypothesis before makes a research and construct a finding. This hypothesis is bringing a general assumption the impact of the economic variables towards the consumer price index. Hypothesis 1 H0: inflation rate is a main contributor of the increasing in oil price. Hypothesis 2 H0: exchange rate is not a main contributor to the changes in general level of price. Hypothesis 3 H0: Money supply also a contributor to the movement of the Consumer Price Index level. Hypothesis 4 H0: Palm Oil is not a main contributor to the changes in average level of consumer price Index. 3.8 SUMMARY In the nutshell, this chapter will provide the research design that will be used in this study. The study aims to determine the relationship between economic variable factors and the consumer price index. This research will be done in accordance to the objective where to know whether there is any significant relationship between the economic variable factors with the average general price of CPI. This information will perhaps can be used by the household, private and public sector, for them to make a plan in the current general consumer price Index. Since study focuses on the data from 2005 until 2010, if would give a better picture on the movement of the historical CPI until current price influence by positive relation economic factors.

Henry Thoreau and Science :: Literature Poems Ecology Papers

Henry Thoreau and Science Though best known as a literary figure, Henry Thoreau showed a lasting interest in science. He read widely in the scientific literature of his day and published one the first scholarly discussions on forest succession. In fact, some historians rate Thoreau as one of the founders of the modern science of ecology. At the same time, Thoreau often lamented science’s tendency to kill poetry. Scientific writings coupled with his own careful observations often revealed life to him, but in other ways rendered nature lifeless. Modern-day Thoreauvians are also aware that science has largely become a tool for control and increased consumption, rather than for the appreciation and protection of wild nature. This paper explores some of Thoreau’s reflections on science and "system," and presents his view of the proper role of science in our lives. As will become clear, Thoreau’s worries are occasioned by his own scientific endeavors. His responses to science’s insuffici encies are reformist, suggesting ways to improve and supplement science rather than discard it. Why do precisely these objects which we behold make a world? Why has man just these species of animals for his neighbors; as if nothing but a mouse could have filled this crevice? — Walden (1) Introduction Henry Thoreau, like Goethe before him, showed a lasting interest in science. (2) He belonged to the Boston Natural History Society from 1850 onwards, and read widely in the current scientific literature. Beyond this, Thoreau was intensely interested in the scientific puzzles suggested by his own rambles around Concord, Massachusetts. In the years following Walden’s publication he observed more systematically and tested his hypotheses more rigorously, and published one of the first scholarly discussions on forest succession. Some historians rate Thoreau as one of the founders of the modern science of ecology. (3) At the same time Thoreau often lamented science’s tendency to kill poetry. The scientific writings of others and his own careful observations often revealed life to him, but at other times rendered nature lifeless. (4) Modern-day Thoreauvians are also aware of science’s role in the imperialistic conquest of nature. We love the wild, yet science has largely become a tool for control, commodification and increased consumption, rather than for the appreciation and protection of nature. (5) The proper role of science in human society and in our own lives is thus an important issue. This paper explores some of Thoreau’s reflections on science and "system.

Aristotle Essay example -- essays research papers

y does Plato believe that only Philosophers are fit to rule? Rather than the practical pursuit we are accustomed to, for Plato, Politics is an intellectual faculty. Governance by non-philosophers is to be governed by opinions, beliefs and self-interest; in contrast the philosopher ruler will govern with virtue and justice with no hidden agenda. The philosopher is in love, in love with learning, knowledge and truth. It is important to make a distinction here between the acquisition of knowledge and the acquisition of truth, because knowledge is not necessarily the truth. With the help of an allegory, Plato explains the sensible world of illusion and belief, the place where most people reside. The philosopher has stepped outside this world, into a world of knowledge and truth. Plato makes use of a cave to explain this; I will use another means. A child believes in the myth of Santa Claus, a child has good reason to suppose this myth is true, it is inculcated when he receives Christmas presents, the media, family and friends consolidate the belief, the child even writes to Santa Claus and receives a reply. On Christmas Day this belief becomes a ‘reality’. Through education and maturity, the child will have doubts as to the truth of this illusion. At some stage during the transition from childhood to adulthood he will acknowledge the illusion, and further, during parenthood the myth really comes home to roost as knowledge and absolute truth. (He now has a choice; he can put an end to the myth or continue the cycle) What is distinctive regar ding each stage, is how far they have come out of the cave. Through illusion and belief to knowledge, or from artisan to auxiliary to philosopher. The fundamental prerequisite to becoming a philosopher ruler is to have knowledge of the forms, therefore knowing the truth. The forms do not exist in the sensible world, they can only be found in the super-sensible world. Platos‘ theory of the forms is partly logical and partly metaphysical. The logical part is, take for example a dog, there will be many types of dog, and general particulars regarding a dog. The form of a dog is universal and eternal it has no position in space or time, it is not born when a dog is born, nor does it die when a dog dies. The metaphysical part of the theory is the form of a dog is a perfect, unique dog, created by God. The dog is real, pa... ...ft of the preeminently "excellent" citizen to protect the state's constitution by making him the ruler of the state. Aristotle further justifies his position by stating that a citizen should not be made the ruler of a state because of his wealth or his ancestry. Unless by some chance wealth or ancestry affects the ability of a citizen to work towards the interests of the constitution. Of course the wealthy citizens and those citizens of glamorous ancestry should not be denied the chance to rule the state, for the ruler should be chosen for his "excellence" alone. Even in modern democracies like our own Aristotle's ideas hold true. When we vote in the election of the ruler of our country we, theoretically, are voting for the single most "excellent" citizen of our nation. That is we are voting for that citizen who can do the best job of working towards our common interests. The citizen of a state who has the greatest ability to work towards the salvation of the constitution has a gift that all citizens can benefit from. It only makes sense to beseech that citizen to lead the rest of the citizens in working towards the common interests of the state.

Starbucks Planning

One thing that all managers do is plan. The planning they do may be extensive or it may be limited. It might be for the next week or month or it might be for the next couple of years. It might cover a work group or it might cover an entire division. No matter what type or extent of planning a manager does, the important thing is that planning takes place. Without planning, there would be nothing for managers to organize, lead, or control. Based on the numerous accomplishments that Starbucks has achieved through the efforts of its employees, managers, no doubt, have done their planning. Company Goals As of April 2006, Starbucks had 11,377 stores in 37 countries. During the 30 weeks that ended April 30, the company opened 755 new stores in the United States and 381 new stores overseas. However, that's a far cry from where the company wants and intends to be someday. CEO Jim Donald says Starbucks' long-term goal is 15,000 U. S. stores and 30,000 stores globally. For 2006, the company's goal is to open approximately 1,800 new stores globally and to reach about $7. 6 billion in revenues. Goals for the next 3 to 5 years include attaining total net revenue growth of 20 percent and earnings per share growth between 20 to 25 percent. In addition to its financial and other growth goals, Starbucks has an even â€Å"glitzier† goal. It wants to have a hand in helping define society’s pop culture menu. Although this goal takes Starbucks beyond its coffee roots, it seems to fit well with the unconventional approach to business that Howard Schultz has followed from the beginning. Company Strategies Starbucks has been called the most dynamic retail brand conceived over the last 2 decades. It has been able to rise above the commodity nature of its product and become a global brand leader by reinventing the coffee experience. Millions of times each week, a customer receives a drink from a Starbucks barista. It’s a reflection of the success that Howard Schultz has had in creating something that never really existed in the United States—cafe life. And in so doing, he created a cultural phenomenon. Starbucks is changing what we eat and drink. It’s altering where we work and play. It’s shaping how we spend time and money. No one is more surprised by this cultural impact than Howard Schultz. He says, â€Å"It amazes all of us how we've become part of popular culture. Our customers have given us permission to extend the experience. † Starbucks has found a way to appeal to practically every customer demographic as its customers cover a broad base. It’s not just the affluent or the urban professionals and it's not just the intellectuals or the creative types who frequent Starbucks. You'll find soccer moms, construction workers, bank tellers, and clerical assistants at Starbucks. And despite the high price of its products, customers pay it because they think it's worth it. What they get for that price is some of the finest coffee available commercially, custom preparation, and, of course, that Starbucks ambiance——the music, the comfy chairs, the aromas, the hissing steam from the espresso machine—all invoking that warm feeling of community and connection that Schultz experienced on his first business trip to Italy and knew instinctively could work elsewhere. There's no hiding the fact that Starbucks’ broad strategy is to grow into a global empire. Howard Schultz says, â€Å"We are in the second inning of a 9-inning game. We are just beginning to tap into all sorts of new markets, new customers, and new products. But any growth that Starbucks pursues is done so with great care and planning. CEO Jim Donald says that all company growth is governed by whether quality can be maintained. If there is any uncertainty about quality, a new strategy won’t fly, no matter how good it might seem. Starbucks has designed its growth strategies to exploit the customer connections it has so carefully nurtured and the brand equity it has so masterfully built. And company executives have taken the company in new directions even while continuing to grow store numbers and locations and increasing same—store sales. As the world’s number-one specialty coffee retailer, Starbucks sells coffee drinks, food items, coffee beans, and coffee—related accessories and equipment. In addition, Starbucks sells whole bean coffees through a specialty sales group and grocery stores. Starbucks has grown beyond coffee into related businesses such as coffee—flavored ice cream and ready-to-drink coffee beverages. These Starbucks branded products have been developed with other companies. For instance, its Frappuccino and DoubleShot coffee drinks were developed with Pepsi-Cola. Its Starbucks Ice Cream was developed with Dreyer's. In early 2006, Starbucks launched its ready-to-drink coffee drink, Starbucks Iced Coffee, through a joint venture with Pepsi-Cola. The company extended its success at brand extensions to selected global markets when it launched a fresh Starbucks-branded premium ready-to-drink chilled coffee called Starbucks Discoveries in convenience stores in Taiwan and Japan. This product was enthusiastically embraced by customers immediately. In addition, Starbucks markets a selection of premium tea products since its acquisition of Tazo, LLC. Starbucks has also pursued other strategic initiatives to enhance its core business. For instance, in November 2001, the company launched the Starbucks prepaid card. Since that time, more than 77 million prepaid cards have been activated and loaded with more than $1 billion. The director of Starbucks global card services says, â€Å"We've been pleasantly surprised by the card business, by how fast it's grown in percentage of tender, and how people use the card. It offers so many opportunities to grow from there. It's one of our fastest-growing channels. Industry experts say that part of the reason for its success is its dual use–as gift cards and for customer loyalty. Also important to its success, however; is the fact that the company has made it easy to purchase, reload, and use. The company is on the leading edge in finding innovative ways to get the prepaid cards into potential customers' hands such as parent—student cards, gift-card malls, and business gifts and i ncentives. Having conquered the coffee business, one of the company’s most interesting brand extensions has been music. Selling music at Starbucks began when a store manager made tapes for his store. These tapes proved to be so popular that the company began licensing music compilation CDs for sale. Initially, Howard Schultz had to be persuaded about this product and recalls, â€Å"I began to understand that our customers looked to Starbucks as kind of editor. It was like . . . we trust you. Help us choose. † And it you think about it, music has always been part of the cafe or coffeehouse experience. In addition to selling its private—label CDs, the company launched the HearMusic Cafe in Santa Monica, California, in March 2004. At these stores, customers burn their own compilation CDs. After sampling selections, if they choose to buy, customers can walk up to a music â€Å"bar† and order a custom CD with any variation of songs and have it delivered to their table when it’s completed. Based on the success Starbucks has had with music, it decided to selectively link the Starbucks brand with certain kinds of movies, the first being Akeelah and the Bee. The president of Starbucks Entertainment division says, â€Å"Movies are a very important part of our entertainment strategy. The thought was to start with music, build some success, establish credibility, and then move into films. Eventually, the company wants to be a destination not just for java but also for music, movies, books, and more. Not everything that Starbucks touches turns to gold. One of its big flops was a magazine called Joe launched by the company and Time. It lasted three issues before being called off. A carbonated coffee beverage product called Mazagran, developed with Pepsi—Col a, never made it to market. Too, Starbucks decided to close its Torrefazione Italia cafes when they didn't meet the goals set for them. What about the core industry Starbucks is in? How is it doing? The hot drinks market continues to sizzle. It's forecasted to increase 10. 9 percent between now and 2010. In addition, the 2006 National Coffee Drinking Trends report of the National Coffee Association of the United States says that coffee tied soft drinks in daily market penetration for the first time since 1990. And Starbucks wants to remain at the forefront of the industry. Some 24 percent of Starbucks customers visit 16 times per month—a number that no other fast—food chain even comes close to. There's no doubt that Howard Schultz has built and continues to build Starbucks to be big. Growth has been funded through cash flow, not by selling stock or by using debt financing. Some of the new ideas to be implemented include an aggressive roll-out of drive-through windows, which now number more than 1,000 U. S. locations and 35 Canadian sites; a co-branded Web site between Yahoo! and Starbucks where online daters can arrange to meet and drink free coffee; a partnership between Starbucks and Kellogg that created a hot breakfast product; and two new banana-based blended drinks. Discussion Questions 1. Starbucks has some pretty specific goals it wants to achieve. Given this, do you think managers would be more likely to make rational decisions, bounded rationality decisions, or intuitive decisions? Explain. 2. Give examples of decisions that Starbucks managers might make under conditions of certainty. Under conditions of risk. Under conditions of uncertainty. 3. Make a list of Starbucks’ goals. Describe what type of goal each is. Then, describe how that stated goal might affect, how the following employees do their jobs: (a) a part-time store employee-—a barista—in Omaha; (b) a quality assurance technician at the company's roasting plant in Carson City, Nevada; (c) a regional sales manager; (d) the senior vice president of new markets; and (e) the CEO. . Discuss the types of growth strategies that Starbucks has used. Be specific. 5. Evaluate the growth strategies Starbucks is using. What do you think it will take for these strategies to be successful? 6. What competitive advantage(s) do you think Starbucks has? What will it have to do to maintain that (those) competitive advantage(s)? 7. Do you think the Starbucks brand can become too saturated ·Ã¢â‚¬â€t hat is, extended to too many different products? Why or why not? 8. What companies might be good benchmarks for Starbucks? Why? What companies might want to benchmark Starbucks? Why? 9. Describe how the following Starbucks managers might use forecasting, budgeting, and scheduling (be specific): (a) a retail store manager; (b) a regional marketing manager; (c) the manager of global trends; and (d) the CEO. 10. Describe Howard Schultz as a strategic leader. 11. Is Starbucks â€Å"living† its mission? Explain. (You can find the company mission on its Web site, www. starbucks. com or in the continuing case found at the end of Part 2. 12. Do a brief SWOT analysis of Starbucks.

Advertising and Sales Essay

Assignment Q1. What is the meaning of advertising? Explain the advertising pyramid with a neat diagram. â€Å"Advertising is the non-personal communication of information usually paid for and usually persuasive in nature about products, services or ideas by identified sponsors through the various media to reach broad audiences† The five basic element of this pyramid are: attention, interest, desire, action and satisfaction. Attention: The first objective of advertising is to capture attention of the consumer. The job is easy as even shouting or clapping can draw attention. Therefore, the copywriter usually makes the headline very catchy by using the bigger fonts. The other techniques are to use short punch lines in conversational language. Interest: The advertisement’s next objective is to create interest in the readers about the product. After giving a good headline, their interest is retained by elaborating on the key features of the product. This is usually incorporated in the body copy. Desire: In this step, the advertisement creates a situation for the prospective customer to enjoy benefits of the product vicariously. The writer creates a situation that makes the reader feel as though there is a lot that is being missed if one does not use the product. Action: The purpose of this step is to motivate people to do something. No advertisement is successful if it cannot induce any action. This is not a difficult step because if the copy is clear then surely the reader will act. Satisfaction: The tip of the pyramid is satisfaction. After the product is bought, the buyer should have a feel of satisfaction. The customer should always feel that it has got the appropriate returns for the money spent. Q2. What do you understand by integrated marketing communication (IMC)? What are the various roles? â€Å"IMC is a strategic business process used to develop, execute, and evaluate coordinated, measureable, persuasive brand commun ications programs over time with customers, prospects, employees, associates, and other targeted relevant internal and external audiences. The goal is to generate both short-term financial returns and build long-term brand and share-holder value.† Integrated Marketing Communications (IMC) is a process involving coordination of various promotional elements and other  marketing activities that communicate with a firm’s customers. It includes managing customer relationships that drive brand value through communication efforts. The role of IMC can be discussed with the following points:  · Identifying the target audience  · Specifying promotion objectives  · Setting the promotion budget  · Selecting the right promotional tools  · Designing the promotion  · Scheduling the promotion Identifying the target audience: IMC’s first function is to identify the right audience. It is very important to deliver the message to the right audience. Specifying promotion objectives:  · Designed for a well-defined target audience  · Measurable  · Cover a specified time period Hierarchy of effects: Sequence of stages a prospective buyer goes through Use as a tool to develop objectives  · Awareness – Ability to recognize and remember the product or brand  · Interest – Increase in desire to learn about the product features  · Evaluation – Consumer’s appraisal of the product on important attributes  · Trial – Consumer’s actual first purchase and use  · Adoption – Repeated purchase and use of the product or brand Setting the promotion budget:  · Percentage of sales: Funds are allocated as a percentage of past or anticipated sales  · Competitive parity: Matching the competitor’s absolute level of spending Selecting the right promotional tools  · Specify the combination of the five basic IMC tools – advertising, Personal selling, sales promotion, public relations and direct marketing  · Promotion mix can vary  · Assess the comparative importance of the various tools Designing the promotion:  · Design of the promotion plays a primary role in determining the message that is communicated to the audience  · Design activity is viewed as the step requiring the most creativity  · Design each promotional activity to communicate the same message Scheduling the promotion:  · Determine the most effective timing  · Promotion schedule describes  · Factors such as seasonality and competitive promotion activity can influence the schedule. Q3. While developing an advertisement, some theories are useful. Discuss the two theories to design an advertisement. In developing an advertisement for an advertising campaign, several theoretical frameworks are useful. The first theory is the hierarchy of effects model. The second is a means to an end chain. Both the hierarchy of effects model and a means to an end chain can be used to develop leverage points. 1. Hierarchy-of-Effects Model Among advertising theories, the hierarchy-of-effects model is predominant. It helps clarify the objectives of an advertising campaign as well as the objective of a particular advertisement. The model suggests that a consumer or a business buyer moves through a series of six steps when becoming convinced to make a purchase. These six steps are as follows: Awareness – If most of the target audience is unaware of the object, the communicator’s task is to build awareness, perhaps just name and recognition with simple messages repeating the product name. Consumers must become aware of the brand. Knowledge – The target audience might have product awareness but may not know much more; hence this stage involves creating brand knowledge. This is where comprehension of the brand name and what it stands for become important. What are the brand’s specific appeals, its benefits? Liking – If target members know the product, how do they feel about it? If the audience looks unfavorably towards the product then the communicator has to find out why. If the unfavorable view is based on real problems, communication campaigns alone cannot do the job of erasing it. Preference – The target audience might like the product but not prefer it to others. In this case, the communicator must try to build consumer preference by promoting quality, value, performance and other features. Conviction – A target audience might  prefer a particular product but not develop the confidence about buying it. The communicator’s job is to build conviction among the target audience. Purchase – Finally, some members of the target audience might have conviction but not quite get around to making the purchase. Th ey may wait for more information or plan to act later. 2. Means-End Theory A second theoretical approach a creative (team) can use to design an advertisement is a means-end-chain. This approach suggests that an advertisement should contain a message or means that lead the consumer to a desired end state. Means – end theory is the basis of a model called the Means-End Conceptualizations of Components for Advertising Strategy (MECCAS). The MECCAS model suggests using five elements in creating advertisements.  · The product’s attributes – delicious and refreshing are the products attribute.  · Consumer benefits – delicious and refreshing are linked with the benefit of freshness and good taste.  · Leverage point – the leverage point in the advertisement is the link between the benefit of delicious drink and the personal value of choosing the right drink of an athlete.  · Personal Values – the value of the consumer, the reason of buying Coca Cola. He could value the ’refreshing’ or the ’delicious’ attributes. The marketers need to understand the personal value so that the message will hit the right target. Q4. What do you mean by public relations(PR)? What are the difference between PR and advertising? â€Å"Public relations† is used to build rapport with employees, customers, investors, voters or the general public. Public Relations (PR) is the actions of a corporation, store, government, individual etc. in promoting goodwill between itself and the public, the community, employees, customers etc. The most comprehensive definition is as follows: â€Å"Public relation is the management function which evaluates public attitudes, identifies the policies and procedures of an organization with the public interest and executes a program of action and communication to earn public understanding and acceptance.† The following are the differences between advertising and public relations. Advertising 1. The company pays for advertising the company. Hence the focus is on getting its products or  services. 2. Since you are paying for the space, you have creative control on what goes into that advertisement. 3. Advertisements can be published or run repeatedly. An advertisement generally has a longer shelf life than one press release. 4. In advertising, you get to exercise your creativity in creating new advertising campaigns and materials. 5. If you are working at an advertising agency, your main contacts are yours-workers and the agency’s clients. 6. You are looking out your target audience and advertise accordingly. You would not advertise a kid’s Product in a business magazine. 7. Some industry professionals such as Account Executive have contact with the clients. Others like Copywriters or Graphic Designers in the agency may not meet with the client at all. 8. â€Å"Sales!, 20% discount, Buy this product! Act now! Call today!† These are the things you can say in an advertisement. You want to use those buzz words to motivate people to buy your product. Public relations 1. The objective is to get free publicity for space. You know exactly when that advertisement will on air to be published. 2. You have no control over how the media presents your information, if they decide to use your information at all. They are not obligated to cover your event or publish your press release. 3. You submit a press release about a new product or about a news conference once. The PR exposure you receive is only circulated once and the editor will not publish more than once. 4. In public relations, you have to have a nose for news and be able to generate buzz through that news. You exercise your creativity in the way you search for new news to release to the media. 5. In PR, the main contacts will be people in the area of publications and broadcast media. 6. It is generally not possible to segment, target or position the product or service. 7. In public relations, you are very visible to the media. PR professionals are not always called on for the good news. In an emergency you may have to give a statement or on-camera interview to journalists. You may represent your company as a spokesperson at an event. 8. You are strictly writing in a no-nonsense news format. Any blatant commercial messages in your communications are disregarded by the media. Q5. What are the four types of annalists used to develop a comprehensive model for evaluation of a sales organization? There are mainly four factors or types of analysis that are usually needed to  develop a comprehensive model for evaluation of a sales organization. They are: 1) Sales analysis 2) Cost analysis 3) Profitability analysis 4) Productivity analysis 1) Sales analysis: It is an important factor for evaluating the effectiveness of a sales organization. Sales analysis detects strengths and weaknesses of the organization. Sales analysis is described as a detailed inspection of a company’s sales data, which includes assimilating, classifying, comparing and drawing conclusions. Sales analysis is done based on the following parameters: a) Levels in sales organization: Sales analysis should be done at all levels of the sales organizations. This includes evaluation of sales performance from the company level down to the last level. b) Types of sales: The analysis of different types of sales at different organizational levels definitely increases the sales manager’s ability to detect problem areas in the company’s sales performance. For example, analysis can be done: a. Based on type of products b. By distribution channels types c. By type of customer classifications d. By size of orders 2) Cost analysis: Cost analysis is the analysis of costs that affect sales volume. The purpose of marketing cost analysis is to determine the profitability of sales control units, like market segments, sales territories and products. This is done by subtracting the marketing costs from the sales revenues, associated with the sales control units. 3) Profitability analysis: Profitability analysis of marketing units (that is, regions, branches, channels, products or customer groups) can be developed by preparing profit and loss (or income and expense) statements for marketing units. However, the question arises as to how to allocate indirect or shared expenses to various marketing units. There are two approaches for profitability analysis 4) Productivity analysis: Productivity is usually measured by ratios between outputs and inputs. For example, sales per salesperson are used by many companies as a measure of productivity. There  are other productivity ratios such as selling expenses per salesperson, sales calls per salesperson, and quotations submitted per salesperson. Q6. Describe the meaning and importance of media fix decisions. A media mix is the way various types of media are strategically combined in an advertising plan, such as using newspaper and posters to announce a new product as the iPod managers did, followed by television advertising that shows how to use the product and billboards that reminded people to look for it when they go out to the store. A media vehicle is specific TV program (Comedy Circus, CID), newspapers (The Telegraph, Mumbai Mirror), magazines (The Sport star, Elle). Media planning is the way advertisers identify and select media options based on research into the audience profiles of various media; planning also includes scheduling and budgeting. Media buying is the task of identifying specific vehicles, such as TV channels/programs or websites, negotiating the cost to advertise in them and handling the details of billing and payment. Frequency refers to the number of times a person is exposed to the advertisement. An impression is one person’s opportunity to be exposed one time to an advertisement in a broadcast program, newspapers, magazines or outdoor locations. Circulation means the number of copies sold. In the media industry, there are professionals who do both, sell and buy advertising. Media sales people work for a medium, such as a magazine or television channel and their objective is to build the best possible arguments to convince media planners to use the medium they represent. There are also media reps, who are people or companies that sell space (in print) and time (in broadcast) for a variety of media. The rate base is the real number of copies of a newspaper or magazine that gets printed and sold. Readership is the average number of readers per copy sold.