Food Supplies: Purchasing, Receipts and Storage

Food Supplies: Purchasing, Receipts and Storage The purchase, receipt and storage of food Choosing a supplier It is essential to purchase food from approved suppliers who have demonstrated a commitment to high standards of food hygiene Controls to minimize hazards from supplies/suppliers Select the least hazardous materials/ingredients e.g. pasteurized egg and ready-prepared vegetables. Specify the standard and quality of product required including the delivery temperature. Branded products usually preferable. Delivery and unloading of food The main hazards associated with deliveries are contaminated food and the multiplication of bacteria as a result of prolonged delays after unloading and before refrigeration. Unsatisfactory delivery vehicles or drivers or drivers may indicate unsatisfactory deliveries. High-risk food should be delivered below 5?, frozen food at-18?. Controls All food should be inspected before placing in storage. Deliveries should be checked for freshness, temperature, colour, odour, contamination, infestations and satisfactory packaging and labeling. Contaminated food from unapproved sources, perishable food above 8?, frozen food above -15?, food with evidence of pest activity and food which is not covered or in damaged packaging or which is out of date is suspect and may need to be rejected. The supervisor and the supplier should usually be notified. As far as practicable, external packaging should not be brought into food preparation areas. A separate deboxing area is recommended. Unloading should be completed as quickly as possible. Staff should be trained to deal with deliveries effectively and to prevent contamination occurring. Records of deliveries should be retained to enable traceability in the event or food poisoning or a food complaint. Safe food storage Correct storage is fundamental to the hygienic operation of any food business. Failure to ensure satisfactory in the event of food poisoning or a food complaint. Safe food storage Correct storage is fundamental to the hygienic operation of any food business. Failure to enable satisfactory storage conditions will result in hazards (contamination and multiplication of bacteria), mould, spoilt food, discoloration, staleness and pest infestation. Dry food stores Rooms used for storage of cereals, dried and canned foods should be suitable for this purpose, vermin-proof and kept clean and tidy. Hazards encountered include soiled delivery trays, pest infestations, damaged and leaking cartons, out-of-date stock, soil from root vegetables and chemical contamination. Controls Keep stores dry, cool, well lit and well ventilated. Effective pest control measures, storage of food at least 15cm above the floor and stock rotation systems are essential. Care with deboxing/opening sacks will avoid foreign body contamination. Food should be stored away from the walls and pipes affected by condensation and on suitable shelves such as tubular stainless steel racks, or in mobile rodent-proof bins. Spillages should be cleared away promptly. If possible, fruit and vegetables should be stored separately from other food. Fruit should be examined regularly as mould spreads rapidly. Vegetables heavily contaminated with soil should be stored below, for example, fruit or lettuce on the vegetable rack. Potatoes should be stored in the dark to prevent sprouting or turning green. A separate store should be used for storing cleaning chemicals. Blown, badly dented, seam-damaged, holed or rusty cans should be rejected. Staff should be trained to store food correctly, to remove spi llages, how to rotate stock and to recognize signs of pests and unfit food. Chilled storage High-risk and perishable foods should be stored under refrigeration to prevent most pathogenic bacteria bacteria from multiplying and to slow down the rate of spoilage. Refrigerators and freezers should be sited in well-ventilated areas away from heat sources, such as oven and the rays of the sun. Operating temperatures and monitoring Refrigerators usually operate between 1? to 4?. The display temperature should be checked every time the fridge is used. It should be recorded at least twice a day. The actual food temperature should be recorded at least weekly and whenever the display temperature is unsatisfactory. temporary rises in display temperatures will occur if doors are left open or a large quantity of food at room temperature are loaded into the fridge, for example, bottles of soft drinks or lemonade. Temperatures should return to normal very quickly and food temperatures must not rise above 8?. Contamination and covering of food Raw food must always be kept apart from high-risk food to prevent contamination of high-risk food with food poisoning bacteria. Separate refrigerators are preferred, although, if in the same unit, the raw food must always be placed at the bottom to avoid contamination. Food should be covered to prevent drying out, cross-contamination and absorption of odour. Care should be take to protect foods such as lettuce, tomatoes and cucumbers from dripping blood. Packing and stock rotation refrigerators must not be overloaded, and food should never be left between products for air circulation. Only perishable foods should be stored in the refrigerator. This includes vacuum packs and pasteurized cans of meat. Stock rotation is essential to avoid spoilage. New stock should be placed behind existing stock to facilitate stock rotation. Open cans of food Opened and part-used cans of food, especially acid food such as fruit, fruit juice or tomatoes, must not be left in the can as this may result in chemical contamination. The unused contents should be emptied into a suitable container, such as a plastic bowl, covered and placed in the refrigerator. Defrosting and cleaning Defrosting and cleaning should be carried out in accordance with the manufacturers instructions. Most units defrost automatically and should be cleaned and disinfected at least weekly. Bicarbonate of soda (one tablespoon to 4.5 litres of water) may be used, but perfumed cleaning agents must not. Food should be placed in another refrigerator whilst the cleaning is being carried out. Staff training All food handlers must receive instruction on the correct use of the refrigerator especially in relation to contamination and temperature control. They should be told not to keep the door open for longer than necessary. Corrective action If the fridge temperature remains too high this may be a result of overloading, e.g. completely blocking a shelf or because the thermostat is too high. Inform your supervisor immediately. If the problem cant be solved, an engineer should be brought in. Food should be placed in an alternative fridge, unless it has been above 8? for more than 4hours, when it should be destroyed. Freezers and frozen food Commercial freezers should operate at -18? or slightly below. At this temperature food will keep for a reasonable time with no bacterial growth. However, spores and dormant

Mis in Microfinance

MANAGEMENT INFORMATION SYSTEM FOR MICROFINANCE| ABSTRACT ICT can be a strategic tool in making Microfinance Institutions (MFIs) more efficient and effective. MFIs can reach more people in a more economic way by implementing the right Management Information System (MIS). While a few MFIs are making good use of technology, the majority are facing difficulties in getting the right solution. Reasons for this include: * Insufficient organizational and human capacity * Unavailability of suitable MIS applications for microfinance * Diversity in business processes and frequent changes in procedures * Risk of failure of the MIS Diversity of geography and language * Unavailability of vendors and their capacity to implement and support IT solutions * High cost of IT solutions for MFIs * Lack of commitment of management and key decision-makers within an MFI * Lack of awareness about the importance of IT The back-office MIS is the backbone of any Information System solution and yet it has not rec eived much attention. MFIs, whether large or small, need to have a strong back-office MIS before attempting to deploy any advanced front-end applications or delivery channels.These would be worthless without having a strong and flexible back-office MIS in place. INTRODUCTION Management information systems (MIS)  have played a key role in the traditional banking sector for years, but microfinance institutions have been much slower to utilize this technology, primarily due to budgeting shortfalls. A  2009 CGAP survey   found that many microfinance institutions lack well-functioning information systems that would enable them to grow into vigorous institutions. Technology was consistently cited as one of the greatest challenges facing MFIs.Over the last several years, however, more and more MFIs have begun implementing information systems, which has the potential to provide several benefits to the industry as a whole and to MFIs in particular; ranging from loan tracking to greater transparency and risk management. Management information systems are essentially applications which enable an institution to better organize its data for the purposes of decision-making, efficiency, and external reporting. Rather than hidden within a pile of manila folders, the data is crisp, up to date, and presented in a compelling and practical form.Benefits include easier cash-flow management and forecasting, timely information regarding portfolio risk, real time performance updates, more efficient accounting procedures, and simplified external reporting. In sum, a good MIS can increase an organization’s efficiency and decrease its operating costs. The biggest hurdle to the utilization of such technologies among MFIs has been the prohibitively high cost of purchase and implementation. The CGAP survey found that a majority of MFIs use either custom-built or off-the-shelf systems to track their portfolios.But a new innovation,  SaaS  (Software as a Service), has been c hanging that. Typically the SaaS software vendor hosts the application on its web servers, which the customer can download on his mobile device or computer terminal on an on-demand basis. This system provides MFIs 24/7 access from anywhere in the world, real time information, data security and automatic backup. With an SaaS system an organization pays monthly â€Å"rent†, or in some cases a variable fee based on usage levels, for access to the software provider’s application.Instead of â€Å"buying† the software and using it in isolation, the purchaser gains access to the provider’s online cloud, and utilize the internet to deposit, organize, and access their information. With this changed cost structure, more and more MFIs have been able to integrate MIS into their organizational structure. SaaS technology is designed to serve international microfinance networks, such as Opportunity International, as well as national MFI branches, such as  Cresa Financ ial Services in India. Accordingly, SaaS services are emerging as the MIS model of choice for microfinance institutions.Difficulties in Adopting MIS A number of MIS solutions are emerging. Currently, there are 56 MIS applications listed on the CGAP website, although more are being used by various organizations that are not publicized. Despite the advances in MIS, practical experience shows that the acquisition of a suitable MIS is not simple. Many MFIs are struggling with their MIS. Some of the reasons for these difficulties are: * Microfinance operations are unique and complex, compared to commercial, retail banking. The Microfinance sector is still evolving and lacks standardization in its procedures, methodologies, customer characteristics, type of transactions and reporting. * There is no of-the-shelf software available that can address the requirements of every MFI. * Those MIS that are available are complex and costly for adoption by MFIs. * MFIs lack human and organizational capacity to develop or select an appropriate MIS. * MFIs operate in remote and difficult areas where communication and power infrastructure do not exist and are therefore constrained from using IT equipment required to run MIS applications.Outlook of MFIs It is evident that the MFIs around the world are diverse in their structure and practices. Following are some of the factors that differentiate MFIs from each other: 1. Type of organization: * NGO * MFI (non-regulate) * Regulated MF Institution * Microfinance banks 2. Type of Products and Services: * Minimalists (those who offer only credit services) * Loans as well as savings services * Full range of products (including loans, deposits, remittance, insurance, leasing and social services) 3. Organizational Structure: * Branch setup (small, medium and large) Staff structure * Departments (cost centre and profit centre) 4. Geography: * Area specific (operations are limited to a small area) * Country specific (operations are spread ov er an entire country) * Global operations (operating in multiple countries) 5. Operational Environment: * Rural areas * Urban areas * Other 6. Processes and procedures: * Models (associations, cooperatives, credit unions, Grameen, etc. ) 7. Regulatory environment 8. Reporting: * Management reporting * Stakeholder reporting * Microfinance networks and peer group reporting Information Systems used by MFIsThe microfinance sector is also quite diverse in its use of information systems. Generally there are the following three types: 1. Manual System Some MFIs still rely on manual systems, which involve maintenance of records in forms and ledgers. Organizations having manual systems are either small micro-credit programs or NGOs. 2. Semi-automated System More than 50% of MFIs are operating in a semi-automated mode. Within this category, the spreadsheet is the common tool being used either in conjunction with a manual system or with an MIS application that does not fulfill the information requirements of the MFI.The majority of non-regulated MFIs have semi-automated systems. 3. Fully Automated System Few MFIs are fortunate enough to have a fully automated and integrated MIS, fulfilling the whole information requirements of the organization. Such systems are existent with banks or regulated MFIs. Disadvantage of manual systems: Some of the disadvantages of manual Information Systems are: * Too laborious and time consuming. * Prone to Errors. * Data manipulation and analysis is very difficult. * Maintenance of large amount of data is almost impossible. * Data and information is not secured. Loosely controlled. * Highly inflexible (addition of new products and change in business processes). Benefits of computerized MIS to Microfinance There is no doubt that â€Å"the right information† at â€Å"the right time† at â€Å"the right place†, is crucial in decision making. Therefore, information and data is considered among the most valuable assets fundam ental to the success of an organization. The primary roles of the MIS are to capture information, create new information, store information, and convey information to the user. The two major objectives of MFIs are Outreach and Sustainability.MIS can add substantial value in achieving both the objectives: * A major advantage of MIS is that it provides easy access to accurate and up-to-date information. For example, loan officers get information on loans that need follow-up, branch managers can monitor daily progress of the branch, and senior management can get a full picture of the portfolio performance and quality. Customers also get quick information on their accounts, payments and balances. * Detailed information is captured on customers and their activities that can then be used to assess client business to assess impact.It is also useful in tracking historical information of clients. * Activities, such as disbursements, repayments, deposits, withdrawals and money transfers are c ompleted faster, better controlled and with minimum opportunity for errors. * Information is produced in user-required formats, which facilitates better understanding, setting priorities, objectives and strategy. * Key performance indicators provide an overview of the organization’s performance, efficiency and effectiveness of business procedures so that timely adjustments can be made. * Use of ICT helps make MFI services more interactive, accessible and transparent. In terms of innovation, ICT provides full flexibility to structure products and services to the needs of its target group. * Efficiency and productivity of staff is increased, as they are able to manage more products, customers, and transactions in less time. Integration and Consolidation With the growth and advancement of the microfinance industry, new innovations are being witnessed. Among these innovations, technology-based delivery channels and mechanisms are creating opportunities as well as intensifying the competitive environment for MFIs.These channels are not only targeted at lowering transaction costs and extending the reach of MFIs to large populations, but are also focused around customer convenience. These technology-based mechanisms enhance efficiency of the MFIs, while posing substantial challenges in managing such technologies. One of the main challenges is that of integration and consolidation. It is essential that the back office MIS has the flexibility to integrate with such systems. The back-office MIS has received little attention within the sector.The general perception is that new technology based delivery systems would easily integrate with the core MIS, whereas in reality it is not that simple. Examples show that MFIs that have adopted such systems without assessment of their core MIS are struggling to integrate these. Because of non-integration, MFIs fall back on electronic spreadsheets or manual procedures to prepare consolidated information. Integration and conso lidation are very important for MFIs and inability to integrate new technological innovations holds them back, making them less rather than more efficient.Back-office MIS â€Å"Starting Point for MFIs† The backbone of any Information System (IS) is the core MIS as it holds the critical data, and manages the information. All other systems are add-ons. A simple core MIS comprises of two parts: I. Database – data structure; an organized set of tables designed to the needs of the business. All data of the organization resides in these tables. ii. Application Software – comprises of the user interface, business processes, procedures, reports and queries. Fig 1: Core MISAdopting an MIS is strategically important for MFIs. They need to undertake a careful and detailed assessment of current and future needs before committing to a particular solution. Much of the system’s flexibility, expandability, and robustness depend on the strength of the backend components. Strong core MIS can deliver cost-effective integration of data, channels and processes, facilitating a single consolidated view of the whole portfolio. Core MIS can provide easy data entry for the backend database, making consolidation easy to achieve.Various studies reveal that a large number of MFIs operate manual systems despite having some kind of MIS in place. One of the reasons the MIS does not cope with the changing needs of the organization is that the backend does not have the right structure. It is important for both the MFIs and microfinance software vendors to concentrate and strengthen the Core MIS. Figure 2 shows a basic structure for the Core MIS for microfinance: Fig2: Core MIS for Microfinance Other Key Deciding Factors for IT SystemsWhile the MIS needs to fulfill the business requirements of the organization, but other factors including appropriate infrastructure and hardware are also important in the success and optimal utilization of information systems. We can c ategorize the components of an information system solution into five areas: 1. Physical Architecture (Electricity/Power & communication infrastructure) Physical architecture consists of basic wires or cables to gateways and powerhouses.Together with buildings, offices, and computers, the architecture provides services of voice, data, image and video transmission while the consistent power supply keeps everything live and running. Every system needs electric power, and if systems are required to communicate, then there must be an appropriate communication infrastructure. Usually MFIs operate in remote and underdeveloped areas where this is lacking. 2. Network Three types of environment setups could be made. i. Standalone Environment; MIS is run on individual PCs and data is stored locally. ii.Local Area Network (LAN); PCs are connected together to create a LAN. The network can be either peer-to-peer or client/server. Desirable is the Client/server network where data is stored and sha red through a server in a secure way. iii. Wide Area Network (WAN); Branch offices and operation units can be connected through a WAN. It requires proper communication infrastructure and involves high cost to establishing a WAN. For online systems WAN is critical. 3. Hardware Type of hardware depends on the network environment. A client-server environment requires server and switch for connecting the workstations / PCs. . Database Generally databases can be categorized as local and client-server. Each category has its own strengths and weaknesses. These details can help MFIs in selecting the appropriate database: i. Local databases there are a number of local databases but the most widely used databases are Microsoft Access, FoxPro, Paradox, and file maker. ii. Client/Server databases iii. Most popular client/server databases also called enterprise databases include; Oracle, DB2, SQL Server, Myself, Sybase, and Informix are some of the commonly used client/server databases: 5. Appli cationA combination of business processes and procedures, user interface, reports and controls operate on top of the backend system. A large variety of software development and report generation tools are available and used to write software applications. Getting the Right Fit MFIs face great challenges in choosing the right system solution that can best fit their business needs. An MIS for microfinance must have the following characteristics: 1. Cost effectiveness: Total ownership and lifetime system operations costs, including hardware, software, network, infrastructure and human resource. . Functionality & flexibility: Fulfill maximum of the current business requirement and flexible enough to incorporate future changes. Capture and generate relevant information on an individual, group, and at a consolidated level. 3. Reliability: Incomplete and unreliable systems are dangerously risky and can hamper the business. Such systems do not produce the right results and are unable to com plete processes to the desired level. Users could be misguided by such systems. 4. Simple to use: Should be user friendly and easy to setup and operate.Activities can be performed in a systematic way and flow. 5. Scalability: System should accommodate changes to products, services and delivery channels. It should grow as the business grows. For example, if the system design is scalable, it can be run on an individual PC, Local Area Network (LAN) or Wide Area Network (WAN). 6. Integration: Combining data from multiple sources is of great importance to microfinance. Integration of branches to get single consolidated picture should be a priority. Challenges faced by MFIs * Microfinance is a rapidly changing industry. Due to the ongoing volution of the industry, MFIs face difficulty in defining business objectives, needs, priorities and limitations for acquisition of an MIS solution. There is lack of standardization within the microfinance sector, and business practices of MFIs differ f rom each other. Consequently, software developers face problems in coming-up with an MIS that can be used by most of the MFIs. Common failures are due to ill defined business process and procedures. * There is a shortage of skilled professionals who can understand technology as well as the microfinance industry, and be able to suggest the right solution.Such professionals can act as a bridge in filling the gap between use of ICT and microfinance operations * Majority of the MFIs do not have the technical capacity and required resources to understand, adopt and implement MIS solutions. * Most MIS solutions are not affordable to the majority of MFIs. * In some cases there is a lack of vision and commitment from the management towards use of technology * Integration is becoming one of the big challenges, as most of the MIS solutions for microfinance are built on weak platforms, thus not being flexible and scalable enough to integrate with emerging technologies and delivery channels.Rec ommendations: * FMFB’s experience of adopting technology suggests that MFIs should invest in relevant technologies after thorough and careful assessment of their requirements. The requirement should be addressed in perspective of current needs and future plans. * So far the core MIS of MFIs has been neglected. MFIs should get their core MIS right before opting for any kind of delivery system. * The software industry needs to do more in developing quality software for microfinance sector. * Capacity within institutions to manage technology is key to successful implementation and operation of its MIS.MFIs should employ skilled IT professionals on their staff. * MFIs must adopt MIS solutions that not only meet their needs but are also manageable by the MFI from all aspects. In some cases small and medium size MFIs go beyond their needs in adopting an MIS that ultimately becomes a drain on their resources. Such systems reduce the organizations overall efficiency and ultimately th eir sustainability. * MFIs can get maximum benefit by investing in technology, and putting in a better MIS solution that works for them. MIS is a strategic investment for MFIs. *Progressive policies that make ICT accessible and affordable to the majority of the population are important for encouraging the use of ICT within microfinance and for the development of the microfinance sector. Conclusion The use of ICT can rightfully be to the strategic advantage of MFIs. Innovations in ICT have transformed traditional approaches to microfinance, facilitating growth and reducing cost. Some of the players have already started getting the benefit by using MIS and similar IT solutions, while the majority of the MFIs have yet to realize the importance of its use to achieve outreach and sustainability.The implementation of the right MIS still remains a big challenge faced by MFIs. Efforts are also made from various corners of the world in overcoming these challenges. CGAP’s Information S ystem Support is a prudent initiative to assist MFIs in getting access to ICT, aligning their MIS and using the appropriate IT solution. One of the realizations is â€Å"first things first† i. e. having an appropriate core MIS first before other systems: keeping in mind the strategic importance of ICT to the microfinance industry, renewed efforts are required from all the stakeholders to overcome the challenges faced by the microfinance industry in taking on IT.References: – Cheryl Frankiewicz and published by CALMEADOW (2003). IT as a Strategic Tool for Microfinance in Africa – ADB Releases (2005). Pakistan Economic Update – Rao, M (2004), Microfinance & ICTs: Exploring Mutual Benefits and Synergy, Orbicom – Firpo, J. (2005), Championing Scale in Microfinance: Technology’s Role in Delivering Accessible Financial Services to the Poor

Expos paper 2 - 1779 Words

Expository Writing Jesse Hoffman October 5, 2014 Puzzle of Identity in Life Every human’s life is like a puzzle: starting from birth to death, all the people and all the experience that we go through will impact our future decisions and will result in a final product of our identity. Just as all the pieces of the puzzle come together to reveal a final product or an image, our past experiences come together to reveal our final product, which is our identity: who we are and what our beliefs are. The effects of past experiences and encounters will reflect the actions and connections of the present. This adventure of finding ones identity by completing the figurative puzzle requires intimate connections and memorable moments that you†¦show more content†¦This is why he prefers being in ‘middle of the ocean’ versus being present in reality and having emotions and feeling connected. So in this case the part of brain designed to defend Seth from mental harm is what causing the harm to him mentally, by disassociating and not allowing hi m to feel connected. Both authors seem to agree to the fact that because of the past trauma the victims prefer being isolated and avoid human emotions. Victims who faced trauma in past, tend to isolate themselves, which deteriorates them inside out, making them unable to form an identity for themselves. Although the victims are attempting to form connection; the defense mechanism of the brain makes them disassociate and unable to be present for the events that occur in their lives. In Stouts essay, she continues on about Seth’s example where he is unable to connect to closest people in his life. Even though he wishes to be at the events in his life, his mind doesn’t allow him to do so, because it sees a threat that exists only in his mind. She quotes Seth, as he describes how he is unable to feel anything during the most intimate moments in his life. He states, â€Å"Most of the time when she and I make love, and I’m not there, she doesn’t know it even t hen†¦ It’s just that well, when I think about it; I realize that, really, I’ve missed most of my own life† (Stout 436). Because of the trauma Seth had faced in past, he is unable to beShow MoreRelatedThe Importance of Event Planning1383 Words   |  6 PagesShanghai Expo 2010 is a good example, proving that planned events have the potential to generate positive outcomes on the local economy, which in turn can improve the social status of the host city, region or country. 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Essay On Mortal Life - 1129 Words

It was only suppose to be out of curiosity. Nothing more, nothing less... so how did it end up like this? Aomine was used to getting hit on by strangers of the human world. His flawless skin, deep ocean blue eyes, and his elegant moves attracted plenty of attention. He was use to shrugging off the attention. He got plenty of it in Mount Olympus by gods that meant more than these merely humans. However, he found himself attracted to a human with hair red as fire and passionate burning rubies for eyes. It was almost weird, the mortal man almost reminded him of his father Akashi. The stranger was dressed in denim pants and a white T-shirt with a leather jacket loosely hugging his body. A cigarette hung from his mouth, smoke filling up the†¦show more content†¦no one bothered to give me a proper tour of the place. He pouted The man reached up and placed the cigarette between his index and middle finger. 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The Effects Of Obesity On The Health - 1393 Words

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Louise Vuitton Free Essays

Louis Vuitton — one of the oldest fashionable houses of Europe. Its history began in the middle of the XIX century, in 1854. Today, as well as 150 years ago, goods from Louis Vuitton are still made manually. We will write a custom essay sample on Louise Vuitton or any similar topic only for you Order Now With unmistakably recognizable monogram of â€Å"LV† on the logo, Louis Vuitton it is recognized as one of the most prestigious brands in the world. â€Å"Louis Vuitton is one of the world’s leading international fashion houses; it sells its products through standalone boutiques, lease departments in high-end department stores, and through the e-commerce section of its website. Louis Vuitton commonly referred to as Louis Vuitton or shortened to LV, is a French fashion house founded in 1854 by Louis Vuitton. † (louisvuitton, 2011). Environment can be defined as, the amalgamation of external physical circumstances that impinge and influence the augmentation, development and survival of creation. Therefore, the business environment would define as same, all the factors internal and external that affects its profitability and growth. It is very important for the business leader to carry out business environmental analysis to understand their business topography at present time. To evaluate suitable context of the organisations operations in terms of the internal environment it is best to use SWOT analysis of Louis Vuitton. First of all let is start from strengths. Louise Vuitton is not only one of the oldest, but one of the most legendary houses of fashion in the world. The most valuable argument for the strength of this company is exclusivity. Since the 19th century, manufacture of Louis Vuitton goods has not changed. â€Å"Luggage is still made by hand, utilize the signature brown Damier and Monogan Canvas materials, both of which were first used in late 19th century.† (lvmh, 2012). Also, the company markets it is product though it is own stores located throughout the world, which allows it to control product quality and pricing. â€Å"Louis Vuitton commands a strong brand identity and image in the world’s leading financial hubs such as China, Japan and Hong Kong, which incidentally also has the highest concentrations of high net worth individuals, with loyal customers in Europe and the United States. † (louisvuittonbrand, 2013). Secondly let is identify weaknesses of Louise Vuitton. Limited costumer base is the one of the weaknesses of this company. Only the elite and rich who want to make a statement and want to be distinctive from others can afford Louise Vuitton. Also, it does not have any discount sale on it is products, which means that the company reducing the chances of attracting customers who can afford more economical products. â€Å"LV has not had a sale in 154 years. Louis Vuitton prohibits bargain sales. A core of Louis Vuitton’s pricing strategy is to sell the products to all of its customers at the same price no matter the location.â€Å" (Kraemer, 2012). Thirdly, let is think about opportunities. To meet contemporary tastes and styles of it is elite consumers, Louise Vuitton revamping its image from time to time. â€Å"The fashion industry is a pretty dynamic one which changes rapidly over the seasons. Louis Vuitton has the ability to revamp its image from time to time to meet contemporary tastes, styles and preferences of its customers. † (louisvuittonbrand, 2013). Moreover, Louise Vuitton leverages its strong brand equity to product – fashion, accessories, shoes, timepieces, and architecture. And with its continuous innovation and support to different managerial, environmental, and more crucially societal and humanitarian issues and concerns (e. g. corporate sponsorship to support culture, youth and humanitarian action), Louis Vuitton can gain more customer loyalty, which will help give them a greater competitive advantage against rival brands. â€Å"While the brand is one of the leading names in the luxury industry, Louis Vuitton maintains a strong desire to continue its innovation with high quality raw materials, tamper-proof locks, optimised production processes, and soon a dedicated leather goods hub in Angers, France.† (Quark, 2013). Now let is talk about threats of the company. Louise Vuitton is one of the most counterfeited brands in fashion world due to its image as a status symbol – imitation of quality, expertise and innovation – sued Britney Spears, Darfur Charity infringing LV’s intellectual property rights. Also it is has luxury and strong competitors such as Christian Dior, Chanel, Gucci, Prada etc. And one more thing is animal right group. Campaigners staged a noisy protest outside a Louise Vuitton store on Paris famed Champs Elysees avenue in 2006 for using real fur in decoration and  accessories. â€Å"With the advent of environmental protection and considerations in business, the number of groups protesting against the use of animal skins on fashion and leather goods† (louisvuittonbrand, 2011). External business environment represent the uncontrollable factors, the external factors can be analysed using PEST analysis. It will cover political, economical, social and technological factors. Political Louis Vuitton has slashed the rate of new store openings to two a year on average, down from 10-15. Its extensive network of 460 shops stretches to Mongolia and Kazakhstan. Higher sales going through fewer stores should boost the profitability of each store. Economical Economical situation, inflation, interest rate and strengths of consumer spending. It will directly affect the Louise Vuitton and its profit, if economical situation is bad consumer will spend less â€Å"Fewer new store openings will also free up cash, which could potentially be returned to shareholders† (Daneshkhu, 2013) Social Louise Vuitton is wealthiest and renowned member of society Technological The new opportunities to expand on the Internet though online sales and now even sales by smartphones â€Å"Today, the Louis Vuitton app includes three document types: PDFs, interactive publications (with video, slideshows, Web sites, specific read modes) and videos. It consists of a kiosk, which is used to navi- gate through the Quark Publishing Platform tree structure to select and download the desired publications before viewing them on the iPad. The app also includes a library for previously downloaded documents (which can be read in off-line mode). † (Quark, 2013) Now this essay will give brief recommendations for Louise Vuitton for the next years. Let is start from short-term recommendations. First of all, to make Louise Vuitton more appealing to the consumer, some products of the brand can be made available only in small quantities, by limiting its production of certain products from time to time, or producing special  edition of the some handbag in different markets, Louise Vuitton could become even more premium. Hence, this can satisfy the consumer, who wants to differentiate themselves from other Louise Vuitton users. Louise Vuitton could even create a trend for collection of limited edition Louise Vuitton products. Also, Louise Vuitton can open to franchising with high end malls around the world. Long term recommendations are about to be more distinctive from the competition, Louise Vuitton may consider concentrating its business model to production of leather goods only. If Louise Vuitton could concentrate on leather goods production alone, it could become not just the leader, but also the specialist of producing different leather goods. Also, by offering more economic lines to the consumer, Sub brands will help to fight counterfeiting and broaden their consumer base In conculion, as Louis Vuitton continues to build on its strong history, add to its portfolio, and show continued growth, now is a strategic time to invest as stock and value continue to rise. â€Å"The company’s maturity and proven stability make it attractive and investors can rest assured that there would be a low level of volatility in their investment. †(Nebia, 2012) Investors can also be comfortable with the fact that this is not exactly a â€Å"widows and orphans† stock, Louise Vuitton has had continuous expansions by acquiring other well know luxury goods companies and continues to make substantial investments. This has helped to further differentiate sources of revenue and gain more consumers. The company’s innovation in the sector and well-established culture make it standout investment. How to cite Louise Vuitton, Papers

Twelfth Night character analysis Essay Example For Students

Twelfth Night character analysis Essay At the start of the play, Orsino, the Duke of Illyria is shown as a noble man. Shakespeares audience knew this or has noticed this by the way Orsino speaks. Orsino speaks in an elaborate and very sophisticated way. He does this by comparing music with food and love with appetite when he says, If music be the food of love, play on, give me excess of it. Also, Orsino uses sibilance, which is a repeateds that creates a soft dramatic and gentle mood and he also speaks in verses (iambic pentameter, and with rhythm). However, Orsino is in love with the idea of being in love because he only thinks about love but not the love to Olivia, a Countess whose father and brother have died. Olivias name is not mentioned until Act 1, Scene 1, line 18. Orsino also uses a paradox Stealing and giving which he says that the pleasant odor has left and compares love with the sea, as it can be very strong and devastating and if something falls inside it, it will lower its value. This, however, is not the only thing we know about Orsino. He uses a pun, when his servant Curio asks him if he wants to hunt the Hart which was a sort of deer, and Orsino makes it sound as if he wants to go and hunt Olivias heart, which shows us his way of avoiding Curios attempt to change the subject. Also, Orsino uses hyperbole when he says Me thought she purged the air of pestilence. He also says And my desires, like fell and cruel hounds meaning that he believes in love at first sight. Orsino is also a very fickle person and a self-centered man who only cares about himself. We know this, when Valentine, Orsinos messenger tells him that Olivia will be veiled for the next seven years and not meet with any man due to the death of her brother, Orsino starts thinking that if she loves her dead brother so much, she will love Orsino the same way when Cupids arrow will hit her. This is a classical allusion and all this shows that Orsino is a courtly lover, a kind of character that Shakespeares audience would be familiar with. Twelfth Night character analysis In Act 1, Scene 4, here again, we see that Orsino wants to listen to romantic and soothing music. So, he sends of Curio, his servant, to get Feste. The reason why Orsino send Curio to get Feste is, because he thinks that his songs can relieve his dreadful heartaches, caused by too much love. Then, Orsino starts giving advice to Viola who is disguised as a young man called cesario about what love is. Both talk about love and, Cesario tells Orsino about one womans love, but then Feste enters the room in which Orsino is sat down and starts singing. When Feste finishes singing, he starts mocking Orsino, saying that his love is like an opal and taffeta as their colors change in different light. Thus, Feste compares Orsino with that because his love is strange; changing from one type to another and that he is very fickle. However, Orsino, a very well educated and respectful man with a good reputation as a duke, does not realize that he is being mocked by a fool, and takes the words as a compliment. After the conversation with Feste, Orsino sends Curio to Olivias palace and Cesario says that the countess might reject Orsino. So, Orsino tells Cesario that he cannot be answered in such a way. Also, there can be two interpretations in which this can be said. Firstly, he can say it in an arrogant way because no women can love him as he does and that he is a duke. Secondly, he can say this in an upset way, feeling lousy, because Olivia may have become sick and tired of him and his messengers. So, after this speech, Cesario starts explaining to Orsino the meaning of true love, and what it is. Feste the clown, or fool, wanders around Orsinos and Olivias palace. He earns his livings by singing old and romantic songs, making jokes and giving good advice to foolish people like Orsino, who is terribly in love with the idea of being in love. Feste is also, or may be, the wisest of all in Twelfth Night. How is love presented in Romeo and Juliet? EssayFirstly, it may be said in a very caring way because she may love Sir. Toby and cares about him, secondly, she may say it in an arrogant way, and telling him off as if she is better off than him. She also prepares us for the entry of Sir. Andrew Aguecheek shortly after her conversation with Sir. Toby, who she refers to as A foolish knight whom Sir. Andrew has brought to woo Olivia. When she said that that she is going to write the phony Letter to trick Malvolio, her supervisor, Sir. Toby says that he is going to marry her for that as a reward for getting revenge on him. From this, we can say if she is a social climber or not. There may be different possibilities, because she may marry Sir. Toby for money and wealth or she may truly admire him and have feelings for him and might pity him. Malvolio is Olivias steward and seems to be a minor character. He is the main social climber in the play because love, to him means nothing but becoming rich and powerful and getting rid of Sir. Toby Belch. When we first meet Malvolio, he seems to be a simple type of puritan, stiff, thick, and a proper servant who likes nothing else, but to spoil other peoples fun. His self-regard and his ambitions, which of course extend to marrying Olivia and becoming Count Malvolio Act 2, Scene 4 line 36, makes him look silly. When he finds the phony letter, forged by Maria, Malvolio changes from a stiff, pain in the neck steward into a lover. He is very ridiculous in these scenes, as he wears yellow stockings and crossed garters and thinks that he will please Olivia, he starts molesting her and Olivia thinks that he had become mad and calls Maria to help him. We start to pity Malvolio when he has been locked up in a dark room and being tormented by Feste. Malvolio desperately claims that he is not mad and possessed by the devil; he begins to seem more of a victim of his own insanity rather than being a victimizer. When Feste torments him, Sir. Toby comes up to him and tells him that the pranks, jokes and tortures over Malvolio must stop and should not go any further because they are risking too much, and Sir. Toby has offended Olivia so many times that he cannot continue on doing bad things. In the end of the play, despite what everyone has done to him, he is brought out of the darkness, where he sees an unexpected celebration, no body seems willing to offer him help or an apology, so he says Ill be revenged on the whole pack of you and he may leave with his chin up high, or feeling extremely upset. In conclusion, you have seen different attitudes to love and how they have been expressed by the love triangle which includes Orsino, Viola and Olivia, then Malvolio, Maria and Sir. Toby Belch. Of course, at the end of the play, every one is very happy, because each and every one of them has found their true love and soul mate, except for poor Malvolio, who has been tortured in a dark room, Feste the fool and Fabian, Olivias worker. Sir. Toby and Maria get married, as we know because Fabian had said this in Act 5, Scene 1 and Orsino proposes to Viola. And so, the play ends with Feste singing a song about the different stages in a persons life and concludes the play.