Bathroom Fittings and Fixtures Industry in India Essay

Bathroom Fittings and Fixtures Industry Industry overview: The bathroom fittings industry which was not given much importance till a few years back in India has suddenly picked up. This has mainly happened due to the rising income of the people, rapid urbanization, and growth in the class conscious middle class. The Bathroom fittings industry in India is among the most booming industries in the country. Every year companies are coming up with new products or refurbishing old products with new designs and features. Due to the rapid growth of the country’s population the need for houses is continuously increasing. Both the Government and private sector real estate companies are investing huge amounts of money in this sector. The rise in the demand for good housing facilities is giving rise to the demand of quality bathroom accessories market in India. Countries like India and China are ranked among the major bathroom fittings market currently mostly because of their sizable populations. Industry Structure: India is home to numerous top bathroom fittings brands. The Industry is both organized and unorganized. The Bathroom fitting industry in India consists of a number of small, medium and large manufacturers. The small companies are mostly the local players that cater to a small section of the society. Whereas the popular bathroom fitting companies are mostly the top foreign and domestic players that have managed to establish a reputation in the Bathroom accessories market. Key Drivers of the Industry Industry works on the principle of demand and supply. Every industry is drive by the market forces and the market forces are affected by various forces. Key driver’s infact generated demand for the industry. Bathroom fitting industry is no exception to this rule. This industry is too like other industries are driven by various market forces which are as follows: Rising Income of the people and hence their purchasing power parity (PPP) The rapid urbanization due to which the demand for bathroom fittings is growing More and more investment in the construction sector both by domestic players and the foreign MNCs. Growing awareness among the people regarding bathroom architecture and fittings. Advertisement especially in developing nations is key factor in creating product awareness and hence the demand. Market Overview: Indian Sanitary Ware Industry bullish India, today, is all set to become the biggest manufacturing hub for international sanitary wares brand. The bathroom fittings market in the country is growing at a rate of 13. 3% per annum; India’s current sanitary ware market size is almost 500 crores and is growing at an annual growth rate of 3-4 percent in the industry. Going forward, India will have a huge market for sanitary ware products and of course the export market will also grow simultaneously. Further, government’s support to improve sanitation and hygiene and increasing urbanization has given a big push to the Indian sanitary ware industry. The companies are applying accurate standards and using top machinery and stringent quality measures with latest designs to manufacture finest quality machines India, today, is all set to become the biggest manufacturing hub for international sanitary wares brand. For the starters, Indian sanitary wares are comparatively cheaper as opposed to our western counterparts, courtesy availability of ample raw materials and low cost labor in comparison to other countries. This in fact has given Indian sanitary ware products an edge over the competitors from the nearby countries and naturally the exports of sanitary wares from India is scaling up. Certainly, Industry’s growth is directly related to the development in real estate. Today, housing’s demands are on rise. And interestingly people have started taking interest in top sanitary wares. The increased demand for sanitary ware is not just emanating from the new projects but there is a huge market for replacement products also. The remarkable growth by the industry has inspired industry majors to enhance their manufacturing system and even apply latest technology to give customers value for their money. Moreover, Indian companies are taking a step further to enlighten people about the advantages of premium sanitary wares. With 15 to 17 percent growth per year, Indian manufacturers have strengthened their dealer network all across the country. Demand for Made-in-India Sanitary Wares in the International Markets Market Share: Key Players: 1. Hindware: In 1960 Mr. Rajendra K. Somany established Hindustan Twyfords, in collaboration with Twyfords Ltd. of UK. With a bent towards innovation coupled with the intention to introduce vitreous china ceramics in India, he identified the sanitaryware market as the segment of interest.

Business Plan

BUSINESS PLAN GLOBAL MUSHROOM COMPANY LTD. -â€Å"quality first† MS in Agricultural Economics(Agribusiness and Marketing) MD. TAUHIDUL ISLAM LEVEL-4; SEMESTER-1 ID. NO. : 09 AEAM JD 03M REG. NO. :31636 Group : C DEPT. of AGRIBUSINESS & MARKETING BANGLADESH AGRICULTURAL UNIVERSITY. MYMENSINGH BUSINESS PLAN SECTION 1: THE BUSINESS PROFILE Description of My Business Our product is Mushroom. We will produce, package and set price in our own farm. Targeted Market and Customers Our customers will be different departmental store, hotels and restaurants. Our product is new arrival in Bangladesh and it is highly nutritious. Growth Trends In This Business Yes, the market for our products is growing, because our product has increasing demand to the people, specially to the educated people. Pricing Power The unique qualities of our product are:- -nutritious -nontoxic -it is suitable for all classes of people, especially for diabetic patient and educated people. SECTION 2: THE VISION AND THE PEOPLE We are passionately committed of our new business to provide highly qualified mushroom to all classes of people specially for highly educated people. THE PEOPLE Work Experience Related to My Intended Business We got training from reputed mushroom cultivation training centre. Again we will appoint a mushroom cultivation specialist. Personal Background and Education Credentials We are expected to complete graduation this year from Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh . SECTION 3: COMMUNICATIONS Computer and Communications Tools Resource Requirements: Communications -Telephone/ mobile phone Tk. 10000/year -Advertisement Tk. 80000/year -Leaflet Tk. 5000/year -Internet Tk. 14000/year Telephones Telephone/mobile phone Tk. 10000/year Computers One computer and one printer Tk. 25,000 Computer accessories Tk. 5000 Internet Internet Tk. 14,000/year SECTION 4: ORGANIZATION Business Organization We want to form a JOINTSTOCK business organization. It is our intention to grow our company into a large farm throughout the country. Professional Consultants I feel it is important that my team of professional advisors be in place before I start in business. Here is a list of these professionals: 1. Lawyer-A. T. M. Golam Hossain 2. Accountant: Rakibul Hasan 3. Insurance Agent: Real Insurance Company 4 . Banker: Abdul Bari 5. Trainer: Aktaruzzaman Licenses 1. Trade license SECTION 5: LICENSES, PERMITS AND BUSINESS NAMES Due Diligence Procedures for Licenses, Permits and Business Names: Licenses: State: Trade license Slogan: Indicate your slogan intentions if any exist Our slogan is â€Å"quality first†. SECTION 6: INSURANCE Insurance (Session 6): List the form of insurance coverage including cost are anticipated. We plan to use the services of Real Insurance Company, as our insurance agent. SECTION 7: PREMISES Location Criteria †¢space requirements : 71 decimal †¢future requirements : 33 decimal SECTION 8: ACCOUNTING AND CASH FLOW Accounting COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF BALANCE SHEET Particulars Year20082009201020112012 Assets: Cash 50,000 60,000 75,000 90,000 1,00,000 Land3,22,7274,02,7274,82,7275,67,2725,67,272 Building(office room , store house & warehouse)4,00,0003,95,0003,90,0003,85,0003,80,000 Less: depreciation5,0005,0005,0005,0005,000 3,95,0003,90,0003,85,0003,80,0003,75,000 Computer , printer30,00028,00026,00024,00022,000 Less: depreciation2,0002,0002,0002,0002,000 28,00026,00024,00022,00020,000 Hut4,62,9905,78,7376,94,4846,94,4846,94,484 Equipment(rack & sprayer)65,20080,20097,80085,80073,800 Less: depreciation8,0009,50012,00012,00012,000 57,20070,70085,80073,80061,800 Vehicles(car & van)2,10,0001,99,0001,88,0001,77,0001,66,000 Less: depreciation11,00011,00011,00011,00011,000 1,99,0001,88,0001,77,0001,66,0001,55,000 Value of life insurance20,00020,00020,00020,00020,000 Raw materials inventories2,400,00030,00,00036,00,00039,60,00043,20,000 Supplies1,00,0001,20,0001,50,0001,80,0002,00,000 Total Assets40,34,91748,56,16456,94,01161,53,55665,13,556 Liabilities and Owners equity Liabilities : Bank loan20,00,00020,00,00015,00,00010,00,0008,00,000 Accounts payable1,00,9172,56,1646,94,0116,53,55611,13,556 Owners equity15,00,00020,00,00025,00,00030,00,00030,00,000 Retain earning4,34,0006,00,00010,00,00015,00,00016,00,000 Total Liabilities and Owners Equity40,34,91748,56,16456,94,01161,53,55665,13,556 Particulars Year20082009201020112012 Revenue: Gross sales48,00,00063,00,0007920,0008640,0009180,000 Less: sales return and allowance1,00,0002,00,000100,00025,00025,000 Net sales47,00,00061,00,0007820,0008615,0009155,000 Cost of goods sold: Inventory01,00,000200,000250,000250,000 Purchase24,00,00030,00,0003600,0003960,0004320,000 Less: purchase return 50,00075,00080,000100,000100,000 Net cost purchase2350,0002925,0003520,000386,0004220,000 Cost of goods available for sale 2350,0003025,0003720,0004110,0004470,000 Less: inventory1,00,000200,000250,000250,000250,000 Cost of goods sold22,50,0002825,0003470,0003860,0004220,000 Gross margin24,50,0003275,0004350,0004755,0004935,000 Operating expenses:, Advertisement cost80,000150,000100,00050,00025,000 Payroll4,68,000500,000560,000600,000600,000 Expense in license9,000 Transportation expenses1,50,000180,000280,000330,000330,000 Repairing and maintenance cost50,00060,00070,00070,00070,000 Insurance (fire)20,00020,00020,00020,00020,000 Telephone and internet24,00030,00035,00035,00035,000 Other expenses13,60020,00025,00050,00050,000 Cumulative depreciation27,50027,50030,00030,00030,000 Total operating expenses8,42,100987,5001120,0001185,0001160,000 Net earnings16,07,9002287,5003230,0003570,0003775,000 Less :interest expense2,40,000240,000180,000120,00096,000 Net profit / loss13,67,9002047,5003049,9703450,0003679,000 Growth(profit/sales*100)29. 1%33. 57%39%40. 05%40. 19% COMPAR ATIVE ANALYSIS OF INCOME STATEMENT Cash Flow Planning Checklist (Tk. /year) operating expenses: Advertisement cost80,000 Payroll468,000 Expense in license9,000 Transportation expenses150,000 Repairing and maintenance cost50,000 Insurance (fire)20,000/ Telephone and internet24,000 Other expenses13,600 Cumulative depreciation27,500 Total operating expenses 842,100 Capital investment1500000 Estimated sales4800000 Analysis of Costs Fixed costs: Land, building, equipment, hut, computer, depreciation, managers salaries, insurance, license cost, interest expense and vehicles. Variable costs: labor cost, Straw, Spawn, formalin, repair and maintenance cost and advertisement cost. Product cost: Straw, Spawn, formalin packaging and formalin. Delivery cost: Fuel, vehicles and drivers’ salaries . Internal Controls We will always supervise the overall activities in strong hand. If we get any dishonesty or carelessness in any kinds of business activities then we take necessary steps for controlling them properly. We will give rewards and incentives for appreciating the good works and punishments for skulking. We will keep record of every transaction and also we will try to ensure friendly environment for all employees in the company. SECTION 10: E-COMMERCE E-Commerce Plans We plan to build and install a registered website name www. glbmashroom. com . This site will contain attractive advertisement on our product. Buyers will get update information and they can merchandise via this website. E-Commerce Budgeting 1. Rent for domain – Tk. 1,000/year E-Commerce Competition We will provide more discount comparatively our best competitors. We will send our e-mail to our expected buyers containing our product advertisement. SECTION 11: ACQUISITIONS Due Diligence Procedures for Acquisitions # Our consulting team: Lawyer, accountant, banker, trainer, etc. # How we plan to authenticate- By providing sales receipt. # Sellers records to be inspected: Financial statements, sales backlog, cash deposit records, utility bills, accounts payable and receivable, financial comparisons of similar businesses, etc. # Appraisals, as appropriate. Yes. # Market conditions. Oligopoly market. # Value of goodwill exists. # Method of purchase: stock, assets, etc SECTION 12: MARKETING Marketing Plan We will personally contact with the buyers. We give fresh styling, quality product price incentive to them. We provide the transport facilities and arrange Mushroom food product festival every year to create more concentration of buyers. Advertising and Promotion Plans Plans Budget(Tk. /year) Internet 10,000 Television 40,000 Newspaper 20,000 Poster 5,000 leaflet 5,000 Training Policies We will hire a honest, skill and smart trainer for increasing the efficiency of our sales manager for specific period of time. The Competition BRAC is our strongest competitor, because they have -large overhead structure -large amount of capital -strong brand recognition But we intend to compete with the BRAC by the following ways- -attractive packaging price incentive -Mushroom food product festival -quality maintain -advertising -transportation facilities. How I Plan to Take Advantage of Competitors Weak Points The shortcomings of our competitors are as follows -slow motive to change product quality -price of product relatively higher than us -insufficient supply We plan to overcome their leadership with fresh new designs, artwork packaging and to provide at a lower price. SECTION 13: GROWTH PROGRAM Expansion Sources of financing :B ank and own capital Cash flow: Mushroom sale(cash inflow) Input purchase(cash outflow) Benefit package and policies: Those who are regular customer we sell the product to them at a lower price and sometime we will offer discount for product. Handling Major Problems Adverse conditions Response 1. Reduction in sales -sales promotion 2. Fall in price -reduce supply 3. Rise in input price -increase in output price How and where we reduce costs- -In advertising(in case of leaflet and postering ) -transportation cost will reduce when the company acquired goodwill to all kinds of customers. Business plan Pronunciation Brainless is start-up online business brain training game focused on person who deeds to enhance and improve their brains in the area of memory, attention and problem solving skill. The games are consisted of more than 25 training fitness games to challenge cognitive abilities in our brain. The company was established In the begging of 2014 with five co-founders from various expertise backgrounds. Parabolas also has the professional team and staffs with over 8-10 years experiences in each section to support our business.The company has a small office where was to the beginning of business. Since, we are online business and the startup company thus it would help us to minimize the cost for rental fee. . Executive summary Brainless is a first mover in online fitness brain game offering cognitive training of brain health in Thailand. The company has five co-founders who they are Dry. Daniel Brown, a neuroscience PhD from Stanford University in field of development human co gnition brain from United State, the second is Ms. Staring who is specialize in Information technology from Slovakia.The rest three persons are from Thailand which are Ms. Rattan, Mr.. Star and Ms. Hansson. Ms. Rattan will be concerning in Accosting and budget of the company because she is an expertise from Financial field. Besides, Sale and Marketing will be handled and promoted by Mr.. Star since he graduated both Bachelor and Master degree in major of Marketing from well- known University in Thailand. The last co-founder is responsible for general management and human resources because she has over eight years' experiences in this field.As we Just start up our online game business in Thailand, we are located in Bangkok area at Dry. Denial Brown house. Our company will be focus on Thai audiences who have 25 years old upward and income around 20,000 Baht per month. However, we would be expand market share to Asian countries in order to generate more revenue ND serve demand of the i ntention for Asian people who would like to practice and develop their mental skills and brains. The company also expects to capture market share by to be the first online training game in Thailand and a leader in this type of business in Asia.This is because we are different from many online games like Nintendo and Kudos in term of prove and evidence from scientific researcher. Our advertising are mainly through Internet and social media such as Faceable, Santos. Com, Kapok. Com and search engine. 3. Mission a. Mission and vision Mission Nowadays more and more people are paying attention to healthy lifestyle, including health eating and adequate amount of physical exercise. Whereas brain, similarly as provide the customer an option to develop brain activity also in parts, which are not used daily and to subsequently track progress.Vision Within Thai market it is important for us to ensure stability and afterwards expand our customer base. Opportunity for the future represents possi bility to expand to other markets of East Asian region and to become leaders in this part of the world. B. Objectives/Goals Goals Short-term 1) To increase awareness of non-user toward Brainless. Long-term 1) To improve customer service and product itself. 2) To increase sale revenue by expansion market to Asia. Objective 1) Create customer knowledge about how important of brain improvement. 2) Install customer tracking software. C.Keys to success The keys to success for Brainless are: 1 . Continuous development of new brain games that will ensure permanent attractiveness of the Brainless to customers. 2. Effectively establishing reputation as an exceptional company. 3. Cooperation with researchers, scientists and universities with the aim of improving games. 4. Simple design and ease of use of the web site noticeable. . Leaderless which allows the customers to compare their scores with other registered users scores d. SOOT analysis e. Strategies Loyalty program We will choose 2-3 g ames in each month for competition.The winner, who got the highest score in that game at the end of the month, will be received 10 – 20 percent discount from Brainless in the next payment for subscription. Winner are classify into three ranks, the first place will receive 20 percent discount and so on. This will help boot more and continue subscription from the customer. To create for long term relationship with the current customers To increase sales room subscription. To create Brainless awareness toward our current customers and their friends or relatives. Strategy Brainless give subscription discount for the winner in order to maintain good relationship with customer.Internet 1 . Apply Google Ad (SEE) word to the website by using keyword â€Å"Brainless, improving brain, game. We allocated the budget to this medium fund about 40,000 baht/ year. 2. Ad-banner for linking to the brand's website in http://www. Kapok. Com (in health section) and http://www. Santos. Com. We wi ll use banner ad in the whole 1 year with the total budgets around baht/ year) Social media As nowadays, Faceable is the most popular social networking website that people can chat, share their interest comments and positive experiences there.So, we will promote information of our company and inform people about Brainless and providing researches which can prove that our games have high quality, also can improve users' brain function via Braininess's Faceable fan page. Moreover, people can communicate and share their results directly with the company and friends. Flogger and Youth channel We will invite flogger who is famous in enhance and improve their potential brains n the area of memory, attention and problem solving skill to play our games. Hire Youth channel about game reviews our games to catch up consumers' attention.We expect that these two channels can play an effective role to get high reputation. And learning, and Uncle Pee channel who famous in game review. Event To cre ate awareness on Brainless toward Bangkok aged from 25 years old above who concerns about health and want to retain their mental faculty as long as possible. To create brand awareness, brand knowledge, and brand experience of Brainless – To promote the Brainless to be well known and reliable web site as training brain name. – To boost up the Brainless sales during the campaign period.We will Join the event as one of exhibitor to introduce Brainless benefits toward the event visitors – Give visitor discount for subscription. Free testing game Free giving cup, pen and brochure about brain care knowledge with Brainless logo as the specialty product. Tactics In the first 2 months, we have to finish all of the responsible website and create our fan page in Faceable under the URL of faceable. Com/page/Brainless – Two weeks before the events, we plan to invite the visitors to participate out booth by posting the invitation card in the fan page of each event.We w ill introduce our self about who we are and for the people who accept our invitation by click like on fan page, they can print out the gift voucher and show to us in the event to get a gift bag for free. – In the event day, we will give a free game sample to the visitors at the same time we will give them flyer the information about Brainless and Brainless benefits. On the top of flyer, we will also provide some special discount in CRY Code. The visitor Just screen the code, they will get 10% discount for the subscription. There is the event that Brainless can Join during the year 201 5 Thailand Game ShowBig Festival @Royal Paragon hall (March 17- 19,201 5) Cost 30,000 baht/ year Brainless represents a simple online tool allowing anyone to exercise variety of core cognitive abilities. It offers a brain training program consisting of 25 funds and challenging games focusing on different areas: Attention, Flexibility, Memory, Problem solving and Speed Brainless offers after a sh ort registration personalized program as well as the opportunity of tracking progress since Just 1 5 minutes training per day can lead to improvements in mentioned areas.It has a social layer too, so the customer can assure his or her results and progress against what other users are doing. Since the Brainless operates as a responsive site, customers can choose whether to train on the computer or on mobile device and still enjoying the same pleasure. 5. Revenue sources Brainless is basically free of charge for sign up as a basic membership and also offer free five days of trial training brain game.After five days of the individualized training plan developed upon first registration, our company is use of subscription services as a major revenue model by offering users or subscribers have to pay a fee o access all training exercise games in the website by monthly, weekly, yearly and lifetime membership. Subscriptions are not only our revenue sources because our company also generate revenues by letting advertisers to advertise in our web site, which means the company will get the revenue source from advertisement fee.Revenue Payment Brainless uses credit card as payment method. 1) Login by I. D 2) Chooses payment term by monthly, yearly 3) Choose credit card and payment method. 6. Future growth opportunities As we are the first brain training game program business in Thailand and first mover n Asia, we are thinking about expansion of our target groups that can serve all ages starting from five years till 75 years old because now our focus audiences are 25 years old upward because some games are not suitable for kids.So, we are trying to develop our games to be more fun, challenging and interesting to learners of all ages in the future. Moreover, in 201 5 our plan for future growth opportunities are to gain more incomes and attract more consumers and users by launching an application on mobile platform both SIS and Android which we considered of the growth of us ing smartness and tablets in Asia Pacific.Asia Pacific smartened penetration is highest in Hong Kong and Singapore at 87 percent, followed by Malaysia (80%), Australia (75%) and China (71 Penetration in developing Asia Pacific markets, while trailing the more developed markets in the region, is gaining traction; Thailand smartened penetration is at 49 percent followed by Indonesia (23%), India (18%) and the Philippines (15%). Tablet ownership has recorded significant growth in many Asia Pacific markets in the past year, in particular Singapore (up 30 percentage points to 47%), Hong Kong (up 27 points to 57%) and Malaysia (up 23 points to 42%). Http://www. Nielsen. Com/pH/en/insights/ news/2014/Asian-mobile-consumers. HTML) In addition, Brainless is looking beyond Thailand to reach a broader audience around Asia like China, Japan and Malaysia. We are plan ahead in future opportunities to develop our website to have more languages in next 2-3 years that it will help to reduce language s barrier and we hope international users can get through and really understand the game to enhance their mental fitness.Moreover, we are also looking for a sponsorship by Thai government to promote Thai people that may emphasis on teenagers to improve their cognitive velveteen in terms of memory, attention and creativity. A. Market analysis Market trends Customer analysis As nowadays, people have care more about their healthy, not only their body shape but also including brain function. Also, as a number of using smart mobile phone increase, people always spend their time on smart mobile phone in daily. Each day, they would got many information from the social network or internet which may be junk information or good information.Imaging that you have to do multi works and update thing around, it would make your brain cannot concentrate on one thing or any things in same time. So, they tend to find some tools that could improve their brain concentrated such as meditation which would prepare them for working and successful in multi skill tasks. As figure table and form the research, the elderly or those aged 60 years and over in Thailand, they found that an increasing number of Thai elder each year is growing, making currently Thailand is a society of seniors.And the working population or labor force survey found that in year 2556, there were 3. 45 million elder workers from the total 9 million elders, or 38. 3 percent of the total who were still worked. It can estimate that in the future, Thai people at ages 65 or above are still planning to be working as the number of the older is increased. And because of health concerns and people waiting to retain their mental faculty as long as possible, it makes the brain health business is growing steadily.Supplier power (Low) As Brainless produces their own games. They do not need any suppliers to involve in their production line. It means that Bargaining of supplier power is low. Barriers to entry (Moderate) For barri ers to entry are relatively high for advanced game because the startup for new business is very high cost in producing online brains improving games and the website much has platform that can measure improving brain which has to use complicated code for create web game. Threat of substitute products (High) Business Plan The main reason to have the clothing business on Commerce is because it has the biggest potential to give a free rein to enormous savings and business efficiencies. However the practicalities remain indefinable. The commerce focus the way to handle the change in the global planning and purchasing of transport as well as it contribute to the supply chain as logistics. The key activator to E-business is defined as logistics. Well there comes a question how benefits are enabled to ensure individual logistics and transport companies or will it perish in the revolution of E- commerce.E-commerce is the electronic business. Though which clothing business can enter to the power of computers, the internet and shared software to deliver and et product specifications and drawings, buying orders and receipts, bids, and other they of information related to data that is required to be conversed to suppliers, the public, employees and most importantly with customers. Below written is the SOOT analy sis of Men and Women Clothing business at Jersey Shore Boardwalk (Edutainment, 2002).SOOT Analysts: Strength: 0 The huge advantage of the E-commerce clothing store will be Global location I. E. Boundary less 0 There will be no time constraints to it. 0 Biggest benefit is price and product comparison can be made easily. 0 It will be cost effective for the clothing store. 0 The clothing store can easily direct communicate with consumer and can improved customer interaction. Moreover an E-commerce site will allow the clothing store to have flexible target market segmentation. It will be simple and easier to exchange of details and information.You will have a lower transaction cost and not only this you can easily do arrangement of products. 0 Customers can experience faster buying procedure 0 Company don't require to have a physical set up 0 Transactions are made easily. 0 Availability of Niche products Furthermore an advantage of low operating cost. Weakness: 0 Security is a big conce rn for every customer if they are buying online for verification of their personal information like credit card and other related secured information. 0 There a chance of fake websites similar to our open and used our name. Chances of fraud 0 Customers have fewer discounts offered and no chance of bargaining is available. 0 It might take long delivery timing. 0 If the quality is not maintained by the company related to the physical condition of the clothing products will become the biggest disadvantage for the company. If you are selling limited products in the clothing category or limited styles might 0 Might have a more shipping cost. 0 Customers get limited exposure and you get limited excess to advertising. 0 Hard to fulfill customer's satisfaction (Swags & Simian, 2012).For tax issues and purposes a verified address and identity of the location is necessary. International tax laws may hurdle against certain encountered references with legal issues and problems related to the te chnology. 0 There is a big hurdle in making the 4. Thoroughly described 2 online crimes prevalent in e-commerce and what you would do to prevent these crimes. 1. Credit cards frauds These are the biggest of all crimes going around the e-commerce business. Preventive majors: 0 Using address verification system in order to prevent credit card fraud. Verify about any anonymous or suspicious email. 0 Need to know the purchaser IP address to follow up if any fraud is involved in the transaction. 0 Keep interaction with the customer and verify customer billing address and bank details related to the customer. 2. Blocking and Censorship: 0 Filters should be added to your website in order to stop blocking access to control it. 0 Security needs to be more effective in order to provide protection to the customers. It is very important that an e-commerce website should comply with the policy related to censorship and blocking to be followed accordingly. Business Plan BUSINESS PLAN GLOBAL MUSHROOM COMPANY LTD. -â€Å"quality first† MS in Agricultural Economics(Agribusiness and Marketing) MD. TAUHIDUL ISLAM LEVEL-4; SEMESTER-1 ID. NO. : 09 AEAM JD 03M REG. NO. :31636 Group : C DEPT. of AGRIBUSINESS & MARKETING BANGLADESH AGRICULTURAL UNIVERSITY. MYMENSINGH BUSINESS PLAN SECTION 1: THE BUSINESS PROFILE Description of My Business Our product is Mushroom. We will produce, package and set price in our own farm. Targeted Market and Customers Our customers will be different departmental store, hotels and restaurants. Our product is new arrival in Bangladesh and it is highly nutritious. Growth Trends In This Business Yes, the market for our products is growing, because our product has increasing demand to the people, specially to the educated people. Pricing Power The unique qualities of our product are:- -nutritious -nontoxic -it is suitable for all classes of people, especially for diabetic patient and educated people. SECTION 2: THE VISION AND THE PEOPLE We are passionately committed of our new business to provide highly qualified mushroom to all classes of people specially for highly educated people. THE PEOPLE Work Experience Related to My Intended Business We got training from reputed mushroom cultivation training centre. Again we will appoint a mushroom cultivation specialist. Personal Background and Education Credentials We are expected to complete graduation this year from Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh . SECTION 3: COMMUNICATIONS Computer and Communications Tools Resource Requirements: Communications -Telephone/ mobile phone Tk. 10000/year -Advertisement Tk. 80000/year -Leaflet Tk. 5000/year -Internet Tk. 14000/year Telephones Telephone/mobile phone Tk. 10000/year Computers One computer and one printer Tk. 25,000 Computer accessories Tk. 5000 Internet Internet Tk. 14,000/year SECTION 4: ORGANIZATION Business Organization We want to form a JOINTSTOCK business organization. It is our intention to grow our company into a large farm throughout the country. Professional Consultants I feel it is important that my team of professional advisors be in place before I start in business. Here is a list of these professionals: 1. Lawyer-A. T. M. Golam Hossain 2. Accountant: Rakibul Hasan 3. Insurance Agent: Real Insurance Company 4 . Banker: Abdul Bari 5. Trainer: Aktaruzzaman Licenses 1. Trade license SECTION 5: LICENSES, PERMITS AND BUSINESS NAMES Due Diligence Procedures for Licenses, Permits and Business Names: Licenses: State: Trade license Slogan: Indicate your slogan intentions if any exist Our slogan is â€Å"quality first†. SECTION 6: INSURANCE Insurance (Session 6): List the form of insurance coverage including cost are anticipated. We plan to use the services of Real Insurance Company, as our insurance agent. SECTION 7: PREMISES Location Criteria †¢space requirements : 71 decimal †¢future requirements : 33 decimal SECTION 8: ACCOUNTING AND CASH FLOW Accounting COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF BALANCE SHEET Particulars Year20082009201020112012 Assets: Cash 50,000 60,000 75,000 90,000 1,00,000 Land3,22,7274,02,7274,82,7275,67,2725,67,272 Building(office room , store house & warehouse)4,00,0003,95,0003,90,0003,85,0003,80,000 Less: depreciation5,0005,0005,0005,0005,000 3,95,0003,90,0003,85,0003,80,0003,75,000 Computer , printer30,00028,00026,00024,00022,000 Less: depreciation2,0002,0002,0002,0002,000 28,00026,00024,00022,00020,000 Hut4,62,9905,78,7376,94,4846,94,4846,94,484 Equipment(rack & sprayer)65,20080,20097,80085,80073,800 Less: depreciation8,0009,50012,00012,00012,000 57,20070,70085,80073,80061,800 Vehicles(car & van)2,10,0001,99,0001,88,0001,77,0001,66,000 Less: depreciation11,00011,00011,00011,00011,000 1,99,0001,88,0001,77,0001,66,0001,55,000 Value of life insurance20,00020,00020,00020,00020,000 Raw materials inventories2,400,00030,00,00036,00,00039,60,00043,20,000 Supplies1,00,0001,20,0001,50,0001,80,0002,00,000 Total Assets40,34,91748,56,16456,94,01161,53,55665,13,556 Liabilities and Owners equity Liabilities : Bank loan20,00,00020,00,00015,00,00010,00,0008,00,000 Accounts payable1,00,9172,56,1646,94,0116,53,55611,13,556 Owners equity15,00,00020,00,00025,00,00030,00,00030,00,000 Retain earning4,34,0006,00,00010,00,00015,00,00016,00,000 Total Liabilities and Owners Equity40,34,91748,56,16456,94,01161,53,55665,13,556 Particulars Year20082009201020112012 Revenue: Gross sales48,00,00063,00,0007920,0008640,0009180,000 Less: sales return and allowance1,00,0002,00,000100,00025,00025,000 Net sales47,00,00061,00,0007820,0008615,0009155,000 Cost of goods sold: Inventory01,00,000200,000250,000250,000 Purchase24,00,00030,00,0003600,0003960,0004320,000 Less: purchase return 50,00075,00080,000100,000100,000 Net cost purchase2350,0002925,0003520,000386,0004220,000 Cost of goods available for sale 2350,0003025,0003720,0004110,0004470,000 Less: inventory1,00,000200,000250,000250,000250,000 Cost of goods sold22,50,0002825,0003470,0003860,0004220,000 Gross margin24,50,0003275,0004350,0004755,0004935,000 Operating expenses:, Advertisement cost80,000150,000100,00050,00025,000 Payroll4,68,000500,000560,000600,000600,000 Expense in license9,000 Transportation expenses1,50,000180,000280,000330,000330,000 Repairing and maintenance cost50,00060,00070,00070,00070,000 Insurance (fire)20,00020,00020,00020,00020,000 Telephone and internet24,00030,00035,00035,00035,000 Other expenses13,60020,00025,00050,00050,000 Cumulative depreciation27,50027,50030,00030,00030,000 Total operating expenses8,42,100987,5001120,0001185,0001160,000 Net earnings16,07,9002287,5003230,0003570,0003775,000 Less :interest expense2,40,000240,000180,000120,00096,000 Net profit / loss13,67,9002047,5003049,9703450,0003679,000 Growth(profit/sales*100)29. 1%33. 57%39%40. 05%40. 19% COMPAR ATIVE ANALYSIS OF INCOME STATEMENT Cash Flow Planning Checklist (Tk. /year) operating expenses: Advertisement cost80,000 Payroll468,000 Expense in license9,000 Transportation expenses150,000 Repairing and maintenance cost50,000 Insurance (fire)20,000/ Telephone and internet24,000 Other expenses13,600 Cumulative depreciation27,500 Total operating expenses 842,100 Capital investment1500000 Estimated sales4800000 Analysis of Costs Fixed costs: Land, building, equipment, hut, computer, depreciation, managers salaries, insurance, license cost, interest expense and vehicles. Variable costs: labor cost, Straw, Spawn, formalin, repair and maintenance cost and advertisement cost. Product cost: Straw, Spawn, formalin packaging and formalin. Delivery cost: Fuel, vehicles and drivers’ salaries . Internal Controls We will always supervise the overall activities in strong hand. If we get any dishonesty or carelessness in any kinds of business activities then we take necessary steps for controlling them properly. We will give rewards and incentives for appreciating the good works and punishments for skulking. We will keep record of every transaction and also we will try to ensure friendly environment for all employees in the company. SECTION 10: E-COMMERCE E-Commerce Plans We plan to build and install a registered website name www. glbmashroom. com . This site will contain attractive advertisement on our product. Buyers will get update information and they can merchandise via this website. E-Commerce Budgeting 1. Rent for domain – Tk. 1,000/year E-Commerce Competition We will provide more discount comparatively our best competitors. We will send our e-mail to our expected buyers containing our product advertisement. SECTION 11: ACQUISITIONS Due Diligence Procedures for Acquisitions # Our consulting team: Lawyer, accountant, banker, trainer, etc. # How we plan to authenticate- By providing sales receipt. # Sellers records to be inspected: Financial statements, sales backlog, cash deposit records, utility bills, accounts payable and receivable, financial comparisons of similar businesses, etc. # Appraisals, as appropriate. Yes. # Market conditions. Oligopoly market. # Value of goodwill exists. # Method of purchase: stock, assets, etc SECTION 12: MARKETING Marketing Plan We will personally contact with the buyers. We give fresh styling, quality product price incentive to them. We provide the transport facilities and arrange Mushroom food product festival every year to create more concentration of buyers. Advertising and Promotion Plans Plans Budget(Tk. /year) Internet 10,000 Television 40,000 Newspaper 20,000 Poster 5,000 leaflet 5,000 Training Policies We will hire a honest, skill and smart trainer for increasing the efficiency of our sales manager for specific period of time. The Competition BRAC is our strongest competitor, because they have -large overhead structure -large amount of capital -strong brand recognition But we intend to compete with the BRAC by the following ways- -attractive packaging price incentive -Mushroom food product festival -quality maintain -advertising -transportation facilities. How I Plan to Take Advantage of Competitors Weak Points The shortcomings of our competitors are as follows -slow motive to change product quality -price of product relatively higher than us -insufficient supply We plan to overcome their leadership with fresh new designs, artwork packaging and to provide at a lower price. SECTION 13: GROWTH PROGRAM Expansion Sources of financing :B ank and own capital Cash flow: Mushroom sale(cash inflow) Input purchase(cash outflow) Benefit package and policies: Those who are regular customer we sell the product to them at a lower price and sometime we will offer discount for product. Handling Major Problems Adverse conditions Response 1. Reduction in sales -sales promotion 2. Fall in price -reduce supply 3. Rise in input price -increase in output price How and where we reduce costs- -In advertising(in case of leaflet and postering ) -transportation cost will reduce when the company acquired goodwill to all kinds of customers. Business Plan Over the last five years our organization has seen significant change in technology. While this change has been beneficial to Community College and its employees, we have reached a point where we are challenged with the new features and functions of the College's standard software. In order for our employees to continue to serve student needs effectively and efficiently the Technology Training Project has been created.This project will create technology training sessions to allow for increased technology understanding and to grow employee confidence. Upon completion, this project will provide for a foundation that will allow our organization to address the probable changes in future technology. TRAINING STRATEGY All employees will have access to technology training opportunities.The Training Department will provide technology training through the following modes of delivery: Face to face sessions Online via the portal Downloaded material In order to provide these training opportuniti es the following resources are required: Training opportunities to keep the College trainer / Seems current Current and up to ate handout materials Access to current hardware and software technologies The following is a list of assumption and constraints for the Training & Development Business Plan. Please note that this list may be modified as the project and planning move forward.Assumptions: All employees have the minimum technology skills as defined by Human Resources All employees have access to the current technology in the form of software and hardware required by their position All employees are encouraged and allowed to articulate in training opportunities This project has the full support of all executive leadership Constraints Attendance will be dependent on employee schedules All new employees must attend new employee orientation modules All equipment and software must be compatible with current technology DELIVERABLES Sessions Method Resources Anticipated Date Technolog y Sneak Peeks* OFF Trainer Cot/Novo/Deck Beginning Innovate Technology Tuesdays Office – Email/Calendar 1 Page Tip Sheet Training Department Novo/Deck Thumb Drives Training Department/Lot Nodded Word 2013: Navigating the File Tab OFF/Videos Late Novo / Early Deck Word 2013: Solving the Mystery of Headers and Sections Word 2013: Understanding Track Changes – not for the Light Hearted Fondles Excel 2013: Using a Table to Filter and Sort Data Excel 2013: Basic Formulas Fondles Outlook 2013: Using Rules and Categories to Organize Outlook Fondles Outlook 2013: What to Expect from the Outlook 365 Interface Endnote 2013: One What? What exactly is Endnote? Core Technology Training Trainer / Book Intermediate Innovate WI Utilize a Workup Site Portal Essentials: Communicating with your Workup via the Portal OFF / VideosPortal Essentials: Create Alerts to Maintain Awareness of Office Happenings OFF / Videos Portal Essentials: Create and Maintain Document Libraries with Custom Vie ws OFF / Portal Essentials: Calendar Management OFF / Videos WI 14 Proper Document Storage Personally Identifiable Information * Will schedule times at departments meetings COMMUNICATION DELIVERABLES The Training Department will communicate training opportunities by utilizing the current approved communication methods: Announcements Workup Listserv Emails Downloaded Flyers Portal Website Department Invitations Sneak Peaks SESSION OUTCOMES Office 2013 – These sessions will provide users with the technical training necessary to: a. Create and modify documents (Word) b. Create and modify reports (Word) c. Create and modify spreadsheets (Excel) d. Create and modify presentations (Powering) e. Create and modify calendar items (Outlook) f. Create and modify emails (Outlook) g. Create and maintain a basic database (Access) h. Navigate the new features in Office 2013 I.Use Endnote to manage and capture information electronically (Endnote) Innovate – these sessions will provide users with the technical training necessary to: . Create basic forms b. Manage a form library c. Edit form library permissions d. Create basic workflow e. Export to Excel How to Utilize a Workup Site – these sessions will provide users with the technical training necessary to: a. Create Announcements b. Create Email Alerts c. Create Document Libraries d. Create Custom views e. Connect Workup Calendar to Outlook ASSESSMENT AND TRACKING The current Training Department Events database will be used for tracking participation. A new participation method will be incorporated when the Sharpening Business Plan BUSINESS PLAN GLOBAL MUSHROOM COMPANY LTD. -â€Å"quality first† MS in Agricultural Economics(Agribusiness and Marketing) MD. TAUHIDUL ISLAM LEVEL-4; SEMESTER-1 ID. NO. : 09 AEAM JD 03M REG. NO. :31636 Group : C DEPT. of AGRIBUSINESS & MARKETING BANGLADESH AGRICULTURAL UNIVERSITY. MYMENSINGH BUSINESS PLAN SECTION 1: THE BUSINESS PROFILE Description of My Business Our product is Mushroom. We will produce, package and set price in our own farm. Targeted Market and Customers Our customers will be different departmental store, hotels and restaurants. Our product is new arrival in Bangladesh and it is highly nutritious. Growth Trends In This Business Yes, the market for our products is growing, because our product has increasing demand to the people, specially to the educated people. Pricing Power The unique qualities of our product are:- -nutritious -nontoxic -it is suitable for all classes of people, especially for diabetic patient and educated people. SECTION 2: THE VISION AND THE PEOPLE We are passionately committed of our new business to provide highly qualified mushroom to all classes of people specially for highly educated people. THE PEOPLE Work Experience Related to My Intended Business We got training from reputed mushroom cultivation training centre. Again we will appoint a mushroom cultivation specialist. Personal Background and Education Credentials We are expected to complete graduation this year from Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh . SECTION 3: COMMUNICATIONS Computer and Communications Tools Resource Requirements: Communications -Telephone/ mobile phone Tk. 10000/year -Advertisement Tk. 80000/year -Leaflet Tk. 5000/year -Internet Tk. 14000/year Telephones Telephone/mobile phone Tk. 10000/year Computers One computer and one printer Tk. 25,000 Computer accessories Tk. 5000 Internet Internet Tk. 14,000/year SECTION 4: ORGANIZATION Business Organization We want to form a JOINTSTOCK business organization. It is our intention to grow our company into a large farm throughout the country. Professional Consultants I feel it is important that my team of professional advisors be in place before I start in business. Here is a list of these professionals: 1. Lawyer-A. T. M. Golam Hossain 2. Accountant: Rakibul Hasan 3. Insurance Agent: Real Insurance Company 4 . Banker: Abdul Bari 5. Trainer: Aktaruzzaman Licenses 1. Trade license SECTION 5: LICENSES, PERMITS AND BUSINESS NAMES Due Diligence Procedures for Licenses, Permits and Business Names: Licenses: State: Trade license Slogan: Indicate your slogan intentions if any exist Our slogan is â€Å"quality first†. SECTION 6: INSURANCE Insurance (Session 6): List the form of insurance coverage including cost are anticipated. We plan to use the services of Real Insurance Company, as our insurance agent. SECTION 7: PREMISES Location Criteria †¢space requirements : 71 decimal †¢future requirements : 33 decimal SECTION 8: ACCOUNTING AND CASH FLOW Accounting COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF BALANCE SHEET Particulars Year20082009201020112012 Assets: Cash 50,000 60,000 75,000 90,000 1,00,000 Land3,22,7274,02,7274,82,7275,67,2725,67,272 Building(office room , store house & warehouse)4,00,0003,95,0003,90,0003,85,0003,80,000 Less: depreciation5,0005,0005,0005,0005,000 3,95,0003,90,0003,85,0003,80,0003,75,000 Computer , printer30,00028,00026,00024,00022,000 Less: depreciation2,0002,0002,0002,0002,000 28,00026,00024,00022,00020,000 Hut4,62,9905,78,7376,94,4846,94,4846,94,484 Equipment(rack & sprayer)65,20080,20097,80085,80073,800 Less: depreciation8,0009,50012,00012,00012,000 57,20070,70085,80073,80061,800 Vehicles(car & van)2,10,0001,99,0001,88,0001,77,0001,66,000 Less: depreciation11,00011,00011,00011,00011,000 1,99,0001,88,0001,77,0001,66,0001,55,000 Value of life insurance20,00020,00020,00020,00020,000 Raw materials inventories2,400,00030,00,00036,00,00039,60,00043,20,000 Supplies1,00,0001,20,0001,50,0001,80,0002,00,000 Total Assets40,34,91748,56,16456,94,01161,53,55665,13,556 Liabilities and Owners equity Liabilities : Bank loan20,00,00020,00,00015,00,00010,00,0008,00,000 Accounts payable1,00,9172,56,1646,94,0116,53,55611,13,556 Owners equity15,00,00020,00,00025,00,00030,00,00030,00,000 Retain earning4,34,0006,00,00010,00,00015,00,00016,00,000 Total Liabilities and Owners Equity40,34,91748,56,16456,94,01161,53,55665,13,556 Particulars Year20082009201020112012 Revenue: Gross sales48,00,00063,00,0007920,0008640,0009180,000 Less: sales return and allowance1,00,0002,00,000100,00025,00025,000 Net sales47,00,00061,00,0007820,0008615,0009155,000 Cost of goods sold: Inventory01,00,000200,000250,000250,000 Purchase24,00,00030,00,0003600,0003960,0004320,000 Less: purchase return 50,00075,00080,000100,000100,000 Net cost purchase2350,0002925,0003520,000386,0004220,000 Cost of goods available for sale 2350,0003025,0003720,0004110,0004470,000 Less: inventory1,00,000200,000250,000250,000250,000 Cost of goods sold22,50,0002825,0003470,0003860,0004220,000 Gross margin24,50,0003275,0004350,0004755,0004935,000 Operating expenses:, Advertisement cost80,000150,000100,00050,00025,000 Payroll4,68,000500,000560,000600,000600,000 Expense in license9,000 Transportation expenses1,50,000180,000280,000330,000330,000 Repairing and maintenance cost50,00060,00070,00070,00070,000 Insurance (fire)20,00020,00020,00020,00020,000 Telephone and internet24,00030,00035,00035,00035,000 Other expenses13,60020,00025,00050,00050,000 Cumulative depreciation27,50027,50030,00030,00030,000 Total operating expenses8,42,100987,5001120,0001185,0001160,000 Net earnings16,07,9002287,5003230,0003570,0003775,000 Less :interest expense2,40,000240,000180,000120,00096,000 Net profit / loss13,67,9002047,5003049,9703450,0003679,000 Growth(profit/sales*100)29. 1%33. 57%39%40. 05%40. 19% COMPAR ATIVE ANALYSIS OF INCOME STATEMENT Cash Flow Planning Checklist (Tk. /year) operating expenses: Advertisement cost80,000 Payroll468,000 Expense in license9,000 Transportation expenses150,000 Repairing and maintenance cost50,000 Insurance (fire)20,000/ Telephone and internet24,000 Other expenses13,600 Cumulative depreciation27,500 Total operating expenses 842,100 Capital investment1500000 Estimated sales4800000 Analysis of Costs Fixed costs: Land, building, equipment, hut, computer, depreciation, managers salaries, insurance, license cost, interest expense and vehicles. Variable costs: labor cost, Straw, Spawn, formalin, repair and maintenance cost and advertisement cost. Product cost: Straw, Spawn, formalin packaging and formalin. Delivery cost: Fuel, vehicles and drivers’ salaries . Internal Controls We will always supervise the overall activities in strong hand. If we get any dishonesty or carelessness in any kinds of business activities then we take necessary steps for controlling them properly. We will give rewards and incentives for appreciating the good works and punishments for skulking. We will keep record of every transaction and also we will try to ensure friendly environment for all employees in the company. SECTION 10: E-COMMERCE E-Commerce Plans We plan to build and install a registered website name www. glbmashroom. com . This site will contain attractive advertisement on our product. Buyers will get update information and they can merchandise via this website. E-Commerce Budgeting 1. Rent for domain – Tk. 1,000/year E-Commerce Competition We will provide more discount comparatively our best competitors. We will send our e-mail to our expected buyers containing our product advertisement. SECTION 11: ACQUISITIONS Due Diligence Procedures for Acquisitions # Our consulting team: Lawyer, accountant, banker, trainer, etc. # How we plan to authenticate- By providing sales receipt. # Sellers records to be inspected: Financial statements, sales backlog, cash deposit records, utility bills, accounts payable and receivable, financial comparisons of similar businesses, etc. # Appraisals, as appropriate. Yes. # Market conditions. Oligopoly market. # Value of goodwill exists. # Method of purchase: stock, assets, etc SECTION 12: MARKETING Marketing Plan We will personally contact with the buyers. We give fresh styling, quality product price incentive to them. We provide the transport facilities and arrange Mushroom food product festival every year to create more concentration of buyers. Advertising and Promotion Plans Plans Budget(Tk. /year) Internet 10,000 Television 40,000 Newspaper 20,000 Poster 5,000 leaflet 5,000 Training Policies We will hire a honest, skill and smart trainer for increasing the efficiency of our sales manager for specific period of time. The Competition BRAC is our strongest competitor, because they have -large overhead structure -large amount of capital -strong brand recognition But we intend to compete with the BRAC by the following ways- -attractive packaging price incentive -Mushroom food product festival -quality maintain -advertising -transportation facilities. How I Plan to Take Advantage of Competitors Weak Points The shortcomings of our competitors are as follows -slow motive to change product quality -price of product relatively higher than us -insufficient supply We plan to overcome their leadership with fresh new designs, artwork packaging and to provide at a lower price. SECTION 13: GROWTH PROGRAM Expansion Sources of financing :B ank and own capital Cash flow: Mushroom sale(cash inflow) Input purchase(cash outflow) Benefit package and policies: Those who are regular customer we sell the product to them at a lower price and sometime we will offer discount for product. Handling Major Problems Adverse conditions Response 1. Reduction in sales -sales promotion 2. Fall in price -reduce supply 3. Rise in input price -increase in output price How and where we reduce costs- -In advertising(in case of leaflet and postering ) -transportation cost will reduce when the company acquired goodwill to all kinds of customers. Business Plan Over the last five years our organization has seen significant change in technology. While this change has been beneficial to Community College and its employees, we have reached a point where we are challenged with the new features and functions of the College's standard software. In order for our employees to continue to serve student needs effectively and efficiently the Technology Training Project has been created.This project will create technology training sessions to allow for increased technology understanding and to grow employee confidence. Upon completion, this project will provide for a foundation that will allow our organization to address the probable changes in future technology. TRAINING STRATEGY All employees will have access to technology training opportunities.The Training Department will provide technology training through the following modes of delivery: Face to face sessions Online via the portal Downloaded material In order to provide these training opportuniti es the following resources are required: Training opportunities to keep the College trainer / Seems current Current and up to ate handout materials Access to current hardware and software technologies The following is a list of assumption and constraints for the Training & Development Business Plan. Please note that this list may be modified as the project and planning move forward.Assumptions: All employees have the minimum technology skills as defined by Human Resources All employees have access to the current technology in the form of software and hardware required by their position All employees are encouraged and allowed to articulate in training opportunities This project has the full support of all executive leadership Constraints Attendance will be dependent on employee schedules All new employees must attend new employee orientation modules All equipment and software must be compatible with current technology DELIVERABLES Sessions Method Resources Anticipated Date Technolog y Sneak Peeks* OFF Trainer Cot/Novo/Deck Beginning Innovate Technology Tuesdays Office – Email/Calendar 1 Page Tip Sheet Training Department Novo/Deck Thumb Drives Training Department/Lot Nodded Word 2013: Navigating the File Tab OFF/Videos Late Novo / Early Deck Word 2013: Solving the Mystery of Headers and Sections Word 2013: Understanding Track Changes – not for the Light Hearted Fondles Excel 2013: Using a Table to Filter and Sort Data Excel 2013: Basic Formulas Fondles Outlook 2013: Using Rules and Categories to Organize Outlook Fondles Outlook 2013: What to Expect from the Outlook 365 Interface Endnote 2013: One What? What exactly is Endnote? Core Technology Training Trainer / Book Intermediate Innovate WI Utilize a Workup Site Portal Essentials: Communicating with your Workup via the Portal OFF / VideosPortal Essentials: Create Alerts to Maintain Awareness of Office Happenings OFF / Videos Portal Essentials: Create and Maintain Document Libraries with Custom Vie ws OFF / Portal Essentials: Calendar Management OFF / Videos WI 14 Proper Document Storage Personally Identifiable Information * Will schedule times at departments meetings COMMUNICATION DELIVERABLES The Training Department will communicate training opportunities by utilizing the current approved communication methods: Announcements Workup Listserv Emails Downloaded Flyers Portal Website Department Invitations Sneak Peaks SESSION OUTCOMES Office 2013 – These sessions will provide users with the technical training necessary to: a. Create and modify documents (Word) b. Create and modify reports (Word) c. Create and modify spreadsheets (Excel) d. Create and modify presentations (Powering) e. Create and modify calendar items (Outlook) f. Create and modify emails (Outlook) g. Create and maintain a basic database (Access) h. Navigate the new features in Office 2013 I.Use Endnote to manage and capture information electronically (Endnote) Innovate – these sessions will provide users with the technical training necessary to: . Create basic forms b. Manage a form library c. Edit form library permissions d. Create basic workflow e. Export to Excel How to Utilize a Workup Site – these sessions will provide users with the technical training necessary to: a. Create Announcements b. Create Email Alerts c. Create Document Libraries d. Create Custom views e. Connect Workup Calendar to Outlook ASSESSMENT AND TRACKING The current Training Department Events database will be used for tracking participation. A new participation method will be incorporated when the Sharpening Business Plan The main reason to have the clothing business on Commerce is because it has the biggest potential to give a free rein to enormous savings and business efficiencies. However the practicalities remain indefinable. The commerce focus the way to handle the change in the global planning and purchasing of transport as well as it contribute to the supply chain as logistics. The key activator to E-business is defined as logistics. Well there comes a question how benefits are enabled to ensure individual logistics and transport companies or will it perish in the revolution of E- commerce.E-commerce is the electronic business. Though which clothing business can enter to the power of computers, the internet and shared software to deliver and et product specifications and drawings, buying orders and receipts, bids, and other they of information related to data that is required to be conversed to suppliers, the public, employees and most importantly with customers. Below written is the SOOT analy sis of Men and Women Clothing business at Jersey Shore Boardwalk (Edutainment, 2002).SOOT Analysts: Strength: 0 The huge advantage of the E-commerce clothing store will be Global location I. E. Boundary less 0 There will be no time constraints to it. 0 Biggest benefit is price and product comparison can be made easily. 0 It will be cost effective for the clothing store. 0 The clothing store can easily direct communicate with consumer and can improved customer interaction. Moreover an E-commerce site will allow the clothing store to have flexible target market segmentation. It will be simple and easier to exchange of details and information.You will have a lower transaction cost and not only this you can easily do arrangement of products. 0 Customers can experience faster buying procedure 0 Company don't require to have a physical set up 0 Transactions are made easily. 0 Availability of Niche products Furthermore an advantage of low operating cost. Weakness: 0 Security is a big conce rn for every customer if they are buying online for verification of their personal information like credit card and other related secured information. 0 There a chance of fake websites similar to our open and used our name. Chances of fraud 0 Customers have fewer discounts offered and no chance of bargaining is available. 0 It might take long delivery timing. 0 If the quality is not maintained by the company related to the physical condition of the clothing products will become the biggest disadvantage for the company. If you are selling limited products in the clothing category or limited styles might 0 Might have a more shipping cost. 0 Customers get limited exposure and you get limited excess to advertising. 0 Hard to fulfill customer's satisfaction (Swags & Simian, 2012).For tax issues and purposes a verified address and identity of the location is necessary. International tax laws may hurdle against certain encountered references with legal issues and problems related to the te chnology. 0 There is a big hurdle in making the 4. Thoroughly described 2 online crimes prevalent in e-commerce and what you would do to prevent these crimes. 1. Credit cards frauds These are the biggest of all crimes going around the e-commerce business. Preventive majors: 0 Using address verification system in order to prevent credit card fraud. Verify about any anonymous or suspicious email. 0 Need to know the purchaser IP address to follow up if any fraud is involved in the transaction. 0 Keep interaction with the customer and verify customer billing address and bank details related to the customer. 2. Blocking and Censorship: 0 Filters should be added to your website in order to stop blocking access to control it. 0 Security needs to be more effective in order to provide protection to the customers. It is very important that an e-commerce website should comply with the policy related to censorship and blocking to be followed accordingly.

The Political, Social, and Personal Implications of Democracy Term Paper

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Human Resource Management Analysis Questions on Movie "Office Space" (1999) - Essay Example Instead of the company investigating their problems, it hires consultants Bob Porter and Bob Slydell to downsize its workforce. Tom Smykowski among other employees like Samir, Milton and others, suffer humiliations, indignities and now the downsizing threat. The HR could have undertaken a job evaluation or performance assessment so to determine the source of employees’ fatigue, their lack of motivation so as to improve their efficiency. Employee engagement is vital since it improves employee’s enthusiasm in the workplace (Dgj 2015). Lawrence withdrawal is illegal and unethical because it downgrades the work ethics. Since he was a displeased employee, he could have reached out to the HR and laid out his grievances for a mutual consultation. The work ethics stipulate the relevant procedures and channels of raising job grievances. He could also have utilized the Ombudsman or Labor Union for interventions (Dgj 2015). The consultants, Bobs; could have been the last resort of solving the inefficiency issues. The company suffers dysfunctional organizational culture and lack of effective employee development measures. The management employs autocratic leadership leading to disengagement of the employees (Dgj 2015). It also lacks employee development strategies to enhance their capabilities and motivational levels. Under the Contract Law, the company could sue Peter for Breach of Contract and lack of Due Diligence. Peter having signed the Contract of Employment at inception was bound to uphold the Company’s terms and condition of service which trickled to Breach of Contract. His absenteeism and work misbehaviors contributed to lack of care and conscientiousness which he could face lack of Due Diligence (Dgj 2015). The consultants abused their work ethics in a big way. First of all, they applauded Peter Gibbons misbehaviors like absconding work, coming late and neglecting the company’s dress code. Additionally, Milton relocation to the

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Testing (HRM) - Essay Example To be effective in meeting long term objectives of the organization, human resource system must fulfil at least two needs of organizational objectives: (1) accurate forecasting the human resource requirements and (2) providing management with the tools and knowledge for sound personnel decisions. These two decisions serve as the foundation of the selection process that defines and measures the potential of the job candidate. Appropriate selection process saves the organization from severe damage that can be done to the careers of individuals and to the organization's human resource by procedures if classified individuals inappropriately. The labels attached to employees as a result of such procedures often dog their footsteps throughout their work life with the organization. It is not uncommon for supposedly infallible 'high potentials' to find that they cannot perform effectively in a different functional department or in positions with increased responsibility. It is in such failure-prone situations that work 'burnout' begins to appear and, depending on the organization's human resource policy, the afflicted individual may either be given extended leave and advice to seek help, put out to pasture in some non-sensitive position, or ruthlessly severed from the payroll. Just as bad, and more difficult to document, is the number of 'low potentials' who are never given the opportunity to try out for other positions (Baehr, 1992, p. 7). The sad results of the procedures are the flawed careers of individuals and the irresponsible expenditure of the organization's human resource. The Testing Process The testing process allows the organization to measure the standards of the individual as an employee so that his personal organizational practices at time of recruiting and selection inform the organization about his professional and behavioural capabilities. These effects generalize from the specific practices to a wide range of perceptions and work-related attitudes. For example, applicants form impressions upon the organization of general personnel practices, anticipated treatment by the supervisor, expected interactions with peers and perceptions of the organization climate. The results show clear conflicts between the organization's interest in obtaining valid information and attracting the individual versus the individual's interest in gathering information for his or her own decision-making process. Nevo (1989) has analyzed three solid reasons for gathering information from examinees about their reactions to testing procedures. First, it is in the moral rights of the examinees to be given a chance to express their opinions, secondly it is practically in their interest to be useful to find out what they think and, theoretically, it is interesting to learn about examinee's reactions from psychological point of view (Schuler et al, 1993, p. 65). Physical Ability Tests Physical ability tests provide us the means and measures to evaluate the physical abilities of an individual in context with the physical ability required to perform a particular job. An example is that of an employer who want to evaluate

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Environmental Studies - Essay Example We shall look at the influences that science has made in the energy sector, climate change and agriculture among others. In the scientific world, agriculture is a more recent human activity that humans experimented. Human beings were originally hunters and gatherers who survived by killing wild animals in the jungle. Then agriculture was accidentally discovered through man’s scientific exploration. Man began cultivating land in order to get food. Studies have shown that hunters and gatherers were more healthy, well nourished than the latter farmers. In fact, agriculture did not improve the lives of humans and the skeletal evidence revealed that hunters and gatherers were healthier than the farmers were. Agriculture needed vast amounts of land for cultivation, and this led to the destruction of forests and animal’s natural habitat. The energy threshold of plants then decreased as most natural vegetation was destroyed and cleared to make way for cultivation. This interfer ed with the natural energy cycle since animals get energy from plants, which in turn obtain the necessary energy from the sun for photosynthesis. Most of the percentage of the world’s energy relies on plants. If plants are destroyed, the energy needed by most organisms is decreased, and this can have devastating effects. This causes animals to face extinction as the energy cycle is affected by man’s activity, which in this case is agriculture, a scientific invention. Therefore, there is evidence that as much as science has helped the environment, it also hurts the same environment by altering nature’s normal activities (Rees, web). The clearing of natural vegetation gives way to soil erosion. In today’s world, oil is the only form of energy that humans have resulted to use. It is interestingly hilarious that man secures oil more than food. This is because energy is vital for most activities and oil is the usual form of energy used to meet the demands of m an. Research in America has shown that for every 2.3 calories of food energy produced there is a calorie of fossil energy used (Manning, web). This is devastating to the human life because as more oil is used to produce food energy that is required by a growing population, levels of pollution in the environment continue to increase. All this is attributed to science inventions among other factors such as population growth and industrialization. The more industrialized we get, the more scientific inventions are discovered which continue to damage the environment in an attempt to meet the needs of man. In the 20th century, engine fueled cars dominated the roads which made transportation and communication easy. However, these advancements usually have a negative impact on the environment. For example, the greenhouse effect is caused by emission of gases into the atmosphere, which comes from combustion of fossil fuels and oil. Scientific advancements in chemistry have also had a profoun d effect on man (Griffith, web). For example, in the cultivation of wheat in leading countries, fertilizers containing nitrogenous compounds are used to speed up the growth and maturity of wheat. However, studies show that these chemical compounds have adverse effects on human health. A research carried out showed that a child born in rural places producing wheat based on nitrogenous chemicals has high chances of suffering birth related defects compared to a child born where wheat is not

Interference Colors Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Interference Colors - Essay Example Interference colors are thus an effect that emanates because different substances have different index of reflection (Ulery, & Drees 185). Birefringence is the variation in the indices of reflection. Interference colors can be understood by utilizing color charts that are contained in most of the course readings. If the thickness of an area is known, then the birefringence can be determined from the interference color. Most extreme birefringence can be analytic of a mineral when utilized with different properties. If the thin segment contains a known mineral, with a confined scope of birefringence, then the interference color can be utilized to focus the thickness of the segment (Haldar, & Josip 50). Standard slender areas are 30 microns thick. Meager segments thicker than 30 microns will deliver higher interference colors. Interference colors rehash. Nevertheless, high order colors can be recognized from lower order ones by watching the margins between gemstones or those crystals at the edges of the minor segment. These zones of a thin area are frequently more slender and will demonstrate an arrangement of lower inter ference

Accreditation and Private Prisons Essay Example for Free

Accreditation and Private Prisons Essay According to the American Correctional Association website, accreditation can be define as â€Å"a system of verification that correctional agencies/facilities comply with national standards promulgated by the American Correctional Association† (â€Å"Standards Accreditation†, n. d.). In order to achieve accreditation, it must go through reviews, appraisals, analysis, and hearings first. For a correctional agency to be accepted for accreditation, they at least must have one of the following: â€Å"pretrial or presented adult or juveniles; convicted adults or juveniles adjudicated delinquent; and/or adult or juvenile offenders sentenced to community supervision† (â€Å"Standards Accreditation†, n.d.). There are many advantages and benefits of accreditation. The benefits have shown assessments of facilities’ strength and weaknesses, shown goals obtained, implantation of policies and procedures, established specific guidelines for everyday procedure, â€Å"aid in the defense of frivolous lawsuits, and increase of community support and a higher level of staff professionalism and morale† (â€Å"Standards Accreditation†, n.d.). See more: Strategic Management Process Essay At ACA, they believe accreditation can enhance staff and development training. While though accreditation, there will be transcribe policies and agendas to help designate a training and staff development. The program will be for all levels of personnel. Employees’ experiences will automatically grow throughout all the training related to their job-related positions. They will receive current job-related training in relation to position requirements, new theories, current correctional issues, techniques and technologies. With the professional trainings, correctional officers will work toward compliance with standards which represent a professional practice. After all their hard work through the training, they will take pride in their professionalism. Through the ACA and the accreditation process, corrections has become more respected as a profession. They apply evidence-based practices which provide safe, secure, and humane conditions of confinement for over the millions of prisoners confined in this country. There are many valuable insights the Association provides about criminal justice and correctional policies to legislatures and government officials (Hamden, 2006-2013). Privatization are private sector prison used to hold prisoners. It is one of the solution used to solve the overcrowding of prisoners. With private prisons, it can help reduce the cost of incarcerating prisoners in an overcrowding prison (Joel, 2013). During the past couple of decades, prison population has increase. To solve this problem, it would require higher taxes on the people to build more prisons. The people responded by refusing to pay higher taxes to the government to build more prisons. Unable to solve the overcrowding of prison, a solution occurred to build private prisons to decrease overcrowding prisons. During the mid-1980s, private business interests saw the overcrowding prison as a profit and a way to expand their businesses. Corrections Corporation of America, the first modern private business was the first to emerge and established itself in 1984. The contract for the facility in Hamilton County, Tennessee was awarded to Corrections Corporation of America (CCA). It was the first time any government in the country to ever contract the entire jail operation to a private operator (Smith, 1996-2013). Privatization of prisons is thought to be more cost-effective and more efficient than public prisons (Smith, 1996-2013). Through some research to doubt on these claims, evidence show private prisons did not live up to its expectations. Research showed private prisons were no different from public prisons. In private prisons, lower staff and training may likely increase incidents of violence and escapes. With a nationwide study conducted, assaults on prison guards by inmates occur more frequently than in government-run prisons (Smith, 1996-2013). The study also show inmates assaulting other inmates occurred more often in private prisons. Concerning private vs. public prisons, there is no comparison between the two. Private prisons does not exactly help reduce the cost in public prisons. With few staffing and increase of proper training, it is likely to have more problems in private prisons than public prisons.

Motor Cyclists Essay Example for Free

Motor Cyclists Essay Psychological and social factors influencing motorcycle rider intentions and behaviour Barry Watson Deborah Tunnicliff Katy White Cynthia Schonfeld Darren Wishart Centre for Accident Research and Road Safety (CARRS-Q) Queensland University of Technology August 2007 Psychological and social factors influencing motorcycle rider intentions and behaviour i Published by: Postal address: Office location: Telephone: Facsimile: E-mail: Internet: Australian Transport Safety Bureau PO Box 967, Civic Square ACT 2608 15 Mort Street, Canberra City, Australian Capital Territory 1800 621 372; from overseas + 61 2 6274 6440 02 6274 3117; from overseas + 61 2 6274 3117 [emailprotected] gov. au www. atsb. gov. au  © CARRS-Q, Queensland University of Technology 2006 To encourage the dissemination of this publication, it may be copied, downloaded, displayed, printed, reproduced, and distributed in unaltered form (retaining this notice). Subject to the provisions of the Copyright Act 1968, no other use of the material in this publication may be made without the authorisation of the Queensland University of Technology. ii Psychological and social factors influencing motorcycle rider intentions and behaviour DOCUMENT RETRIEVAL INFORMATION Report No. RSRG 2007-04 Publication date August 2007 No. of pages 152 ISBN 978 0 642 25564 8 ISSN Publication title Psychological and social factors influencing motorcycle rider intentions and behaviour Author(s) Barry Watson, Deborah Tunnicliff, Katy White, Cynthia Schonfeld, Darren Wishart. Organisation that prepared this document Centre for Accident Research and Road Safety Queensland University of Technology GPO Box 2434 Brisbane QLD 4001. Sponsor [Available from] Australian Transport Safety Bureau PO Box 967, Civic Square ACT 2608 Australia www. atsb. gov. au Project Officer John Collis Reference No. Aug2007/DOTARS 50323. Abstract This report documents two studies undertaken to identify and assess the psychological and social factors influencing motorcycle rider behaviour. The primary aim of the research was to develop a Rider Risk Assessment Measure (RRAM), which would act as a tool for identifying high-risk riders by assessing rider intentions and self-reported behaviour. The first study (n = 47) involved a qualitative exploration of rider perceptions utilising a focus-group methodology. This study identified six key aspects of rider behaviour considered to influence safety: motorcycle handling skills; rider awareness; riding while impaired or not; and the tendency to bend road rules, push limits, and ride at extreme speeds or perform stunts. Study two (n = 229) was survey-based and examined the psychological and social factors influencing these behaviours, utilising the theory of planned behaviour (TPB) and other relevant psychological constructs, such as sensation seeking and aggression. This study indicated that risky rider intentions were primarily influenced by attitudes and sensation seeking, while safer intentions were influenced by perceived behavioural control. While intentions significantly predicted all six types of behaviour, sensation seeking and a propensity for aggression emerged as significant predictors, particularly for the volitional risk-taking behaviours. The measures of intention and behaviour comprising the RRAM were not found to be significantly correlated with self-reported crash involvement, possibly indicating shortcomings in the measurement of crashes. However, significant correlations were found between the components of the RRAM and self-reported traffic offence involvement. While further work is required to refine and validate the RRAM, it represents a potential tool for informing and evaluating motorcycle rider safety countermeasures. Keywords Motorcycle safety, theory of planned behaviour, sensation seeking, aggression Notes (1) (2) ATSB reports are disseminated in the interest of information exchange. The views expressed are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent those of the Australian Government or the ATSB. Psychological and social factors influencing motorcycle rider intentions and behaviour iii CONTENTS Executive summary EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Background Motorcycle riding is rapidly increasing in popularity in Australia, attracting a much wider demographic of people than in decades past. Unfortunately, whilst the overall number of road deaths in Australia has generally been reducing, the proportion of motorcycle-related fatalities has been rising in recent years. Further, the proportion of motorcycle-related fatalities in Australia is unacceptably high compared with other OECD countries. To reduce motorcycle-related fatalities on Australian roads, there is an urgent need to consider motorcyclists as distinct from other road users. This program of research facilitates the understanding of safety issues from a motorcyclist perspective and provides important information on factors influencing safe and unsafe rider intentions and behaviour. The aims of this program of research were to: †¢ develop a better understanding of the psychological and social influences on rider behaviour in an Australian context; †¢ guide the development of future motorcycle safety countermeasures; and †¢ develop a tool (the Rider Risk Assessment Measure – RRAM) to inform the evaluation of motorcycle safety countermeasures, particularly in the area of training and education. To achieve these aims, two particular studies were undertaken: a qualitative study of motorcycle rider perceptions utilising a focus-group methodology and a survey-based quantitative study of selfreported rider intentions and behaviour. Both studies were underpinned by a theoretical framework drawing on the theory of planned behaviour (TPB), identity theory, social identity theory, and other relevant psychological concepts such as sensation seeking and aggression. Key findings Study 1 explored motorcyclists’ perceptions relating to ‘safe’ and ‘risky’ riding and the different personal and social factors that influenced their behaviour. A total of 43 people participated in this study, either as part of a focus group or as an interviewee. This exploratory process revealed six types of behaviours which were commonly believed to influence the safety (or riskiness) of motorcycle riding. These six behaviours are discussed below. Two behaviours were identified as being particularly essential to rider safety. The first was the necessity of being able to handle the motorcycle proficiently and skilfully. The second related to the need for riders to maintain a high level of concentration whilst riding and to stay aware of the changing road environment. In contrast, there was some debate about the inherent safety or riskiness of the two next behaviours commonly identified. Firstly, some riders believed that obeying the road rules was essential to their safety, whilst others reported that it was often necessary to break the road rules in order to stay safe. Secondly, the definition of what constituted ‘riding whilst impaired’ differed amongst riders. Most riders agreed that ‘drinking and riding’ was dangerous. However, for some, even one alcoholic drink before riding was considered dangerous, whilst others would ride after drinking provided they did not consider themselves to be over the legal BAC limit. Some riders stated that riding when viii Psychological and social factors influencing motorcycle rider intentions and behaviour they were tired was dangerous; however, fatigue was not considered a serious safety issue for many participants. Two further behaviours identified by participants were often associated with their accounts of crash involvement, yet not seen as intrinsically ‘unsafe’ by most riders. The first of these was the concept of ‘pushing your limits’. Most riders interviewed appeared to enjoy pushing the limits of their ability on a motorcycle. Whilst agreeing that pushing the limits too far was dangerous, pushing them to a point that tested a rider’s abilities was often reported to facilitate safety as this process developed a rider’s skill. The second behaviour that was often mentioned in connection with crashes was extreme riding (e. g. , performing stunts and riding at extreme speeds). The act of perfecting a stunt was often reported to result in the crashing of the motorcycle, although these crashes were usually accepted as a normal part of the learning process. Once perfected, performing stunts did not appear to be considered an intrinsically unsafe behaviour, unless performed in traffic or other unpredictable situations. A sizable minority of both male and female participants reported riding at extreme speeds. These riders often argued that they could ride extremely fast, safely, on public roads provided certain conditions were met (e. g. good visibility, minimal traffic, weather, road, and motorcycle maintenance). Study 2 involved 229 active motorcyclists who completed a questionnaire assessing: their riding intentions and self-reported behaviour; the psychological and social factors influencing these intentions and behaviour; and their self-reported involvement in road crashes and traffic offences over the last two years. The questionnaire was structured around the six types of rider behaviour identified as important in Study 1. Key results of this study are discussed below. In order to obtain an insight into the factors underpinning both ‘safe’ and ‘risky’ behaviour, the six areas of interest were operationalised as three ‘safer’ behavioural intentions (i. e. handle the motorcycle skilfully, maintain 100% awareness, not ride impaired) and three ‘riskier’ intentions which represented more volitional risk-taking (i. e. bend the road rules, push the limits, perform stunts or ride at extreme speeds). Hierarchical multiple regression analyses were then performed to assess the influence of different psychological and social factors on these intentions. These analyses indicated that a greater proportion of variance could be explained in the case of the riskier riding intentions [R2 ranging from 57% – 66%] than the safer riding intentions [R2 ranging from 22% – 36%]. The TPB construct of perceived behavioural control (PBC) significantly predicted all three ‘safer’ intentions, while attitude was a significant predictor of the three riskier intentions. In terms of the social influences, the TPB construct of subjective norm (which assesses the influence of others considered important) proved a relatively weak predictor of behaviour. However, the measure of specific subjective norm (i. e. the influence of the people that someone rides with) emerged as a significant predictor of three of the six intentions. Over and above this, a propensity for sensation seeking was found to be significant predictor of the three risky intentions. Overall, a similar pattern of results emerged when the self-reported behaviours of the participants were examined. Firstly, while the various psychological and social variables examined in the study significantly predicted all six behaviours, considerably larger amounts of variance were explained for the three volitional risk-taking behaviours, i. e. bend road rules to get through traffic [R2 = . 67], push my limits [R2 = . 59] and perform stunts and/or ride at extreme speeds [R2 = . 69]. Secondly, the results were largely consistent with the tenets of the TPB, with intentions proving a significant predictor of all six behaviours. Thirdly, sensation seeking, along with rider aggression, emerged as a strong predictor of all six behaviours. Indeed, together, these two variables accounted for between 7 – 20% of additional variance in the six behaviours. Not surprisingly, these two variables accounted for relatively large amounts of additional variance in the ride while impaired [R2 ch = . 20] and the perform stunts and/or ride at extreme speeds [R2 ch = . 15] variables. Unfortunately, no significant correlations were found between the various measures of intention and behaviour operationalised in Study 2 and the self-reported crash involvement of the participants. It Psychological and social factors influencing motorcycle rider intentions and behaviour ix is possible that this indicates that the six behaviours of interest, in reality, do not have a close relationship with crash involvement. However, this conclusion does not seem consistent with either the findings of Study 1 or the research evidence reviewed in Chapter 2. More likely, the findings highlight shortcomings in the size of the sample and/or the way that crash involvement was measured in the study. In particular, given that crashes are relatively rare events, crashes were measured over a two year period in order to ensure that (some) participants would have experienced a sufficient number of crashes to facilitate the analyses. However, this raises the possibility of recall problems that may have reduced the accuracy and reliability of the data, while the two year period may have been too long to accurately reflect the current intentions and behaviour of the participants. In contrast, the majority of the intention and behaviour measures were found to be significantly correlated with self-reported traffic offence involvement. In particular, significant associations were found between self-reported traffic offences and the three ‘riskier’ intentions examined in the study (i. e. those relating to more volitional risk-taking, namely, bend the road rules, push my limits and perform stunts and/or ride at extreme speeds). In addition, significant associations were found between traffic offence involvement and five of the six self-reported behaviours examined (the only exception being for awareness errors). These results don’t necessarily confirm the inherent ‘riskiness’ of the behaviours examined, since engaging in an illegal behaviour may not always result in a crash. However, they do provide prima facia evidence supporting the validity of the intention and behaviour measures developed in this study. Strengths and limitations of the research This program of research featured a number of strengths. Firstly, it was firmly grounded in theory; secondly, it utilised both qualitative and quantitative methods to obtain a broad insight into the factors influencing motorcycle rider behaviour; thirdly, the design of the research was informed by input from active motorcyclists; and finally, it adopted a balanced approach to motorcycle safety by examining both safe and risky riding intentions and behaviour. Nonetheless, the program of research also had a number of limitations. Both Studies 1 and 2 consisted of participants primarily recruited from South East Queensland. In addition, the participants were volunteers who were generally older in age. As a result, the samples used in this research may not be representative of Australian motorcyclists in general, but instead reflect a subset of older, primarily recreational, riders. This should be borne in mind when interpreting the results. Furthermore, a number of other potential limitations in the Study 2 questionnaire design emerged during the analysis of the results. These included the way that fatigue was grouped with alcohol and drugs to assess intentions and behaviour relating to riding while impaired and, as noted above, the manner in which crash involvement was measured. Implications of the research At a theoretical level, this program of research has confirmed that the predictive utility of the theory of planned behaviour (TPB) can be substantially improved by the addition of other variables. In particular, this research demonstrated that subjective norm (SN) was a relatively weak predictor of intentions and that the specific subjective norm (SSN) (i.e. assessing the influence of those people that someone rides with) performed relatively better as a measure of social influence. Moreover, both sensation seeking and the propensity to ride aggressively proved significant predictors of all six behaviours examined, over and above the TPB and other social influence variables. The findings relating to sensation seeking are consistent with previous research in the traffic psychology area. x Psychological and social factors influencing motorcycle rider intentions and behaviour. However, the results relating to aggression warrant more attention, since this variable proved a relatively stronger predictor than sensation seeking of the error-based behaviours (i. e. handling errors and awareness errors), the ride while impaired behaviour, and the perform stunts and/or ride at extreme speeds behaviour. This suggests that the propensity to ride aggressively has a broader influence on rider behaviour, which is not limited to the more volitional risk-taking types of behaviours. At a practical level, this program of research has identified a number of ways to enhance current motorcycle safety countermeasures, particularly in the area of rider training and education. Most particularly, it has identified a range of psychological and social influences on rider intentions and behaviour that appear to be beyond the scope of current skills-based approaches to motorcycle training and education. Consequently, further work is required to develop and trial new approaches to rider training and education that more effectively address the attitudinal and motivational influences on riding, both of a personal and social nature. To assist in this process, this research has undertaken the first steps in the development of the Rider Risk Assessment Measure (RRAM). This tool is intended to act as a means of identifying high-risk riders by assessing their intentions and self-reported behaviour (in relation to both ‘safe’ and ‘risky’ riding). While further work is required to refine and validate the RRAM, it represents a tool that can be used in a variety of ways to enhance motorcycle safety countermeasures, including informing the design and content of training programs and evaluating the impact of different  initiatives on rider behaviour. Psychological and social factors influencing motorcycle rider intentions and behaviour xi ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS The authors would like to acknowledge the funding support provided by the Australian Government, through the Australian Transport Safety Bureau’s (ATSB) Road Safety Research Grants Programme. The development and conduct of this study has involved the contribution of a large number of people. While it is difficult to acknowledge all the individuals that have contributed, the authors would like to thank: †¢ †¢ Mr John Collis from the ATSB for his ongoing advice and support; those people who assisted us organise the focus groups, from organisations such as Queensland Transport, Motorcycle Riders Association Queensland, Ulysses, and Q-Ride providers; personnel from the Queensland Police Service, particularly the Logan and Brisbane West Districts, who assisted in the distribution of the pilot and main questionnaires at various motorcycle events; The ongoing support for motorcycle research from Morgan and Wacker Pty Ltd; and the assistance of Morgan Wacker Motorcycle Training Centre, particularly Mr Fred Davies, in the finalisation and distribution of the Study 2 questionnaire.   xii Psychological and social factors influencing motorcycle rider intentions and behaviour GLOSSARY OF TERMS AND ACRONYMS ABS ATSB BAC Australian Bureau of Statistics. Australian Transport Safety Bureau [formerly Federal Office of Road Safety (FORS)]. Blood Alcohol Concentration. In Australia, the legal amount of alcohol that may be present in the blood is 0. 05% if the driver or rider is on an unrestricted licence. It is usually measured either by a police breathalyser or a by a blood test (see also Over the limit). A person who identifies with, and belongs to, an organised outlaw motorcycle club. Club members ride motorcycles and often wear jackets with ‘patches’ which identify the club they belong to (Veno, 2002). A motorcycle enthusiast. May or may not belong to a motorcycle club (Krige, 1995a). Centre for Accident Research and Road Safety Queensland. A study design which collects data on the perceptions or behaviours of subjects at one point in time, as opposed to a longitudinal.