15 % overstaffed – 830 employees have to be laid off. The situation of Forest AG after the takeover of Wald AG is not a good one. After the acquisition of Wald AG a solution must be found to downsize the number of employees by 15 %. How to do this without destroying someone’s life? And what’s the way out without demotivating the staff? The following report will give answers to this problem.
First, the author will explain the terms replacement chart as well as contingent workers. Following that, he will take a look at two incentives. Then the writer will highlight the facts of the pie chart. And finally, he will suggest a brief downsizing strategy for Forest AG.
In this paragraph two HR terms will be described in more detail. The replacement chart shows all management positions and who is in charge of them. Furthermore, the chart includes information about how long these managers will probably stay in their jobs and who has the knowledge and experience to replace one leaving manager. So, the replacement chart helps optimizing the workforce of an organization and allocating rationally the personnel resources for the future. Another common instrument of HR management is the hiring of contingent workers. Contingent workers have limited working contracts and are employed on something other then full-time basis. Good examples for contingent workers are temporary or leased workers.
A very well known incentive tool is the profit-sharing plan. This is a companywide incentive which is paid in form of a bonus to all employees when company profits exceed a certain level. Profit-sharing plans give the employees the feeling of being a part of the firm and so will be more productive. Another excellent incentive is the cafeteria benefits plan. This plan includes a pool of incentives such as retirement plans or worker’s compensation insurances from which every employee can select some incentives upon a certain level.
The pie chart of the combined staff of Forest AG and Wald AG displays the current age structure. The chart shows that the 26 to 49 age group made up more than 60% of the whole staff. This is because Forest AG and Wald AG are family friendly employers and allow their family-having-employees to coordinate their working time as flexible as they want. Furthermore, the segment of 50 to 59 aged employees contributes 29.8% to the pie chart. The reason for this is that a lot of employees are knowledge workers and very important for the company. Due to this fact they cannot be downsized as easy as other segments. Finally, 6.4% accounts for the 60+ age group and 2.4% for the 18 to 25 age segment. So how downsizing this company without destroying families and motivation among the employees? First of all, we should give the 60+ group a golden handshake. They are ready for retirement and are easy to be laid off. Moreover, we should offer the 26 to 30 aged segment also a severance package but additionally the option to restart as contingent worker. This strategy will be easy to implement because this form of contract gives the employees more flexibility in their work-life-balance.
All in all, the author showed that a smooth way of downsizing the workforce will not negatively influence the company’s reputation. This strategy will also not demotivate the employees or destroying their lives. For the future, it is important that Forest AG finds the right tactic to allocate the incentives fairly among their employees to foster a positive working atmosphere.
Plauder GmbH
“Collusion scandal – Plauder GmbH’s management board is fired!” Headlines like this dominated the media in the last weeks. Plauder GmbH was one of the best telecommunication provider before this scandal got public. But why a mistake like this could happen? In the following report the author will emphasize the importance of social audit and social responsibility in a company.
First, the report will discuss what “social audit” is. Thereafter, it will compare “collusion” and “check kiting”. And finally, the author will give a suggestion for measures Plauder GmbH should implement to improve the ethical behavior of its employees.
What does the term “social audit” mean? According to Ronald Ebert, social audit are systematic analysis of a firm’s success by meeting social/ ethical goals. The use of such an audit should lead to the social responsibility feeling. If a manager acts in the name of the company this action should be ethical for the company and its stakeholders. The stakeholders must be a part of the organization’s judgments and always be integrated in the firm’s belongings to not breach a stakeholder’s rights. Social audit is a long and intensive process to meet certain goals which every company has set in their social responsibility programs like spending money to train unemployed people.
In the last weeks Plauder GmbH got well known due to its collusion scandal. But what does the term collusion mean? And what is the difference to “check kiting”? Generally spoken, collusion is an illegal agreement between two or more companies to commit a wrongful act. This definition sounds very abstract but collusion is better known by the terms of price fixing or price gouging which are two possible forms of such an agreement. So we can see that collision can be unfair pricing. And what does check kiting mean? According to Ronald Ebert, check kiting is the unlawful use of a check in order to illegally borrow funds that do not exist within the account balance. As we can see check kiting and collusion have one fact in common: the unlawfulness. But that’s not all. Two firms can collaborate and practice actively check kiting to take advantage of the float (the time between the negotiation of the check and its clearance at the check-writer’s bank) to draw out these funds. So this is also a form of collusion.
As highlighted in the last paragraphs a lot of ways of unethical acting exist. So the big question is how to improve the ethical behavior of Plauder GmbH’s employees? In the following the author will give some suggestions which could help to implement a new responsibility feeling among the employees. First of all, a written code should be adopted. This ethical code should include the most important rules and regulations after which the employees should act and work. This code should be implemented by the management board to show their employees the importance of this step for the corporate policy. Furthermore, ethics programs such as training programs should be instituted to remind the management of the importance of ethical decision making and to update them on the most current laws and regulations. These mentioned suggestions are just a handful of the great pool of widely possibilities of introducing actions which improve ethical behavior.
All in all, the author likes to emphasize that illegal agreements like collusion and check kiting can bring a big firm in big troubles and a bad reputation. To avoid such mistakes it is important that an organization has a really good code and ethics programs which show its employees the importance of lawful acting and the consequences of not doing so. Plauder GmbH can recover its good reputation by just introducing ethical codes and by following these codes.
report 7 pille ag
Globalization requires a continuous adaptation of the organization’s structure and its products to the relatively fast changing consumer demand. In order to ensure sustainable competitiveness, the pharmaceutical company Pille AG needs to consider the future of the product “Vitamin All”. This pharmaceutical product has been successfully merchandised over the last ten years. According to recently conducted research, however, a decline in profitability of this product is predicted. In response to this circumstance, the report will discuss relevant issues related to Pille AG’s potential situation. The report is structured along the following lines. First, it will provide a short explanation of the two terms “product mix” and “product lines”. Subsequently, it will analyze the concept of two brand types, namely “national brand” and “private brand”. Finally, the author will suggest a brief product strategy for Pille AG. Before addressing practical considerations, the theoretical basis must be taken into account. This includes a proper understanding of the terms product mix and product lines. Whereas the product mix encompasses all goods and services that an organization offers, one related group of products within a product mix is referred to as a product line. Next, national brand and private brand are two types of brand listed in Ebbert&Griffin’s publication. A national brand is related to a brand-name product that is produced by, widely distributed and carrying the name of a manufacturer. A brand name that is developed by a retailer or wholesaler and put on the manufacturer’s product is referred to as a private brand. This leads to the question of how this theoretical information can be applied in the case of Pill AG. The author suggests investing in the development of a new vitamin pill that primarily contains ingredients adjusted to the needs of a particular age-group. For this reason, the Pill AG should first conduct a market segmentation. One option for Pill AG might be to address the people of more than 50 years of age as their immune system tends to be more fragile than those of the younger ones. The likelihood, though, that this age-group is affected by a flu epidemic is relatively high. As a result, this group is more likely to have a significant willingness to invest in the consumption of health-preventative products through which to reinforce their immune system. Admittedly, the solution presented above includes certain risks, like the estimated time to market of pharmaceutical products. According to experts, in general, this time is comparatively long. As speed to market is a crucial factor in context of a successful launch of new products, the Pille AG should strive to introduce its new product ahead of competitors. All in all, therefore, the Pille AG’s situation is challenging but not without its potential. All things considered, though, the segmentation strategy followed by the development of an attractive new product are important steps towards the maintaining of Pille AG’s future competitiveness. Bearbeitet von: Monika84 am: 4/12/08 9:47
Re: FIRST/MARS 2010 Diploma Exam Practice Thread
Globalization affects many parts of our lives. Especially businesses are influenced by this development, as it provides new possibilities to expand goods and services. Through globalization everything becomes more international. However, companies have to be mindful of regulations imposed on them. Starkbaum GmbH is going to export machinery to New Zealand and therefore also has to consider certain trade barriers.
First of all, the report is going to provide a brief definition of globalization. In this context, the author will mention some advantages and disadvantages resulting from globalization. Next, she is going to discuss a few international organizational structures a company can decide between when going abroad. Last but not least, the report will make a suggestion for what international structures Starkbaum GmbH should use in case New Zealand has implemented both quotas and tariffs.
According to Ebert/Griffin globalization is the process by which the world economy is becoming a single independent system. Consequently, it is easier for companies to expand into foreign countries. Furthermore, globalization can lead to a higher standard of living resulting from new technological developments. However, critics argue that globalization allows businesses to exploit workers in less developed countries. In addition, this process enables businesses to bypass regional environmental restrictions more easily by going into other countries.
Nevertheless, if a company wants to expand, it has to think about what international structure it wants to adopt. Generally, a company can decide between five international structures. One possibility is to build a strategic alliance. This alliance refers to an arrangement in which Starkbaum GmbH takes on a foreign partner and establishes a new business in the partner’s country. Through this strategy the company would benefit from the knowledge and expertise of the partner and frequently the partner invests half of the money that is needed. Furthermore, Starkbaum GmbH could give an organization in New Zealand the rights to produce its products there. Another option is to invest into the foreign country directly and establish a manufacturing plant there. Moreover, Starkbaum can establish a branch office in New Zealand.
Now this theoretical knowledge has to be put into proper professional context. As quotas and tariffs represent a disadvantage for imported goods, Starkbaum GmbH should consider ways to bypass these trade barriers. The author would recommend for Starkbaum GmbH to invest into tangible assets in New Zealand directly. This strategy would help the company to avoid paying taxes on imported goods, as the products are produced in New Zealand and don’t have to be imported. However, if the company doesn’t have so many resources to build up a new factory in New Zealand by itself, a strategic alliance might be the most suitable option for Starkbaum GmbH, as the partner also invests half of the capital needed.
In a nutshell, through globalization it is easier for companies to expand into other countries and to compete with other businesses. However, companies have to consider all facts, including trade barriers and other regulations, to be able to implement the most suitable international structure.
Re: FIRST/MARS 2010 Diploma Exam Practice ThreadOriginal
A company's staff is one of its most important resources. Only if the employees are motivated and committed to the organization, is the organization likely to succeed. In contrast to that, if employees are not satisfied with the working conditions and if collective bargaining fails, employees are likely to strike. How can Produkt AG best deal with such measures taken by the employees? The report will consider these issues along the following line.
First of all, the report will give a definition of the term “wildcat strike”. Next, the author will introduce the concept of “contingent workers” and how they can best be used to face strikes. Last but not least, he will give suggestions for how Produkt AG can best deal with its current employee unrest and how he can best avoid it in the future.
To begin with, strikes are measures taken by employees who are not satisfied with their working conditions. If collective bargaining, which is the bargaining process between the union and the managers to create a labor contract, fails, the union is likely to strike. In contrast to a general strike, a wildcat strike is a strike unauthorized by the union and furthermore illegal. This type of strikes occurs during the life of a labor-contract.
As theses wildcat strikes are often very surprising for the company, it is very difficult to master the difficult situation without employees. A very common possibility to overcome this situation, is the employment of so called “strike breakers”. Strike breakers are workers hired as a permanent or temporary replacement for the striking employees. Companies often uses “contingent workers” as strike breakers. A contingent worker is a worker hired on something other than a full-time basis. The strategy of hiring contingent workers as strike breakers is very common, as contingent workers can be used very flexibly.
But how can these very theoretical tools can best be put in practice? The employment of strike breakers is only a good measure for a short period of time. In the long term, it is recommendable for Produkt AG to avoid such employee unrest like strikes. These unrest can best be avoided through providing employee friendly working conditions. Furthermore, it is essential to increase the commitment of Produkt AG’s staff. According to that, very common tools are various types of incentive programs. By implementing such incentive programs both, the employees and the company will benefit. If an employee’s motivation and commitment increases also his or hers job-satisfaction is very likely to increase. This measure leads to a motivated and productive workforce.
In conclusion, a company and its staff have to act as a team, otherwise the company is not very likely to succeed. In order to that, it is very important to avoid employee unrest.
Korrektur
A company's staff is one of its most important resources. Only if the employees are motivated and committed to the organization__ is the organization likely to succeed. In contrast to this, if employees are not satisfied with the working conditions and if collective bargaining fails, employees are likely to strike. How can Produkt AG best deal with such measures if they are taken by the employees? The report will consider these issues along the following line.
First of all, the report will give a definition of the term “wildcat strike”. Next, the author will introduce the concept of “contingent workers” and how they can best be used to face strikes. Last but not least, he will give suggestions for how Produkt AG can best deal with its current employee unrest and how it can best avoid such situations in the future.
To begin with, strikes are measures taken by employees who are not satisfied with their working conditions. If collective bargaining, which is the bargaining process between the union and the managers to create a labor contract, fails, the union is likely to strike. In contrast to a general strike, a wildcat strike is a strike unauthorized by the union and, furthermore, illegal. This type of strikes occurs during the life of a labor-contract.
As theses wildcat strikes are often very unexpected for the company, it is very/quite difficult to master the difficult situation without employees. A very common possibility to overcome this situation___ is the employment of so called “strike breakers”. Strike breakers are workers hired as a permanent or temporary replacement for the striking employees. Companies often uses “contingent workers” as strike breakers. A contingent worker is a worker hired on something other than a full-time basis. The strategy of hiring contingent workers as strike breakers is very common, as contingent workers can be used very flexibly.
But how can these very theoretical tools ___ best be put in practice? The employment of strike breakers is only a good measure for a short period of time. In the long term, it is recommendable for Produkt AG to avoid such employee unrest as strikes. Such unrest can best be avoided by providing employee-friendly working conditions. Furthermore, it is essential to increase the commitment of Produkt AG’s staff. In this context,___ various types of incentive programs are commonly used tools. By implementing such incentive programs both__ the employees and the company will benefit. If an employee’s motivation and commitment increases,___ his or her job-satisfaction is also very likely to increase. This measure leads to a motivated and productive workforce.
In conclusion, a company and its staff have to act as a team, otherwise the company is not very likely to succeed. In order to do so, it is very important to avoid employee unrest.
Gefällt mir gut. Inhaltlich fehlt mir eine etwas präzisere Angabe der Ausgangssituation, ansonsten volle Inhaltspunkte. Stil ist sehr gut und Grammatikfehler halten sich in guten Grenzen.
1) "how Produkt AG can best deal with its current employee unrest and how it can best avoid it in the future.": Du wolltest wahrscheinlich nicht zweimal in einem Satz "it" verwenden. Dennoch muss ein Unternehmen als "it" bezeichnet werden, das zweite it ändern wir auch "such situations".
2) "to avoid such employee unrest like strikes.": immer "such X AS...", nie "like"
3) "According to that," wäre "Dem zufolge" im Sinne von "Laut" (z.B. "Laut dieser Umfrage"). Du willst "in diesem Zusammenhang", d.h. "In this context"
Re: FIRST/MARS 2010 Diploma Exam Practice ThreadOriginal
International trade is becoming increasingly important to most nations and their businesses. The free exchange of goods and services worldwide would be beneficial to all – in theory, but in practice governments often intervene to control their country’s trading activities. The following report will offer useful information through which to successfully enter a foreign market and is structured along the following lines.
First, the author will explain the terms “absolute advantage” and “comparative advantage”. In the following, he will give a short explanation of local content laws and business practice laws. Finally, the author suggests how Werner GmbH could prepare to make sure its products meet the demands of Cambodian local content laws.
No country can produce everything that it needs. As every country can benefit from different natural resources, countries tend to exchange goods and services across borders. The terms “absolute advantage” and “comparative advantage” are significant key words in the context of international trade. An absolute advantage exists when a country can produce something that is cheaper and/or of higher quality than any other country. In contrast, a country has a comparative advantage in goods that it can produce more efficiently than other goods. This can be illustrated by means of an example. If businesses in Italy can produce automobiles more efficiently than notebooks, than Italy has a comparative advantage in automobile manufacturing.
Governments often place artificial barriers against the free movement of goods from one country to another. Local content laws and business practice laws also belong to the category of barriers to international trade. A local content law can be defined as a law requiring that products sold in a particular country be at least partly made there. That means that expanding firms must either invest there directly or take on a domestic partner. A law or regulation that governs business practices in given countries is called business practice law. As these regulations can be challenging, the company should be well informed about the situation in the foreign country.
This leads to the question how Werner GmbH could prepare to successfully enter the foreign market. The situation of Werner GmbH is the following. The core business of the Austrian company is the manufacturing of silverware. Werner GmbH plans to export goods to Cambodia this year. The author would recommend the following steps through which to efficiently plan the market entrance. First, management must consider if there is a demand for its products in Cambodia. Werner GmbH should invest in market research to avoid the risk of insufficient demand. Next, the company should check if there are barriers to international trade or laws that make the market entrance difficult. If the expected demand is satisfactory and there are no obstacles, Werner GmbH should define the offered product mix and the advertising campaign for the new market. Finally, cultural differences should not be ignored.
To conclude, the author would recommend for Werner GmbH to acquire enough information before entering in a foreign market, as insufficient knowledge of potential markets, or economic and political conditions can lead to wrong decisions or even financial loss.
Korrektur
International trade is becoming increasingly important to most nations and their businesses. The free exchange of goods and services worldwide would be beneficial to all – in theory - but in practice, governments often intervene to control their country’s trading activities. The following report will offer useful information through which to successfully enter a foreign market and is structured along the following lines.
First, the author will explain the terms “absolute advantage” and “comparative advantage”. In the following, he will give a short explanation of local content laws and business practice laws. Finally, the author suggests how Werner GmbH could prepare to make sure its products meet the demands of Cambodian local content laws.
No country can produce everything that it needs (on its own/by itself). As every country can benefit from different natural resources, countries tend to exchange goods and services across borders. The terms “absolute advantage” and “comparative advantage” are significant key words in the context of international trade. An absolute advantage exists when a country can produce something that is cheaper and/or of higher quality than any other country. In contrast, a country has a comparative advantage in goods that it can produce more efficiently than other goods. This can be illustrated by means of an example. If businesses in Italy can produce automobiles more efficiently than notebooks, then Italy has a comparative advantage in automobile manufacturing.
Governments often place/erect artificial barriers against the free movement of goods from one country to another. Local content laws and business practice laws also belong to the category of barriers to international trade. A local content law can be defined as a law requiring that products sold in a particular country be at least partly made/produced/manufactured there. That means that expanding firms must either invest there directly or take on a domestic partner. A law or regulation that governs business practices in given countries is called a business practice law. As these regulations can be challenging, the company should be well informed about the situation in the foreign country.
This leads to the question of how Werner GmbH could prepare to successfully enter the foreign market. The situation of Werner GmbH is the following. The core business of the Austrian company is the manufacturing of silverware. Werner GmbH plans to export goods to Cambodia this year. The author would recommend the following steps through which to efficiently plan the market entrance. First, (the) management must consider if there is a demand for its products in Cambodia. Werner GmbH should invest in market research (in order) to avoid the risk of insufficient demand. Next, the company should check if there are barriers to international trade or laws that make the market entrance difficult. If the expected demand is satisfactory and there are no obstacles, Werner GmbH should define the offered product mix and the advertising campaign for the new market. Finally, cultural differences should not be ignored.
To conclude, the author would recommend for Werner GmbH to acquire enough information before entering into a foreign market, as insufficient knowledge of potential markets or economic and political conditions can lead to wrong decisions or even financial loss(es).
Re: FIRST/MARS 2010 Diploma Exam Practice ThreadOriginal
A coherent structure is absolutely necessary to successfully lead an organization. Modern day experts emphasize the importance of establishing a decision-making hierarchy.
This report will present useful concepts and steps that help the management on implementing a clear structure. It will consider these issues in the following order. First, the author will highlight the importance of authority in an organization. When doing so, he takes a closer look at three common forms, namely line authority, staff authority and committee and team authority. In the following, he will focus on the divisional organizational structure. Finally, the author presents a strategy for how to restructure the organization in order to achieve a higher level of efficiency within twelve months.
In order to ensure clear structures, every company must decide who will have authority over whom. It is important to distinguish between line authority, staff authority and committee and team authority. The most common form of authority is line authority. In this structure, authority flows in a direct chain of command from the top of the company to the bottom. In contrast, the form of staff authority is based on special expertise. Companies implementing this form of authority hire specialists, who advise the management in decision-making. Examples for such staff members would be law specialists or human resource managers. It should be stressed that they don’t have the authority to make final decisions. The latest form of authority is committee and team authority. As the name implies, authority is granted to committees or teams that play central roles in the firm’s daily operations.
Generally, an organization can structure itself in various different ways. Nevertheless, the divisional structure is a very common form that is easy to handle. It relies on product departmentalization. That means that the organization is divided according to products or services. For example, Henkel has the divisions “cosmetics” and “cleaning compound”. In theory, each product-based division can be managed as a separate enterprise and can have its own identity.
This leads to the question of how Bundnetz AG could restructure its organization. The situation of the company is the following. The formerly state-owned Austrian telecommunications provider is currently overstaffed. Furthermore there are no identifiable hierarchical structures. The author would recommend for Bundnetz AG to develop an organizational structure in order to achieve a higher level of efficiency. To put this idea into operation, the following points must be considered. First, the management must determine which jobs need to be done and who will perform them. This process is called specialization. The next step, called departmentalization, considers determining how people performing certain tasks can best be grouped together. This is followed by the establishment of a decision-making hierarchy. As mentioned earlier, deciding who will have authority is an essential point. Last but not least, the author suggests for Bundnetz AG to prepare an organization chart through which to clarify the structure.
To conclude, the author would recommend for Bundnetz AG to develop an organizational structure through which to achieve a higher level of efficiency. A clear structure shows the employees where they fit into a firm’s operations and provides the basis for successful business operations.
Korrektur
A coherent structure is absolutely necessary (in order) to successfully lead an organization. Modern day experts emphasize the importance of establishing a decision-making hierarchy.
This report will present useful concepts and steps that help the management in implementing a clear structure.
It will consider these issues in the following order. First, the author will highlight the importance of authority in an organization. When doing so, he takes a closer look at three common forms, namely line authority, staff authority and committee and team authority. In the following, he will focus on the divisional organizational structure. Finally, the author presents a strategy for how to restructure the organization in order to achieve a higher level of efficiency within twelve months.
In order to ensure clear structures, every company must decide who will have authority over whom. It is important to distinguish between line authority, staff authority and committee and team authority. The most common form of authority is line authority. In this structure, authority flows in a direct chain of command from the top of the company to the bottom. In contrast, the form of staff authority is based on special expertise. Companies implementing this form of authority hire specialists, who advise the management in decision-making. Examples for such staff members would be law specialists or human resource managers. It should be stressed that they don’t have the authority to make final decisions. The last form of authority is committee and team authority. As the name implies, authority is granted to committees or teams that play central roles in the firm’s daily operations.
Generally, an organization can structure itself in various different ways. Nevertheless, the divisional structure is a very common form that is easy to handle. It relies on product departmentalization. This means that the organization is divided according to products or services. For example, Henkel has the divisions “cosmetics” and “cleaning compound”. In theory, each product-based division can be managed as a separate enterprise and can have its own identity.
This leads to the question of how Bundnetz AG could restructure its organization. The situation of the company is the following. The formerly state-owned Austrian telecommunications provider is currently overstaffed. Furthermore, there are no identifiable hierarchical structures. The author would recommend for Bundnetz AG to develop an organizational structure in order to achieve a higher level of efficiency. To put this idea into operation, the following points must be considered. First, the management must determine which jobs need to be done and who will perform them. This process is called specialization. The next step, called departmentalization, considers determining how people performing certain tasks can best be grouped together. This is followed by the establishment of a decision-making hierarchy. As mentioned earlier, deciding who will have authority is an essential point. Last but not least, the author suggests for Bundnetz AG to prepare an organization chart through which to clarify the structure.
To conclude, the author would recommend for Bundnetz AG to develop an organizational structure through which to achieve a higher level of efficiency. A clear structure shows the employees where they fit into a firm’s operations and provides the basis for successful business operations.
Ganz ausgezeichnet! Ich glaube, es IST der Ted (oder Robert Pichler).
1) "The latest form of authority is committee and team authority.": Wenn Du damit wirklich "die aktuellste/jüngste/neueste" Form, dann würde "latest" eh stimmen (es gingen dann auch "most recent" bzw. "newest")
2) "have its own identity.":ALLES RICHTIG, KEIN FEHLER, aber guter Anlass für einen Tipp: Ich habe in meinen Gruppen eh einmal gesagt, dass man, wenn man "eine eigene" (z.B. Abteilung) übersetzen will, NIE "an own" verwenden soll. Es sollte immer der Possessive-Bezug ausgedrückt werden (z.B. "my own", "your own", "the company's own"). Hier wurde das ganz richtig gemacht. Für "eine eigene" OHNE Possessive nimmt man "a separate" (z.b. "department").
Re: Exercise 5 – Starkbaum GmbH Original
The world is getting closer. Many firms decide to sell their products in foreign countries, others by products from abroad. Which impact has this development for companies and the foreign country?
This report is going to explain this development called “globalization”. Second the text will compare the advantages and disadvantages of globalization. After that it will discuss at least four international organizational structures. Last but not least the author will give a suggestion for what international organizational structure Starkbaum GmbH should use in case New Zealand.
In order to understand globalization’s significance, it is important to consider how globalization works. More and more firms enter into international business and the world economy is fast becoming an independent system. The impact of globalization does not stop with firms which sells their products abroad. Small firm may also buy products from international firms and sell these products domestically.
This leads to the question why so many firms decide to do so? Two main advantages of globalization for a company is the opportunity to improve its business profitability and the possibility to increase knowledge from the foreign market or partners. On the other hand some firms have to sell abroad to kept up with competitors and have no chance to decide not to do so. The next drawback of globalization is the room to exploit workers in less developed countries.
In the case of globalization there are many pros and cons; but if a company decide to sell its products abroad its important to illustrate which international organizational structures a company can decide. According to Ebert/Griffin one organizational structure is an independent agent. An independent agent agrees to represent the products of the exporter, sell and collect payments and make sure that customers are satisfied. Another form is a licensing agreement. Its an arrangement in which firms choose foreign individuals or organizations to manufacture or market their products. They have a more involvement than an independent agent and exclusive rights. Branch office is the next solution for an organization form and in addition the firm send its own manager to oversee the branch office. The fourth form is a strategic alliance. Its a form of an arrangement in which a company finds a foreign partner. The new business – the alliance – is owned by the partner, who divides its profit.
This leads to the question of how this theoretical concept can be applied in the case of Starkbaum GmbH. Starkbaum GmbH has recently decided to begin exporting its products to New Zealand.
First of all Starkbaum GmbH should search for a suitable partner in New Zealand. An independent agent can help Starkbaum GmbH to test the market of New Zealand. After a period and if profits raise and the demand increase Starkbaum GmbH can search for a partner who agrees to establish an alliance - a strategic alliance.
Summarize the opportunities to earn more money when a company sell their products abroad can be big or small. Before a company decides to sell abroad, it’s important to test the product and its demand in the foreign market. When the result is positive it’s the best way to start with a foreign partner in the international market. So the opportunities of raising profits are higher and the possibility of loosing money is smaller.
Korrektur
The world is growing closer. Many firms have decided/are deciding to sell their products in foreign countries, others buy products from abroad. What impact does this development have for companies and the foreign country?
Firstly, this report is going to explain this development, which is called “globalization”. Second, the text will compare the advantages and disadvantages of globalization. After that, it will discuss at least four international organizational structures. Last but not least, the author will give a suggestion for what international organizational structure Starkbaum GmbH should use in case it wishes to export goods to New Zealand.
In order to understand the significance of globalization, it is important to consider how it works. More and more firms enter into international business and the world economy is fastly/quickly/rapidly becoming an independent system. The impact of globalization does not stop with firms which sell their products abroad. A small firm/(BZW. "small firms") may also buy products from international firms and sell these products domestically.
This leads to the question of why so many firms decide to do so? Two main advantages of globalization for a company are the opportunity to improve its business profitability and the possibility to increase knowledge of the foreign market or partners. Additionally/In addition, some firms have to sell abroad to keep up with competitors and have no alternative. The next drawback of globalization is that it allows companies to exploit workers in less developed countries.
In the case of globalization, there are many pros and cons. However, if a company decides to sell its products abroad, it's important to illustrate which international organizational structures it can decide on. According to Ebert/Griffin, one organizational structure is an independent agent. An independent agent agrees to represent the products of the exporter, sell and collect payments and make sure that customers are satisfied. Another form is a licensing agreement. It's an arrangement in which firms choose foreign individuals or organizations to manufacture or market their products. They have a higher degree of involvement than in the case of an independent agent and exclusive rights. A branch office is the next possible organization form. In this case, the firm sends its own manager to oversee the branch office. The fourth form is a strategic alliance. It's___ an arrangement where a company finds a foreign partner. The new business – the alliance – is owned by the partners, who divide/share its profit.
This leads to the question of how this theoretical concept can be applied in the case of Starkbaum GmbH. Starkbaum GmbH has recently decided to begin exporting its products to New Zealand.
First of all, Starkbaum GmbH should search for a suitable partner in New Zealand. An independent agent can help Starkbaum GmbH to test the market of New Zealand. After a (time) period and if profits rise and the demand increases, Starkbaum GmbH can search for a partner who agrees to establish an alliance - a strategic alliance.
In summary, the opportunities to earn more money when a company sells its products abroad can be big or small. Before a company decides to sell abroad, it’s important to test the product and its demand in the foreign market. If the result is positive, the best strategy for Starkbaum would be to start a strategiy alliance with a foreign partner in the international market. EzCode Parsing Error: color=orange]EzCode Parsing Error: color=orang[/font] The opportunity to generate profitsis higher and the possibility of losing money is lower.
Wir haben bis zur Prüfung noch Arbeit vor uns, aber es ist absolut zu schaffen. Mein Grundvorschlag: Verwende meine korrigierte Version von diesem Text und schreibe noch mindestens fünf weitere Reports. Versuche dabei, soviel von den korrigierten Formulierungen wie nur möglich einzubauen. Dadurch nähern wir uns einer Fixstruktur, auf die Du bauen kannst. Eine große Fehlerquelle liegt bei Dir auch in den Plural/Singularverwechslungen (siehe Punkt 2). Das musst Du bei Deinem Reporttext nachher unbedingt akribisch nachkorrigieren (check bei jedem "its" und "their", ob sie passen und bei jeder Zeitwortendung in der dritten Person, d.h. ob "s" hintan gehört oder nicht). Zudem würde ich empfehlen, meine Liste mit Tipps aus dem Intranet runterzuladen und bei jeder weiteren Reportübung nachträglich mit dieser zu korrigieren. Wenn Du Dich über das Wochenende voll einbringst, kriegen wir das hin.
1) "Which impact has this development for companies": Immer "What impact", nie "which".Und sehr wichtig: Wo immer wir auf Deutsch Formulierungen wie "Welche Auswirkungen hat X auf Y" verwenden, würden wir auf Englisch "does" einbauen, d.h. " What impact does X have on Y?"
2) "with firms which sells their products ": Bei der Überarbeitung des eigenen Textes auf der Prüfung unbedingt immer nachchecken, ob Du Zeitwortendungen bzw. "its/their" eh immer richtig im Zusammenhang mit Singular- und Pluralsubjekten verwendet hast. Das ist bei vielen Studenten eine Riesenfehlerquelle, die unnötig Punkte kostet.
3) "increase knowledge from the foreign market ": Wissen über etwas ist immer "knowledge OF" ("knowledge about" wäre auch manchmal eine Möglichkeitm, aber "of" ist sicherer).
4) "On the other hand some firms have to sell abroad to kept up with competitors and have no chance to decide not to do so.": Die Phrase "on the other hand" verwenden wir dann, wenn etwas mitgeteilt wird, dass im Gegensatz zum Vorigen steht. Hier ist es aber eine Zusatzinfo, d.h. eher "Additionally"
5) "In the case of globalization, there are many pros and cons; but if " Lass diese Dinger ;;;;; vorläufig aus (auf Englisch heißen sie "Semicolons", mir fällt gerade nicht ein, was der deutsche Begriff ist). Dein Englisch kann sich bestimmt noch so verbessern, dass Du sie spitze verwenden kannst. Momentan erscheint mir das Risiko aber zu groß. Du hättest bestimmt einen Satz nicht mit "but" begonnen.
6) "Its an arrangement ": Vorsicht mit Abkürzungen, nicht alle Lektoren mögen das schriftlich. Wenn Du sie verwendest, stelle aber sicher, dass dann der Apostroph dabei ist.
7) "if profits raise": Wenn nur Objekt, dann "rise". "Raise" ist, wenn Subjekt UND Objekt angeführt werden ("the company raises profits").
8)"Summarize": Für die Phrase "Zusammenfassend" nimmt man z.B. "In summary, ..." oder "To summarize, ..." aber nicht "summarize" alleine.
9) "When the result is positive it’s the best way to start with a foreign partner in the international market.": Wo immer Du auf Deutsch "Falls" verwenden würdest/könntest, empfehle ich auf Englisch "If" - funktioniert immer. Meistens geht zwar auch "when", aber eben nicht immer. Das ist einer der Fälle.
10) "it’s the best way to ": Für eine Phrase wie "wäre die beste Strategie" passt "the best strategy for X would be to..."
11) "So the opportunities of raising profits are higher and the possibility of loosing money is smaller.": Mit "so" ist das kein vollständiger Satz ("Damit die Gewinnmöglichkeiten steigen und die Verlustchancen sinken."). Als Tipp: Lasse auf der Prüfung alle Sätze, die mit "so", "while", whereas" und "for example" beginnen aus. Das sind riesige Fehlerquellen.
Re: FIRST/MARS 2010 Diploma Exam Practice ThreadOriginal
Over the past years it has become as common as fashionable to start being active in the field of social responsibility. Seemingly, it has reached a level where making profit is not accepted as their sole reason of existence. Thus, many companies adopted a “being good while looking good”-strategy in order to satisfy their stakeholders: McDonalds runs orphanages, Nike sponsors eating disorder therapies and so on. As for Plauder GmbH, an Austrian telecommunications provider, social responsibility is quite new; but after being the center of a major collusion scandal, it is vital for the company to start their own program. This report is going to illuminate various aspects of Plauder’s current and future status regarding their organizational stakeholders and society.
The author will start by explaining the term and importance of a social audit. By the same token, the concepts of collusions and check kiting will be discussed in order to gain more insight into this complex but nevertheless essential topic. Following these theoretical illustrations, the report will show various methods of improving Plauder GmbH’s reputation.
Social responsibility is a relatively new field when it comes to businesses. Many managers underestimate the impact of social activities in both within and outside a company. In general, the first step is as simple as crucial at the same time: a social audit. Social audits are performed to determine which effects a company has and, more importantly, could have on society. Basing these measurements on a company’s code of conduct and a wide range of its stakeholder’s opinions, a social audit therefore identifies social performance, stakeholders and social goals. It then analyses how the company’s funds and resources can be used for meeting social responsibility goals. Being new in this field, it is absolutely necessary to run a social audit.
Why is social responsibility so big right now? Often, companies suffer from the acts of single employees for a very long time; additionally, in today’s hypermodern and multi-technical world, it becomes quite easy to get involved in collusions. These agreements between two or more parties to break the law can result in various issues: of course, companies can get caught and be sentenced to pay quite a high fine. But more importantly, they can suffer from a major image damage which can be able to ultimately lead to bankruptcy.
Especially in the financial sector, a different issue exists: check kiting. By taking advantage of the check float, money can be withdrawn from a bank account which has not enough funds to cover the check. This is an enormous problem in the US, where checks sometimes need three to four weeks until it is revealed that they are uncovered, and by this time, the money could be anywhere.
As for Plauder, there is quite an assortment of opportunities to choose from to become socially active: For instance, the support of a local school or sports team is very popular. This falls under the category of social investment. By sponsoring a local faculty, it is made sure that the company gives something back to the people who in turn work for the company. Another option could be an economic one: by taking measurements like isolating the building or installing solar-based heating systems, the firm could reduce its carbon footprint. This may be the easiest way to start being socially active: just by turning off the lights at night in and outside the building, the company is not only able to save a lot of costs but it also does something good for everyone else. However, it appears that currently, Public Relations is the most fundamental factor for Plauder: it is downright inefficient to do something good but not talk about it. Therefore, the author would strongly advise Plauder to expand its PR department in order to let stakeholders know what is being done for them.
To conclude, acting socially responsible can be quite simple, if one knows how to start and how to proceed. By planning activities and measurements for the years to come, Plauder is surely going to be successful in restoring its stakeholder’s trust in their company.
Korrektur
Over the past years, it has become both common and fashionable to start being active in the field of social responsibility. Seemingly, society has reached a level where making profit is not accepted as the sole reason for a company's existence anymore. Thus, many companies have adopted a “being good while looking good”-strategy in order to satisfy their stakeholders: McDonalds runs orphanages, Nike sponsors eating disorder therapies and so on.
As for Plauder GmbH, an Austrian telecommunications provider, social responsibility is quite new. However, after being at the center of a major collusion scandal, it is vital for the company to start its own program. This report is going to illuminate various aspects of Plauder’s current and future status regarding its organizational stakeholders and society.
The author will start by explaining the term "social audit" as well as its importance___. By the same token, the concepts of collusions and check kiting will be discussed in order to gain more insight into this complex but nevertheless essential topic. Following these theoretical illustrations, the report will show various methods of improving Plauder GmbH’s reputation.
Social responsibility is a relatively new field when it comes to businesses. Many managers underestimate the impact of social activities ___ both within and outside a company. In general, the first step is as simple as it is crucial___: a social audit. Social audits are performed to determine which effects a company has and, more importantly, could have on a society. Basing these measurements on a company’s code of conduct and a wide range of its stakeholder’s opinions, a social audit therefore identifies social performance, stakeholders and social goals. It then analyses how the company’s funds and resources can be used for meeting social responsibility goals. Being new in this field, it is absolutely necessary to run/conduct/initiate/launch a social audit.
Why is social responsibility so popular/important right now? Often, companies suffer from the acts of single employees for a very long time. Additionally, in today’s hypermodern and multi-technical world, it is quite easy to become involved in collusion. These agreements between two or more parties to break the law can result in various issues: of course, companies can be caught and be sentenced to pay quite a high fine. But more importantly, they can suffer from a major image damage which can ___ ultimately lead to bankruptcy.
Especially in the financial sector, a different issue exists: check kiting. By taking advantage of the check float, money can be withdrawn from a bank account which does not have enough funds to cover the check. This is an enormous problem in the US, where checks sometimes take three to four weeks to clear.Once it is revealed that they are not covered, ___ the money could be anywhere.
As for Plauder, there is quite an assortment of opportunities to choose from in order to become socially active: For instance, the support of a local school or sports team is very popular. This falls under the category of social investment. By sponsoring a local faculty, an organization ensures that it gives something back to the people who in turn work for the company. Another option could be an economic one: by taking measurements like isolating the building or installing solar-based heating systems, the firm could reduce its carbon footprint. This may be the easiest way to start being socially active. Just by turning off the lights at night in and outside the building, the company is not only able to save a lot of costs but it also does something good for everyone else. However, it appears that currently, Public Relations is the most fundamental factor for Plauder: it is downright inefficient to do something good but not talk about it. Therefore, the author would strongly advise for Plauder to expand its PR department in order to let stakeholders know what is being done for them.
To conclude, acting socially responsible can be quite simple if one knows how to start and how to proceed. By planning activities and measurements for the years to come, Plauder is surely going to be successful in restoring its stakeholder’s trust in their company.
Es gab zwar ein paar Grammatikfehler, die erfolgten aber vor allem deshalb, weil Du wirklich elegante und komplexe Phrasen eingebaut hast, die Du noch nicht 100%ig im Griff hast. Übe weiter und es wird bald alles sitzen. Was mir sehr gut gefallen hat, war Dein Intro. Gute Allgemeinaussagen, die alle (bzw. eine selektierte Gruppe von) Unternehmen betreffen und dann grenzt man weiter auf die spezifische Ausgangssituation ein.
1) "it has become as common as fashionable to start being" An-und-für-sich natürlich eine verdammt lässige Formulierung. Allerdings müsste man sie vervollständigen: "it has become as common as IT IS fashionable to start being". Die andere Variante wäre "it has become BOTH common AND fashionable to start being"
2) "As for Plauder GmbH, an Austrian telecommunications provider, social responsibility is quite new; but after being the center of a major collusion scandal, it is vital for the company to start their own program.": Als Vergleich: Hier wurde der Semicolon (im Vergleich zum vorigen Text) richtig verwendet und es geht auch "but". Dennoch passe ich ihn in meiner Lösung auch an, damit man sieht, wie die 'einfachere' Variante funktionieren würde.
3) "The author will start by explaining the term and importance of a social audit. ": Nach "Term" gleich den Terminus anhängen (sonst bedeutet der Satz "Der Autor erklärt die Lebensdauer und Wichtigkeit eines...")
4) Vorsicht mit "get": Verwende im Schriftlichen, wo immer möglich, "become" oder "receive" (nur wenn keines der beiden passt sollte man bei "get" verweilen).
Re: FIRST/MARS 2010 Diploma Exam Practice Thread
Building confidential relationships between a bank and investor’s as well as creating an image of trustworthiness in the mind of the financial community is of increasing significance in the environment of modern business.
The mutual savings bank Marholds Bank has suffered high losses due to international speculative investments and is looking for alternative - and less speculative –services.
This report is structured along the following lines. Firstly, it will discuss the difference between a mutual savings bank and a savings and loans association. Subsequently, the author will explain the terms “trust service” “letter of credit” and “electronic funds transfer (EFT)”. The report concludes with a suggestion of additional services Marhold Bank should offer in order to restore confidence in its services.
In order to develop a recommendation for the plans of Marhold Bank, it is necessary to understand the related theoretical fundament. This includes a proper understanding of the terms mutual savings bank and a savings and loan association. A savings and loan association is accepting deposits and making loans primarily for home mortages. And they are owned by investors. In contrast to this, are depositors considered owners of the mutual savings bank. They provide a safe place for individuals to save and invest those savings in mortages, loans, stocks and other securities.
Next the report will provide readers with a broad theoretical context concerning “trust service” “letter of credit” and “electronic funds transfer (EFT)”. “Trust services” consist of the management by a bank of an estate, investments, or other assets on behalf of an individual in return for a fee. A “letter of credit” is a bank promise, issued for a buyer, to pay a designated firm a certain amount of money if specified conditions are met. “Electronic funds transfer (EFT) is the communication of fund transfer information over wire, cable, or microwave.
Now this theoretical knowledge must be put into the proper professional context. In the following, the report will turn to potential solutions for the problem at hand. In the particular case of this report, the author will illustrate the options open to Marhold Bank to offer less speculative services.
On the one hand, offering savings and loans services would help the bank collecting deposits in order to bulk up new liquidity. Making loans is also favorable, because they are secured by homes. Securities, through which, the bank avoids temptations to any speculation that might lead to further losses. On the other hand, offering trust services would make the bank earn regular fees without embracing any risk. Both alternatives will reduce the exposure of the bank to speculative risk and should restore confidence in its service.
Admittedly, the solutions presented above include certain drawbacks. All things considered, it still appears to be the most suitable course of action.
Who are the real profit earners in a company – employees or managers? Recent developments highlight the importance of employee involvement in corporate decision making. The following report will identify ways to motivate employees after a management restructuring with Pleitegeier AG serving as an example.
First, the term “corporate governance” will be defined. Secondly, the author is going to explain the concept of “employee stock ownership plans”, focusing on the benefits and drawbacks. Finally, a proposition will be made for how Pleitegeier’s new management board can enhance productivity.
When considering the effectiveness of management boards, the term “corporate governance” arises. Corporate governance stands for the roles of shareholders, directors and officers in the management of a company. To expand on that, shareholders are the owners of a company and receive dividends. While directors are responsible for the overall performance of a company, officers run the daily operations.
However, as stated at the beginning, employees are becoming an essential factor in corporate management. As a consequence of this development, employee stock ownership plans were created. These plans allow employees to own a considerable share of a company through trusts issued on their behalf. Naturally, this concept is a boon to employees since they gain a voice in corporate decision making. Furthermore, they profit from a company’s performance improvement through increased dividends. Nevertheless, employee stock ownership plans can pose a threat to a company. This would be the case if employees who own shares leave a company since the link between their performance and increases in profit would disappear. Yet, as owners of the company, they would still be interested in profitability rises due to their interest in dividends.
With these theoretical concepts in mind, suggestions for how to improve Pleitegeier’s productivity can be made. Although productivity can be raised through the application of more efficient technology, the author feels that it is more sustainable for Pleitegeier’s corporate culture to regain employees’ motivation. The introduction of employee stock ownership plans would be an efficient measure to restore employees’ confidence in the management board. It can be assumed that employees would see this step as a sign for a management board that fosters employee involvement in corporate governance. The above-mentioned drawback of employee stock ownership plans can be eliminated through the adoption of a clause in employment contracts committing employees to sell their shares in case of termination. Furthermore, it is recommended to introduce an incentive system that is directly linked to performance to support the employee stock ownership plan program.
To conclude, it can be said that it will be a challenge to restore employees’ confidence. However, it is an indispensable measure to guarantee that Pleitegeier AG will be in the black again soon since human resources are the most valuable competitive advantage.
Question 1 - Austrian silverware manufacturer
International trade is becoming more and more important in today’s business world. In the recent years a lot of companies decided to trade abroad to raise their sales numbers and attracting a new target group. The Austrian silverware manufacturer Werner GmbH plans to export goods to Cambodia but has no experience in international business. The author will illustrate the most significant tools for trading abroad and she will give some suggestions.
First, the report will explain the terms “absolute advantage” and “comparative advantage”. Thereafter, it will show the importance of “local content laws” and “business practice laws”. Finally, the author will suggest Werner GmbH how to meet the demands of Cambodian local content laws.
“Absolute advantage” means that a country can produce a product more efficiently than any other country can. This theory has to be regarded critically because examples of true absolute advantage are rare. Saudi oil or Brazilian coffee beans may be some examples but it the production of these goods absolute cheaper and / or of higher quality as in any other country? And who should verify this fact? Consequently the absolute advantage is not always seen as realistic. On the other hand, we have the “comparative advantage” which exists if a nation can produce some goods better than other goods. For instance American can produce computers better than washing machines. The absolute advantage and the comparative advantage lead to the conclusion that a country cannot be good in producing everything and due to this fact nations import and export products.
Furthermore, the knowledge of the local content laws – laws requiring that the goods sold must be at least partly made in the target country – and the business practice laws – laws containing the local business practices – are essential for setting up a business abroad. To enter a foreign market, Werner GmbH should be well informed about these laws in Cambodia to escape problems with the Cambodian bureaucracy.
However, Werner GmbH should prepare an exact entry strategy. A suggestion could be to cooperate with a local business consultant or lawyer to avoid inconvenience with local content and business practice laws. A foreign consultant could give adequate suggestions and could show possible and impossible steps which might or might not be made. In contrast to this idea, Werner GmbH could also set up a factory in Cambodia to convert their goods directly there or start a joint venture with a local manufacturer which is also a possible step to avoid disaccord with the local content law.
In conclusion, the author likes to emphasize that it is important to develop a detailed strategy before starting international trade or cooperation. Although today exist a lot of international trading agreements of several countries, the local content laws will remain to protect local employees and companies. It would be the best for Werner GmbH to cooperate with a local manufacturer and to contact a Cambodian consultant who could help implementing the Austrian silverware manufacturer in the new market.
Plauder GmbH
A good reputation with stakeholders is essential for a company’s success. A company that does not act responsible towards its environment, groups or individuals may lose their trust and possibly the business. How can a firm act to be seen responsible towards its stakeholders? Does it be possible for a company that was involved in a collusion scandal to reconsider the opinion of their stakeholders?
First the report will discuss the concept of corporate social responsibility. Second, the text will define the four main forms of how a company could approach to social responsibility. Then the author will illustrate two forms of violations a company can come under attack. Last but not least the text will give a suggestion for what measures Plauder GmbH should implement to improve the ethical behaviour of its employees.
In order to understand the significance of corporate social responsibility, it is important to consider the main forms of corporate social responsibility and how a company can deal with this subject. Corporate social responsibility is the approach by which a company meets its requirements in its commitments to groups and individuals in its social environment. First, the proactive stance, it is the highest level of social responsibility, by which a firm actively seeks for opportunities to contribute the well-being of groups and individuals. The second form is the accomodative stance. This stance differ to the proactive stance in that form that if a company is specifically asked to social responsibility it will exceeds legal minimums in its commitments to stakeholders. The next form is the defensive stance, by which a company meets only a minimum legal requirements. The last form and the lowest level of social responsibility, is the obstructionist stance. The company’s approach to social responsibility involves doing as little as possible and may involve attempts to deny or cover up violations.
This leads us to the question what kind of violation could occur. One form is a collusion, it occurs when two or more firms agree to collaborate on such wrongful acts as price gouging. Price gouging is a form of maybe unheralded price increases, implemented by two or more providers at the same time.
This leads us to the question of how this theoretical part can be applied in the case of Plauder GmbH. Plauder GmbH`s managers seems to have a lower level of corporative social responsibility toward its environment. First of all Plauder GmbH should introduce a social responsibility program. Social responsibility must start at the top of the management. In addition a committee of top managers must develop a plan for implementing this social program. One executive must be put in charge of the firm’s agenda. Furthermore the organization should conduct occasional social audit, so a systematic analyses of its success is possible.
However, when Plauder GmbH has implemented a social audit it takes time until first improvements are visible and goals are reached. To improve its reputation with stakeholders, Plauder GmbH should announce the new improvements they have implemented to reform their social responsibly. This would be the first step for updating its reputation with its stakeholders. Additionally it should be after implementing the program the second measure to for Plauder GmbH`s corporate social responsibility program.
Bankhaus Zwettl
Every company has different requirements and different purposes to exist. That is the reason why so many different business forms exist. Every company chooses the business form, which fits best to the company’s requirements. As company’s requirements and objectives can change, the possibility of changing the business form exists. This is exactly what happened in the special case of Bankhaus Zwettl GmbH. As the economy is not stable, Bank Haus Zwettl GmbH decided to change its business form to a public corporation. The report will consider these issues along the following line.
First of all, the author will distinguish between a private and a public corporation. In this context, he will focus on the advantages and disadvantages of both. Subsequently, the author is going to explain the term “corporate governance”. Last but not least, he will give suggestions, for how Bankhaus Zwettel could benefit from becoming a public corporation.
First of all, in contrast to a non corporative business ownership, a corporation is a legally considered entity separate from its owners. That implies, that investors liability is limited. Next, the author will distinguish between the two most important corporations, private corporation and public corporation. In contrast to a private corporation, the stocks of a public corporation are widely held and available for sale in the public. The most significant advantage of that is that a company’s capital is split up into very small investment portions. That implies, that the company can find many, little investors easily which do not have a significant influence on the company’s activities.
Next, the author will focus on corporate governance. The term “corporate governance” refers to the roles of stockholders, the board of directors and other managers in the corporate decision making process. To begin with, stockholders are the investors of a company who buy ownership in the form of stocks. As stockholders are the owners of a company, they have the right to receive dividends. Next, the board of directors is the governing body of a corporation and it is elected by the stockholders. As the board of directors is not responsible for the day to day business, it hires officers for that purpose. The top manager, who is responsible for the overall performance is called CEO.
How can Bankhaus profit by the taken measure of turning into a public corporation? As already mentioned above, one of the most significant advantages is the easiness of raising money. By splitting up the capital into small investment portions , the force of the investors is decentralized. As Bankhaus Zwettl has been increasing steadily, turning into an public corporation is the perfect measure, at the perfect time.
To conclude, as a company’s requirements and purposes can change, it is important to check if the requirements still fit to the business form. Bearbeitet von: Griffin am: 4/11/08 13:20
Bundnetz AG
Recently, many formerly state-owned Austrian companies have been turned into private enterprises. These companies suffer the problem of overstaffing. Additionally, they do not have any hierarchical structures which make it very difficult to conduct businesses. This report will look at these problems, especially at those of the Bundnetz AG.
To begin with, the author will discuss the three classical forms of authority. Afterwards, she intends to describe the term “divisional organizational structure”.
Finally, the author plans to give a solution for Bundnetz AG problems.
In general there exist three classical forms of authority. Line authority refers to an authority which flows up and down the chain of command. In contrast to this authority, a staff authority is based on expertise and usually involves advising and counseling line managers. Staff members do not have the right to make decisions. However, they only have to advise line managers. Common staff members include specialists in areas such as human resource, accounting and law.
Committee and Team authority is the third form the author wants to describe. Team authority refers to the term that the authority is granted to teams which are crucial in daily business operations. Such teams only face a minimum or no supervision during their work.
According to Ebert/Griffin a divisional organizational structure is directly linked to product departmentalization. This means that the organization is split up in to single business units which are responsible for their own business. On the one hand these profit centers compete among themselves within a company. They match each other in earning profits. On the other hand business units often share some resources such as marketing research data.
As these tools above are very theoretical, the author will suggest how to put them into practice. In general Bundnetz AG has to restructure its organization in order to raise efficiency. A solution to Bundnetz´s problem would be to implement a divisional structure. Therefore, the management has to split the company into small units which work like single enterprises. A company which uses a divisional structure demands more staff than a traditional organized company. Due to this fact Bundnetz does not face the problem of redundancies.
In order to raise efficiency Bundnetz has to treat its units as single enterprise which compete against each other.
The author also suggests introducing a rewarding system which rewards the employees of a business unit if they have reached certain business targets. This system will lead to a higher motivation.
Furthermore Bundnetz should draw up an organizational chart which shows who each single job is linked to the whole organization. Therefore every single employee knows where he/she fits into.
Although there are many possible solutions to Bundnetz´s problem, the author suggest implementing the systems which she mentioned above. Nevertheless, it is crucial to the company’s success that this restructuring have the support of every single employee.
Globalization, Starkbaum
Globalization is not a short-term trend. In order to be successful in international business, managers have to be aware of and consider possible trade barriers. Recently, Starkbaum GmbH, an Austrian machinery exporter, has decided to begin exporting its products to New Zealand but is worried about potential trade barriers. The report will provide potential solutions for how to avoid those.
The report is structured along the following lines. First, the author will give a brief definition of the term “globalization” and will compare some of its advantages and disadvantages. Subsequently, the report will analyse four different international organizational structures a company can decide between when going abroad. The report will conclude with a suggestion for what international organisational structures Starkbaum GmbH should use.
Before addressing practical considerations, the theoretical basis must be taken into account. This includes a proper understanding of the term “globalization”.
Globalization refers to the process by which the world economy is becoming a single interdependent system. International trade is becoming increasingly important. Companies can raise their profits by tackling new markets. In addition, international commerce also increases product diversity.
In contrast, globalization can also be harmful for example to a nation’s economy. In some African countries the demand for locally produced milk has been declining significantly as powdered milk exported there by some European countries is being sold at a lower price. This results in increased unemployment and poverty in those African countries. Critics also claim that globalization leads to the loss of cultural heritages.
There are different kinds of organizational structures that a company can decide between when going abroad, including for example independent agents, licensing agreements, branch offices and strategic alliances. Independent agents, referring to a foreign individual or an organization, represent an exporter in a foreign market. If a company sets up an office in a foreign country, this is called a branch office. In a strategic alliance, on the other hand, an organization works together with a foreign partner that contributes approximately half of the resources needed to set up and operate a joint business venture in the partner’s country. In contrast, a licensing arrangement exists when a company gives exclusive rights to a foreign individual or organisation to manufacture or sell its products in another country.
This leads to the question of how this theoretical information can be applied in the case of Starkbaum GmbH. As New Zealand, the target market, has just implemented quotas and tariffs, Starkbaum GmbH has to adjust its strategy. The author suggests building a strategic alliance. By setting up a new joint venture in New Zealand and directly producing in the country, Starkbaum GmbH would not be affected by quotas and tariffs. Of course, finding the right partner would not be easy.
Therefore, the author suggests a 2-step-approach.
Before building a strategic alliance, the company should first cooperate with an independent agent that would represent the exporter in the New Zealand. Admittedly, the business would then be limited and affected by the tariffs and quotas of the country. This may result for example in lower profits. But by cooperating with an independent agent, Starkbaum GmbH could gather valuable insights and information about the foreign market. In addition, its market presence may attract potential partners for a strategic alliance, which should be the goal.
Admittedly, the solution presented above includes some drawbacks. All things considered, though, this it still appears to be the most suitable course of action.
Re: FIRST/MARS 2010 Diploma Exam Practice ThreadOriginal
The world is becoming a single marketplace. What seemed like a utopian vision about thirty years ago is proven reality today: Companies founded in the US can produce their products in China and sell them in Italy. Likewise, corporations from a small country like Croatia are able to make their goods available to customers around the whole world. More and more countries are cross-linked because of their economic activities, thus resulting in an interdependent network of money, goods and services. Starkbaum GmbH, a company that deals in machineries, thought alike. By exporting their products to New Zealand, though, they have picked quite an exotic target market and are now eager to learn about its characteristics. This report will illustrate how to assure success when going international.
To begin with, the definition of the term “globalization” will be given, accompanied by some of its advantages and disadvantages. To make sure that Starkbaum has information about every possibility, different opportunities of international organizational structures will be explained. Under the circumstances that New Zealand has imposed both quotas and tariffs on various products, the report will provide the exporting company with a recommendation of an organizational structure custom-tailored for its needs.
As already indicated above, globalization stands for the interdependent system that today’s world economy is becoming. The term “interdependent” points out that those countries do not only receive, but also give: whereas trade of goods and services between countries has become increasingly easier, global acting companies are more and more confronted with the allegation that they are exploiting countries and their citizens. Moreover, as mentioned in the example with Croatia, goods are available almost everywhere in the world. Therefore, it is quite obvious that along with that also competition among international corporations increases, making it more and more difficult to sell their products.
Nevertheless, globalization appears to be an unstoppable thing, and as a result, various possibilities can be discussed when deciding for an international organizational structure. An independent agent, for example, is an individual or organization that agrees to sell the company’s goods in foreign markets. A licensing agreement is somewhat similar, with the exception that in this case the company receives a licensing fee as it gives another existing company the right to sell its products. Another option would be a strategic alliance, where the exporting company finds a partner that contributes about half of the resources needed for founding and operating a business in a foreign country. Last but not least, a branch office can be established, serving as a foreign office of the company.
As New Zealand has implemented both tariffs and quotas on Starkbaum’s goods, the author would recommend establishing a strategic alliance. Following this plan, Starkbaum can reduce its exporting costs while gaining additional knowledge of the local market from their partner. A branch office would also be quite a profitable option, but given the fact that Starkbaum does not dispose of sufficient funds to found a foreign office, a strategic alliance remains as the best decision.
Admittedly, going international may seem tricky; but if Starkbaum acts along the lines of the report’s suggested points, they will be entering New Zealand fully prepared and ready for business.
Korrektur
The world is becoming a single marketplace. What seemed like a utopian vision about thirty years ago is proven reality today: Companies founded in the US can produce their products in China and sell them in Italy. Likewise, corporations from a small country like Croatia are able to make their goods available to customers around the whole world. More and more countries are cross-linked because of their economic activities, thus resulting in an interdependent network of money, goods and services. Starkbaum GmbH, a company that deals in machineries, thought alike. By exporting its products to New Zealand, though, it has picked quite an exotic target market and is now eager to learn about its characteristics. This report will illustrate how to assure success when going international.
To begin with, the definition of the term “globalization” will be given, accompanied by some of its advantages and disadvantages. To make sure that Starkbaum has information about every possibility, different opportunities of international organizational structures will be explained. Under the circumstances that New Zealand has imposed both quotas and tariffs on various products, the report will provide the exporting company with a recommendation of an organizational structure custom-tailored to its needs.
As already indicated above, globalization stands for the interdependent system that today’s world economy is becoming. The term “interdependent” points out that those countries do not only receive, but also give: whereas trade of goods and services between countries has become increasingly easier, globally active companies are becoming more and more confronted with the allegation that they are exploiting countries and their citizens. Moreover, as mentioned in the example with Croatia, goods are available almost everywhere in the world. Therefore, it is quite obvious that along with increased availability of goods, ___competition among/between international corporations has also increased, making it more and more difficult to sell their products.
Nevertheless, globalization appears to be an unstoppable phenomenon/development/trend, and as a result, various possibilities can be discussed when deciding for an international organizational structure. An independent agent, for example, is an individual or organization that agrees to sell the company’s goods in foreign markets. A licensing agreement is somewhat similar, with the exception that in this case, the company receives a licensing fee as it gives another existing company the right to sell its products. Another option would be a strategic alliance, where the exporting company finds a partner that contributes about half of the resources needed for founding and operating a business in a foreign country. Last but not least, a branch office can be established, serving as a foreign office of the company.
As New Zealand has implemented both tariffs and quotas on Starkbaum’s goods, the author would recommend establishing a strategic alliance. Following this plan, Starkbaum can reduce its exporting costs while gaining additional knowledge of the local market from its partner. A branch office would also be quite a profitable option, but given the fact that Starkbaum does not dispose over/ (possess) sufficient funds to found a foreign office, a strategic alliance remains (as) the best decision.
Admittedly, going international may seem tricky/challenging; but if Starkbaum acts along the lines of the report’s suggested points, it will be entering New Zealand fully prepared and ready for business.
Das ist einer der besten Student-Aufsätze, die ich je gelesen habe. Dieses Niveau an 'Writing Style' bringt definitiv maximale Bonuspunkte (+5). Intro ist ideal gelungen, Inhalt perfekt. Denke nur daran, dass Unternehmen 99% der Zeit im Singular sind.
Re: FIRST/MARS 2010 Diploma Exam Practice ThreadOriginal
Ethical behavior is a major factor of a company’s success. If unethical behavior is uncovered in public, consumers will draw the conclusion from that and change the supplier. This fact results in high losses. As Plauder GmbH was involved in such an unethical behavior, they took the only possible measure to replace the whole management board. But how can Plauder GmbH regain a good reputation in public? The report will consider these issues in the following order.
First of all, the author will explain the term “corporate social responsibility”. Subsequently, the report will provide a comparison of the terms “collusion” and “price gouging”. Last but not least, the author will give a suggestion for measures Plauder GmbH should implement to improve the ethical behavior of its employees.
To begin with, the term “corporate social responsibility” refers to the attempt of a business to balance its commitments to its direct environment. The groups or individuals in this direct environment are also called “organizational stakeholders”. The importance of a social responsible behavior toward its stakeholders is quite high, because companies have a double sided dependence with their stakeholders. In the following, the report will focus on the social responsibility toward its customers.
The purpose of nearly every company is to make high profits. As profits can only be made through customers, a company has to make sure that the customers are satisfied. To satisfy the customers a company has to meet its social responsibility toward them. This conclusion seems easy and logical, nevertheless there are companies, which act contrariwise. One form of such an unethical behavior is known as “collusion”. Collusion is referred to the agreement of two or more companies to commit such wrongful acts as price-fixing. By doing so, the companies break the consumer right of “freedom of choice”. In contrast to collusion, price gouging is not regulated by law. The term “price gouging” refers to the overly steep price increase in response to a demand increase. Price gouging is often used by companies after natural disasters.
In the last part of the report, the author will give some advice for how to regain social responsibility. First of all, social responsibility starts at the very top of the company. That means, if social responsibility is not a big deal for the top management, it is very unlikely that the employees will act social responsible. Furthermore, the establishment of a code of conduct would be recommendable. Managers and employees can benefit from such a written statement.
To conclude, if a company does not meet its social responsibility it is very likely to fail. If social responsibilities toward stakeholders are met, companies will benefit from the synergy effect. Last but not least, the author wants to refer to the proverb “Tit for tat”.
Korrektur
Ethical behavior is a major factor of a company’s success. If unethical behavior is made public, consumers will draw their conclusions and change their supplier. Such a step woul result in high losses. As Plauder GmbH was involved in such __ unethical behavior, it took the only possible measure, namely to replace the whole/entire management board. But how can Plauder GmbH regain its good reputation in public? The report will consider these issues in the following order.
First of all, the author will explain the term “corporate social responsibility”. Subsequently, the report will provide a comparison of the terms “collusion” and “price gouging”. Last but not least, the author will give a suggestion for measures Plauder GmbH should implement to improve the ethical behavior of its employees.
To begin with, the term “corporate social responsibility” refers to the attempt of a business to balance its commitments to its direct environment. The groups or individuals in this direct environment are also called “organizational stakeholders”. The importance of __ socially responsible behavior toward its stakeholders is quite high, because companies have a reciprocal dependence on their stakeholders. In the following, the report will focus on the social responsibility toward their customers.
The purpose of nearly every company is to make/generate high profits. As profits can only be made through/(by selling products to) customers, a company has to make sure that the customers are satisfied. To satisfy the customers, a company has to meet its social responsibility toward them. This conclusion seems easy and logical, nevertheless there are companies, which act contrariwise/contrarily.
One form of such __ unethical behavior is known as “collusion”. Collusion is referred to as the agreement of two or more companies to commit such wrongful acts as price-fixing. By doing so, the companies break the consumer right of “freedom of choice”. In contrast to collusion, price gouging is not regulated by law. The term “price gouging” refers to an overly steep price increase in response to a demand increase. Price gouging is often used by companies after natural disasters.
In the last part of the report, the author will give some advice for how to regain a reputation for good social responsibility. First of all, social responsibility starts at the very top of the company. This means that if social responsibility is not of primary significance/importance for the top management, it is very unlikely that the employees will act socially responsible. Furthermore, the establishment of a code of conduct would be recommendable. Managers and employees can benefit from such a written statement.
To conclude, if a company does not meet its social responsibility it is very likely to fail. If social responsibilities toward stakeholders are met, companies will benefit from the synergy effect. Last but not least, the author wants to refer to the proverb “Tit for tat”.
Inhaltlich bestens und viele der Modifikationen waren eher stilistischer Natur denn aufgrund grammatikalischer Fehler. Passe auf Folgendes auf:
1) "in such an unethical behavior": bei der Phrase "such ... behavior" kommt kein Artikel.
2) "a double sided dependence with their stakeholders.": Der beste Begriff für 'wechselseitige' Situationen ist "reciprocal".
3) "That means, if social...": Das deutsche "Das bedeutet, falls..." gibt es auf Englisch in der abgekürzten Form nicht. Man nimmt am besten "This means that...(if)"
Re: Sample writing question 1 - Werner GmbHOriginal
Globalization and expansion are contemporary phenomenons. More and more firms face the challenge of going global in order to take advantage of new markets and customers or simply to survive in the striving competition. Among these companies is the Austrian silverware manufacturer Werner GmbH, who is currently preparing to export its goods to Cambodia.
Firstly, the report will outline some important terms concerning international trade, namely “absolute advantage” and “comparative advantage”. Secondly, the author intends to focus on some legal restrictions for expanding companies and will give advice of how to overcome them. More specifically, the report will provide a suggestion for Werner GmbH how to meet the demands of Cambodian local content laws.
To begin with, two forms of advantages can be distinguished. Most obviously, a country has an absolute advantage if it can produce one product more efficiently than any other country. An example might be the production of computer chips in the US because the needed Silicon can only be found in great quantities in Silicon Valley. Contrastingly, a comparative advantage arises whenever a country can produce a product more efficiently than another product. Japan’s car manufacturers may function as example here. Although Japan has a variety of other operations as well, it seems most competitively in producing cars because it built up efficient systems.
As no country can produce all of the products it uses itself, it mainly depends on trade with other countries, which the comparative advantage is useful for. International trade, however, may be restricted by legal and political factors. For example, there are local content laws, which enforce companies that products exported to a specific country have to be at least partly made there. In fact, for Werner GmbH this would entail using Cambodian local labor or raw materials for producing its silverware. Moreover, business practice laws require a company’s consideration of how business is done in the targeted country. Therefore the exporting firms have to respect local business hours, securities requirements or wages. Again, Werner GmbH needs to match its own practices with the Cambodian business laws.
To switch from the theoretical to the practical, the next part will consider a detailed strategy for Werner GmbH. As a first step the firm has to decide which level of international commitment it wants to implement. One possibility would be to send an independent agent to Cambodia through which Werner GmbH purchases its products. The next higher involvement would entail agreeing on licensing agreements in such a way that Werner GmbH sets up a franchise or installs a branch office. In case there is a similar business in Cambodia, a strategic alliance would probably be the most vital idea for the Austrian silverware manufacturer. Last but not least, foreign direct investment would involve the highest possible commitment. As Werner GmbH stands at the beginning of its expanding strategy the author would suggest conducting a detailed market research through which the company can assess demand for its products as well as already existing business in Cambodia. According to the results the firm will certainly be able to decide on the appropriate grade of involvement to international trade. As the firm needs to meet the requirements of Cambodian local content laws it would possibly be best advised by setting up a strategic alliance with an existing Cambodian company in order to take local content laws into account but maintain control over its business. If no partner company can be decided on, a licensing agreement will be a possible alternative. However, Werner GmbH will have the best prospects if it cooperates with a Cambodian firm through which it can gain access to local customers and learn local practices.
Admittedly, going global involves a great deal of time and effort and a due consideration of the right strategy. However, the prospects of additional profits and the boon of a strong international position may well outweigh all drawbacks. Therefore if Werner GmbH relies on a well-planned strategy and decides on one of the actions mentioned above, it will hardly fail.
Korrektur
Globalization and expansion are contemporary phenomena. More and more firms face the challenge of going global in order to take advantage of new markets and customers or simply to survive in the striving competition. Among these companies is the Austrian silverware manufacturer Werner GmbH, who is currently preparing to export its goods to Cambodia.
Firstly, the report will outline some important terms concerning international trade, namely “absolute advantage” and “comparative advantage”. Secondly, the author (intends to)/will focus on some legal restrictions for internationally active companies and will give advice on how to overcome them. More specifically, the report will provide a suggestion for how Werner GmbH could meet the demands of Cambodian local content laws.
To begin with, two forms of advantages can be distinguished. Most obviously, a country has an absolute advantage if it can produce one product more efficiently than any other country. An example might be the production of computer chips in the US because the needed/required silicon can only be found in great quantities in Silicon Valley. Contrastingly, a comparative advantage arises whenever a country can produce a/one product more efficiently than another product. Japan’s car manufacturers may function as an example here. Although Japan has a variety of other operations as well, it seems most competitive in producing cars because it built up efficient systems.
As no country can produce all of the products it uses itself, it mainly depends on trade with other countries, which the comparative advantage is useful for. International trade, however, may be restricted by legal and political factors. For example, there are local content laws, which require/force/compel companies to at least partly produce products in the specific country they want to export them to. In fact, for Werner GmbH this would entail using Cambodian local labor or raw materials to produce its silverware. Moreover, business practice laws require a company’s consideration of how business is done in the targeted country. Therefore, the exporting firms have to respect local business hours, securities requirements or wages. Again, Werner GmbH needs to match its own practices with the Cambodian business laws.
To switch from the theoretical to the practical, the next part will consider a detailed strategy for Werner GmbH. As a first step, the firm has to decide which level of international commitment it wants to implement. One possibility would be to send an independent agent to Cambodia through which Werner GmbH would sell its products. The next higher level of involvement would entail agreeing on licensing agreements in such a way that Werner GmbH sets up a franchise or installs a branch office. In case there is a similar business in Cambodia, a strategic alliance would probably be the most recommendable idea for the Austrian silverware manufacturer. Last but not least, foreign direct investment would involve the highest possible commitment.
As Werner GmbH stands at the beginning of its expansion strategy, the author would suggest conducting __ detailed market research through which the company can assess demand for its products as well as already existing business in Cambodia. According to the results, the firm will certainly be able to decide on the appropriate grade of involvement to international trade. As the firm needs to meet the requirements of Cambodian local content laws, it would __ be best advised by setting up a strategic alliance with an existing Cambodian company in order to take local content laws into account but maintain control over its business. If no partner company can be decided on, a licensing agreement would be a possible alternative. However, Werner GmbH will have the best prospects if it cooperates with a Cambodian firm through which it can gain access to local customers and learn local practices.
Admittedly, going global involves a great deal of time and effort and a due consideration of the right strategy. However, the prospects of additional profits and the boon of a strong international position may well outweigh all drawbacks. Therefore, if Werner GmbH relies on a well-planned strategy and decides on one of the actions mentioned above, it will hardly fail.
Sehr gute Arbeit- notenmäßig schwebst Du in diesem Grenzbereich zwischen 2er und 1er. Die Formulierungen/Phrasen/Inhalte sind spitze, es sind aber gerade noch so viele Grammatikfehler, dass es eine Spur knapp wird. Ich drücke ganz fest die Daumen.
1) "most vital idea ": "Vital" ist "lebenswichtig"- das passt in diesem Zusammenhang nicht ganz. "Empfehlenswert" oder ähnliches ("recommendable") wären typischer.
Re: Forest AG - pie chartOriginal
15 % overstaffed – 830 employees have to be laid off. The situation of Forest AG after the takeover of Wald AG is not a good one. After the acquisition of Wald AG a solution must be found to downsize the number of employees by 15 %. How to do this without destroying someone’s life? And what’s the way out without demotivating the staff? The following report will give answers to this problem.
First, the author will explain the terms replacement chart as well as contingent workers. Following that, he will take a look at two incentives. Then the writer will highlight the facts of the pie chart. And finally, he will suggest a brief downsizing strategy for Forest AG.
In this paragraph two HR terms will be described in more detail. The replacement chart shows all management positions and who is in charge of them. Furthermore, the chart includes information about how long these managers will probably stay in their jobs and who has the knowledge and experience to replace one leaving manager. So, the replacement chart helps optimizing the workforce of an organization and allocating rationally the personnel resources for the future. Another common instrument of HR management is the hiring of contingent workers. Contingent workers have limited working contracts and are employed on something other then full-time basis. Good examples for contingent workers are temporary or leased workers.
A very well known incentive tool is the profit-sharing plan. This is a companywide incentive which is paid in form of a bonus to all employees when company profits exceed a certain level. Profit-sharing plans give the employees the feeling of being a part of the firm and so will be more productive. Another excellent incentive is the cafeteria benefits plan. This plan includes a pool of incentives such as retirement plans or worker’s compensation insurances from which every employee can select some incentives upon a certain level.
The pie chart of the combined staff of Forest AG and Wald AG displays the current age structure. The chart shows that the 26 to 49 age group made up more than 60% of the whole staff. This is because Forest AG and Wald AG are family friendly employers and allow their family-having-employees to coordinate their working time as flexible as they want. Furthermore, the segment of 50 to 59 aged employees contributes 29.8% to the pie chart. The reason for this is that a lot of employees are knowledge workers and very important for the company. Due to this fact they cannot be downsized as easy as other segments. Finally, 6.4% accounts for the 60+ age group and 2.4% for the 18 to 25 age segment. So how downsizing this company without destroying families and motivation among the employees? First of all, we should give the 60+ group a golden handshake. They are ready for retirement and are easy to be laid off. Moreover, we should offer the 26 to 30 aged segment also a severance package but additionally the option to restart as contingent worker. This strategy will be easy to implement because this form of contract gives the employees more flexibility in their work-life-balance.
All in all, the author showed that a smooth way of downsizing the workforce will not negatively influence the company’s reputation. This strategy will also not demotivate the employees or destroying their lives. For the future, it is important that Forest AG finds the right tactic to allocate the incentives fairly among their employees to foster a positive working atmosphere.
Korrektur Its group is 15 % overstaffed and 830 employees have to be laid off. The situation of Forest AG after the takeover of Wald AG is not a good one/ (not ideal). After the acquisition of Wald AG, a solution must be found (for how) to downsize the number of employees by 15 %. How can this be done without destroying someone’s life? Is there a strategy that could be executed without demotivating the staff? The following report will give answers to these problems.
First, the author will explain the terms "replacement chart" as well as "contingent workers". Following that, he will take a look at/consider two financial incentives. Thereafter, the writer will analyze the employee age structure of the Forest Group. And finally, he will suggest a brief downsizing strategy for Forest AG.
In this paragraph, two HR terms will be described in more detail. The replacement chart shows all management positions and who currently holds these positions. Furthermore, the chart includes information about how long these managers will probably stay in their jobs and who has the knowledge and experience to replace a departing manager. Therefore, the replacement chart helps to optimizie the workforce of an organization and rationally allocate the personnel resources for the future. Another common instrument of HR management is the hiring of contingent workers. Contingent workers have limited working contracts and are employed on something other then a full-time basis. Good examples for contingent workers are temporary or leased workers.
A very well known incentive tool is the profit-sharing plan. This is a companywide incentive which is paid in form of a bonus to all employees when company profits exceed a certain level. Profit-sharing plans give the employees the feeling of being a part of the firm and so, they will be more productive. Another excellent incentive is the cafeteria benefits plan. This plan includes a pool of incentives such as retirement plans or worker’s compensation insurances from which every employee can select a few.
The pie chart of the combined staff of Forest AG and Wald AG displays the current employee age structure. The chart shows that the 26 to 49 year old age group made up more than 60% of the whole/entire staff. This is because Forest AG and Wald AG are family friendly employers and allow their ___employees with families to coordinate their working time as flexibly as they want. Furthermore, the segment of 50 to 59 year old aged employees contributes 29.8% to the pie chart. The reason for this is that a lot of employees are knowledge workers and very important for the company. Due to this fact, they cannot be downsized as easily as other segments. Finally, 6.4% account for the 60+ age group and 2.4% for the 18 to 25 year old age segment.
How can the company be downsized without destroying families and motivation among the employees? First of all, Forest AG should give/offer the 60+ group a golden handshake. It is ready for retirement and will be easy to lay off. Moreover, the management board should also offer the 26 to 30 year old segment ___ a severance package but additionally the option to restart as contingent workers. This strategy will be easy to implement because this form of contract gives the employees more flexibility in their work-life-balance.
All in all, the author showed that a smooth method of downsizing the workforce will not negatively influence the company’s reputation. This strategy will also not demotivate the employees or destroy their lives. For the future, it is important for Forest AG to find the right tactic through which to allocate the incentives fairly among its employees to foster a positive working atmosphere.
Du musst bei der Prüfung sehr streng mit Dir selber sein. Erlaube Dir nicht, in Slang (Umgangssprache) zu schreiben. Mündlich ist das ok wenn auch nicht grandios, aber schriftlich könnte es Dich genau die entscheidenden Punkte kosten. Weiters solltest Du Dir die "Tips"-Datei der klassischen Fehler aus dem Intranet runterladen. Präge Dir diese Tipps nochmals gut ein und es wird Dir weiterhelfen.
1) "15 % overstaffed – 830 employees have to be laid off.": Bei der Prüfung gleich wieder auf so etwas vergessen. Das ist eine Überschrift aber kein Satz und kostet im Ernstfall d.h. satte zwei Prozent!
2) "How to do this..." Die richtige Phrase ist "How can this be done"
3) " And what’s the way out without demotivating the staff?": Bei der Prüfung keine Sätze mit "And" beginnen. Du musst vorsichtig sein- der Report soll kein lockerer Werbetext sein.
4) "the writer will highlight the facts of the pie chart.": Dein Leser weiss im Intro nicht, was im Pie Chart steht, deshalb musst Du im das kommunizieren. Darüber hinaus: dass eine Info aus einem Chart, Graph oder ähnlichem kommt, ist dem Leser meistens egal. Ich würde d.h. eher auf den Inhalt gehen.
5) "the replacement chart helps optimizing the": Nach "X helps" kommt ein Infinitive.
6) "So how downsizing this company without ": Vorsichtshalber auf der Prüfung keine Sätze mit "So" beginnen.
7) "First of all, we should give the 60+ group a golden handshake.": Du bist ja ein externer Berater, nicht ein Mitarbeiter, d.h. "you", "Forest AG", "the management board" usw. , aber nicht "we".
Per Email an einen Freund
Topic Commands
Anklicken, um Email-Benachrichtigung bei neuen Antworten zu bekommen 
Anklicken, um Email-Benachrichtigung bei neuen Antworten einzustellen