The Provenance Paradox

The provenance paradox describes the challenge for brands originating in a number of regions in the world failing to compete in the top tier markets. Their origin carries a stigma which places them at an inferior position to brands that originate in supposedly more developed and reputable regions. Certain geographies are perceived to produce better products than others, despite the essence being that the products are of the same quality. Following the examples from the case on how they built their up market positions with the strategies for combating the provenance paradox have been detailed: Flaunt Your Country of Origin and Stick to Colonial History Example: Chocolates El Rey and Concha y Toro Chocolates El Rey fails to find a position in the market where it can compete with the famous brands solely because it comes from Venezuela. For this chocolate brand, breaking through the barrier may be through emphasis on the fact that the reputable European chocolate brands actually acquire their main ingredient- cacao beans from El Rey. If El Rey processes these cacao beans, what would prevent it from maintaining the same quality in taste and richness when producing their own chocolate product? However, this may still be a weak point to stress on for El Rey, as consumers may still doubt them having the supposed expertise in refining the ingredient into the final chocolate product. Furthermore, Concha y Toro, the Chilean winemaker should deeply engage in brand management, like El Rey, in order to build stronger awareness of Chile’s exclusive varietals. By this, we describe wines made primarily from a single named grape variety typically displaying the name of that variety on the wine label. Both of these brands should stick to what they do best, in the case of El Rey, them processing some of the best cacao beans in the world, and Concha y Toro having its country, Chile producing great varietals and having a long viticultural history dating to the 16th century, should keep on the combat to get their brands known by firstly establishing price competition and continuing to be low-cost suppliers as they continue to focus on the commodities that made their countries successful way back, and hence achieve scale. Downplay Your Country of Origin Example: Corona Beer Other producers counter the effects that arise with the branded product origin on the positioning of the brand in the market by deviating focus from where the brand really comes from. Where the product is manufactured becomes an insignificant factor in the promotion, and other attributes of the branded product place it on the upper market segment. Corona Beer is one of the brands that use this strategy of ‘downplaying the country of origin’. This type of combat to the provenance paradox renders the brand at risk of not being strong enough to sustain growth in popularity and trust as consumers eventually want to relate the product to where it really comes from. Not establishing the origin raises doubt of authenticity by the consumers. Nonetheless it works well in preventing the brand from being harmed by geographical undermining. Hide Behind A Front Country Example: India IT consulting companies Companies known to produce relatively cheap products are associated with low quality as well. This is the example of IT consulting companies from India as they are presumed to be good for outsourcing IT grunt work, but not for high-level strategic consulting. Hence, these companies tend to consider the â€Å"hide behind a front country† strategy by setting up fronts in Europe to be able to earn premiums for their services in Europe by downplaying the fact that they are Indian companies and choosing to hide behind a front country. Build a Brand For the Long Haul Example: Korean LG & Samsung and Japan automobiles In the electronics industry, brands such as LG and Samsung did not just reach great heights overnight. The fact that they are of Korean origin raised many doubts about their product being of quality competent enough to compete with top electronic brands. The perception of the Brands not being good quality was gradually countered through a strategy of building a brand for the long haul. They did not just emulate high performing brands overnight, but they let the consumers realize their quality through the smaller markets that hey were initially able to penetrate. With time, consumer confidence in the brands positioned them in the upmarket segment. Furthermore, Japan can serve as the best example of how the slow progression to upmarket positioning is nothing easy as after 50 years the Japanese brands in the automobile industry (Nissan, Honda and Toyota), and electronics (Sony) have achieved the upscale position commanding steep premiums with strategic and financial commitment. End note. Having also learnt about â€Å"The Champagne Effect†, where the Protected Geographical Status is a framework of labeling restrictions enforced by the European Union, this framework is more of a tool to insulate brands from quality competition by reinforcing stereotypes about provenance and limiting opportunities for new players from new markets, and not really to prevent inauthentic, cheaper products. This only serves as another hurdle for emerging-market companies. However, as brands compete to overcome provenance paradox, they should consider social media, such as facebook, as this is an inexpensive channel to tout positive consumer reviews and hence get their brands known globally. They should follow what the top brands are already doing. The brands seeking for acceptance have a long way to go as emerging markets are developing faster than the stereotypes are eroding. Hence, with the help of the strategies for combating the provenance paradox they will be able to get out there and be globally recognized with patience, and long standing perseverance.

Definition informal personality type Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Definition informal personality type - Assignment Example According to my pals, I am a no-nonsense girl who cares less about the public opinion as long as I achieve my goals. Nonetheless, this does not mean violating other people’s rights and freedom in order to succeed in my endeavors. My strong personality has gained me different names from my male and female friends. However, the word jerk is beyond my character. I might cause a conflict or pain to individuals who threaten my freedom or intend to divert my goals, but under normal circumstances, I am calm and friendly. The society has a wrong perception of womanhood due to the stereotypes and male domination. Consequently, women and girls who express their willingness to confront patriarchy receive social neglect and labelling. I am firm girl who intends to follow my dream and achieve the success that fits my description. I draw my inspiration from Margret Thatcher, and if my idol was a jerk, I intend to be one as it is profitable than being

Outline and assess Foucault's critique of modernity Essay - 1

Outline and assess Foucault's critique of modernity - Essay Example Finally, the third section will be devoted to Foucaultian critique of institutional basis of modernity and the disciplinary character of its rationality. It will be argued that, while Foucault denounced various aspects of modernity, he did not attempt to idealise pre-modern thought/institutions, and remained unsure about social project alternative to modernity, thus contributing to similar indecisiveness among the following post-modernist thinkers. 1. Foucault’s Archaeology of Knowledge: A Critique of Rationalist Objectivity The modern account of knowledge was premised upon the representationalist epistemology founded by Descartes. Rejecting previous assumptions on the nature and purposes of human knowledge, Descartes posited that knowledge is derived from accurate determination of correspondence of certain representations with the actual objects of external world, a correspondence that can in principle be verified by constructing certain methodological arguments (Gutting, 199 9, p. 116). Later modern thinkers basically followed this Cartesian epistemology, assuming that representations under consideration are derived from some innate properties of human mind and reality. Foucault based his epistemological critique of modern philosophy on the thorough deconstruction of Cartesian notions of knowledge. He affirms the historically specific character of knowledge, as opposed to ahistorical Cartesian account of epistemological procedures, assuming that development of structures of human knowledge is governed by alterations in episteme, i.e. ‘total set of relations that unite... the discursive practices that give rise to epistemological figures, sciences, and possibly formalised systems’ (Foucault, 2002a, p. 211). Foucault believes that the development of distinctively modern episteme was caused by shift from the Renaissance view of knowledge as system of resemblances that was predicated upon the clarification of interrelation between various objec ts of surrounding world and men’s place in it, to analytical and interpretational forms of cognition (Carrette, 2000, pp. 15-16). The latter were based not on ‘the sudden and illuminating discovery that all thought is thought’ but on ‘constantly renewed interrogation’ of ‘the forms of non-thinking’ that leads to the reduction of empirical world to some universal and transcendental dialectics (Foucault, 2002b, p. 353). Foucault surmises that universalistic assumptions of modernity’s epistemology are invalidated by the discursive and ultimately relative nature of knowledge as such, for, in his view, the structures of knowledge depend on the character of discourse as practice that brings about the very object that are spoken of (Mahon, 1992, p. 11). Here, one may find that Foucault maintains that the discursive nature of language and knowledge practices does not allow for some objective, universal discourse, and therefore that modern ity’s pretences for formulating a transparent methodology of knowledge are unfounded. 2. Foucault on Subject: The Rejection of A Priori Subjectivity The modernity’s view on subject is generally predicated upon the idea of its universality and humanist character, which means that ‘

The Five-Task Strategy Making Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

The Five-Task Strategy Making - Assignment Example Monitoring significantly increases the chances of success of the strategy-making process because it offers a critical outlook of the whole exercise, including areas of weakness and how to correct them. Unlike monitoring, evaluation is concerned with what has been achieved. In this exercise, the organization examines the decisions and actions it has taken and determines whether they were successful or not. In case of failure or success, evaluation reveals the reasons for the outcome. The organization can then use this information to develop more effective processes in the future. Corrective adjustments are often done either to increase the success ratio of the process, or to develop better procedures and systems to support future processes (Neluheni, Pretorius, & Ukpere, 2014). The whole process of monitoring, evaluation, and corrective adjustments can be done by either internal or external practitioners. Ultimately, organizations should aim at limiting the amount of monitoring, corrective adjustments and evaluation by conducting highly efficient and effective planning (Valler, Tait, & Marshall, 2013). Thorough planning limits the need for intensive monitoring and evaluation and large-scale adjustments by reducing the number of mistakes made. There are three key elements of strategic planning addressed in this case study. The first is the development of a strategic vision, mission, and core values. The second is setting objectives, while the third is crafting a strategy to attain the objectives and the company vision. In this case, Harry Lindsol, who is a prospective investor, has conducted an analysis of the market and relevant trends before deciding on the best investment option (Thompson, Peteraf, Gamble, & Strickland, 2014). He has also made a strategic investment decision because his course of action is based on comprehensive analysis and evaluation of all relevant factors. A major advantage offered by eBooks relates to editions.

Subcontracting strategy for future SBM offshore projects and its Dissertation

Subcontracting strategy for future SBM offshore projects and its implemetntation - Dissertation Example Subcontractors have increasingly become important players in enhancing the productivity and economic strategies of a company. However, not much empirical studies have been done on these issues. The main purpose of this study is to investigate the process of subcontracting and find options for optimizing the value chain in the oil & gas industry by reviewing and analyzing previously written literature on the chosen topic for the research. In the literature review section, the concepts of subcontracting, risk management, contracts, project management, supply chain management, value chain and transaction cost theory are discussed. A single case study was applied in this thesis. The company chosen for the case study is SBM Offshore and is located in Netherlands. To carry out the research, a qualitative research approach was implemented. Primary data was collected through semi structured interviews. In addition to this, secondary data from different sources such as articles, journals, boo ks and company resources were used to construct or build the theoretical frame of reference for the thesis. The subcontracting philosophy should stipulate that the scope of the work to be subcontracted will be determined by risk assessment and performance of subcontracting companies. Also, contract requirements will meet regulatory compliance of safety and performance along with meeting the company’s standards. Table of Contents Acknowledgements 2 Abstract 3 List of Tables 6 List of Figures 6 CHAPTER ONE 1 1.0 Introduction 1 1.2 Background of the Study 2 1.3 Statement of the Problem 3 1.4 Purpose of the report 3 1.5 Introduction to SBM Offshore 4 1.6 Overview of Operations 4 1.7 Project Aims and Objectives 5 1.8 Project Objectives 5 CHAPTER TWO 7 2.0 Literature Review 7 2.1 Project Management 7 2.2 Subcontracting 8 2.3 Contracts 8 2.3 Risk Management 9 2.4 Theoretical and Conceptual Framework 11 2.4.1 Transaction cost analysis (TCA) 11 2.4.2 Supply chain management theory 14 2.4.3 Porter’s value chain 15 CHAPTER THREE 17 3.0 Research Methodology 17 3.1 Research Design 17 3.3 Research Strategy 18 3.4 Case study Approach 18 3.5 Population 19 3.6 Data Collection and Instrumentation 19 3.7 Data Analysis 20 3.8 Ethical Considerations 21 3.9 Limitations and De-limitations 22 CHAPTER FOUR 23 4.0 Data Presentation, Analysis and Interpretation 23 4.1 Quantitative Study 24 4.1.0 Participant Demographics 24 4.1.1 Subcontracted work 25 4.2 Case Study Analysis 26 4.3 Subcontracting Scope of Work 28 4.3.1 Structural topsides 29 4.3.2 Piping 30 4.3.3 Electrical 30 4.3.4 Instrumentation 30 4.4 Subcontracting Strategies 30 4.4.1 Lump sum or reimbursable contract 31 4.4.2 Subcontract strategy 31 4.4.3 Scope control 32 CHAPTER FIVE 35 5.0 Conclusion 35 References 36 Appendix I – Engineering deliverables by design phase 41 List of Tables Table 1: Demographics of the study participants....................

A History of Modern Psychology Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

A History of Modern Psychology - Essay Example Following the year 1870, college students in the United States increasingly became responsive to the innovative psychology: a professor at Harvard University, William James, initiated theories of intellect and displayed pragmatic results with a set of ‘brass devices’, taken from laboratories of physics and physiology. â€Å"Wundt, who is considered to be the originator of contemporary psychology† (Schultz, 2011), wrote extensively on psychology as an autonomous educational field and, during the year 1879, founded the earliest psychological laboratory. Sigmund Freud developed his individual structure of psychology as well as psychiatric therapy, which he named as psychoanalysis. His structure was extended by means of an apprentice technique of â€Å"training analysis† (Schultz, 2011) earlier than the psychoanalyst started a private practice. Psychoanalysis within America turns out to be linked with the medicinal line of work, expanding independently from edu cational psychology. Early Western philosophy is identified largely by the three great thinkers: Socrates, Plato and Aristotle. They set the groundwork for Western philosophy by investigating and describing the â€Å"range, scope, method, terminology, and problematic of psychological investigation† (Goodwin, 2008). In the 19th century, the issue of the ‘relationship of mind to brain’ turns out to be ever more critical. In fact, the concern was so profound that it is complicated to discover a methodical text printed after 1860 that does not have a dialogue about this concern. Largely, this directly revealed two key advancements that united to make an impact on philosophers as well as psychologists with the ‘centrality of the mind/brain problem’. The first of these deals with improvement in understanding the localization of intellectual job, founded on the thought that the brain serves as the part of mind. The second deals with a rising awareness with the opinion that mental occurrences - such as faiths, intellectual ideas, captivating trance states, and intuitive upsets - occasionally result in drastic modifications in the condition of the body. This alteration took place as advancement was made in knowing the nature of functional nervous disorders’. During the year 1870, Shadworth Hodgson provided the earliest contemporary expression of a vision that he named as ‘epiphenomenalism’ (Benjamin, 2006). Descartes had envisioned the thought that animals were entirely â€Å"physical automata devoid of mental states, a notion that carries with it the implication that a completely self-sufficient neural mechanism can produce complicated and apparently intelligent acts† (Benjamin, 2006). Later this vision was broadened to include human beings, but moderated so that just the underlying usefulness and not the real existence of psychological conditions were rejected. In addition, dominant in the rising discipline of psychology, were discussions surrounding the usefulness of Mesmerism in addition to the importance of phrenology. The earlier one was extended during the year 1770 by Anton Mesmer, who declared to apply the control of ‘gravity’ to heal a number of physical as well as psycho

Globalization and Anti-Globalization Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2750 words

Globalization and Anti-Globalization - Essay Example In its ambit, it includes the conception and development of statutory and institutional frameworks that should be able to capture and manifest the quintessence of what is meant by globalization. Globalization is a phenomenon that is not only expected to redefine the political and business priorities throughout the world, but is also expected to lead to a forging of the novel alliances amongst nations that are sans boundaries, cultural limitations and narrow visions (Zeiler: 4). At least this is what the champions of globalization prefer to maintain. The reactions manifested by the individuals and interest groups towards globalization can broadly be classified under three categories that is one who avidly support globalization, others who denounce globalization and the third who prefer to be fence sitters or to be apathetic. However, considering the unprecedented levels of importance of the issue under consideration, it raises many issues that sometimes border on the verge of conflict or contention. There is nothing wrong with it considering the fact that any major change in any vibrant society aught to be accompanied by much intense soul searching and pragmatic catechism. The supporters of globalization declare it to be a complex and synergistic process that is expected to bring in vast amounts of investments, expertise, technological know how and international backing to the third world nations (Anshuman 2006: 11). It is boasted to be a panacea that is expected to cure all the ills prevalent in the third world. Positively thinking, it may turn out to be so. However, on the other side there also exist a parallel and staunch anti-globalization lobby that is an amalgamation of many loose knit and scattered groups that owe allegiance to a plethora of race, gender, ethnicity and labour oriented issues (Epstein 2001: 3). Realistically speaking, globalization is a gargantuan phenomenon that happens to be much larger then individuals and groups. It is impossible for a ny individual or isolated group to grasp the implications of globalization at one go. Hence it becomes imperative to bite and digest this phenomenon in bits and pieces so as to get hold of its full potential. Despite all the aversions to this narrow approach, this calls for taking sides. Infact this is what this paper intends to do. 'The purpose of this paper is to evaluate and analyse globalization from the vantage point of an underdog and to interpret the possible implications and interpretation of globalization as an extension and perpetuation of the colonialist tendencies of the yore.'As already said that the paramount issue of globalization raises many throbbing issues and questions, it will be worthwhile to take a stock of these queries to get some insight into them. Will the advent and proliferation of globalization will give way to an internationally dominant class that will be in a position to perpetually exploit the