Instant Noodle Consumption Behaviour

Instant Noodle Consumption Behaviour During the economic recession, consumers have to spend more economically and change their consumption behavior. Food which people around the world initially thinks of and enables people to save more is instant noodles which are very cheap and have diversified brands and flavors. Therefore, the instant noodle market can make a lot of money when compared with other consumption goods because consumers like to buy and store the instant noodles during the economic recession period. Almost every family in Thailand always store and eats the instant noodles as a meal or emergency food. When people are hungry at night and they want to save money, the instant noodles are their first choice. The study of Nano Search Co., Ltd showed that, at present, consumers buy and eat the instant noodles with which they have been familiar or a long time. Thai people in all ages know the instant noodles in diversified brands and original and new flavors which meet consumers need. Most students at Rajamangala University of Technology Thanyaburi (RMUTT) have domiciles in various provinces while some students houses are from the university. Therefore, they have to live in the dormitories outside and inside the university. As most students have no incomes, they have to save their expenditure on consumption. Therefore, the instant noodles are their first choice because there are several brands and original and new flavors of the instant noodles which meet consumers need. Therefore, the idea to learn about what events or factors affecting the consumption of instant noodles students. 2. Statement of the research The report is interested in purchasing behavior of the students at Rajamangala University of Technology Thanyaburi. The research is conducted within RMUTT and data collection will be gathered from RMUTT student. 3. Research Objectives Objective of this research are listed as below; 1. To study the reason for the purchase of instant noodles students. 2. To study the advertising is to attract the consumption of instant noodles students. 3. To study the satisfaction of the students in the appropriate price and quality. 4. To study the satisfaction and popularity of the student with flavor of instant noodles. 4. Scope of the Research We will study about instant noodles consumption behavior of Rajamangala University of Technology Thanyaburi Students by making selected representative sample of 100 people resided in dormitories of internal and external university to take Questionnaires on various topics related to the purchase of instant noodles such as the reason for the purchase, advertising of instant noodle, appropriate price and quality and flavor of student satisfaction.. We will collect data to analyze the behavior of students instant noodle consumption. 5. Limitations of the Research Problem of data errors may have findings that do not match reality because the university has students many which representative samples are less than 10% of all students. Researcher still has limitations in terms of research and duration of storage could not increase the number of representative samples. 6. Significance of the Study Significance of the Study about instant noodles consumption behavior of Rajamangala University of Technology Thanyaburi Students. To know what the factors affecting consumption of students and students have any opinion about the instant noodles today. To manufacturers and distributors preliminary results of this study can be used as guidelines for improvement of instant noodles better and for this research will enable students consume Instant noodles even more desirable. Provided the problem and make suggestions, manufacturer and distributor of lead analysis and action. 7. Definition of Terms 1. Instant noodles means : Product line consisting of noodles or cooked and partially cooked. Garniture different flavor. Oil and seasoning in the appropriate ratio. Packed in small envelopes. Total containers and packaging in the same Cook without eating more than five minutes. 2. Economic recession means : Lower economic growth sluggish start trading conditions. Sellers are less Operators to reduce production losses due. Consequences are the termination of employment. 3. Changing consumer behavior means : That the expression of individuals directly related to the use of products and economic waiter. Process, including decisions affecting expression. Chapter 2 Review or related literature and studies 2.1Definition and Features of the Independent Variables Instant noodle is very famous in Thailand. It has variety of brand and target to many age ranges. Many children love to eat instant noodle especially not when they are not boiled. They eat it as snacks. Instant noodles sold in ready-to-prepare packages area popular industrially processed food in Thailand. Six million packages are produced each day, 80% of which are made by only three companies. Most are consumed domestically, although they are also exported. In 1993instant noodle consumption in Thailand was 30 packs per capita [Anonymous. Reaching the masses. Asia Pacific Food Industry 1996;8:38-45.]. Over 90% of these instant noodles are of the deep-fried type, which are sometimes classified by academics as junk food due to their high salt, fat, and carbohydrate content and low-quality protein. Therefore, the label on the package suggests adding meat or egg and vegetables, which is the traditional mode of eating noodles in Thailand. However, because of inconvenience, this suggestion is seldom practiced by consumers. Both males and females aged 15 to 49 years from all socio-economic strata in Thailand consume instant noodles. The consumption of the products according to the countrys regions and zones is shown in table 1. Forty-one percent of the products are consumed in Bangkok, at the same percentages as in up-country rural areas. TABLE 1. Regional and zonal percent distributions of instant noodles Location Percentage Regions Bangkok 41 Central 17 North 18 North-East 18 South 7 Zones Bangkok 41 Rest of country Urban 18 Rural 41 Source: Thai President Foods Public Company Limited, Bangkok,Thailand, 1996. There are many brands present i.e. MAMA, WAI WAI, YUM YUM, and etc. The instant noodle war is very competitive. As the data on 21st June, 2010, the leader brand is MAMA of Thai President Food. It has market share 53 percent or around 5,000 Million Baht. Meanwhile WAI WAI- the market follower of Thai Preserved Food Factory takes only 25 percent [www.banmuang.co.th]. For MAMA cup, it has been grown by 50% when compare with the sales at the same period last year. That is the highest sales volume during last 20 years. The growth in market value leaped in significant level in last 6 years, as seen in below table. Year Market Value (Million Baht) Percentage 2005 9,500 2006 10,000 5.26% 2007 11,500 15.00% 2008 12,000 4.35% 2009 10,000 -16.67% 2010 10,300 3.00% 2.2 Theories Related to the Independent Variable(s) Health awareness Health becomes a hot issue for todays talk. There are many reports and news that related to health care. People are concern to health more than past. As we can see from the product which has sold in the market, they are presented as organic product, non-chemical products and many things those were labeled as chemical-free. There are some supermarkets that has organic corner. Moreover a corner in the supermarket, there are supermarkets those sell only organic food- Whole Food grocery shop. Whole food has dedicate all the store are to organic because there are many customer that want to use organic product as we can see from the sales revenue. The revenue of Whole food has climbed up every year. It has increased by 70% in past 4 year (Fiscal Year 2005 2009, source www.wholefood.com). It means there are many people interested in health more and more. Furthermore this trend is still increasing. Purchasing behavior of consumers. The aim of this research is to found out what the marketing mix variables that have significant influence toward instant noodle buying decision and also to found out the marketing mix variables that have dominant influence toward instant noodle buying decision based on the problem formulation, research background and suggested theoretical fundamental, hypothesis are formulated: it is estimate that the marketing mix variables consist of product, price, promotion and distribution have the significant influence toward instant noodle buying decision and it is estimate that promotion And it is a factor in decision making of RMUTT student. The Appropriate prices of Instant noodles. The study found that instant noodles are a low cost of production is sold on the cheap, but in terms of food quality noodles are semi-successful low nutritional value, if too many consumers will negatively impact the body. Student RMUTT take into account the price and quality rather than quantity of food. The nutritional value is not enough. The instant noodle market is growing fast in RMUTT, and is gaining popularity in the market. Wheat flour which is usually used to make instant noodles is not only low in fiber and protein contents but also poor in essential amino acid lysine 2.3 Critical Analysis/Discussion of the Theories Related to the Dependent Variables While my group is studying with protein, fiber and low in the instant noodle. People who had previously studying is Prof. Dr. Siri loyal Poe Secretariat of the Food and Drug Administration. Disclosed that according to the news media. From newspapers to explore the sodium condiments, instant noodles, Journal of intelligent shopping Foundation. To find that consumers have high sodium content of 50-100% of your body needs each day.Thai consumers need to carefully the Office of the Food and Drug Administration. As a regulatory agency that controls the safety of food products. Including semi-finished food products sold into the market. Ask for clarification. Consumers knowledge of food semi. The only instant noodle. Thai people of all ages consuming instant noodles that the organized food quality or standards. The safety requirements, such as microbes that may not cause disease of toxic substances. And the nutritional requirements. Protein must be at least 8.5 percent by weight. In additi on to the elements in the noodle flour oil / fat and seasonings. With sodium salts. MSG is also the case with Do. Has determined that sodium Thais aged six and over should receive not exceed 2,400 milligrams per day. This is consistent with the values that the United States. 2.4 Discussion of the Dependent Variables Health awareness Food safety is an important issue that has shown a thoughtful effect on the consumers behavior in the food industry. Also the growing awareness about health wellness play an important role in influencing the consumers demand for healthy food products. People are concern to health more and more every day. Junk food is suggested not to take too much especially taking balance dietary. Also many organizations promote health awareness to the public. Regular breakfast eating, physical activity and regular sleep patterns were associated with good Quality of life among early adolescents [Chen, 2005]. Unhealthy sleep habits are increasing and related to several other behavioral and emotional problems among children [Lui et al, 2002]. Purchasing behavior of consumers First Noodle flour makers in East and Southeast Asia tend to favor white wheats for making certain oriental noodles, a large and growing consumer item in the region. U.S. soft white wheat has good characteristics for making some of these noodles. However, some types of oriental noodles require a hard white wheat, of which the U.S. produces little. Australia is the favored supplier of hard white wheats for such noodles. Now, hard white wheat varieties are being developed for U.S. farmers that would be competitive with Australian varieties for this noodle market [Huo, Guotran, Miskelly, D.M, Park, W.J., D.R. Shelton, C.J. Peterson, T.J. Martin, S.D. Kachman, and R.L. Wehling,1998]. Next to the Malaysian government recently introduced a ban on fast food advertisements targeting children on television. This study reports on data covering 6 months of television food advertising targeting children. Six out of seven of the Nations commercial television networks participated[Asia Pac J Clin Nutr ,2008] while This paper is an attempt to use Korean ramyeon to examine some of the major issues in the study of food and culture. In Japan, as in Korea, ramen and ramyeon not only came to find loyal consumers and occupy significant places in the food culture of both countries, but also began to cross national boundaries to find fans and markets in China and other countries. The Chinese noodle has come home, after a hundred-year-long voyage to and from Japan via Korea. Korean ramyeon is a class confuser that, instead of delineating and reinforcing class distinctions, seems to confuse and modify them. I propose to introduce the concept of ramyeo nization. This process is found in the increase of new forms of instant food sold in plastic packages, and also involves the dominance of hot and spicy taste in Korean cuisine [Beadsworth, Alan, and Teresa Keil ,1997]Moreover strategies for customer-oriented product development are an essential strategy for remaining competitive in a highly competitive business environment with changing markets. This research used instant rice noodles as a representative food product in a highly competitive market. The two main objectives were to analyze attitude and value awareness on target customers of instant rice noodle and to evaluate the potential of using Quality Function Deployment (QFD) in the product development process. The most important of product technical specifications found from QFD were packaging material, noodle rehydration time, and package form [Kasetsart J.,2006] in addition foods stuffs requiring extensive preparation are being replaced by convenience products that require li ttle time, energy, or preparation Food companies constantly invest in research and development of new convenience foods to make daily life easier for consumers. The objective of this study is to determine whether the demand for convenience foods is growing around the globe [Buckley, M., C. Cowan, and M. McCarthy., 2007] likewise apart from paying attention to product quality and usability, consumers enjoy the package design of the product when purchasing commodities. Other relevant research has pointed out that using an illustration in the package design can draw more attention to the product. Based on the results of that previous research, this research finds that having illustrations in the package design is one of the factors which influence buying emotion [Ahtola, O. T., Batra, R. and Atayman, D. M., Donovan, R. J. and Rossiter, J. R.,2007] next The Analysis of Marketing mix variabels Influence toward Instant Noodle Buying Decision of Mie Sedaap Brand (Study on Students in 3rd C ampus of Muhammadiyah Malang University)? The aim of this research is to found out what the marketing mix variables that have significant influence toward instant noodle buying decision of Mie Sedaap brand and also to found out the marketing mix variables that have dominant influence toward instant noodle buying decision of Mie Sedaap brand. and it is estimate that promotion it is estimate that the marketing mix variables consist of product, price, promotion and distribution have the significant influence toward instant noodle buying decision of Mie Sedaap brand. While the variable that have dominant influence toward instant noodle buying decision of Mie Sedaap brand is product variable[Bauran pemasaran, Mie Sedaap] in addition with sustained income growth and fast urbanization, Indonesia will see a major shift in the growth of grain consumption from rice to wheat products. New demand estimates from consumption survey data give a relatively high income elasticity of demand for wheat -based products with dependable supply; product quality assurance, and credit availability, North American suppliers may still remain in this market[Jacinto F. Fabiosa,2006] next confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) was used for examining micro structural differences resulted from different steaming time in modern instant noodles production. Thus, fundamental understanding of microscopic spatial arrangement between starch and protein affected by steaming time in instant noodles processing could be achieved via CLSM[Lynn, A. and M.P. Cochrane.,1997] finally noodles are widely consumed throughout the world and their global consumption is second only to bread. The instant noodle market is growing fast in Asian countries, and is gaining popularity in the Western market. Wheat flour which is usually used to make instant noodles is not only low in fibre and protein contents but also poor in essential amino acid lysine. Australian sweet lupin, a low cost grain legume, is becoming popu lar in various food applications as it is rich in fibre and protein[Anonymous. ,2008] Appropriate price of Instant noodles First, the noodles manufacturing is facing fierce competition domestically because of rapid development of alternative food. The instant noodle market is reaching maturity status, slowing growth. That is to say, operators have to develop new products to spur buying sentiment. To avoid competition, operators should build a sound brand image and reinforce marketing strategies and brands to increase sales. A large degree of overlap in noodle products should exhort firms to improve their abilities to control costs in order to ensure profits.Moreover, operators should also rely on joint purchases to deal with soaring prices of raw materials. First-tier firms may rely on parent companies resources, while small and medium enterprises on joint-purchases to lower costs [F.Z.AHMADI_ESFAHANI R>G>STANMORE,2006]. Next the cost of a 55-g package of instant noodles is only 3.50 to 4.00 baht (US$0.14-0.16), whereas one serving of Thai fast food costs at least 10-15 baht (US$ 0.50-0.60). This price increased in October 1996 after remaining at about 3.00 baht (US$0.12) for almost 16 years. The price was previously fixed because of high market competition. Instant noodles are a low-profit-margin product, but they can be distributed to consumers all over the country. In addition to its low price[Food and Nutrition Bulletin,1998]. While The attitude distribution survey found that the target customers of instant rice noodle product had attitude types mainly belongs to Reformer and Mainstreamer class. These types of attitude classes had a significant correlation to the product characteristics of sensory quality, added nutrition, convenience and price. Such information could be used for product communication[Jacinto F. Fabiosa,2006]. In addition although protein-energy malnutrition in Thailand has lessened in severity over the past 10 years, deficiencies of certain micronutrients, such as iodine, irons, and vitamin A, are still significant. Among the many control and prevention strat egies that have been implemented, fortification of industrially processed foods is now emerging as potentially important, since a growing reliance on such foods by the Thai people has arisen due to the countrys rapidly expanding industrialized and cash-based market economy. One such food is the instant noodle, which is acceptable, available, and affordable in Thailand[Becker, Jasper. Evasive Citizens Throw Wrench in Census Results [South China Morning Post, March29, 2001]. Moreover in Thailand The cost of a 55-g package is about 5 baht, whereas one serving of Thai fast food costs at least 10 15 baht. Instant noodles are therefore an affordable dish for people of all socioeconomic levels[Kasetsart J.,2006]. And In the United States, the cost of a volumetric feeder varies widely between US$ 5,000 and 7,000, while that of a ribbon or paddle Blender/mixer varies between US$ 9,000 and 15,000. This equipment, however, may be available locally at lower prices[Naohito Abe and Akiyuki Tonog i,2008]. Next to Instant food become more and more necessity in fast pace ages. Instant noodle and rice etc. are featured as the merits of low price and convenience but the demerits of high-calorie and nutrition shortage. In China, the major consumers of instant noodle can be divided into two categories: one is travelers and the other is single youths, such as university students and so on. In China, the price of instant noodle packed with bag is below two Yuan (0.29 USD) and the price of instant noodle packed with bowl is less than four Yuan (0.58 USD). However, the average price of a buffet is more than eight Yuan (1.14 USD) in the big cities in China. In 2008, the sales volumes of Chinese instant noodle, rice and vermicelli were over 5.5 million tons valued at least 6 billion USD,in which instant noodle accounted for about 95% market share of sales volumes and 90% market share of sales revenues[Chiu Shi-fang,2007]. However The prices of instant noodles have scale up with the incr ease in the prices of basic material including the main basic material wheat flour. Now the prices of instant noodle have risen to more than Rp1, 000 per 60-68 gram pack[Akkermans, H. ,1995]. As The latent demand for instant noodles in India is not actual or historic sales. Nor is latent demand future sales. In fact, latent demand can be either lower or higher than actual sales if a market is inefficient (i.e., not representative of relatively competitive levels). Inefficiencies arise from a number of factors, including the lack of international openness, cultural barriers to consumption, regulations, and cartel-like behavior on the part of firms. In general, however, latent demand is typically larger than actual sales in a market[James Buchanan, Rent-seeking and profit-seeking, in James M. Buchanan, Robert D. Tollison, and Gordon Tullock ,1980] . Finally, the domestic players hold the advantages of lower cost of production and distribution, competitive retail prices, local knowled ge and network, but they are relatively weak in taste, variety, advertising and packaging[Terrence H. Witkowski, 2007] The nutritional value is not enough The first improvement of instant fried noodles with oat bran. Oat bran is rich in Æ’Â ¢-glucan, a soluble fiber in oat by dry milling and cooking extrusion to improve the nutritional quality of wheat noodle and to evaluate the noodle quality. OBC native were used to replace wheat flour in noodle production[Reungmaneepaitoon, S., Sikkhamondhol, C. and Tiangpook, C.,2006]. Next instant noodles are becoming popular in North America due to some recognized factors such as ready-to-eat convenience, acceptable taste and preferred texture. These factors are created by the interactions of certain ingredients including water, starch, gum and others [LI JUAN YU,2003]. And Korean traditional foods have not been given enough attention for a long time, but recent domestic consumption has gradually increased in view of peoples recognition and consciousness of such products as health foods. The food culture of Korea has also caught the interest of other countries through the export of traditiona l food. Traditional food has been developed on the basis of unique techniques from each country, and efforts to export them are now expanding. Hence, it is now considered a competitive product, what with its unique materials and production techniques. In order for traditional foods to meet the international standard, it is necessary to develop new policies and strategies, such as the development of traditional foods for foreign consumption, fusion foods, adaptation and brand marketing, and scientific and safety guarantees. The need for international standardization of traditional food and improvement of packaging and design must also be addressed[Jeanette Hunter,1996] Also MSG has been used as a food additive ever since it was first isolated early in the 20th century in Japan. It enhances food flavor. Many claim harmful effects due to it [David Tin Win,2008]. Moreover Flours processed from eight cassava roots were selected from recently developed Cassava Mosaic Disease resistant var ieties. They were processed into noodles[Nwabueze, U. Titus* and Anoruoh, A. Glory,2009]. And the instant noodle market is growing fast in Asian countries, and is gaining popularity in the Western market. Wheat flour which is usually used to make instant noodles is not only low in fibre and protein contents but also poor in essential amino acid lysine[Vijay Jayasena, Peggy Leung and Syed M. Nasar-Abbas,2008]. After the changes in noodle texture occurring after changes in amylases and protein composition. This combined approach may prove to be useful in resolving differences and similarities in noodle texture wrought by changes in the constituent polymers of wheat flourHWANG,E-Nam,2007]. Then the healthy lifestyle and appropriate nutrition are stressed nowadays. New foodstuffs are still investigated with the aim to improve the diet and conduce to a better health state of the population. Their high nutritious and dietary quality meets the demands of the food industry and consumers. Ou r collective dealt with quinoa, a commodity of Andean, because quinoa is a good source of essential amino acids such as lysine and methodize. Quinoa contains relatively high quantities of vitamins (thiamin, vitamin C) and minerals[Gary Vocke,1998]. As well the remarkable economic changes occurring within the Peoples Republic of China since 1978 have resulted in striking alteration in food consumption patterns for urban Chinese residents. Higher incomes, busier life styles, greater choices in food retailers, the increasing availability of refrigeration, and the greater variety in food choice have all resulted in shifts of household consumption[Dong-Hwa Shin,2003]. Finally large-scale supermarkets have rapidly expanded in Japan over the past two decades, partly because of zoning deregulations for large-scale merchants. The analysis reveals that stores in the treatment group lowered their prices of curry paste, bottled tea, instant noodles, and toothpaste by 0.5 to 4.7 percent more tha n stores in a control group in response to a large-scale supermarket opening. The price response is larger in stores with similar floor size as new entrants[Cho, J.S. Kimchi.,1998] 2.5 Relationship of the independent variable to the Dependent variable. Research indicate that consumers will step behavior of instant noodles are consumed. When student demand to eat instant noodles Student will demand to buy noodles semi Finished form and the purchasing behavior Student to compare the suitability of the price And some student will consider the nutritional value And these factors will result in Instant noodle consumption Behavior of RMUTT Students 2.6 Previous Studies Nano Search company, study about the behavior of instant noodles were consumed. The sample is 48.0 percent male and 52.0 percent female, age range can be classified into 3 age range is 18-25 years old accounted for 63.0 percent age 26-35 years accounted for 34.5 percent and over 35. in percentage 2.5 respectively of the sample income not exceeding 10,000 baht per cent 36.0 Income 10,001 15,000 baht per cent 28.5 and more than 15,000 percent 35.5 for education degree Most degree 93.0 percent respectively, followed. Education Secondary School. / Secondary and Vocational / associate professionals, respectively, private companies and 64.0 per cent to group students accounted for 17.5 percent. The study of the behavior of consumers of instant noodles that In the reasons for eating instant noodles found a reason to eat it. I think eating 22.8 percent respectively, followed by hungry and 16.3 percent, to save money and 15.6 percent from the behavior of buying instant noodles with various size That the inquiry found. Consumers have to buy popular instant noodle. Pack a small 46.0 percent and buy a big bag. 24.0 percent and buy a pack (envelope) of 24.0 per cent share at the same place to buy instant noodles at a regular place to buy it. Revealed that location was purchased by the majority. Convenience Stores (convenience store), such as 7-11 as 54.0 percent respectively, followed. Department store retail / wholesale (District Councils Department Store) as Lotus, Big C, , etc. representing 14.5 percent of the retail and online stores. Percentage 13.5, respectively, for the cost of buying instant noodles per month, it was found that the cost to purchase per month, approximately up to 50 per month, per cent 46.0 and more than 100 Baht percent per month. And from 31.0 to inquire about purchasing behavior of consumers of instant noodles that With the behavior. Buy the original brand new taste, but each time a purchase. Percent. 53.0 respectively, followed. The behavior of purchasing brand new But taste is taste the same. Percent. 20.0 and for the nee d to have instant noodles at home always on them. Consumers see that Necessary to have instant noodles on the house always 68.0 percent and 32.0 percent, only to see that not only have to have instant noodles in the house on the important factors in decisions to buy instant noodles, it was found that the main factor. The good taste / smell / taste 24.9 percent respectively, followed. The advertising media. 10.3 per cent and can be purchased easily Available online.6.9 percent and the appropriate subject of inquiry in terms of quality and price to buy instant noodle. Found that most consumers agree on the appropriate price and quality of the noodle-half years at Sam Century Direct sales in general and the reason for that. Affordable quality that consumers price was good / not expensive and 58.1 percent full power good 12.9 percent. Chapter 3 Research Frameworks Conceptual Framework Student concerned in their health. Instant noodle consumption Behavior of RMUTT Students Purchasing behavior of consumers. Appropriate price of Instant noodles. The nutritional value is not enough. Research Hypothesis Ho1- There is no relationship between Instant noodle consumption behaviors of RMUTT Students toward health care. Ha1- There is relationship between Instant noodle consumption behaviors of RMUTT Students toward health care. Ho2- There is no relationship between Instant noodle consumption behaviors of RMUTT Students toward the purchasing behavior of consumers. Ha2- There is relationship between Instant noodle consumption behaviors of RMUTT Students toward the purchasing behavior of consumers. Ho3- There is no relationship between Instant noodle consumption behaviors of RMUTT Students toward the appropriate price and quality of Instant noodles.. Ha3- There is relationship between Instant noodle consumption behaviors of RMUTT Students toward the appropriate price and quality of Instant noodles. Ho4- There is no relationship between Instant noodle

Constructive Discharge Memo

Memorandum To:Mike Bigg, CEO From:HR Manager Date:10/14/2012 Re:EEO CONSTRUCTIVE DISCHARGE CLAIM Constructive Discharge Constructive discharge occurs when an employee is forced to quit because the working conditions have become unbearable. According to Black’s Law Dictionary a constructive discharge is â€Å"a termination of employment brought about by making the employee's working conditions so intolerable that the employee feels compelled to leave. â€Å"These conditions would include harassment or discrimination or receiving a negative change in working conditions or his pay for reasons that are not work related.A litmus test for this is to determine what a reasonable person would do in this scenario. If a reasonable person would have resigned due to the unbearable conditions, and if the employer had actual knowledge of the intolerable actions or conditions and could have remedied them but did not, then the employee would be considered constructively discharged. In a case where an employee feels the employer made the job so unbearable that he cannot remain there, a wrongful termination suit can be filed.In legal terms, being compelled to quit is legally similar to being unfairly discharged. In the case we are facing now, the complainant feels that our schedule change would not allow him to continue his employment with us due to the fact the rotating schedule would force him to occasionally work on his religious holy day. In our situation, this law could have some merit if it can be proven that we changed the schedule in an attempt to target any specific individuals. In that case, we could be deemed at fault.However, due to company growth, the work schedule was modified to reflect a new production requirement. Since the changes were due directly to the need to change the entire production schedule and not aimed specifically at a single employee, this situation should not apply. Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 Title VII of the Civil Rights A ct of 1964 is an act that was passed by congress to provide citizens protection against discrimination by employers based on race, religion, color, sex and national origin.In Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the law stipulates that it shall be an unlawful practice for an employer to discharge any employee, or otherwise to discriminate against any individual with respect to his compensation, terms, conditions or privileges of his employment because of such individual’s race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. This is the primary federal law that prohibits discrimination in the workplace. In basic terms, this act prohibits employers from making employment decisions based on race, color, religion, sex and national origin.Age discrimination and disability discrimination are not included in this act and are now covered by subsequent laws enacted by congress. Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 relates directly to our case as the employee in question has char ged that we violated his rights under this act based on religion discrimination. His claim that we are making him work on his religious holy day brings Title VII into focus and it needs to be reviewed to see if his claim can be substantiated.Upon review of the entire operation and in light of the growth the company is experiencing, it does not appear that we have violated his civil rights as claimed under this act. With all personnel being affected by the schedule change and each employee treated equally in the scheduling, it would not seem likely that one individual has been singled out for his religious beliefs. Recommendation In reviewing the facts surrounding this case, it is apparent that we are not guilty of the charges levied against us and I suggest that we proceed forward and litigate this case.Since the decision was made to change shifts due to company growth and the need for a revised production schedule, I do not feel that we handled the situation incorrectly and recomme nd that we continue on the same course. Making strategic operational decisions and mitigating supply chain process risks is an important part of the business model. Our decision was based solely on the need of the business to remain competitive in the marketplace, and not focused on changing our schedule to impede the religious freedoms any single employee.The only schedule that remained unchanged was for the office employees. Since the employee in question was not an office employee, and as we did not have any openings in that area, a move to the office would not be prudent or equitable for any other employees. Finally, at no point before the employee contacted the EEOC were we made aware of his religious beliefs and needs. Because of that lack of knowledge, we could not have made any accommodations for this employee to assist with his situation. We should feel comfortable informing the EEOC that we are not guilty of the charges that were alleged.Legal Support The most defining leg al support that is available is the Civil Rights Act of 1964 itself. In Title VII of this Act, clear guidelines are given as to what protection employees are given against unlawful employment practices. In SEC. 2000e-2 of Title VII of The Civil Rights Act of 1964, it indicate that it shall be illegal for an employer to†¦discriminate against any individual with respect to his compensation, terms, conditions or privileges of employment, because of such individuals race, color, religion, sex or national origin.This employee has alleged that he was forced to follow the new policy on shift work that he was discriminated against as he would now be required to work on his religious holy day. Courts stipulate that a reasonable person test should be utilized to help determine this. By using the reasonable person test – would a reasonable person quit due to conditions that were intolerable at the workplace – I would suggest that would not occur. Many people’s religio us holy days were affected by the new schedule as the schedule demanded a rotating four day on, four day off schedule.While it may be inconvenient to some, it would not necessarily require an individual to resign his position. This employee at no time informed the employer of any conflicts based on his religion prior to his resignation. There could even be the possibility of utilizing vacation or personal days when the religious holy days fell on specific work required days. In Lawson V. Washington, 2001, a state trooper cadet resigned after realizing he would have to salute the flag and swear an oath to the state – both of which are against his religion. He felt he would be terminated if he failed to comply with the academy’s manual.At no point did anyone in command at the academy indicate that he would be terminated, although they also never indicated they would make any accommodations for him in regards to this issue. In this case, Lawson was able to make a prima fa cie case on 2 of 3 points. He was able to prove his religion was legitimate and the demands were based on that religion. Secondly, he did inform his employer of his religious beliefs and the onus was then on the employer to make reasonable accommodations for him. He could not prove the third point where the academy would have terminated his employment if he did not comply.In our case, the employee never made it known that his religion would not allow him to work on specific days. Because the condition was not known, accommodations would have never been made available to him. This point alone eliminates our responsibilities in this case. In Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, Plaintiff-appellant, v. University of Chicago Hospitals, Defendant-appellee, (2001) a case where an employee believed she was targeted specifically for her religious beliefs, eventually resigned due to the pressure and hostile environment she felt at work.Her employer made specific comments to her regarding her recruiting persons for employment from her church. The employer even told her superior to fire her if she did not end the practice of recruiting from her church. The EEOC was able to prove constructive discharge, where the employee felt as she must quit to avoid being fired. However, the courts stipulate it must be proven that the constructive discharge was motivated by discriminatory intent. Basically, it must be proved that not only was she forced out, but the reason behind the action was religious discrimination.The courts disagreed with this point and believed that the hospital’s actions were not motivated by religious discrimination. The relationship of this case to ours is significant. While the complainant may believe he was forced to quit due to our perceived infringement of his religious beliefs, there was no premeditation in regards to forcing any employee to leave because of their religious beliefs. In addition, since the employee never made it known his need for special accommodations, we would never have been able to foresee this issue with him.Steps for the future We can take a number of steps to strengthen our defenses against violations of Title VII of The Civil Rights Act of 1964 in the future. A primary strategy is to do an internal review of all company policies and procedures to see if any potential risks can be identified (Jenkins, 2004). If they are, steps can be taken to decrease the potential for exposure to lawsuits by eliminating practices that are deemed wrong. Another tactic is to implement a formal complaint system and encourage employees to make use of it.These systems could help us reveal and rectify any problems, real or perceived, before they lead to lawsuits. Training all members of the management team in all aspects of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 is an imperative step in a proactive stance against potential wrongdoing. Developing diversity committees could help the entire organization gain a better u nderstanding of the needs of employees. Effective communication is the final step to help avoid issues in the future and is tantamount to successful and happy employees.Open communication from employee to employer cannot be stressed enough. If we listen to our employees and treat them all fairly, avoiding harassment and discrimination charges in the future will be much easier and possibly eliminated at all. A regular review by the Human Resources department will be necessary to insure continued compliance with appropriate policies and procedures that will keep us from committing violations of Title VII.Annual harassment and discrimination retraining for all personnel will help everyone gain a better understanding on what is and is not acceptable and problems may be avoided. Finally, regular communication with the EEOC can help by answering any questions we might have regarding the fair and equal treatment of all employees. Black’s Law Dictionary (N. D. ). Retrieved from http: //thelawdictionary. org/search/? cx=partner-pub-4620319056007131%3A7293005414&cof=FORID%3A10&ie=UTF-8&q=discharge&x=0&y=0 Constructive Discharge (N.D. ), Retrieved from http://jobsearch. about. com/od/jobloss/g/constructivedischarge. htm EEOC V. University of Chicago Hospitals 276 F. 3d 326 Lawson v. State of Washington, 319 F. 3d 498 – Court of Appeals, 9th Circuit 2003 Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, SEC. 2000e-2. [Section 703] Jenkins, Lin (2004), Avoiding title VII violations – employment policies and procedures. Retreived from http://goarticles. com/article/Avoiding-Title-VII-Violations-Employment-Policies-and-Procedures/2759944/

Motivation and Organisational Behavior

What is motivation? Motivation is define as the stimulus that drives, direct and maintaining the human behavior to reach goals (Wood et al. , 2006). In the context of workplace, motivation will be the one that drive the employee to perform and give more effort to contribute in the company or organization growth. Hence, it is crucial that manager keeps their employee or workers motivated. In this essay, one out of four content theories and one out of two process theory will be defined out and compared out. There are 2 types of motivation theory: Content and process theory. While content theory looks to factors within the individual and attempt to answer most of the â€Å"what† question in the context of motivation, process theory emphasize more on â€Å"how† does someone gets motivated. (Vincent Gabriel, 2003). A few theorists that have contributed to the few famous theories are Maslow, Herzberg, Atkinson, and McClelland (Vincent Gabriel, 2003). In theory, there is a continuous relationship between need (drive), tension, action and satisfaction (Reduction of drive). But in reality, it might be more complex than just those 4 actions. These are because: People’s needs are changing over time, and how people react to failure plays a part too. For example a failure to someone will demoralize him, and yet it might push another person to strive for to be better. Hence, their varying needs translated into varying actions of each individual. (Vincent Gabriel, 2003). One of the famous theories in terms of motivation is Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs theory. In this theory, Abraham Maslow defined out human needs in 5 steps, with each lower step must be satisfied or fulfilled before advancing to the further steps. He identify higher order needs, such as self esteem and self actualization and lower order needs such as social, safety and physiological needs (wood et al, 2006). Maslow rank these needs up by assuming which needs are more important, hence the need to satisfy it before other needs can serve as motivators. (Wood et all, 2006). According to Maslow himself, once the lower needs have been satisfied, it will not serve as the motivator anymore (Udechukwu, 2009). For example, for a normal human, the most basic needs include food, water and a place to live. Once this eeds have been fulfilled, he will then move on to the next hierarchy: safety. To put it in rough term, he will then want to be able to continue to eat and drink, hence he will find a job and a source of income to do so. Once that is satisfied too, and then he will be able to move on to the next level, so on and so forth. Hence, as you can see, a person will continue to climb the â€Å"pyramid† until he reaches the top of the scale: self actualization. From here onward, he then will think on how to expand himself further, and start fulfilling other aspect of needs. As what have written previously, while content theory like Maslow’s hierarchy of needs explains out on what are the factors that motivate people, there’s process theory that explain on how does the motivator motivate people, or even, whether is the motivator effective or rather counter-productive instead? In this essay, for the process theory, we are going to look at Adam’s equity theory. Equity theory suggests that employee must develop a sense of fairness after comparing themselves against their peer or others. Huseman et al suggest that there are three types of individuals (Shore, 2004). They are: ‘Benevolents’, who are described as â€Å"giver†, who prefer to have given more input than output. There’s also ‘Entitleds’, who are the â€Å"getter†, who on the contrary to the â€Å"giver†, will feel discontent and unfair when their input is larger than their output, and finally, the third type of individual is the one that what Huseman called Equity Sensitives, who will adhere to the old equity theory and will just stick with the balance of input and output (Shore, 2004). With all the individuals defined, Equity theorist starts to predict that benevolent, entitled, and equity sensitives will respond differently to fairness in workplace. For example, benevolent (giver) will feel more satisfied when they feel that they are under-rewarded than when they were over-rewarded. On the contrary, Entitleds (taker), will feel unsatisfied when they were under-rewarded. On a field study done by Huseman, what have been found out about these 3 individuals is that, indeed that both entitleds and equity sensitives are behaving like what was predicted, but on the contrary of the expectation, enevolents do get more satisfied when they were over-reward (Shore, 2004). This strange phenomenon happened too on other studies by King et al (1993), Alien and White(2002), and also Sauley and Bedeian(2000). Even though all those studies have their own limitation, we can safely conclude that the benevolents are the most tolerant to the under-reward and also more satisfied than the other 2 types of individuals (Shore, 2004). To compare and contrast both the content and process theory mentioned above, we can rather say that they both must be practiced in the workplace instead of only choosing either one. As what have been mentioned earlier on, the content theory is only explain out the â€Å"what† factor of a human motivator. For this, Maslow basically theorized based on what does one needs that haven’t been fulfilled and arranging them up in a hierarchy order (Harris et al, 1993). Whereas process theory will be dwelling on the nature on how or what problem does human see and perceived and whether it will motivate them. To put it simply, what have been explained above about equity theory is that even with a reward, it may affect different individuals differently. Before we look into how a job design actually helps in motivating an employee in a company, let’s take a look on what actually is a job design and what are some of the characteristic first. A job design is basically a planning and specification of a job task so that the job are done like how we want it to be (Wood et al, 2006). Under the job design itself, there are four major areas that we will want to cover later on. Those four are: job simplification, job enlargement, job rotation, and job enrichment. To explain these four aspects better, let us examine a short and simple case of a pirate ship (Rao, 2010). In a pirate ship, there are a lot of jobs involved. It can be as small as normal pirate crew, to the extent until the captain of the ships. Different job have different scopes that need to be fulfilled. Now if we were to design a job in this ship, how will we be able to design it up then? A group of people in MBA have actually grouped them up into two categories: the star tasks and the guardian tasks. The star tasks job scope include target identification, command in the battle until the negotiation for alliance between fleet. Whereas, the guardian task job is rather more operational, such as allocating crews, solving conflicts, executing punishment, distributing loot evenly until the role of medic (Rao, 2010). The question is, is it really efficient then, to lump all those tasks into two groups only? Well, the answer is most probably quite obvious: No. In such setting of the pirate ship, it will be rather hard for one individuals to be able to have the skills to be the Great Star or Great guardian, since both of them require a totally different set of skills. What will happen is that with this kind of job design, it will discourage a crew member to apply for the position of the star or guardian position. In this case, we will want to use job simplification to analyze and solve this issue. Job simplification is meant to make someone excel in a job(wood et al, 2006), for example, a crew member of the ship will be task to do a specific job only (eg. Negotiating with other fleet). In the long term, the crew member will get better and better in that area of job. The strength of this job design approach, however, is its biggest weakness also. This is because, since that the job have been simplified, the crew member will get bored doing it again and again for so many years already. This is when we will want to other approach such as job enlargement, job enrichment and job rotation. Job enlargement involves combining two or more skills that were assigned to separate workers previously (Wood et al, 2006). The only difference between this and the job simplification is that now the worker are responsible over different areas and also have more jobs to do (eg. Negotiator can also be tasked to manage the navigation). The other approach that involves equipping the crew or worker with more skills is job rotation. This approach can be defined as working different tasks or in different position for a set of time (Kaymaz, 2010). This approach focus more on the flexibility of the worker, decreasing the monotony, supporting career development, enabling high level of adaptation, and also to decrease stress (Kaymaz, 2010). With all those advantage, the most obvious disadvantage will most probably that the crew or worker will spend too much time to adapt and learn different sets of skills. Last but not least is the job enrichment approach. This involves in adding responsibility to the worker, making their job is more in depth. (wood et al, 2006). With all those job design approach been defined out, it will then enable us to combine and come up with a set of approach that we can use so that our employee are motivated. An appropriate job design can always motivate the employee up if we identify out, each and every single needs of an employee. A new employee that recently joined the company will most probably want to fulfill his physiological needs; hence he will want to have the appropriate salary. If his performance is good most of the time, and the company wants to retain him, the company must takes in the account on whether he is â€Å"benevolents† type or the â€Å"entitleds† type to measure the tolerance level on deciding his pay. Once all of those approach has been made, company must also keep close look on the employee, so that they can react fast to apply other approach such as job enlargement or even to the extent of job enrichment and empowerment if the employees begun to show signals that they are not motivated anymore. And now, we have covered the content theory of Maslow, the Adam’s Equity theory for the process theory in the context of motivation theory, and we also have covered job design approach and how to apply it in the company and organization. Hence it will be pretty obvious, that to motivate people, we will want to know what’s the key motivator is the person, whether he will be motivated with the changes that have been made and also how can the company change to motivate him better.

Essay on Imperialism- Conrads Heart of Darkness - 1162 Words

Imperialism and its oppressive processes have affected societies as well as individual lives for centuries. In Joseph Conrad’s Heart of Darkness, oppression through imperialism demonstrates how a certain civilization, the Congolese, is affected negatively by imperialism. By focusing on Africa, it allows for a graphic recount of the many years spent reigned by foreign oppressors and tyrannies. In Heart of Darkness, the Congo is oppressed by the imperialists economically and geographically. As well, the oppressed people are taken advantage of spiritually. Conrad describes how the ruling tyrant is affected by the process of conquering a local people and this draws a parallel to the ruling empire. Conrad, through his novel, attempts to†¦show more content†¦The economic and geographic domination of an area for the benefit of another people directly affects those already inhabiting the region. The conquering of a place and its people does not just affect the land and its r esources; it also affects those inhabiting it. Marlow describes the Congolese’s spirituality being oppressed, â€Å"The conquest of the earth, which mostly means the taking is away from those who have a different complexion of slightly flatter noses than ourselves, is not a pretty thing when you look into it too much.† (Conrad, 69). Marlow discusses his aunt’s thoughts on the process, â€Å"She talked about weaning those ignorant millions from their horrid ways.† He watches the Europeans using their own laws to control and oppress the people of the Congo, for example, he sees an ugly chain-gang at the first station, which does not seem as though they are criminals. Nevertheless, the European law had decided for the natives, Marlow describes, â€Å"like shells from the man-of-war, like an insoluble mystery from the sea. (Conrad, 12). The Congolese appointed to work on his ship, he describes as, still belonging, â€Å"to the beginnings of time,† bu t â€Å"as long as there was a piece of paper written over in accordance with some farcical law or other made down the river, it didn’t enter anybody’s head to trouble how they would live. (Conrad, 33-34). Skulls of then men judged by the European law were set on stakes around Kurtz’sShow MoreRelated Theme of Colonialism and Imperialism in Conrads Heart of Darkness1008 Words   |  5 PagesThe Theme of Imperialism in Heart of Darkness       Of the themes in Conrads Heart of Darkness, imperialism and colonialism are probably the most important. While Heart of Darkness is actually set on the Thames River, the events Marlow describes are set on the Congo River. The Congo is the river that brought about the partition of Africa that occurred from 1880 to 1890 (McLynn 13). This event marked the beginning of the colonization of Africa. In 1884, European nations held a conference andRead MoreThoughts Of Imperialism In Joseph Conrads Heart Of Darkness911 Words   |  4 PagesHeart of Darkness, what does it really mean, what can it signify? For all it matters, it has no meaning, but is just a phrase. By applying the following schools of theory, psychoanalysis, over analyzing texts, cultural studies which portray how readers consume the text and postcolonial which analyzes the â€Å"losers† perspective it helps to depict the novella of Heart Darkness. By using the schools of theory, it will analyze a multitude of pers pective relating to the novella’s theme of imperialism disastrousRead MoreCorruption Of Imperialism In Joseph Conrads Heart Of Darkness1473 Words   |  6 Pagesbecome corrupt themselves. Heart of Darkness by Joseph Conrad relates to both the idea that an individual can become corrupt in a corrupt environment, and that some individuals can uphold their integrity in a corrupt situation. Both of these reactions can be seen in the main characters of Heart of Darkness, Kurtz and Marlow, in Kurtz’ becoming corrupt due to imperialism in the Congo, while still upholding some integrity, and in Marlow’s continuing integrity in spite of imperialism, while still losing someRead More Colonialism and Imperialism in Conrads Heart of Darkness Essay1016 Words   |  5 PagesImperialism Exposed in Conrads Heart of Darkness      Ã‚   Joseph Conrads Heart of Darkness is a novel about European imperialism and its far-reaching effects. Conrad relates his personal opinions through the protagonist, Marlow, who learns a great deal about imperialism while on a journey to the African Congo. Although Heart of Darkness seems to be an anti-imperialistic work, this is not entirely true. Conrad condemns the overly idealistic nature of imperialism, but does not attack BritainsRead MoreImperialism And Colonialism In Joseph Conrads Heart Of Darkness1302 Words   |  6 Pagesstructures such as imperialism and colonialism can affect the way in which an individual experiences the world. Those born into the so-called â€Å"First World† countries have been privileged in that they have not felt the burden of such societal structure, as compared to those born into those â€Å"Second World† countries. These individuals have dealt with the pressures of Westernized society in such a way that their entire way of lif e has been transformed. Those whose countries hold values of imperialism and colonialismRead MoreThe Importance Of Imperialism In Joseph Conrads Heart Of Darkness1174 Words   |  5 PagesOn the surface, Conrad’s work seems to simply stress, â€Å"Humanity is important; fidelity is the highest virtue† (Moser, 1966, pg 11) but is both more subtle and complex. Even in the title of the book, Heart of Darkness, has significance. Africa’s Victorian era nickname was the ‘dark continent’, which â€Å"referred to the fact that little was known in the West about the interior of the continent† (yourdictionary.com, 2017). Therefore, Congo is the interior or ‘heart’ of Africa. This title also alludes toRead MoreImperialism And Racism In Joseph Conrads Heart Of Darkness1405 Words   |  6 PagesThe Negative Impact of Imperialism and Racism In the novella ‘Heart Of Darkness’ Marlow is a sailor who is telling the story to four other sailors about his expedition to The Congo and everything that ensued after he went on the expedition. Imperialism and racism has a negative impact on Marlow and Kurtz in Joseph Conrad’s novella â€Å"Heart Of Darkness† which reveals the savagery of the practice of imperialism. One of the impacts that is shown is near the end when Kurtz comes down with jungle feverRead More Colonialism and Imperialism in Joseph Conrads Heart of Darkness2027 Words   |  9 Pages   Joseph Conrads novella, Heart of Darkness, describes a life-altering journey that the protagonist, Marlow, experiences in the African Congo.   The story explores the historical period of colonialism in Africa to exemplify Marlows struggles.   Marlow, like other Europeans of his time, is brought up to believe certain things about colonialism, but his views change as he experiences colonialism first hand. This essay will explore Marlows view of colonialism, which is shaped through his experiencesRead More The Horrors of Colonialism and Imperialism in Conrads Heart of Darkness1840 Words   |  8 Pages     Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   From the onset of the novella Heart of Darkness, the narrator Marlow compares his subsequent tale of colonialism with that of the Roman colonization of Northern Europe and the fascination associated with such an endeavor. However, throughout his narration, Marlow challenges this viewpoint by painting a heinous picture of the horrors of colonialist ventures. In the opening of his tale, Conrad, through Marlow, establishes his thoughts on colonialism. He says that conquerors only useRead MoreExposing Colonialism and Imperialism in Joseph Conrad’s Heart of Darkness1940 Words   |  8 PagesThe Evil of Colonialism Exposed in Heart of Darkness       Marlow was an average European man with average European beliefs. Like most Europeans of his time, Marlow believed in colonialism; that is, until he met Kurtz. Kurtz forces Marlow to rethink his current beliefs after Marlow learns the effects of colonialism deep in the African Congo. In Joseph Conrad’s Heart of Darkness, Marlow learns that he has lived his entire life believing in a sugar-coated evil.   Marlows understanding of Kurtzs