Apartment Building Structures in nineteenth and twentieth centuries Research Paper

3 Steps to Acing Your Upcoming Group Interview You’ve been approached in for a board meet. Perhaps you’re threatened. Perhaps frightened. Possibly you’re not even sure you comprehend what that really involves. Whatever your degree of fear, here are three simple strides to traversing your board meet tranquilly and in one piece. Stage 1: BEFOREYou reserve the privilege to ask who will be on your board. Do this. At that point inquire about each board part as well as could be expected. You’ll have the option to make sense of a considerable amount and get ready better for what each may be generally quick to ask you. What does this specific gathering of individuals educate you regarding what the organization is attempting to assess?You can likewise ask to what extent (generally) the meeting should last. This will give you a nice sentiment for what amount to and fro conversation will be conceivable, how much space you’ll be given to pose inquiries, to what extent your answers can be, etc.Step 2: DURING Treat every individual on the board like an individual not simply one more anonymous face. This isn't an indifferent divider asking you inquiries. Every questioner on your board is another chance to make a human association and persuade that a lot more individuals in the organization what an extraordinary fit you would be.Be sure to observe everybody’s name as they are presented. Record every one if that causes you recall. When responding to questions, talk straightforwardly to the person who asked, yet then attempt to widen your answer out to cause the remainder of the board to feel remembered for the discussion.Step 3: AFTERYou’ve took in their names and put forth an attempt to interface with each board part presently thank every single one of them earnestly withâ solid eye to eye connection and a quality handshake. From that point forward, it’s the typical post-meet follow-up methodology. Be that as it may, recall that you have to keep in touch with one card to say thanks for each board part. It appears to be a torment, however it’s these little contacts that will help set you apart.The board talk with: 6 hints for previously, during, and after

Judicial Corruption in Developing Countries

Causes Legal frameworks are the wellspring of Judicial Corruption in underdeveloped nations. It begins from the adjudicators and legal counselors who are at the focal point of the lawful frameworks in Africa. There are various causes related with this type of debasement in Africa.Advertising We will compose a custom research paper test on Judicial Corruption in Developing Countries explicitly for you for just $16.05 $11/page Learn More There is a waiting society of exemption in African initiative that is the essential driver of defilement. This makes it stream down to the grassroots, with the most influenced being the individuals (Homans, 20). Defilement likewise begins from the free and handily deceived lawful frameworks. These legitimate frameworks, made by individuals who need to move their way through huge outrages, expose huge debasement. The other reason is the low wages that the government workers get. These low wages make them need to have more and consequently participate in unlawful methods towards that objective (Mauro, 690). There are likewise institutional escape clauses that structure the premise from which defilement in these nations is spread. Government organizations are the most degenerate. This is a result of the way that the vast majority who require certain documentation are continually visiting them. The framework is to such an extent that it is too convoluted and long creation a few people to settle on alternate ways: defilement and pay off (Buscaglia, 280). The social orders in those nations are with the end goal that they have built up a culture immersed in degenerate manners. To beat the ever dull methods of following the necessary courses, they have made a trap of debasement. It is additionally a general public where there is such a great amount of bumping for space and realism (Shleifer, 600). The genuine meaning of accomplishment is with the material belonging one has. This has filled both debasement and war in underdeveloped nation s. Openings are additionally very constrained in underdeveloped nations. This has built up a distress that is generally spreading all through society making individuals, particularly the adolescent, to be unconventional in their ways (Blunt, 3). Monetary Consequences The normal person’s discernment concerning fairness in the public arena is rapidly disintegrating. This mental bewilderment has influenced numerous individuals who have decided on strange methods slaughtering inventiveness and difficult work (Klitgaard, 20). These two fixings have slaughtered the drivers of economy, for example, work creation, business and very much prepared professionals.Advertising Looking for explore paper on business financial aspects? How about we check whether we can support you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Corruption ahs likewise made social divisions with without a doubt, not very many rich individuals and a lion's share of needy individuals (Becker, 235). This social une venness has kept on plagueing the governments’ capacity to handle significant parts of society like security. This has consecrated financial specialists in certain pieces of the nations which ahs incredibly eased back monetary advancement. The general cycle is that destitution has kept on plagueing underdeveloped nations that just rely upon created nations to try and feed their own kin. Governments have likewise lost such a great amount in income because of debasement which has reduced its ideal advancement in specific fields like framework which has declined monetary advancement (Becker, 13). Suggestions The most significant activity is to take part in long haul culture changes. When that has changed, every individual will know the outcomes of defilement and its belongings and consequently halt from taking part in it (Rose-Ackerman, 34). The imperious government hardware should change to straightforward systems. This will abridge debasement from individuals who need quick ad ministrations and irregular methods. Occupation creation ought to be upgraded and individuals who take part in defilement should confront severe punishments in court to thwart forthcoming guilty parties (Andvig, 4). Works Cited Andvig, Jens Christopher. Debasement in creating nations. Northern diary in political economy, 23(1999): 51-70. Becker, Gary. Law Enforcement, Malfeasance, and Compensation of Employees. Diary of Legal Studies, 3(1980): 1-18. Becker, Gary. Nobel Lecture: The Economic Way of Thinking about Behavior. Diary of Political Economy, 1.108 (2002): 234-67.Advertising We will compose a custom research paper test on Judicial Corruption in Developing Countries explicitly for you for just $16.05 $11/page Learn More Blunt, Elizabeth. Debasement costs Africa billions. 2010. Web. http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/greetings/africa/2265387.stm Buscaglia, Edgardo. Defilement and Judicial Reform in Latin America. Approach Studies Journal, 17.4 (1997): 273-95. Homans, George. Social Behavi or: Its Elementary Forms. New York: Harcourt Brace Jovanovich, 1974. Klitgaard, Robert. Changing in accordance with Reality: Beyond State versus Market in Economic Development. San Francisco: ICS Press, 1991. Mauro, Paolo. Defilement and Growth. Quarterly Journal of Economics, 110(1995): 681-711. Rose-Ackerman, Susan. Debasement: A Study in Political Economy. New York: Academic Press, 1978. Shleifer, Anna. Defilement. Quarterly Journal of Economics, 108(1998):599-617.Advertising Searching for explore paper on business financial matters? How about we check whether we can support you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Find out More This exploration paper on Judicial Corruption in Developing Countries was composed and put together by client Maya D. to help you with your own examinations. You are allowed to utilize it for research and reference purposes so as to compose your own paper; be that as it may, you should refer to it in like manner. You can give your paper here.

Essay Writing Argumentative Essay Samples

Essay Writing Argumentative Essay SamplesArgumentative essay samples are like the good old, tough college students. Writing an argumentative essay is an exercise in which you test your wit, but also keep your classmates amused by making mistakes. So it's really a wonderful experiment in education. Indeed, the difference between the best students and the worst ones is mainly determined by their performance in this writing exercise.First of all, I would say that the 'sevenies' was not the right decade to be arguing your thesis. It seems we're in a crisis of confidence in the students who are supposed to be the next generation of writers. Some of them are so resistant to criticism, they have to have their essays analyzed and categorized.In my opinion, it's the effort to do so without showing a straight argument and presentation that make these students seem so awkward and uninspired. It's a shame because there's a lot of talent out there, but it can't be cultivated in a rigid structure. Here's some argumentative essay samples from the seventh grade. These are from a textbook written by a prolific writer named Jack Germond. The point is to get a student to think and write logically. What's great about the book is that it offers a pretty structured and systematic approach, which most American writing teachers can easily use.The book comes with a logical core concept, and then you're free to explore the options available. The reader is forced to analyze, compare, and contrast various themes and ideas.Argumentative essay samples from the eighth grade has some brilliant examples from a very famous author named Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings. It gives us a great insight on how important vocabulary is. The topics exploredby these passages is the relationship between language and thought, as well as how the subconscious mind functions.As far as I know, reading these passages is an essential part of reading the written word. This should be a useful tool for every student in the c lassroom.

Essay JFKs Assasination and Possible Conspiracy - 1597 Words

Who remembers where they were November 22, 1963? , The fateful day President John F. Kennedy had been assassinated. My mother was only three and she remembers the day. She was in the living room of her childhood home when a crying neighbor called my Grandmother and broke the news. The telephone call was the beginning of a chain reaction that sent the entire house into uncontrollable mayhem. The event had that effect on the entire nation. Men and women, Democrats and Republicans, adults and children mourned the loss of their fallen leader. President Johnson, the Warren Commission, and every fascinated watcher-on in the world would closely scrutinize that day and the following events. The facts of the day are still angrily contested even†¦show more content†¦2). The motorcade consisted of the presidents car, followed by a car designate as the Presidential follow-up which carried secret service members. Behind that was another open roofed car carrying Vice-president Lyndon John son and Texas Governor Connelly and their wives. Following the vice-presidents car was another follow-up car and several cars and buses with dignitaries and press representatives. The motorcade followed its designated route, first passing through a residential area of Dallas, and then making its way through the middle of the downtown area. The parade traveled west on Main Street and then made a right on Houston. The motorcade went one block and then made a left-turn on Elm. On the corner of Elm and Houston was the large, ominous Texas School Book Depository, where the fatal shots were later accused of being fired from. When the Presidents car turned west on Elm and crossed the Depository, three shots were fired at the motorcade. The President was struck by a bullet that entered at the base of his neck, just right of his spine and exited under the lower left portion of the knot in the Presidents tie. A second bullet struck Kennedy in the rear base of his head, causing the fatal wound . Texas Governor Connelly, riding two cars behind the President, was also hit. The bullet hit the Governor on the extreme right side of his back, just below the armpit. The bullet exited below his leftShow MoreRelated JFK ASSASINATION THEORY Essay3447 Words   |  14 PagesJFK ASSASINATION THEORY November 22, 1963, was one of the darkest days in the history of the United States of America. It was a day of complete turmoil. People all over the country dropped everything that they were doing. Children were permitted to go home from school and people huddled around their televisions in shock as they watched the days events. On this day, John F. Kennedy was brutally assassinated in Dallas, Texas. John F. Kennedy was probably the most beloved and popular president

Aids, Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome, A Worldwide...

AIDS, acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, have been a worldwide issue for years. There have been countless controversies about AIDS but not many know the real truth behind this disease. AIDS epidemic have crucially changed American medicine procedures and greatly induced economic and social changes in the United States of America. New medical methods have been brought about since the AIDS epidemic has drastically been spreading. The sterilization of all needles and syringes are being strictly imposed in all hospitals and medical care institutions. Also, blood exams to check for HIV are now mandatory for everyone. â€Å"Since 1985, all donated blood in the United States has been carefully screened for HIV† (AIDS). The reason behind all blood†¦show more content†¦This article â€Å"AIDS† clearly shows how essential those drugs in all different nations throughout the world. The cost of AIDS is taking a toll on the American economy. The cost of AIDS treatment has brought up an immense amount of economic issues throughout many nations. Not only is AIDS a devastating disease to have but it is also a burden on the economy. â€Å"Total U.S. government spending for AIDS research, prevention, treatment, and international programs was $10.8 billion in 2000. In 2010 it was $19.6 billion. In his 2011 federal budget, President Barack Obama called for $20.4 billion for domestic and global AIDS programs. Although AIDS research is costly there is a plethora of programs which can help with the funding. Financing for AIDS relief programs have existed since the 1980’s. â€Å"Funding for national, regional, community- based organizations began in1988† (HIV and AIDS). There are many government programs such as Medicaid, Medicare, and the Ryan White Program which aid with the costs of medication and other needs that are necessary. Not only is there organizations that offer help but donations are also an option. â€Å"Donations from drug compan ies, private corporations, and nonprofit organizations provide for others† (AIDS). Society understands how costly this disease is which is why donations of any kind are very well appreciated. It is debated whether the U.S. should give financial support to those countries who need

Sleep apnia Essay Example For Students

Sleep apnia Essay Sleep ApneaSleep is essential to life; it is one of several components, including food and water, which keep the living alive. However, a significant percentage of the human population has considerable difficulty reaching and maintaining Stage IV within their sleeping patterns, the stage that allows the mind and body to fall into a deep and restorative sleep, otherwise known as REM sleep. At the core of this difficulty is a condition known as obstructive sleep apnea, a serious, potentially life-threatening condition that is far more common than generally understood (Sleep Apnea). Indeed, obstructive sleep apnea can be very dangerous if it is not properly detected and treated. What is Sleep Apnea? Research findings indicate that nearly eighteen million Americans suffer with the dangerous and exhausting effects of sleep apnea, in which certain mechanical and structural problems in the airway cause the interruptions in breathing during sleep (Sleep Apnea). It is important for the student to know that telltale signs of a potential problem include loud snoring, obesity, high blood pressure and a physical blockage of the nose, throat or upper airway. Its prevalence appears to be genetic to some degree; however, its appearance in overweight patients also indicates that its composition is rooted in both genetics and environment. Sleep apnea occurs in two separate modes: central and obstructive, with central sleep apnea being less common between the two. The brain fails to send proper signals to the breathing muscles as a means by which to commence respirations during sleep in central sleep apnea. Obstructive sleep apnea, on the other hand, is significantly more Common, transpiring at the point when air is obstructed from flowing into or out of the nose or mouth, characterized by repetitive episodes of upper airway obstruction that occur during sleep, usually associated with a reduction in blood oxygen saturation (Obstructive Sleep Apnea). It is important for the student to know that an apneic event may take place up to twenty or thirty times per hour sometimes even more followed by a noted episode of snoring. Important to note is the fact that snoring, in and of itself, is not indicative of sleep apnea; rather, it is but one telltale symptom (Sleep Apnea). Sleep apnea may occur during the inherent relaxati on associated with sleep, when the tongue and throat muscles soften and inevitably block the airway. This relaxation goes even further when the soft palate muscles and uvula (fleshy tissue) sag over the airway as well, creating the labored and noisy (Sleep Apnea) so readily associated with the condition. It is important for the student to know that there are times when this blockage causes breathing to stop entirely. Interestingly, those who suffer with sleep apnea do not realize it, inasmuch as another person typically hears the startling noises and suggests that there is a problem. The sufferer may display frequent episodes of falling asleep on the job, giving work associates the clue, as well. People with sleep apnea usually arent even aware they have a problem and may not believe it when told (Sleep Apnea). Inasmuch as sleep apnea is potentially life threatening, it is imperative that the sufferer seeks immediate diagnosis and treatment. Early recognition and treatment of obstru ctive sleep apnea is a critical step not only in getting a more restful nights sleep, but also in avoiding the potential complications of irregular heartbeat, high blood pressure, heart attack and stroke. Sleep apnea is more prevalent in men and young African-Americans; however, it has been diagnosed during all life stages. It is important for the student to know that attaining proper diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnea includes consultation with a primary care physician, pulmonologist, neurologist and/or other specially trained physician in order to obtain a definitive diagnosis and begin appropriate treatment. Although diagnosing obstructive sleep apnea is not a necessarily easy task, inasmuch as there are myriad other reasons for fitful sleep, modern medicine has devised a series of tests performed at sleep centers that are designed to effectively evaluate the extent to which sleep apnea is the cause (Sleep Apnea). Media Violence EssayWORKS CITEDMini Tracheotomy More Tolerable Treatment For Severe Obstructive Sleep Apnea. 19 November 2000http://geocities.com/HotSprings/1837/minitrach.htmlMurray, John B. Childrens dreams. Journal of Genetic Psychology 156, (1995): 303(10). Obstructive Sleep Apnea. 19 November 2000 http://www.asda.org/Sleep Apnea. 19 November 2000 http://www.4woman.org/faq/apnea.htmSuratt PM; et al. Changes in breathing and the pharynx after weight loss in obstructive sleep apnea. Chest 92 (1987): 631-637. Weck, Egon. Why arent you asleep yet? A bedtime story. FDA Consumer 23, October 1989: 12(4). Willi, Steven M.; et al. The effects of a high-protein, low-fat ketogenic diet on adolescents with morbid obesity: body composition, blood chemistries, and sleep abnormalities. Pediatrics 101, (1998): 61.

SM REPORT Essay Example

SM REPORT Essay Furthermore, this permitted ISM to assess the types of opportunities and threats that might arise from the industry environment. This report will also examine both threats of new entries and substitutes, and both bargaining powers of buyers and suppliers that will affect the decision making process of ISM. With the addition of competitive rivalry, this report will demonstrate how ISM can use innovation and various business strategies to stay ahead in the industry. The findings of this report will highlight the financial profitability and stability of ISM. It will analyses how training and development will help improve the skills and motivation of Isms employees. It will also depict how research and development would allow ISM to innovate and improve on its manufacturing processes. This report will also indicate how the positive brand image, along with other business strategies influence the decision making recess of ISM, allowing it to remain competitive and achieve sustainability in its growth within the industry. 2. Background Information ISM International Limited is the global leader in branded healthy lifestyle products. Listed in the Singapore Stock Exchange, ISM has over 30 years of experience and uncompromising dedication in developing innovative and reliable healthy lifestyle products (ISM AAA). Established in 1 980, ISM is a niche marketing company with a focus on the consumer. The Group is innovation-driven and is an Intellectual Property (IP) developer. ISM uses innovative selling approaches and constantly enhances its innovation capabilities to produce successful products with superior designs, features and quality. As an IP developer, ISM controls its brands, designs, technologies and concepts. We will write a custom essay sample on SM REPORT specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now We will write a custom essay sample on SM REPORT specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer We will write a custom essay sample on SM REPORT specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer ISM operates a wide point-of-sales network of more than 1 1 93 outlets in more than 369 cities across 31 countries in Asia, Oceania, Africa, the Middle East, Europe and North America (ISM 2012). The ISM business consists of 4 focuses which together reflect the brands holistic approach to healthy lifestyle. 3. Macro-environment Analysis Macro-environmental analysis is the initial stage in comprehensive strategic planning. The purpose of the analysis involves the study of current and potential change and the assessment of the impact of changes on the organization (Ginger and Duncan 1990). . Optical Singapore government offers loans, grants, tax incentives and Nan-financial assistance to help organizations grow their business. SPRING Singapore provides funding such as the Customer-Centric Initiative to support projects undertaken by organizations in the healthcare sector to improve customer experience and benchmark themselves against industry standards. ISM has achieved significantly la rge amount of government development grant as shown in Figure 1 (refer to Appendix 9. 1). 3. Economics The global macroeconomic conditions have stabilized in recent months against the backdrop of improved financial market conditions, and the outlook for Singapore economy remains positive. According to Singapore Department of Statistics (2013), Singapore has grown by 1. 3 per cent in 201 2 and real GAP growth in 2013 is expected to be 1 to 3 per cent. With the global economy continuing to show affirmative signs of improvements, we hence see potential in the group to rake up more sales going forward, given its huge outwork of outlets. 3. Social As Singapore continues to grow and develop, maintaining the quality of life has become increasingly important. Healthcare products are no longer deemed as a luxury good but a necessity, as society trends towards a more sophisticated and healthy lifestyle. With higher population densities and rising expectations of individuals well-beings, the l ifestyle needs of a more diverse society will be a key challenge as well as an opportunity for ISM. With an increasing ageing population in many societies, ISM can consider how they can better cater to the lifestyle needs of this particular group. 3. Technological The new competitive landscape, driven by the technological revolution is moving towards an increasing focus on innovation, both in technology and new products or services. Being the global leader in healthy lifestyle products, ISM is in the forefront of innovation and the development of a wide range of products to bring the greatest health benefits to consumers. In order to stay competitive, companies are required to use the latest technology in product innovation, continue to develop new technology, actively participate in global markets, and structure themselves to gain advantage in these markets (Hit, Keats and Demark 1998). Furthermore, new technology is allowing firms to customize products to consumers more quickly and economically in terms of production output and cost reduction activities. 3. Relating Key drivers for change with Opportunities and Threats A PASTEL analysis of the macro-environment enables organizations to anticipate opportunities, reveal threats, and carefully develop responses to change (Johnson, Whetting and Schools 201 1). It is important to analyses how the factors in the framework are changing and how they are inter-connected. The technology developments in ISM may affect the social factor such as nonusers lifestyle by introducing more leisure. For a Health and Lifestyle industry, the two most important key drivers for change are social and technological changes. Societal change such as emphasis on overall well- being for longer life expectancy may drive the potential for producing a more comprehensive range of healthy lifestyle products. Similarly, major technological advancements may have a positive impact on Isms research and development (R) activities. An example is ISM massage chairs which are designed in combination with the convenience of the mobile app technology, the ISM divine app (ISM Bibb). On the contrary, a social change in consumers preference for more outdoor leisure activities may pose a threat to Isms future home healthy lifestyle products. Similarly, the global economic conditions may pose a threat to Isms business. The nature of ISM products make them more susceptible to reduced demand in times of economic downturn than other kinds of business as their products may not be considered as essential health products (ISM 2011). . Porters Five-Forces Porters five forces model helps managers recognize and analyses competitive forces within the industry, predict new prospects and challenges and prepare bible strategies against future challenges and threats (Hills and Jones 2008). 4. 1 Threat of new entry In the healthy lifestyle products industry, scale and experience, technology and high capital investment pose as high bar riers of entry. Established industry players enjoy optimal levels of economies of scale whereby there is large-scale production at a lowest cost. This deters new entrants as it would be expensive for them to compete due to higher unit costs. New entrants do not have the relevant experience and technology that existing competitors have that allows them to enjoy cost advantages through efficiency. In addition, regulations such as patent protection and trademarks safeguard the rights of established industry players and prevent new entrants from tapping on their knowledge and resources. The high barriers of entry lead to low threat of entry due to the high level of experience, cost savings and technology that existing large operators possess. Overall, the threat of entrants is relatively low. 4. Threat of Substitutes The presence of many key players in the international market evidently shows a relatively high substitution level in the healthy lifestyle products industry. Global consumer trends have observed that consumers have become more cautious about their spending habits; however, they are still willing to spend on items that are durable and value for money (Remuneration International 2012). This trend recognizes the threat of substitutes that results from the ratio of price to performance. Environmental-wise, there is an increasing demand for products that are more sustainable, environmentally friendly and ethically produced. Lastly, technological innovations have resulted in relatively low cost of transfer to another industry, such as the beauty industry, increasing the level of substitution. Overall level of substitutes to latherer lifestyle products is relatively high. 4. Bargaining power of buyers In this industry, quality, innovation, product diversity and the ratio of price to performance factors play vital roles. Economically, emphasis should be placed on understanding and considering the expectations and experiences of consumers before prices are adjusted, irrespective of the prevailing economic conditions (Analogy and Kari 2003). Technologically, the Internet age has resulted in a group of more informed consumers. Coupled with the wide variety of options in the market the power of buyers is enhanced as they are blew to switch to other brands easily. As buyers hold high bargaining power in the industry, differentiating ones brand through product innovation and development would prevent buyers from switching to other comparative substitutes easily. Overall, the bargaining power of buyers is high. 4. 4 Bargaining power of suppliers Economically, it is more cost effective to stay with the original supplier, especially during periods of high inflation rates. Due to goodwill, the original supplier would give companies longer credit terms, which would in turn increase the liquidity of companies in the business. Technology such as analytic, software tools and telecommunications are part of providing better information to existing industry players at a lower cost, and in product distribution. Besides, employees as suppliers for knowledge in the production process have placed operators in a vulnerable position. The high bargaining power of suppliers creates an unfavorable situation for industry players. ISM recognizes the importance of their employees and tries to reduce the bargaining power of suppliers by providing their employees with good welfare and benefits (ISM 2011 Overall, the power of suppliers in this industry is high. Competitive Rivalry This force identifies the level of competition posed by direct competitors whose target market is similar to the organization. Although political measures strive to reduce the presence of inferior quality and unsubstantiated products in the market, weaker economic conditions gave rise to more conservative spending, resulting in the growth of the bl ack market and stiffer competition within the industry. The extent of competitive rivalry has also increased due to current technological advancements that have quickened the growth rate of research and development in the industry. Even though the extent of competitive rivalry is high, existing operators should continue to innovate and build brand loyalty so as to compete and differentiate themselves in the industry. Otherwise, the extent of competitive rivalry in the healthcare lifestyle products industry is high. 4. Overall Five Forces Impact Using the five forces model to analyses the industry, it is increasingly favorable and attractive for potential and new industry players. 5. Resources and Competences Based on the resource-based view of strategy, the competitive advantage and superior performance of an organization is determined by its distinctive abilities (Heartfelt 1984). Strategic capabilities refer to the capabilities of an organization that contribute to its long-term survival which consists of its resources and competences (Mentors 2004), and when resources are deployed efficiently and effectively, it is said to be the firms core competences (Johnson, Whetting and Schools 2011 5. Financial Resource 2012 201 1 (AS million) Growth (%) Sales 602 554 Profit 87 69 +32 Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year 193,813 73,157 Cash and cash equivalents at end of year 201 ,731 According to ISM (201 3), the Group has achieved its third consecutive year f record profit despite a tough economic environment. Isms ability to manage its cash flow has been reflected in the increased of cash and cash equivalents at end of both 2011 and 2012. For its balance sheet, it was evident that ISM has been improving its cash position and paring down its borrowings consistently, due to its strong positive operating cash flows over the years. They had done well in building a strong balance sheet with a net cash position of SASS million (ISM 2013), and showed superior management in its cash flows. 5. Inhuman Resource Johnson, Whetting and Schools (201 1) propose that the efficiency and effectiveness of the people in an organization depend not just on their existence, but on the relationship and cooperation between customers, partners or suppliers. In an attempt to build relationships across valuable networks, ISM signed a cooperation agreement with LEG Electronics Inc to enlarge its presence and market share in South Korea (ISM 2007). The Group has also gone into several partnerships (Figure 2; refer to Appendix 9. 2) whereby ISM can leverage on their nationwide specialty outlets across numerous states. Brand is always foremost in the company and consumers minds; hence, ISM ensures that everyone gets involved to ensure consistency In customers experience with the brand. It achieves this by implementing continuous improvement to keep the skills of its staff updated (Tem portal 2006). . Intangible Resource Hall (1992) argued that a companys reputation is perceived as one of the most significant resources which make the most important contribution to business success. ISM Asia No. 1 is an independent research conducted by Syncopate an international market research company, to determine Saiss most preferred brand of healthy lifes tyle products. The study found ISM to e a leading international brand with a strong presence in its key markets. The value reflected the brands ability to deliver a compelling and consistent experience that was relevant to its customers. Its superior brand image is clearly shown in Figure 3 (refer to Appendix 9. 3). 5. Vern Strategic Capabilities as a Basis of Competitive Advantage A firm achieves sustainable competitive advantage when the implemented value creating strategy is not similar to the strategies of current or potential competitors, and benefits of this strategy are not easily replicated by competitors (Barney 1991). In order to understand sources of sustainable nominative advantage, the value chain of ISM is considered in the diagnosis of its strategic capabilities. . 4. 1 V- value of Strategic Capabilities Considering the primary activity (marketing and sales), and support activities (technology development and human resource management) of ISM value chain in Figure 4 (refer to Appendix 9. 4), these capabilities provide the exploitation of opportunities and neutralist threats. Technology development, such as Isms in-house team enables the Group to enhance its R competencies to provide greater value-add t o its business and greater input to the design of its products. According to COBS (201 0), ISM has been actively adding its product range by renewing its product line by up to 25% every six month to cater to the changing needs of consumers. In addition, Isms message of We focus on attracting and grooming great talent committed to our companys goals (Temporal 2006) has proven that its human resource is seen as providing potential competitive advantage. It supports the notion of Happy staff, happy customers through providing training and development. In terms of marketing and sales, ISM has an extensive point-of-sales network and geographical coverage in their markets (refer to Appendix 9. Whereby consumers are made aware of their products and are able to purchase it. 5. 4. 2 R-rarity of Strategic Capabilities Rare capabilities are those possessed uniquely by one organization or by a few others. ISM has worldwide technology patents that give it advantage. For example, Isms patented Music-Synchronized Massage technology and patented ISM Human-AD mas sage programmer which are designed together with its massage chairs. Andrea and Cobra (1996) argued that rarity provides competitive advantage if it meets customer needs, and are of value to them. The convenience of the mobile app technology on its massage hairs has significantly eased the control and transformed into an intelligent, multi-sensory enjoyment for consumers. In summary, ISM has a number of strategic capabilities that are valuable and rare. However, it is not difficult for competitors to imitate the tangible resources of ISM as these can be acquired or imitated over time, and the risks of its product and service substitution are relatively high given the increasing demand for sophisticated and healthy lifestyle. ISM needs to develop products that are inimitable and non-substitutable to increase its bases of sustainable competitive advantage. 6. Business Strategy There are three generic types Of business strategies; cost-leadership, differentiation and focus strategies, with cost-focus and differentiation-focus strategies as subsets of focus strategy (Johnson, Whetting and Schools 201 1). The strategies that ISM is implementing are identified to be differentiation-focus strategies, which refer to the focus on the specialization of creating valuable good and services to answer specific needs of consumers in order to achieve price premium. MM, being the pioneer in the healthy lifestyle industry, focuses on bringing the lifestyle of well-being to their customers (MUM 2007). As a result, the numbers of ISM outlets have continuously grown in many shopping malls. ISM maintains strong relationships with shopping mall owners such as Capitalist and Nameplate in order to be invited as a tenant in their newly opened malls (COBS 2010). Their continuous expansion plans have evidently shown their focus on bringing the lifestyle of well-being to consumers through extensive presence in most shopping malls. In addition, in comparison to Isms competitors such as TOT Boatyard and Gawk, Isms focus on their customers well-being is their differentiating factor amongst other healthcare products providers. Isms continuous innovation and growth has exemplified their mission of delivering well-being to their customers. It couples innovation with passion to drive steady growths and continuous product launches in order to promote positivist to their customers and providing them with the ultimate product usage experience (ISM 2007). In contrast, TOT Boatyard (2011) focuses on using innovation to produce products at low cost to reach out to consumers with right pricing strategies and Gawk (2007) concentrates on producing quality products. Isms usage of innovation is more inclined to producing valuable products hat cater to the healthcare needs of consumers. Another source of focus differentiation originates from Isms commitment to RD to develop their products. Nations Matrix serves as a good strategic management approach for improving competitiveness (Taylor 2012). With reference to Figure 5 (refer to Appendix 9. 5), Isms incorporation of technology and product development has led to the creation of new products for existing markets. Continuous launches of new products via RD innovations to existing markets serve as a defensive strategy to retain customers (Koch 2008). 7. Suitability of Isms Business Strategy Strategy evaluation is an appraisal of how well a business performs. As the environment changes, companies need to alter their strategies to adapt to the environment in order to prosper (Miller 1988). An external environmental analysis and internal capability evaluation has been carried out to determine Isms strategic position, and the suitability of each strategic choice is evaluated in terms of the environment and its capabilities (Table 1 and 2; refer to Appendix 9. 6 and 9. 7). It is clear that Isms competitive strategy (differentiation focus), strategy direction (product development), and ethos of pursuing strategies (acquisitions and alliances shown in Figure 6; Appendix 9. 8) work together as a package. ISM is in a favorable position within its industry given its first-mover advantage, and its strategic option of product development has proved to provide a basis of competitive advantage by reducing competitive intensity and development of barriers to new entrants. It has leveraged on its in-house RD team which is considered as one Of its strategic capabilities to deliver differentiation benefits as valued by its consumers. In addition, ISM has adapted to its environment by exploiting n the opportunity that consumers are trending towards a healthy and positive lifestyle.