Graduation Speech -- Graduation Speech, Commencement Address

Henry Adams once wrote "A teacher affects eternity; he can never tell where his influence stops." This is so true, every teacher here has taught us much more than the textbook curriculum. Every teacher here tonight has given us students something we will use or remember for the rest of our lives. I really don't think people understand or appreciate the time and effort our teachers have put into us. So tonight I'm not going to give everyone advice on the future, I'm not going to tell you how life is a journey we've just begun, and I'm not going to brag about how great the class of 2006 is. Since we have eight outstanding Valedictorians this year, I'm sure all of those bases are already covered. So instead, I'm going to take a few minutes here to thank some of the teachers and staff that have made a difference in my own life, and by doing so I hope that everybody present tonight will see how important each and every teacher and staff member is at Amos High School. I'd like to start out by thanking Mr. Addington. Not only is he the Clay and Ceramics teacher at AHS, he is the wisest man I know. I have asked him so many questions this year, and he has always helped me figure things out, but instead of letting me be lazy and simply telling me his answers, he asks me the questions and makes me think it out. Mr. Bassett is the smartest man I know. He keeps the entire school district's computer network up and running, he created a computer program that lets kids and parents check their grades from their home computers, as well as another program that he sold to the government. While doing all this, he still made extra time to help me survive his Windows 2000 class since I hadn't taken the required prerequisites and was pretty lost. Mr.... ...already talked about, and the ones that I did not get a change to mention, but I don't have time. Parents and people of the community, please see what great people these teachers are, and remember how much of their lives they give freely to their students. Teachers, whether you know it or not, you have affected each of us so much. The people that I have talked about are only teachers on my own list of important people at Amos High School. Every single student in a cap and gown right now has their own list, every one of you has impacted someone's life, and we will never forget you. Without your time and effort, none of us would be where we are today, and none of us would have been the leaders that we will turn out to be. You have made our experience at Amos High School truly great, and it will be hard to say goodbye, but from the graduating class of 2006, thank you.

How the American government works Essay

In order to understand how the American government works, one must address the questions, who governs and for what purpose. However, the obvious answer may not be the correct one. Many may think that those who govern are the people or perhaps politicians. In actuality, there is no definite individual or particular group who governs. Instead governing is a process, which involves several groups (voters, candidates, parties, executive officials etc) who carry out the policies of the people by bargaining, supporting, and compromising. The purpose of those who govern is to bind society in law. The Constitution provides legitimacy for the government’s purpose, ensuring the rights of the people, as well as, protecting those who are governed from being dominated by those in power. One of the most important components of the American government is democracy. Democracy is relevant to who governs because it shows that one individual does not govern and although â€Å"the people† may elect someone, the process of getting there and the process of staying there involves other institutions that prevent too much power. Democracy involves political participation, voting, and citizen participation. Thus, one can say that every institution or individual governs in various ways and for different purposes. The American government follows Participatory democracy or representative democracy. The president is elected to serve the interests of the people. He represents the will of the majority, just as the title suggests. He is authorized to make decisions, but he alone does not have full control. In an essay concerning civil government, John Locke describes how a government functions. According to him, the only way a government can exist is when the people individually consent to the power of the government under majority rule. In order for a government to exist the people must submit to the government (if not there would be no government). The Constitution provides a similar explanation but not entirely. The Constitution creates a system of separate institutions (or branches) that share powers. The presid ent makes up the executive branch. Those eligible for voting contribute to choosing the president. The Electoral College votes also and chooses the president. The president has certain powers like being commander in chief, making treaties, etc. However, Congress and the Courts (or the legislative and judicial branches) can check his powers. Congress can refuse to pas a bill the president wants, use impeachment powers, refusing to ratify treaties, or passing laws over the president’s veto. The Courts can also check the president by declaring to be unconstitutional. Similarly the Courts can check Congress and vice versa. Each branch uses its power to help pass policies. The question of who governs is not only limited to those who fall into the category of the three branches. Several institutions of influence and monetary dominance take part in the government. Many corporations govern in their own way by funding campaigns. They use their involvement to help carry out policies that perhaps can or will benefit them. Thus, the question of who governs is vague. The Constitution focus on the 3 branches, but governing is not limited to the national government. When addressing the question to what ends or for what purpose one governs, one can say that the purpose of the government is to make decisions and laws, provide for the welfare of the people and ensure their rights. The Bill of Rights is an example of one of the purposes of the government. It states individual rights and liberties. The Constitution gives certain rights to the branches and those rights should be used for the people. Others may argue that those who govern have a special interest. It is human nature to have such instincts. However, this brings us back to the purpose of checks and balances and separation of powers. Governments govern for the majority because they represent these people (this doesn’t mean that they always serve in the best interest of the body politic). Addressing the questions is a difficult task. The answer to the question varies based on ones perspective. However the Constitution enables us to understand what institutions govern and what powers aren’t entitled to those who govern and those who are governed. Bibliography . American Government: Policies and Institutions Houghton Mifflin Company Boston 1998 Excerpts from Dahl’s Who Governs? John Locke’s Essay Concerning Civil Government

Austism and Vaccines Essay - 626 Words

Every year, tens of thousands Americans die from the seasonal flu alone. This alarming statistic is what led the United States government to urge the country to vaccinate themselves, as well as their children every November, when the flu season is fast approaching. Though countless Americans do follow the government’s plea, many others insist that these vaccines distributed every year (as well as other year-long vaccines) contain an abnormally high amount of thimerosal, (a mercury-based chemical in vaccines designed to prevent the growth of bacteria) which could eventually lead to autism. This generation of fear is what has led many concerned parents to refuse to vaccinate their children, who seem to be the most vulnerable to this disease.†¦show more content†¦In a CNN article published just last winter, statistics regarding autism gave advocate groups against vaccines something to think about. As Dr. Sanjay Gupta, chief medical correspondent, states in the article, à ¢â‚¬Å"They [researchers] reasoned that if mercury exposure in vaccines was a major cause of autism, the number of affected kids should have dropped after thimerosal was removed.† However, after manufacturers halted the major use of thimerosal in vaccines in 1999, the researchers’ theory did not prove to be correct. In fact, from 2004 to 2007, the rate of autism in California raised from 3 per 1,000 children to 4 per 1,000 children. Doesn’t this show skeptic Americans anything? If we actually continued to be cynical about the situation and stopped using thimerosal as a preservative, what would make our vaccines safe to use? Hope? Almost one in every 166 children in the United States is said to have autism, many of whose origins are unknown. Now out of this alarming number of diagnosed children, how many can really be caused from vaccines trying to benefit their body? Even if these vaccines did play a part in some of these autistic children, we would have to regene rate almost every vaccine in distribution, cutting short our supply of immunity to diseases. Must we be reminded of life before vaccines? Life such as the smallpox pandemic of the 18th century, which finally slowed when physicist Edward Jenner created the first vaccine? No. We cannot let paranoidShow MoreRelatedThe Controversy Of Childhood Vaccination1173 Words   |  5 Pagesvaccinations have very few side effects, there have been very few lines between autism and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) (â€Å"Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and Vaccines†; Shea, Diekema), and when children come in to contact with diseases they are not vaccinated for it can cause nationwide pandemic (Nelson; â€Å"Should Any Vaccines Be Required for Children?†). There are side effects in everything around us and nothing is one hundred percent safe and vaccinations are no different. There are 30,000

Polanski’s Version of Macbeth Essay - 2151 Words

Polanski’s Version of Macbeth Prior to discussing its validity, Pearlman’s assertion requires some clarification. It is understood to suggest that through the depiction of tenth or eleventh century Scotland, Shakespeare’s Macbeth, and Polanski’s cinematic version of it, present particular views of the political world.[1] The issues, which the play and the film raise, are generic, in that they can apply beyond the specific setting. Although Pearlman records Polanski’s own observation that the scene in which Macduff’s castle is invaded draws on his own life experiences,[2] his assertion does not suggest that the play and film represent the comprehensive worldviews of Shakespeare and Polanski†¦show more content†¦The early scenes of Polanski’s Macbeth mirror and expand upon elements of pessimism in Shakespeare’s play. The opening scene of the film reinterprets that of the play by focusing on the impending demise of Cawdor and prefacing the transfer of th e mantle of ambition and disloyalty from Cawdor to Macbeth, which Shakespeare’s text subsequently implies. The beach on which the three witches meet is the same beach on which the fighting is later shown to have taken place and Cawdor captured. The circle, which they draw in the sand, symbolises Cawdor’s fate drawing to a close and the beginning of another cycle of disorder through Macbeth. The burying of a hangman’s noose previews Cawdor’s death, which Polanski dramatises later in the film, while the severed hand holding a dagger which is laid over the noose also previews that ‘dagger’ which ‘marshall’st’ Macbeth to murder Duncan (2.1.33 42).[4] Thus, ‘ere the set of sun’ and ‘When the hurly-burly’s done’ / When the battle’s lost and won’ Cawdor’s fate will be sealed and it will be time for the witches to ‘meet with Macbeth’ (1.1.5, 3-4 8). Amongst the possible interpretations of the role of the witches, which Shakespeare’s text permits, the opening scene of Polanski’s Macbeth emphasises their role as ‘weird sisters’ (3.4.132), instruments of fate.[5] They can beShow MoreRelatedMacbeth, By William Shakespeare1416 Words   |  6 PagesWilliam Shakespeare’s tragic play Macbeth is widely renowned and respected as one of the most influential works in history. Taylah Thirlwall compares Geoffrey Wright’s 2006 film to Roman Polanski’s 1971 film, and scrutinizes the portrayal of Masculinity. Using guns for swords and drugs for poison, the Melbourne’s Underground becomes a frolicking pitch for Wright’s Macbeth. Daggers, illusion and battling provides a framework into the highlighted theme of masculinity. What is masculinity, and theRead MoreMacBeth Versions Comparison Essay547 Words   |  3 PagesMacBeth versions comparison essay There are many differences between interpretations of William Shakespeares MacBeth. This essay wall contrast Shakespeares original version and a movie version by Roman Polanski produced in 1970. Three major differences will be discussed. One difference between Shakespeares and Polanskis version is the absence of the scene in England in Polanskis version. In the Original MacBeth, MacDuff goes to England to convince Malcolm to return and fight MacBethRead MoreThe Contrast Between Shakespeare’s Macbeth and Roman Polanski’s Macbeth1235 Words   |  5 PagesMrs. Fera ENG3U0-D November 2nd, 2012 The Contrast between Shakespeare’s Macbeth and Roman Polanski’s Macbeth Shakespeare’s play  Macbeth  is a tragedy that plots the fall and death of once a great man, revealing how ambition can lead to downfall. Many directors and producers have tried to portray his play into modern films but Roman Polanski produced the most successful Macbeth film, but Roman Polanski’s movie Macbeth changes many details that the viewer is unable to fully experience the catharsisRead More Macbeth vs Scotland, PA Essay1114 Words   |  5 Pages Macbeth: The thin line between tragedy and dark humor. William Shakespeare’s Macbeth has always been considered one of the literary worlds most celebrated tragedies. It is arguably the darkest and most gruesome of his plays. The protagonist, Macbeth, is the poster child for tragic hero, â€Å"a literary character who makes an error of judgment or has a fatal flaw that, combined with fate and external forces, brings on a tragedy† (www.dictionary.com). 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He also usedRead More Macbeth - Conflict Essay1468 Words   |  6 Pageswhether or not conflict is central to the dramatic development of MACBETH, one must consider all the dramatic factors that contribute to the Shakespearean play. The gradual decline of the protagonist , the role portrayed by characters and the order in which the events occur, greatly influence the direction in which the development of the play takes place. After reading the text MACBETH, by Shakespeare and viewing the film version, directed by Roman Polanski, it is logical to see that ambition andRead MoreMacbeth - Conflict1586 Words   |  7 Pageswhether or not conflict is central to the dramatic development of MACBETH, one must consider all the dramatic factors that contribute to the Shakespearean play. The gradual decline of the protagonist , the role portrayed by characters and the order in which the events occur, greatly influence the direction in which the development of the pla y takes place. After reading the text MACBETH, by Shakespeare and viewing the film version, directed by Roman Polanski, it is logical to see that ambition andRead MoreEssay about Macbeth by William Shakespeare540 Words   |  3 PagesMacbeth by William Shakespeare Macbeth, one of William Shakespeares shortest and bloodiest tragedies was written in 1606. Macbeth is also possibly the most memorable. It is a mysterious and somewhat powerful play. It has also attracted various film directors such as Polanski. Roman Polanski is famous for his horror and thriller - like films. He decided to express his interpretation on it and filmed an unexpected and different version of the play Macbeth.

The World Of Literature Its Inherent Subjectivity

What does it mean to be able to read a book? Is it a way to accumulate more knowledge? Or could it be just another form of human pleasure? The vagueness of these prior questions illustrates a truth that pervades the world of literature: its inherent subjectivity. Specific books may appeal to or disgust different people; truly, it is impossible for any piece of literature to be celebrated by every single individual. Those who are particularly offended by a specific piece may choose to just ignore it and move on with their lives, but others may take greater action, something which usually entails banning it from libraries or even stores. This form of censorship is no stranger to the United States, given its history beginning after the Civil War. However, even with the shifting of attitudes towards book banning, a reflection of the more open changing ideals and concepts of morality in the American public, this issue is still one that is pertinent today. Popular and modern books like The Hunger Games and Fifty Shades of Grey still are challenged by individuals and groups. Even though they may contain some questionable content, these books, still fall in line with the ideals of freedom set out in the First Amendment and the various clauses within it. The mere concept of book censorship in the United States today is antiquated and completely unnecessary; in order to address this problem, there must be a clear, unquestionable standard for literature to be unchallenged and free toShow MoreRelatedResearch Design : The Journey Of A Novice Researcher994 Words   |  4 PagesI may also choose to include personal reflections on my own practice. This would allow a thorough investigation of my topic and allow me to present, analyze and discuss information and existing ideas in the both the qualitative and quantitative literature from the patterns that emerge. Does this self-study qualify as action research? 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For examp le, a puzzle game is still a puzzle game, regardless of whether it takes place in a fantasy world or in outer space. In conclusion, seeing that video games have greater attractions, it has prompted us to conduct survey among students in Penang Matriculation College to find out whether playingRead More An Analysis of Hawthorne’s My Kinsman, Major Molineux Essay3946 Words   |  16 Pagesrevolution to transgress the boundaries of national politics by extending it into the philosophical realm as well. Thus, the struggles for political and national independence also demanded an ideological revolution in the fields of culture and literature. The Revolutionary poet Philip Freneau wrote: â€Å"Can we never be thought/To have learning or grace/Unless it be brought/From that damnable place?† (quoted in Cohen 19). 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Inherent subjectivity was to a great extent contributed to the fact that Emily broke down in tears when giving evidence. Although the emotional touch in this scene was intense however there was sense of recovery which was present in the theme and the progress ofRead MoreThe Terror of Obesity1584 Words   |  7 Pagesmale gaze; this in turn legitimizes woman’s immobility and shackle in domestic role under patriarchy. Female body is actually used against female by forcing women’s subjectivity into norms of body shape determined by men in a horrible way that incorporates body with female identity. Conrad’s Heart of Darkness is a masculine world where women have very little role. Still, there are relatively feminine characters through which masculinity and femininity are defined. In Heart of Darkness, body weight

Attila Jozsefs Oedipus Complex Revealed Through His Escapes From Reali Essay Example For Students

Attila Jozsefs Oedipus Complex Revealed Through His Escapes From Reali Essay tyAttila Jozsefs Oedipus Complex Revealed Through His Escapes From RealityEscaping reality is needed to write freely and creatively. Jozsef constantly escapes reality and writes beautiful poems. In his escapes, he acts like a father figure. He writes about how he misses his mothers love and yearns for his mother sexually. He gets upset and even mad because she isnt there for him. From his escapes we can psychologically determine that Jozsef has an Oedipus complex. A factor of the Oedipus complex is for the boy to be to his mother as his father is. Jozsef reveals this in his poems by trying to be the man of the house. Bringing home food is an example of what the man of the house does. Bring you potatoes, chicken, and a sack of millet (Jozsef 33). This was one of the things Jozsef does to imitate his father. From the first lines in the poem called Eulogy, he shows his yearning for his mothers affection and presence. I burn with a fever of ninety-eight point six degrees and mother you wont even nurse me (33). Jozsefs mother desserts him so early that he never has a chance to out grow the childish need for a mother. He flashes back at the way she treated him. You warmed my soup, blew it, and stirred it. And said eat and grow tall, my love (33). Like a child he wishes for her to be there to comfort and make him feel safe. The main idea of the Oedipus complex is that the boy wants his mother in a sexual way. Jozsef daydreams of her like a boy with a crush. I try to piece you together, from autumn scenes and a lot of women (33) Jozsef pictures her as his fantasy woman. I wear a pressed suit in my heart when I speak to you (62). He imagines dressing up to impress her. I mustnt think of your before my work is done, your dancing.(62) He cant get his mind of her and visions her dancing. All of these are ways of showing how much you love and miss your new girlfriend, but not your mother. Jozsef writes, You took it form me, and gave yourself and your breasts to the worms? I should have eaten you(33), He lusts for her sexually. He reveals the accepting of his mothers death, and not being able to fulfill his desires. Now you lips taste only the dampness(33) He wants her lips to taste his. It cant be, so like all jealous lovers he gets angry. His anger is because of her death. She broke his heart, never allowing his fantasies to be fulfilled. You used to comfort me and scold me, but I see know that your words were all lies? Your lips taste only the dampness- you lied to me on purpose(33). He gets disillusional by thinking he can still call her back and she will hear him. Its been five weeks, I dont know where you are.(62) I fell like cursing you, mamma, I cant hear you, yell at me? Youre terrible! You strive not to be, you ruin everything you shadow.(34) His anger and Jealous rages are an insight to his love for her. In his escapes from reality Jozsef strives to take his fathers place. Revealing the intense feelings he has for his mothers love and his sexual desire for her. He goes through all the stages that a person goes through when something tragic happens: Denial, anger, and finally acceptance. Jozsefs poems are intense because he has so much feeling behind them. His poems to reveal the reality of his desires, whic h is why we can presume his complex. .u239ed0d2b677f7a5ca777f5a028467df , .u239ed0d2b677f7a5ca777f5a028467df .postImageUrl , .u239ed0d2b677f7a5ca777f5a028467df .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .u239ed0d2b677f7a5ca777f5a028467df , .u239ed0d2b677f7a5ca777f5a028467df:hover , .u239ed0d2b677f7a5ca777f5a028467df:visited , .u239ed0d2b677f7a5ca777f5a028467df:active { border:0!important; } .u239ed0d2b677f7a5ca777f5a028467df .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .u239ed0d2b677f7a5ca777f5a028467df { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #95A5A6; } .u239ed0d2b677f7a5ca777f5a028467df:active , .u239ed0d2b677f7a5ca777f5a028467df:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #2C3E50; } .u239ed0d2b677f7a5ca777f5a028467df .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative ; } .u239ed0d2b677f7a5ca777f5a028467df .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #2980B9; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .u239ed0d2b677f7a5ca777f5a028467df .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .u239ed0d2b677f7a5ca777f5a028467df .ctaButton { background-color: #7F8C8D!important; color: #2980B9; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://artscolumbia.org/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .u239ed0d2b677f7a5ca777f5a028467df:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #34495E!important; } .u239ed0d2b677f7a5ca777f5a028467df .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left : 18px; top: 0; } .u239ed0d2b677f7a5ca777f5a028467df .u239ed0d2b677f7a5ca777f5a028467df-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .u239ed0d2b677f7a5ca777f5a028467df:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } READ: Bipolar Disorder EssayBibliography:About atilla jozsefs inner thoughts

Under Armour Company

PESTEL Analysis Macro-environmental factors affecting a company’s performance in market are uncontrollable forces from the external operations. These factors cannot be controlled and only require a change in the business marketing, management, operations and production processes. The factors are analysed using PESTEL model; implying analysis of political, economic, social, technological, and legal issues.Advertising We will write a custom case study sample on Under Armour Company specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Legal consideration The Under Armour Company is based in Baltimore and it operates within the confines of the State’s laws. The company operates within the business structural laws that govern the business operatives in the state of Maryland. Since the Under Armour Company also operates in international markets such as Japan, UK, Germany, Canada, and France, it has to adhere to the other laws that govern comp anies that operative across the globe in order to facilitate smooth operations. Since the Under Armour Company is a registered local and international business with no record of unethical practices, the legal factors are not intense towards the operation of the business and have minimal impacts. The adherence has facilitated a smooth activity of the Under Armour Company all over the globe. For instance, the company has expanded from the US to continents such as Europe and Asia. Technological Consideration Technological macro-environmental factors are designed to affect business operatives in the global sphere. The type of machinery that a company opts to use in the production of its products and offer its services, the strategic measures it takes in the marketing process, and its accessibility has a lot of impact on the market. Companies with innovative skills in their production lines and those using online marketing strategies are highly likely to have higher number of customers. The Service Oriented Architecture is a technological initiative by the Under Armour Company, which enables the management to monitor general trends in performance at a glance and spot out any existing bottlenecks that could be slowing down business. The speed with which this happens helps the management to put corrective measures into place that eventually averts losses or negative growth. These technological advances have attracted more customers from diverse sports backgrounds due to the improved product orientation as evident in the success of the football cleats product in the US and European market.Advertising Looking for case study on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Cultural consideration The cultural set up and the population are a major key to the social concerns. The Under Armour Company is set against a social background with a population of dynamic social and cultural orientation. For instance, the US, Canadian, European, and Asian markets consist of highly stratified cultures that the company must satisfy in its lines of sportswear and other gaming apparel. Against this background, the company has ensured that its products are not highly priced while still maintaining quality productions. For instance, despite the high quality products, the prices for the Under Armour Company’s products are flexible to the high-end, middle-end, and low-end customers across the globe. The main advantage that the company relies on is that the targeted population has a big following and fun for sports. In addition to its base market in the US, the Under Armour Company has extended its sales to the new markets outside American such as Europe (UK, Germany, and France), Asia (Japan), and Canada. In achieving this goal, its products have been customized to be cultural sensitive and be able to be used across the global environment. Economic consideration The global market cycles has a grea t impact on the business operation both in the present and the future. The economic boom, recession, and any kind of inflation cause the business to make drastic measures to withstand the challenges of existence. Predictions of these economic factors are very difficult to estimate since their studies vary a lot based on the school of thought. The market swings as a result of competition and economic depression are a real threat to the survival of the Under Armour Company since it operates in a very dynamic market that is directly affected by changed customer preferences and economic downturn. Comparative foreign exchange also affects the Under Armour Company since it conducts global transactions in the foreign markets, that is, differences in the value of money at the points of production and destination markets has immensely impact on the earnings from exports of the company.   Measures should therefore be undertaken to ensure that this concern does not create a negative impact t o the Company’s operations. Political considerations The closer economic relations in the US, Europe, and Asia have benefited the Under Armour’s business performance for a long time. These regions enjoy political stability which is a perfect environment for doing business for the company. This is a good assurance for shareholders, both domestic and foreign, that their investment is safe and it is an incentive to them to add even more.Advertising We will write a custom case study sample on Under Armour Company specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More With continued political stability, the Under Armour Company is poised to grow and expand even more as many investors are assured of safety in the event that they decide to put their money into the venture. There are no fears of political wars and uprisings that can affect the Under Armour Company’s business performance in the current target markets. Porters Value Chain A nalysis The Under Armour Company is focused on supplying its consumers with premium products that suit their needs and experiences. The company premises are furnished in luxurious manner that attracts potential consumers from all categories in the market. The company’s commitment to high ethical values is demonstrated through the value network and chain. The company value chain commences with the development of products through own factories, independent manufactures and acquisition of licensed accessory supplies from partners, especially in Japan. As a global company, the Under Armour Company management considers standardised and system supported supply and production process as success factors. Minority of the company’s full line products are supplied by independent and commissioned producers while majority are produced by the company’s own factories. The high self-production is significant for the Under Armour Company as it covers the portion of its tradition al ready-to-wear product range which enables the company to gain expertise and optimise on both the product quality and availability. As opposed to its competitors which produce their products from central points, the strategy to spread production points around the world consolidates its supply networks and strengthens its long-term partnerships. Moreover, the spread of the sourcing volume across the global network of suppliers spreads risks and makes the company independent of any single sourcing location and manufacturer. From the manufacturing and supply points, the Under Armour Company products are distributed either through company’s own retail stores or through independent store owners and super markets as in the case in Europe and Asia. Organization Culture The physical structures of the Under Armour’s organization culture promotes positive relationship between favourable and effective job performance and work environment as attributes of motivation and congenia l conditions. The structure encourages security, comfort and safety, and prevailing physical convenience.Advertising Looking for case study on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Measuring factors such as interpersonal relations, working conditions, support and trust, welfare provisions, and work environment has greatly contributed to the organizational effectiveness in terms of product innovation and diversification. At present the Under Armour Company has more than six product lines. The Under Armour Company has three building blocks of learning such as a supportive learning environment, concrete learning processes, and practices leadership that reinforce innovation. The managers play a significant role in setting up the learning environment for their employees. This culture has created an ideal climate for innovation and communication among the employees. The Under Armour Company’s management has been working to fill the corporate culture with life to instigate individual employees to bring their commitments, personal skills and enthusiasm to the company, contributing to success of the company globally. Furthermore, the company thrives on employee diversity to beat its rivals. The Under Armour Company is characterised by diversity and internationality, in the local and international product lines in Asia and Europe. The diversity and internationality of the company employees does not only represent the enrichment of the corporate culture, but also demonstrate a clear success factor of the company in its international competition. The management competency has enabled the company to earn good reputation through provision of well aligned products that ensures consumer experiences. Moreover, the Under Armour Company management emphasise on follow-up of their customers to understand what they say regarding their products. This has enabled the company to improve its products to suit consumer needs. Business Approach The business approach of the Under Armour Company is organic growth since its expansion has been necessitated by the increasing customer base and demand for different product lines. For instance, the growth from the ye ar 2005 to 2008 was inspired by market expansion and introduction of extra product lines with high demand in the local and international markets. Besides, the company has successfully adopted the integrated perspective to launch new product lines targeting different customer segments. For instance, the successful launch of the football cleat in 2006 further expanded the company market to include the women, children, and youths. From the inception of the company, the business strategy has always followed a strategic plan in physical growth and market growth within the US and external markets. For instance, the company applied its previous expansion plan within the US market to move into the European market. The plan involved proactive market engagement, systematic research, and constant innovation and product improvement. The company uses the international diversity perspective to ensure that foreign markets are served with products that match their culture and expectations. For inst ance, in order to penetrate in the European and Asian market, the company partnered with local stores and outlets to ensure that the products sold in such markets are market oriented. BCG Matrix and Competitors The Under Armour Company has been strategic in product introduction to minimize cases of failure. As part of its long-term strategic value creation, the Under Armour Company decided to diversify its products to target the women and youth segment in the year 2006. Besides, the company has created several apparels such as the footwear and accessories besides the license revenues. Apparently, the men wear has the highest market share followed by the women wear. The accessories are categorized in the cash cow matrix since they have high market share of 29% for the company despite the low growth. However, the licensing revenues have the lowest market share in the company’s market control matrix of less that 10%. The Under Armour Company faces very strong competition from es tablished sports apparel companies in the global market. Moreover, there are still more local companies entering the global apparel market. Given in table 1 below are some of the key competitors in the apparel industry. Table 1: The Under Armour Company main competitors Name Establishment and Operations Products Targets and market share Competitive advantage Nike Established in 1962 and currently operates globally. Deals in apparel and accessories. Targets customers of all ages interested in sports products. The company has a market share of 16.4% in the US. Diverse products, affordable prices, household name, and global operation. Addidas AG Established in Italy in 1948 and operates in global market. Deals in apparel and accessories. Targets customers of all ages interested in sports products. The company has a market share of 13.4% in the US. Specialised and diverse products that are affordable and associated with quality. Russell Athletics Founded in 1978 Capitalises on freelance sports designs and apparel. The company has a market share of 3.5% in the US. Diverse designs and ability to offer series of products to different groups of potential customers. Porters Five Forces Porter’s five forces analysis is necessary for the Under Armour Company as it assists in comprehension of the market strengths and weaknesses. Table 1 below summarises Porter’s five forces with regards to the Under Armour Company. Table 2: Porter’s five forces analysis Competition Rivalry Determinants of buyer power Threat of Substitution Determinants of supplier power Threat of new entries The Under Armour Company faces rivalry from both the local companies and international companies in all regions in which it competes. The key rivals are listed in table 1. Customer power is high in most of the market environments in which the Under Armour Company operates in North America and Western Europe. With the substitutes in the market, the consumers may de cide to shift if they feel unsatisfied with the Under Armour Company products. Moreover, the cost of switching products for the consumers is quite low. The threat of substitute products is high in the sports apparel industry. Some customers would also opt for ordinary apparel rather than designer fashions. The supplier power in the industry is quite high. With the national and international laws ensuring that suppliers are treated fairly, the company does not yield more power over them. The threat of new entrants into the fashion market is quite high. Although the market place is already having many companies, more companies are entering the marketing to seize opportunities that are not yet exploited. Business Strategy Diamond Analysis The business strategy diamond analysis reviews the elements of arena, vehicles, staging, differentiators, and economic logic. In relation to the Under Armour Company, strategy diamond analysis encompasses proactive interaction of these elements to create a strategic business. In relation to the diamond analysis, under the element of arena, the most active product category is that of men and it accounts for 34% of the total revenues. Despite the product presence in Europe, Canada, and Asia, the US market is the most active and commands 96% of the company’s revenues. The apparel category is more active than the footwear and the licensing revenues for the company. Under the element of vehicles, the company has been proactive in licensing and joint venture, especially with the foreign market as part of its internalisation strategy. This has been successful as evident in its expansion into Germany, Japan, the UK, Canada, and France. The main differentiation strategies for the Under Armour Company include product reliability, styling, and price. The company has three pricing categories for the high-end, middle, and low-end customers. The Under Armour Company products are developed to guarantee customer comfort. In addition, all the product lines (footwear and apparel) are very stylish. The company has a sequence of initiatives such as product diversification. In the years 2004, 2005, and 2006, the company managed to roll out new products and stores that were very colourful and easy to notice. The economic logic of the above strategies was to provide premium products at competitive prices to ensure that company survives competition from giants such as Addidas and Nike. Competitive Advantage Analysis The Under Armour Company has established a brand image that enables it to attract customers with less effort as opposed to most of its less established rivals. The entrants have to invest heavily in promotion and advertising for them to attract new customers and maintain their customers. The established brand image has enabled the company to cut on its cost and get increased levels of profitability. Strong commitment to quality and product innovation enables the company to get the right experience for their customers. Moreover, the company conducts more market research to ascertain customer thoughts and changing demands. Having been in the fashion industry for over 10 years, the Under Armour Company has acquired enough experience to compete favourably in the industry. It has had sufficient time to learn from its weaknesses and develop long-term strategies that will anchor it through the market future. Fast adopting the emergent technological changes, the Under Armour Company has invested in technological creativity to suit its consumer changing needs. Finally, the company has been able to win more customers with its strategically-placed and ambient stores with conspicuous features such as attractive colours besides diverse quality sports apparel and footwear for all ages and gender. Recommendations The Under Armour Company should ponder introducing trade-offs to its products in countries which do not have strict laws that protect the business, when expanding further to other foreign ma rkets. Countries like China do not have strict rules which protect business entities from being copied by competitors. In safeguarding its products’ brands and making sure that it is not imitated by the local firms, the Under Armour Company should ensure that it introduces measures in its operative process that would make it distinct from any firm. The introduction of trade-offs should be applied while ensuring that the amount of revenue collected do not decrease. The Under Armour Company may partner which medium businesses retailing products similar to those of its competitors. This strategy will expand its market and make it easy for customers to access the products. When properly implemented, the company is likely to counter the strategy of its competitors, such as Nike and Addidas, of reaching the customers through proxy retailers. This case study on Under Armour Company was written and submitted by user Angela W. to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. 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