Quantitative Research Critique - 1540 Words

This critique reviewed a quantitative study based upon palliative care and how it met emotional or spiritual needs of the families of patients with serious illnesses. The critique used eight criteria to analyze the quantitative study. The criteria include the identification of the problem, the determination of the purpose of the study, the review of the literature, the selection of the sample size and the research design, methods for collecting the data, the analysis of the data, study findings as well as the utilization of study findings. Quantitative Research Critique Quantitative research is concerned with objectivity, tight controls over the research situation, and the ability to generalized findings (Nieswiadomy, 2008, p.†¦show more content†¦Palliative care can be of great significance to nursing and healthcare as patients and family members who have access to this service report higher satisfaction (Kaiser Health News, 2010). The researchers used a simple and low costing method of contacting patient families by telephone interview. A computerized program was used to analyze data (Gelfman et al., 2008). The Review of the Literature Gelfman et al. reviewed the literature before beginning this quantitative study. The previous study has shown that hospitalized patients with terminal illnesses and their families need care to alleviate physical distress, help making decisions, improvement in relationship between patients and their families, and the reduction of the family caregivers’ burden. Another study found that comparing with people dying at home, people dying in healthcare settings had unmet needs they wanted. The prevalence of terminal illnesses and the family caregivers’ burden have created an enormous demand for expert palliative care. Unfortunately, the scientific knowledge of palliative care is limited. Gelfman et al. (2008) stated that the impact of hospital palliative care programs on surviving family members is not well studies, while the previous studies have explored that the burden in families of patients with terminal illnesses are significant high. Theref ore, Gelfman et al. conducted a quantitative study to examine the impact of a hospital palliative careShow MoreRelatedA Critique Of A Quantitative Research Article1289 Words   |  6 PagesThe following is a critique of a quantitative research article with a qualitative component. Elements of a research article will be discussed, as well as what each component is supposed to include and the essentials to writing a good research article. The critiquing is based on what was learned in class. Introduction The title of a research article should deliver key information that shares the research variables in quantitative studies according to Polit and Beck (2014). This title includes allRead MoreCritique: Quantitative Research and Black Males980 Words   |  4 PagesCritique #1 Goffman, A. (2009). On the run: Wanted men in a Philadelphia Ghetto. American Sociological Association, 74(3), 339-357. After reading the article, it was clear that it was written to give insight on what really happens in black neighborhoods and how daily lives are affected. Goffman’s (2009) purpose is to show that, â€Å"Although recent increases in imprisonment are concentrated in poor Black communities, we know little about how daily life within these neighborhoods is affected† (pRead MoreQuantitative Research Publication Critique. The Perceptions1587 Words   |  7 PagesQuantitative Research Publication Critique The perceptions of being restrained for some intensive care unit (ICU) patients, may not be memorable, but for others, the experience can be traumatic (Clukey, Weyant, Roberts, Henderson, 2014). Historically, patients were primarily restrained as a safety precaution or to prevent inadvertent tube and device removals (Zun, 2005). Hevener, Rickabaugh, and Marsh (2016) conducted a quantitative study centered on reducing the use of restraints by incorporatingRead MoreResearch Critique Part 2 Quantitative Study845 Words   |  4 PagesAnalysis of a Quantitative Study Introduction Research analyzing is a process in which a research undergoes a careful examination for its strength and weakness. Analyzing a research gives the nurse a chance to know the credibility of the study, its findings to see the evidence base for practice or utilization or application of the findings into the care practice. This paper is about analysis of a research conducted in relation to wound care in primary health care. This research took place inRead MoreA Critique Of The Quantitative Research1909 Words   |  8 Pages Quantitative Research Article Critique The purpose of this paper is to provide a critique of the quantitative research study titled â€Å"The relationships among anxiety, anger, and blood pressure in children† (Howell, Rice, Carmon, Hauber, 2007). Research Problem and Purpose Logically placed, the research problem is clearly and concisely stated within the first paragraph of the article. Citing statistical information from the American Heart Association which noted over 50 million AmericansRead MoreQuantitative Research Critique571 Words   |  2 Pagesrelationship between the variables as being previously determined by research literature as â€Å"marginal at best† (Spurlock Hunt, 2008). The stated primary purposes for the research by Spurlock and Hunt (2008) were to examine if HESI Exit Exam scores had the ability to predict NCLEX-RN outcomes, and to explain the inconsistencies between predictions of HESI Exit Exam scores and actual NCLEX-RN results. The article indicates that the research is significant in nursing due to the weight of importance placedRead MoreEssay on Quantitative Research Critique828 Words   |  4 PagesQuantitative Research Critique Cathleen Atkins Grand Canyon University NRS 433V Linda Permoda March 24, 2013 Quantitative Research Critique Title of Article The title of the article being critiqued is â€Å"The impact of workload on hygiene compliance in nursing†, which was published in the British Journal of Nursing (Knoll, Lautenschlaeger, amp; Borneff-Lipp, 2010). Authors There are three authors for this quantitative research study. Martin Knoll is the HTW of Saarland, Clinical NursingRead MoreQuantitative Research Critique Nursing2020 Words   |  9 Pages Quantitative Research Critique Student’s Name Here â€Æ' Title For the research critique I will be taking nursing research paper with title- A quantitative study of the attitude, knowledge and experience of staff nurses on prioritizing comfort measures in care of the dying patient in an acute hospital setting. As per the title, the variables included in it were nurse staff and dying patients (Bachelor of Nursing Studies, 2011). The population was not mentioned particularly in the title but wasRead MoreResearch Critique, Part 2: Critique of Quantitative Research Article1077 Words   |  5 PagesRunning head: RESEARCH CRITIQUE, PART 2: CRITIQUE OF QUANTITATIVE Research Critique, Part 2: Critique of Quantitative Research Article Debra Benton Grand Canyon University Introduction to Nursing Research NRS 433V August 26, 2012 Research Critique, Part 2: Critique of Quantitative Research Article The population who are diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) often experience daytime drowsiness and are at risk for ischemic heart disease, arrhythmias, hypertension, and other vascularRead MoreQuantitative Research Design Critique Template899 Words   |  4 Pages NU310_Unit 5 Quantitative Research Design Critique Template â€Å"Quantitative studies usually focus on concepts that are fairly well developed, about which there is an existing body of evidence, and for which there are reliable methods of measurement† (Polit and Beck, 2012). I chose the Quantitative method of data collection for my research, because I want to determine the effective of regular instruction, face-to-face training, and follow-up on inhalation techniques in increasing treatment adherence

Fast Foods And Healthy Foods - 1995 Words

Fast Foods Verses Healthy Foods Healthy foods are considered in the definition of Segen’s Medical Dictionary (2012) as any food believed to be ‘good for you’. Fast foods are considered in the definition of Merriam-Webster Dictionary (2015), as relating to, or specializing in food that can be prepared and served quickly at a fast–food restaurant that is designed for ready availability, use, or consumption and with little consideration given to quality or significance. Problem Statement The purpose of this research paper is to supply information concerning the functions fast foods and healthy foods has in the environment in relation to our bodies. The function of foods in daily life continues to be a stumbling block to the body performance that often increases stress levels and influences the body’s ability to function properly (Malhi, 2010). The relationship between body image, stress, behavior, and student performance appear to be rare in literature, school handbooks and resources that is readily available leaving a gap in research. The complex nature of the body when there are levels of increased fast foods, creates considerable challenges for the body, (Dellve Wikstrà ¶m, 2009), with individual who have diets high in fast foods being subject to greater health risks (Wolever, et al., 2012). By addressing how fast food influences body functions in relation to healthy cooked foods and the relationship both have to body functions, this res earch project creates anShow MoreRelatedHealthy Fast Food1003 Words   |  5 Pagestelevision or radio and not be hit with advertisements introducing the latest fast food trend Ââ€" fresh and healthy food options. More often, the media bombards us with slogans such as Subway s common pitch to eat fresh or McDonald s million-dollar advertisement campaign to try the new fruit and walnut salad. Attention has made an abrupt turn from the greasy, deep-fried originals at the fast food chains to more health conscious food choices. Even a documentary of a man named Morgan Spurlock made headlinesRead MoreFast Food : Healthy Or Not1772 Words   |  8 PagesJennifer McGuire June 29 2016 Fast Food: Healthy or Not Nowadays, with developing of society, people seem to be not having time to care about meals. There are many kinds of foods for their choices. Fast food becomes a popular choice, and helps them solve their time issues. Eating fast food becomes a favorite habit that most people who are young and teenager really enjoy to taste. McDonald, Popeye, Burger King, and KFC are the most brand names in the world. I like fast food, especially KFC because itRead MoreFast Food Vs Healthy Food Essay1120 Words   |  5 PagesFast food has been an extremely evident food supplier in the past 10 years, so I have decided to investigate further into the fast food world. I am looking into the â€Å"battle† between fast food and healthy food, and why fast food is so cheap compared to healthy food. There’s something about fast food, I have just been so passionate about it, and have always wondered what’s in fast food and why is it so inexpensive. I feel like fast food ingredients and pr ices should be expressed to the public, in whichRead MoreFast Food Restaurants Are Not A Healthy Choice Essay812 Words   |  4 Pages Fast food restaurants are common trend and fashion in people’s life style. Most of the fast food chains such as McDonald’s, KFc are perfect in the business and in the fast food industry. Colorful decorations, icons, and advertising tips give people attraction the business. The new generation of the fast food restaurants are trying to provide healthier choices for customer, but most of people still believe that fast food is unhealthy. Many fast food restaurants are trying to using healthier wayRead MoreEssay about Healthy Fast Food908 Words   |  4 Pagestelevision or radio and not be hit with advertisements introducing the latest fast food trend – fresh and healthy food options. More often, the media bombards us with slogans such as Subway’s common pitch to â€Å"eat fresh† or McDonald’s million-dollar advertisement campaign to try the new fruit and walnut salad. Attention has made an abrupt turn from the greasy, deep-fried originals at the fast food chains to more health conscious food choices. Even a documentary of a man named Morgan Spurlock made headlinesRead MoreEssay on Healthy Fast Food in America1865 Words   |  8 Pagesfor their order. It’s the sad truth about fast food. The market is chock-full with hungry consumers on extremely tight schedules with â€Å"instant gratification† mindsets. One variable, the fast food market never could have predicted was a â€Å"healthy American†. Everything is now sorted into increments of one hundred calories conveniently put into separate packages for the new health-conscious men and women of the twenty first century. In the beginning, fast food markets preyed on a booming new market hungryRead MoreFast Food Vs Healthy Homemade Meals Essay1293 Words   |  6 PagesFast Food vs Healthy Homemade Meals In today’s society, most people plan their daily meals around their busy schedules. Food plays an important role in our lives and most just rely on fast food because it is quicker and easier. However, devouring fast food is one of the worst choices you can make. In order to maintain proper health and prevent numerous illnesses and diseases, consuming healthy homemade meals is definitely a more ideal choice. According to a recent study, â€Å"when people cook mostRead MoreFast Food Vs. Healthy Homemade Meals Essay1321 Words   |  6 PagesFast Food vs. Healthy, Homemade Meals In today’s society, most people plan their daily meals around their busy schedules. Food plays an important role in our lives and most people prefer what is quicker and easier on a day-to-day basis. However, devouring fast food is one of the worst choices you can make. In order to maintain proper health and prevent numerous illnesses and diseases, consuming healthy homemade meals is definitely a more ideal choice. According to a recent study, â€Å"when peopleRead MoreThe Healthy Mediterranean Diet Will Be Under Siege By Fast Food1608 Words   |  7 Pages(Jones). This indicates that the healthy Mediterranean diet will continue to be under siege by fast food which could see the healthiest people in the world become fat and more prone to diet-based diseases. As noted earlier, the problem of health and culture go together not only in Europe, but also in the Asian markets. Various countries in Asia have seen very similar results of what is happening in the Mediterranean. Many Asian nations have been invaded by the fast-food industry and have seen theirRead MoreFast Food Restaurants, Childhood Obesity, and Healthy Eating Habits3327 Words   |  13 Pages Fast Food Restaurants, Childhood Obesity, and Healthy Eating Habits Today, fast food restaurants are often blamed for childhood obesity. This is however a simplistic point of view, there are a number of factors that contribute to the current epidemic of childhood obesity. When all is said and done, the responsibly of teaching children healthy eating habits and encouraging regular exercise to mitigate this problem lies with parents. It is estimated that as many as one in five Americans is obese

The Investment Foreign Country

Question: write an essay on organizations that make the decision of making the investment in the foreign countries. Answer: In the recent years, there are increased organizations that make the decision of making the investment in the foreign countries. But after taking such decision, they soon make the realization that it can be a risky one unless considered carefully. Several factors are to be considered before making the investment in the foreign countries. The primary factor is the nature of the foreign countries that are to be considered. The political, legal and the social factors are different in every other country. Such conditions are to discuss in details (Bjorvatn Soreide 2014). The competitiveness between the countries is considered as a factor that is critical in making the decisions of the multinational organizations to make the investments in the other countries. The decisions regarding the factor of locating the resources are of immense importance. For making the decisions of locating the resources, the understanding of the pattern of direct investment of the foreign countries is to be done carefully. The World Economic Forum gives the definition of the term competitiveness. The term is defined as the collection of policies, institutions and factors that are used for the determination of the productivity level of any country. The forum every year makes the publication of its global competitiveness index. In that index, the forum ranks all the countries in accordance with the twelve factors that are considered as the key components of modern competition (Budde-Sung 2013). The factors that are consideration makes the inclusion of the framework of the institution in which the selection of the business is done, the infrastructure level, health, education and economic stability. It also makes the inclusion of the training, size, sophistication and efficiency of the markets, business development state and the innovation ability. The factors of infrastructure, institution, heath of public and the education in the primary sense are regarded as the primary requirements for the economies that are factor-driven. The economies that are driven by efficiency have lead to the development of greater markets that are sophisticated. Such markets are advanced technologically and involve higher education and training of the standards of international business. The greatest competitive economy is that economy that is driven by innovation and such economy have also made the development of the forms of sophisticated service (Cosmin et al. 2014). In these economies, the role of government is of immense importance. It is because the government is regarded as the basic drivers of development and success of the international business. The Government also is the primary drivers of the competitiveness of any country. In every country, there has been a vast political change in the last twenty years. Such change is significant in China. China made the identification of the need to build a relationship between the political ideas of the country and the requirement of the country to find the investors for the projects of the country. The nationalization that took place in the Gas Industry of Bolivia serves as the strong example of the way a political decision changes the rules of business in the country (Rugman Collinson 2012). Reference List Bjorvatn, K. Soreide, T. (2014) Corruption and competition for resources,International Tax and Public Finance,21 (6), pp.997-1011. Budde-Sung, A.(2013) The invisible meets the intangible: cultures impact on intellectual property protection,Journal of Business Ethics, 117 (2), pp.345-359. Cosmin, T., Nitu, C.V. Nitu, O. (2014) Economic barriers and competitive environment some considerations,Economics, Management and Financial Markets,9 (1), pp.311-317. Rugman, A. Collinson, S. (2012)International business[Online]. New York: Pearson. (Accessed 12 January 2015).

The Matrix Essay Research Paper The first free essay sample

The Matrix Essay, Research Paper The first cardinal component in an OOUI is, does a Product consist of a aggregation of collaborating objects is and positions of objects. In the film the two things that show this is the Matrix and the Constuct, because both of these topographic points show you a universe like simulator with objects being edifices, autos, and Kung Fu Dojos. The 2nd component in an OOUI is, Icons stand foring objects that may be straight manipulated. The films shows this when both the small male child and Neo bend spoons, and besides when Neo grabs the rope and pull Trinity up. The thirs component in an OOUI is, Users opening objects into positions on the desktop. In the film this is done when Neo is contending Morpheus in the Dojo and besides when they are in the jumping simulator. The following component in an OOUI is, that Folders and Notebooks are ocular containers. We will write a custom essay sample on The Matrix Essay Research Paper The first or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page The people inside the Matrix are slightly a notebook and each edifice is a booklet. The 5th component in an OOUI is, Supplying users with the supplies needed to execute a undertaking. The film gives an illustration of this when Neo is provided the accomplishments such as Kung Fu, and besides provides Neo and Trinity with tonss of guns. The 6th component of an OOUI is, Focus on inputs and end products for objects and undertakings. The film shows this when Neo is taken out of the Matrix and when the crew loads into the Matrix. The following component affecting an OOUI is, Releted undertakings being supported by the usage of other objects. The films gives illustrations of this when the crew uses the phone to get out of the Matix and when Siffer is eating a meal that s is not even there and is convinced to help out the agents and turn Morpheus in. The eighth item of an OOUI is, Flexible structure by an object. The movie shows this when Neo punch is fast and dodges the bullets and also when an angent goes into anybody they want. The ninth element of an OOUI is, Users should not get trapped in a single task. The movie does this when Morpheus finds and brings Neo out of the Matrix, and when Trinity and Neo rescue Morpheus. The tenth element in an OOUI is, Users should focus on common paradigms, like look and feel. The movie gives examples of this with the training programs, jumping simulator, and when Morpheus first shows Neo how the real world looks like. The next element in an OOUI is, Users may perform task in their own way or innovate. The movie shows this when in the jumping simulator the ground is a jelloey trampoline, and when Neo and trinity go into the Matrix with all the weapons and try to save Morpheus. The final element of an OOUI is, the more reuse of the same object in many tasks. The movie shows this with the reuse of the cellular phones in each mission, and the reuse of all the guns. The last question is Who really is the User of the Matrix. I believe that Neo, Trinity, Morpheus, and the rest of the resistance are the users, the agents are also users, and since nobody can do what these people do that makes them the only users of the Matrix. That s how the Matrix is related to an OOUI.

Kentucky Fried Chicken

Introduction Background information Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC) is a fast food firm which was established in 1952 by Cornel Harland Sanders. The firm has its headquarters in Kentucky. Over the years it has been in operation, KFC has been very successful. One of the factors contributing to its success is its effectiveness in implementing expansion strategies.Advertising We will write a custom report sample on Kentucky Fried Chicken specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More For example, apart from conducting domestic investments, it has also ventured into the international market through incorporation of internationalization strategy. In addition, the firm has integrated the concept of franchising. As a result, KFC has established a chain of 16,200 outlets in 100 countries in which it operates (Hoovers Incorporation para. 1). Of these franchises, 5,100 are located in the United States. This has enhanced its ability to achieve its profit max imization objective. Its success is also associated with the management team’s effectiveness in implementing good organizational values which directs all the firm’s operations. For example, the management team respects and rewards all the contributions by its employees. In its operation, KFC ensures that it offers its customers high quality products. This is evident in its philosophy statement which is represented in its CHAMPS program. CHAMP is an acronym for the values held by the firm which include Cleanliness, Hospitality, Accuracy, and Maintenance of facilities, Product quality and Speed in service delivery. The program has enabled the management team to integrate the concept of customer focus amongst the employees. Aim This report illustrates an internal analysis of KFC by considering the business and corporate level strategies. KFC’s SWOT Analysis The table below illustrates the firm’s strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats. Strengths The firm has developed strong brand equity as a result of offering quality products and services to the consumer. The firm has attained economies of scale in its operation. Expansion in the foreign market has enhanced cash flow hence its financial stability. Establishment of a strong and efficient interactive marketing has enabled the firm to develop customer loyalty. Its product diversification strategy has enabled the firm to be ranked as a convenient firm. Weaknesses The firm has not installed point of scale scanning system. KFC’s research and development team is not well instituted. The management team does not have employee relationship building program. KFC only focuses at high income earners Opportunities -Change in age demographics as a result of increase in individuals aged between 18-34 years. This presents a potential increment in its market. -General economic growth resulting into a rise in consumers’ disposable income. -By incorporating customer fo cus, there is a high probability of the firm increasing its customer base. -The firm can diversify its operation by targeting emerging markets such as in Asian countries. -The firm can improve its public image by updating its restaurants. Threats -Increased competition from large firms such as McDonalds and also new entrants. S The firm also faces a threat from supermarkets which are increasingly dealing with fast food products. – The fast food industry is characterized by a high rate of employee turnover. -Fluctuation in exchange rate as a result of changes in business environment may affect remission of profit by the firm’s subsidiary firms located in the international market. -Changes in consumer tastes and preferences may affect demand for the firm’s products. This is due to the fact that consumers are increasingly becoming health conscious. – Core competence Hitt, Ireland and Hoskisson (81) define core competence as the ability of a firm to attain a high competitive advantage compared to its rivals. Since its establishment, KFC has laid more emphasis on provision of diverse fried chicken products. This has enabled the firm to effectively position itself in the market.Advertising Looking for report on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Some of the factors which have contributed towards the firm’s efficiency include its competence in delivering unique experience, offering the right chicken and ease of access of its products in the market. The resultant effect is that KFC has been widely recognized as the ‘chicken expert’. KFC Corporate Level strategy In its operation, KFC has incorporated different concentration strategies. Kazmi (150) further defines concentration strategy to include how a firm specializes in certain products or services. Kazim further asserts that firms which are successful in different industries are those that ha ve incorporated the concept of specialization. Concentration strategies mainly involve investing in a certain product line. KFC has integrated different concentration strategies. These include market penetration, market development and product development. Product development strategy This strategy involves a firm innovating new products and marketing them in the same market with the other products (Kazim 150). By introducing new products, a firm is able to attract more customers. In line with this, KFC intends to reintroduce the Rotisserie chicken. As a result, the firm will attract new customers. Market development This is where a firm introduces and sells its products to a new market. This means that the firm expands its geographical coverage. Alternatively, market development may also involve a firm offering the same products to a new market but at a different price (Slack Parent 112). KFC has integrated this strategy by introducing its present products to new markets. In addit ion, the firm also develops its market by targeting new categories of customers. Business strategy Franchising According to Burgess (119), franchising has been widely accepted as one of the most effective ways through which small and medium enterprises can grow. In addition, franchising model can be used to restructure a firm’s operations so as to be successful. According to Floyd (para. 3), increased incorporation of franchising in the fast food industry has arisen from the increment in competition. Over the years, KFC’s growth has resulted from incorporation of the concept of franchising. Through franchising, KFC has been able to penetrate into the international market.Advertising We will write a custom report sample on Kentucky Fried Chicken specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More According to Wit and Meyer (916), KFC was amongst the first fast food firms to venture into the international market during 1950s through fra nchising. n 2007, the firm refocused its internationalization strategy through franchising by considering markets in China, South Africa, South Korea, Malaysia, Great Britain, Mexico, Phillipines, Indonesia and Japan ( Witt Meyer 916). Through franchising, the firm has been able to expand its operations rapidly in small countries which only have a capacity of supporting few restaurants. Product differentiation According to Ireland, Hoskisson and Hitt (99), focused differentiation strategy can enable a firm to attain a high competitive advantage. Focused differentiation entails a firm’s effort to produce products and services which its target customers consider being unique (Ireland, Hoskisson Hitt 99). Additionally, it is vital for a firm to incorporate all the primary and support activities in its value chain so as to be effective in its differentiation strategy. According to Smith (61); the fast food industry is characterized by a high degree of rivalry. This arises from the large number of players in the industry. The large number of competitors has made switching cost to be low. As a result, firms in this industry are required to be very efficient in developing their competitive advantage. One of the core sources of competitive advantage for these firms is their ability to provide unique and quality service. This is due to the fact that customers associate their satisfaction with the value and the experience attained (Vequist et al 34). In an effort to cope with industry rivalry, the large firms such as KFC, Hardees and McDonalds try to differentiate their products so as to attain a high competitive edge. Over the years it has been in operation, KFC has managed to develop a competitive advantage with in offering its food products. Its products are unique which makes it difficult for competitors to imitate. The firm primarily deals with chicken pieces, sandwiches, salads and wraps (Crest 1). However, its core focus is fried chicken. The firm offers a wide range of chicken products. In order to be successful in the international market, the firm customizes its products to the local market. As a result, KFC is able to meet the local customers’ tastes and preferences. However, the eleven herbs and spices which make its products unique remain universal. Its effectiveness in maintenance of unique and diverse fast food products has contributed towards the firm developing customer loyalty.Advertising Looking for report on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More To be effective, KFC has incorporated the ‘Food, Fun and Festivity’ concept. This enables the firm to offer diverse food products with chicken being the main meal. KFC’s value chain analysis According to Sekhar (115), value chain entails a number of activities undertaken by a firm in an effort to ensure that it delivers high quality products and services. This means that the probability of the firm attaining its profit objective is increased. In an effort to achieve this, KFC has integrated a comprehensive value chain which is composed of both primary and support activities as discussed below. Inbound activities The firm procures high quality materials from local firms. The procurement process is relatively simple. To ensure efficiency in its operation, KFC has incorporated an effective inventory control mechanism in all its outlets around the world. This has been achieved through implementation of an efficient information communication technology. Examples of te chnologies integrated in its inventory system include the VPN and ADSL. Through these technologies, it has been possible for the firm to manage raw material usage. In addition, inventory control ensures timely replenishment of the stock (FRSVISION para. 1-3). Operations These entail activities which are aimed at transforming inputs into final goods and services (Sekhar 116). To ensure that its products and services contribute to a high level of customer satisfaction, KFC has instituted a research and development department. The objective of RD is to enable the firm meet the customers’ requirement by understanding the existing market demand. Additionally, the firm collaborates with its suppliers in an effort to offer high quality products and services to its customers by ensuring that suppliers supply high quality raw materials. Outbound logistics These include activities aimed at ensuring efficient distribution of the finished products (Sehkar 116). KFC’s management te am has appreciated the role of Information Communication Technology (ICT) in enhancing product distribution. As a result, the firm implemented the concept of e-commerce in 2007 (The Franchise Mall para. 1). This has enabled customers to undertake online ordering. To ensure that customers achieve a high value, the management team has also integrated a free delivery service. Marketing and sales These entail the various tasks aimed at satisfying the customer and also generating sales. To achieve this, the firm has incorporated continuous product improvement. KFC has been effective in marketing and sales as a result of diversifying its menu. In order to generate sales, the firm promotes its products through various mediums such as the internet. For example, the marketing of KFC Popcorn Chicken was rolled out through MSN across the United States. Since its target for this new product was the at-work audience, the campaign was rolled out during lunch hours (Plummer 23). The firm’s marketing and sales activities are also enhanced through issuing free samples such as during an individual’s birthday party. Services These are the after-sale services offered to the customer after closing a sale (Sehkar 117). To ensure delivery of high value, the firm has instituted interactive communication with the customers. After consuming its products, the consumers can be able to raise their opinion regarding the service offered. This enables the firm to make adjustments to its products based on the information received. Support services The success of KFC also arises from its experienced human capital. The firm has a human resource base of 445,000 employees. The firm has a quality assurance department which ensures procurement of high quality raw materials. This has played a significant role in ensuring food safety (KFC para. 1). To enhance its procurement process, the firm has sought the services of experts. Financial Analysis Profitability ratios Return on assets (R OA) This ratio is used to evaluate a firm’s ability in utilizing its assets to gain profits. This is achieved by comparing the firm’s profits with the assets used to generate the profit. If a firm has a relatively high ROA, it means that there is effective and efficient utilization of assets. In addition, ROA depicts a firm stability. During the 2010 financial year, KFC had a ROA of 3.97% (Bloomberg Business 1). This illustrates a relatively low ROA which means that the firm is not utilizing its assets to the maximum. Return on Equity This ratio is a measure of the shareholders equity in comparison to a firms’ net income. The ratio illustrates how effective a firm has been in reinvesting its earning so as to generate more earnings. KFC had a ROE of 11.29% during its 2010 financial year. This illustrates that the firm has been effective in reinvesting its earnings (Bloomberg Business 1). Return on capital (ROCA) ROCA shows how a firm has utilized its borrowed cap ital either equity or debt capital to generate profit. KFC had a ROCA of 7.68%. This illustrates that KFC has been effective in utilizing its capital (Bloomberg Business 1). Asset Turnover Ratios Total Asset Turnover Bloomberg Business defines this ratio as a measure of a firm’s efficiency in generating sales using its assets. During its 2010 financial year, KFC had a TOA of 1.1 times. This means that the assets were used to generate sales 1.1 times (Bloomberg Business 1). Accounts Receivables Turnover The ratio shows the average duration taken by a firm’s clients to pay their invoices. A firm with a low account turnover indicates that its clients are very efficient in settling their bills which means that the firm becomes financially stable. KFC had an account receivable turnover of 2.9 times which is relatively low indicating a high financial stability (Bloomberg Business 1). Fixed Assets Turn over The ratio compares a firm’s sales to its fixed asset. As a res ult, one is able to determine how a firm is utilizing its fixed assets. Alternatively, it may indicate that a firm has a lot of money tied in its fixed assets. A fixed asset turnover ratio of 4.9 times indicates KFC’s efficiency in utilizing its fixed assets (Bloomberg Business 1). Conclusion From the analysis, it is evident that KFC’s success has resulted from a number of sources. The firm’s internal analysis indicates that the firm has developed a number of strengths. For example, KFC has incorporated the concept of customer focus which has enhanced its commitment towards ensuring that the customers attain a high level of satisfaction. This is illustrated by the firm’s emphasis on value addition. In addition, KFC deals with a wide range of fast food products which has enabled it to address the differences in consumer tastes and preferences. The firm has also developed a core competence with regard to fried chickens. Its unique quality of fried chicken p roducts has enabled the firm to develop a high competitive advantage. In addition, the firm has a strong management team which is very effective in decision making and implementation. As a result, the firm has been effective in implementing business and corporate level strategies. Some of the business level strategy which the firm has integrated relate to product differentiation and franchising. These strategies have enhanced the firm’s competitiveness considering the fact that the industry is characterized by a high degree of rivalry. For example, the secret recipe has enabled the firm to be effective in differentiating its products hence attaining a strong market position. On the other hand; franchising has enabled KFC to expand its operations both in the domestic and the foreign market. Implementation of corporate level strategies which include product and market development has enhanced the firm’s ability to expand its market share. Both the business and corporate level strategies has contributed towards the firm’s financial stability as illustrated by the above financial ratios. Recommendations Considering the high degree of industry rivalry, it is paramount for the firm’s management team to consider the following. Diversifying its products and service offering so as to attract a large number of customers. One of the ways through which this can be achieved is by conducting a consumer market research prior to venturing into a new market. This way it will be possible for the firm to understand the customers’ product and service requirements. The firm should consider other expansion strategies such as entering into merger with potential partners. However, it is vital for the management to undertake a cultural analysis prior to entering the merger to prevent failure. Works Cited Bloomberg Business. KFC Limited. 4 Jan. 2011. 2 April 2011. Web. Burgess, Samuel. Managing information technology in small businesses: challengesà ‚  and solutions. Hershey, PA: Idea Group Publishing, 2002. Print. Crest. There is fast food, then there is KFC. 3. June 2008. 2 April 2011. Web. Floyd, Callum. The great fast food challenge. 4 August 2006. 2 April 2011 Print. FRSVISION. The success stories. 3 May 2001. 2 April 2011. Web. Hitt, Michael, Ireland, Duane and Hoskisson, Robert. Strategic management:  competitiveness and globalization; concepts and cases. Mason, OH: South-Western, 2009. Print. Hoovers Incorporation. KFC Coporation. 2 Dec. 2010. 2 April 2011. Web. Kazmi, Azhar. Strategic management and business policy. New Delhi: Tata McGraw Hill Education, 2008. Print. Plummer, Joseph. The online advertising playbook: proven strategies and tested tactics  from the advertising research foundation. Hoboken, NJ: Wiley, 2007. Print. Sekhar, Satya. Business policy and strategic management. London: IK international Publisher. Slack, Trevor and Parent, Milena. Understanding sport organizations: the application of  organiz ation theory. Champaign, IL: Human Kinetic, 2006. Print. Smith, Andrew. The oxford companion to American food and drink. London: Oxford University Press, 2007. Print. The Franchise Mall. KFC to test online ordering. 20 June 2007. 2 April 2011. Web. Vequist, David, Jackson, Stacy, Teachout, Mark, VanderVeen, Steve and Eames, Bob.  Capstone and Experiential Class Workbook. Dubuque, IA: Kendall Hunt, 2009. Print. Witt, Bob and Meyer, Ron. Strategy process, content, context; an international  perspective. Andover, Hampshire: Cengage Learning, 2010.Print. This report on Kentucky Fried Chicken was written and submitted by user Joaquin Black to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.

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