Computer Technology And Computing Technology - 743 Words

Abstract—Computation-intensive mobile applications are more in demand with the evolution in computer technology, while the computation capacities of mobile devices are limited. Computation offloading is a challenging method that sends heavy computation task to the resourceful computers and obtains results from them, provided computation offloading decision should balance system s benefits and costs. This paper presents the survey of various such computation offloading decisions algorithms highlighting their objectives and features, followed with their comparative analysis based on parameters i.e. energy efficiency, performance, time complexity, overheads, application support and their future scope. keywords—Computation offloading;offloading decisions;mobile cloud computing. I. INTRODUCTION Evolution in computing technology have expanded the usage of computers from desktops and mainframes to a wide range of mobile and embedded applications including surveillance, environment sensing, GPS navigation, mobile phones, autonomous robots etc. Many of these applications run on limited resources i.e. power constrained mobile phones. Mobile Cloud Computing (MCC) provides a powerful way to perform such computation intensive task, called â€Å"Computation Offloading†. Computation offloading is a mechanism where resource intensive computations are migrated to resource rich cloud or server or nearby infrastructure [8].It is different from the migration model used in microprocessorShow MoreRelatedDevelopment Of The First Operating System1728 Words   |  7 Pagesintroduction of the first QWERTY keyboard, the first Graphical User Interface (GUI), to the present day mobile computing capabilities of smart phones. 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It is using your phone to search something online, using your tablet to make changes to a PowerPoint before you go into your meeting, and sharing multimedia online through your social media. There have been many leaps within the technological world that has brought society to where it is today. From the creation of the cell phone to theRead MoreMobile Computing And Its Business Implications1725 Words   |  7 Pages Mobile Computing and its business implications Krishna Mohan Bobde University of Campbellsville 520156 27 October 2016 Abstract Mobile computing is the important informationRead MoreWhat Is Ubiquitous Computing ?890 Words   |  4 PagesUbiquitous Computing ? What is ubiquitous computing? An exciting new approach to serving us with technology? Or the environment where the virtuality will became the reality? Lets try to give the definition of ubiquitous computing, its development, including the key people and places influencing its development, and finally some concerns raised by this new approach for putting technology and people together. Already, one name has been reoccurring when talking about ubiquitous computing: Mark WeiserRead MoreThe Cloud Of Cloud Computing1483 Words   |  6 PagesCloud Computing has been one of the greatest concepts of computer access over the last years, but in fact we have been using it for more than ten years and the majority of us takes advantage of this technology in our daily life without realize it. Gmail, Dropox, Facebook, and many social networks are all examples of Cloud Computing solutions. It seems that the Cloud computing has become essential to a generation that is in constant battle to reduce costs and in the same time to provide unlimitedRead More Nano Computing and the Future of Silicon 787 Words   |  3 PagesNano computers have the potential to revolutionize the 21st century in the same way that the transistor led to the information age. Increased investments in nanotechnology could lead to breakthroughs such as molecular computers. Billions of very small, fast, and che ap computers networked together can fundamentally change the face of modern IT computing. This miniaturization has already spawned a whole series of consumer-based computing products: computerized clothes, smart furniture, and access toRead MoreCloud Technology1217 Words   |  5 Pagesâ€Å"Keeping Your Head in The Clouds† (Cloud Technology) By: Azariah Foxworth North Carolina Central University Durham, NC 4/12/2010 Within the past 10 years our societies technological advantages have been somewhat space age like, even alien like characteristics. Technologies, which ten years ago only existed in our dreams but yet, have become reality. Things like, the revolutionary iPhone and its almost seamless touch-screen tech; as well as the new advancements in our cultures most

The Last Battle Of The Civil War - 959 Words

Leadership through Redemption In Nicholas Lemann’s story Redemption: The Last Battle of the Civil War, it shows a theme of leadership through the main character of the story, and Adelbert Ames effectively demonstrates the required traits of a main character and a leader. The book focused on a lot of events that happened in the Reconstruction era. It tells about both the political characteristics and the social characteristics that are unraveled throughout the reformation of the South and giving the African Americans the right to vote along with other political freedoms. Throughout the story, Adelbert Ames successfully demonstrates the qualities of a great protagonist and a leader. Adelbert Ames shows the theme of leadership and how his change in his ambition and morality would make him a better leader in his life. In the story, Adelbert Ames shows his great leadership and guidance. He was one of the great leaders after the time of the Civil War. He was also a key contributor in the American Civil War. He was quoted as a â€Å"beau-ideal of a division leader† (32). His great leadership was awarded with the Medal of Honor, which is one of the highest medals in the army. He was known as a man who would do anything for his people and he would go the distance to help them out. As told by the story, he was a leader that also treated his soldiers right. This is seen in this quote: â€Å"Although he never permitted anything to stand in his way, and never asked men to go where he wouldShow MoreRelatedRedemption : The Last Battle Of The Civil War922 Words   |  4 PagesRedemption: The Last Battle of the Civil War In Redemption: The Last Battle of the Civil War, Nicholas Lemann describes how reconstruction failed because of the violent strategies and intimidation of white southerners to African Americans, which took place mainly in Southern states like Mississippi and Louisiana. Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation to free slaves in the south in 1863. Later on, the thirteenth amendment was ratified to abolish slavery in 1865. Even though these documentsRead MoreWhat Caused The Civil War? Slavery? Politics?Social Conflicts?Maybe1628 Words   |  7 PagesWhat caused the Civil War? Slavery? Politics? Social Conflicts? Maybe it was little bit of everything. In 1861-1865 America s bloodiest conflict happened. It was called the Civil War. The Civil War was between the North and the South about slavery. The North was antislavery, but the South was all for slavery. The North wanted to free the slaves to help fight the war, but the South was not fond of that. Some would bel ieve that they would talk it out; however, they both decided to haveRead MoreEssay about The American Civil War876 Words   |  4 PagesThe United States has been involved in many wars throughout history. Americans have fought and died in many wars such as the war for independence in World War I to Desert Storm. One of the bloodiest wars in our nation’s history is without a doubt is the Civil War. Prior to the beginning of the Civil War, the country was divided by the issue of slavery. When President Lincoln was elected to office, several states seceded from the Union. During this war, â€Å"Over six hundred thousand men died, and hundredsRead MoreThe Battle Of Bull Run1269 Words   |  6 PagesThe Battle of Bull Run was one of the first major battles in the United States Civil War. The battle took place on July 21st, 1861 just twenty five miles southwest of Washington D.C., which was also the center of the Union Government. This battle also convinced the Lincoln administration and the North that the Civil War would last longer than they expected and would be consisting of bloodier fights costing many more lives. The US Civil War is known as the second most deadly war America has ever experiencedRead MoreThe Life of Geroge Armstrong Custer884 Words   |  4 Pagesduring the America n Civil War. Later in 1870’s, Custer moved to the west to fight in the Indian Wars. On June 25, 1876, a battle at Little Bighorn against Lakota and Cheyenne warriors was fought where he led 210 men. Custer and all of his men were killed in the battle. The battle, also known as â€Å"Custer’s Last Stand,† was part of the Black Hills War against a confederation of Plains Indians, including the Cheyenne and Dakota Sioux. It is considered one of the most controversial battles in U.S. historyRead MoreThe Civil War And The Confederate States Of America Essay1700 Words   |  7 PagesThe American Civil War is a civil war between 1861 and 1865 involving the United States or (the Union) and the Confederate States of America (â€Å"the Confederacy†), led by Jefferson Davis, consisting of eleven southern slave states that had seceded from the United States. The Union included all abolitionist states and five borderline slave states and was headed by Abraham Lincoln and the Republican Party. The latter was opposed to the expansion of slavery in the territories held by the United StatesRead MoreThe Civil War : A Bloody Battle1150 Words   |  5 Pagesâ€Å"With one terrible exception, the Civil War, law and the Constitution have kept America whole and free† (â€Å"Anthony Lewis†). This quote talks about how the Civil War kept America free. The Civil War was a very bloody battle that occurred about the right over slavery. The war began in 1861 and lasted for 4 years. The two armies were the Union and the Confederate. The Union won the war and it finally ended in 1865. The Civil War was one of the deadliest battles that changed the landscape of the US dueRead MoreCivil War : A War Between Citizens Of The Same Country1609 Words   |  7 PagesEmma Hart Mrs. Wise History 8Y 11 December 2014 Civil War Civil War is defined as a war between citizens of the same country. Why would America have this fight? The Northern states of America decided that they would no longer tolerate the Southern states treating African Americans as slaves because of the color of their skin. When disputes were brought up over this issue between the North and South, the South was too persistent to have slaves. They worried that the North would be successful inRead MoreA Brief Note On Civil War And Its Effects On The United States1602 Words   |  7 Pages Civil War Civil War is defined as a war between citizens of the same country. Why would America have this fight? The Northern states of America decided that they would no longer tolerate the Southern states treating African Americans as slaves because of the color of their skin. When disputes were brought up over this issue between the North and South, the South was too persistent to have slaves. They worried that the North would be successful in abolishing slavery, so in result, the South wentRead MoreEssay on Why the American Civil War Lasted for Longer Than 90 Days1149 Words   |  5 PagesWhy the American Civil War lasted for longer than 90 days The North had expected their war with the south to last for no more than 90 days. They not only had more men up in the north but they had more resources as well. Now why couldnt they defeat the south? I have to say it is due to the incompetence of the norths generals commanding the army, and the army itself. On April 15, 1861, President Lincoln called on the states to provide 75,000 militia men for 90 days to put down the rebellion of

System Requirements from Automated Information †Free Samples

Question: What Is The Requirements From Automated Information Systems? Answer: Introduction Information Technology (IT) and Information Systems (IS) have become the two pillars of the present technological era. There are various information systems that are being used and implemented in all types of industries and businesses. Absence of these automated systems cannot be imagined or thought of any longer because of the utility and reliability that these systems yield. Like most of the industries and organizations, banks have also adapted the information systems in their functioning and architecture. There is a lot of scope and application of these systems in this industry which is sure to yield many advantages and benefits. Business Processes in Banks There are several processes that are carried out in banks for achieving the business objectives and goals that are listed. Accounting and accounts related activities such as overall management of accounts by execution of operations such as open, close, deposit money, withdrawals, extracting statements, transferring money etc. Processing of loans and calculation of the interest/premium along with acceptance/rejection formalities Management of credit related facilities Processing of mortgage and related details Reconciliation processes and tasks Payment of bills by home and business entities Net banking facilities Customer oriented support and maintenance Management of the internal infrastructure, employees and their payroll Business Requirements The business requirements that are linked with banks and the banking industry are associated with the business processes that have been listed above. The requirements from the automated information systems shall be designed and implemented in such a manner that the above mentioned processes are met and are executed with perfection (Seethamraju, 2012). System Requirements from Automated Information Systems The automated systems that shall be installed in the banks shall include numerous functional aspects and capabilities in order to execute the activities that are related with management of accounts such as account opening, account closing, changes in the details of the account holder and likewise. There shall also be automated codes and programs installed for processing of the loans along with calculation of interests and premiums. Granting or rejecting the loan shall be performed automatically by using the details that are stored in the database and shall be retrieved from the same. Net banking has become an important requirement that is often looked out for by the customers. Transactions that are done through net banking shall also be managed along with the management of the credit related activities. There are also several other activities that are carried out in the banks in relation with the reconciliation tasks, payment of bills etc. There are a number of employees that are eng aged in banks at operational and managerial levels that shall be managed with the help of these systems and their features (Ryan, 2016). Many of the non-functional aspects shall also be reflected in the systems which are listed and specified below. Performance of the automated systems that are installed in the banks will be a mandatory quality that shall be ensured and shall reflect as the customers and employees will not appreciate delayed response and throughput times. System shall comprise of the quality as its reliability to make sure that the information provided in relation with the banking activities is valid and is also updated from time to time. Usability of the automated systems that are installed in the banks will be a mandatory quality that shall be ensured and shall reflect as the customers and employees will want the presence of all the desired functional aspects. System shall comprise of the quality as its availability to make sure that the information provided in relation with the banking activities is always accessible irrespective of the location and time. Security of the automated systems that are installed in the banks will be a mandatory quality that shall be ensured and shall reflect as the critical information is associated with banks and its exposure to malevolent entities will put many risks. System shall comprise of the quality as its maintainability to make sure that the information provided in relation with the banking activities is easy to upgrade. Flexibility and scalability of the automated systems that are installed in the banks will be a mandatory quality that shall be ensured and shall reflect as there will be many changes required to be implemented. Software and Vendor Selection for Banks MYOB Accounting Software There are several banks and units that have been set up that provide banking services to the customers. There are however a lot many firms that exist in the banking industry and it is because of this reason that there are hundreds of vendors that provide the automated systems that are customized and designed as per the requirements of the banks. However, there are only a few that have succeeded in establishing a unique and distinguished name in the market because of the services and quality of service that is provided to the customers. One such name in the list of vendors of software is MYOB that has a large customer base in the market. Real-time information along with the overview of the information through logical warehouses is displayed to the end users. Integration of all of the business processes and activities is easily done. Offline networking mode is enabled to deal with the drop in network performance and related issues. There is adherence maintained to the legal and regulatory standards. Level of personalization is high (Myob, 2016). Reckon There are a lot many firms that exist in the banking industry and it is because of this reason that there are hundreds of vendors that provide the automated systems that are customized and designed as per the requirements of the banks. However, there are only a few that have succeeded in establishing a unique and distinguished name in the market because of the services and quality of service that is provided to the customers. One such name in the list of vendors of software is Reckon that has a large customer base in the market. Maximum number of customers is engaged with this vendor presently because of the service quality and affordability. Usability of the software is also unmatched. Navigation and layout offered in the software is simple and easy to understand (Carey, 2015). Intuit QuickBooks Number of banks along with the organizations that provide banking services and facilities is not limited or restricted to a few. There are however a lot many firms that exist in the banking industry and it is because of this reason that there are hundreds of vendors that provide the automated systems that are customized and designed as per the requirements of the banks. However, there are only a few that have succeeded in establishing a unique and distinguished name in the market because of the services and quality of service that is provided to the customers. One such name in the list of vendors of software is Intuit QuickBooks that has a large customer base in the market. The vendor offers the software services and solutions at very low prices which allow banks to have their budget in control. Performance is a distinguishing feature that does not suffer even in case of large traffic. Latest security solutions and protection mechanisms are installed in the software and its database. Availability is another quality that is maintained in the banks so that the clients can always access the system (Advisoryhq, 2015). Saasu Number of banks along with the organizations that provide banking services and facilities is not limited or restricted to a few. There are however a lot many firms that exist in the banking industry and it is because of this reason that there are hundreds of vendors that provide the automated systems that are customized and designed as per the requirements of the banks. However, there are only a few that have succeeded in establishing a unique and distinguished name in the market because of the services and quality of service that is provided to the customers. One such name in the list of vendors of software is Saasu that has a large customer base in the market. It supports multiple currency and language options It can be easily integrated with other systems that are installed in the banks already as it has a high degree of compatibility Xero Many banks have been set up in every part of the globe with increase in users and demands of the users. There are however a lot many firms that exist in the banking industry and it is because of this reason that there are hundreds of vendors that provide the automated systems that are customized and designed as per the requirements of the banks. However, there are only a few that have succeeded in establishing a unique and distinguished name in the market because of the services and quality of service that is provided to the customers. One such name in the list of vendors of software is Xero that has a large customer base in the market. Monitoring and maintenance of the software offered is easy Reconciliation tasks and activities can be done with much ease High level of integration is offered (Miller, 2016). Utilization of Technology System Acquisition Methods Package Purchasing There are certain cases in which it becomes necessary to install the automated packages with immediate effect. In such cases it is required to have the availability of readymade packages that have the features similar to the requirements of the banks. Package purchasing that comes in the form of readymade packages with few alterations applicable can be installed. These packages are very reliable as they are tested and in use by other organizations. Feedback can be easily collected from the other users. However, there may be issues with the adherence to the specific requirements of the organization. Outsourcing The most applicable and in use method for acquiring the software packages for banks is the outsourcing method. It is not possible for banks to have in-house development of the required packages due to lack of skills and infrastructure. Outsourcing is a method in which a specialized external party is contacted and the contract along with the specifications is provided to this party along with the budget and schedule for the delivery. Custom Developed Software One method that can be used by banks for using the automated software is using the custom developed software. This software can easily be installed in the architecture of banks. It will also offer several advantages as its design will be completely in adherence to the one provided and there can be changes requested in case of non-adherence. In many cases it has been seen that generalized software cannot be implemented in all the banks and units. There is a certain specialization and modification that is necessary and these packages fulfill such requirements. There can be cost limitations that may appear as a hurdle in this case as these are relatively high in terms of cost. Efficiency Levels Project budget and project schedule are the two factors that play a significant role in deciding the efficiency and there shall be a match made between the estimated and actual values of the two. With the installation of automated packages, the manual processing shall drop which shall be analyzed for understanding the efficiency levels. The employees that are engaged with the organization shall also provide a positive feedback on the system that is installed and their duties shall also reduce. The employees that are engaged with the organization shall also provide a positive feedback on the system that is installed. Potential Security Risks and Data Breaches Confidentiality Attacks Breaching Breaching is the most common form of a security attack that is executed on the system and same will apply in case of the automated packages installed in the banks as well. The employees and customers will use the system which will be installed and implemented over the network which will create many access points that will be used as agents in the attack (Wood, 2016). Unauthorized Tracking Tracking through unauthorized means will become easier through gaining an entry to the system through the networks or the database or any other component. Data Mining Attacks Automated packages that will be installed in the banks will comprise of several technologies and concepts. Data mining and data analysis will be two such technologies that will be used and the attacks related to them will be possible (Amato, 2016). Malware Attacks There are several malware that have been designed that are created solely for the purpose of impacting the information and causing damage to it. Some of these malware include spyware, viruses, ransomware, worms and many more. In case of the automated systems at banks, these malware can be easily introduced through any of the entry points which may get triggered and multiply them. These are the packages that are deliberately created and can cause harm to the system in a massive way. Integrity Attacks Message Alteration Employees and customers associated with the banks will make use of the automated system by exchanging information with other parties. For instance, an employee may send a banking report to the fellow employee through the system by extracting the details from the database. Also, there will be exchange of messages related to banking activities that will be executed. Alterations in the contents or the structure of these messages may be done by the hackers which will be damaging for the integrity of the information (Microsoft, 2016). Media Alteration Employees and customers associated with the banks will make use of the automated system by exchanging information with other parties. For instance, an employee may send a banking report to the fellow employee through the system by extracting the details from the database. Also, there will be exchange of messages related to banking activities that will be executed. Alterations in the contents or the structure of these media contents may be done by the hackers which will be damaging for the integrity of the information (Aws, 2016). Availability Attacks Flooding Attacks There may be denial and distributed denial attacks that may be executed on the services of the system. These attacks will be executed by flooding the systems with unwanted traffic (Nichols, 2016). Server Impersonating Servers used in the automated systems for banks will be many in number. These servers may be impersonated to behave as other units and impact the availability (Mahmoud, 2015). QoS Abuse Non-adherence to quality standards may be done to abuse the Quality of Services (QoS) and bring down the availability (Panetta, 2016). Protection Measures for Mitigation of the Risks Banks and the banking organizations shall make use of technology in protecting their systems by deploying the automated anti-attacking tools for preventing availability and confidentiality attacks. Two-fold authentication along with advanced access control shall be implemented in the banks (Lu, 2014). The attacks on the information in terms of confidentiality, availability and integrity are mainly carried out by the involvement of networks in one way or the other. These networks and related attacks shall be made secure by improving the state of network security. It can be done by using automated tools and applications to improve the network protection and detection of the attacks (Jing, 2014) There have been several advancements done in the field of technology in which Cryptography holds and important place. With the application of cryptography, the information is encrypted and changes to it cipher form which can only be converted to its original form by making use of a secure key. System experts shall install and keep a track of the network and system activities through automated tools for tracking and detection of intruders. Many of the security attacks are designed and attempted on specific versions or systems. Therefore, upgrades shall be done at regular intervals. Proxy servers and firewalls shall be installed as well (Bhabad, 2016). Conclusion Maintaining a pace with the changing nature of technology is essential for every industry and the same applies to banks as well. The banking industry has expanded and grown at such a scale that there are massive information sets that are associated with it along with huge number of customers and many services that need to be provided to these customers. It is because of these reasons that the automated systems shall be deployed in the banks. The requirements from the automated information systems shall be designed and implemented in such a manner that the business processes are met and are executed with perfection. Net banking has become an important requirement that is often looked out for by the customers. Transactions that are done through net banking shall be managed along with the management of the credit related activities. There are also several other activities that are carried out in the banks in relation with the reconciliation tasks, payment of bills etc. which shall be ma naged properly. The most applicable and in use method for acquiring the software packages for banks is the outsourcing method. It is not possible for banks to have in-house development of the required packages due to lack of skills and infrastructure. Outsourcing is a method in which a specialized external party is contacted and the contract along with the specifications is provided to this party along with the budget and schedule for the delivery. There are several risks to the security of these systems that shall be dealt with the use and installation of automated packages and protection mechanisms along with administrative advancements. References Advisoryhq.com, (2015) 5 Best Small Business Accounting Software in Australia. [online] AdvisoryHQ. Available at: https://www.advisoryhq.com/articles/5-best-small-business-accounting-software-in-australia/ [Accessed 19 May 2017]. Amato, N. (2016). The hidden costs of a data breach. [online] Journal of Accountancy. Available at: https://www.journalofaccountancy.com/news/2016/jul/hidden-costs-of-data-breach-201614870.html [Accessed 19 May 2017]. Aws (2016). Overview of Security Processes. [online] Available at: https://d0.awsstatic.com/whitepapers/aws-security-whitepaper.pdf [Accessed 19 May 2017]. Bhabad, M. (2015). Internet of Things: Architecture, Security Issues and Countermeasures. [online] Available at: https://www.ijcaonline.org/research/volume125/number14/bhabad-2015-ijca-906251.pdf [Accessed 19 May 2017]. Carey, M. (2015) Cloud Accounting Overview 2015: MYOB Essentials vs Xero vs Intuit QuickBooks Online vs Reckon One - Digital First. [online] Digital First. Available at: https://www.digitalfirst.com/2015-overview-cloud-accounting-software/ [Accessed 19 May 2017]. Jing, Q. (2014). Security of the Internet of Things: perspectives and challenges. [online] Available at: https://csi.dgist.ac.kr/uploads/Seminar/1407_IoT_SSH.pdf [Accessed 19 May 2017]. Lu, C. (2014). Overview of Security and Privacy Issues in the Internet of Things. [online] Available at: https://www.cse.wustl.edu/~jain/cse574-14/ftp/security.pdf [Accessed 19 May 2017]. Mahmoud, R. (2015). Internet of things (IoT) security: Current status, challenges and prospective measures - IEEE Xplore Document. [online] Ieeexplore.ieee.org. Available at: https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/document/7412116/ [Accessed 19 May 2017]. Microsoft (2016). Core Infrastructure Optimization: IT Security Processes - Best Practices for Business IT. [online] Available at: https://www.microsoft.com/india/infrastructure/capabilities/itprocesses.mspx [Accessed 19 May 2017]. Miller, K. (2016) Xero Review 2016 | Reviews, Ratings, Complaints, Comparisons. [online] Merchant Maverick. Available at: https://www.merchantmaverick.com/reviews/xero-review/ [Accessed 19 May 2017]. Myob, (2016) Online Accounting Software for Businesses | MYOB. [online] Myob.com. Available at: https://www.myob.com/au/accounting-software/compare [Accessed 19 May 2017]. Nichols, A. (2016). Cite a Website - Cite This For Me. [online] Sans.org. Available at: https://www.sans.org/reading-room/whitepapers/auditing/perspective-threats-risk-analysis-process-63 [Accessed 19 May 2017]. Panetta, K. (2016). Gartner's Top 10 Security Predictions 2016 - Smarter With Gartner. [online] Smarter With Gartner. Available at: https://www.gartner.com/smarterwithgartner/top-10-security-predictions-2016/ [Accessed 19 May 2017]. Ryan, E. (2016) The Evolution of Accounting Software: Past, Present and Future|. [online] Gaaaccounting.com. Available at: https://www.gaaaccounting.com/the-evolution-of-accounting-software-past-present-and-future/ [Accessed 19 May 2017]. Seethamraju, R. (2012). Business process management: a missing link in business education. Business Process Management Journal, 18(3), pp.532-547. Wood, P. (2016). Social hacking: The easy way to breach network security. [online] ComputerWeekly. Available at: https://www.computerweekly.com/tip/Social-hacking-The-easy-way-to-breach-network-security [Accessed 19 May 2017]

The Vision Of The Department Of Homeland Security Example For Students

The Vision Of The Department Of Homeland Security Change in strategy The vision of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), is â€Å"to ensure a homeland that is safe, secure, and resilient against terrorism and other hazards† (United States Department of Homeland Security, 2015). To achieve this vision, DHS has developed five core missions these are, â€Å"to prevent terrorism and enhance security, to secure and manage US borders, to ensure and administer immigration laws, to safeguard and secure cyberspace, and to ensure resilience to disasters.† To accomplish this DHS must have quality skilled staff, only with stable sustained leadership can there be any hope for a resilient workforce. Although there are many agencies which make up DHS, these agencies tend to function in such a manner that is often described as being decentralized. Perhaps the biggest reason for this decentralization is the need of these individual agencies to desire a sense of autonomy which in turn leads to tension amongst the various components as well as headquarter elements. Only by implementing a stable, sustained sense of leadership within DHS, can there be any chance of creating positive lasting change across the various agencies. Furthermore, this sustained leadership will aide by helping to foster a culture in which the employees who make up these various agencies are now motivated in a positive manner. We will write a custom essay on The Vision Of The Department Of Homeland Security specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now Another important step is the implementation of better workforce management. As the institute of medicine described, â€Å"Leaders are not born, they are grown; thus, to address deficiencies in leadership, DHS must institutionalize leadership development in its components. The leadership development program needs to delineate not only expectations of employees but what employees can expect from the organization â€Å"(Help wanted at DHS, 2013, p. 103). By including more training as well as career development, DHS would not only aide in retention but they may also be able to increase employee engagement. An important element for engagement which should be developed is the ability of leaders and employees alike to have fair access to career mobility in recognition of high performance. With a more diligent workforce management along with an increase in the health of their employees, DHS would be creating a more resilient workforce that is ready to deal with the â€Å"chronic and acut e stressors† of their daily work (IOM, 2013, P. 116). Can the leadership problems within DHS be rectified, indeed they can but at what costs? Would not the money and resources being spent on fixing the myriad of problems within DHS be better spent by allocating those funds to other areas particularly local, state, and tribal governments who are on the front lines so to speak during an emergency? It would not be advantageous to attempt to expand DHS in the hopes of improving, instead the effort should be redirected towards those agencies such as FEMA, which already have the expertise and the resources to effectively respond in times of crisis. Leadership Change As previously indicated, DHS has several top level positions which need to be filled. This would be a perfect opportunity for DHS to reevaluate the leadership roles in order to make better hiring decisions. Since the biggest problems currently facing the department are declining workforce moral, and high turnover, it is critical to select leaders cautiously. What are the qualities in leaders which aid in lifting the motivation of those employees which may feel disgruntled or even distrusting? How can the organization regain the trust of its employees who have so little trust in the future of the organization? One essential quality a leader must possess is excellent communication skills. Lack of communication is a key issue currently facing the department. Communication gaps between leader and subordinates, as well as between leaders, may be the biggest contributing factor leading to a dysfunctional organization. For successful change efforts, the leader should incorporate messages which are in line with the vision of DHS through communication at all levels of the department both internally as well as externally. Therefore, this should be a top quality in considering perspective applicants to fill these vacancies. .u075d3c9aec585d482a210a16d31508c1 , .u075d3c9aec585d482a210a16d31508c1 .postImageUrl , .u075d3c9aec585d482a210a16d31508c1 .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .u075d3c9aec585d482a210a16d31508c1 , .u075d3c9aec585d482a210a16d31508c1:hover , .u075d3c9aec585d482a210a16d31508c1:visited , .u075d3c9aec585d482a210a16d31508c1:active { border:0!important; } .u075d3c9aec585d482a210a16d31508c1 .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .u075d3c9aec585d482a210a16d31508c1 { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #95A5A6; } .u075d3c9aec585d482a210a16d31508c1:active , .u075d3c9aec585d482a210a16d31508c1:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #2C3E50; } .u075d3c9aec585d482a210a16d31508c1 .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative ; } .u075d3c9aec585d482a210a16d31508c1 .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #2980B9; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .u075d3c9aec585d482a210a16d31508c1 .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .u075d3c9aec585d482a210a16d31508c1 .ctaButton { background-color: #7F8C8D!important; color: #2980B9; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://artscolumbia.org/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .u075d3c9aec585d482a210a16d31508c1:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #34495E!important; } .u075d3c9aec585d482a210a16d31508c1 .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left : 18px; top: 0; } .u075d3c9aec585d482a210a16d31508c1 .u075d3c9aec585d482a210a16d31508c1-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .u075d3c9aec585d482a210a16d31508c1:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } READ: Role Of Diplomacy In International Relations EssayOnce leaders are hired, the next crucial step for any organization is to build and maintain a core team. As an organization cannot exist with a leader alone, it is essential for the leader to identify and improve each subordinate’s talent and performance, while acknowledging their innovative efforts. The second step would be for the leader to look ahead, be flexible and strategic about how the team evolves and be able to solve issues as they arise within the team. In order to build and lead a team, it is crucial for the leader to improve interpersonal skills. Without knowing how to build trust and connection with the team, it is impossible for the followers to learn and grow. The leaders must b flexible in terms of how to navigate the followers in ways that inspire, motivate, and allow them to perform at their best. 1. Fusion of Actionable intelligence information Actionable intelligence pertains to information which will force the consumer of intelligence products to initiate action such as using mitigation techniques as a means by which to lessen the impact of an impending threat. As part of DHS’s information sharing with state and local entities, several provisions of the 9/11 commission Act related to support provided directly to fusion centers. Fusion centers are receiving support and centers have been set up in various states so as to assist the government in addressing the gaps regarding terrorism related information. Fusion centers should be capable of transforming raw data into actionable intelligence. This can be achieved by implementing and planning the integration of data, as well as through an information technology infrastructure which meets the needs of the department , however, the objectives and mission must be clearly defined. Critical data must be identified and the implementation of this data must take place in sequential order. Also, a proper definition of the approach regarding the means by which data will be integrated must be provided. 2. Prevention and deterrence of attacks Actionable intelligence may be used as a means by which to deter or prevent attacks. This role may be utilized in the analysis process. This phase requires strategic analysis, along with alternative analysis as well as operational support. The execution cycle should be supported by actionable intelligence in order to protect the nation’s borders. The proper understanding of the significance and capability of this resource is essential to its proper use. Actionable intelligence requires little if any further development in order for action to be taken, it may be acted upon through executive action, covert response, or both (Homeland Security, 2006). The key is the tactical and strategic employment of experts’ known for their ability to interpret actionable intelligence systems. Successful exploitation of this existing resource may lead to successfully deterring future terrorist attacks. 3. Protection and hardening of targets Target hardening is the means by which those entrusted with securing key targets such as embassies, take additional steps to further hamper those seeking to attack that specific target i.e. Jersey barriers to slow, or redirect traffic. Actionable intelligence may be utilized, along with a target hardening approach, as a means to protect targets. However, these objectives can only be met through the use of strategic actionable intelligence. To determine whether or not a target should be hardened, DHS should conduct frequent threat assessments so as to determine the vulnerability of the perspective target. 4. Responding to attacks and recovering from disasters DHS is responsible for leading a unified effort in securing the United States by preventing and deterring terrorist attacks and by responding to new threats and or hazards (DHS, 2013). Intelligence analysis (IA) is a key component of the intelligence community. The IA is DHS’s headquarters intelligence element and is led by the undersecretary of intelligence and analysis with guidance from the Homeland Security council, as well as the Homeland Security intelligence council, as a member of the intelligence community, the IA is responsible for utilizing actionable data from multiple resources as a means by which to identify and asses current and potential threats facing the United States. The IA provides actionable intelligence to support national and DHS decision making while working closely with state, local, tribal, and private sector partners. .ubc91487c0fe2c3186c5558dfcbd8908e , .ubc91487c0fe2c3186c5558dfcbd8908e .postImageUrl , .ubc91487c0fe2c3186c5558dfcbd8908e .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .ubc91487c0fe2c3186c5558dfcbd8908e , .ubc91487c0fe2c3186c5558dfcbd8908e:hover , .ubc91487c0fe2c3186c5558dfcbd8908e:visited , .ubc91487c0fe2c3186c5558dfcbd8908e:active { border:0!important; } .ubc91487c0fe2c3186c5558dfcbd8908e .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .ubc91487c0fe2c3186c5558dfcbd8908e { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #95A5A6; } .ubc91487c0fe2c3186c5558dfcbd8908e:active , .ubc91487c0fe2c3186c5558dfcbd8908e:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #2C3E50; } .ubc91487c0fe2c3186c5558dfcbd8908e .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative ; } .ubc91487c0fe2c3186c5558dfcbd8908e .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #2980B9; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .ubc91487c0fe2c3186c5558dfcbd8908e .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .ubc91487c0fe2c3186c5558dfcbd8908e .ctaButton { background-color: #7F8C8D!important; color: #2980B9; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://artscolumbia.org/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .ubc91487c0fe2c3186c5558dfcbd8908e:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #34495E!important; } .ubc91487c0fe2c3186c5558dfcbd8908e .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left : 18px; top: 0; } .ubc91487c0fe2c3186c5558dfcbd8908e .ubc91487c0fe2c3186c5558dfcbd8908e-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .ubc91487c0fe2c3186c5558dfcbd8908e:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } READ: Rappelling and ascending Essay5. Improve cost efficiencies within DHS DHS is seeking to improve in its cost effectiveness, tis can be accomplished by incorporating a result-oriented focus. An integrated intelligence approach may be adopted in order to better assist performance measures. The usage of actionable intelligence is expected to result in a decrease in costs to the department, ultimately leading to a reduction in overall costs. Additionally, in order to improve cost effectiveness, it should be noted that by placing qualified men and women into leadership positions based on merit rather than political affiliation, there would be a substantial saving in costs due to those individuals providing a more solid foundation for the agency as a whole. Currently there are many vacancies within DHS which could be filled by qualified individuals as opposed to expanding into a larger facility as has been suggested. These qualified individuals would also help by fostering an atmosphere where people want to work and are therefore more productive. Furthermore, instead of looking at the possibility of expanding DHS into one all-encompassing facility, efforts should be made to see if certain agencies within DHS namely FEMA, are indeed better if they were to be elevated to cabinet level positions as they already have a working knowledge of what needs to be done to prepare for any eventuality which may happen. This would also serve as a means in which to simplify the agency rather than continuously seeking to expand.

Video Game Industry Analysis

Nintendo History, Development, and Growth In 1989, Fusajiro Yamauchi launched a small company called Marufuku Corporation in Kyoto Japan. The founded corporation later on turned to be Nintendo Company. Before turning into the renowned Nintendo, Marufuku was popular for the playing cards the firm produced to be used when participating in the Hanafuda, the Japanese game.Advertising We will write a custom case study sample on Video Game Industry Analysis specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The company solidified its playing card business position between 1907 and WWII. Marufuku started to supply the Japanese communities with Hanafuda cards in 1925. The Japanese amusement market was greatly devastated by WWII, though Marufuku and the playing card industry advanced more than any other corporations. Whereas the manufacturing plant for Marufuku was damaged during the war, the corporation succeeded to forge ahead in the following periods. In 1950, Yamauchi assumed the position of the president in the firm and got on a variety of strategies with the purpose of rationalizing and modernizing the way the firm was controlled. Marufuku factories were consolidated by Yamauchi who then altered its name to Nintendo in 1951. In the postwar era when Yamauchi realized that the playing cards business boomed and there were shortages, he reacted by inspiring the corporation to produce quality plastic playing cards. While challenges were encountered in the preliminary plastic cards production, the firm began its mass assembly in 1953. Nintendo was able to sell playing cards that had the imprints of animation characters after completing a business agreement with Disney in 1959 whereby the firm had to share some profits acquired from selling the advanced cards. Nintendo opted to become public in 1962 when the company realized that the business was remarkably successful. 1960s to 1980s diversifications Nintendo pursued its drive to innov ate and diversify in 1960s and this helped the company to become common name in 1980s. The glowing company developed most of its new product lines in 1963. The game department was successful and in 1969, it built a unique game manufacturing plant in Uji Town. The first electronic technology was introduced by Nintendo in 1970.Advertising Looking for case study on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More An example of the Beam Gun Series technology produced by Nintendo was the shooting system called laser-clay pigeon. This company expanded its business of projection based games to the western markets. The arcade game technologies prospered in the subsequent periods and Nintendo was in the frontline. For instance, Nintendo cooperated with Mitsubishi Electric in 1975 to develop filmed game systems via the use of video player technology. The technology emerged as the first artless home video game in 1977. Nintendo also started to feature some of its high-tech amusement arcade games. In 1978, the company produced and used microcomputers to sell coin operated video games. Such innovations led to the emergence of Donkey Kong in 1981 giving the video games (arcade) its stereo sound and complex graphics. Nintendo similarly sold watch line and game products including football with digital quartz micro hardware in 1980s. The company was able to expand its markets to the US in 1982 as it focused on the marketing and developing household video technologies. Nintendo built new production plants in 1983 to meet Famicom production requirements in Uji town. Despite the reported losses in the video game industry in the late 1985, Nintendo used the swift selling Famicom to enter the US market. It however seized the US market by redesigning the Famicom to produce Nintendo Entertainment System. Nintendo Company became widely recognized for the numerous Pokemon pocket monster, Luigi, Zelda, Mario and other characte rs. The firm’s handheld gaming system also known as Game Boy has dominated the market from the time when it made its first debut. In fact, the Game Boy advanced to give the cutting-edge play station version while the Game Cube which materialized as its gaming console overhauled the Xbox. The latter product was deemed as the most prevalent and succeeding console to the PlayStation 2 that Sony tendered to the market. Although the console market has been ruled by Sony, the novel Nintendo DS and Game Boy Advance have continuously steered the market for the handhelds despite the introduction of the PlayStation Portable (PSP) by Sony.Advertising We will write a custom case study sample on Video Game Industry Analysis specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More As Nintendo’s consoles gained a bigger market share, the firm has maintained to be the most interactive market game pioneer as a result of its continuous innovations, Silicon graphics and animated characters presently designed by Shigeru Miyamoto. After the stepping down of Hiroshi Yamauchi in 2002, Nintendo appeared to have taken a new turn. The corporation assumed business as usual but offered low priced GameCube version to the Chinese market. Besides, Nintendo purchased 3% stake of the toy producer Bandai Corporation and Japanese software developer. Internal strengths Human resources capabilities Nintendo is capable of hiring employees with rare talents in building both software and hardware that supports video games. Moreover, the company has one of the few talents that can design and develop rare video games that attract large clientele not only in Japan, but also in other parts of the world. Having such rare talents within the workforce provides the firm with internal capability and increased competitive advantage. Investment in human capital has enabled the company to be more competitive through the value that the workforce creates for its custome rs. Financial resources capabilities With increased sales, Nintendo has accumulated enough financial resources that enable it to expand and finance its operations effectively. These financial resources have also enabled the company to enhance its research and development activities. As a result, the company has remained ahead in developing new products that are oriented to the market. Introduction of new products in the market has led to increased sales and revenue adding to the benefits of the firm. Besides, increased financial capability is the strength behind hiring highly talented and experienced workforce which has generally contributed to the value addition. Organization structure of the company The way the company is organized and managed has also increased its efficiency and effectiveness. The company has adopted the less bureaucratic structure that leads to efficiency in decision making. Even though the company has been divided into various branches, the line between the ma nagement and the bottom employees is extremely thin.Advertising Looking for case study on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More This has increased employee attachment not only to the business, but also to their working environment. Such a structure leads to effective and efficient management processes. Ultimately, the internal structural organization and effective management processes enhance the competitive advantage of the company and keeps it ahead of other firms in the industry. Technological capabilities Nintendo has technological capabilities that enable it to develop new game consoles. These technological capabilities have made the firm to lead in the video game market by introducing new products as soon as the popularity of one game diminishes. Besides developing new software and hardware, Nintendo is capable of developing security codes for its consoles and avoids counterfeit products. This internal technological capability has enabled the company to monopolize the Japanese and US markets for a very long time. Internal weaknesses Top Management Nintendo top management comprises of individuals from o ne family. Although the family is the founder of the company and the major decision maker, some individuals might lack the ability to manage the company effectively. As a result, the company performance may decrease leading to the loss in revenue and market share. Nintendo has not moved away from the old Japanese business models where the company is managed by family members despite incompetence. Such incompetence in the management may destroy the company reputation resulting into a profound reduction in the market performance. Distribution channels Although distribution channels that Nintendo uses to sell its products may be seen as strength, they may also be disadvantageous in terms of management. Managing such fragmented distribution channels may be cumbersome especially in a wide geographical location of US. Moreover, some of the channels may be less productive thereby increasing the cost of operations. Besides difficulties in managing distribution channels, the company also fac es difficulties in expanding to newer markets. This is primarily due to cultural differences. Most of its products are designed according to Japanese cultural aspects which might not fit well in other cultures. Porter’s five force analysis Rival sellers Nintendo has been a very strong player in the game console industry. The company competed with Sony in terms of unit sales of game consoles from 1995 to 2000. The GameCube released about the same time as Xbox cost $199 which was approximately $100 below Playstation 2 and Xbox’s prices (Sterman, Jekarl and Reavis, 13). Such a big difference in price permits the company to target at the low segment of the market; young people from 7 to 20 years of age who cannot afford to buy more expensive consoles and do not require more features as compared to mature age groups. Microsoft is also one of the leaders in game console market. The company’s Xbox has taken a big share of the market. This makes Microsoft a household na me in the industry. Xbox with its sequel is on top of the wave and has been competing with Sonny fiercely. The firm’s strong brand name in home electronics, software and game consoles makes it a big threat in the market, especially for future game consoles (all-in-one electronic devices supporting home entertainment, gaming and web browsing). The Xbox is Microsoft’s first entry into the market but aggressive marketing by the company has resulted in much awareness of the product among the gamers. Xbox attempts to beat Playstation in almost every feature, hoping to compensate for its late arrival and grab some market share. Moreover, Microsoft is notorious for overusing hardware resources for its operating systems and this leads to gamers suspecting that the use of more advanced hardware enhances the features of Xbox. Buyer bargaining power Since the game console is a consumer product, it is good to depend highly on sales. Thus, the consumer has a high bargaining power o n the Nintendo gaming consoles. The market according to the case has increased heavily because of Nintendo’s sport and fun games. Sales also increased after lowering the price of the game consoles. Suppliers bargaining power There is high bargaining power of suppliers in regard to hardware. Therefore, it becomes necessary to calculate the product prices regarding to the price of the hardware units used. Prices for preceding game consoles were high because the output of microprocessors was generally lower than expected. Again, there were shortages of inputs like blue Light Emitting Diodes required for the BruRay Drives. Game publishers and developers provide the games for Nintendo’s consoles thus the company has to listen to their demands and needs. The company is therefore compelled to have more games developed for the newer consoles than for the earlier version because of the complicated architecture. Threat of new entrants There is a very low risk of new entrants bec ause of the development phase which has to be completed to successfully release a new gaming console. That is, a lot of money is required to enter the gaming market. Already, market saturation has been reached with only three key console providers. Moreover, the key problem is that those who develop games would not create games for a new, unpopular and inexperienced platform when they are not sure how the new platform will sell. However, PC and home electronics manufacturers, software developers and handset makers may decide to enter the gaming market as they have the full potential in terms of resources and coverage. Substitutes The very threatening substitute is the upcoming Cloud Gaming Service commonly referred to as OnLive.com. There is a big potential that this expectation is not measurable yet because it is still in beta status. Other substitutes include PCs, calculators, game machines and cellular phones all of which have built-in games. SWOT analysis Strengths Establish ed and give a competitive advantage Robust revenue growth provides greater stability Weaknesses Dependence on suppliers Declining cash position Opportunities Positive outlook for entertainment industry Changing and positive trends in consumption patterns Threats Short product lifecycle Shift in consumer preference Currency exchange fluctuation Evaluation of Nintendo’s corporate strategy Nintendo Corporation created a strong brand name through innovation and licensing, although, this legend seems to fall apart as profits decline. The reasons for this decline are affected by crucial strategic issues which become the main disadvantage to the company. The first issue is associated with the company’s inefficient manufacturing structures that decrease the quality of products which affects the reputation badly and decrease the product competitiveness. The heart of most distinct management practice in Japan is their productivity improvement, quality control (QC) circles, total quality control (TQM) activities or the labor relation-collectively termed as â€Å"Kaizen† (DeWit and Meyer 156). It is argued that the implication of companywide quality control or TQC have been that the concepts have assisted Japanese organizations to build a way of thinking that is process-oriented and come up with strategies that ensure continuous improvement. In Nintendo however, the company failed to perform well or make improvement in Kaizen or develop an efficient manufacturing structure to ensure high quality products thus causing an enormous damage to the business. Nintendo’s failure to sustain an efficient manufacturing structure or implement Kaizen effectively to ensure high quality products damaged their reputation and incredible brand name causing them to lose their competitive advantage in the market. In building competitive advantage, an organization must meet the expectations and needs of its customers. The failure for Nintendo’s product qualities to meet the expectations and needs of customers completely swiped away the company’s reputation and decreased the confidence in the market. It is also pointed that, good reputation is what all businesses would wish to have, yet it is more valuable in some cases than in others. Good reputation is among the intangible resources for Nintendo which differentiates the firm from other competitors, enabling them to charge their excellent quality and product a premium price. Hence, the diminishing reputation of Nintendo weakens core competencies and creates a negative prejudice which affects its competitive advantage directly and thus becomes a significant threat to the business. Besides the reputation and quality issues, Nintendo is not swift in responding to market shift in demand and thus weakens its competitive advantage. For instance, the delays in launching of many consoles in Europe due to problems in manufacturing caused the company failure in fulfilling the market demands. This increasingly put Nintendo at stake since other strong competitors like Sony and Microsoft were swift in gaining a share in those markets. It enabled them to enjoy the first-mover advantages. First-movers may gain competitive advantages in creating distribution channels, gaining the consumer attention or linking with the specialized suppliers. Any product of class advertised first tends to impress more strongly in the minds of consumers than the ones that follow. As a result, Nintendo lost a large share of the market and its competitive advantage in the gaming industry; they did not benefit from first mover advantages leaving them behind other competitors in markets outside US and Japan. Business level strategy Since Nintendo’s conception, the business strategy was based on developing video game machines. The company focused all its strengths in innovating gaming consoles progressively. As the pioneer in the industry, the company developed a coin-operated video g ame machine called Famicom in the 80s which surpassed other competing products in terms of technology. The company focused on developing gaming machines that could support several games unlike the machines offered by competitors. Through licensing, the company was able to expand in Japan and the United States. As time went by, the company enhanced its innovation to capture the differing needs of consumers. For the United States, the firm redesigned the Fomicom to develop Nintendo Entertainment System that could fit and compete in the market. The company also opened new channels that would be more close to consumers. Through retailers, the business was able to expand to all major cities of the United States. This expansion and business monotony was also enhanced by the strategy of securing their gaming machines such that other games could not be played in them. With increasing competition, Nintendo’s business strategy focused more on innovation. The company led competitors in terms of product research and development. It was the first to introduce the 8-bit systems, 16-bit systems and 64-bit systems. These in particular made the company to succeed year after year and by 1992, the firm had acquired 60% of the market share. The company was already established well in Japan and US thus dropped licensing as the supportive business strategy. When Sony and other competitors penetrated the market with new products, Nintendo’s market share and profitability dropped significantly. The company responded by changing its business strategy and focusing on developing gaming machines using plug-in cartridges in conjunction with Silicon Graphics. This product which was targeted to children and young teenagers boosted sales until Sony introduced the Playstation. Nintendo could no longer compete effectively as more competitors such as Microsoft introduced more advanced technology in the market. As a result, the company’s GamaCube was not successful as expect ed. However, the company reinvented its business strategy and developed Wii. The strategy was to use off-the-shelf components to assemble a much cheaper gaming machine that could be offered at a cheaper price. The product was also targeted to a much wider audience through innovation that enabled motion sensitivity, wireless control that gave way to interactive games. This new innovation became the core competitive strength and brought back Nintendo to the leading position in the industry. Nintendo structure and control systems The strategic organizational structure of Nintendo is such that the decisions stems from the higher levels of management and flows down the ladder. It is a kind of centralized structure in which strategic decisions are closely held by middle and lower level managers. While the licensing and merging decisions are made solely by the management, product development decisions are a combined effort of both the managers and the developing teams. The managers trigger the product strategy when competition becomes too stiff and sales decline. The design and development ideas are the ingenuity of the research and development teams. Notably, strategy achievement and decisions incorporation are assessed through two mechanisms. First, the managers consider the operation measures in which they measure customer satisfaction and retention levels. The reason is that the major objective of the strategic decision is to capture a larger market and eventually increase sales. Therefore, customer perspective becomes a major control system. Secondly, the company is sales-driven. Competitive pressure is determined by the company sales as compared to other competitors. Therefore, innovation and learning are also control systems used in the company where sales growth is the measure. Throughout, the company has referred its success to sales growth of each product launched. Recommendations For the company to succeed in the future, it must invest in technological adv ancement. Technology will enable the company to remain at the elevated competitive edge. Also, the company will continue to use its technological advancement to introduce new products into the market ahead of its competitors. This capability will provide the company with a stronger competitive advantage. In addition, the company must produce games or items portraying the global outlook to attract as many markets as possible. The future of Nintendo does not necessarily depend on innovation alone. There are other elements to consider in order for the firm to capture a royal market share and drive sales. Target markets should comprise of consumers with the ability to sustain a high financial status, not just young kids. After all, the success of the business depends on the ability of the customers to make repeated purchases. As other competitors focus on innovation, Nintendo should differentiate by aiming to market its products in the untapped markets such as the emerging economies. It s financial position and brand name can act as the effective marketing strengths for this expansion. Given the level of competition in the gaming industry, Nintendo needs to offer unlimited interactive entertainment to all the consumers at average prices to enable it capture dominant market share. To realize this, the company must focus in the production of a product that it feels to have higher competitive advantage over other market rivals such as Sony and Microsoft. Works Cited DeWit, Bob and R. Meyer. Strategy: Process, Content, Context. New York, NY: Thomson International Business Press, 2004. Print. Sterman, John, Jekarl Kahn and Reavis Cate. 2008. Sony’s Battle for Video Game Supremacy. 2008. Web. This case study on Video Game Industry Analysis was written and submitted by user Samiyah Suarez to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.

Gattaca - Perfection essays

Gattaca - Perfection essays The Film Gattaca Presents a World Destroyed by the pursuit of our perfection. Discuss. Andrew Niccols film Gattaca does present a world where the world has been destroyed by humans pursuit of perfection. It is the characters in the movie which show this, Vincent, Jerome s film shows us a world that has been destroyed by the human pursuit of perfection. Vincent is considered an invalid in the world of Gattaca, because he wasnt created the valid way. The valid way is done through altering the genetic code of a person, a person engineered to be perfect. Vincent however is anything but perfect; he has a 99% of Heart Failure and is presumed to die at the age of 30. The world of Gattaca is one based solely on perfection, this is shown by the selection criteria of the Gattaca program, in which only the perfect enter, valids. This shows the audience on how intent the world of Gattaca is on being perfect, with the creation of a perfect civilization. The world is destroyed; there is a new underclass that is discriminated upon and not given a chance to succeed in the world. One scene in particular which shows this is when the Investigator has all the Invalids lined up for testing, we see darkness which shows the audience that these invalids live a dark life. It is this new underclass which shows us the destruction of the world in Gattaca al l for the pursuit of our own perfection. On the other Hand we have Jerome Morrow who is an valid. Jerome has the perfect helix so to speak, with an off the scale IQ and a heart of an ox. Jerome is an example of how the worlds people are with their pursuit to perfection. Jerome lives under the burden of perfection which is a burden which many in the Gattaca world would be und ...

Write a own ShortStory Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Write a own ShortStory - Essay Example But Paul is certain that he is not really going home, for there's no more home in this place anymore. He is there to visit his father - a detainee in Batangas Provincial Prison for almost six years now, and charged with drug trafficking. Today is his father's fifty-first birthday. Secondly, he needed to see him as this might be the last time they may see each other. In a few days, he will be bound to leave the country to work overseas. Since Paul's father was arrested at the same time his mother died of heart attack, Paul and his younger brother John left the province for Manila to stay with their childless and widowed aunt. The last time he's been to this town was five years ago. Paul's heart beat faster while sitting in the waiting area after the officer had escorted him to the place. It was a commingle of emotions he had inside him, but surely anger was thicker there than any layer there was. Suddenly a worn-out looking old man sat in front of him at the other side of the table. Paul almost never recognized him, for he looked so old. It has been so long since he saw that face. It was very different now. "I miss my family." his father said. With this, Paul looked at him crossly, resisting to speak any foul language. His father, slowly becoming aware of his son's disposition on him, didn't speak anymore.