How to Make a Strong Thesis Statement

How to Make a Strong Thesis Statement Weve all been there: up into the late hours of the night, struggling through writing a paper that you are completely unsure about (that just so happens to be due tomorrow). Your paper seems to meander and not make sense and you are frustrated. Most often when we struggle with a paper its because our thesis statements arent in order.Think of your papers thesis statement like a coverline on the front of a magazine. Though the story inside may be hundreds or even thousands of words long, the coverline on the front details what the story is about in just a few succinct, compelling words. The coverline will give you an argument as to why you should pick the magazine up from the rack and put it on the conveyor belt along with your other groceries. The same goes for your papers thesis statement. Its purpose in your paper is to make an argument about your topic in a way that pieces and organizes all of your evidence together. The thesis statement should keep the reader engaged and make them want to read more.Most importantly, the thesis statement should perfectly sum up what the rest of the paper is saying. Have you ever seen a really good movie trailer and then been extremely disappointed by the movie itself because it wasnt what the trailer portrayed it to be? Think about that as you write a thesis statement to go in your paper. You want your thesis statement to be compelling, but you also want your thesis to be backed up with evidence in the body of the paper so that the reader doesnt feel duped at the end.So, you know that a thesis statement is important and central to your paper, but how do you go about writing an effective one? Here are a few examples of what to do (and what not to do) when writing your thesis statement.The thesis should go at the beginning of the paperBecause the thesis is so central and integral to how the rest of your paper reads, it should go in the first paragraph (or at least one of the first few paragraphs) in the paper. Much like a lede s entence in a newspaper article, the thesis tells the reader what the rest of the article is about and clues them into what they can expect the rest of the way. If the thesis were to go anywhere but the beginning, this would be confusing to your audience as they wouldnt know the point of why they were reading in the first place.The thesis statement is the starting point of your race.Make your thesis give direction to the rest of your paperAll thesis statements make arguments about your topic, but good thesis statements give direction to how the rest of the paper will be shaped. In order to accomplish this, your thesis should lend itself to several reasons that elaborate on your claim. For example, the thesis College athletes should be paid, while certainly an argument, isnt effective because it lacks a sense of structure. This argument doesnt naturally lend itself to body paragraphs. However, if you wrote your thesis as, College athletes deserve compensation because it is the ethical and moral thing to do, then you have two potential reasons that support your claims, thus giving shape to the rest of the paper.Because you have added in a claim to your argument, you can now spend several paragraphs discussing (with your evidence to back it up) things such as the time college athletes devote to their sport and then several paragraphs on how many collegiate athletes come from poverty and how difficult it is for them to make it. With these claims it will be much easier for you to figure out how to structure your paper effectively.A good thesis statement should give your paper direction.Make sure your argument is debatableThough its good to question everything that you learn with a bit of healthy skepticism, there are certain truths that we as a public already know. For example, everyone knows that rent is high in New York City. This statement is unequivocal and therefore it would not be interesting to write a thesis statement that simply said, New York Citys rents a re among the highest in the world. This isnt something that can be argued for or againstâ€"it is simply a fact that most people know.The moment your fact becomes an actual thesis statement is when you add the argument to it. You could take your fact: New York Citys rents are among the highest in the world and then add the argument, and should be rent controlled in order to preserve the multi-cultural and unique identity that it has historically had.Only when you add the argument does it really become a thesis statement (and also becomes something that your audience would likely want to read on about).A thesis statement requires an argument to discuss.Smaller is better when it comes to thesis statementsPapers are often more focused when the argument you are trying to make is smaller. If your argument is overly broad (think something like, child care should be more affordable in the United States), then your paper will most likely be meandering and lack a sense of direction. With a to pic so large, there is too much information to cover effectively in such a short amount of time and space. When you make the argument smaller and localize it (something like Childcare should be publicly subsidized in California), then its easier to zero in on facts and provide evidence to your audience.A small thesis statement is focused and effective.Ensure that your thesis statement actually answers the research questionSometimes you may be so busy researching and making sure that your thesis statement is effective that you may forget to check if the paper is actually responding correctly to the paper prompt. For example, if your teacher asked you to write an essay on Atticus Finchs parenting style in To Kill a Mockingbird, then writing your paper and your thesis statement on how Boo Radley is the mockingbird wont be answering the question. Even if the essay and thesis statement are strong, the paper wont be addressing the issue your teacher wanted you to explore.Answering the tea chers question is necessary for a thesis statement.Your thesis will emerge from the writing process (particularly from revisions)Many novice writers think that your thesis statement should come out fully formed when they first start typing. What really happens is that you have a loose idea of an argument when you first start and the more you read and write on your subject, the clearer your argument will become. The thesis statement will really take shape, however, when you are in the thick of the writing process. As you revise, trim, rearrange, and add your paragraphs, your thesis statement will have more clarity. Remember, your thesis statement should be a succinct summary of what your body of evidence is saying.As you write, you will refine your thesis statement.Nuance is okayIn an academic argument its not necessarily about earth shattering revelations as much as it is approaching a question in a new way or coming to a new insight of a particular problem. For example, instead of a thesis that claims to solve world peace, a thesis on what you can do to make your local community a better place can be much more powerful. Dont feel like you have to solve all of the worlds problems in your paper. A good argument doesnt solve major problems; it looks at problems under a new light. Good research is done in small increments and often looking at things under a microscope rather than making grand pronouncements.Focus on smaller issues rather than the big picture.Thesis statement examplesThe following are a few examples of weak thesis statements versus effective and strong thesis statements on well-known paper topics. Use these example thesis statements as a guide to help you think about how you should structure your argument for your particular topic. (Note that these essay topics are for example and are very general and should not be copied for the purposes of your essay.)Topic 1: Climate ChangeWhat not to do: Climate change is man-made.How to fix it: Due to the har rowing statistics of climate change, communities should lead the way in diminishing the effects of global warming by investing more in recycling, public transportation and/or carpooling, and promoting the use of clean energy.Why we fixed it: The first thesis statement definitely gives an argument, but doesnt provide any context or evidence on why the author has come to this conclusion. The first statement is also very broad; the topic is too large and would easily get off track in the body of the paper. The second statement has been narrowed down significantly. It provides solutions and gives the writer a loose structure to follow in the rest of the paper.Topic 2: The Great GatsbyWhat not to do: F. Scott Fitzgerald has a negative view of the American Dream.How to fix it: Jay Gatsbys quick rise in social stature and economic status and his ultimate undoing by the old money crowd in F. Scott Fitzgeralds The Great Gatsby represents the authors skeptical and pessimistic view of the so-c alled American Dream.Why we fixed it: Though this first statement is an argument that is debatable, it doesnt really give us any context or claims as to how F. Scott Fitzgerald shows us this in his writing. In the second thesis statement, we can clearly see how the writer came to this conclusion about Fitzgeralds opinion through concrete evidence. We can also see how the writer will be able to organize the rest of the paragraphs and discuss Gatsbys social stature, economic status, and the conflict between new and old money.Topic 3: To Kill a MockingbirdWhat not to do: Harper Lees To Kill a Mockingbird tells us exactly how to fix racism.How to fix it: Tom Robinsons unfair conviction and death in Harper Lees To Kill a Mockingbird sheds light on the role of systemic racism in the American justice system.Why we fixed it: This statement reveals something interesting and sheds new light on a problem. The first thesis statement makes a very grand and overarching claim that cant possibly be supported by evidence. Again, its always best to narrow down your argument and remember that you dont need to solve all of the worlds problems in your paper.Topic 4: Obesity in American Children in the SouthWhat not to do: Children in the Southern part of the United States are more likely to be obese.How to fix it: Childhood obesity rates in the South have doubled in the last 30 years because of poor access to healthy foods, an increased dependence on technology for entertainment, and high poverty levels in the southern region of the United States.Why we fixed it: The first statement isnt really an argument, but more of a summary of what the literature says. It doesnt really explain why children from the South are more likely to be obese. The second thesis statement, however, provides us with some insight as well as gives us a structure for the rest of the paper with three concrete reasons that we can go into depth about.How to go forwardIts no secret that writing is tough. In fact , its one of the toughest things youll do in your academic career. However, lots of practice and a clear understanding of how to write a thesis, how it works best, and what things you will need to include in it will make you a better writer and also a better researcher.

Notable Quotes from George Orwells Animal Farm

George Orwells  influential, allegorical  novel  Animal Farm was published in 1945. In the novel, the overworked and mistreated animals on a farm all begin to follow the precepts of Animalism, rise up against the humans, take over the farm, and rename the place: Animal Farm. Here are a few quotes from this famous work. All men are enemies. All animals are comrades.- George Orwell, Animal Farm, Ch. 1THE SEVEN COMMANDMENTS1. Whatever goes upon two legs is an enemy.2. Whatever goes upon four legs, or has wings, is a friend.3. No animal shall wear clothes.4. No animal shall sleep in a bed.5. No animal shall drink alcohol.6. No animal shall kill any other animal.7. All animals are equal.- George Orwell, Animal Farm, Ch. 2The animals were happy as they had never conceived it possible to be. Every mouthful of food was an acute positive pleasure, now that it was truly their own food, produced by themselves and for themselves, not doled out to them by a grudging master.- George Orwell, Animal Farm, Ch. 3I will work harder!- George Orwell, Animal Farm, Ch. 3FOUR LEGS GOOD, TWO LEGS BAD- George Orwell, Animal Farm, Ch. 3It was given out that the animals there practiced cannibalism, tortured one another with red-hot horseshoes, and had their females in common. This was what came of rebelling against the laws o f Nature, Frederick and Pilkington said.- George Orwell, Animal Farm, Ch. 4I have no wish to take life, not even human life, repeated Boxer, and his eyes were full of tears.- George Orwell, Animal Farm, Ch. 4Napoleon is always right.- George Orwell, Animal Farm, Ch. 5All that year the animals worked like slaves. But they were happy in their work; they grudged no effort or sacrifice, well aware that everything they did was for the benefit of themselves and those of their kind who would come after them, and not for a pack of idle, thieving human beings.- George Orwell, Animal Farm, Ch. 6The human beings did not hate Animal Farm any less now that it was prospering; indeed, they hated it more than ever.- George Orwell, Animal Farm, Ch. 6They were always cold, and usually hungry as well.- George Orwell, Animal Farm, Ch. 7If she herself had had any picture of the future, it had been of a society of animals set free from hunger and the whip, all equal, each working according to his capacit y, the strong protecting the weak.- George Orwell, Animal Farm, Ch. 7They had come to a time when no one dared speak his mind, when fierce, growling dogs roamed everywhere, and when you had to watch your comrades torn to pieces after confessing to shocking crimes. Chapter 7Some of the animals remembered -- or thought they remembered -- that the Sixth Commandment decreed, No animal shall kill any other animal. And though no one cared to mention it in the hearing of the pigs or the dogs, it was felt that the killings which had taken place did not square with this.- George Orwell, Animal Farm, Ch. 8Besides, in those days they had been slaves and now they were free, and that made all the difference, as Squealer did not fail to point out.- George Orwell, Animal Farm, Ch. 9 Study Guide Questions for study and discussion.General book club questions for Study and Discussion

Pyramid of Intervention Essay - 924 Words

Running head: PYRAMID OF INTERVENTION Module 6: Pyramid of Intervention Stephanie R. Clements Grand Canyon University: EDA 561 May 9, 2012 Pyramid of Intervention The Pyramid of Intervention is a term applied to the system of supports that a school provides for its struggling students. It is a three tiered model of instruction and intervention. Teachers begin by using the state curriculum with all student and monitoring student progress. The teacher adapts resources to fit the needs of the students. Progress is assessed by observations, assessments, and the collection of student work. Children learn curriculum differently depending on a their readiness, participation in class, support from parents, and learning†¦show more content†¦The purpose of the SST is to discuss educational and medical history of the student and what interventions have been used so far. A plan of new interventions will be developed during this meeting to implement. The progress or lack of should be monitored over a set period of time to evaluate if interventions are having the desired results. A follow up meeting may be necessary to chan ge or adjust the intervention plan. Similar to Response to Intervention (RTI), the SST may refer the student for special education testing. Only a small percentage of students get referred through this intervention plan. Some students will be moved to tier two of the pyramid. These are students who need instruction beyond the regular support in the classroom. They are monitored and the action plan is followed. If the data shows a learning problem, then performance can definitly be affected. Based on this information, an Individual Education Plan (IEP) can be developed to meet student needs. Goals are specified and based on the disability detected. Many other services such as speech can be included in the IEP also.Classroom accomodations, inclusion schedules, and testing conditions can be specified in the IEP. 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However, the logic of the edification of those pyramids and their builders are still a mystery. All that is known is that the construction of the mausoleum required high technical precision since the angles of the base were exactly 90 degrees and the four sides of the pyramids were aligned with the four points of the compass. Chilvers claims that the Egyptians must have beenRead MoreInstructional Objective ( Lesson Objective ) Essay1029 Words   |  5 Pagesâ€Å"Egyptian Class Structure† a YouTube video. Materials †¢ Social Class Pyramid Poster †¢ Social Class Pyramid (For students that need it on their desk, visual impairment) †¢ Sentence Strips †¢ Summary worksheets (social class) †¢ Fact Poster †¢ â€Å"Egyptian Class Structure† Video †¢ Smart Board Strategies (Learning Strategies) Group Discussion: This will be evident when the teacher and students discuss the structure of the social class pyramid, along with the discussion of each social class. 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The Price of Happiness Free Essays

People all around the world work their hardest to ensure that they have a happy life for them and their families. Happiness as we know cannot be bought with money, but Ben L. Ashcraft states that everything in life comes with a price tag, including happiness, and through our choices we select the price we are willing to pay. We will write a custom essay sample on The Price of Happiness or any similar topic only for you Order Now Ashcraft refers to a quote by James E. Fraust who stated â€Å"If you’re not willing to pay the price of success, you will pay the price of failure.† Ashcraft says that being successful will lead to a happy life, although success has an up-front fee where not all beings are willing to pay, as opposed to failure where you are allowed a grace period before you are required to begin paying. He suggests developing a â€Å"long-term vision† in which people may see the result of their actions down the road. So does happiness have a price? it does, the price is the choices we make in our lives, the choice to travel the road of success of failure. Happiness cannot be bought with money, as cliche as it sounds it is absolutely true. The price of happiness can be paid by the choices we make in life. People always state that we pay the price of our mistakes , but we also pay the price of happiness. Ashcraft writes that being responsible, admitting to mistakes, apologizing, getting an education, telling the truth, making changes, repairing relationships, etc†¦ are the cost of success. As simple and easy as they sound they might be truly difficult in some situations. For example, an employee in a company makes an unintentional error at his job that leads to a chain of mistakes throughout the place of work which causes major commotion and confusion. That employee, although being terrified of his mistake, admits the fault he has done, takes responsibility and becomes determined in fixing his blunder. By that difficult choice, he has shown that he can be a responsible and dependable being, which can be a major positive feature to his future in that company. However, most people will not own up to their mistakes which may begin their travel on the road of failure. Suppose that employee does not take responsibility of his error but instead be dishonest about the situation and inflict the damage he has done upon another worker where he aims to be clear out of any trouble, which at the time may have been an easier choice. Ashcraft calls that a grace period before you are required to begin paying, in this case paying for his mistakes. It is known that no mistake goes unpunished, when the company figures out that the employee responsible was deceitful and corrupt, they take severe actions toward him. Not only did he lose his job, but he lost his credibility and trust between his colleagues and other companies who have heard of his name and his procedures, thus making it tougher for him to find another job in his area of expertise. Ben L. Ashcraft suggests that â€Å"long-term vision† can be of magnificent help to avoid failure, which in my opinion can be a great benefit in our lives. He compares it to driving on a windy dark road with poor headlights. You could miss a curve or crash. Long-Term is like turning on the bright light and seeing what the results of your actions might be â€Å"down the road†. Although the price of success may be rather difficult in the beginning, or a certain amount or pressure may come with it, but in the long-term it will decrease tremendously and become easier to pay. Not so the price of failure, for it may stack up to enormous amounts, that will cause grief and despair in your life and those around you. There is no way to escape paying the price of your actions. Take that young man who took responsibility for his slip-up, he was clearly looking forward towards the future for he knew if he was untruthful that would be a vast hit to his career which may cause a great amount of unrest and instability in his life. Indeed there is a price to happiness, every choice we make whether good or bad will affect it. As hard as paying up-front for success may be, we must always accomplish it or try our best to, for in the long-term we will reap the goodness out of that choice. On the other hand, we may have the option of taking a different path that may lead to failure. That path may be trouble-free and uncomplicated at first, but the problems will catch up to us, those we thought we were liberated from, and they will ruin our lives. We have the ability to decide what the price of our happiness is, how abundantly present it may be in our lives or the opposite. Choose wisely. How to cite The Price of Happiness, Papers

KMC and market attractiveness

Introduction Kids Market Consulting (KMC) was established in 2002 by Natalie Berezovskaya. The company has similar characteristics described by Tsoy (2005) for medium and small companies. Tsoy (2005) discusses that these companies rely on the top manager’s skills for their strategy and success. They hire employees with technical skills to perform other duties.Advertising We will write a custom report sample on KMC and market attractiveness specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More KMC has relied on Berezovskaya’s expertise in children, and experience in the media industry for its success (Taylor Vynogradov, 2004). KMC also attributes part of its success to the partnership it shares with Dynamic Development and Innovation Group (DDI). The current situation is that KMC is threatened by potential competitors who offer undifferentiated products in the Ukrainian market research industry. KMC has created consumer confidence for it s product. Customer loyalty is not guaranteed if competitors develop a similar product. Competitive pricing is the strategy that is most likely to be used by competitors because the market segment appears to have a low growth rate. Russia has a larger market research industry with revenues that amount to about $300 million (Klimenko Harrison, 2013). The Russian market is the most viable expansion location for a small-sized or medium-sized company located in Ukraine. Market attractiveness of Ukraine’s marketing research industry Market attractiveness refers to the market size, growth possibilities, and potential for profits (Cant et al. 2009). The factors to be considered in market attractiveness are market/customer factors, economic and technological factors, competitive factors, and environmental factors (see exhibit 1). Market/consumer factors evaluate the market size, potential, and growth rate. It also considers the product’s stage in the life cycle, customer loya lty, bargaining power of customers, and seasonality of demand (Cant et al., 2009). Stage in life cycle and customer loyalty The life cycle of KMC’s product appears to have reached maturity. If KMC does not find potential expansion areas, its market share can decline because of new rivalry. Firms that offer undifferentiated marketing, advertizing, and branding services consider engaging their services in KMC’s target market (Taylor Vynogradov 2004). KMC has the advantage of customer loyalty.Advertising Looking for report on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Its association with Dynamic Development and Innovation Group (DDI) has gives it an advantageous mark of quality. It may be able to withstand competitive forces as a result of the brand image (Taylor Vynogradov 2004). KMC success will also rely on price elasticity in the market. If competitors offer lower prices, customer loyalty may not be guaranteed. Porter’s five forces The market’s profit potential and customer’s bargaining power can be analyzed using Porter’s five forces (McDonald Wilson, 2011). When KMC was developing its product, there was no competition. Children were considered to lack purchasing power. KMC’s successful entry has attracted new rivalry. The market research industry has several large firms offering similar products. Intensity of competition in the industry is high. If the same rivalry that the entire market research industry experiences is transferred to the kids’ market research, KMC is likely to lose a portion of its market share. KMC has to expand geographically. It can intensify its presence in other cities within Ukraine or globally. The threat of substitute is unlikely because kids and adults have different perceptions (Taylor Vynogradov 2004). This makes it necessary to conduct market research that specifically targets children. The market is m ore attractive because the product lacks potential substitutes. The threat of new entrants is determined by the resources that a company needs to start operating. KMC made a successful entry because it relied on DDI resources such as offices, and personnel. KMC had to â€Å"spend 50% of its first year revenue on computers, and project planning activities† (Taylor Vynogradov 2004, p. 6). KMC also has several years of reinvestment. Market entry for a completely new company may be limited by lack of familiarization with the market, and the size of capital. KMC benefited from contacts that the founder had after working in the media industry for several years. New entrants may lack such advantage. However, the large companies that already exist may decide to offer similar services that target kids’ market research. Suppliers have a strong bargaining power if they are a few in the industry. KMC uses psychologists, and other professionals who may be costly to hire. From KMCà ¢â‚¬â„¢s expenses, it is reported that â€Å"70% of the expenses consist of payment made to 5 full-time employees† (Taylor Vynogradov 2004, p. 6).Advertising We will write a custom report sample on KMC and market attractiveness specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Suppliers appear to have strong bargaining power. It is also evident from the revenues of the large firms. Their net income is a small percentage of total revenues (see exhibit 2). This is because of the high cost of supplies. Market attractiveness is reduced by the high cost of human resources. When KMC entered the market, customers did not have strong bargaining power because of less rivalry (Taylor Vynogradov 2004). With more firms willing to offer similar products, customers have gained stronger bargaining power. When customers have stronger bargaining power, profit margins may reduce because of competitive pricing. Low profit margins reduce market attractivene ss. Market growth rate, size and potential KMC is experiencing slow growth. It is also threatened by potential competitors from firms offering undifferentiated services (Taylor Vynogradov 2004). KMC should consider matching its growth rate with that of the whole marketing research industry. It can be used to evaluate possible growth. The growth rate can be estimated using â€Å"average annual growth rate of revenue in that industry† (McDonald Wilson, 2011, p. 180). The Ukrainian market research industry lacks accurate estimates to calculate growth rate. However, a projection can be made using the market leader growth rate. Gfk is the market leader in Ukraine. In 2001, its revenues were 5.07 million hryvnia. In 2011, its revenues were 100.4 million hyrvnia (Gfk Ukraine, 2012). Gfk has experienced an average growth rate of 38.8% in the last ten years (see exhibit 3). KMC could grow at the same rate by investing the same amount of resources. A high growth rate increases market attractiveness. KMC Ukraine can also consider its concentration in the other 6 cities. It can offer specific market research for each city to increase potential for growth. It can also consider that 80% of the population lives in rural areas. According to Taylor Vynogradov (2004), only 20% live in urban centers.Advertising Looking for report on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More The market size is estimated using total accessible revenue generated in the industry less inaccessible revenue (McDonald Wilson, 2011). The inaccessible revenue represents the customer base that cannot be captured despite additional investment. The size of the Ukrainian market research industry was between $5 million and $20 million (Taylor Vynogradov 2004). The main reason for lack of a more accurate figure is the existence of firms that do not submit their financial records to the government. KMC should consider venturing into the Russian market which is estimated to be 10 times larger (Taylor Vynogradov 2004). Economic and technological factors Economic and technological factors consider the â€Å"investment intensity, level of technology, ability to pass through effects of inflation, barriers to entry/exit, and access to raw materials† (Cant et al. 2009). Barriers to entry have been considered in the Porter’s five forces. Ukraine is considered to have a low inf lation rate (see exhibit 4). Reports indicate that Ukraine is likely to experience deflation this year (Ukraine Inflation Rate, 2013). The Heritage Foundation reports that Ukraine has an inflation rate of 8% (Index of Economic Freedom, 2013). Other reports indicate lower inflation rates. Companies operating in Ukraine are unlikely to lose value through inflation. A low inflation rate increases market attractiveness. The market research industry elaborates mature use of technology. KMC spent 50% of its revenue on computers, and other projects in its first year. This is about $50,000 considering that it generated about $100,000 annually during its initial years. It also invested an additional â€Å"15% to 20% in subsequent years† (Taylor Vynogradov 2004, p. 6). The industry appears to be investment intensive especially on human resources, and technology. A high cost on new technology reduces market attractiveness. Competitive factors Competitive factors consider the product di fferentiation among competitors, industry structure, and competitive groupings among other factors (Cant et al. 2009). There is a great possibility of new entrants in the kids’ market research. KMC benefits from operating under DDI as a competitive grouping. The group may face rivalry from other large groups operating locally or globally. KMC has the advantage of perceived product differentiation. It is also associated with high quality as a result of differentiation. Environmental factors Environmental factors evaluate the â€Å"regulatory climate and degree of social acceptance† (Cant et al., 2009, p. 131). The formation of the Ukrainian Marketing Association (UMA) ensures that companies within the industry use fair practices. UMA is a self regulatory organization (Taylor Vynogradov 2004). It indicates industry maturity. KMC has carried out extensive activities to increase customer awareness. New entrants are likely to find an industry where customers are knowledgea ble. Knowledgeable consumers increase market attractiveness. Kids’ market research significance has been accepted by the industry. Analysis of Kids Market Consulting The major reasons for KMC’s success are the strengths and the competitive advantage. The strengths of the firm are internal factors that give it a competitive advantage. The potential risks are the threats it may face that come from the external environment (Ferrell Hartline, 2010). These factors can be analyzed using the SWOT analysis. SWOT analysis Factors that led KMC to succeed KMC succeeded because of external opportunities which came from the discovery of a new product. Kids’ market research was a segment that was despised for lacking marketability. Kids were considered to lack purchasing power (Taylor Vynogradov 2004). KMC had to carry out awareness programs to create a market niche for kids’ market research. KMC was able to change customer needs and tastes to match its product. Othe r external factors that led to its success are the large proportion of children in the population. Taylor Vynogradov (2004) report that 25% of the urban population consists of children. This made it significant for KMC’s customers to consider their potential for sales. KMC was able to succeed by offering a new product that firms in Ukraine thought lacked potential. Ukraine’s economic growth rate is another external factor that led to the success of KMC. It has been between 4% and 8% since 2000 (Taylor Vynogradov 2004). The average monthly wage ($86) is higher than the living minimum wage ($64). Ukraine may appear to have the purchasing power for more consumption. Ukraine’s unemployment rate has been lower between 2005 (7.185%) and 2008 (6.363%) than it was in other years (Ukraine Unemployment Rate, 2013). Its location in Kyiv gives the company an advantage of a larger customer base than in other cities. The knowledge about the Ukraine kids’ market is an other external factor that led KMC to succeed. Market unfamiliarity has slowed down international firms with a similar product from venturing into the Ukrainian market. Strengths are the internal factors that give a company competitive advantage (Ferrell Hartline, 2010). Differentiation is one of KMC’s strengths that led it to succeed. Specializing in the kids’ market gives it time to produce quality products that have created a strong brand image. Its brand is also reinforced by having partnerships with DDI. Ferrell Hartline (2010) explain that an alliance with other firms has potential for internal strength. The founder’s experience, expertise, and contacts made it easier for KMC to reach out to potential customers (Taylor Vynogradov 2004). The founder’s expertise and experience were significant in the success of the firm. As a result of this, KMC success may be attributed to superior management skills. Another internal factor that led to KMC’ s success is the ability to share costs with DDI firms (Taylor Vynogradov 2004). KMC was able to share offices, and human resources reducing its operational costs. The partnership made it less costly and easier for KMC to venture into the business. KMC was able to hire researchers who conduct surveys with assistance from DDI. It was able to produce quality products because of the alliance with DDI. There is mutual benefit where firms under DDI group are able to sell different products to the same customers. KMC is able to reduce costs by selling one product to several buyers (Taylor Vynogradov 2004). In the consolidated research strategy, the cost of developing the product remains constant while the revenues increase because of more buyers. The KMC reinvestment strategy has enabled it to obtain new technology. New technology enables the company to compete with large firms. Threats and weaknesses KMC main weakness is the lack of a strategic direction to increase growth and profitab ility. KMC market share appears to be consistent on a narrow product line (Ferrell Hartline, 2010). KMC relies only on one product. KMC should consider broadening its product line to include specific manufactured kids’ products, and specific manufacturing firms. It may increase product relevance to customers. It may increase their need to purchase its services, and documented products. Another weakness is that KMC has a few full-time employees compared to potential competitors. Taylor Vynogradov (2004) discuss that KMC has only 5 full-time employees. Gfk reports that it has 170 full-time employees in the Ukraine market research industry (GfkUkraine, 2012). A lower number of employees may reduce costs but it may also be the cause of the slow growth rate. A company is able to broaden its services with more dedicated employees. Employee commitment also increases the quality of product. Threats develop from external factors such as the firms offering undifferentiated products m ay choose to offer a similar product. For example, Gfk has a large number of employees and other resources (Gfk Ukraine, 2012). It may find it easier to dedicate some of its resources to develop a similar product. It is a market leader and has a strong brand image. It is likely to capture a larger market share than KMC in the kids’ market research segment. The KMC product life cycle could face a decline stage if new rivalry develops before it finds new market or new strategy (Taylor Vynogradov, 2004). If other firms venture into the kids’ market research, it is likely to be saturated within a short period. Future of the KMC Large companies may develop similar products to KMC. If they may target the same market segment, KMC market share is likely to reduce. The founder should continue with the plans to expand geographically to ensure growth of the company. The first geographic location the company should venture into should be the Russian market. It is 10 times bigger than that of Ukraine (Taylor Vynogradov 2004). Klimenko Harrison (2013) discusses that the Russian market was about $300million to $310 million in 2008. KMC is likely to grow 10 times if it invests the right amount of resources. In Russia, the top six market research companies had total revenues that amounted to about USD 40 million in 2003 (Tsoy, 2005). The medium sized companies that earn between USD 0.3 million to 1 million were about 25 companies in 2003. KMC may fall into this category. The industry appears saturated but KMC can perform better because of the uniqueness of its product. In Russia, the medium and small market research companies owned about 30% to 35% market share in 2003. Demand in market research products was expected to grow between 30% and 50% (Tsoy 2005). KMC is likely to create a market segment that fits its product. The Ukrainian social environment is almost similar to that in Russia. As a result of market similarity, KMC may have a lesser challenge coping with a new market. There is an expected growth in demand that may keep large companies focused on their product mix rather than venture into KMC’s product line. KMC has developed a strong brand image. It focuses on specialization and product quality (Taylor Vynogradov 2004). It also has a loyal customer base. As a result these factors, KMC should be able to face rivalry with its current market position. It can maintain its customers if it ensures accuracy of surveys to develop quality products. It can also limit rivalry by having most of its employees working full-time. It can avoid having the same employees working for competitors. If the same employees work for competitors, product qualities are likely to be similar. The competition would go to competitive pricing. With higher quality products, KMC can manage to maintain the same level of market share while competitors look for new customers. KMC should also consider increasing the length of its product mix. It can be don e by broadening to services that are closely associated with understanding children’s behavior. KMC can also develop products that target specific manufactured products, and then market them to the companies involved in the manufacturing of the products. Conclusion KMC should keep its product quality to be higher than the other companies to maintain the same level of market share, and to overcome competitive pricing. If large companies with a stronger brand image such Gfk enter its market segment, KMC is likely to lose part of its market share. However, it can still maintain higher quality than Gfk because of its complete product differentiation. KMC should consider venturing into the Russian market because it has a higher demand growth forecast that firms may be unable to satisfy. Its product uniqueness also favors its entry into many other countries. If KMC expands in Russia, there is a large space to fill before its market segment is saturated. The Ukrainian research marke t appears to be attractive because the market leader, Gfk, has an average annual growth of 38% for the last ten years (Gfk Ukraine, 2013). It shows that with more resources KMC can grow even without venturing into new geographical locations. KMC is likely to continue benefitting from the manager’s expertise, and experience in the industry. KMC may appear a small company, but DDI as a group is a large company. KMC may benefit from the alliance through brand image, and ability to sell different products to the same customers. Reference List Cant, C. M., Strydom, W. J., Jooste, J. C., Du Plessis, J. P. (2009). Marketing Management. Cape Town: Juta Company. Ferrell, O., Hartline, M. (2010). Marketing Strategy (5th ed.). Mason: South-Western Cengage Learning. Gfk Ukraine. (2012). Growth from Knowledge. Retrieved from http://www.gfk.ua/imperia/md/content/gfkukraine/presentations/gfk_ukr_comp_p resentation_eng.pdf Index of Economic Freedom. (2013). Retrieved from http://www.herit age.org/index/country/ukraine Klimenko, T., Harrison, M. (2013). Business-to-Business Market Research in Russia. Retrieved from http://www.b2binternational.com/publications/white- papers/russian-market-research/ McDonald, M., Wilson, H. (2011). Marketing Plans: How to Prepare Them, How to Use Them (7th ed.). Chichester: John Wiley Sons. Taylor, S., Vynagradov, O. (2004). Kids Market Consulting. London: Ivey Management Services. Tsoy, Y. M. (2005). The Analysis of Marketing Research Industry in Russia, KORUS. 6 (1), 953-956. Ukraine Inflation Rate. (2013). Retrieved from http://www.tradingeconomics.com/ukraine/inflation-cpi Ukraine Unemployment Rate. (2013). Retrieved from http://world-economic- outlook.findthedata.org/l/5835/Ukraine Appendices Exhibit 1 Factors considered in market attractiveness (Cant et al. 2009). Market attractiveness Competitive position Market/customer factors Size of market- 5 to 20 million USD Market potential- mature The growth rate of market- mark et leader grows by an average of 38% annually Stage in life cycle- maturity Diversity of competitive offerings- undifferentiated products Current customer loyalty- KMC has a strong brand image/built customer confidence Price elasticity- unknown but likely Bargaining power of customers- currently is low for KMC Seasonality of demand- likely Market position factors Relative market share- unknown Rate of change in market share (increasing or decreasing) – slow growth Perceived actual or potential differentiation- actual product differentiation Breadth of current or planned product mix- single product line Company image- strong brand image Economic and technological factors Investment intensity (heavy/medium/low) – considered medium because of costly analysis software and personnel but no plant Level and maturity of technology utilization- high Ability to pass through effects of inflation- low inflation rate about 0.3% Barriers to entry/exit- expertise and other fo rms of capital Access to raw materials- less influential Economic and technological factors Relative cost position- high Capacity utilization- high considering it uses freelancers Technological position- high Patented technology (product or technology) – none except brand Competitive factors Industry structure- saturated Competitive groupings- multiple Threats from substitution- likely Perceived differentiation among competitors- less differentiation Individual competitors’ strengths- Gfk has resources and a strong brand Possibility of new entrants- likely Capabilities of organization Management strength and depth- highly skilled Financial resources- support from DDI RD capabilities- unknown Marketing skills/strengths- good Sales force- unknown Distribution network- unknown Labor relations- unknown Relations with regulators- good Environmental factors Regulatory climate- UMA, a self-regulatory body Degree of social acceptance- customer is well-informed Synergy with other segments Market synergy- ability to benefit from growth in other fields such as psychology and statistics Operational synergy- DDI group Exhibit 2 The net income of global companies for the year 2003 as reported by Taylor Vynogradov (2004) Firm Total income Net income Profit margin Gfk $747m $41.8m 5.6% IPSOS S.A. $564.3m $7.5m 1.3% VNU N.V. $4.9b $163.1m 3.3% Exhibit 3 Gfk revenues and estimated growth rate from 2001 to 2011. Retrieved from http://www.gfk.ua/imperia/md/content/gfkukraine/presentations/gfk_ukr_comp_presentation_eng.pdf Year Growth rate% 2001 – 2002 43.9 2003 116.4 2004 58.9 2005 37.5 2006 27.7 2007 14.3 2008 54.2 2009 1.4 2010 18.7 2011 12.8 Average growth rate 38.8% Exhibit 4 Ukraine’s inflation rate as retrieved from http://www.tradingeconomics.com/ukraine/inflation-cpi This report on KMC and market attractiveness was written and submitted by user Sebastian Berg to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.

Using Broach and Brooch Correctly

Using Broach and Brooch Correctly The words broach and brooch are homophones: theyre pronounced the same but have different meanings.   Definitions As a verb, broach means to pierce, break into, or open up. The verb broach also means to introduce (a topic) for discussion or make (something) known for the first time. As a noun, broach refers to a tapered cutting tool or a hole made by such a tool. The noun brooch refers to an ornamental pin thats usually worn at the neck. The two words are pronounced alike: brÃ… ch (rhymes with coach). Examples The best time to broach the topic of a raise is on a slow day at work.The broach has a series of cutting teeth along the axis of the tool.Humphrey Pump plunged down again into the sunken nest and began to  broach the cask  of rum in his own secret style, saying We can get something else somehow tomorrow. For tonight we can eat cheese and drink rum, especially as theres water on tap, so to speak.(G.K. Chesterton,  The Flying Inn, 1914)The princess wore a diamond brooch the size of a silver dollar. Usage Notes A brooch, a decorative pin or clip, is nothing like a broach. But since theyre often pronounced alike, and because ignorance never rests, some dictionaries accept broach as an alternative spelling of brooch.(Jane Straus,  et al.,  The Blue Book of Grammar and Punctuation, 11th ed. Jossey-Bass, 2014)If you broach something, you are suggesting that it is a valid topic for possible further discussion. If you wear a brooch on your dress, you hope that it will attract attention because of its beauty, and therefore, of course, attract attention to you who are wearing the brooch.(David Rothwell, Dictionary of Homonyms. Wordsworth, 2007 ) Practice (a) Because Ms. Widmark said she was there on business, the lawyer felt he should _____ the matter of his fees. (b) Marie wore the emerald _____ that she had inherited from her grandmother. Answers Answers to Practice Exercises:  Broach and Brooch (a) Because Ms. Widmark said she was there on business, the lawyer felt he should  broach  the matter of his fees.(b) Marie wore the emerald  brooch  that she had inherited from her grandmother.

7 Highest Paying Bachelor Degrees

7 Highest Paying Bachelor Degrees Everybody wants to go straight from school into a high-paying career. The trouble is, how can we maximize our chances? The best bet would be to choose a degree that syncs up nicely with the highest-paying careers out there. That way you’ll be set up with the most relevant skills right out of the gate. Here are 7 highest paying bachelor degrees that can steer you into a good job.1. Health Care AdministrationThe health care industry is always at the top of the heap: there’s lots of growth and lots of jobs, many high-paying. Training resources are widely available, and the demand for this kind of work just keeps increasing.You’ll have a relatively easy time finding employment once you’re finished with school. If you’re not ready to commit yet, try a couple of classes in anatomy, statistics, accounting, or physiology and see what you think.2. Computer ScienceNo matter what field you want to end up in, a degree in computer science can really set you up t o stand out at the forefront of the technological vanguard. Whether it’s web building or design, software engineering, A.I., you’ll already have a major foundation laid towards building your career.Most jobs requiring a comp sci degree also pay very well. Try a class or two in computer engineering, computer math, or digital system design if you’re not sure.3. Civil EngineeringYou like to build things, design things, dream big. Fix problems that befuddle everybody else! Make the world a better, more ergonomic place? The country is in sore need of an infrastructure reboot, so jobs requiring a civil engineering degree are going to spike. Good to get in early doors! Try a couple of courses in dynamics, engineering economics, or fluid mechanism for a start. There are lots of others, depending on your school’s catalogue.4. NursingLike Health Care Administration, no matter what you do with a degree in nursing, you’re almost guaranteed a well-paying job. N urses are the backbone of the whole industry. They’re the ones doing 90% of the patient care.If you like all things medicine and really enjoy helping people, try a few courses in chemistry, physiology, anatomy, psychology, or mental health and see if you’d like to pursue more.5. AccountingEverybody needs an accountant–from individuals to small businesses to huge corporations. If you’re good at math and financial systems, this might be a great opportunity for you. The further up the ladder you go as an accountant, the higher the pay. There are lots of accounting courses, and courses on tax and business law that can help you decide if you feel the call.6. PsychologyEven as our reliance on technology increases, there is still a high demand for understanding human behavior. You don’t necessarily have to be a shrink if you get a degree in psychology; you could work for large corporations, in HR, or in industrial relations†¦ the sky’s the lim it. The more emphasis is placed on marketing trends and analysis, the more the demand for those with psychological training will increase.Try out some neuroscience, with some statistical methods, and some perception vs. sensation classes to see how it feels to you.7. Business AdministrationIf you have a bit of the entrepreneurial spirit, this might be a great degree for you. Certainly it will stand you in good stead if you’d like to create and build your own business one day. This degree will give you the planning experience and knowledge to back up all your dreaming and big ideas. Start with classes in financial or operations management, systems and accounting, and other business and marketing topics to prepare yourself.