This paper presents a study of Greyhound, a company that initially found success in the bus transportation industry but has since diversified into a wide range of industries.
Abstract The following paper explores why Greyhound is encountering problems with the symptoms being-- ineffective integration and management of diverse business units and a responsive instead of a proactive approach to changes in the environment. This paper identifies three base problems behind these symptoms: a problematic corporate culture, unclear goals and a lack of competitive advantage. After analyzing the problems, offering several alternative solutions and future scenarios, the writer recommends that Greyhound conduct a full analysis into both its internal environment and its external environment. This paper also recommends that Greyhound reduce its assets and focus on developing in one specific area, namely healthcare, diversifying by increasing its product line and increasing its global markets, rather than diversifying into various industries.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Executive Summary
Overview
Problem Definition
Corporate Culture Problematic
Goals of the Business Unclear
Lack of Competitive Advantage
Integration of Businesses Ineffective
Responsive not Proactive Approach
Alternatives
Conduct Comprehensive Analysis on the Organization
Continue With Current Strategy
Separate Business Units
Decide on One Business Unit and Sell Off the Remainder
Move Into New Area
Scenarios
Recommendations
Implementation
From the Paper ?As companies grow they expand, with this expansion intended to improve the situation of the company. Greyhound is an example of a company that was initially successful and has since used its success to expand into diverse markets. This expansion, though, has not been successful for Greyhound. The main problem we see is how to integrate and effectively manage many different functions that have little relationship to each other. With Greyhound, we also see an example of a company that has not responded to the environment, but has maintained a culture and goals that may have been successful in its beginnings in the 1930's but are not successful in the current environment. We see a company that has no clear mission, has a corporate culture that does not match the current environment and is based on finding markets where there is no competition, rather than finding ways to compete. Essentially, Greyhound is a company that has not changed as the environment has changed. The reality is though, that the current environment is very competitive and is likely to only increase in competitiveness. There is a need then for Greyhound to reassess its position and use its assets to move in new directions.?
Abstract This paper explains that Enron, which started in 1985 with the merger of Houston Natural Gas Company of Houston, Texas, and the natural gas company, InterNorth, based in Omaha, Nebraska, originally operated interstate gas pipelines but, in 1989, diversified into trading energy-related products. The author points out that, in addition to its trading in energy, Enron started trading in cellulose, pulp, paper, fertilizer, plastic, metals, and bandwidth. By 1999, Enron was involved in nearly a quarter of the energy deals worldwide. The paper relates that Enron's central strategy was to use totally the financial and derivatives in the market to acquire any commodities, from oil and natural gas to electric power generation and pipeline capacity, broadband communication, and freight capacity of modular containers, all at any price demanded. This corporate greed led to its downfall.
From the Paper "Enron launched the New Power Company, the first national energy service in May 2000 along with its new strategic investors IBM and America Online. The New Power Company was created to provide energy services for residential and small businesses in the US, where deregulations in the energy market were introduced. In early 2001, Jeff Skilling took over as Enron's chief executive officer from Ken Lay. In October 2001, the tables were turned again and Ken Lay returned as chief executive officer with Jeff Skilling having resigned in August. Shortly afterwards in 2002 investigations into corporate crimes and accountancy fraud were initiated on Enron leading to sharp share prices fall and the collapse of the Enron empire."
Addresses the changes that the Omani economy underwent within a 25-year period and the challenges, such as oil depletion, insufficient work force and un-diversified economy that the country is currently facing.
Abstract The accession to the throne of sultan Qaboos ibn Said inn 1970 marked the beginning of considerable political and economic changes in Oman. Realizing the importance of internal and local stability, the sultanate started coming out of its political isolation, forming alliances in the Middle East and maintaining good diplomatic relations with the western powers. Overall, sultan Qaboos supported a non-aligned foreign policy, determined by what is of best interest to the country. Alongside, the regime gradually modernized the country in an effort to develop the economy and attract foreign investment. Although infrastructural improvements, social changes, and economic reforms were progressively undertaken, the country still faces the challenges of its overdependence on oil and shortage of Omani labor force. As Omani oil reserves are depleting, the transition from rentier to a more diversified economy is imperative to the future economic growth of the sultanate. This paper explores the economy of Oman during the period of 1980-2004 and how it was affected by the regime's internal reforms, its involvement in the resolution of the local conflicts and its diplomatic ties with the U.S.
Paper Outline:
Introduction
Oman and the Gulf Cooperation Council
Gulf War: Consequences
Iran-Iraq War and its Impact on Omani Economy and Political Stability
Omani Economy: Problems and Challenges
Social Reforms
Foreign Investment
U.S.- Omani Relations
Military Expenditure
Conclusion
Bibliography
From the Paper "The signing of the Facility Access Agreement secured the positions of the regime, provided American economic support and expertise, and was crucial to establishing peace during the Gulf War. Also, Omani military alliance with the U.S. allowed the sultanate to divert some of the military spending and undertake more social reforms. Economically, the sultan introduced crucial reforms to make Oman an attractive investment destination. However, in order to fully exploit the foreign investment opportunities, the sultanate should fight the high level of corruption and introduce more transparency in the processes of privatization and business attraction."
Abstract This paper examines how P & G has adopted a new trend that is revolutionizing the consumer product industry and how its strategy is to jazz-up their old and yet profitable brands by placing them inside new types of delivery devices to improve the brand image while at the same time boosting pricing on the products. The author points out that by diversifying into new products and markets, such as the purchase of Gillette, the company constantly ensures that it has the necessary product range to attract new customers.
Outline
Introduction
Discussion
The Boston Consulting Group (BCG) Model for P & G's Products
Conclusion
From the Paper "Too much of a good thing can be a bad thing. Constantly restructuring and change can also be damaging. Learning Management Systems (LMS) can help P & G identify tools that can help workers and employees extract the best information from the system and apply it to their operations as needed. Competitiveness of markets and products is increasing and it is imperative that companies that wish to succeed use some form of knowledge gathering and application for all the different operations in the company. The main purpose of any knowledge management strategy is to "reduce errors, create less work, provide more independence in time and space for knowledge workers, generates fewer questions, produces better decisions, reinvents fewer wheels, advances customer relations, improves service, and develops profitability.""
Abstract This paper examines how in today's workplace there are many options for an employee to choose from when thinking of where best to implement his or her skills and talents. It looks at how this diversity of jobs and industries of choices has led to employees making those choices.
From the Paper "In today's workplace, there are so many options for an employee to choose from when thinking of where best to implement his or her skills and talents. This diversity of jobs and industries, of choices, has led to employees making those choices. In a piece on employee retention that will be cited again and again throughout this paper, the Herman Miller Corporation quotes a recent Bureau of Labor report that predicts "a labor shortage of six million workers by 2008" ("Hang on Loosely" 1). And as the huge baby boomer generation, today's largest part of the workforce, ages and retires, this shortage will only worsen. This spells trouble for employers, as the multitude of job choices will only greaten, allowing workers to roam free, choosing the most satisfying jobs and the best pay. "
Abstract The paper presents Diversified Enterprises, Incorporated's statement of discrimination policies. The company explains that they provide this handout as an outline of the requirements of Title VII, so that all employees are aware of their rights and responsibilities under Title VII. The company discusses their compliance with these requirements that outlaw any form of discrimination and sexual harassment. The company claims that they work aggressively to ensure that all anti-discrimination laws are fully carried out.
Outline:
Title VII Requirements
Good Faith Occupational Qualifications
The Law Forbids Retaliation
Ordinary Discipline Is Not Retaliation
Religious Discrimination Is Not Tolerated
The Company Will Try to Provide Reasonable Accommodations
Employee's Responsibilities
Sexual Harassment Is Not Legal
Policy Against Sexual Harassment
Prohibited Behavior
Monitoring
Discipline
Retaliation
Complaint Procedure
From the Paper "The key law which we must follow is Title VII. Title VII is the most important federal law protecting against discrimination in the workplace, but it is not the only law. Other laws prohibit discrimination based on age, pregnancy status, citizenship, disability, or union membership. Because of its preeminence in the field of employment discrimination, the Company has provided this handout as an outline of the requirements of Title VII, so that all employees are aware of their rights and responsibilities under Title VII, and are aware of the responsibilities of the employee under this law."
Abstract This paper discusses the strength and performance of three Internet based companies: Google, Yahoo!, and eBay. The perspective for investment is based on a client with $10 million to invest but who also desires a diversified portfolio. The paper explains that while investing in all three companies is currently a good choice, this by definition is not very diversified, since all three are Internet dependent and based companies. The paper discusses the recommendation that is to place $8 million in the three companies, with most being in Google and the remaining $2 million in more traditionally stable shares such as utilities.
From the Paper "Google is an Internet based company that has captured the imagination of Wall Street as well as Main Street. Google's most recent stock quote was $404 and this price puts it in fairly rarefied company since it refuses to split. Google engages in web search technology where it has developed a business model built on associated service/product placements with every search. Additionally, Google also operates other Internet based lines of business such as AdWords, AdSense, Google GMail, Google Earth, Google Search Appliance and a host of other functionalities that have revolutionized what the Internet has traditionally been used for. Google's financials justify a substantial investment. Its current market capitalization is approximately $119 billion, its price to earnings ratio is 47 times earnings (Google)."
Abstract This paper discusses the policy of diversified workforce which is inherent to the company, UPS. The paper describes the way in which the company supports and encourages different segments of society to join and offer not just their services, but their diversified orientation to the UPS and its customers. The paper also describes UPS' policy of promotion from within, which provides employees with an opportunity for further growth in their respective careers.
Table of Contents:
Employer of Choice
Support from Management Team
Promotion from Within
From the Paper "UPS stands for the policy which provides employees with an opportunity for further growth in their respective careers. Promotions and incentives are offered to the employees periodically on the basis of their performance and achievement. UPS has adopted a stand where employees and employers are not accountable for the development of the company. Employees are provided with possible facilities to work towards bringing enhancement and growth in company's expanding network. In this regard UPS has developed a management team, having deep knowledge and relevant expertise, bringing unparallel success in the company's credit."
Abstract This paper examines how, although it is desirable that the elementary classroom provide a unified approach and atmosphere for educating students, such unity is not always possible in today's diversified classroom. It looks at how the challenges that exist in a diversified classroom are myriad and how regardless of these challenges, it is important to work with the diverse population. The paper further examines the phenomenon of the "achievement gap," "acting white," and the potential effect of the teacher on what is presumed to be peer effects.
Outline:
The "Achievement Gap"
Acting White
Closing the Gap
Discussion and Conclusion
From the Paper "According to Fryer and Levitt (2004) there is a gap between the test scores of white and black students, which widens as these students progress through elementary school and into later grades. This phenomenon exists even when socioeconomic factors, family structure, neighborhood elements, and school quality are accounted for (Fryer & Levitt, 2004, p. 65). In addition, while black students experiencing a widening gap as they progress through school, Hispanic children in the same environment tend to close the achievement gap when they mature, even when faced with "relative inexperience with the English language" (Fryer & Levitt, 2004, p. 65)."
Abstract This paper discusses strategic management and uses the UK credit card, Barclaycard, as a case study. It describes how Barclaycard has continually struggled to further develop their operations and implement strategies such as increasing the customer loyalty or offering a better diversified product palette. The study also shows how Barclaycard is currently seeking to further consolidate their leading position by offering a highly diversified product range.
From the Paper "Barclaycard is a UK based credit card giant. They were the first to introduce the credit card in Great Britain in 1966 and after four decades of existence, they came to be present in more than 60 countries. The institution offers a multitude of solutions for their individual and organizational customers, be them large of small entities. Barclaycard is primarily centered on registering high incomes and achieving and maintaining international success, but in their path to reaching these desiderates, they place an increased emphasis on the full satisfaction of the customers' needs and wants, creating a pleasant and dynamic work environment and sustaining the development of the communities in which they operate (Official Website of Barclaycard, 2008)
"Today, Barclaycard serves over 10 million customers in the UK alone; they also provide services for 85,000 retailers and 5,000 staff. However they are extremely successful, the general status of an unstable global economy, in which borrowing becomes more expensive than ever, is likely to pose some threats. The threats are even more real when Barclaycard is already offering credit cards at prices among the highest ones in the region. "Managing over 10m UK customers, 85,000 retailers, 5,000 staff and offering one of the highest-priced card products, it was not surprising that Barclaycard was under close scrutiny as the inquiry into the credit card industry evolved" (case)."
Abstract Case study analysis of the industrial characteristics and performance of affiliates of MNE? s in India. India's main strategic advantages over other developing countries are the availability of a large pool of highly skilled and technically qualified manpower at a low cost, a highly diversified and relatively well-developed industrial base, which also adds to the availability of experienced engineering and managerial cadres. Large domestics market, and access to primary resources and raw materials such as iron ore, bauxite, jute and tea.
FDI and Comments on the Governments Policy Formulation
for Promotion of MNE? s
Imperative of Attracting Export-Oriented FDI through
MNE? s
A Professional Approach to Promotion
Evolution of Government Policy in Conjunction with
Promotion of MNE? s
Government Policy and Trends in Foreign Investments and
Collaboration
Concluding Remarks
Abstract This paper provides an overview of the economic past, present, and future of Brazil, the most economically productive South American country. The author discusses how the government learned from past mistakes, rather than produce very few goods, the country learned to diversify production and utilize its resources successfully. The paper also examines Brazil's financial standing internationally, in the world markets, and how its growing population is strengthening the economy.
From the Paper "The Federal Republic of Brazil, commonly known as Brazil , is the largest country in South America . It is the fifth most populated country in the world, and still growing quickly. Almost half of that population is under twenty years old. Within its borders are annually flooded lowlands the make for very fertile farming land, highlands that are cover with winding rivers, and the famous Amazon River . With all its natural resources, Brazil is the most powerful and productive country, economically, in South America ; Brazil is also quickly growing to be a major player in world markets. Many major countries, including the US and much of Europe , depend on the exports of Brazil . It is for this reason that Brazil 's economic future is of much importance. (Britannica.com) Even though the past has been full of instability and volatility, changes have been, and are being, made. Thanks to these changes, the future holds more promise for a stable, normal progression."
Abstract The face of the American corporation has changed forever. There are more women and minorities in leadership roles in large corporations and small businesses than ever before, and the trend cannot but continue. This paper examines the serious and deleterious discrimination that minorities and women still face in corporate environments and how these problems are defined by a certain schizophrenic attitude towards their roles. On one hand, companies are pushing to hire more minorities and women in management positions to fit their corporate cultures into a more diversified image, and on the other hand, minorities and women continue to face glass ceilings on advancement, hiring and compensation.
From the Paper "The first step in attracting quality minorities and women into a company's management tiers is a quality recruiting program. The program's focus should be not just on affirmative action quota numbers but on the quality and the enthusiasm and involvement of the managers sought. Julie Bennett paints the picture of the choices a quality minority management candidate has:
"When David Matthews, 37, decided not to follow his employer to another part of the country, he became a highly marketable job candidate. He's an Ivy League-educated African-American with solid experience in a Fortune 500 company. By late last year he was weighing three job offers. Unlike mainstream executives who compare offers on the basis of salary and work environment, Mr. Matthews had another factor to consider: which of the three companies had the most serious commitment to diversity."
An overview of economic, government, historical, religious and cultural factors related to foreign investment and business, focusing on legal issues. Discusses commercial law, contracts, business organizations, labor, taxation, arbitration law andmore.
4,725 words (approx. 18.9 pages), 15 sources, 1999, $ 135.95
Abstract Although the Saudi Arabian government has been attempting to diversify the Saudi economy for over 20 years, the central source of Saudi prosperity is the petroleum industry. The petroleum industry is mature. Hence, the government is beginning to realize that it needs foreign investment in order to decrease the dependence on oil and to encourage sustainable growth and development
From the Paper "DOING BUSINESS IN SAUDI ARABIA: AN OVERVIEW OF THE LEGAL CLIMATE
Introduction
Climate for Investors
Although the Saudi Arabian government has been attempting to diversify the Saudi economy for over 20 years, the central source of Saudi prosperity is the petroleum industry. The petroleum industry is mature. Hence, the government is beginning to realize that it needs foreign investment in order to decrease the dependence on oil and to encourage sustainable growth and development.
Foreign investors look at many factors in making the decision to invest in another country. One of the main factors is the stability of the government. Stability has not been a ..."
An examination of the attempts to diversify curricula to meet multicultural needs of students and society including definition, ebonics, public views, social divisions and values and morality.
2,250 words (approx. 9 pages), 10 sources, 2000, $ 79.95
From the Paper "Ebonics
If people did not know about the attempts being made in American school systems to reach out to a multicultural population before 1996, they certainly found out about it then. When the public school system in Oakland, California, decided to treat the standard speech of black Americans as a separate language or dialect, the issue of multicultural education (which had been discussed and agreed upon and argued over at the local level for at least a decade) became an important part of the national dialogue. Ebonics became a symbol for nearly everyone who thought that something should be changed about the way American schoolchildren are taught, with some people applauding the idea and many others -- and not only conservative whites -- decrying it. An examination of this issue will serve as an introduction to the topic of..."
