The proposed pipeline project by Enbridge Inc. has met much resistance from the BC government, environmental groups and the First Nations. This $7.9-billion project will transport hundreds of thousands of barrels of oil to the west coast to then be exported to foreign markets. Environmental groups have argued that the risks of an oil spill outweigh any of the benefits. However, First Nations groups are strongly opposed to the project due to the fact that much of the pipeline would run through aboriginal land. This brings forth many issues surrounding land rights and distribution of profits. Due to many legal acts, Enbridge is unable to move forward until an agreement can be met with the First Nations groups.

The various First Nations groups ultimately represent an external factor which has substantially impacted the Enbridge business model. Stunting the development of this project, Enbridge is faced with the task of acknowledging this factor and evaluating the best course of action. Respect for the traditions and values of the First Nations are an extremely important element which must be taken into consideration. Enbridge has succeeded in creating certain opportunities that are “aligned with the aspirations of Aboriginal communities”. Providing training and work experiences for many of the younger people living on the reserves is only one way in which Enbridge is seeking to positively impact the First Nations groups. Enbridge has recognized this external factor and is clearly responding by taking steps towards bridging the gap and building a beneficial relationship with the First Nations.

References:

http://www.enbridge.com/Viewer.aspx?id=6F0BADF73EFF4F0F87B9F8B3CD70CE81

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/globe-debate/first-nations-hold-the-key-to-the-northern-gateway-pipeline/article19213035/

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/british-columbia/bc-to-northern-gateway-no/article19213866/

Netflix has revolutionized the way people watch TV and are entertained. As a video streaming company, Netflix has assisted in eliminating the need for physical movie rental options. However, Netflix is now proving to be a competitive threat against cable companies and broadcasters. Forced to reevaluate their business models, cable companies have two major disadvantages when compared to Netflix. Firstly, Netflix offers their product for only $8.99, whereas most cable companies are forced to sell packaged deals for a price starting at $30. Furthermore, one contributing factor to Netflix’s success is the fact that it is not regulated by CRTC. This is a substantial upper hand for Netflix as it is able to provide the content demanded by consumers without any restrictions. Due to the fact that many Netflix subscribers also utilize satellite service, competition is for the moment relatively stable.

References:

http://business.financialpost.com/2014/09/01/how-netflix-inc-is-forcing-canadian-cable-companies-to-up-their-game/?__lsa=0826-a7e9

Operations are an important aspect to any business. Operations oversee the making, transformation and delivery of a product or service. Within operations there are several key principles which contribute to maximizing profit through efficiency. A process is a principle which represents the set of actions taken from the initial through to the final stages.

Starbucks is an example of a successful corporation who has recognized the importance of efficient processes and implemented changes in the structure of their procedures. Since 2008, Starbucks has strategically improved productivity growth and rates of customer transactions per hour. Through training employees and assigning specific roles to each barista on the floor, Starbucks has created an environment of efficiency and ease.

Through my own personal experience as a barista at Starbucks, I learned many of the procedures it takes to run a Starbucks store proficiently. There are particular sequences and steps in which drinks should be made which follow the guidelines of steaming milk, cuing shots, pumping syrup, finishing and finally connecting with the customer. Furthermore, Barista’s are assigned to different tasks throughout a shift in order to be both effective and efficient.

References:

http://qz.com/149995/starbucks-is-now-selling-46-more-things-an-hour-than-it-was-five-years-ago/

http://www.businessweek.com/magazine/content/09_33/b4143028813542.htm

http://www.purdueexponent.org/campus/article_62cbc9ad-ac19-54a0-a0e6-73035ad4468b.html