Bayeux Tapestry essays

Bayeux Tapestry essays William, Duke of Normandy was promised by his cousin, King Edward to be the next King of England after the Death of King Edward, but instead Harold Godwinson took the throne. Harold Godwinson was the second most powerful man in England and an advisor to Edward. Harold and Edward became brothers-in-law when the king married Harold's sister. With Harold becoming an even more powerful man and becoming an in-law to King Edward, Harold was a strong candidate for the throne. His claim was strengthened when the dying Edward supposedly uttered "Into Harold's hands I commit my Kingdom." With this kingly endorsement, the Witan (the council of royal advisors) unanimously selected Harold as King. Harolds coronation took place the same day as Edward's burial. William also had a strong argument on taking the throne, he was promised by his cousin King Edward. The day that Harold was crowned King William viewed that event as defying King Edwards wishes and a sacred oath. When Harold defied this oath, William gained the support of the Pope who excommunicated Harold. The last person claiming the right to the throne was Harald Hardrada, King of Norway, he was promised the throne by Harthcut (ruler of England before Edward) saying that who ever dies first must give their land to the other. Hardrada however was busy fighting for the rule of Denmark so he couldnt claim England. William took control of England in 1066 and ruled until his death in 1087. Made in 1067, it was commissioned by the half-brother of William, Duke of Normandy, Bishop Odo. It was built to celebrate the victory William had over Harold Godwinson in the battle of Hastings on the 25th of September 1066. The tapestry is 70 meters long and 50 cm wide. In the first half of the tapestry William wanted to show how he was destined to take the throne of England. After that the tapestry showed how William ...

World Hunger Poverty Essay Example

World Hunger Poverty Essay Example World Hunger Poverty Essay World Hunger Poverty Essay World Hunger and Poverty Sara White I. Introduction: Statement of the issue to be discussed. World hunger and poverty concerns certainly are no new issues in our society. We often hear about people’s desire to solve world hunger, or to be able to feed the world and help alleviate the suffering associated with it. There are many organizations that collect money to help feed children and their families in poor, undeveloped countries. We are subjected to commercials on television that show us children all over the world that are suffering from hunger. We see their pain and our emotions take over; we then want to help feed the world by sending our monthly donation. How much more do we really think about the issue of world hunger after the commercial goes off? The United States is such a developed and plentiful nation, that it is so hard for me to imagine why are there so many hungry people still in the world today. There are many reasons we can think of why world hunger may exist, but poverty is the number one cause of hunger. Poor people cannot afford to buy food so they are the ones that suffer from hunger that leads to deficiencies, diseases, and death. People are not hungry because the population is growing so fast that food is becoming scarce, but simply because they cannot afford it. Food may be scarce, but it is international trade, economic policies and the control of land that have lead to immense poverty and hunger and therefore less access to food, not the growth in population leading to a lack of food. The majority of the world’s people and nations are in a state of poverty. Over 9 million people worldwide each year die from hunger and malnutrition. Over 5 million of those are children. So why are there so many people in poverty and starving today and what can be done to help overcome the situation? II. Description of more than one side of the issue supported by relevant and multiple sources of information. Poverty and hunger are a concern to many people in the United States and in other countries. It is hard to understand why there is still so much poverty and hunger in the world today with so many organizations trying to help fight it. I have defined some of the reasons why poverty and hunger still exist in our society today. In our society, food is seen as a commodity. Farmers are just like anyone else in business, they need to make a living, so they sell their product for money. Their crop is their livelihood so they cannot be expected to give it away. To the farmers growing the product, food is a commodity; they expect payment for the food they grow. We would not expect Old Navy to manufacture clothes, Reebok to manufacture sneakers, or Dell to provide computers for those people that do not earn enough money to pay for these items. (Shah, Anup, Causes of hunger). The issue of land rights and ownership is another reason that could contribute to poverty for non-land owners or ones that may be dictated to by the government exactly what they can plant on their land. The ones that own the land get to control what is grown on it and can get their share of the production through rent or crop. This can be extremely devastating to the farmer because it can keep him in poverty even though he is doing the work to grow the crop. This is especially a problem in third world countries because they are used to supply wealthier countries with cheap agricultural products. The wealthier countries are therefore controlling the fate of poverty in these other countries. If the workers in the less developed countries are not paid fairly they will continue in poverty. The wealthy are the ones with the power. Some wealthier countries have purchased land in poorer countries to grow produce but it is not to offer assistance for the poor but to retain their own food security. The wealthy are also the greedy ones. (Shah, Anup, Solving world hunger). The diversion of land that is used to grow non-productive crops is believed to be a contributor to poverty because this land could be used to grow more crops to help feed hungry people. Instead much land is used to grow non-productive crops such as cotton, sisal, flowers, tea, tobacco, sugar cane, and cocoa. These items can be profitable for farmers but take away from the food production. Also much farmland is used to grow grain to feed livestock. In a wealthy country, as the United States, beef is a big market, so half the water and half of the grain grown is used to feed the livestock. The grain would be much more beneficial for feeding humans and help to solve hunger, but wealthy people prefer meat and will continue to buy it as long as they can afford to. (Shah, Anup, Solving world hunger). The growing of crops for biofuels is often blamed for a food shortage that is also linked to the hunger problem. Even though using biofuels is a way to help reduce the greenhouse gas emissions in our environment they may be harmful to our food and water supplies. Growing biofuels requires a lot of land and water. We already have a shortage of food and water so by diverting land use and our water supply to grow biofuels it is believed that this will lead to biofuels being the largest competitor of food causing an increase in global food prices. (France- Presse, Agence). The United States offers assistance to many countries in need of food through the design of four different programs. These programs offer assistance through donations and have certain guidelines that the recipient countries must adhere to including not being involved in any kind of civil or international conflict, have positive plans for freedom, political and civil rights, and objectives for sustainability. Food aid shows a good gesture in caring and helping the poor and hungry but food aid, when not for emergency relief, can actually be very destructive on the economy of the recipient nation and contribute to more hunger and poverty because they become dependent on it. USDA). Global change is still another reason blamed for lack of food. The frequent climate changes we have been experiencing and the expected effects from climate change in the future can have a large impact on crops. Scientists have predicted that due to global warming in our environment there will likely be more carbon dioxide in our atmosphere, leading to an increase in pollution that can make our soil and water harmful. This wi ll lead to the impact it will have on crops and on animals that in turn have an impact on the food source for humans. With the climate change can bring more droughts, hurricanes, tornados, and other odd weather scenarios that can cause an in increase in hunger and poverty due to a poor crop yield. (U. S. Global Change Research Information Office). Some people believe that by increasing the food production through growing genetically modified foods that it is possible to produce enough food to feed the world. It is believed that by increasing the amount of crops grown on existing farmland it will help the farmers grow better crops and increase their income at the same time. This is believed to help feed the world and bring poor farmers out of poverty. (Balkin, Karen, pgs 189-194). These genetically modified crops are engineered in a laboratory to create rapidly growing plants that are drought resistant, produce their own pesticides, and can be produced to contain adequate nutrients needed for a healthy diet. This sounds like a great solution, however this process can be very lengthy and costly to start and the effects that these genetically grown plants will have on humans is unknown at this time. (Whitman, Deborah, B. ). III. Clear, concise statements of your position of the issue. I believe poverty mainly comes from poverty; the poor stay poor. The poor have no money to buy food and usually little or no resources in order to grow their own food so hunger is also caused by poverty. There are many other things that may contribute to the hunger and poverty situation, but when you start at the bottom it is hard for your situation to change without something drastic happening to help pull you above the poverty line. I believe that families try to pay first for their home, or place of shelter, and their utilities and use the remainder of their money, if there is any, to buy food. They buy the cheapest foods possible and usually do not get the correct nutrients they need in order to stay healthy. I believe that there must be a worldwide acceptance and implementation of food as a basic human right. It is my Christian belief that it is my responsibility to help others in need. People that have plenty and more than plenty should feel the need to share with others. I cannot imagine my children being hungry and no one helping me to get them food. I do believe that food aid is only a temporary solution though. I believe that education is definitely the answer to solving poverty and world hunger, especially, for third world countries, and in any place in the United States that does not have adequate food to feed their communities. I strongly believe the way to educate these people in poverty is through mission work. It is the best alternative rather than trying to get the government to give aid for supplies. The U. S. has given much food aid to other countries, but those countries need education on how to grow their own food so they can continue to eat. Many of those countries will need wells dug for them and someone to teach them farming techniques. These poverty-stricken countries will continue in poverty if they are not given the adequate supplies and skills needed in order to produce the food themselves. Tackling hunger by providing charitable food aid and increasing food production are just not the answers for solving either of these issues. Many people buy the cheapest foods possible in order to feed their families. This often results in foods that do not provide the nutrients and vitamins needed in order to keep them healthy. So, I believe we should also be conscious of the health care costs that arise due to malnutrition. In the United States this alone can raise health care costs tremendously. In many third world countries, health care is a luxury that would probably not even be available to the poor. If they cannot afford to buy food, they certainly could not afford health care. IV. Discussion of your position supported by relevant and multiple sources of information. Poverty is when someone lacks adequate income and lacks the resources and means of feeding their families and providing them with the basic human needs. Poverty can be contributed to by many different means but poverty is the number one reason of hunger. People simply cannot afford to purchase food and do not have the means to grow their own food. (World Hunger Education Services). Poverty is the ruin of the poor. (Life Application Study Bible, Proverbs 10:15) Being of Christian faith, I believe that the Bible is the word from God and that we should obey it. There are many passages in the Bible that give us guidance about helping those in hunger and poverty. In 2 Corinthians verse 9 and Proverbs 22:9, God talks about being a cheerful giver and by giving to the poor it is taking care of his people and the giver will be blessed for his generosity and compassion for the distribution of food and other resources. In Proverbs 31:9, he tells us to speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy. In Psalms 37:25, he tells us yet I have never seen the righteous forsaken or their children begging bread. Psalms 26, They are always generous and lend freely; their children will be blessed. In Ezekiel 18:17, he talks about what a righteous man does, gives his food to the hungry and provides clothes for the naked. In Acts 9:26, it tells about Dorcas and how she made an enormous impact on her community by always doing good and helping the poor. We as Christians should obey Gods word and help those in hunger and poverty. Our help really can make a difference to these people. (Life Application Study Bible) Even in our Government, we have people that have shown faith by wanting to create programs for those in hunger and poverty based on Gods word. Former Senator of North Carolina, John Edwards, and current Senator of Kansas, Sam Brownback, both have shown a strong sense of compassion for the poverty-stricken. They both have made it known that by their faith they feel that Americans should focus on helping the poverty issue in desperate regions of the world. They have both sponsored programs that give second chances including educating people to help them rise above poverty. Edwards knew that Americans could unite in times of desperation when they showed compassion for the gulf coast community after being hit by Hurricane Katrina. His vision was to eliminate poverty within thirty years, but it could cost billions to do it. He stated, How we respond to the fact that millions among us live in poverty says everything about the character of America. Brownback is a strong supporter of a faith based program on rebuilding the culture and the family and believes in finding solutions for poverty for the dignity of the people. When we have people in our government that are believers in faith, I think it will help our country to help others. When we stop helping others and let them suffer from hunger and poverty, I believe it will be the demise of our wonderful country. (Roush, Margaret, pages 19-22). We know that our government offers many programs that help feed the hungry and try to administer solutions for poverty and hunger, but in many countries Americans are limited to what they can do to help. That is when missionaries can step in and offer solutions to the poor and hungry. Missionaries are able to teach people how to become more in dependent, teach farming techniques, and how to use the resources that are available to them. Missionaries can change the lives of people in poor third world countries by teaching them about God and this can change their outlook and attitudes and then help them gain a way out of poverty. When they are able to grow their own food, they will feel less dependent on other countries. (Anderson, Kerby). The effects of poverty and hunger on the health of people can be devastating. Malnutrition can lead to an increase in infections and common illnesses. It can also lead to high mortality rates in infants and impediments in development for children that lead to problems beyond food and income. The condition can affect generations of people in these communities. That is why it is so important to help get them educated about ways to become independent and not rely on other people to feed them. Once they are able to grow food to feed their families and make adequate income to live they can become a sustainable community. (Kates, Robert, W. ). V. Questions that have arisen as you researched the issues and information you need to understand this issue better. As I was researching hunger and poverty I came across a few topics that I had not thought of before. A global food crisis? It is quite unbelievable, yet scary, to think that we could actually ever experience a global food crisis, especially in the United States. I had believed that the food and hunger situation would get better with time, not worse. Since I have been researching I have discovered predictions on a food crisis in the near future, and which may have already begun. (The American Dream). I also discovered that scientific evidence shows that we need to commit more to sustainable farming methods, called agroecology. We need to support local farmers. I was beginning to believe that genetically modified foods were the best method of producing better food more quickly. (US Working Group on the Food Crisis). I also discovered that it is bad enough the amount of food that is wasted, but also what the environmental impacts are from food waste that can lead to harmful effects on the soil. Spoiled foods can create, methane, one of the most harmful greenhouse gases, that contributes to climate change. Food waste can also lead to an increase in our landfills, and an increase in trash delivery trucks that uses more gas and causes more pollution in our environments. Wasted food also means wasted water, chemicals, fertilizers, and pesticides that was used to grow that product. I never imagined the impacts that wasted food had on our environment. We should definitely clean our plates! (CBC News). VI. Concise summary statement restating the issue, your position, and the essential evidence that supports your position. I believe there is hunger and poverty all around us. I believe that many people are truly concerned about people that are hungry and do contribute to different organizations to offer help, but I think very few really take the time to consider solutions to actually solving the problems. We do need and can appreciate the food aid that is offered to people in poverty but we can see that it is not the answer to solving the problem; it is only a temporary fix. We must work together to provide the people in need our support in educating them in sustainable farming methods so they may become independent in supporting their families with food and adequate incomes in order to live a healthy sustainable life. The more people we educate on sustainable farming methods, the more food there will be on our planet. I believe Christians should pray about the situation and do as much mission work as possible to help others in need. We should show compassion for those that are hungry and not able to purchase food for their families. I believe we should think more about the food we waste and the things we purchase, such as cigarettes, that are made from crops grown on land that could be used to grow food. We need to pull together so that we can try to prevent an unwanted food crisis in our environment. VII. Literature cited. 2011 World Hunger and Poverty Facts and Statistics. World Hunger Education Services. 4 Nov. 2011. . Anderson, Kerby. World Hunger. Leadership University. 29 Oct. 2011. . Balkin, Karen. Poverty Opposing Viewpoints. Farmington Hills, MI: Greenhaven Press, 2004. Can Sustainable Agriculture Feed the World?. US Working Group on the Food Crisis. 3 Nov. 2011. . Food Aid. United States Department of Agriculture. 26 Oct. 2011. 10 Nov. 2011. . Food Crisis 2011? 14 Disturbing Facts That Make You Wonder If The Coming Global Food Shortage Has Already Begun. The American Dream. 28 Oct. 2011. Food waste has environmental impact: scientists. CBC News. 25 Nov. 2009. 3 Nov. 2011. . France-Presse, Agence. Water for biofuels or food?. COSMOS Magazine. 17 Aug. 2007. 3 Nov. 2011. . Hunger Information. Freedom from Hunger. 2000. 29 Oct. 2011. . Kates, Robert W. CONSEQUENCES. U. S. Global Change Research Information Office. 1996. 25 Oct. 2011. . Life Application Study Bible. Wheaton, IL: Tyndale Publishers, Inc. , 1991. Roush, Margaret. The Reference Shelf U. S. National Debate Topic 2009-2010 Social Services for the Poor. New York, NY: H. W. Wilson Company, 2009. Shah, Anup. Causes of Hunger are related to Poverty. Global Issues. 3 Oct. 2010. 20 Oct. 2011. . Shah, Anup. Solving World Hunger Means Solving World Poverty. Global Issues. 24 Oct. 2010. 20 Oct. 2011. . Whitman, Deborah B. Genetically Modified Foods: Harmful or Helpful?. ProQuest. Apr. 2000. 3 Nov. 2011. .

Marketing Strategy Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words - 3

Marketing Strategy - Essay Example The customer has become very choosy and thus he relies more on the communication messages that are put up on the web and other media forms, rather than relying on the TV and newspaper advertising which are some aspects that are a thing of the past (Palser 2007). The customer becomes active nowadays when he realizes that the Internet is a potent force and anything that is put up on it will surely make a huge difference within his life. Also there have other forms of advertising which have literally changed the face of the conventional ways of reaching to the intended target audience. These include the transit advertising forms, the street and pole signs, the road branding techniques, the balloon advertising and so on and so forth (Ha 2003). What all these advertising methods have brought forward is the fact that the customer has become very educated and that he does not need to have a TV or a newspaper to access details about the brand or service which is being highlighted, from the domains of the client in essence. The customer now knows that if he has missed TV and newspaper advertising, he can most definitely go on the web and easily access the same. He can go outdoors and see the street signs and hoardings and thus be in line with whatever is being offered to him all this while. The death of TV and newspaper advertising has happened over a period of time, and not in an overnight fashion (Stoff 2008). This has meant that the TV and newspaper owners had started to understand that their respective mediums have lost the battle as compared to the newer media outlets and methodologies which were making serious mark on the consumers’ minds. What is even more interesting is the fact that the consumers have now realized that the power of the contemporary forms of advertising within their lives has become very significant and that they would rely on

Criminal behavior and behavior disorders Research Paper

Criminal behavior and behavior disorders - Research Paper Example What people eat and take into their bodies may control their behaviors. In some instances, excessive amounts of harmful substances such as food dyes and artificial colors and flavors seem to provoke hostile, impulsive, and otherwise antisocial behaviors. Vitamin deficiency and dependency can also have an effect on behavior; studies show that a major problem proportion of all schizophrenics and children with learning and behavioral disorders are dependent on vitamins B3 and B6. Another suspected nutritional influence on behavior is a diet high in sugar and carbohydrates. Diets high in sugar and carbohydrate have been linked to violence, high aggression, and associated with attention span deficiencies. Research shows that among adolescent males, iron deficiency is directly associated with aggressive behavior. Furthermore, one study found that iron deficiency was nearly twice as prevalent in a group of incarcerated adolescents as among their non- incarcerated peers. Research has also li nked hypoglycemia to outbursts of antisocial behavior and violence. These bio-criminologists, who believe that food and crime are associated, think that if diet can be improved then the frequency or violent behavior would be reduced. Biosocial theorists also have been looking at the link between hormonal levels and violent behavior. Hormones exert a strong influence on behavior testosterone, and other androgens, are probably the most important hormones in criminology. Testosterone has been related to aggressive criminal behavior in a number of studies, almost as many as those linking crime to the female menstrual cycle. It is believed that high levels of testosterone reduce a persons social integration, making them more of a loner, and freeing them up to deviate from societys norms. Female menstrual cycles have been linked to irritability, aggression, and a patterned increase in hostility. Recent studies have linked dangerous

New Testament Stories Essay Example for Free

New Testament Stories Essay In the New Testament it is stated that after the capturing of John, Jesus went to the Galilee. The story about John’s arrest is not stated until considerably later in connection with his death. He was arrested at the end of his report of John’s preaching it is only simply stated and Jesus returned in the power of the Spirit into Galilee. How much time had elapsed between the temptation and the return to Galilee, and what Jesus had been doing in the meantime is not stated in the testament. However the Fourth Gospel, which ignores both the baptism and the temptation, says that on the day after John’s testimony to Jesus at the Jordan he repeated it in the hearing of two of his disciples (In 1:35-42), one of whom was Andrew of Bethsaida in Galilee, and that Andrew thereupon brought his brother Simon to Jesus, who named him forthwith The Rock.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   After that, Jesus spent a few days in Capernaum with his mother and his brothers and his disciples and then returned to Jerusalem. But the entrance in Jerusalem was so silently the people believe that Jesus comes from the Golden Gate where it was believed the messiah would enter Jerusalem. After reaching there Jesus goes straight to the Temple, Herods Temple, and starts, without explanation, throwing over tables and driving the dove salesman and money changers from the courtyard of the Temple and stops people from bringing anything for sale through the Temple courts. The doves were used for sacrifices and the standard Greek or Roman money used by people had to be changed into special blessed Jewish or Tyrian money suitable for use.   Jesus tells everyone that Is it not written: My house will be called a house of prayer for all nations. But you have made it a den of robbers. The incident with the money changers is in all the Gospels.

Much Ado About Nothing Essay: Illusions in Much Ado About Nothing

Social Illusions in Much Ado About Nothing In Much Ado About Nothing, Shakespeare presents us with a romp through the realms of truth and illusion. The play is full of characters plotting and deceiving, for both noble and repugnant reasons. It is a study in the importance and necessity of illusion in our everyday lives, and shows how deeply ingrained deception is in our social behaviors. Everybody is involved in some kind of illusion, from the masked celebration to the unveiling of Hero's "cousin." Two of the major conspiracies in the play are the Claudio/Hero plotline and the Benedick/Beatrice story. Both of these situations contrast the multiplicitous nature of illusion. Claudio and Hero do not operate in the realm of illusion. Their intentions and emotions are easily visible, so much so that they come off as transparent. Their utter lack of ability to engage in social illusion makes them unbelievable: Claudi... ...e's dead, that things are finally resolved. By showing the deep tangles of illusion that exist in normal social relationships, Shakespeare reminds us of our dependence upon fabrication. He shows us that we both desire to be and have a deep need to deceive ourselves and others. It's why we watch plays and read literature. But Shakespeare also shows us the precarious balance of illusion in our lives and the ease with which we can lose our grip on reality and fiction. Much Ado About Nothing Essay: Illusions in Much Ado About Nothing Social Illusions in Much Ado About Nothing In Much Ado About Nothing, Shakespeare presents us with a romp through the realms of truth and illusion. The play is full of characters plotting and deceiving, for both noble and repugnant reasons. It is a study in the importance and necessity of illusion in our everyday lives, and shows how deeply ingrained deception is in our social behaviors. Everybody is involved in some kind of illusion, from the masked celebration to the unveiling of Hero's "cousin." Two of the major conspiracies in the play are the Claudio/Hero plotline and the Benedick/Beatrice story. Both of these situations contrast the multiplicitous nature of illusion. Claudio and Hero do not operate in the realm of illusion. Their intentions and emotions are easily visible, so much so that they come off as transparent. Their utter lack of ability to engage in social illusion makes them unbelievable: Claudi... ...e's dead, that things are finally resolved. By showing the deep tangles of illusion that exist in normal social relationships, Shakespeare reminds us of our dependence upon fabrication. He shows us that we both desire to be and have a deep need to deceive ourselves and others. It's why we watch plays and read literature. But Shakespeare also shows us the precarious balance of illusion in our lives and the ease with which we can lose our grip on reality and fiction.

Strategic Plan-Hertz

Strategic Plan for the Hertz Corporation February 18, 2011 Table of Contents Introduction of Team and Assignment4 Company Profile6 Mission Statement6 Vision and Values7 Economic conditions7 Strategic Analysis9 SWOC Analysis: Strengths10 SWOC Analysis: Weaknesses13 SWOC Analysis: Opportunities17 Internal Actions17 Opportunities18 SWOC Analysis: Challenges20 Dependence on the United States Automobile Industry20 Technological Changes and Advances20 Competitive Pressures21 Maintaining customer satisfaction and employee morale22 Merger Transitions22 Pressures to Go â€Å"Green†22 Expanding the â€Å"Global Footprint†23 STRATEGIC ISSUES25 Market Share Vehicle Rental25 Car Manufacturers25 Debt and Interest payments26 Technology26 Focus on Green27 Off Airport Rental27 People27 Equipment Business28 Summary29 Foundations of goals and strategic plan30 Increased Market Share30 Movement toward sustainable inventory30 Improve customer satisfaction by training and technology31 Dedication to Employees31 Drastically decrease debt owed32 Hertz Strategic Plan Implementation33 Mission33 Vision33 Strategies33 REFERENCES36 Introduction of Team and Assignment In recent years, leaders of American organizations have faced a multitude of challenges. The numerous trends and events that have occurred in the past two decades have affected both American society and business practices. Think of the influences the following events and trends have had on our government, communities, and public agencies: an aging and diversifying population; changes in the nature of families; dramatic shifts in federal and state responsibilities and funding priorities; the emergence of the poor as the largest group of poor Americans; fears about terrorism; the emergence of obesity as an important health concern; and a recent crippling recession (Bryson, 2004). Now think how American society would suffer if our government did not institute policies, programs, and plans in response to these conditions and crises. The same holds true for business organizations around the world. Organizations that want to survive, prosper, do good and important work must respond to the challenges the world presents (Bryson, 2004). In this environment, strategic plans are required to combat current challenges and provide future direction for business practices. Organizations that embark on strategic planning drastically increase their chances to endure current and future crises and are inherently closer to creating a sustainable organization that has public value. Students enrolled in the HR504 Strategic Planning class offered at the University of Scranton, were given the daunting assignment of creating a strategic plan for an organization of their choice. The strategic plan outlined in this paper was developed by the following students; Elisa Cosner, Patricia Dungan, Jacqueline Lombardo, and Mark Trautman (Team 3). These four students represent current and aspiring human resource professionals in pursuit of their Master’s degree in the field of Human Resources. The unique challenge of this assignment was to find a medium that could bring this geographically dispersed group of students together on a regular basis so they could collaborate and execute assignment responsibilities. The chosen medium was a chat forum called Meebo. Students met on Meebo for a minimum of thirty minutes every week, for a period of six weeks, to formulate, direct, and assign task responsibilities for their strategic planning efforts. When it came time to choose an organization for this assignment, Team 3 opted to conduct studies on struggling America business organizations that were experiencing financial difficulties and extreme pressures from both internal and external threats, ultimately choosing an organization that would unequivocally benefit from these strategic planning efforts. After much deliberation, Team 3 decided to formulate a strategic plan for the Hertz Corporation. The Hertz Corporation is the largest car rental brand in the world, with approximately 3,500 locations in the United States and 7,500 worldwide. Recent economic threats have caused double digit declines in car and rental equipment volumes, forced Hertz to drastically downsize its workforce and have seen the corporation experience hundreds of millions of dollars in net losses over the past three years. The strategic plan outlined hereafter, is an attempt by Team 3 to secure a strategic advantage for Hertz in the car rental marketplace, by mitigating the effects of environmental threats and severe economic influences, while at the same time utilizing the existing strengths of the organization and manipulating growth opportunities. Before we embark on this endeavor, we find it beneficial to provide a brief history of the Hertz Corporation. Company Profile Hertz Global Holdings (Hertz) operates vehicle and equipment rental businesses in the United States and Europe as well as global services for industries like construction, automobile manufacturing, railroad, power generation, and shipbuilding. The company employs 24,900 people and has company headquarters in Park Ridge, New Jersey. Hertz’s businesses are separated into two divisions. The Car Rental division, Hertz, which operates ental facilities near airports, central business districts, and suburban areas of cities, and also retails and leases, used cars in the United States and France where associates accept reservations for car rentals at approximately 8,000 locations in approximately 145 countries. The Equipment Rental division, Hertz Equipment Rental Corporation (HERC), rents earthmoving equipment, material handling equipment, aerial equipment, el ectric equipment, compressors and generators, and construction-related vehicles and tools. The Equipment Rental division also offers claim management services for both divisions investigating and negotiating various claims including bodily injury, property damage, and general and product liability for its customers. Mission Statement The mission at Hertz is to be the most customer focused, cost efficient vehicle and equipment rental/leasing company in every market we serve. We will strengthen our leading worldwide positions through a shared-value culture of employee and partner involvement by making strategic investments in our brand, people and products. The focus of everything we do will be on continuously improving shareholder value. Vision and Values Hertz has a vision to be the first choice brand for vehicle and equipment rental/leasing and total mobility solutions. In order to achieve this vision, Hertz, its employees and subsidiaries will adhere to the values of Integrity, Transparency, Continuous Improvement, Diversity, Passion, Commitment, Teamwork and Accountability. Economic conditions The current recession in the United States has adversely affected almost all domestic organizations, with Hertz being no exception. The uncertainty of current economic conditions has lead to serious revenue instability for Hertz. In 2009, Hertz experienced the most difficult macro-economic conditions in its 91 year history. Revenues were down 1. 4 billion from the previous year, and overall Hertz experienced a net loss of $126 million. A great portion of these conditions can be attributable to Americans traveling less. In should be of no surprise that car and equipment rental companies are significantly influenced by general economic conditions. One of the many economic challenges facing Hertz is the organizations dependence on drastically reducing operating costs. Hertz has been successful at doing this, but this success could have potential consequences. By drastically reducing its workforce, Hertz jeopardizes customer satisfaction levels and employee morale. In addition, Hertz’s current indebtedness has presented the following challenges to its operations: the organization is now increasingly vulnerable to adverse economic and industry conditions, they are at a competitive disadvantage to any competitors with significantly less debt, inflexibility in planning for and reacting to changing conditions in their business and industry, limited ability to react to competitive pressures, and it is increasing difficult to carry out capital spending that is necessary and important to Hertz’ growth strategy to improve operating margins. According to the Hertz 2009 Annual Report, the company recorded revenues of $8,525. 1 million during FY2008 which was 1. 8% decrease from 2007. The operating profit in FY2008 was $631. 2 million, a decrease of 50% compared to 2007. The net loss was $1,206. 7 million in FY2008, compared to the net profit of $265 million in 2007. Despite this, Hertz emerged from the 2009 recession a more efficient, customer focused company that is poised for strong revenue growth. Costs were reduced by over $1. billion since 2007, strategic plans to further improve service have been implemented, and in 2009, new business opportunities were developed. As a result, over $170 million of incremental revenues have been generated, the consolidated operating margin for 2009 was equal to 2008, and the margin for worldwide car rental increased to 7. 8%. Going forward Hertz will focus on costs, service and revenues combined with improving conditions in our car and equipment rental businesses. Hertz is expecting significant margin expansion and increased shareholder value. Strategic Analysis Subjects Employees Equipment dealers (Ford, John Deere) Players Board of Directors Senior Management Shareholders Customers Lenders Crowd Government Authorities (Airports to environmental matters) Franchises Context Setters Subordinated debt holders Subjects Employees Equipment dealers (Ford, John Deere) Players Board of Directors Senior Management Shareholders Customers Lenders Crowd Government Authorities (Airports to environmental matters) Franchises Context Setters Subordinated debt holders Subjects: have interest but little power Context setters: have power but little direct interest Crowd: Stakeholders with little interest or power Players: have interest and power Power versus Interest Grid, used to array stakeholders in the organization and the stakeholder’s power to affect the organizations future. In Hertz case, as a largely leveraged organization this analysis can prove telling as those with power may be more self-interested than in the game for the long term health of the organization. SWOC Analysis: Strengths * Strong Market Presence Strong Name Recognition * Strong Global Presence * Strong Diversification * Effective Cost Containment * Good Business Partnerships * Entrepreneurial culture * Recent Acquisitions * Agile * Our Employees * Novel Services * Variety Offered Hertz Global strengths include the company’s strong presence in the rental car and equipment market and strong name recognition as they remain the number one airport car rental provider in the United States. The company also has a strong global presence with outlets in Europe, North America, Latin America, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, Africa and the Middle East. Hertz’s strong diversification of businesses, products, and market protects the company offering a long-term competitive advantage through difficult times. Hertz is poised to serve every type of customer in the market including business accounts, hourly renters, budget travelers, and multi-month rental customers. Hertz continues to lead the industry in cost management and containment through lean strategic plans like fleet management, back-office reengineering, and organizational redesign. A good example of the company’s ongoing success recovering its financial performance is the refinancing $3. 2 billion of the U. S. fleet debt one year ahead of schedule with pricing comparable to 2005 rates. In addition, $990 million of capital was raised through a successful convertible debt and equity transaction. Efforts helped the company emerge from a difficult year in 2009 as leaner and more focused and Hertz is expecting higher returns throughout 2010. Good business partnerships and the company’s entrepreneurial culture helped Hertz to better effectively manage changing market conditions and take advantage of growth opportunities. For example, Hertz made the following important recent acquisitions: * The Dollar Thrifty Automotive Group, which not only strengthened Hertz financially it also expanded Hertz's share in the business travel off-airport market, * The purchase of Eileo SA, a car-sharing service and provider of technology for Connect by Hertz. This investment in technology will help advance Hertz’s leadership by taking the customer experience to the next level, * The addition of the Advantage value brand giving them an even greater share of the growing Leisure segment, the acquisition already has resulted in gaining a full point of U. S. airport market share, * Several smaller acquisitions further expanding their Equipment Rental market. The company’s agility is demonstrated by its ability to quickly adjust labor and fleets to match sudden changes in demand. For example, company transaction days in 2009 were down 8% while worldwide was down 9. 7%. The company can and has, through strategic fleet management, successfully held its fleet and aged it a little further, while adjusting the fleet rotation planning to ensure the fleet remains aligned with demand. Our employees are highly skilled and able to handle difficult situations. During the economic downturn, they were quick, analytical, strategic, and acted with an absolute sense of urgency. All departments work together toward the same goal. Everyone took action by developing a plan and maintaining strong communication. Company strength’s also include Hertz’s novel and innovative services like Hertz #1 Club Gold, NeverLost navigation systems, rental coupons, and Sirius Satellite Radio. To set itself apart from its competitors, Hertz also offers members guaranteed satisfaction, increased discounts, free use of one child, infant or booster seat, free unlimited mileage on most rentals, no Saturday night keep required, and no airline ticket required to qualify for low weekly rates. Finally, Hertz’s strength includes the variety of rentals offered to customers like SUVs, vans and specialty rentals. In an effort to further increase its variety, Hertz introduced the Corvette ZHZ to their rental line-up. The new addition is part of their â€Å"Fun Collection† the purpose of which is to serve those clients wishing to rent a sporty car or a specialty vehicle as the Corvette ZHZ comes with a powerful V-8 engine or 436 horsepower. The company expects this limited edition car will be an asset during the summer vacation rental season and ordered 500 of them in 2008. SWOC Analysis: Weaknesses Over the past 18 months, the United States and international markets have experienced a significant decline in economic activity that has affected the car rental market, including a tightening of the credit markets, reduced business and leisure travel, reduced consumer spending and volatile fuel prices. In the equipment rental business, the decline in economic activity has resulted in a decline in activity in construction and other businesses in which our equipment rental customers operate. Accordingly, the car and equipment rental industries have both experienced unprecedented declines in volume and demand. Hertz is not unlike any other organization in this economic climate in that they have aspirations of seeing the upside of this downward spiral. Unfortunately, most of what Hertz is dependent upon to make it through is outside of their realm of control. The car and equipment rental industry is significantly affected by general economic conditions, and any further decreases in general economic activity could materially and adversely affect their financial condition and results of operations. The results of operations are affected by many economic factors, including the level of economic activity in the markets in which they operate. The car rental business, which provides the majority of the revenues, is particularly sensitive to reductions in the levels of airline passenger travel, and any further reduction in air travel could materially adversely impact their financial condition and results of operations. The car rental industry is particularly affected by reductions in business and leisure travel, especially with respect to levels of airline passenger traffic. Approximately 84% of our worldwide revenues during 2009 were provided by the car rental segment, and they estimate that approximately 67% of the car rental revenues were generated at their airport rental locations. Further reductions in levels of air travel, whether caused by general economic conditions, airfare increases (e. g. , due to capacity reductions or increases in fuel costs borne by commercial airlines) or other events such as work stoppages, military conflicts, terrorist incidents, natural disasters, epidemic diseases, or the response of governments to any of these events, could materially and adversely affect Hertz. Other factors that could adversely affect Hertz include: * Intense competition that may lead to downward pricing, or an inability to increase prices. If Hertz tries to increase their pricing, their competitors, some of who may have greater resources and better access to capital than them, may seek to compete aggressively on the basis of pricing. In addition, their competitors may reduce prices in order to attempt to gain a competitive advantage or to compensate for declines in rental activity associated with reductions in economic activity. Slow economic periods could constrain their liquidity and adversely affect our results of operations. Certain significant components of their expenses are fixed in the short-run, including minimum concession fees, real estate taxes, rent, insurance, utilities, maintenance and other facility-related expenses, the costs of operating their information technology systems and minimum staffing costs. * They may not be successful in the business strategy to expand into the off-airport rental market. They have been increasing their presence in the off-airport car rental market in the United States and intend to continue to pursue profitable growth opportunities through a combination of selected new location openings, a disciplined evaluation of and strategic changes with respect to existing locations, and the pursuit of same-store sales growth. * A downsizing of their rental car fleet could require them to make additional cash payments for tax liabilities, which could be material. An inability to purchase adequate supplies of competitively priced cars or equipment and the cost of the cars or equipment purchased increases, their financial condition and results of operations may be materially adversely affected. * Declines in the value of the non-program cars in their fleet due to decreases in residual values could adversely impact the financial condition and results of operations. For the year ended December 31, 2009, approximately 53% of the cars purchased in the combined U. S. n d international car rental fleet were subject to repurchase by car manufacturers under contractual repurchase or guaranteed depreciation programs. * The failure of a manufacturer of cars that Hertz owns to fulfill their obligations under a repurchase or guaranteed depreciation program could expose them to loss on those cars and adversely impact the outstanding asset-backed financing facilities, which could in turn adversely affect the liquidity and results of operations. For the year ended December 31, 2009, the highest outstanding month-end receivable balance for cars sold to a single manufacturer was $95. million owed by Hyundai Motor Company in January 2009, which was subsequently paid. Although there is no guarantee that Hertz will be paid these amounts by any car manufacturer that files for bankruptcy protection in the future and/or otherwise ceases operations, any failure by a manufacturer to pay such amounts due could, among other things, cause a credit enhancement deficiency with respect to the asset-backed financing, in which case the collateral requirements for such facilities could be increased. * Significant increases in fuel costs or reduced supplies of fuel could harm our business. Fuel prices have been volatile recently, and could fluctuate severely and/or increase overall in 2010. According to the U. S. Energy Information Administration, from 2008 to 2009, the average retail cost of a gallon of gasoline in the United States decreased 27. 9%; however it was projected that over the course of 2010 fuel prices would increase 20. 8%. * Heavy reliance upon communications networks and centralized information technology systems to accept reservations, process rental and sales transactions, manage our fleets of cars and equipment, account for activities and otherwise conduct business. This reliance exposes them to various risks that could cause a loss of reservations, interfere with their ability to manage the fleet, slow rental and sales processes. * Risks related to liabilities and insurance since their businesses exposes them to claims for personal injury, death and property damage resulting from the use of the cars and equipment rented or sold by Hertz, and for workers’ compensation claims and other employment-related claims by our employees. SWOC Analysis: Opportunities Hertz has weathered the economic storm of 2008, the worst economic conditions in their 91 year history by looking ahead for growth opportunities and ways to improve service levels. A review of external and internal actions that have prepared Hertz to capitalize on opportunities: External Actions * Improved conditions in car and equipment rental business * Successfully developing business in key emerging markets: Brazil, China and India; * Experiencing improvement in the US Car rental, the largest share of the Hertz business Internal Actions * Reduced costs by 1. billion dollars; headcount reduction (4,000 employees) taken in non strategic locations (with a bit of help from the economy Hertz should be poised for solid growth). * Refinanced 3. 3 billion dollar debt one year ahead of schedule on favorable terms. * Hertz has stayed the course intentionally focusing on three key business emphasis areas: asset management, employee satisfaction and customer satisfaction. * Lighthouse projec t that utilizes employee input in the development of customer features has improved employee engagement and customer satisfaction. Opportunities Hertz is â€Å"leading the way with High-Tech, High-Touch innovations†; Hertz. om, self service kiosks at 36 major airports, including 11 in Europe (which have successfully completed 500,000 transactions), portable rental devices, enabling roving customer service agents to address customer needs; integrated car sharing technology including online booking, applications for iPhone and Blackberry smartphones; GPS navigation upgrades with touch point screens. Hertz has more than 700 locations in Europe, along with franchise partners which rivals its airport locations – European local rentals continues to grow for business people as it is the most efficient means of travel in Europe. They possess the most diverse car fleet in the rental industry, enabling service to all customer segments; vacationers, business people and local residents. This is a key area of expansion as Hertz looks to 2010 to open 150 new locations. Looking to expand their leisure â€Å"driving for fun† market, Hertz introduced a pre-paid program that is used primarily by the 21-25 year old market, a market segment that was and in many cases is not allowed to even rent before this program. In addition they introduced three new programs for vacation travelers; i. Prestige collection – high end SUVs’ and luxury car models (Volvo, Lincoln, Cadillac, BMS, Audi and Land Rover. ) ii. Green collection – Toyota Prius, Ford Fusion, Toyota Corolla, Camry hybrids. iii. Fun collection – Ford Mustang, Chevy Corvette, Jeep Wrangler. To further diversify, Hertz purchased Advantage Rent –A-Car a very reasonably priced car rental popular with those who do the Priceline on line booking. Hertz has combined their fleet with Advantage in order to offer a variety of peak and off peak vehicles to meet a variety of renter needs. They’ve begun looking at renting electric cars, a zero carbon, and rechargeable vehicle, introduced in late 2010 in North American and European markets. The target market for the electric cars is a university setting where the charging stations make sense for car sharing experiences. In addition, car sharing, Connect by Hertz, a total mobility solution offering high tech, high touch rental option for urban, university and corporate travelers. To further expand their offerings, Hertz purchased Paris based Eileo in 2009, the pioneer of integrated car sharing technology, a concept that has been launched in London, Paris and NYC. This offering reduces the number of cars on the road which also reduces pollution, creating an economic benefit for crowded urban areas. In their global markets, Hertz has expanded their equipment rental revenue into China and the Middle East with entertainment services, power generation and industrial equipment. This expansion of global footprint gives Hertz the ability to offer first class rental experiences through corporate owned or franchised partners. Special attention was given to China (Beijing and Shanghai) and China’s new 48 airports, Saudi Arabia/Middle east with equipment where construction is booming currently. SWOC Analysis: Challenges Dependence on the United States Automobile Industry The financial instability of U. S. car manufactures has presented significant challenges to the Hertz Corporation. Hertz depends on its business partnerships with these organizations. The bankruptcy of many American auto manufacturers has led to double digit declines in car and equipment rental volumes. The majority of Hertz’s rental cars are purchased from Ford and General motors. In the event that these companies would cease manufacturing and selling vehicles, Hertz would have to increase purchasing vehicles from other manufactures. However, there is no guarantee that Hertz will be able to purchase vehicles at their current purchasing price. Technological Changes and Advances Many futurist and economists see technological innovation as one of the major forces driving industrial change (Schwartz, 2003 as cited in Bryson, 2004). As technology becomes increasing dominant in American organizations, Hertz employees will need to develop new skills to use and the organization will need to adopt these processes, structures, and resource allocations. Hertz will need to continually improve the way in which technology â€Å"drives† its business. These could represent challenges for them to improve the operation and effectiveness of their website, self-serving kiosks at airports, the GPS systems in their vehicles, and also includes the advancing their smart phone applications. Information technology is currently driving major changes likely to have dramatic impacts on organizational performance, accountability, and issues related to data and privacy (Bryson, 2004). Hertz reliance on technology exposes risk that could cause loss of a reservation; interfere with their ability to manage fleets, privacy issues, and the slow operation of the car rental and sales process. Hertz needs to protect against these risks because they could adversely affect customer relations, operating results, and financial conditions. Competitive Pressures Hertz operates in a highly competitive market. They currently posses a 25. 7% share of the rental car market (AVIS/Budget- 28. 9%, Enterprise- 31. 4%, Dollar/Thrifty- 12. 0%) Enterprise brands currently dominate off-airport rentals and the insurance replacement markets respectively. One of Hertz’s priorities is to present a bigger challenge to Enterprise in these particular arenas. In order to do so, Hertz needs to remain cognizant of the business strategies of their biggest competitors. Significant changes in the competitive market will affect Hertz’s business strategies and policies, not excluding pricing practices and incentive programs. For example, most consumers have become more cost conscientious since the recent recession. If Hertz were to increase costs, their competition, some of which has greater resources and better access to capital, may seek to compete aggressively on the basis of pricing. In essence, Hertz competition could gain strategic advantages by reducing their prices. Hertz may also be presented with additional challenges from future competition. Worldwide equipment rentals, an area in which Hertz does especially well in, is currently highly fragmented with few national competitors. It is reasonably foreseeable for new competition to develop and penetrate that particular market. Maintaining customer satisfaction and employee morale The present economy has made maintaining customer satisfaction and employee morale particularly challenging. The recession has caused Hertz to focus intensely on reducing operating costs. This means they had to drastically reduce staff and close many under-performing locations. In order for Hertz to maintain customer satisfaction with fewer employees and locations, they must develop more efficient practices and policies. This would also require Hertz to- consistently monitor the need for additional staffing at improving locations, constantly assess environmental trends, and introduce customer-centered technologies. Hertz must also be prepared to combat a potential decline in employee morale. With lay-offs perpetually looming, it is reasonable to expect employee morale to waver. If this happens, it could present deficiencies in operations which would directly affect customer satisfaction levels. Merger Transitions Hertz recently acquired Eileo, a France based company that specializes in car-sharing programs. They also acquired the Advantage Rent-A-Car company in April of 2009. One of the challenges of these major acquisitions for Hertz is for them to be able to effectively integrate these associated offices, without diluting the Hertz brand. In essence, they must realize operational synergies. Doing this does involve numerous risks including: potential disruptions of ongoing business, distractions of management, difficulties integrating different business practices, and exposure of unknown liabilities. Pressures to Go â€Å"Green† â€Å"Green† policies and practices are becoming preferred by the majority of the American population. Consumers are increasingly concerned with the longevity of the planet. Hertz business policies need to accept America’s vision of â€Å"greener† practices. In order to do this, Hertz most take on a moral responsibility to utilize vehicles with higher MPG and better fuel emission standards that are safer for the environment. This could also include the challenges of effectively developing electric car initiates and car sharing programs. Expanding the â€Å"Global Footprint† Approximately one-third of Hertz’s revenue is generated outside the U. S. market. They currently have franchise partners in over 136 countries. One of the biggest challenges Hertz faces is to minimize the economic effects in their international market, particularly in Europe. This is especially challenging, considering the fact that global recession has caused most companies to eliminate market expansion plans. And yet, Hertz still has ambitions to add locations worldwide, including establishing a higher concentration in the Chinese market. China happens to be the world’s fastest growing car and equipment rental market. ) Other Challenges Facing the Hertz Corporation include; * Fossils fuels- rising fuel costs and/or shortages in fuel directly impact rental acquisition, leaving consumers to find it too expensive to travel. * External threats affecting travel- war, terrorist attacks, epidemic disease, natural disasters, etc * Risk management- the liability of Hertz being responsible for equipment damage, property damage, personal injury, death, and the litigation expenses that could result from these occurrences. * Seasonality- a decrease in travel uring the winter and increase during the spring and summer month’s present challenges to efficiently manage fleet operations. * Government laws, mandates, and controls- Hertz is subjected to many governmental regulations in relation to pricing/advertising, privacy and data collection, currency controls, labor relations, charge card operations, insurance policies, environmental protection, and used car sales and licensing procedures. Changes in any governmental policy, or the adoption of new laws, could result in significant changes in Hertz procedures, which may increase cost of operations and applicable tax rates. Marketing- Hertz will be continually challenged to conduct active sales and marketing programs that attract and retain customers. STRATEGIC ISSUES Hertz is a front runner in the rental vehicle business, number two only to AVIS in the current markets Hertz serves. In order to maintain and grow a competitive edge there are some strategic issues that Hertz must address directly. Market Share Vehicle Rental Hertz is at the top with Avis edging them out for the top spot, however staying at top means keeping the â€Å"Brand† in front of the audience. In the SG ; A discussion of the 2009 Annual Report Hertz trimmed their advertising expense by almost 30%. They did not mention a new structure for media buying to be facilitated by a new agency to save costs. I am left to think they simply decreased advertising. In recent travels and paying closer attention to media in travel magazines: Delta Airlines and US Airway’s flight magazine AVIS – big red versus big yellow was the dominant vehicle rental advertiser. Should you look at any other established, well known brand, Coke and Pepsi as an obvious example; they spend millions keeping that logo â€Å"front of mind†. Advertising is seen anywhere you could potentially think about drinking a soft drink. In order to continue to branch out with new technology in an effort to capitalize on the brand, Hertz must continue a very aggressive media campaign to be present anywhere people may think of rental car need. Car Manufacturers Hertz suffered greatly when the US car manufacturer’s financial challenges. Hertz has depended on the partnerships with manufacturers who were not able to meet the obligations of their agreements with Hertz which left Hertz scrambling to develop new avenues for fleet vehicle programs. Ford who Hertz relies on in the US must stay solvent in order to Hertz to enjoy the ability to purchase fleet and program vehicles and the tax incentives they enjoy because of their inventory management of fleet. Debt and Interest payments For the next two to five years in order to survive Hertz must meet obligations for all interest payments and as a sign of financial stability should look to significant debt reduction. The 2009 annual report indicates 126 million in losses, interest expense of 680 million which are material amounts. The debt is held by two primary lenders: Deuschte Bank and Bank of Scotland. If either organization called their notes requiring payment in full, Hertz would not succeed. Hertz is not the low cost leader and needs to maintain that position in a positive way to ensure financial trends are positive. Technology Hertz must focus on the ability execute operationally any technology introduced. It is one thing to advertise iPhone applications, internet and wifi connections; the ability to produce what the customer has reserved using the wireless technologies has to be present in order to build customer confidence. If one reserves, arrives and has no vehicle – does the technology really matter if you did not save time or feel that you had received value or convenience. To that traveler at that moment Hertz must be able to execute. The ability to distribute their assets to the right place, at the right time to support demand from these new technologies is critical. Focus on Green Hertz is committed to what they refer to as the â€Å"electric car revolution†. This is a vehicle with a zero carbon footprint. At the present time, lack of recharging stations will temper the demand for the electric cars. The hope is that in the next few years university settings and very urban markets will take the lead for the establishment of charging stations will then provide a structure for this next generation of green transportation. In the short term availability of hybrid models such as the Toyota Prius, Nissan Altima and Toyota Camry are Hertz’ response to those who require a greener model. Off Airport Rental Hertz is beginning to enter new location space with their fleet:  off airport rental. Hertz is going face to face with the established leader, Enterprise system. Is this an appropriate move for the next 2 – 5 years in the US market? Europe where Hertz has a presence and daily/weekly rentals are a â€Å"way of life† is one thing (add to that most of those markets are franchised so you can terminate an arrangement). Hertz will be risking additional asset costs in fleet, leased property, staffing in hope to gain ground in an area held firmly by Enterprise. People Hertz North America has reduced headcount to a bare minimum deploying human assets on an admitted â€Å"as needed† basis to strategic hubs. This is a very short term view of growth. The ability to grow infrastructure must include a committed front line, operational management team. The Annual Report stated an increase in employee satisfaction. The hope is then that Hertz continues to communicate and reach out to those dedicated to customer service second to none in spite of financial challenges. That part of the human touch with customers leasing employees where customer contact is needed; airport leasing, returns with checkout is necessary in order to build repeat business. Equipment Business Hertz’ equipment business does not report a leadership presence in any one market, in any one geographic area. By Hertz’ own admission the competitive landscape in this business segment is â€Å"intense. Can Hertz realistically, financially maintain a healthy presence in both industries? EBITDA results were maintained for the equipment portion of the business through cost cutting measures as revenues dropped dramatically. US new construction continues to struggle and from the readings the European market is no better. China is bustling, but are we confident based on current locations that we can enter then stay competitive those new and emerging markets? The equipment is expensive in multiple ways: assets are expensive to purchase, maintain, and insure. Is the return versus other similarly situated usinesses sound? Hertz is in a business where receivables can become problematic. Credit is extended, and during financially challenging times generally extended past healthy limits. There was a surprisingly low 1. 1% bad debt due to non-payment, and the receivable turnaround time was not addressed. The fact is you generally do not immediately receive your payment as you would in a fleet rental transaction. The current uncertainty of the future global construction market begs  Hertz to question whether they can appropriately focus on two different business rental segments given their current financial condition. Summary Hertz has significant brand recognition, good ideas to generate revenue for the future. However they are in a precarious situation; two distinctly different business segments that have experienced huge revenue declines, specifically, construction and the vacation and leisure vehicle rental declines of 2008 and 2009 that have left Hertz with extraordinary debt to consider in order to remain a going concern. Foundations of goals and strategic plan We have successfully completed both external and internal analyses of the rental car and equipment markets as it pertains to the Hertz Corporation. The goals and future direction of the corporation must unequivocally elicit actions, that when taken, establish and maintain strategic advantages for Hertz in this extremely competitive market. We believe the goals established herein educe such responses. The subsequent section of this strategic plan will outline the strategies and approaches to be taken by Hertz to facilitate obtainment of their principal goals. The following goals have been established for the Hertz Corporation: Increased Market Share In the last 5 years, Hertz has consistently relinquished percentages of their car-rental market share to their principal competitors. Currently, it is estimated that Hertz’s market share is at 25. 7%. The goal over the next 3 years is for Hertz to secure one-third of the share in this market. In doing so, Hertz will also maintain its dominance in the equipment rental market and begin to compete with Enterprise in the off-airport rental market. Hertz will also aggressively pursue its international markets, including significantly extending operations in China, the worlds’ fastest growing car and equipment rental market. Movement toward sustainable inventory Hertz will significantly extend its social responsibility programs. The goal is for Hertz to drastically increase eco-friendly vehicles to its operating fleet (a 30% increase by 2014). Hertz believes it has a moral obligation to do so and will diligently pursue business directives that are safer for the environment. This includes introducing â€Å"smart car† initiatives, increasing electric car fleet additions, and contracting more fuel efficient vehicles that emit lower carbon-dioxide into the atmosphere. Improve customer satisfaction by training and technology Hertz has always recognized its required allegiance to the customers of their brand. Hertz will continue to pursue business objectives that improve customer’s experience with the product. This will include increasing customer relationship trainings for all our employees. The company will also set aggressive goals over the next 3 years to be the most technologically advanced rental car and equipment company in the world. Essentially, the technology goals were established to make the customer’s experience more rewarding. At Hertz, we believe that the consequences of improving our technology will result in a better brand image and improved customer satisfaction. The satisfaction/technology goals rely on the principle of the â€Å"four mores†: 1) more safe and responsible 2) more simplistic 3) more reliable 4) more comfortable Dedication to Employees Over the next 3 years, it will be increasingly evident that Hertz feels morally responsible to the environment, their customers, and shareholders. However, our company would like to further acknowledge its commitment to the employees of Hertz. We understand that the current economic crisis has forced the company into making tough decisions, decisions that ultimately left thousands of Hertz employees jobless. Hertz also understands that no goal outlined in this strategic plan will be attainable without the commitment and dedication of all its employees. Therefore, Hertz is introducing its M. O. R. A. L. E program (Movement of Recognizing All Leadership Employees). This movement will provide the following benefits for Hertz employees: incentives for excellent job performance, lucrative rewards for obtaining organizational goals, commission plans added to employee’s base salary- purposefully designed to improve performance, monthly employee recognition meetings, and an aggressive career advancement campaign. The goal here is for Hertz to improve the morale of all its employees and be recognized as the number one employer in the car and equipment rental industry. Drastically decrease debt owed Hertz currently owes a substantial monetary amount to two primary lenders: Deuschte Bank and Bank of Scotland. Operating under such debt has caused strategic limitations and will undoubtedly effect the attainment of the goals laid herein. Hertz is also subjected to the arbitrary decisions of the aforementioned lenders. The corporation may struggle to sustain itself if either lender requires payment in full or radically increases payment contingencies. Therefore, over the next 3 years, Hertz will industriously contribute to paying off debt owed. It is believed that Hertz’s ability to do so will be promoted by obtaining all of the other goals outlined in this strategic plan. Hertz Strategic Plan Implementation Hertz Global Holdings (Hertz) operates vehicle and equipment rental businesses in the United States and Europe as well as global services for industries like construction, automobile manufacturing, railroad, power generation, and shipbuilding. Hertz vehicle rental business is the largest worldwide. Headquartered in Park Ridge, New Jersey, the company employs 24,900 people in approximately 8,200 locations in 146 countries worldwide. Mission It is the mission of Hertz to be the most customer focused, cost efficient vehicle and equipment rental/leasing company in every market we serve. We will strengthen our leading worldwide positions through a shared value culture of employee and partner involvement by making strategic investments in our brand, people, and products. The focus of everything we do will be on improved shareholder value. Vision Hertz will be the first choice brand for vehicle and equipment rental/leasing and total mobility solutions. Strategies * Ensure that the Hertz Brand is in front of the target audience through aggressive and consistent media campaigns to further increase vehicle rental market share. * Hertz will increase marketing expenditures by 15% over the next three years. The company will frontline its new marketing campaign epitomized by its new slogan. â€Å"Hertz, driving you towards the future. The focus of this campaign will be to characterize Hertz’s image as an enviro-friendly car rental company that has embraced technological advancements. * Expand partnerships to avoid conflicts and retain an ability to purchase fleet and program vehicles. * Meet and exceed obligations for all interest payments to secure financial stability in an additional effort to significantly reduce debt. * Focus on, plan for, and in vest in new and useful technologies and facilities to meet and match customer expectations in order to build customer confidence and to distribute Hertz products to the right place at the right time to support demand. Continue to embrace the principles of environmental sustainability that serve the evolving needs of our employees and customers. Remain committed to vehicles with the lowest carbon footprint. Waiting for and accessing infrastructure as the demand for electric cars increases. In the short term, hybrid models such as the Toyota Prius, Nissan Altima and Toyota Camry will be used in response to customer demand. * Continue to find and use new location space off the airport rental market challenging the competition. Challenge, empower and engage employees seeking to increase satisfaction through affirming communication to improve morale and decrease turnover. Hertz will strive to increase the diversity of the workforce as a contribution to the overall success, and to recruit and retain talented employees. * Increased use of ‘the human touch’ instead of technology where needed, and will respect and care for each customer through each transaction in order to build repeat business. * Consider the equipment rental/leasing portion of the business for cost utting measures as revenues dropped dramatically, U. S. new construction continues to struggle and China is competitive. REFERENCES Hertz Annual Report: http://phx. corporate-ir. net/External. File? item=UGFyZW50SUQ9Mzc2NTI0fENoaWxkSUQ9Mzc1MTMxfFR5cGU9MQ==;t=1 Hertz Global Holdings, Inc. Q4 2009 Earnings Call Transcript http://seekingalpha. com/article/190491-hertz-global-holdings-inc-q4-2009-earnings-call-transcript Hertz Mission Statement, Vision and Values: https://images. hertz. com/pdfs/VMVWeb. pdf

Act of Kindness

Helping out with everything around the house and my ill little brother is the biggest act of kindness I would think I have done. It is also my responsibility so be aware of the situation my family is in and to try and help out. My father as a farmer he works long hours in the hot sun, that is during summer, and cold days in the winter. My mother only works during the summer, as a farmer as well that is, I know the hardest season but it’s well paid for us mid-class citizens.I know how hard it is to work in the fields, since I have worked with my parents before. Working as a farmer is very hard work, dealing with the sun is not fun, but we all need to find a way to make money and maintain our home. I always try to help out with the house chores, and help my parents out a little. Wouldn’t you, do the same? Seeing my mother stresses because bills can’t be paid, and my father coming from work exhausted, I always do my best to make them be conferrable at home. I have f ood for my father when he comes from work, I clean do laundry.I try to not cause my mother anymore stresses, by trying to be a good daughter that one day she’ll be proud of. I help out my mother with my younger brother who suffers from muscular dystrophy. He is 15 years old, and now that he is older his muscles are getting weaker and his ability to walk long distances are just decreasing. I help him sidewalk is a big step, and he is always afraid he will fall so he needs our motivation and I try to be there for him. Making him laugh spending time with him it all helps out.Now that he can’t really get out and go to the park he needs company and I’m always there with him, when my parents are just too busy. I have had 4 older brothers pass away from muscular dystrophy, I’m pretty sure that’s a lot for a mother to go thru. So I’m always one step ahead of my mother and helping with everything. We all can help out and be kind. It’s not so m uch about being kind, but being humane and taking responsibilities. Helping the homeless by giving them a sub that one day, you might have saved them from starving.I’m just trying to say that any little act of kindness can go a long way and make a big difference. It is not that difficult to state a straightforward ‘thank you', and even it can genuinely alter the prospect of somebody else's day. My older brother, Arnold, once said to me that, â€Å"It acquires more power to glare than to smile. † I've acknowledged that only by behaving respectfully with the citizens around, you are able to genuinely create the more positive ambiance around you. Act of Kindness reallyThis is a story on an act of kindness I did for this girl I didnt know to well. One day as I was walking home from my old school I saw this girl, she looked like a complete nerd someone I wouldn't normally talk to. She was walking home looking really sad, kind of like she had no one to talk to. I walked over to her and introduced myself and she also told me who she was; she said her name is Abby. She was carrying books in her hands and it looked heavy I asked her if I could help. She nodded and told me I was more then welcome.I walked her home that day. I asked her if she would like to hang out sometime to call me and gave her my number, a few weeks later we were best friends. Months down the road she found out she was pregnant, this took me by surprise since I didnt even know she was dating anyone. The guy who got her pregnant walked out and hardly never came around. I could tell by the look on Abby's face that she was pretty scared. I told her no mater what ill always be ther e for her if she ever needed anything.The hardest part for her was to tell her parents she was pregnant. Her parents are the strick ones, that go to church every sunday and doesnt allow their daughter to have a boyfriend or anything. So trying to explain to her parents that she had got a boyfriend and had sexual intercorse with him behind there backs was going to be a tough situation. She didnt tell anyone for three months that she was pregnant,but it got down to where she had to say something since she was starting to show.Abby asked me if i could be there with her when she telled her parents on Thursday; I told her i could and that id be there Thursday at four o'clock. Thursday came and I went to her house and as soon as she anwsered the door she started freaking out with panic. I told her to calm down everything will be fine and that if she wants me to tell her parents i would. She appreciated it and told me to tell her parents for her. As we started walking closer to her parents I told them that Abby had something she wanted to tell them.Her parents started getting worried and asked what this was about. I then told her parents that she was scared to tell them about hows shes pregnant. Ive never seen anyones face look so furious in my entire life, They asked me to leave so they could talk as a family. Later that next week Abby's parents called me and asked me to come over for dinner and talk with them about something. I agreed and told them id be there shortly. As I rushed to get dressed all I could think about was what they wanted to talk to me about, I began to get nervous.As I arrived and walked to the door my stomach dropped and then i knocked on the door. Abby's parents answered the door and we sat down to eat. After we got done eating Abby's mom started to tell me how when i met Abby, abby wasnt in the best state of mind. I told them how i already knew and how i talked her out of a bunch of things before and they thanked me. They both thanked me for b eing such a great friend to Abby, and to this day I help take care of Abby's daughter.

Free Essays on Geographical Information Systems

Geographical Information Systems What Is a GIS? A geographic information system (GIS) is a computer-based tool for mapping and analyzing things that exist and events that happen on earth. GIS technology integrates, via the Internet, common database operations such as query and statistical analysis with the unique visualization and geographic analysis benefits offered by maps. These abilities distinguish GIS from other information systems and make it valuable to a wide range of public and private enterprises for explaining events, predicting outcomes, and planning strategies. This would be a very tedious and slow process without the speed and efficiency of the Internet. The Internet allows huge global companies to maintain a single database that can be accessed from branches around the world and maintained locally free from manipulation. The major challenges we face in the world todayoverpopulation, pollution, deforestation, and natural disasters have a critical geographic dimension. Whether siting a new business, finding the best soil for growing bananas, or figuring out the best route for an emergency vehicle, local problems also have a geographical component. With the use of the Internet, companies will have the power to create maps, integrate information, visualize scenarios, solve complicated problems, present powerful ideas, and develop effective solutions like never before. GIS is a tool used by individuals and organizations, schools, governments, and businesses seeking innovative ways to solve their problems. Mapmaking and geographic analysis are not new, but a GIS performs these tasks better and faster than do the old manual methods. And, before Internet technology, only a few people had the skills necessary to use geographic information to help with decision-making and problem solving. Today, GIS is a multibillion-dollar industry employing hundreds of thousands of people worldwide. GIS is taught in schools, colleg... Free Essays on Geographical Information Systems Free Essays on Geographical Information Systems Geographical Information Systems What Is a GIS? A geographic information system (GIS) is a computer-based tool for mapping and analyzing things that exist and events that happen on earth. GIS technology integrates, via the Internet, common database operations such as query and statistical analysis with the unique visualization and geographic analysis benefits offered by maps. These abilities distinguish GIS from other information systems and make it valuable to a wide range of public and private enterprises for explaining events, predicting outcomes, and planning strategies. This would be a very tedious and slow process without the speed and efficiency of the Internet. The Internet allows huge global companies to maintain a single database that can be accessed from branches around the world and maintained locally free from manipulation. The major challenges we face in the world todayoverpopulation, pollution, deforestation, and natural disasters have a critical geographic dimension. Whether siting a new business, finding the best soil for growing bananas, or figuring out the best route for an emergency vehicle, local problems also have a geographical component. With the use of the Internet, companies will have the power to create maps, integrate information, visualize scenarios, solve complicated problems, present powerful ideas, and develop effective solutions like never before. GIS is a tool used by individuals and organizations, schools, governments, and businesses seeking innovative ways to solve their problems. Mapmaking and geographic analysis are not new, but a GIS performs these tasks better and faster than do the old manual methods. And, before Internet technology, only a few people had the skills necessary to use geographic information to help with decision-making and problem solving. Today, GIS is a multibillion-dollar industry employing hundreds of thousands of people worldwide. GIS is taught in schools, colleg...

Practice in Using Quotation Marks Correctly

Practice in Using Quotation Marks Correctly This exercise will give you practice in applying our Guidelines for Using Quotation Marks Effectively (U.S. edition). InstructionsInsert quotation marks wherever they are needed in the sentences below. When youre done, compare your answers with those on page two. For several weeks in 2009, the Black Eyed Peas held the top two spots on the music charts with their songs I Gotta Feeling and Boom Boom Pow.Last week we read A Modest Proposal, an essay by Jonathan Swift.Last week we read A Modest Proposal; this week were reading Shirley Jacksons short story The Lottery.In a famous New Yorker essay in October 1998, Toni Morrison referred to Bill Clinton as our first black president.Bonnie asked, Are you going to the concert without me?Bonnie asked if we were going to the concert without her.In the words of comedian Steve Martin, Talking about music is like dancing about architecture.The indie folk band Deer Tick sang What Kind of Fool Am I?Was it Dylan Thomas who wrote the poem Fern Hill?Uncle Gus said, I heard your mother singing Tutti Frutti out behind the barn at three oclock in the morning.Ive memorized several poems, Jenny said, including The Road Not Taken by Robert Frost.All our failures, wrote Iris Murdoch, are ultimately failures in love. Answers to the exercise Practice in Using Quotation Marks Correctly For several weeks in 2009, the Black Eyed Peas held the top two spots on the music charts with their songs â€Å"I Gotta Feeling† and â€Å"Boom Boom Pow.†Last week we read A Modest Proposal, an essay by Jonathan Swift.Last week we read A Modest Proposal; this week were reading Shirley Jacksons short story The Lottery.In a famous New Yorker essay in October 1998, Toni Morrison referred to Bill Clinton as our first black president.Bonnie asked, Are you going to the concert without me?Bonnie asked if we were going to the concert without her. [no quotation marks]In the words of comedian Steve Martin, Talking about music is like dancing about architecture.The indie folk band Deer Tick sang What Kind of Fool Am I?Was it Dylan Thomas who wrote the poem Fern Hill?Uncle Gus said, I heard your mother singing Tutti Frutti out behind the barn at three oclock in the morning.Ive memorized several poems, Jenny said, including The Road Not Taken by Robert Frost.All our failures, wrote Iris Murdoch, are ultimately failures in love.

Technical Definition and Description Assignment - 2

Technical Definition and Description - Assignment Example The main purpose of production in any petrochemical industry remains the separation of oil, gas and water, which is present in the well stream. While two-phase separators do the job of separating oil and gas, the three components are separated in three phase separators. While two-phase separators are used for separating the liquid content from gas, the three phase ones also separate the water content of the crude from gas and liquid. However, different types of separators used for the phase separation are briefly detailed below. After hitting an inlet diverter, the fluid faces a sudden momentum change that ensures separation of liquid and vapor at this point, in such separators. The liquid droplets fall into the bottom of the vessel due to gravity. A level controller regulates the liquid dump valve, after sensing the change in the level of liquid. While a two-phase separator breaks the fluids of well into gas and liquids, a three-phase one separates incoming oil stream into gas, water and oil. Both processes use horizontal or vertical separators for this purpose. (Oil Field, nd) The reasons for following the separation process include relatively cheaper methods of separating oil and gas, by two-phase separators. As water produced in the process can corrode the piping and equipment, downstream, the third phase, involving water separation, saves such equipment from damage and cost towards replacing it. The well production increases due to reduction in back pressure, which is possible after phase separation. This in-turn reduces the required energy consumption. Phase separators are used to separate gas, oil and water as these components form part of the crude stream coming directly from a well. While the two-phase separators are responsible for separating gas/vapor and liquid, three-phase ones remove free water from such crude oil, along with separation of other two

Training Plan Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words - 1

Training Plan - Assignment Example We will be using online skill tests, shadowing/role play, and individual learning to properly train a new hire for this position. The full extent, including on-going training can take up to 6 months. The role of customer service at Sport Chek is responsible for acting as a link between customers and the company. The main roles include assisting with orders, complaints, errors, billing, account questions, and cancelations. There are a variety of resources needed to properly train new employees including space, computers, printer/paper, online training modules and of course, time. All in all, the new hire will cost approximately $1000, which shows how important employee retention is. The training objectives are used to equip the newly acquired personnel with the knowledge, skills, and abilities that ensure they will be a productive part of the customer service force at Sport Chek. The new trainee should have the ability to communicate effectively with coworkers and customers, to start conversations with customers, to analyze and solve problems, and have the basic computer skills to work a register (POS system). The knowledge of general sports, sports fashion/ attire, and outdoor activities are essential. The trainee must also have the ability to learn through observations and hands on experience. In order for sports industry to meet the changing needs of demographic, it is essential that new trainees become more dynamic, flexible and innovative with knowledge of general sports, sports fashion/ attire, and outdoor activities. New employees of Sport Check must understand that the firm is the leading retailer of sporting goods in Canada. Therefore, having the privilege to work in the merchandise store exposes the employee to the greatest product brands that exist across the globe. All new employees of Sport Check merchandise store should have a