Strategic Analysis of Easyjet - 4767 Words

STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT ASSIGNMENT QUESTION. TAKING INTO CONSIDERATION AN INTERNATIONAL OR DOMESTIC ORGANISATION THAT YOU BELIEVE HAS ACHIEVED SUPERIOR PERFORMANCE IN THE PAST YEAR, USE RELEVANT FRAMEWORKS AND MODELS TO APPRAISE CRITICALLY THE THIS COMPANY. TABLE OF CONTENTS. INTRODUCTION (COMPANY BACKGROUND) 1. DEFINITION OF TERMS 1.1 VISION AND MISION STATEMENT 1.1.1. STRATEGY 2. PART 1: ENVIRONMENTAL INDUSTRY STRUCTURE, OPPORTUNITIES AND THREATS 2.1. THE ENVIRONMENT- STEEP 2.2. THE INDUSTRY’S STRUCTURE – PORTER’S FIVE FORCES 2.3. SWOT ANALYSIS 2.3.1. INTERNAL ANALYSIS (STRENGTHS AND WEAKNESSES) 2.3.2. EXTERNAL ANALYSIS (OPPORTUNITIES AND THREATS) 3. PART†¦show more content†¦(352). 1.1.1 STRATEGY According to Jan Havenga amp; Llse Hobbs in A practical guide to Strategy†¦.’ The term strategy is considered by many to be a weighty subject. It is neither like a science nor a profession and has been in its military form for ages. But it’s new in other aspects(less than 50yrs) as a discipline or field of study. Hitt at al define strategy as; an integrated and coordinated set of commitments and actions designed to exploit core competencies and gain a competitive advantage†¦Ã¢â‚¬â„¢(p.9). 2. PART 1: ENVIRONMENTAL INDUSTRY STRUCTURE, OPPORTUNITIES AND THREATS. 2.1. THE ENVIRONMENT - STEEP The features or elements listed below are likely to have an impact on the airline industry and should be considered when formulating an effective company strategy for easyJet. Socio -cultural factors. †¢ The expectation of people to fly at cheaper rates is growing alongside the number of low-cost carriers. Hence easyJet is faced by competitors that are ready and able to match its prices on similar routes. easyJet has concentrated on maintaining its low costs in order to remain competitive. †¢ London particularly in the UK is known as a popular travel destination for people around the world. easyJet, considering people with lower income,Show MoreRelatedThe strategic analysis of EasyJet and Easy Group --the analysis of organisational assets and Growth-share Matrix analysis for the Easy Group3795 Words   |  16 PagesIntroduction The assignment was based on a strategic marketing analysis of Easy Jet and Easy Group. It will be carried out through two exclusive parts. In the first part, firstly, we are going to give a general overview on easyJets assets, then mainly concentrate on its critical capability which formed its core competence. Essentially, historical comparison approach was adopted to evaluate the organizations relative strengths and weakness. The second one is by constructing a Growth-share MatrixRead MoreManagement Accounting Information Aids Managers1639 Words   |  7 PagesEasyjet Plc. was established in 1995 and has grown from flying from London Luton to Edinburgh and Glasgow to 2015 where Easy Jet now flies over 600 different routes and operates across over 30 countries. Easy jet expanded its business activities to include the sale of package holidays and hotel bookings. Easy Jet has strategic objectives in which it likes to follow. These objectives are set out in Easy Jets 2014 Annual and Financial report. The objectives are as follows: - 1. Drive demand, ConversionRead MoreStrategy Easyjet887 Words   |  4 Pages2.1 Strategy EasyJet has adopted its business model from Southwest Airlines from the United states. It is adapted to the European market trough further cost-cutting measures. Important points in this business model are high aircraft utilization, short times on airport, charging for not needed extras and put much efforts in keeping the operating costs low. The key words in the strategy of Easy jet are â€Å"low price and no frill† based on Porter’s generic strategies (2.1.1) (appendix XX). This statesRead MoreEasyjet Case Study1039 Words   |  5 PagesStudy Corporate success of EasyJet EasyJet focuses on a cost leadership strategy and differentiation strategy. Central to the easy philosophy is yield management. The Easy model provides to the customer functional services at the lowest possible price, on the basis of the real value of the basics of the service provided, avoiding any unessential frills. EasyJet was launched in 1995 and was the pioneer in the economical airlines segment. The PESTEL analysis of EasyJet airlines shown in figure 1Read MoreEasyjet, The Main Strategy Of Easyjet Essay1476 Words   |  6 Pages Introduction EasyJet plc is a low-cost passenger airline what conducts it’s operations throughout the United Kingdom and mainland Europe. Bloomberg. (2016) Easyjet Plc. [Online] [31st October 2016] http://www.bloomberg.com/profiles/companies/EZJ:LN-easyjet-plc The main strategy of Easyjet is to be Europe’s preferred short-haul airline, delivering market-leading returns. Easyjet Corporate. (2015) Annual report and accounts 2015. [Online] [31st October 2016] http://corporate.easyjet.com/~/medRead MoreEasyjet Is A British Airline Based At London Luton Airport1564 Words   |  7 PagesINTRODUCTION EasyJet is a British airline based at London Luton Airport. Sir Stelios Haji-loannou founded EasyJet in 1995 with the vision of creating a customer-focused brand that would revolutionize the concept of air travel. More than fifteen years on, EasyJet is the Europe’s leading airline and the largest airline in the United Kingdom carrying over 50 million passengers a year and flyting to over 600 routes across 30 countries. EasyJet flies to 44 out of 50 Europe’s largest airports and holdsRead MoreRyanair Plc : A British Airline And Will Provide A Brief Summary About The Company1636 Words   |  7 PagesIntroduction: This essay is about Easyjet Plc which is a British airline and will provide a brief summary about the company. It will make arguments on how Management Accounting information could aid the managers of the business, evaluating how Budgeting, Variance Analysis and Activity Based could be utilized within the company and will provide ways in which the managers could keep in mind to make recommendations and decisions. EasyJet Plc: EasyJet Plc founded in 1995 by a Greek Cypriot businessmanRead MoreSwot Analysis Of Easyjet1159 Words   |  5 PagesINTRODUCTION Innovators and bold in their ventures in business EasyJet are key contenders within the European economic market and despite Brexit, have huge scope to succeed in a tactical relocation in a suitable EU member state after Great Britain imminently leaves the European Union. Background Founded by Greek billionaire Sir Stelios Haji-Ioannou and driven by CEO Dame Carolyn McCall since taking her post in 2010. EasyJet launched in 1995, and has made a niche market for itself as cheap andRead Morete te tet tete te Essay2496 Words   |  10 Pagesï » ¿PEST Analysis of Airline Industry? Hi, Im doing an assignment conducting a strategic analysis of EasyJet and have to do a PEST analysis of the industry. Can anyone offer me any help outlining the main ...show more Update : I have a good idea about what to cover in each section but Im ...show more . Best Answer Tristen B answered 6 years ago PESTLE analysis if you are including legal and environmental. AirlinesRead MoreAnalysis of Ryanair and Its Business Environment1871 Words   |  7 Pagescom, Ryanair operates more 1600 daily flights from over 68 bases across 1600 routes with 186 destinations in 30 countries. Several factors will be addressed with regards to Ryanair’s financial issues, customer satisfaction, competitiveness, swot analysis, strategy sustainability, leadership of the CEO and corporate culture will all be looked at individually in context with the airline’s operations. 1. Financial and Customer satisfaction issues (Ryanair’s Ups and Downs) †¢ According to Michael O’Leary’s

Financial Structuring at Euro Disney Free Essays

Financial structuring at euro Disney 1984-85 Disney negotiates with Spain and France to create a European theme park. Chooses France as the site. 1987Disney signs letter of intent with the French government. We will write a custom essay sample on Financial Structuring at Euro Disney or any similar topic only for you Order Now 1988 Selects lead commercial bank lenders for the senior portion of the project. Forms the (SNC). Beings planning for the equity offering of 51% of Euro Disneyland as required in the letter of intent. 1989 European press and stock analysts visit Walt Disney World in Orlando. Being extensive news and television campaign. Stock stars trading at 20-25 percent premium from the issue price. The layout of Euro Disneyland Euro Disneyland is determinedly American in its theme. There was an alcohol ban in the park despite the attitude amoung the French that wine with a meal is God-given right. Designers presented a plan for a Main Street USA, based on scenes of America in the 1920S. Eisner decreed that images of gangsters and speakeasies were too negative. Thiug made more ornate and Victorian than Walt Disney’s idealized Midwestern small town. Main Street remained Main Street. Steamships leave from Main Street the Grand Canyou Diorama en riunte to Frontierland. It was replaced by a gleaming brass and wood complex called Discoverland, which was based on themes of Jules Verne and Leonardo da Vinci. Eisner ordered $8 or $10 million in extras ti the â€Å" Visionarium ’’, exhibit, a360-degree movie about French culture which was required by the French in their original contract. With the American Wild West being so frequently captured on film, Europeans have their own idea if what life was like back then. In Fantasyland, designers strived to avoid competing with the nearby European reality of actual medieval towns, cathedrals, and chateaux. The park is criss-crossed with covered walkways. Eisner personally ordered the installation of 35 fireplaces in hotels and restaurants. Children all over Europe were primed to consume. Even one of the intellectuals who contributed to Disney-bashing broadsheet was forced to admit with resignation that his 10year-old son † swears by Michael Jackson † At Euro Disneyland, under the name † Capital Eo,† Disney just so happened to have a Michael Jackson attracting him. Disney expected to serve 15000 to 17000 meals per hour, excluding snake. Menus and service system were developed so that they varied both in style and price. There is a 400 seat buffet, 6 table service restaurant, 12 counter service units, 10 snack bars, 1 Discovery food court seating 850, 9 popcorn wagons, 15 ice-cream carts, 14 specialty food carts, and 2 employee cafeterias. Food service will reflect the fable’s country of origin: Pinocchio’s facility having German food; Cinderella’s French; Bella Notte’s, Italian and so on. Many Europeans don’t care much for very spicy food, Tex-Mex recipes were toned down. A special coffee blend had to be developed which would have universal appeal. Hot dog cart would reflect the regionalism of American tastes. How to cite Financial Structuring at Euro Disney, Papers

Managing People and Organization part of organization behavior

Introduction The concept of management has been studied and explored for centuries. Many business experts have endeavored to unravel the truth behind management of organizations and its overall impact in the business performance. Based on this analogy, it follows that managers play a crucial role in directing certain activities within an organization.Advertising We will write a custom case study sample on Managing People and Organization part of organization behavior specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More They can either cause an organization to prosper or fall down to its knees, depending on several management principles, which might be adopted (Jones George, 2007). This case study explores how various organizations get affected by different management patterns, with reference to Lehman Brothers. To attain this objective, several segments will be covered including the company’s profile, history, business growth, growth, crisis circumstances, bankruptcy and its current situation. Lehman Brothers Lehman Brothers is one of the companies in the world, which will forever be remembered for its major role in the commercial and financial history of the United States. For more than one hundred and fifty years, the company remained active in the American market, expanding its services to several countries around the world (Ryback, 2012). A close analysis of Lehman Brothers offers insights into how the American market has been transformed through industrial and technological advancement. Company profile Lehman Brothers was once a common name on the New York Stock Exchange before it collapsed in 2008. The company specialized in financial services across the world. It is worth noting that Lehman Brothers was ranked as the fourth largest investment organization in the country. The company was widely involved in an array of financial activities, including but not limited to investment banking, private banking, trading a nd private equity. At the peak of the global financial crisis in 2008, the company was among several others, which could not survive the crisis. In September 2008, the firm applied for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, after a huge number of its clients withdrew from the company. Besides this, Lehman further registered massive losses on the stock market, with most of its assets being devalued by several American agencies dealing in credit rating (Ryback, 2012). Aside from its outstanding performance in America’s financial market, the organization equally registered the largest bankruptcy in the country’s history. As a result, the company is considered to have contributed towards the global economic crisis, which rocked the world in 2000s. Following the filling that was done of September 15 2008, Barclays agreed to purchase the company, even though the decision was to receive a regulatory approval to allow change of ownership and management of the organization. The agre ement was endorsed by James Peck of the U.S. Bankruptcy Court, a few days after it had been filed.Advertising Looking for case study on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Importantly, Barclays was to acquire the company’s head office building in New York and several North-American investment divisions. Seven days after this agreement, Nomura Holdings went on record by expressing its intensions to purchase the company’s assets in Australia, Japan and Hong Kong (Ryback, 2012). Additionally, Nomura was to acquire the company’s investments in parts of the Middle East and Europe. The deal was sealed on October 13 2008. Company History The history of Lehman Brothers dates back in mid 19th century when, Henry Lehman immigrated to America from German at the age of twenty three years in 1844. While in Alabama, Henry ran a dry goods store, named, ‘H. Lehman’ before it changed to Ã¢â‚¬Ë œH. Lehman and Bro’ in 1847, when he was joined by his brother, Emmanuel Lehman. Lehman Brothers was finally established in the year 1850, when Mayer Lehman, the youngest brother teamed up in Alabama (Barsch, 2012). Due to the availability of cotton in 1850s, the three brothers considered it as a form of payment for merchandise. As a result, they started dealing in cotton business, before it expanded to become a leading segment of their operations. Unfortunately, Henry Lehman succumbed to yellow fever in 1855, leaving the business in the hands of his two brothers, who focused on trade and brokerage. As the cotton business continued to expand, most activities shifted to New York City, where Lehman Brothers launched its first branch office. For effective management, Emmanuel moved to New York City (Barsch, 2012). The Civil War of 1862 saw Lehman Brothers, team-up with John Durr, a merger that resulted into the birth of Lehman, Durr Co. It is believed that the new company played a major role in the reconstruction of Alabama. Their joint efforts further bred the New York Cotton Exchange in the year 1870. Additionally, the firm explored other fields like the railroad bonds and financial advisory business. By 1883, Lehman Brothers gained membership for the New York Stock Exchange, where they had their initial public offering in 1899. In 1906, the firm experienced a shift from its partnered with Goldman Sachs, to form the General Cigar Co. under the leadership of Philip Lehman. The following years saw Lehman Brothers underwrite several issues, in collaboration with Goldman Sachs. In 1925, Lehman Brothers experienced a change in management after Robert Lehman rose to the helm of the company’s management from his father, Philip Lehman. It is during Philip’s time that the company embarked on venture capital as the market continued to grow, moving to the One William Street location (Barsch, 2012).Advertising We will write a custom case study sam ple on Managing People and Organization part of organization behavior specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Lehman Brothers underwrote the initial public offering of Dulmont, which facilitated the financing of America’s Radio Corporation in 1930s. Besides this, they were involved in the funding of other companies like Kerr-McKee and Halliburton. It is believed that 1924 marked a turning point in the running of the company as John Hancock became the first non-family member to partner with the company. Others who followed suit included Paul Mazur and Gutman Munroe in 1927. Robert Lehman, the last family member to lead the firm died in 1969, leaving a huge management gap, coined with the looming financial crisis (Barsch, 2012). This saw Pete Peterson coming on board to save the situation, based on his management experience at Bell Howell Corporation. Under the leadership of Pete, the company experienced several mergers and acquisition s, i.e. it acquired Abraham Co. before merging with Kuhn, Loeb Co., which was considered to be financially struggling. The resultant company, Lehman Brothers, Kuhn Loeb Inc. rose to become the fourth leading investment bank. Credit was given to Peterson for leading the company from dwindling performance to reputable profit margins in five consecutive years (HITC, 2008). Despite the company’s outstanding performance, there was mounting pressure from traders and bankers. This forced Peterson to appoint Lewis Glucksman as the company’s co-CEO in 1983. This was the beginning of management issues as the CEOs conflicted in terms of their management styles. Consequently, power pressure and poor performance of the company led to the ousting of Peterson, one of the firm’s best CEO. Unfortunately, upset bankers left the company, following management wrangles, which haunted the firm. Although Lehman Brothers had a strong competitive internal environment, it could not ove rcome the test of time. It was this pressure that compelled Glucksman to sell it to Shearson at $360 million in 1984. In 1988, the company’s merger with E.F. Hutton Co. bred Shearson Lehman Hutton Inc. (HITC, 2008). Due to diversification of several firms, most of them were spun off as the organization retained its original name as Lehman Brothers. The firm’s head offices at World Trade Center were destroyed by the 2001 terror attack, causing it to shift to Manhattan in 2002. The Company got intertwined into the American mortgage lending crisis, which ushered it to the world of bankruptcy in 2008. After it filed a bankruptcy petition, its assets were sold out to several firms like Barclays and Nomura among others.Advertising Looking for case study on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Business crisis circumstances According to financial analysts, the housing boom experienced in early 2003 was to haunt Lehman Brothers because of the financial decisions, which were adopted. As a result of the boom, Lehman Brothers ratified a decision that supported the purchase of five mortgage lenders, which included BNC Mortgage and Aurora Loan Services. Unlike other mortgage providers, Aurora allowed borrowing of cash without complete documentation from customers. The initial stages of the acquisition were quite encouraging as its revenues in the real estate business grew exponentially between 2004 and 2006. It is during this time that Lehman Brothers registered higher profits in real estate than asset management or any other form of banking investment. By 2006, Lehman Brothers had gathered approximately $146 billion, which translated into an increment of ten percent from the previous year. This trend was to continue up to 2007, when the company registered a historic net income of $4.2 billion, which was realized from total revenue of $19.3 billion (HITC, 2008). Company miscalculation By the year 2008, the company’s stock hit a new value of $86.1, which had not been witnessed throughout its history. This meant that Lehman Brothers enjoyed a market capitalization of nearly $60 billion. Nevertheless, there were tangible cracks in the housing market, leading to a rise in defaults, especially on subprime mortgages. After the first quarter of 2007, there were concerns over the high rate of mortgage defaults that was likely to affect the performance of Lehman Brothers (HITC, 2008). Nonetheless, the concern was followed by the firm’s record profit announcement. Lehman Brothers management, including the company’s financial officer, saw no need of getting alarmed by home delinquencies; they believed that the looming financial crisis was not going to affect their performance. Additionally, the CFO noted that the crisis within the subprime mortga ges was not going to affect the country’s economy. Lehman Brothers Downfall The credit crisis that started in August 2007 had significant impact on Lehman’s stability as its stocks registered a shocking drop on the stock market. As a result, the company was forced to react by retrenching 2,500 people, who worked in mortgage related sections. In addition, the firm closed down its BNC unit, due to the losses that were already visible, together with Aurora offices in three American states. Even as the U.S. government erected measures to tame the situation, Lehman Brothers continued to dominate the housing market (HITC, 2008). The firm gathered $85 billion in 2007, which was four times its shareholders’ equity and the leading in the market. This was realized when it underwrote several mortgage securities. While many people expected the company to act swiftly in containing the mortgage crisis towards the end of 2007, no serious action was implemented. Towards bankrup tcy Unlike other mortgage companies in the country, Lehman Brothers was surrounded by certain factors, which made it more vulnerable to the effects of the looming crisis in America. Its ratio of assets to shareholders’ equity reached thirty one percent in 2007, with enormous mortgage securities. Bear Stearns’ situation nearly collapsed in March 2008. This caused an alarm that resulted into a drop of up to 48% in Lehman’s status; many thought that Lehman was to follow suit as the second mortgage underwriter to fall (Fitzpatrick Thomson, 2011). Investors’ confidence in the company slightly increased in April 2008, through an issue of preferred stock, which favored Lehman’s shares. Nevertheless, the trend did not last as managers got concerned with the firm’s mortgage portfolio. Lehman Brothers recorded a loss of $2.8 billion on June 9 2008. This was the first loss, which the company had registered, from the time it was spun off. Despite this loss, the company’s management announced that a total of $6 billion had been collected from the organization’s investors. Furthermore, its liquidity pool had risen to a total of $45 billion as its gross assets dropped with a margin of $147 billion (Fitzpatrick Thomson, 2011). Reaction to the crisis Lehman’s response to the crisis was considered to be negligible and too late. This included several overtures, which were made to its prospective partners during summer. While these efforts were on, its stock fell by 77% in September 2008, amid poor performance of several markets around the world. It was during this time that investors put the company’s management to task over its intentions to remain independent (Fitzpatrick Thomson, 2011). Moreover, the management became hopeless when Korea Development Bank put on hold its pursued interest to purchase a stake of Lehman Brothers. This development was quite devastating; the company registered a 45% fall in it s stalks and a further 66% of credit-default swaps. As a result, several hedge fund clients cut links with the company, together with short-term creditors. Its fiscal performance, which was announced on September 10 2008, emphasized the fact that its financial base was quite fragile due to the unfolding events within the global financial market. This had led to a $3.9 billion loss and $5.6 billion write-down. In addition, the company’s management saw the need of restructuring its business in order to counteract the effects of the crisis, which were threatening the survival of the firm. This was followed by a decision to evaluate the company’s credit ratings and a suggestion to sell its stake to a strategic investor to avoid a fall in its rating. Unfortunately, these efforts saw the company drop to a 42% in its stock, in twenty four hours (Williams, 2010). A series of the company’s unsuccessful plans left it with $1 billion by the end of the week. One of the resc ue options was an agreement with Barclays PLC and Bank of America to oversee the takeover, but it did not go through. Having exhausted all it considered to be rescue strategies, Lehman Brothers declared bankruptcy, mid September, after registering a dismal performance and a drop of 93 % in its stocks (Williams, 2010). The collapse of Lehman Brothers was not an ordinary occurrence in the U.S. financial market and around the world. This was based on its market stake and influence in America and other countries. There were many unanswered questions about the collapse, with a section of observers questioning the government’s responsibility to support Lehman, as it had intervened in Bear Stearns in March 2008. The company lost up to $46 billion (Williams, 2010). Management Failure From the analysis of the case study above, it is evident that the collapse of Lehman Brothers was intertwined with a range of issues. While most financial firms suffered as a result of the looming global financial crisis, the role of the management in Lehman’s case was questionable. Simple management principles were violated, leading to a plunge of the firm’s stock and ultimate collapse in September 2008. This segment gives a critical analysis of the company’s management approach and how it promoted its demise (Delaney, 2011). The issue of excess leverage significantly affected Lehman Brothers. Under normal circumstances, financial leverage involves investing of a loan in order to realize as high rate of return as possible. What is obtained as the difference between the loan rate and the interest rate is referred to as the spread. It is quite common for banks to engage in borrowing of money from other financial institutions and settle their debts under a fixed interest rate. For the case of Lehman Brothers, it is evident to note that the firm was overleveraged. The company’s management agreed to borrow money from other sources to invest in numerous proje cts, with the main one being in mortgage securities. Nevertheless, it was realized that most of the collateral assets had a lower value than expected (Delaney, 2011). As a result, mortgage-backed securities became valueless while the firm’s spread experienced a shift from positive to negative. The company experienced good performance, being ranked among leading American firms for many years. The company further started with a balance sheet, which showed that it owned resources, which were more than what it owed. This was quite encouraging as it indicated its stability and opportunities for making profits. However, this trend did not last forever as Lehman owed more than what it owned; an indication of business collapse. Many expected swift measures from the management, which instead took the matter lightly, noting that the global financial crisis was not going to affect the firm (Delaney, 2011). This assumption turned out to haunt the management before handing it over to the world of bankruptcy. The failure to tame the situation was a demonstration of management failure, since managers are charged with giving direction and setting pace in the business world (Jones George, 2007). Additionally, the company failed to respond on debt-to-equity ratios. Under normal operations, these ratios denote the value of a company’s debt, measured against a corresponding dollar of equity. This ratio is regulated by the Federal Insurance Corporation, which favors a value of 10:1. It is important to note that FDIC does not regulate investment banks, causing them to maintain high ratios. For instance, Lehman Brothers registered a ratio of 60:1, implying a low cushion value. Due to lack of intervention, such high ratios for the company implied that bankruptcy was inevitable in the case (Barsch, 2012). The compensation plan, which was crafted by Lehman’s management, further spelt doom for the success of the company. In most cases, bonuses and compensation sche mes arose when the organization’s performance was at its peak. However, investors and employees were not asked to give any money back to the firm (Barsch, 2012). In other words, the scheme was keen to reward high levels of risk taking, which generated high returns, but failed to take similar measures as a result of losses and low returns. The management did not critically look into the implications of the scheme before implementing it. Besides general management failure, the contribution of individual CEOs also led to the collapse of the firm. A good example is Richard J. Fuld, who worked for the company for years, rising to become the firm’s chairman. He was well known as a risk taker and had high expectations of loyalty from his staff. He was brutal and constantly intimidated other employees of the company. Because of his personality, Fuld rejected being advised by his senior executives. He believed in himself and ignored other people, serving Lehman solely from his office. This management style severely haunted the company as it bred miscalculation of the impact of the financial crisis for mitigation measures to be erected (Barsch, 2012). The company’s Board of Directors did not have enough experience in overseeing an investment company, which had diverse goals in the financial market. To make matters worse, the board had only one member from outside who had formal knowledge and background of the financial sector. As a result, it was impossible for the company to consider a halt of portfolio expansion in the real estate industry and unpromising securities. The functioning of the risk committee also showed how incompetent the board was. Between 2002 and 2007, the committee did not see the need for frequent meeting as it met twice a year (Ryback, 2012). This was quite daring as the global financial crisis was just around the corner. Contrary to the expectations of many, the board endorsed a remuneration package of about $500 million to Ri chard J. Fuld. Fuld did not see any problem with the move despite the fact that Lehman Brothers was grasping for its last moments. A few days before the company announced a loss of approximately $4 billion, Mr. Fuld commended the entire board for its support. He lacked the interests of the firm at heart to have accepted such a hefty package when the firm was headed for a downfall. To add insult on the company’s incompetent management, Richard J. Fuld did not see the need of selling the firm at a discount in 2007, following Hank Paulson’s recommendations. He believed that the firm was fit to be sold off at a premium. As if this was not enough, the management unanimously agreed to distribute shares to its employees in early 2008, hopping to realize better prices, which would generate higher payouts (Ryback, 2012). This was the least that the management could offer, based on the global economic status and performance of the firm. Management Solutions Although the collapse of Lehman Brothers was partly attributed to the global financial crisis, the management was also responsible for failing to respond swiftly. This means that the management had a role of implementing certain measures capable of stabilizing the situation and save the firm from liquidation (Jones George, 2004). As mentioned above, the leverage level of Lehman was too high. Consequently, the firm got addicted to debts, putting the bank at the edge of collapsing. The most appropriate remedy for this situation was the implementation of borrowing control measures to tame the debt-to-equity ratio (Jones George, 2007). Lehman Brothers’ management had the most significant role in taming the situation. It needed a market oversight team to actively address the changing financial dynamics in the market. Although the risk committee was to advise the firm’s management, this was not easy due to its inefficiency and inactiveness; it met twice annually between 2000 and 2007. Harmoniz ed management was equally necessary to sail through the stormy financial market. This was not the case as senior executives like Fuld made independent decisions and remained defiant to his senior managers. Additionally, it was necessary for the firm to hire competent managers and strategic analysts to study market trends and make informed decisions (Jones George, 2004). This would have saved the company from cases of doling of the company’s shares and unwarranted payment of hefty packages to its managers, when it needed money to save it. Conclusion From the above case analysis of Lehman Brothers, it is evident that the management of an organization plays a major role in determining its performance. Based on decisions made, a firm can either thrive or crumble. For Lehman, the bankruptcy misfortune can largely be attributed to ineffective management, which was later coupled with the late 2000s financial crisis that rocked world markets. References Barsch, P. (2012). Marketing Lessons Learned from the Collapse of Lehman Brothers. Scribd. Web. Delaney, T. (2011). Lehman Brothers. Financial Training Partners. Web. Fitzpatrick, T., Thomson, J. (2011). How Well Does Bankruptcy Work When Large Financial Firms Fail? Some Lessons from Lehman Brothers. Economic Commentary, (23), 1-6. HITC. (2008). Lehman Brothers – A Brief History. Here is the City. Web. Jones, G., George, J. (2004). Essentials of Contemporary Management. New York City: McGraw-Hill/Irwin. Jones, G., George, J. (2007). Contemporary Management. New York City: McGraw-Hill/Irwin. Ryback, W. (2012). Lehman brothers: Too Big to Fail? Toronto Leadership Centre for Financial Sector Supervision. Web. Williams, M. (2010). Uncontrolled Risk: The Lessons of Lehman Brothers and How Systemic Risk Can Still Bring Down the World Financial System. New York City: McGraw-Hill Professional. This case study on Managing People and Organization part of organization behavior was written and submitted by user Angelica Pennington to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.

Why Did I Get Married Too

Why Did I Get Married Too Introduction â€Å"Why did I get married too† was released on 2nd April, 2010 in the United States of America. It is a drama comedy acted by four married couples going through marital challenges. They were proffessionals but their lives in marriage were quite challenging; the four wereTerry and Dianne, Gavin and Patricia, Angela and Marcus and, Sheila and Troy.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Why Did I Get Married Too specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The movie started with the four couples going for a retreat to Bahamas. At first, Patricia and Gavin were perceived to have been in the best marriage but at the end they broke up and Gavin died in an accident (IMDb 1). This movie is very appropriate for the married people and even young teens. The movie brings out the theme of marriage and finances clearly. It is interesting and full of suspense as the director is able to bring out many conflicts in marriages with in a short time.Dialogue between the characters is intensively used. However, this movie only targets the adults and only includes black Americans. Critics have claimed that the director did not take into account the economic recession and that the movie did not use the seting of exotic Bahamas appropriately (Tsai 1). An analysis of this movie revealed that it effectively showed effects of infidelity and importance of communication between a husband and a wife. Plot The movie started when four couples who had been friends for a long time went for a vacation in Bahamas. The movie started with Terry dribbling a ball in their living room when their young daughter started to describe what divorce was to her brother. Dianne and Terry looked at each other with amazement. At the Airport Dianne and Angela were chatting when Angela noticed that her husband Marcus was flirting with a clerk. She went straight ahead and confronted him. Sheila and Troy were the first to arrive at Bahamas and the y were excited to find out how beautiful Bahamas was. Patricia and Gavin were second to arrive in Bahamas. Third were Terry and Dianne. The arrival of Angela and Marcus at Bahamas drew attention from other people.Advertising Looking for essay on art and design? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Angela was too loud and all along seemed to have quarrels with her husband Marcus. She scolded Marcus and asked other people who were passing by if they knew her husband and she would give them two hundred dollars as a reward if they knew him. She wanted to prove to her husband that he was not famous at all. The gentlemen went to their own place at the beach while ladies also got to their place. Both groups talked about their marriages. Later on, Mike, the man who divorced Sheila some time back arrived at the scene (Perry 1). The second half of the movie was when the couples went back to their homes. Their marriages fault lines were seen in this scene. Each couple was going through a challenge and Gavin lost his life at the end while driving after a quarrel with Patricia (Hale 1). The movie shows the struggles wives and husbands go through. The movie is said to have a soap opera style especially with Sheila who is very emotional (Tsai 1). She had worked so hard for her second marriage with Troy to succeed. Troy on the other hand was offended because she exposed his financial struggles. He felt like others were undermining him and turned his anger to his wife Sheila (Perry 1). There was suspense throughout the movie, for example, when Terry moved out from his home and went to live in a new house. Dianne was desperate to get her husband only to find him with another girl. Terry mentioned her name and stated that she was pregnant. Suspense was created because we do not know what would be the reaction of Dianne if Terry was the father of the unborn child. Dianne relaxed when she heard that that girl had a boyf riend. There was also suspense when Patricia turned to be so wild and broke the furniture with a club. She broke glasses and smoked which was unbelievable because she had always been a role model. When Gavin was involved in an accident we did not know what would be Patricia’s reaction to this event and what she would do now that Gavin had died (Perry 1).Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Why Did I Get Married Too specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Character Analysis Patricia was the protagonist in this movie. She was a commander in their marriage with Gavin. She was a psychiatrist and more theoretical than practical. It was ironical that she advised other couples and even wrote a book about marriage whereas her marriage was going through hell. She was wise and asked Angela and Dianne to find all the good things in their husbands and write them down. Patricia was hard working because she wrote a book and was succe ssful in her career. She was abusive because she abused her husband by calling him a bitch. Patricia (Janet Jackson) has also acted in the movie, For Colored Girls where she plays a wife’s role which is similar to this movie (Farley 1). Gavin was very patient with Patricia and got silent on Patricia’s insults until he could not handle them any longer. This was when he became brutal by forcing Patricia to take beer. He was kind and supportive as he supported his wife financially and emotionally as she wrote the book but unfortunately she was not thankful. She wanted to take all the money during their divorce without recognizing all the efforts he had put into that project. He later became a victim of circumstances because their marital problems made him to be hit by a truck as he was driving after a serious conflict with Patricia. Gavin was also faithful because throughout their marriage, Patricia did not suspect him for being unfaithful (Perry 1). Angela was always yel ling at her husband Marcus. She was very honest and confronted Marcus every time there was a problem. For example, she literary confronted Marcus when she saw him from afar trying to take another woman’s cell phone number. She was humorous; she tried to imitate Patricia’s tone as she read her book. She was also humorous when Marcus asked her to stop drinking beer. She filled a glass and told Marcus to allow her to take her last time beer. Marcus was also humorous because as Angela had said in the first movie every time he said, â€Å"You know what I am saying?† (Perry 1) it always meant that he was telling a lie. He also had a funny facial expression. Critics say that the movie lacks dramatic arc, â€Å"at times the script seems the result of free association of automatic writing. Behaviors are often incongruous with the characters, and plots are in free fall† (Tsai 1). Perry also concentrates so much in unfaithfulness in marriages failing to strike a bal ance between other factors which affect marriages such as finances, in laws and responsibilities of husbands and wives while also including children (Tsai 1).Advertising Looking for essay on art and design? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More All the characters acted in the earlier movie, Why Did I Get Married where they played the same roles as in this movie. However at that time Troy was a Sherriff. This family movie has the same theme of marriage with Not Easily Broken which was directed by Bill Duke. The movie theme is on causes of conflict and I would call it, Marriage Conflicts. Camera and Background Music The camera is used to effectively in this movie by use of camera techniques. There are numerous close up shots which are used to create interest and suspense. They give details of the characters. There are also several nature shots which help to give details of the environment in Bahamas. The director used medium long shots with a balance at the beach where men were resting and chatting. This gave the viewer a clear background of the place. The director also used many medium shots especially in dialogues between two people. The characters dressing matches with the occasions in which they are in. At the beach they are in bright color clothes such as yellow, light green, white and pink which created an atmosphere of calmness (Literacy 1). The movie also had a short background music which went, â€Å"I am a married man, cant you understand?† which is repeated several times. It was composed specifically for this movie. It is important because it enhances the theme of marriage. Conclusion Why did I get Married too movie was set in Bahamas during four couples’ vacation and at Atlantic in their homes. Marriage conflicts, importance of communication and friendship are the main themes of this movie. The movie concentrates on infidelity failing to consider other factors that affect marriages such as children, in laws and finances. It is mostly enjoyed by adults and older teens. The movie is appropriate and effective because infidelity is one of the largest causes of divorce. Farley, Christopher. Why did I get Married Too. Janet Jackson Tackles Poetry in For Colored Girls, 2010. Web. ht tp://blogs.wsj.com/speakeasy/2010/11/02/janet-jackson-tackles-poetry-in-for-colored-girls/. Hale, Mike. At Couples Reunion, Laughs, Then Griefs. New York, 2010. Web. http://movies.nytimes.com/2010/04/03/movies/03tyler.html. IMDb. Why I Did I get Married Too. IMDb, 2010. Web. imdb.com/title/tt1391137/. Literacy. Visual Literacy. Portals, n.d. Web.. http://portals.studentnet.edu.au/literacy/minisites/sceggsdarlinghurstrevised/vliteracy/shots.htm. Perry, Tyler. Why Did I get Married too. Hollywood Screen, 2010. Hollywood. Tsai, Martin. Tyler Perrys Why Did I Get Married Too. NT, 2010. Web. nj.com/entertainment/index.ssf/2010/04/tyler_perrys_why_did_i_get_mar.html

Tibetan Silver

Tibetan Silver Tibetan Silver is the name given to the metal used in some jewelry available online, such as on eBay or via Amazon. These items typically ship from China. Have you ever wondered how much silver is in Tibetan Silver or about the chemical composition of Tibetan Silver? Would you be surprised to learn that this metal can be dangerous? Tibetan Silver is a silver-colored alloy consisting of copper with tin or nickel. Some items described as Tibetan Silver are cast iron that has been plated with the silver-colored metal. Most Tibetan Silver is copper with tin rather than copper with nickel because nickel causes skin reactions in many people. Health Hazards Ironically, the metal often contains other elements that are much more toxic than nickel. It is inadvisable for pregnant women or children to wear items made with Tibetan Silver because some of the items contain high levels of dangerous metals, including lead and arsenic. eBay issued a buyer warning so that bidders would be aware of the metallurgical testing conducted on Tibetan Silver items and the possible toxicity of these items. In six of seven items that were analyzed using x-ray fluorescence, the primary metals in the Tibetan Silver were actually nickel, copper, and zinc. One item contained 1.3% arsenic and extremely high lead content of 54%. A separate sampling of items revealed comparable compositions, with trace amounts of chromium, aluminum, tin, gold, and lead, although in that study, all of the samples contained acceptable levels of lead. Note that not all items contain toxic levels of heavy metals. The warning for pregnant women and children is intended to prevent accidental poisonings. Other Names Sometimes comparable metallurgical compositions have been called Nepalese silver, white metal, pewter, lead-free pewter, base metal, or simply tin alloy. In the past, there was an alloy called Tibetan Silver that actually did contain the element silver. Some vintage Tibetan silver is sterling silver, which is 92.5% silver. The remaining percent could be any combination of other metals, although usually, it is copper or tin.

Harriet Beecher Stowe Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Harriet Beecher Stowe - Essay Example Harriet Beecher Stowe was one of the most famous female abolitionists and authors of the 19th century. Her writings fueled the anti-slavery movements before the Civil War. She used religion and family to connect with her white readers and relate the African American community to them. Stowe later housed fugitives on the Underground Railroad while living with her husband in Brunswick, Maine. She wrote and expressed her opinions at a time when women were repressed. She had no rights to vote or hold office but she made her opinions known and began the public debate on slavery and abolition. Her upbringing contributed to her anti-slavery feelings. Her father was a preacher and he encouraged his children to take action to better society. She was the middle child and had 11 siblings. Six of her brothers became ministers and her older sister pioneered education for women in the early nineteenth century. Stowe had a very self-righteous upbringing from her parents and this encouraged her to take a stand for social justice.

Mousetrap dump truck and separation system project Essay

Mousetrap dump truck and separation system project - Essay Example The goal of the minor project is establishing innovation and creativity by using a critical way of problem solving. It aims at designing a dump truck –truck used for transportation of loose material. A distinctive dump truck is characterised by an open-box bed hinged at the back, the front can be lifted allowing deposition of the contents on the ground at the delivery site. The core concept of task two is to utilize energy of a mousetrap to make the device mobile for 5 metres in a straight line. The second section of the project is the separation box which is supposed to separate the different sizes of the balls when hit. However, the description of the project is to utilize light, simple, flexible, inexpensive and available materials. There are various materials that the group used to design a lightweight truck model e.g. light carton, disks, BBQ sticks, light fishing line, bottle tops, mouse trap, rubber band and small pieces of cloth hangers. In addition, the group used three materials in designing the separation box: cartoon, BBQ sticks and wooden sticks. Tools involved: glow gun, balloons and tape. In a nutshell, the project should demonstrate innovation of a lightweight truck in the simplest way possible. The concept is to capture energy from a mouse trap to allow it to move for 5minutes along a straight path. The box holding the balls is strateg ically placed high above the body to allow the balls to drop in the separation box. Pieces of cloth hangers are used to improve flexibility. Initially, the project had three possible designs. Numerous factors had to be considered to adopt one as the final plan. Figure 4.1 shows the first design –mouse trap car-the second design consisted of a large coca cola bottle. Figure 4.2 is an illustration of the final design. Before settling for the design in figure 4.2, several tests were directed to eradicate all flaws