Landscape Procurement Plan

Scene Project Procurement Plan 1. Outline: Following a significant remodel and expansion to the house, an overhaul of the front yard is required. This overhaul will incorporate the front yard that is roughly 65 ft wide by 70 ft profound. The territory is limited on the south side by the house and a wooden fence, on the west side by a continuation of the wooden fence for roughly 40 feet. The north side is to the property line, and the east side is limited by the carport. There is a walkway that leaves from the house to around 25 feet and goes to the garage. The territory encased by the carport and walkway is roughly 350 ft2.The significant parts of this update comprise of reviewing and expelling abundance soil staying from redesign, introduce electric wiring for outside lighting, introduce hardscape, scene structure and establishment of the plants and trees. What is excluded from the extent of this task is the seeding of the grass territory, yard support, evacuation of existing plants and painting/recoloring of existing wall. 2. Make or Buy Analysis: While my better half and I can play out most of the assignments related with the scene overhaul, the requirements of time and labor limit the measure of work that we will perform.Below is the Make or Buy Analysis. Task| Make/Buy| Reason| Excavate/Grade yard| Buy| Limited understanding on a Bobcat. More practical to recruit the work out. Scene organizations routinely play out this sort of work| Install electric wiring| Make| Husband is a circuit repairman and is able to play out the work| Landscape design| Buy| Not talented in scene design| Installation of plants| Make and buy| This assignment will be a blend. The bigger trees and plants will be introduced by the nursery. We will introduce the littler plants. Introduce hardscape| Make| These things will be bought and introduced following the plants as time and spending plan permit. | 3. Obtainment needs: a. Unearthing/reviewing b. Electrical materials c. Scene struct ure d. Establishment of plants e. Establishment of hardscape 4. Explanation of work: Task| Statement of Work| Excavation/grading| Soil stays from the uncovering of the establishment and new storm cellar segments of the expansion. Most of the dirt will be evacuated to another area on the property to fill in low spots.This soil will be spread in a way that will bring about a sensibly level area comparative with the encompassing region. Following expulsion of the abundance soil, the front yard will be re-shaped by the details delineated in the scene structure. | Electrical| The electric will comprise of outside evaluation wiring/channel running from the principle electric board situated in the upper east corner of the storm cellar. The outside lighting will be on its own circuit with committed breakers. The channel will be put beneath grade and stretch out past the walkway, to the edge of the driveway.An outside appraised intersection box will be introduced with extra associations with permit extension of the outside lighting varying later on. An outside light shaft and apparatus will be introduced that incorporates, at any rate, one outside outlet. Extra course will be put beneath grade toward the northwest corner of the house. A LB will be introduced to bring the electric wiring over-the-ground to give capacity to two outside outlets for general use. | Landscape design| Evaluation of soil type and condition, height and directionality of front yard to be completed.Based on this assessment, any alteration or supplementation of the dirt will be proceeded varying. A choice of trees, bushes, and perpetual plants will be picked, all in all recognized as â€Å"plants† all through the rest of the arrangement. The structure of the scene will incorporate the review graph, the planting schematic and all consideration directions for chose plants. At least three interchange plants will be given notwithstanding the plant distinguished in the structure. Most of the pla nts should be viewed as local to the Midwest. Trees and tall bushes must be found away from overhead force and telephone lines.The configuration must incorporate what is on the whole known as 3 season plants, which have sprouts, seed heads, and so forth noticeable during spring, summer and fall. Every decorative grass must be under 4 foot tall. At least 2 blossoming trees must be remembered for the plan. One enormous tree, characterized as 10 †12 foot tall, with trunk width of at any rate 6 inches, must be incorporated also. The structure will incorporate evergreen just as deciduous plants and bushes. The general structure ought to be distinguished as low upkeep, comprising of adequate plantings to limit weeds, recognizable proof of different spreads, for example, hardwood mulch and enlivening stone/rock. Establishment of plants| The plants will be introduced by the settled upon structure and plant choice. On the off chance that, in any way, shape or form, a plant isn't accessi ble, a substitute will be picked and introduced in its place. Plants will be introduced with fitting consideration to limit any stun or injury continued by the plants. Following establishment, return visits to assess the wellbeing of the plants will happen at settled upon stretches as suitable. Should any plant not be flourishing, or proceeding true to form, the plant might be supplanted with a substitute recognized in the structure plan. Establishment of hardscape| Hardscape is commonly characterized as changeless apparatuses, for example, sculpture, wellsprings, and so on in a nursery or scene setting. All areas will be set up as indicated by the structure and the hardscape highlights distinguished in the scene configuration will be bought OTS or worked as time and financial plan permit. | 5. Acquisition Documentation: The documentation required to get administrations for every movement is recorded beneath. Task| Documentation Type| Appendix| Excavation/grading| Request for Quote| A| Electrical materials| Request for Quote| B| Landscape design| Request for Proposal| C|Installation of plants| Request for Proposal| D| Installation of hardscape| Request for Quote| E| 6. Agreement Types: The sort of agreement that will be offered with each assignment. Task| Contract Type| Excavation/grading| Firm Fixed Price| Electrical materials| Purchase Order| Landscape design| Firm Fixed Price| Installation of plants| Time and Material| Installation of hardscape| Purchase Order| 7. Assessment measures and determination process f. Accessible choices per action g. Assessment measures h. Suggestion Pre-Qualified Sellers per Activity Task| Supplier| Location| Phone number|Excavation/grading| Waldbart and Sons LandscapingEarthtones LandscapingThe Garden Kingdom| Bunker Hill, IlLebanon, IlGlen Carbon, Il| | Electrical materials| Frost ElectricHome DepotLowes| Collinsville, IlEdwardsville, ILEdwardsville, IL| | Landscape design| Waldbart and Sons LandscapingEarthtones LandscapingTh e Garden Kingdom| Bunker Hill, IlLebanon, IlGlen Carbon, Il| | Installation of plants| Waldbart and Sons LandscapingEarthtones LandscapingThe Garden Kingdom| Bunker Hill, IlLebanon, IlGlen Carbon, Il| | Installation of hardscape| Waldbart and Sons LandscapingEarthtones LandscapingThe Garden Kingdom| Bunker Hill, IlLebanon, IlGlen Carbon, Il| | Evaluation Criteria and Selection Process Task| Evaluation Criteria| Weight|Excavation/grading| CostQualityReferences| 50%25%25%| Electrical materials| CostService| 50%50%| Landscape design| CostQualityReferences| 40%30%30%| Installation of plants| CostQualityReferences| 40%30%30%| Installation of hardscape| CostQualityReferences| 50%30%20%| Criteria Analysis Excavation/Grading| | Waldbart and Sons| Earthtones| Garden Kingdom| Criteria| Weight (%)| Score| Weighted Score| Weighted Score| Weighted Score| Cost| 50| 75| 37. 5| 88| 44| 92| 46| Quality| 25| 92| 23| 97| 24. 25| 89| 22. 25| References| 25| 97| 24. 25| 95| 23. 75| 83| 20. 75| Total| 10 0| | 84. 75| | 92| | 89| Electrical Materials| | Frost Electric| Home Depot| Lowes|Criteria| Weight (%)| Score| Weighted Score| Weighted Score| Weighted Score| Cost| 50| 85| 42. 5| 93| 46. 5| 93| 46. 5| Service| 50| 98| 49| 80| 40| 98| 49| Total| 100| | 91. 5| | 86. 5| | 95. 5| Landscape Design| | Waldbart and Sons| Earthtones| Garden Kingdom| Criteria| Weight (%)| Score| Weighted Score| Weighted Score| Weighted Score| Cost| 40| 86| 34| 91| 36. 4| 88| 35. 2| Quality| 30| 92| 27. 6| 89| 26. 7| 97| 29. 1| References| 30| 96| 28. 8| 89| 26. 7| 98| 29. 4| Total| 100| | 90. 4| | 89. 8| | 93. 7| Installation of Plants| | Waldbart and Sons| Earthtones| Garden Kingdom| Criteria| Weight (%)| Score| Weighted Score| Weighted Score| Weighted Score| Cost| 40| 90| 36| 96| 38. 4| 85| 34|Quality| 30| 93| 27. 9| 90| 27| 92| 27. 6| References| 30| 95| 28. 5| 88| 26. 4| 93| 27. 9| Total| 100| | 92. 4| | 91. 8| | 89. 5| Installation of Hardscape| | Waldbart and Sons| Earthtones| Garden Kingdom| Criteri a| Weight (%)| Score| Weighted Score| Weighted Score| Weighted Score| Cost| 50| 75| 37. 5| 80| 40| 85| 42. 5| Quality| 30| 75| 22. 5| 85| 25. 5| 90| 27| References| 20| 88| 17. 6| 70| 14| 92| 18. 4| Total| 100| | 77. 6| | 79. 5| | 87. 9| Final Selection Each of the distinguished merchants can play out completely required undertakings plot in the announcement of work and for the most part play out these errands as a solitary contracted job.The last determination of seller depends on the most elevated normal weighted score. My significant other will play out the electrical work, buying materials from the chose seller underneath. Task| Company| Excavation/grading| The Garden Kingdom| Electrical materials| Lowe’s| Landscape design| The Garden Kingdom| Installation of plants| The Garden Kingdom| Installation of hardscape| The Garden Kingdom| 8. Calendar Dates: At least 10 days lead time will be given to the commencement of the venture to guarantee electrical work will be finished. The lead times will likewise be subject to climate conditions. In the event that downpour delays work, the timetable will be adj

Answering the questions Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Addressing the inquiries - Assignment Example Meetings involve a great deal and it is important to translate everything heretofore with the end goal that during information planning I would have everything down. This incorporate, responses to all inquiries questions, non-verbal communication of the interviewee and all the word classes used(Gall, Gall, and Borg, 2003). The coding of messages before an examination is essential to subjective substance investigation. This is on the grounds that slight contrasts in unit characterizing can prompt off base choices during coding(Gall, Gall, and Borg, 2003). In this way, unit of investigation can be characterized as the component of composing that is classified during content examination. A model is that during aninterview, an interviewee can utilize a word to depict their whole inclination. This is noted and not really advised to the interviewee yet utilized during coding. So as to create classifications they must be sourced. Wellsprings of classifications can be found in specified speculations, related works or information taken during information readiness. In this stage inductive thinking is utilized to create hypotheses while thinking, inductive and deductive, are utilized to code schemes(Gall, Gall, and Borg, 2003). The coding plan must be exact as any slip-up will prompt an alternate choice which will make all information wrong consequently wrong discoveries and ends. In this manner, a test on the coding plan must be done to test its authenticity(Creswell, 2007). This must be done rapidly to affirm and build up the plan for use on the information planning. Consistency must be underscored in case a slip-up is done to demolish the entire information. In the wake of checking everything like coding realness and consistency and coding the entire content from the meeting the time has come to close. Record discoveries which will have been created through recreations of coded information. Suggestions will be made to preclude suppositions. At last, subsequent to closing the discoveries and composing the down the

Writing Essays To Help You Succeed In College

Writing Essays To Help You Succeed In CollegeStudents who want to write an argumentative essay in college should make sure that the topics they have been written in a style and manner that will be very helpful in developing their writing skills. The college writing staff will appreciate this type of attention, because this type of essay will be useful to them in creating quality instruction and teaching material.It is not difficult to write an argumentative essay, but it does take a lot of practice to get good at the style and method of writing. It is a good idea to take advantage of the instructional material that is available. There are some examples of argumentative essays and they can help you with the style and method of writing that is required to have a successful argumentative essay.Students should try to find an interesting essay topic and one that interest them. They should know the topic well enough to be able to describe it to the reader. In the first paragraph, they shou ld be prepared to answer the question, 'What is the topic?' In the second paragraph, they should answer the question, 'What makes the topic interesting?'Students should take the time to organize the essay by category. If they can, they should give it a clear head on its goals. In the first paragraph, they should begin by describing the goal of the argumentative essay. They should then identify the topic.Students should create an outline for their argumentative essay. They should write it using a narrative format, starting from the beginning to the end. When they are writing the final draft, they should be able to incorporate the entire outline in the essay.Students should ask themselves what they will be covering in the essay. The argumentative essay is a powerful persuasive essay that should be clear about what it is trying to accomplish. It should show the reader how they can benefit from the information that they are being given. Students should make sure that the essay is thorou gh and organized.Students should use the major points of the essay to create an outline for the rest of the arguments. The key is to lay out each argument so that the entire argument can be answered in the conclusion of the essay. The introduction should be used to tell the story and to explain what the readers should expect from the essay.The writing staff will appreciate the work that is being done in the introduction. This is the part of the essay that will tell the readers why they should take the time to read the rest of the essay. Most importantly, the introductory paragraph is the first part of the essay that will create a strong start for the rest of the essay.

A Study of Keynesian Economics - 1073 Words

Which fiscal policies might activist Keynesian economists recommend to help a depressed economy regain full employment? Explain how they work. Keynes and Keynesian economists propose two large categories of measures to help a depressed economy regain full employment. These are either monetary measures or fiscal measures. Monetary measures rely on the decrease of interest rates and the reasoning behind this approach is as follows. The individual in an economy has two basic option of utilizing his cash: save or consume/invest. If the interest rates are higher, then the individual is more like to save than invest, because his return on investment (namely, on his savings) is bigger than if the interest rates are lower. With this in mind, the individual will spend more, purchase more products and services, invest perhaps in businesses etc. All these actions will induce the economic actors to match the increasing aggregate demand on the market with a higher aggregate supply. Companies and production outlets will have an additional incentive to produce and sell more on the market, since the market is more active in purchasing the products and services that they sell. In turn, in order to reach higher levels of production, the companies and firms need to hire more employees. The unemployment levels will decrease overall in the economy, since this is an aggregate phenomenon. The eventual theoretical conclusion should be that the economy will aim towards full employment, underShow MoreRelatedClassical Economics And Keynesian Economics1124 Words   |  5 PagesClassical Economics and Keynesian Economics has given me the opportunity to form an opinion on this greatly debated topic in economics. After researching this topic in great lengths, I have determined the Keynesian Economics far exceeds greatness for America compared to that of Classical Economics. I will begin my paper by first addressing my understanding of both economic theories, I will then compare and contrast both theories, and end my paper with my opinions on why I believe Keynesian Economics isRead MoreMacroeconomic Theories Of Macroeconomics And Classical Economics999 Words   |  4 Pagesis a branch of economics dealing with the performance, structure, behavior, and decision-making of an economy as a whole, rather than individual markets. This includes national, regional, and global economies. With microeconomics, macroeconomics is one of the two most general fields in economics. There are two major macroeconomic theories that economists use to describe the economy. Those theories are Keynesian and Classical. Each theory has a different approach to the economic study of monetary policiesRead MorePost-Keynesian Economic Essay1317 Words   |  6 Pages Post-Keynesian economic was formed and developed by economists such as Joan Robinson and Nicholas Kaldor who believed Keynesian economics was based on disequilibrium and uncertainty, and that challenges the general equilibrium assumptions of neo-classical theory. The main aim of post-Keynesian economics is to complete the unfinished Keynesian revolution. Post-Keynesian economists fundamentally used ideas from Keynes and his concept of effective demand, Marxist economist Michael Kalecki to provideRead MoreEconomic Studies: Quantitative and Qualitative Analysis793 Words   |  3 PagesEconomics studies many different things such as how governments, firms, individuals, and nations make decisions on distributing limited assets to fulfill their unlimited wants. It is broken down into two categories, macroeconomics, and microeconomics. Macroeconomics focuses on the behavior of the economy while microeconomics focuses on and individual as a consumer. Economics also focuses on two different studies known as quantitative and qualitative analysis in which they focus on the distributionRead MoreKayne vs Hayek1370 Words   |  6 Pagesbranch of economics dealing with the performance, structure, behavior, and decision-making of the whole economy. Macroeconomists study aggregated indicators such as GDP, unemployment rates, and price indices to understand how the whole economy functions. They develop models that explain the relationship between such factors as national income, output, consumption, unemployment, inflation, savings, investment, international trade and international finance. The two major theories of economics are ClassicalRead MoreNew Classical Macroeconomics Arose From The Monetarism And Rational Expectation School Essay922 Words   |  4 Pagesand follows the tradition of classical economics. If the market mechanism is allowed to play its role spontaneously, which could solve the unemployment, recession and a series of macroeconomic issues. Keynesian economists believe that changes in the money supply will lead to changes in effective demand that will changes in the total economy. For economic cycle fluctuation, Keynesian economists believe that is a disequilibrium phenomenon. In 1960s, Keynesian economists appealed to the Phillips curveRead MoreBiography of John Maynard Keynes Essay990 Words   |  4 PagesThroughout the history of economics, there have been many experts and professors whose ideas and theories have fundamentally affected our thoughts and practices, but none has been as influential on this subject as John Maynard Keynes. He was a B ritish economist who revolutionized economic thinking and to this day his work continues to be appreciated and utilized by many into what is known as â€Å"Keynesian Economics.† John Maynard Keynes was an Englishman born in 1883, who went on to become one of theRead MoreIntroduction. The Rising Unemployment Has Generated Challenges1381 Words   |  6 Pagesimpacts on the communities and economic growth of the country. The prevalence of high unemployment rates in low income communities in the U.S contributes to increased poverty rates, leads to development of social unrest and conflicts, and hinders effective flow of liquidity thus limiting labor mobility (Phelps Zoega, 2002). This paper seeks to study on the effects of the rising unemployment in low income communities using the theories of economics. Theories of Economics Explaining the Effects of RisingRead MoreThe Impact Of Classical Economics On The United States1052 Words   |  5 PagesThe United States has always faced its fair share of economic ups and downs. Financial upturns can quickly lead to downswings, and there have been plenty of theorists who believe they can solve the great divide. No one ever plans for a recession to last more than a few months, let alone watch the economy crumble into a deep depression. How can this happen, when the economy is supposed to be able to self-correct itself as one theory suggests? Moreover, when self-correction does not triumph, doesRead MoreThe Inflation Definition And Influences Essay1649 Words   |  7 Pagesresult in the social and economic disorder and can negatively impact the development of the economy. However, within a certain period of time, moderate inflation can stimulate consumption, expand domestic demand and promote economic development (Trevithick and Mulvey 19 96). For example, sometimes the government borrow money from the central bank to expand financial investment and take measures to ensure that the private sector investment is not reduced, which promote economic growth as a result of the

Critical Pedagogy And How It Benefit The Educational System

Critical Pedagogy Primer by Joe Kincheloe presents interesting insight on critical pedagogy as he explained how this is relevant within our educational system. Reading this article helped me gain more of an understanding of critical pedagogy and how it benefits the educational system. Kincheloe (2004) said, â€Å"proponents of critical pedagogy understand that every dimension of schooling and every form of educational practice is a politically contested space. Shaped by history and challenged by a wide range of interest groups, educational practice is a fuzzy concept as it takes place in numerous settings, is shaped by a plethora of often-invisible forces, and can operate even in the name of democracy and justice to be totalitarian and oppressive.† Historically, the process of education has been a part of the political sphere for better or for worse as our educational system is a reflection of our society’s current political state. Ideally, when education professionals are acting within their purposeful agency, the traditional ideolgies and political slants are threatened. An example of when educational professionals are acting within their purposeful agency is when I was an In-School Dentention Teacher (ISD) at a particular school in Toledo Public Schools (TPS). During my time of being an ISD Teacher I was an independent contractor through JLJ Vision Outreach. When we negotiated any contracted services, we colaborated with administrators in the creation of the programShow MoreRelatedThe New Learner : The Implication For Teaching And Learning Essay1526 Words   |  7 Pagesforever changing and it has come to affect how we teach and learn as a society. More so that learning has moved beyond the normal classroom frame and into everyday learning. Things such as lifestyle, technology and Pedagogy have impacted the approach to teaching and learning. These three things come with challenges of their own and the approach taken can make or break the stude nt’s school experience. The New Learner in most areas is entering an educational environment that is predesigned to suit his/herRead MoreThe Humanities Curriculum Project: A Case Study1237 Words   |  5 Pagesï » ¿The educational process, regardless of the various ways in which it is organized in areas from all over the world, is based on an underlying set of aims which reflect the kind of society that its people wish to configure. School subjects are, after all, only vehicles to achieve certain ends: they are not self-justifying entities (White, 2003, p. 1). In this sense, the purpose of secondary or high schools transcends preparation for university and ought to project goals pertaining to continuousRead MoreWhy I Would Become A Teacher1497 Words   |  6 Pagesbrighten someone’s day, and an opportunity to listen to what our youth is telling us when no seems to care or to listen to them. I define strong democracy exactly as Benjamin Barber (1989) does where it is not simply a system whereby people elect those who govern them, but a system in which every member of the community participates in self-governance. Democratic education also brings democratic values to education, such as equality, justice, respect, trust and encourages individuality. Each personRead MoreHow Critical And Creative Thinking2197 Words   |  9 PagesThe education system in Australia has been undergoing intense changes with the introduction of the new Australian National Curriculum, which reflects the earlier policy outlined in the Melbourne Declaration (MCEETYA, 2008). The new curriculum places emphasis on integrating Cross- Curriculum Priorities (CCPs) and General Capabilities (GCs) across different key learning areas (KLAs), which encompasses student’s knowledge, skills, behaviour and dispositions. This will assist students to live and workRead MoreA Strategy For Raising Curriculum Implementation1390 Words   |  6 Pagestheory of learning that describes the central role that learners’ ever-transforming mental schemes play in their cognitive growth, constructivism powerfully informs educational practice (Brooks and Brooks, 1999). With the new curriculums in Turkey, Ministry of National Education (MONE) tries to encounter these changes in Turkish education system based on this theory but it faced with low implementation rate issue. In this paper, the main factors of these challenges will be analyzed. Based on these mattersRead MoreThe Theory Of Self Efficacy1645 Words   |  7 Pagesin these areas is due to the fact that the teachers are not trained or familiar with this climate and offend time these are young and inexperienced teachers from middle class backgrounds. According to the research the multicultural diversity and or how to teach in these climates needs to provide as part of the curriculum. The research also suggest that even the educators w ho are well qualified to teaching the areas lack the confidence to properly educate these students. According to (Bandura, 1997;Read MoreWhat Are Teachers, Educators, And Educators Preparing For This Change?1483 Words   |  6 Pagesevery school year, while teaching and instructional practices remain the same. In fact, Ladson-Billings states in an educational article that â€Å"it has become commonplace to point out that while the US teaching force is increasingly white, middle-class, and female, the nation’s PK-12 student population is growing significantly more diverse† (Ladson-Billings). So the question remains: How are teachers, administrators, and educators preparing for this change? After all, education is not only a process thatRead MoreThe Impact Of Social Construction On Society Curriculum3224 Words   |  13 Pagesthat you have a better understanding of where you are now, so that the steps you take are always in the right direction.† (Covey, 1989, p.98) While embarking upon completion of a unit or creating a curriculum having a beginning and end, an d knowing how to get there is so important. As an educator, it is evident that sometimes when a new year starts, or in planning/creating lessons, we have a destination to get to in teaching, but the plan lacks important aspects, the main ingredients. Due to thisRead MoreDifferent Types Of Adult Learning1744 Words   |  7 Pagesparticipation and social justice for all. The model should ensure that there is political, economic and social systems which bring freedom to all whether old or young. Philosophers have suggested emancipatory learning to be instrumental in nature as it has been designed to serve the profiting systems (Merriam, 2010). The model is ensuring that the adults are transforming professionalism and establishing systems in which adult education is viewed as a commodity and the students as consumers. Research has shownRead MoreCritical Thinking And Problem Solving Skills1648 Words   |  7 PagesCritical thinking and problem solving skills have epitomised education throughout history. As time has passed; the education system has become increasingly complex with the integration of learning theories, pedagogies, transformative learning spaces, behavioural management and most importantly; the evolution and role of technology. Learners within the 21st Century are experiencing an education where they are taught to collaboratively communicate and construct new understandings, while acquiring higher

Religion Shaping America Essay - 895 Words

The functionality of America would not be as novel or ingenious without religion, a monumental influence in the building of the United States. If we trace back hundreds of years to colonial times, religion acted as the absolute driving force that convinced colonists that America was the new haven they had been looking for. It also contributed long lasting moral, social, and political impacts seen in countless movements reflecting the christian ideals of truth, life without sin, and altruism, or good works. Lastly, religious liberty is a major campaign so trite that one will find religious tolerance laws in every state as well as various religious tolerance groups with ease. Patently, the rudiments of religion are responsible for shaping†¦show more content†¦The Puritans were a group of congregationalists that didnt support the Anglican church because the church was too catholic.They also believed reformation was needed and an egalitarian environment was necessary. The found ing of religion gave birth to quite a few contentions between separate groups, raising moral dialectics. These moral bickers from religion fueled groups to spread their specific beliefs or ideals. For example, in the year 1769 Spanish Missionaries, led by Junipero Serra, attempted to christianize those Native Americans who habited California. The missionaries accumulated thousands of semi-nomadic Indians to strong missions which taught ideas like horticulture. Missionaries fiercely shoved the idea of christianity down the throats of the natives, yet they did so with retaliation. It was common for the natives to violently rebel against the religious influences pushing into their private, peaceful lives. Also, French-Catholic Missionaries called Jesuits, attempted to save Native Americans and convert them into Christianity. Jesuits went as far as to try and convert Native Americans even though they were rebellious to the point of violence, like the Native Americans in California. A ma jority of the Jesuits attempts failed because copious amounts of the conversions were not permanent. In the small world of politics and religion, philosopher John Locke emphasized the separationShow MoreRelatedShaping Colonial America Essay887 Words   |  4 PagesMany different things affected the shaping of colonial America in the new world. Factors such as colonialism, geography, and religion affected the way North America was formed and dictated how other people look at colonial America. Colonialism affected America’s demographic and also the ease of forming colonies in the new world. Geography also played a roll in shaping the identity of America. Geography affected where people settled based on the layout of rivers, ocean, and waterways. People alsoRead MoreAmerican Culture: Religion and the Romanticism Movement805 Words   |  3 PagesAmerican Culture: Religion and the Romanticism Movement For decades, religious aspects have constantly changed, been opposed, and have also influenced the American Culture. Much controversy is involved in religion because of the effect it has on the nation and how it reflects upon significant political figures. From early to mid-1800, Romanticism, a period involving literature, art, and theoretical ideas, impacted America as well, although it originated in Europe. Religion and Romanticism helpedRead MoreNative Americans And Christianity During Nineteenth Century America1065 Words   |  5 PagesMarissa Moran Dr. Carayon HIST 384 11 November 2014 Native Americans and Christianity in Eighteenth Century America Eighteenth century New England was a place of spiritual revival affecting more than just unevangelized colonists but people of all races and religions, including Native Americans. Between the years 1700 and 1820, there was a series of movements, known collectively as the Great Awakening, which consisted of localized religious resurgences that involved several denominations of ChristianityRead MoreWestern Culture And Its Influence On Modern Culture1235 Words   |  5 Pagesscratch the surface of institution’s influence on America. This is not to say that the prevalence of these institutions is not specific to the United States’ culture, but present in all cultures labeled as inherently â€Å"western.† The concept of institution is an idea constructed by humans, and as a human construct, the idea must have implemented itself successfully into human culture to be present today. Western culture (today primarily North America and Europe), has developed from a focus o n a strongRead MoreThe Impact Of British Imperialism On Modern India1244 Words   |  5 PagesIntroduction The purpose of this historical inquiry is to analyze to what extent did British Imperialism have an effect on shaping modern India? The main source that will be discussed in this paper is the seventh book of the Spotlight on History Series called The British Raj, which explains the reasons behind the conflicts between the British Empire and Indian nationalism and assess the achievements of a memorable relationship. The whole notion behind imperialismRead MoreCommunity, Individuals, And Religious Liberty1415 Words   |  6 Pagesout on their journeys westward to explore the New World. From the Pilgrims, who came to America aboard the Mayflower, to the Puritans, who later came across their sacred â€Å"city upon a hill,† hundreds of thousands of people eagerly set sail across the Atlantic Ocean on the premise of escaping the King’s tyranny and the unchecked religious persecution in their homeland. The desire for freedom to practice religion created an impression of a land of perfect liberty, where each man has the autonomy to leadRead MoreThe Story Of A Man Named Matthias1357 Words   |  6 Pagesthrough exploiting people through religion. During the rise of market society the mixing of religions brought about new struggles in society like never before. Mattias starts out in a rural town being raised,eventually though he moves out headed towards New York. Where market society is s tarting to thrive. He meets a girl and gets married. Has kids at builds a fortune as a skilled carpenter. After some failed business ventures he starts to turn to different religions. One after another they start toRead MoreThe Revolutionary War Of Independence1366 Words   |  6 PagesRevolution which began as a War of Independence for American quickly transformed into a civil battle between the American patriots and loyalists joined by Indian forces. This war of independence, irrefutably, had a great effect on the citizens of America in varying degrees. The revolution, of course, gave a free rein to unforeseen political revolutions which often spark social revolutions. However, the American Revolution has foreseen the beginning of an abolitionist movement for African AmericanRead MoreAmerica s Influence On The Building Of The United States1190 Words   |  5 PagesThe functionality of America would not be the same without religion, it has been a monumental influence in the build ing of the United States. Over the course of American history, the ideas and influence of religion has played a significant role in shaping the lives of people and the culture of the nation. Throughout the 1600s, 1700s, and 1800s, groups such as the Puritans, Great Awakening preachers, and abolitionists left a lasting Christian legacy on specific peoples such as Native Americans, andRead MoreA Christian Nation Through The Eyes Of A Son Of Indian Immigrants991 Words   |  4 Pagesrealize the influence Christianity has on daily life around the world quite like one who can be considered an â€Å"outsider†. My parents are Sikh immigrants from the Punjab region of India. Even being raised in a Sikh family, I was always familiar with the religion. Our school breaks were scheduled around Christian holidays, we said the Lord’s Prayer before all of our football games, and I was even taken to church, where people who would never sing even in the car, sang to all out of their love for Christ.

Research Undertaken On Kellogg Company- Click for free Solution

Question: Describe about A research is undertaken on Kellogg Company ? Answer: Introduction A research is undertaken on Kellogg Company and the current and future potential of the strategies being pursued by it is studied. The methodology in the research analysis involves five main approaches (Kuada). First, a financial analysis is made on the financial reports of the firm. This analysis is made by comparing it with the performance of the previous year as well as through comparison with its immediate competitor- General Mills Inc.(Kieso, Weygandt and Warfield). Second, an external analysis is made on the firm using the PESTLE analysis and Porters five forces model(Weil and Francis). Third, the internal analysis of the firm is made through a value-chain analysis, resource-based analysis and SWOT analysis. Fourth, the strategies unique to Kellogg company are analyzed and recommendations given regarding future strategies that the management should take (Jiambalvo). Finally, the research is concluded with alternatives of specific strategic actions from the study undertaken History Kelloggs was started by the Kellogg brothers in 1906. It became the worlds leading manufacturer in cereal breakfast. It has manufacturing plants in Asia, UK, Australia, Canada and Latin America. Their wide cereal ranges of products include Kelloggs Corn Flakes, Special K, Rice Krispies, Fruit nFibre and Nutri-Grain cereal bars. Financial Analysis to assess a companys health Financial ratios show comparisons between specific information from the income statement and balance sheet of the company. Comparing the financial performance of Kellogg to the previous year helps to identify problems in the firm which helps management to take strategic decisions. The percentage change is calculated by finding the difference between the current year and the previous year and dividing it by the previous year (Tracy). Financial Analysis Over Time Table 1 Financial Analysis over Time Kellogg Co Current Year 2015 (In $) Prior Year 2014 (In $) % Change Income Statement Sales 13.53B 14.58B -7.23 Gross Profit 4.68B 5.06B -7.5 Selling, General and Admin Expense 3.09B 1.02B 202.9 Net Income 614M 632M -2.8 Balance Sheet Cash 251M 443M -43.3 Inventory 1.25B 1.28B -2.43 Other Current Assets 391M 342M 14.38 Total Assets 15.27B 15.15B 0.79 Current Liabilities 5.74B 4.36B 31.65 Long-term Debt 5.29B 5.94B -10.9 Total Liabilities 13.13B 12.3B 6.75 Retained Earnings 6.6B 6.69B -1.35 Shareholders Equity 2.14B 2.85B -24.9 Liquidity Ratios Current Ratio 0.56 0.77 Quick Ratio 0.35 0.47 Cash Ratio 4% 10% Profitability Ratios Gross Margin 0.35 0.35 Operating Margin 0.08 0.07 Net Profit Margin 0.06 0.06 ROE% 24.97 19.96 ROA% 4.04 4.13 EPS 1.74 1.76 Dividend per share 1.98 1.90 Source: Amigobulls(Amigiobulls) From Table 1, we analyze the financial performance of Kellogg by comparing the present year with its previous year performance In the income statement, the sales have decreased by 7.23% as competitors are capturing consumers of Kellogg. The selling, general and administrative expenses have doubled due to higher salary and high advertising expenses. Kellogg has to improve its sales and decrease costs, though the net income shows only a marginal decrease of 2.8% (Ireland, Hoskisson and Hitt). In the balance sheet, cash at hand has decreased significantly by 43.3% while inventory change is mild. However the total assets have not changed much. The current liabilities have also increased significantly while shareholders' equity has declined. The total liability has increased slightly while retaiing earnings have declined marginally(Gibson). This shows that liabilities are increasing and assets are decreasing when compared to the previous year in Kellogg The quick ratio and the current ratio below 1 shows that the ability of the firm to meet its short term obligations is decreasing, which does not speak well of the profitability of the business(Vandyck). The gross profit margin and the net profit margin are the same which show that there is no growth in the company and management inefficiency. The ROE has increased over time showing that the market value of the equity share has improved showing good performance of equity capital (Beccalli and Poli) Return on assets which show the efficiency and profitability of the business has marginally decreased. This tells that the assets available for generating income have come down to show the efficiency of management has also come down marginally(Palmer). The Earnings per share (EPS) which helps to assess the profits available per share is also marginally down and dividend per share is also down(Murthy and Gurusamy). Financial Health in comparison with competitor Table 2 Financial health of Kellogg in comparison with its closest competitor- General Mills Inc. (GIS) 2015 Case Firm Kellogg (in $) % Closest Competitor(s) GIS (in $) % Income Statement Sales 13.53B 100% 17.63B 100% Gross Profit 4.68B 34.58 5.95B 33.74 Selling, General and Administrative Expenses 3.59B 26.53 3.87B 21.95 Net Income 614M 4.53 1.53B 8.67 Balance Sheet Cash 251M 1.64 334.2M 1.52 Receivables 1.34B 8.77 1.39B 6.32 Inventory 1.25B 8.19 1.54B 7.01 Total Current Assets 3.24B 21.21 3.79B 17.25 Total Assets 15.27B 100 21.96B 100 Total Current Liabilities 5.74B 43.71 4.89B 29.52 Total Liabilities 13.13B 100 16.57B 100 Retained Earnings 6.6B 308 11.99B 222 Shareholders Equity 2.14B 100 5.39B 100 Source: Morning Star(MorningStar) The income statement compared to sales, shows that GIS has a bigger turnover in sales. The gross profits are almost the same, but the net income is double that of Kellogg as its expenses are less than that of Kellogg (Nasdaq). The Balance Sheet shows that GIS has a high asset figure, though its current assets and receivables are lower than Kellogg. The current liabilities of GIS are almost half of Kellogg. This shows that Kellogg is underperforming due to consumers switching brands and purchasing from its competitors. Table 3 Financial Ratios for Case firm and closest competitor for 2015 Ratio Case Firm Kellogg Co Closest Competitor(s) GIS Current Ratio 0.56 0.81 Quick Ratio 0.35 0.52 Debt-to-equity Ratio 6.17 1.44 Debt-to-total Assets Ratio 50.83 38.11 Inventory Turnover(TTM) 6.88 7.09 Total Asset Turnover 0.89 0.78 Gross Profit Margin 0.35 0.34 Net Profit Margin 0.45 0.50 Return on Assets 4.02 8.42 Return on Equity 28.85 34.88 Source: Market Watch (MarketWatch) On analysis of the ratios the profitability ratios (current and quick ratios) show better performance though both are below the required level of 1. Both firms are not able to meet financial obligations, though GIS shows better performance than Kellogg. The debt to equity is better in GIS, while debt to assets show poor performance as debts surpass assets in both firms. The gross profit and net profit margin are on the same footing while the return on equity is good in both firms. The return on assets is marginally better in GIS when compared to Kellogg. External Analysis of Kellogg The external analysis of Kellogg is studied through a general study of the environment through the PESTLE analysis and Porters Five Forces Strategies to look into the industry dynamics. General environment Kellogg Company sells its products in 180 countries. As a global food company, its main objective is to nourish families with breakfast foods, snacks and frozen meals through its array of taste preference and dietary needs(Kellogg). PESTLE Analysis The PESTEL analysis helps to identify macro-environmental forces that affect the business such as Political, Economic, Social, Technological, Legal and environmental factors to identify key factors (Baxter). Political: The U S have drawn new reforms for obese children with focus on cereal products intake(Helpisch). Economical The financial downturn has deteriorated the financial supply in the hands of the people thereby affecting the food market. The increasing unemployment rate, decreasing GDP, increasing inflation rate and low rate of the dollar has decreased sales while increasing competition. Social: With importance given to health and nutrition, intake of cereal foods is on the increase. The obesity factor -among children and adults has also improved, the demand for light food.. Technological: Increasing costs for RD as well as advertisement has decreased the profits made by firms. Recycled packaging are more in demand with environment-friendly consumers. Legal: The American Health Association has increased the number of health claims among the American citizens. Price war due to globalization (need for standardized food) and competition has its impact on the industry. Environmental: Recyclable packages and ecological packagings have increased costs. Demand has increased with demand for natural and fiber foods(Taylor)(Johnson) Porters Five Forces Michael E Porter developed a strategic approach to assess various competitive forces that affects a firm and provided a model to formulate strategies that can raise barrier forces and take advantage of these forces. He identifies these forces as (Michael): Competition: The industry has many large competitors such as General Mills Inc., Kraft. Price competition is high and intense with each firm trying to capture the market Substitution: The cereal industry has many substitutes due to private labels which are available at cheaper rates. Threat of Entry Barriers to entry is high as it involves high capital expenditure; access to distribution channels is tough and brand loyalty is high The bargaining power of buyers: The cereal industry has a low buying power and does not influence the buying market The bargaining power of suppliers: With private labels, products are available at cheaper rates from suppliers who are agricultural producers of cereals(Porter and Norton, Financial Accounting: The Impact on Decision Makers) . Internal Analysis of Kellogg1. The primary goal of managers is to identify the strength and weakness of the firm along with the external opportunities and threats. The internal analysis of Kelloggs is done by Value-chain analysis Resource-based view on the firm SWOT Analysis Fujii) Value Chain Analysis: This analysis helps to understand the cost position and identify multiple means to facilitate implementation of a chosen business-level strategy (Porter and Norton, Using Financial Accounting Information: The Alternative to Debits and Credits)(Tybout and Calder, Kellogg on Marketing). Two activities involved are: Primary Activities Inbound Logistics The quality of the product is maintained by having good suppliers who also deal with the manufacturing, packaging and transport of services. Operations As Kellogg has a global market, it has an office in each country in which it function which can transform its raw materials into finished products ready for sale Outbound Logistics The end product has to reach the consumer, and this is done through a multi-layer channel system. Marketing Sales Kellogg has achieved brand loyalty with consumers identifying its products Steps to increase brand awareness are also taken Service: Providing consumer service through good products according to customers taste and environment friendly packages are services done for the consumer Support Activities Firm Infrastructure: Kellogg has satisfied its customers by providing various services that suits it customers and the organization. Services offered are quality product that cater to taste and preference of consumers, quality control measures, good internal control, etc. Human Resource Management Performance measures are made to develop healthy competition and bring in better staff performance Merit rewards are awarded to motivate employees Kellogg Business Leaders Model has helped in the quality of staff performance and progress of the company Kelloggs recruits staff on an international basis giving preference to staff quality Training for individual career performance helps in better attitude of the staff Technology Development With consumers becoming more health conscious, RD expenditure on nutrition and health is high Special cereals for men is the new product developed Procurement As competition is high with price-wars, costs of raw-material purchase has to be economical Resource-based Analysis The resources of Kellogg Company are tangible, intangible and capabilities. Tangible resources are resources that are clearly visible. Kellogg has its outlets at strategic location and specifically trained employees as its strength, though workers are available at low salaries to competitors Intangible resources are resources that are not visible, but gained through its good reputation, high brand image, quality products and value of the company. It has built a sustainable competitive advantage which would be difficult to replicate. Capabilities such as innovative capabilities and marketing capabilities help to transform enterprises to achieve company performances. SWOT Analysis The SWOT Analysis is a simple planning tool. If used correctly, the managers can develop a smart marketing plan that serves as a catalyst for proper planning. However, it is criticized because it does not give serious consideration to the issues and is considered as a sterile academic exercise that classifies information and data(Ferrell and Hartline) . Strength It is a leading fiber brand in the market It follows a high corporate social responsibility and environment awareness It has computerized warehousing(Baran and Galka) Weakness Awareness about the brand is weakening Advertising investment is high as it has limited scale Inner health is the new concept that consumers prefer to fiber food Opportunities People are interested in healthy food There is a boom in the baby market as well as in consumers over the age of 55 Internet advertising Threats It faces competition from General Mills and Kraft Consumers prefer the taste with nutrition Private label growth(Dranove and Marciano) Strategies of Kellogg and strategies of competitors Competing Firms in the Food Processing Industry Some of the competitors of Kellogg are General Mills Inc. (GIS), Cascadian Farms, Kraft and store brand cereals. However, its biggest competitor is General Mills. Health consciousness, population growth rate, price of raw materials and grains, per capita disposable income Kellogg is a leading manufacturer of ready to eat cereal as well as convenience goods. It holds 34.2% market in cereal foods in the US. It has posted consistent net profit and sales revenue . Kraft Foods Inc. is a large beverage and food company in North America. It is also the second largest in the world. After acquiring Cadbury in 2010, Kraft has strong revenue and operating profit earnings in all snack segments. General Mills are global food manufacturers selling consumer foods through retail stores. They supply to baking industries and food services Kellogg: Firm under Study Strategic Intent The mission statement is to drive sustainable growth through the power of our people and brands by better serving the needs of our consumers, customers and communities. Its vision is to be the food company of choice. Kellogg Company is a long-time industry leader in marketing and innovation. The value statement is we build great brands and make the world a little happier by bringing our best to you It is the global leader in its production of cereals, crackers, cookies, toaster pastries, fruit-flavored snacks, veggie foods and frozen waffles. Its brand includes KelloggsKeebler, Eggo, Pop-Tarts, Mini-Wheats, Nutri-Grain, Rice Krispies, Famous Amos, Austin, Sandies, Murray, Bear, Gardenburger, Monringstar Farms and Stretch Island (Johnson). Strategic Organization The board of directors has assistance from three committees: the Audit Committee, Compensation Committee and the Nominating Committee. Kellogg has a multi-divisional organization structure. It gives autonomy to its local units to function within the overall values and goals of the headquarters (Gupta, Gollakota and Srinivasan). Corporate Strategies To have sustainable growth by introducing a nutritious product, improving brand name and packaging To grow its cereal market and expand in snacks To have realistic targets(Hitt, Ireland and Hoskisson). Marketing Strategies With breakfast cereal sales sliding in the US, cereal makers are using various strategies to reclaim their business. Kellogg, which is the worlds largest cereal producer is using new tactics on its old brand such as Disney Frozen-themed cereal and Special K Protein. New product lines are also introduced that includes granola and muesli cereals. General Mills, makers of iconic cereals like Lucky Charms, Wheaties and Cheerios is taking steps to eliminate artificial color and flavor from 90% of its cereals by 2016. Products like Reeses Puffs and Cocoa Puffs and Trix will be the first to be introduced with artificial ingredients by the end of this year- 2016. Kraft also excludes preservatives and synthetic color from its cheese and macaroni(DiPierro). Competitive Advantage No threat of new entrants: As a well-established brand with cereal as an established product, Kellogg does not face threat from new entrants Employees: Kellogg Company has its employees as its competitive advantage. Mr.Kellogg realized that employees were the key to his success and hence provided the right working environment for his employees. Success came with successful employees. Farm Power: The customers of Kelloggs are wholesalers as they decide if they are going to sell Kelloggs cereals in their stores. However, the power of Kelloggs is their contact with farmers directly which provides raw-materials from the farm to the firm (Johnson). Website: Kellogg Company manages its website well to keep a watch over the external environement. 6Specific Strategic Actions Kellogg owes its success to knowledge management, which involves identifying consumer preference and taste; translating these preferences into products; linking these products to its brand equity, reinvigorating its brand equity and maintains the interest of children. Dont Change Anything Foundational functional resources and capabilities: This is founded on its link to agricultural growers and mills. By maintaining this contact, it can get its raw material (cereals) at low rates that will bring down costs. Branded servicing and operations will help to keep its competitors away. The focus can also be given to acquire organic cereals to cater to health conscious consumers and to keep up with competitors(MccGuigan, Moyer and Harris). Creative marketing and innovative R D have helped Kellogg to keep up its standard of new products that customers taste and prefer. Kellogg can improve its advertising campaigns through quality benchmarks- to bring familiarity to its product to its customers. It can also rely on cartoon spokespersons in its advertising campaign to capture demand for its brand(Iacobucci) Strategies that should be improvise upon Human resources: Maintaining highly committed employees through training and development(Henry) Supply Chain: Acquiring diverse and the very best in the supplier base RD: By following the principle of pioneer and not follower, it can lead the market Finance: High growth with high returns should be its objective Social Betterment: Focus on stockholder value, customer relations and work for societal betterment Customers: Wal-Mart is one of the top five customers of Kellogg, accounting for one-fourth of its revenue. Kellogg has to strive to get new customers and also look into providing new products to its aging customers (Tybout and Calkins, Kelloggs on Branding: The Marketing Faculty of The Kellogg School of Management). Changes Needed Kellogg has acquired a name for monopolizing the market and overpricing. By restructuring its price strategy through reduced costs, it can capture a wider market. Strategic recommendations for Kellogg To increase advertisement and attract Generation Z who have more customer loyalty To expand its snack catalogue to all age groups, especially targeting men who are becoming more health conscious Conclusion The company analysis on Kellogg has been undertaken through this research study through financial analysis, internal and external analysis through individual analysis by comparison with its competitors and with previous year performance. To an investor, the stock cannot be recommended for investment currently, though it can be kept in the watch list. There are companies in the same sector that can be invested in. Though it is a great company, it is not a good stock to invest in. To investors, strategies that have to be continued and new strategies to be implemented are given. Works Cited Amigiobulls. "Amigobulls stocks." 24 March 2016. Amigobulls. 27 March 2016 https://amigobulls.com/stocks/K/balance-sheet/annual. Baran, Roger and Robert Galka. CRM: The Foundation of Contemporary Marketing Strategy. London: Routledge, 2013. Baxter, Taylor F. Newbies Guide to Pestle Analysis. New York: CreateSpace Independent Publishers, 2015. Beccalli, Elena and Federica Poli. Bank Risk, Governance and Regulation. 2015: Palgrave Macmillan, New York. DiPierro, Amy. "General Mills, Kellogg's Battle to Reclaim Breakfast Tables." The Street 6 23 2015: 1-5. Dranove, David and Sonia Marciano. Kellogg on Strategy:Concepts, Tools, and Frameworks for Practitioners. Vol. 2. Daryaganj: Wiley India (P) Ltd., 2007. Ferrell, O C and Michael D Hartline. Marketing Strategy. South-Western: Cengage Learning, 2011. Fujii, Tomohisa. IT Global Competency Skill and Knowledge for IT Engineer. Sydney: Cengage Learning, 2013. Gibson, Charles H. Financial Reporting and Analysis Using Financial Accounting Information. South-Western: Cengage Learning, 2009. Gupta, Vipin, Kamala Gollakota and Srinivasan. Business Policy and Strategic Management: Concepts and Applications. New Delhi: PHI Learning, 2009. Helpisch, Yves. Python for Finance: Analyze Big Financial Data. New York: O'Reilly Media Inc, 2014. Henry, Anthony. Understanding Strategic Management. New York: Oxford University Press, 2011. Hitt, Michael, Duane Ireland and Robert Hoskisson. Strategic Management: Competitveness and Globalization. South-Western: Thomson Learning, 2007. Iacobucci, Dawn, ed. Kellogg on Marketing: The Kellogg Marketing Faculty. New York: John Wiley Sons, 2001. Ireland, Duane, Robert Hoskisson and Michael Hitt. Understanding Business Strategy Concept Plus. Vol. II. South-Western: Cengage Learning, 2012. Jiambalvo, James. Managerial Accounting. Danvers: John Wiley and Sons, 2010. Johnson, Jennifer. "Kelloggs Strategic Management." 16 February 2012. Kelloggs History . 28 March 2016 . Kellogg. "Kellogg Compay: Corporate Responsibility." 2012 Corporate Responsibility Report Workplace (2012): 1-15. Kieso, Donald, Jerry Weygandt and Terry Warfield. Intermediate Accounting, Volume 2. London: Royal Publishers, 2012. Kuada, John. Research Methodology: A Project Guide for University Students. Mason: Samfunds Literature, 2012. MarketWatch. "Investing Stock Profile." 26 March 2016. Market Watch. 26 Market Watch 2016 https://www.marketwatch.com/investing/stock/k/profile. MccGuigan, James, Charles Moyer and Fredrick Harris. Managerial Economics: Applications, Strategy and Tactics. South-Western: Thomas Learning Inc, 2008. Michael, Porter. Michael E Porter on Competition. Boston: Harvard Business School Publishing, 2013. MorningStar. "Financials-Morning Star." 28 March 2016. Morning Star. 28 March 2016 https://financials.morningstar.com/ratios/r.html?t. Murthy, A and Gurusamy. Management Accounting. New Delhi: Tata McGraw-Hill, 2009. Nasdaq. "Stock comparison." 27 March 2016. Nasdaq. 27 March 2016 https://www.nasdaq.com/symbol/gis/stock-comparison. Palmer, Joseph. Financial Ratio Analysis: Technical Consulting Practice Aid. Indiana: AICPA, 2010. Porter, Gary A and Curtis L Norton. Financial Accounting: The Impact on Decision Makers. South Western: Cengage Learning, 2013. . Using Financial Accounting Information: The Alternative to Debits and Credits. Vol. II. South-Western: Cengage Learning, 2013. Scruggs, Thomas and Margo Mastropieri, Applications of Research Methodology. San Diego: Elsevier, 2006. Taylor, Stephen. Managing in a Business Context. London: CIPD House, 2005. Tracy, Axel. Ratio Analysis Fundamentals: How to Analyse any Business on the Planet. Sussex: Natural Selection Inc, 2012. Tybout, Alice and Bobby Calder, Kellogg on Marketing. 2nd Edition. Hoboken: John Wiley Sons, Inc., 2010. Tybout, Alice and Tim Calkins. Kelloggs on Branding: The Marketing Faculty of The Kellogg School of Management. Vol. II. New Jersey: John Wiley Sons, 2011. Vandyck, Charles K. Financial Ratio Analysis: A Handy Guideboodk. Ghana: Trafford Publishing, 2006. Weil, Roman, Schipper, Katherine and Jennifer Francis. JenniferFinancial Accounting: An Introduction to Concepts, Methods and Uses. London: Cengage Learning, 2014.