Response: Will Google Docs kill off Microsoft Office?

Microsoft Office has been the stable program for users ranging from students to business owners for years. It will not be easily replaced. But Google Docs is slowly working its way into Microsoft Office’s territory. With similar programs available, many users are utilizing Google Docs more and more.

Personally, I’m still unfamiliar to the newer program, but many organizations have begun organizing event sign-up and putting up meeting agendas on Google Docs. One competitive advantage they have is the ability to change and save edits, allowing other users to see the additions to documents. It makes event sign-up and group projects a lot more efficient and effective. On the other hand, users are limited to those holding gmail accounts thus creating an inconvenience to consumers, whereas Microsoft is available to anyone who purchases the program. Which leads to the final point: Google Docs is free whereas Microsoft Office requires downloading fees. In conclusion, though Google Docs has numerous potential possibilities for growth, Microsoft Office is still a strong competitor.

Mariska’s original blog post: Will Google Docs kill off Microsoft Office?

Pictures: Eastman, Dick. “Eastman’s Online Genealogy Newsletter.” ‘Eastman’s Online Genealogy Newsletter’ N.p., 20 May 2011. Web. 18 Nov. 2013.

“Standard Microsoft Office Courses.” Universal Solutions 4 Business Standard Microsoft Office Courses Comments. Universal Solutions 4 Business, n.d. Web. 18 Nov. 2013.

Response: “15-Year-Old Entrepreneur is changing the world UndrTheRadr”

Wow. Look at what can become of a simple idea. Whoever said age matters? Aanikh Kier is the perfect example of the “live in the future; create what’s missing” concept of entrepreneurship. Not only did he come up with the idea, but took the chance and took the next step: actually making his idea come to life. With this new innovative technological mini-breakthrough, Kier proved that “any idea could potentially be the next million dollar idea” as long as you have the determination and patience to nurture and develop it. Stepping into “Dragon’s Den” was the turning point for Kier’s business. There, he pitched his heart out, all the while keeping in mind his ultimate mission: to educate youth around the world.

In addition, every download of this app donates money to Free The Children. Kier is successfully demonstrating CSR in his company, by giving back to the organization he’s always been a part of.

Evan Chang’s original blog post: 15-Year-Old Entrepreneur is changing the world UndrTheRadr

Pictures: “Android Apps on Google Play.” Android Apps on Google Play. Google, n.d. Web. 18 Nov. 2013.

Chinese Online-Video Market: Largest, Most Innovative and Competitive

The Chinese are a force to be reckoned with when it comes to technology development and business growth. Statistics shown in the graph below are a representation of how fast the Chinese online video market is growing each year.

Since YouTube is blocked in China, sites such as Tudou seized the opportunity and began their online video-streaming empire. They offer free streaming of TV shows, dramas and movies to viewers. As long as you have internet connection and a computer, you’re set. The sites generate revenue by selling advertisements, forcing the viewer to sit through the ads before the start of each episode.

 

Similar to the Netflix debate, these Chinese websites have began to create their own shows, which have been surprisingly popular. As well as progressing to offering the installation of internet-enabled set-up boxes for internet-enabled television, which will be a huge business advancement.

Article: The Economist. “Online Video in China: The Chinese Stream.” The Economist. The Economist Newspaper Limited, 09 Nov. 2013. Web. 13 Nov. 2013.

Pictures:

“CHINICT – Tech Stars Meet In China – Media Partners.” CHINICT RSS. N.p., n.d. Web. 14 Nov. 2013.

Szalai, Georg. “Chinese Online Video Giant Youku Completes Acquisition of Tudou.”The Hollywood Reporter. The Hollywood Reporter, 27 Aug. 2012. Web. 14 Nov. 2013.

“Chinese Spent More Time Watching Video on Computers & Mobile Than TV.”China Internet Watch. N.p., 07 Dec. 2011. Web. 14 Nov. 2013.

 

 

 

Lululemon founder Chip Wilson says pants ‘don’t work’ for some bodies

Controversy regarding Lululemon’s workout pants have been brewing throughout the year, and now founder Chip Wilson has decided to contribute another reason as to why their products are pilling: the pants just don’t work on some body types. Is this comment a jab at women who are plus-sized? The debate has been split into two sides, as per usual, with one being the shocked audience who are offended by Wilson’s words; while the other are unaffected and don’t take the comment personally. I found this news intriguing, as we had recently discussed Lululemon’s CSR propositions in class. WIlson’s comment greatly contradicts the company’s vision for people to live long, healthy and fun lives. Though their brand is creating shared value and trying to expand total profit while being socially responsible, is it really ethical for the founder of the company to be implying that their products shouldn’t be worn by plus-size women? Just a simple comment like that could potentially harm Lululemon’s image, which would lead to a decrease in demand for their products.

Lululemon Yoga Pants Uproar

Wilson’s Apology Falls to Silent Critics

Through this news story, we can see how CSR and creating shared value also establishes a loyal consumer base and brand name. Therefore, the maintenance of  their value propositions could make or break a company.

Article: CBC News. “Lululemon Founder Chip Wilson Says Pants ‘don’t Work’ for Some Bodies.” CBC News. CBC/Radio Canada, 07 Nov. 2013. Web. 13 Nov. 2013.

Picture: Canadian Press. “Lululemon Pants Recall Will Hurt Company’s Bottom Line.”Beacon News. Beacon Press, 21 Mar. 13. Web. 14 Nov. 2013.

Private investor takes cosmetics company to next level

Experience investors are now looking for small businesses that have an already-established consumer market and leadership potential. Lee Graff, founder of Cover FX, found her private investors “through serendipity”. (On a side note, I remember Brian Wong, founder of Kiip, said just the other day in his video that he now lives by “generating serendipity”. Then this intriguing term was mentioned again today with the Arc Initiative and Tesfaye’s story. After looking up the definition, it’s interesting to see the connection between “happy accidents” and “entrepreneurship.)

Ms. Graff’s cosmetic company caught the eye of her current investment partners due to three checklist characteristics. First, a highly specific consumer need. As discussed in the lecture about entrepreneurship, a business idea generates from an “itch you just have to scratch” and that’s exactly what she did. She wanted a product that looks as natural as human skin, but also provides coverage for various skin complications. By experimenting, testing and developing with a dermatologist, Graff finally created a line of products that suit specific needs of each unique individual. Second, the ability to work with powerful and influential investors. By stepping out of her comfort zone and taking a risk, she brought one of the founders of MAC Cosmetics on board her business plan. And finally, her products have the potential to compete on a larger scale with big brand names, such as L’Oreal. Profit in the cosmetic industry signalled Ms. Graff to enter with her innovative products, creating competition for other brand names. Of course, it’s difficult for her company to grow. This is where the private investor jumps in. Their firm can offer her an opportunity to grow and expand her business.

About Cover FX

Article:  Loewen, Jacoline. “Private Investor Takes Cosmetics Company to next Level.” The Globe and Mail. N.p., 12 Nov. 2013. Web. 13 Nov. 2013.

Picture: “Beauty Tips, Hairstyles, Makeup Tutorials and Reviews | Beautylish.” Beautylish. N.p., n.d. Web. 14 Nov. 2013.

Ultimate recognition: Chucking a Frisbee is becoming a serious sport, and a lucrative business

Leagues such as the NFL or NBA are recognized world-wide and extremely popular amongst sports fanatics, with the professional players earning a considerate living. But according to this article, ultimate frisbee is beginning to find its way into the world stage. Unfortunately, many still do not recognize “ultimate” as an official sport, though it has numerous platforms, such as Major League Ultimate (MLU), World Flying Disc Federation (WFDF) and USA Ultimate (USAU). All these organizations have been working to professionalize the sport, as it is equally as intense, competitive and entertaining as football or basketball. Companies such as Five Ultimate have been benefiting from the growth of the sport. With the goal of developing the sport to a sponsorship level for players to earn livings, there is a lot of work that still needs to go into popularizing ultimate frisbee.

 

Having previously played the sport personally, I feel that it is definitely one that has been looked over by many. Admittedly, before I joined my school team, I had no idea what the game was. That is why marketing the brand is so crucial to meeting the said goal, such as with brand positioning. What is different and exciting about “ultimate” that would attract fans? I also suggest investing in media advertisements and broadcasting games in order to introduce the sport to the world, for I have never seen commercials on TV advertising it. All in all, I believe that with the right marketing strategy and solid business plan, the sport will be able to be part of the big leagues one day.

MLU: Nighthawks Dogfish Highlights

Article: “Ultimate Recognition.” The Economist. N.p., 05 Oct. 2013. Web. 07 Oct. 2013.

Pictures:

“Major League Ultimate – Professional Ultimate Frisbee.” Major League Ultimate – Professional Ultimate Frisbee. N.p., n.d. Web. 08 Oct. 2013.

“Ultimate Recognition.” The Economist. N.p., 05 Oct. 2013. Web. 07 Oct. 2013.

Tim Hortons vows faster service to fend off rivals

Though Tim Hortons holds the title for the “best in class” fast-food high-margin coffee provider, the company still feels the pressure from rivals, such as McDonald’s, who has began expanding their coffee business as well. According to the new chief executive officer of the company, Marc Caira says that due to the excess variety of products they offer, slow service is resulting and thus diminishing the coffee and doughnut chain’s competitive chances. Referencing Porter’s Five Forces, the threat of substitutes is pushing Tim Hortons to develop rival strategies in order to keep up with other expanding fast-food restaurants. Mr. Caira pinpoints areas the company can improve on, mainly speeding up service and introducing “stand-out items”, and also proposes introducing more creative twists to their products to attract consumers.

Personally, I am a frequent customer to Tim Hortons, and when comparing them to McDonald’s, key differences such as a better reputation, image and healthier options come to mind. Of course, it’s never easy servicing the never-ending lunch rush and therefore, if the company is able to find a way to speed up service without sacrificing the current “always fresh” quality of their products, they definitely would continue to remain a strong competitor in the fast-food market.

Article: Strauss, Marina. “Tim Hortons Vows Faster Service to Fend off Rivals.” The Globe and Mail. N.p., 18 Sept. 2013. Web. 07 Oct. 2013.

Pictures: Airdrie News, Events, and More. N.p., n.d. Web. 08 Oct. 2013.

Facebook launches gift service…ventures into Amazon’s territory

In search for additional income streams, Facebook has launched a service that allows users to send physical gifts to friends with a few clicks as a new commerce strategy, venturing into Amazon.com Inc.’s online shopping territory. The social network has various partners supporting this new revenue stream, including Starbucks. Using the catchphrase “Real friends. Real gifts,” Facebook has evolved from virtual cards and presents to real items. Though Facebook still can’t compete with Amazon head on due to a less stable shipping and distribution infrastructure, it’s the first step to pushing the social network brand into broader markets.

Tying this new business plan to the business plan model canvas, Facebook is expanding in multiple aspects, such as customer relationships, key partners and resources, revenue streams and value propositions. Only time will tell whether the gift service option will be a success, but personally, I think it is an ingenious move by Facebook, creating convenience and more choices for its consumers.

Article: Dembosky, April. “Facebook Launches Gift Service, Ventures into Amazon’s Territory.”The Globe and Mail. N.p., 28 Sept. 2012. Web. 07 Oct. 2013.

Picture: “Facebook Unwraps Online Gift Store With Free Shipping Feature.” Www.gizbot.com/. N.p., 28 Sept. 2012. Web. 08 Oct. 2013.

Business Ethics: Toyota tried to cut costs on recalls

Toyota tries to cut costs on recalls – Los Angeles Times

February 22, 2010 | By Ken Bensinger

http://articles.latimes.com/2010/feb/22/business/la-fi-toyota-docs22-2010feb22

The title of the article is self-explanatory, but it drew my attention amongst the sea of headlines because the topic hits close to home. Toyota has been a brand my family has trusted for decades. It’s infuriating that such a well-known company would be trying to find ways out of safety regulation, even ones issued by the federal government. Referencing Edward Freeman’s Stakeholder Theory: a successful company takes all the stakeholders into account and strives to benefit consumers and investors alike. What happened to the morals and values when it comes to management of Toyota? The document of “wins for Toyota” outlining various accomplishments in saving money and labour by “negotiating, stalling or outright avoiding the issues is proof that the safety of customers has yet to out-weight the importance of profit. Even when the reoccurring problem of sudden acceleration continues to be the cause of numerous accidents, the recall only identified 2 minor issues with minimal costs for the company when officials believe the problem is on a much larger scale. In conclusion, the fact that the credibility of a trusted brand is not being upheld is hard to digest for loyal customers.