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Diese Arbeit erläutert anhand einer vergleichenden Analyse zweier Streikfälle, welche Nachteile sich aus dem System der industriellen Beziehungen in Großbritannien ergeben und welche Vorteile die gesetzliche Mitbestimmung in der Bundesrepublik bietet. Es soll damit die übergeordnete Frage untersucht werden, ob eine Einführung des deutschen Systems in Großbritannien von Nutzen ist. Grund dafür ist der unverhältnismäßig große Unterschied der Haltung zur Mitbestimmung dieser beiden europäischen Staaten. Zunächst wird dazu der Mitbestimmungsbegriff definiert. Es folgen Definitionen von Gewerkschaft und Betriebsrat sowie den Repräsentationsorganen der Mitbestimmung. Des Weiteren werden zum einen der Begriff des Streiks erklärt und zum anderen die verschiedenen Betrachtungsweisen der industriellen Beziehungen von Arbeitgeber und Arbeitnehmer nach Alan Fox (1966). Es werden außerdem die Beziehungen zwischen Arbeitgeber und Arbeitnehmer in beiden Ländern ausführlich behandelt. Betrachtet werden dabei die politischen und historischen Hintergründe sowie die heutigen Mitbestimmungsmöglichkeiten der Arbeitnehmerschaft. Besonderes Augenmerk liegt dabei auf der Entwicklung der Repräsentativorgane der Arbeitnehmer beider Länder. Im Anschluss werden zwei Streikfälle aus dem Jahr 2015 miteinander verglichen. Die Resultate zeigen wirtschaftliche und soziale Nachteile bei einer Streiksituation zwischen Arbeitgeber und Arbeitnehmer im Vereinigten Königreich ohne eine gesetzliche Mitbestimmung. In der Bundesrepublik zeigen die Ergebnisse auf Grund der gesetzlichen Mitbestimmung in einer komplizierten Streiksituation einen wirtschaftlich und sozial nachhaltigeren Lösungsweg auf. Die gesetzliche Mitbestimmung schafft Gerechtigkeit zwischen Arbeitgeber und Arbeitnehmer in einem Wirtschaftssystem das sonst weitestgehend von der unsichtbaren Hand der Marktregulierung beherrscht wird. Darüber hinaus bringt sie wirtschaftliche Vorteile mit sich, da sie das Konfliktpotential innerhalb der Belegschaft auf ein erträgliches Maß senkt. Beides sind Gründe, die Großbritannien durchaus zum Nachdenken über ein gesetzliches Mitbestimmungssystem anhalten können.
Quality Management has attained top priority in many sectors, notably in the airspace industry. A thereby integrated mechanism to ensure the containment and correction of production errors should include a consistent and effective tracking system to maximise business process efficiency on the internal as well as overall company level.
The A350 Doors Program of Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH has identified the need for an improvement project to augment the quality of the associated summary report in terms of time, money and scope. This research aims to document as well as evaluate the effectiveness of this optimisation through the measurement of key indicators.
Through the application of various project and business process management tools this research measures the consumption of financial and time resources as well as the change in the quality of the reported outcome. Thereby it found that the optimisation achieved a radical reduction in scope of the document, thus limiting the amount of time and financial resources consumed. Similarly, previous tracking errors were corrected and the procedure altered, increasing the decision-making quality of the content. These results and their attainment process are to be considered for future company internal optimisation projects.
A shortage of skilled workers is a problem which many organizations face when expanding their plants abroad. In Germany, for many organizations it is comparatively easy to prevent this problem by constantly training their own employees in the apprenticeship system but in their plants abroad this option is commonly not available. The only way to achieve the same option abroad is to implement the apprenticeship program in the plants independently. That bears many challenges but also many opportunities. This thesis focuses on the implementation of the apprenticeship in Mexico and seeks to examine the main challenges which arise before, during and after the implementation. After the examination of these and explaining their root cause, various solution approaches are analyzed and recommended based on the case of IMS Gear SE & Co. KGaA.
Stakeholder analysis as an instrument for a successful development for a departmental strategy
(2016)
Functional strategy development is a vital key lever for any manager to provide direction, and to define the purpose and the value contribution of his organization. In this context, the increasing usage of stakeholder analysis in today's business world confirms the realization that stakeholders' input is an essential tool to shape and influence the decision making process. To that effect, obtaining input on their perceptions, beliefs, intentions and interests represents a valuable instrument for managers to furthermore facilitate the implementation of organizational objectives and the development of a functional strategy.
This paper reviews the fundamental aspects of functional strategies and stakeholder analysis, followed by theoretical approaches of research design and data collection methods, as well as organizational change. In relation to these concepts, it introduces a business area of concern and explains the research framework. A thorough investigation of the research outcomes, their potential origins and boundary conditions will lead to recommendations of corrective measures.
The paper proposes the business area concerned to face a major root problem, which suggests being the main cause for multiple related problems that were all detected in the course of the research.
The e-Commerce market is continuously gaining importance, leading to a fast market development and to equally rapid transition in business models. This thesis analyses the impact of the e-Commerce sector on stationary trade, based on a case study of an internationally established retailer with focus on the Swiss market. The paper builds up on the explanation of the term e-Commerce and the e-Commerce sector, then evaluates the effects of e-Commerce on stationary trade. Based on this information, a case study will be analysed using specific key performance indicators. The aim is to clarify whether the e-Commerce sector is a threat for stationary trade and to elaborate recommendations for retailers. Therefore, innovative concepts of retail stores are mentioned and applied to the case study, in order to give concrete recommendations for further development of multi channel strategies. It can be concluded that although e-Commerce is a growing business model, stationary trade is indispensable. Both sectors should be understood as complementary concepts. Consequently, strategies for implementing multi-channel schemes should be implemented in order to stay competitive and satisfy customer needs.
Cost accounting is one of the main sources of information for the management in the company. A correctly designed cost accounting system may address the most important issues in order to support effective and successful decision-making, which among others include price building, efficiency measurement and profit evaluation. In order to enable the full functioning of the system the company should ensure that the system is designed according to the company’s size, operations and processes, as well as information needs. For Testo Sensor GmbH the optimization of cost accounting system became essential, as the information it provides at the moment is not sufficient and reliable for decision-making. Obviously, the reason for this is that the system was not correctly and thoroughly designed at the times of the company foundation. Therefore, the goal of current paper is to develop and adjust the cost accounting system to the company’s operations in order to fulfill the information needs. In order to reach this goal the following objectives were defined: to analyze the current state of cost accounting system of Testo Sensor to reveal its weaknesses and incompatibilities to address these incompatibilities by developing the improvements and possible optimization potentials In order to fulfill these objectives, the review of the German and English literature on the current topic was made in order to identify possible approaches and methods and provide a theoretical background for solutions of the existent problem. In addition to this, a number of interviews was held with the employees of Testo Sensor, as well as the parent company. Finally, the exact data for 2011 – 2015 for cost analysis was taken from the company’s database systems and other documentation. The result of the current paper represents a number of the optimization potentials, which relate to all elements of the cost accounting system. In addition to this, a proposal for implementation of cost center planning and control, which currently is not implemented in the company, was designed. The optimization proposals were developed with the consideration of the theoretical methods applied in German companies, as well as the company’s particular needs and possibilities.
This bachelor thesis aims at investigating relevant factors in performance management at the logistics service provider Kuehne + Nagel (AG & Co. KG) in Altenwerder, Hamburg. A shop floor management approach is developed and adjusted to specific requisites of the contract logistics warehousing environment.
Key performance indicators are identified and adapted to the requirements of shop floor employees. Thereby, shop floor management ought to serve as process optimization and establishment of regular communication structures involving operative personnel as well as local management. The literature research examines the shop floor management approach in line with lean and Kuehne + Nagel Production System principles. Corporate communication types as well as change management processes for the operative level in the warehousing industry are pointed out.
Furthermore, two surveys with operative employees of the pilot project are conducted, researching their perceptions before and after project implementation. Due to the nature of the qualitative analysis with Kuehne + Nagel employees, findings of this thesis are subjective. This work attempts to provide Kuehne + Nagel with project guidelines for an adjusted shop floor management approach as well as underline required procedures within human resource and change management.
A behavioral finance: An analysis of investment decision making regarding psychological influences
(2016)
Anywhere humans are interacting, emotions and psychology are important determinants to consider. This statement is true for financial markets as well and often there are occurrences which are not explainable by using traditional theories. Therefore, behavioral finance aims at finding explanations for such occurrences, referred to as anomalies, by combining economic and psychological research. The literature review presented in here shows recent developments in the field and gives an overview of research evidence by reviewing studies from six of the most investigated facets of behavioral finance. The review includes evidence from a variety of studies performed in different contexts to disclose the importance of understanding human behavior, especially in terms of financial markets and economy. The closure of this review consists of an alternative model and concludes that there might be a new science entering the collaboration between economists and psychologist which is computer science.
The research is the basis for a recommendation for an advantageous positioning of the research sponsor in its business line corporate banking on the issue; the business of sustainability with corporate clients. Simultaneously it gives an impression about the positioning of the research sponsor’s competitors in this business. The research is structured in three research questions; “How do ING WB and its competitors differentiate in their positioning, what are the needs of the clients a corporate bank is serving and how far are the actions of ING WB and of its competitors in consistence with what they are communicating?” The research questions are composed based on a positioning model. The outcome of the research questions provides data needed to formulate the recommendation for ING WB’s positioning. The research is comprised of a comparative analysis based on a desk research and secondary data analysis. The study revealed that the positioning of banks differ slightly from each other. Therefore a good positioning, which can be achieved by taking the outcome of the three research questions into consideration, is advantageous to be able to stand out in a competitive business.
How can Holidog use its touchpoints more efficiently in order to improve its performance in Germany?
(2016)
The main aim of this dissertation is to study how the company Holidog can improve the customer journey of customers in the German market, with a special focus on the evaluation of present touchpoints and actionable possibilities to create new touchpoints.
Holidog is an online platform for petsitting, present amongst others in the German market. This study focusses on improving the performance in this market by increasing traffic on the website and converting more of this traffic into bookings. Besides, it is evaluated which touchpoints are not efficient in order to free resources for more relevant touchpoints.
The sub-questions researched are:
How can Holidog increase the number of searches on the website?
How can Holidog convert more of the searches into bookings?
Which touchpoints are not efficient and could be abandoned?
The research has been conducted in the period from September 2015 to February 2016. Market information as well as company-specific information has been collected mainly through secondary data provided by the company next to eternal sources providing data about the industry. For testing new approaches, primary research through quantitative observation has been conducted.
The dissertation is structured in five main chapters: (I) Introduction presenting the research topic; (II) Theoretical basis about the petsitting industry and the company Holidog; (III) The current customer journey and all touchpoints created; (IV) Additional touchpoints the company could consider creating; (V) Overall recommendations and conclusion.
The aim of this bachelor’s thesis was to identify possible measures for the competence development of unskilled and semi-skilled workers in small and medium-sized enter-prises (SMEs), with a focus on the development of interdisciplinary competences. It is solely based on already existing research results and publications and shall provide an overview of the current state of knowledge regarding the issue.
To be able to find possibilities to develop interdisciplinary competences, essential terms as competence, knowledge and competence management as well as the target group of unskilled and semi-skilled workers and their specific learning needs have to be clarified. Under consideration of all relevant aspects, recommendations for interdisciplinary com-petence development, which fit to the target group, can be made. The results of this paper show that in comparison with other occupation groups unskilled and semi-skilled workers need more support regarding their learning process, as for ex-ample through the definition and control of fixed goals. Apart from continuous learning and sufficient time, especially forms of learning which are close to the workplace are appropriate. Despite all learning difficulties which characterize the target group, they rep-resent a not inconsiderable potential and an opportunity for enterprises to successfully overcome challenges such as globalisation, demographic change and the lack of qualified personnel.
Purpose: This research aims to analyze Generation Y, also known as Millennials in order to understand how companies can successfully address the members of the Generation, when introducing new technology. As Generation Ys influence on the market will be tremendously increasing it is important for marketing to understand the trends and behaviors that drive the Millennials buying decisions. The aim is to create understanding about changing trends and dependants that play a role in the Millennials behaviors and determine their values and attitudes towards new technology products.
Method: Best practices were elaborated from secondary data in form of scientific literature, primary data in form of research though a survey on Uber and case studies on Apples iWatch as well as Googles "Google Glass"
Conclusion: Millennials are a very complex generation. Therefore there is a lot to consider when marketing to Millennials should be effective. As Millennial cohorts change rapidly, marketers need to address its members in the right way to ensure sustainable results and effectiveness. In a changing environment they need to be one step ahead of trends and act as peers rather than treating Millennials as their target group. Millennials like experiences, therefore a good brand communication is essential to create trust and brand commitment.
The purpose for researching the topic of the globalization of sport, is to examine the extent to which baseball is a global sport. While many writers in the fields of sociology, anthropology, and the history of baseball have studied countries around the world on an individual basis; little to no research on globalization has been pursued. Therefore, a comprehensive analysis of baseball around the world is the focal point of this paper. This study is based on the work of Roland Robertson in the field of globalization and Richard Giulianotti in the field of soccer. Robertson, a professor of sociology at
Aberdeen University, developed a Five-Phase model of globalization which identifies key turning points in the evolution of globalization around the world. Giulianotti applied the Five-Phase model to the game of soccer to determine which factors played an essential role in the globalization of the sport.
The author has derived a list of critical research statements to guide the hypothesis that baseball is a global sport. This study considered literature of baseball around the world. Topics included the significance of Spalding’s Great Baseball World Tour,
examples of countries where baseball has been played, international baseball governing bodies and events, and baseball celebrities that have influenced the
game. Also, the author interviewed Nate Fish, Co-Director of the Israeli National Baseball team, and Tom Gillespie, International Baseball Scout for the Pittsburgh Pirates, to supplement the analysis.
The evidence of the global significance of baseball includes the prominence of an international governing body World Baseball Softball Confederation, international baseball events World Baseball Classic / Premier 12, and a large body of membership in internationally sanctioned events. Interest in the game is growing internationally, evidenced by the fact that 72% of the world recognizes the game of
baseball, online subscriptions for premium content are trending up, and records in attendance, viewership, sponsorship, and social media activity were achieved during the 2013 World Baseball Classic. The findings of this research suggest that there is an emerging market for international baseball.
Generation X and Y are going to dominate the workplace. With these generations the trend to better education especially for females is evident. Longer education and equal job opportunities of male and female is one reason for increasing assortative mating. This on the other hand leads to an increasing number of Dual Career Couples, meaning relationships where both partners aim to realize an own professional career. Dual Career Couples are challenged, when the company requires them to be mobile and one of them is offered an international assignment. While companies offer attractive mobility and partner support for the old classical family model with a bread-winner and an accompanying spouse, the new couples expect that also the partner has an attractive job opportunity at the new host location. Most organizations are not yet prepared to deal with those expectations adequately, in-house competence and infrastructure have to be developed. Universities discovered Dual Career Couples as attractive target group and have established a supporting infrastructure. Networks seem to be the most promising solution so far wherefore they will to be further expanded and supported.
Expatriation
(2016)
We are taking a look at the global deployment cycle, more precisely, the repatriation stage. Today many MNCs underestimate the challenges and difficulties returning assignees face upon return. MNCs have recognized the importance of support services and assistance before and during the international assignment. Even though literature findings have confirmed repatriation to be more difficult than expatriation, only a minority of MNCs invests resources in creating an effective repatriation program. The purpose of this thesis is to examine the repatriation phase within the global deployment cycle. Different factors influencing repatriation are analyzed and essential key action steps for a successful repatriation are identified. Also a closer is taken at how expectations and the commitment of international assignees are related to repatriation. In addition, the importance of cultural agility is discussed.
Die vorliegende Bachelorarbeit befasst sich mit dem Thema „Der Einfluss von Corporate Social Responsibility auf das Markenimage im Zwiespalt mit Profit und Moral“. Der Autor hat das Thema zum einen aufgrund der gestiegenen Relevanz von gesellschaftlicher Verantwortung seitens der Unternehmen und zum anderen aus persönlichem Interesse an Corporate Social Responsibility und Marken gewählt. Marken haben einen großen Einfluss auf die Menschen und auch Unternehmen, da sie Emotionen wiederspiegeln und eine Beziehung zu den Kunden herstellen können, die unter Umständen wiederum eine gewisse Loyalität gegenüber einer Marke entwickeln.
Die Bachelor-Thesis besteht im ersten Teil aus den theoretischen und historischen Grundlagen von Corporate Social Responsibility. Außerdem werden Richtlinien genannt, die eine nachhaltige und verantwortungsvolle Vorgehensweise seitens der Unternehmen sicherstellen sollen. Auch die Motive, die für CSR sprechen, werden vorgestellt. Der erste Teil soll dem Leser ein Basiswissen über Corporate Social Responsibility vermitteln und die Hinführung zu dem zweiten Teil der Thesis vereinfachen. Der Hauptteil beinhaltet die Auswirkung von Corporate Social Responsibility auf Marken und die Handlungsfelder von CSR. Abschließend wird eine Fallstudie auf Basis der theoretischen Grundlagen zeigen, wie ein Unternehmen Corporate Social Responsibility in seine Geschäftsstrategie integriert und erfolgreich umgesetzt hat. Als Praxisbeispiel dient hierbei die Alfred Ritter GmbH & Co. KG mit ihrer Marke Ritter Sport.
Die vorliegende Bachelorarbeit gibt einen Überblick darüber, inwiefern die gängigen Nachhaltigkeitslabels in Deutschland eine Hilfe für den nachhaltigen Konsumenten sind.
Dazu wurden 8 handelsübliche Labels miteinander verglichen. Das Hauptproblem der Labels war die fehlende Glaubwürdigkeit, aufgrund von fehlender Transparenz. In einem zweiten Schritt wurde ermittelt ob, und wenn ja, um wieviel sich die persönliche Zahlungsbereitschaft auch tatsächlich erhöht. Festgestellt wurde, durch Auswertung diverse Studien, dass sich die persönliche Zahlungsbereitschaft durchaus steigern lässt. Dazu muss die Preisbildung allerdings transparent nachvollziehbar sein. Es lässt sich sagen, dass sich die Zahlungsbereitschaft um ein Fünftel steigern lässt. Durch die Auswertung diverser Studien wurden Barrieren ermittelt, welche einen nachhaltigen Konsum erschweren. Auf Grundlage dieser Barrieren, wurden Handlungsempfehlungen entwickelt, durch die diese Barrieren überwindet werden könnten. Besonders interessant ist diese Arbeit für diejenigen, die den nachhaltigen Konsum fördern möchten. Dazu gehören die Initiatoren der bisherigen Labels, sowohl als auch zukünftige Initiatoren.
The paper intends to analyze the application of change management in family-owned businesses in the engineering industry of Baden-Württemberg. A lack in literature implies the necessity to specifically regard change management in this sector. The investigations are concerned with particularities in cultural dimensions of family-owned businesses and how these might affect the application of change management. The aim is to identify factors which enable businesses in this sector to improve change management and to maintain or enhance their effectiveness. On the basis of an analysis of relevant literature, assumptions for the application of change management in family-owned businesses in Baden-Württemberg’s engineering industry are derived. Bizerba GmbH & Co. KG is proved representative for this type of business. By means of a case study, the implementation of the tool Team Foundation Server at Bizerba GmbH & Co. KG, the change approach is applied in practice. To gain quantitative data, the change implementation is monitored. A survey is conducted and statistically investigated to examine the importance of applied factors during the change initiative. The research at Bizerba reveals several substantial results for the application of change management in this context. A universally applicable approach for change plays a minor role in this context. Rather, the application of specific factors is crucial for a successful implementation of change. During the change initiative the importance of factors modifies. “Soft factors” gain in relevance with the project’s progress. In this connection, the integration of the individual employee plays a significant role. The research results advise the application of individual stakeholder interviews and continuous communication. Commitment to change by formal leaders and informal leaders’ positive participation in the change initiative help overcome prevailing resistance to change. An explicit triggering event for change is not necessary in the context of the family-owned business. Though, the definition of a clear vision and objectives is of primary importance to achieve the understanding for change necessity amongst target group members. However, the sample size is too small for the research outcomes to be representative for all family-owned businesses in Baden-Württemberg’s engineering industry. Still, the research displays several factors and instruments which help establish effective internal change management capabilities for family-owned businesses in the engineering industry of Baden-Württemberg.
Network Marketing is a form of the direct selling retail channel of distribution and is one of the fastest growing industries worldwide. It has dramatically changed the way traditional businesses operates by mainly focusing on the success of his partners, their sales representatives to market their quality products provided. This industry produces billions of sales annually; however the lack of studies and information available on this field has led to lack of understanding and attack of being pyramid schemes. In this new era of technology, this profession continues to thrive as many people in particular women are looking for alternatives to the traditional corporate lifestyle. Furthermore, it has been found that becoming independent business owners in Network Marketing attracts the majority of women. Therefore, analyzing the characteristics of Network Marketing and the strategies deployed for their success is important to understand the reasons why women are willing to change their career path.
For these reasons, the thesis focuses on Network Marketing in order to provide an understanding of its rapid growth with an overview of its different phases from the beginning to the effect of the evolution of the Web 2.0 and social media. It goes forwards by investigating the characteristics of Network Marketing which appeal to women; by first examining their actual situation in the workplace in order to perceive their choice for leaving everything behind to start anew. Finally, a case study provides actual visibility and the new lifestyle of women being active in Network Marketing.
In the pursue of findings, the thesis includes primary research by conducting interviews with German and international independent network marketers, all women, and secondary research covering literature review on relevant topic.
In the end, it has been concluded and proved, despite the constant allegations, that Network Marketing is a serious and effective business model which benefits the company, the customers and the independent distributors. Moreover, it has been observed that this field fulfills the expectations of those women who want to escape from the challenges faced in the corporate world and desire an industry without barriers, as a result them being the majority and successful in this field.
The subject of this thesis is the consideration of cultural aspects in the developmental leadership approach using the example of the LEAD concept. The questions were if the LEAD concept could also be used for leading different cultures and how the developmental leadership model could be combined with different cultures. To answer these questions the LEAD concept by Matthias Hettl with its four parts leader, principles of success, tasks and carrying out is introduced and combined with the topic culture. The most important part of this concept is the developmental theory about the seven stages of a leader by Torbert and Rooke. By means of the findings of the GLOBE study the different cultural dimensions and their leadership profiles are described. Afterwards the different stages of a leader are matched to the different leadership profiles, which shows that leaders have to adapt to the leadership preferences of the culture in order to successfully lead the people. Furthermore some important models about developmental leadership and culture are introduced in order to explain the importance of intercultural competence in the area of leadership.
Nowadays, teams and projects are becoming more and more relevant in the business industry. The increasing internationalization and globalization of the economy leads to a more interconnected and globalize business and therefore also increasing competition. This requires new approaches for a more faster, flexible and innovative way to finding solutions. For this reason, there is an increase of international cooperation that can open up new opportunities, as well as generate challenges.
The purpose of this assignment is to identify the cultural differences between Germany and China and to determine the key aspect, which has to be considered in performing project management in a multicultural context. Furthermore, this assignment should demonstrate how cultures can affect the cooperation and if there is a potential way to standardize a multicultural cooperation to reduce the challenges that arise in multicultural teams.
The work is based on literature research using secondary data. In addition, an empirical study has been carried out to create a case study of an executed project with German and Chinese team members in China. The empirical study has been carried out as an expert interview with the German project manager who is currently working as an expatriate in China. This interview has been used to collect information about the plant relocation of a German-based company located in China.
The literature research has shown that political, technological, cultural, as well as communication aspects have to be considered in performing project management in a multicultural context. Also cultural difference affects leadership style. Therefore, the knowledge of different leadership styles is beneficial. Standardization for a multicultural cooperation is not possible due to the different situation in different context with different people. However, the knowledge about the effects of cultural values on the mindset and behavior can ease the teamwork. The case study confirms the findings as the project manager also had to deal with cultural, communication, and leadership issues, as well as dealing with cultural differences and the respond to it encourage the teamwork.
Das Ziel der Festo AG & Co. KG ist, durch Optimierung verschiedener Themenfelder die Shared Service Aktivitäten im Vertrieb zu verbessern. Dazu stellt der Autor in der Bachelorthesis „Entwicklung von Handlungsempfehlungen für den Einsatz von Shared Service im internationalen Vertrieb der Festo AG & Co. KG“, nach einer Einführung in das Thema, den Status Quo der drei Themenfelder Prozessauswahl, Organisation sowie Steuerung und Erfolgsmessung dar. Auf Basis dieser Darstellung werden anschließend durch Literaturrecherche mithilfe von Fachbüchern, wissenschaftlichen Artikeln und Publikationen von Unternehmensberatungen die Verbesserungspotenziale in diesen Feldern aufgezeigt, welche schließlich in entsprechende Handlungsempfehlungen münden. Zur Prozessauswahl wird dafür ein Modell erstellt, womit es gelingt, potenziell zu verlagernde Prozesse auf ihre tatsächliche Eignung zur Verlagerung in SSC zu analysieren. Die exemplarische Analyse mit vier Prozessen ergab, dass zwei Prozesse geeignet sind, ein anderer noch nicht geeignet ist und dass ein weiterer ungeeignet ist. Beim Thema Organisation ergibt die Analyse, dass die Anzahl von Festos SSC auf eines pro Region reduziert werden sollte, sodass größtmögliche Skaleneffekte erzielt werden können. Zudem empfiehlt es sich, einen Verantwortlichen pro Region zu ernennen, um die Kommunikation und Organisation zwischen den SSC und den Landesgesellschaften zu strukturieren. Zur Verbesserung der Steuerung und Erfolgsmessung der Shared Service Center wird empfohlen, die Nutzung von Service Level Agreements als Verbindung zwischen den SSC und den Landesgesellschaften auszubauen, und in diese die vorgeschlagenen KPIs zu integrieren. Durch diese Handlungsempfehlungen können die analysierten Potenziale innerhalb von Festos Shared Service Aktivitäten ausgeschöpft werden.
Die geringe bis nicht vorhandene Nutzung von mobilen Zahlungssystemen in Deutschland ist der Grund für diese Studie. Allerdings macht es Sinn, sich mit dieser neuen Technologie zu beschäftigen, da mobile Endgeräte einen sehr hohen Verbreitungsgrad haben und somit auch für eine Anwendung im Bereich der Zahlsysteme optimal sind und auch die technischen Voraussetzungen mit sich bringen. Heutige mobile Geräte sind Internetempfangsbereit um Zahlungen auszulösen oder zu autorisieren oder mit anderen Empfängern ausgestattet (NFC-Chips). Der Großteil der Forschung richtet sich allerdings auf den Kunden und seine Gründe, mobile Zahlungssysteme anzunehmen oder abzulehnen. Dieser Entwicklung soll mit dieser Thesis entgegengewirkt werden, da sie sich mit den Unternehmen beschäftigt und damit, welche Anwendungsmöglichen mobile Zahlungssysteme noch bieten sollen. Die Forschung in dieser Arbeit hat ergeben, das Unternehmen mobile Zahlungssysteme für die weitere Kundenbindung nutzen wollen und die verwendete Applikation zu Werbezwecken sowohl als auch Lagerbestandskontrollen einsetzen wollen.
Die zukünftige Forschung in diesem Bereich sollte sich weiter auf diese Punkte und ebenfalls auf weitere Nutzungsabsichten konzentrieren, damit Unternehmen einen weiteren Mehrwert in dieser neuen Technologie sehen.
Unsustainable production- and lifestyle patterns which are reaching into present have destroyed the global environment to such a degree, that severe consequence already became visible. Albert Einstein once said “A new way of thinking is necessary if humanity wants to live on.” Seeing themselves confronted with an enormous climatic change, scarce resources, and increasing inequalities, people became aware of the need for this new way of thinking - sustainable thinking. As agriculture is the sector which uses the largest amount of land it is essential that agricultural practices be performed sustainably. Instead of using more resources, farmers are called to increase their productivity by applying more efficient farming practices. By increasing productivity and efficiency, farmers could “close the gap between their actual and potential yield”. As if things weren’t tough enough as they are, the world population is increasing exponentially. As the world’s population increases, so too does the number of hungry. Therefore, the agricultural productivity needs to be increased by 70%. To achieve this goal, the smallholder sector – 84% of all people active in agriculture – needs to be empowered, enabling smallholder farmers to successfully contribute to global food security. This collaboration would generate four winners: The environment, as agricultural practices would be performed more sustainably, the world population, as there would be more food available, the smallholder farmers themselves, as they would generate more income by selling higher yields and would therefore be lifted out of poverty, and the agricultural companies, as they would gain additional trading partners. As worldwide smallholder situations differ substantially a tool – called the “Smallholder Maturity Model” - is needed to analyze the actual empowerment level of a specific smallholder population and by doing so, enabling agricultural institutions to address smallholders’ real needs and empower them long-term. The development of the aforementioned tool is based on reports published by esteemed agricultural organizations, articles written by research specialists, namable databases and interviews with internal and external specialists disposing about high class agricultural knowledge. According to the analysis-results of the present work, the smallholder farmers’ empowerment level strongly depends on being supported– in terms of financial support as well as trainings. Only smallholder farmers who are supported are able to apply good and sustainable agricultural practices, increase their efficiency and sell their yield more competitively. Therefore, the “Smallholder Maturity Model” is a helpful tool to generate a picture of the actual smallholder situation and facilitate the decision-making process of agricultural institutions interested in developing adequate supporting-strategies. In order to get country or crop specific survey results, the rating of the several possible answers could be adjusted to the specific regional conditions As the only objective is finding an effective way to empower smallholder farmers and improve their situations, both application methods are acknowledged.
Der moderne Kühlschrank von heute hat viele Funktionen, die einige Jahre zuvor unvorstellbar waren. Die modernen Kühlschränke können sich selbst regulieren, sich selbst reinigen und können die Kühlluft gleichmäßig verteilen. Eine Innovation entsprang vom Unternehmen Samsung und seinem Modell T9000. Ein Kühlschrank, der mit dem Internet verbunden wird und somit das Leben von früher auf den Kopf stellt. Es besitzt ein Display mit dem alle Geräte im Haushalt gesteuert werden können. Die Voraussetzung ist jedoch, alle Geräte müssen mit dem Internet verbunden und auch steuerbar sein. Was der moderne Kühlschrank bis heute jedoch nicht kann, ist die Unterstützung der Menschen beim Einkaufen.
Das Schreiben von Einkaufslisten und der ständige Überblick was im Kühlschrank oder Speiseschrank ver-blieben ist und welche Produkte bereits konsumiert wurden, fällt vielen schwer oder ist einfach nur lästig. Beim Einkaufen werden benötigte Produkte vergessen und jene Produkte, die nicht benötigt werden, werden einge-kauft. Das Führen von Einkaufslisten ist nervenzerreißend, da die Listen bis zum Einkauf gefüllt sind, jedoch beim Einkaufen entweder Zuhause oder im Auto vergessen werden. Dabei würde eine automatische Listenführung das Leben von vielen Menschen erleichtern. Die Einkaufsliste muss nicht mehr geführt werden. Sie aktualisiert sich selbst, wenn ein Produkt nicht mehr vorhanden ist und wird von dem Einkäufer aktualisiert, wenn das fehlende Produkt eingekauft worden ist.
Die vorliegende Thesis behandelt die Thematik „Java Programmierung im Bereich Internet of Things - Ver-wendung eines Raspberry Pi zur Erstellung von digitalen Einkaufslisten - Kann mit Hilfe eines Raspberry Pi das Einkaufen revolutioniert werden?“. Dabei wird in Kombination eines Raspberry Pi und einem Barcode-Scanner ein System entwickelt, das digitale Einkaufslisten erstellt und die Pflege der Produkte über das Internet ermög-licht.
Das Ziel dieser Bachelorthesis ist es, ein System zu entwickeln, das den Benutzer beim Einkaufen unter-stützt und das Kaufen von falschen oder unnötigen Produkten vermeidet. Dabei wird aus der Kombination eines Raspberry Pi und einem Barcode-Scanner eine Produktverwaltungskomponente erstellt, die die verbrauchten Produkte einscannt und dabei automatisch eine Einkaufsliste erstellt, die die benötigten Produkte beinhaltet.
The importance of internationalization to achieve a competitive advantage in the business world has increased greatly in recent years. Especially in the fashion industry, where competition has increased tremendously and globalization plays a more important role, it is essential to find new ways in order to be unique. To succeed in internationalization in the fashion industry, companies must have a basic knowledge of their markets and follow clear strategies. The purpose of this thesis is to answer the question why fashion companies nowadays need to create a competitive advantage and expand their market internationally. In addition, it will also address the challenges that an American brand can face in the European fashion industry. The company chosen for this research is Shoshanna LLC, a contemporary American women’s wear brand based in New York City.
With regard to methodology, a multi-‐purpose approach has been conducted. The conclusions have been reached with theoretical knowledge, personal experience, a survey and interviews with experts in this industry. The conclusions of this thesis will give Shoshanna LLC a better understanding of internationalization processes in the fashion industry and the strategies required. It will also answer the question of how the chosen strategies can be a guideline for the company.
Beherrscht man die Suchmaschinen, so beherrscht man auch den Online-Markt.
Wie man im Allgemeinen Suchmaschinen-Optimierung betreibt, beschreiben bereits viele verlässliche und fundierte Quellen. Eine oft ungeklärte Fragestellung bleibt jedoch: Wie betreibt man Suchmaschinen-Optimierung für einen Online-Shop, der international und mehrsprachig vertreten ist? In dieser Thesis möchte ich auf die Besonderheiten eingehen, die man bei einer erfolgreichen und langfristigen Suchmaschinen-Optimierung im internationalen Kontext beachten sollte. Als Hauptquelle möchte ich hierbei die offiziellen Angaben seitens Google und einiger Experten vorstellen und analysieren.
Ein Problem welches beispielsweise entsteht, wenn mehrere URLs zu gleichen Inhalten führen, ist der sog. Duplicate Content. Ein weiteres Problemfeld der Online-Anbieter liegt bei der Keyword-Kannibalisierung. Gemeint ist jene Situation, dass verschiedene Produkte eines Online-Shops mit weiteren ähnlichen Produkten desselben Anbieters (beispielsweise ein USB-Stick in verschiedenen Farb- und Kapazitäts-Ausführungen) bei Suchmaschinen untereinander konkurrieren.
Diese Thesis geht zum einen hauptsächlich darauf ein, wie man Duplicate Content und Keyword-Kannibalisierung bei internationalen und gleich- sowie mehrsprachigen Online-Shops und Webseiten vermeidet. Ein weiterer Kernpunkt dieser Thesis ist es, ein Domainkonzept und eine Content-Strategie zu entwickeln, die für einen Erfolg von internationalen Webauftritten unabdingbar sind. Ziel dieser Thesis ist es SEO-Maßnahmen zu erarbeiten, die das Ranking aller internationalen Ableger eines internationalen Online-Shops gleichermaßen, zeitgleich und langfristig verbessert.
In the wake of the financial crisis of 2007, the largest economies of our times struggled hard with adverse economic shocks. Several central banks (CBs) employed their conventional monetary policy tools to their limits and beyond. When failing in their attempt, unconventional monetary policies got gradually introduced in order to stimulate the overall economy, to alleviate market dysfunctions and to reduce liquidity shortages. Building on diverse research conducted by international researchers and data provided by international economic institutions, this paper gives a comprehensive overview of different types of unconventional monetary policy tools that were, and still are, broadly employed. The concept of Quantitative Easing (QE) with its opportunities and risks will be elaborated, as well as appropriate exit strategies from these unconventional monetary policy measures. Putting a special focus on the QE programs run by the Bank of Japan, the Bank of England and the European Central Bank, the successes and failures of real-world examples of unconventional monetary policies will be analyzed in detail. In order to evaluate the usefulness of QE, a comparison of theoretical and real-world results will be conducted. The paper finds that even though QE had a broad range of positive effects on selected economic aspects, the risks of both over-indebtedness and a too strong dependence of economies on highly accommodative monetary policies prevail. Before considering an exit from QE – if still possible at all – many years of further monetary easing and economic stimulus will pass. The raison d’être of unconventional monetary policies, mainly QE, over an extent period of time is doubtful and will have to be closely monitored in the years to come.
Aufgrund der Überalterung der Gesellschaft wird der Generationenvertrag für jüngere Generation zu einem Problem. Da nicht genügend Kapital in die gesetzliche Rentenversicherung fließt, werden spätere Rentennehmer kaum bis keine gesetzlichen Rentenansprüche geltend machen können. Somit müssen andere Rentensparmodelle in Betracht gezogen werden, wie beispielsweise private Altersvorsorgemodelle. Im Fall der privaten Altersvorsorge bieten fondsgebundene Lebens-und Rentenversicherungen eine Alternative. Vor dem Hintergrund der Niedrigzinsstände und den daher renditeschwachen Kapitalmärkten gilt es alternative Anlageklassen in Erwägung zu ziehen. Die hierbei betrachtete Anlageklasse ist Private Equity. Private Equity Fonds zählen zu der Klasse der alternativen Investmentfonds und bieten Aussichten auf positive, reale Renditen. Im Zuge dieser Arbeit wird eine Beurteilung über die Dienlichkeit und Eignung der Anlageklasse im Rahmen der privaten Altersvorsorge getroffen. Dazu wird das private Altersvorsorgemodell der fondsgebundenen Lebensversicherung erläutert sowie die Anlageklasse Private Equity detailliert betrachtet. Anhand von 6 Kriterien wird zuletzt untersucht, ob eine Investition im Rahmen einer Lebensversicherung sinnvoll ist. Dabei ergibt sich der Fakt dass Private Equity als Anlageklasse für fondsgebundenen Lebensversicherungen gut geeignet ist, während das Produkt der fondsgebundenen Lebensversicherung jedoch signifikante Schwächen aufweist. Diese Schwachpunkte führen dazu, von einer Private Equity Investition im Rahmen eines Fondsdepots einer Lebensversicherung abzusehen. Stattdessen ist es sinnvoller als Privatanleger in Private Equity Dachfonds anzulegen und dies komplementär zu anderen geeigneten Vorsorgemodellen zu betreiben.
The present paper identifies appropriate communication strategies to support the implementation of Cross Selling (CS) in the sales organization illustrated on the example of Robert Bosch GmbH. Therefore the focus is on the analysis of internally applied communication media in order to determine strong and weak points. In the first instance, an extensive literature research with respect to CS is conducted and a theoretical framework of effective communication provided. Subsequently, an empirical study is being carried out. Surveys are sent worldwide to the CS Coordinators at Bosch in order to analyse currently applied communication media and identify possible communication gaps. Furthermore, an expert interview with CS project leader Paulo Ferreira is conducted in order to gain additional insights into the CS field within Bosch. In the process, it results that the CS project team already makes an adequate use of communication means; but nevertheless there is still potential for improvement with respect to certain communication activities. The results indicate that the most effective communication techniques are based on face-to-face interaction with a high degree of social presence and information richness. By the application of theoretical foundations combined with knowledge obtained through primary research, a recommended course of action is issued on how to further optimize the communication within the central CS project team. On this basis, the recommendation is given to develop an internal integrated marketing communication program which takes a number of additional measures into consideration. In addition, limitations of this study as well as future perspectives are being discussed.
The recruitment and selection process in the mining sector in Zimbabwe has proven to be a challenge to both the management and the prospective employees. The mining sector is one industry that is of interest to the author as it contributes over half of the country’s Gross Domestic product. Employment in Zimbabwe is very high in the world due to the poor performance of the economy which is a result of mismanagement of the country. This paper seeks to examine the challenges that are faced by the prospective employees when seeking for jobs in the mining sector and also the challenges that the management faces in the recruitment and selection process. After the examination of those challenges, the author will provide a detailed analysis of the root causes of these challenges and then at the end provide recommendations in order to fix the challenges. This paper will also serve as one of the basis of further study of the recruitment and selection process in the mining sector in Zimbabwe
Many employees use the internet for non-work related activities nowadays. This cyberslacking behaviour is put into connection with flexible work arrangements, in which the employee also completes work tasks outside of the workplace in a sort of balancing act between work and non-work. Many companies perceive cyberslacking to be deviant and counterproductive and battle it with internet monitoring systems. Other companies perceive cyberslacking to be beneficial for learning, creativity and productivity. This thesis will use Douglas McGregor’s ‘Theory X and Theory Y’ and the concepts of the Psychological Contract and Corporate Culture in order to understand the psychological background these of opposing opinions on cyberslacking and its effects on company and employee attitudes and behaviours following monitoring or acceptance of cyberslacking in a company. The results show a considerable fit to the three concepts presented in this thesis. The results suggest that the acceptance of cyberslacking has the effect of increased motivation and productivity and that monitoring and control reduce trust and productivity in total which is the opposite of the goal of monitoring systems. Future research should be conducted on the discrepancy of the positive effects of permitting cyberslacking and the increasing number of companies which use control and monitoring systems to fight it and on the underlying reasons why productivity is reduced through cyberslacking (the effect of perceived mistrust etc.).
The objective of this research paper is to analyse the current planning method of the Zumtobel Group AG with regards to traditional and more recent trends in the field of planning, more precisely budgeting and forecasting. Furthermore, a planning software tool is evaluated concerning its benefits and drawbacks for the Zumtobel Group AG. The aim is to find out whether the tool is appropriate for the company and if it is adding value to the planning process.
The first part of this research paper, which is analysing different approaches in budgeting and forecasting, is based on secondary data. In order to build the theoretical foundation of the paper, academic literature such as peer-reviewed journals, text-books and articles are used. The second part of the paper, which is focusing on the Zumtobel Group AG’s budgeting and forecasting process, as well as the software tool, is mainly based on primary data. First-hand interviews with experts of the Zumtobel Group AG are carried out along with supporting documents of the company.
The result of the research is that the planning approach of the Zumtobel Group AG reveals some advantages, but also disadvantages. However, a considerable percentage of these disadvantages can be eliminated by the implementation of a supportive planning software tool. As the optimal tool, SAP BPC is selected. This tool is able to depict the complex organisational structure of the company, as well as is adding value to the planning process by supporting planning and also reporting functionalities.
This research paper helps the Zumtobel Group AG first to make the decision in favour of implementing a planning software tool and second in making the decision which planning software tool is the most suitable one. The value which is added through the implementation can be better assessed.
Die vorliegende wissenschaftliche Arbeit entstand im Rahmen einer Kooperation mit der Infoman AG, einem Beratungs- und IT-Lösungshaus im Bereich CRM. Angesichts kontinuierlicher Veränderungsprozesse und Innovationen im Bereich der Informationstechnologie, welche auch, verstärkt durch die enorme Geschwindigkeit des Marktes, eine hohe Komplexität der Branche nach sich ziehen, kommt der zu analysierenden Thematik eine hohe Aktualität zu. Die Ermittlung von Rahmenbedingungen und die Ableitung sich daraus ergebender Handlungsempfehlungen zur erfolgreichen Integration von Junioren (Hochschulabsolventen) in wissensintensive IT-Strukturen, stellt das primäre Ziel dieser Arbeit dar. Langfristig soll der Einarbeitungsprozess von Junioren bei der Infoman AG optimiert werden, damit Hochschulabsolventen in Zukunft eine Alternative zu erfahrenen Wissensarbeitern darstellen können, welche in der aktuellen Situation nur schwer am Arbeitsmarkt zu finden sind. Mithilfe qualitativer Leitfaden-Interviews mit den Führungskräften der Infoman AG, konnten wichtige Erkenntnisse hinsichtlich bisheriger Vorgehensweisen, Problemen und Verbesserungspotenzialen im Einarbeitungsprozess von Junioren gewonnen werden. Handlungsbedarf wurde v.a. in der Anpassung der Rahmenbedingungen durch das Unternehmen erkannt. Bei zukünftigen Modifizierungen des Einarbeitungskonzepts von Junioren sollten daher v.a. Einarbeitungsinstrumente und das Zielerreichungs-Modell (aufeinander) abgestimmt und angepasst sowie das Vorhandensein eines für den Junior passenden Projektes gewährleistet werden.
Personalarbeit in der Industrie 4.0: Einführung einer digitalen Personalakte in der Zimmer Group
(2016)
Die vorliegende Thesis thematisiert die aufkommenden Herausforderungen, welche sich für die Personalarbeit im Zuge der Einführung von Industrie 4.0 ergeben werden. Neue Technologien werden definiert und in Gartner’s Hype Cycle eingeordnet, um sie auf ihre Realisierbarkeit in der Praxis hin zu untersuchen. Zudem werden Grenzen der Einsatzmöglichkeiten dieser Technologien ausgewertet. Anschließend erläutert der Praxisteil die aktuelle Situation hinsichtlich des Standes der Industrie 4.0 und der Digitalisierung in der Personalabteilung der Zimmer Group. Des Weiteren werden die Projektphasen, welche sich auf die Einführung einer digitalen Personalakte beziehen, aufgeführt sowie analysiert, ob die Einführung einer digitalen Personalakte eine sinnvolle Investition für die Zimmer Group darstellt. In welcher Weise neue Technologien zukünftig in der Personalabteilung gewinnbringend eingesetzt werden können, wird abschießend dargestellt.
Aufgrund der zunehmenden Bedeutung von Soft Skills in der beruflichen Praxis erfährt besonders die Ausbildung an Fachhochschulen eine Umstrukturierung, wozu die Implementierung von alternativen Lehrmethoden gehört, welche diese Schlüsselkompetenzen gezielter fördern sollen. Obwohl Unternehmensplanspiele zu diesen gehören, wurde deren Lernerfolg bisher jedoch nur durch eine begrenzte Anzahl von Studien wissenschaftlich untersucht, wobei besonders die langfristigen Effekte vernachlässigt wurden. Diese empirische Studie soll einen Beitrag dazu leisten, diese Lücke zu schließen, und zu zukünftigen Forschungen diesbezüglich anregen. Basierend auf theoretisch fundierten Fragebögen wurden zwei Stichproben, die sich aus Studenten einer Fachhochschule zusammensetzten, über den Lernerfolg bei der Anwendung des Unternehmensplanspiels „TOPSIM General Management II“ befragt. Obwohl durch den Planspieleinsatz hauptsächlich die fachlichen Fähigkeiten gestärkt wurden, verdeutlichen die Ergebnisse, dass zumindest aus kurzzeitiger Frist auch überfachliche Kompetenzen verbessert werden können und dass der Erfolg von zahlreichen Faktoren beeinflusst wird. Dagegen zeigen sich aus langfristiger Sicht nur geringere Effekte, sodass sich zukünftige Planspielveranstaltungen und Studien besonders auf die Langfristigkeit konzentrieren sollten.
Business Process Management (BPM) is a systematic approach to analyze, optimize, standardize and control business processes. It proves to be an effective tool in order to attend to growing customer requirements and the need for process performance improvements. Hence, it is the objective of the division of Customer Supply Chain Service (CUS) of the Automotive Aftermarket at Robert Bosch GmbH to implement standardized business processes in all European CUS regional organizations. Combining the findings from literature, group discussions and the results from Business Process Optimization workshops, this thesis aims to collect important data for the creation of value stream maps with Microsoft VISIO. As a result, all AS-IS and TO-BE core business processes of CUS were modelled. Additionally, the TO-BE business processes were integrated and visualized as one Business Process Model framework for all CUS organizations across Europe for the purpose of showing interrelations of the business processes, standardization, documentation and transparency enhancement.
Ensuring that the optimized business processes are not only documented, but successfully rolled-out across all European regional organizations of CUS is an immense challenge which many companies in the past have failed to overcome. Therefore, the purpose of this thesis is to empirically research the critical success factors and challenges for the implementation of redesigned and standardized business processes as well as the organizational changes of CUS. The research method involved half-structured interviews with experts in the field of BPM taking recourse to a literature review. These factors need to be considered and strategically catered to since they have a strong signaling effect for the further success of the change project. Findings of the research reveal a demand for improvement of communication to affected employees and the call for a successive roll-out plan for the implementation as opposed to a radical “Big Bang” change of all business processes across all regional organizations. By applying a gradual step-by-step implementation strategy, “quick wins” in terms of easy-to-implement business processes can be achieved. These instant optimizations lead to employees losing resistance and hesitation towards the change project. Limitation to the research is the application to a single case of one specific organizational unit in the Automotive Aftermarket.
Economics of war
(2016)
The twentieth century was a period of great agitation in terms of historical and political events. Two World Wars erupted between 1914 and 1945 in a world already changing. They were separated by both growth and depression. This deeply impacted economics worldwide. In order to understand how the events reshaped the economical world and what it modified, the available literature was reviewed and summarized to focus on the main changes. This helps us to better comprehend the situation for the people at the time, and the economic order as we know it today. The wars had different consequences on countries, as France hosted the fights, it was fully destroyed and its economy was a ruin, while the United States did not fight the war on its soil, the wars boosted its economy, and it exited as a major economic power. This paper showed that war economy is incredibly expensive and hard to finance, being a considerable burden on any economy. Trade appears as a superior choice for countries, because as exchanges increase, the life of population improves, alike the economic health of a country.
The neuromerchandising group GmbH & Co KG, creates holistic experiences for
customers at the point of sale by leveraging the latest findings of research in
neuroscience and evolutionary biology. In order to find an appropriate research tool
to analyze customers` attitudes at the POS three survey methods are tested,
evaluated, and compared against each other at the example of an attitude survey for
the MyMuesli GmbH. A traditional attitude survey method is less reliable due to
issues with bias compared to the other two methods. Possible reasons for bias are
explained in this work. The projective technique survey, which uses indirect
questions, is rather ambiguous and long, and the third method, which uses a card
game for the responses, is inappropriate for detailed statistical analysis. A
combination of the methods is recommended and suggestions for improvement are
made throughout this work.
The primary objective of this study is to determine the direction of Bosch
workshop service concepts in India. The approach is based on Classic Bosch Car
Service, one of the world’s largest independent workshop concept owned by
Robert Bosch GmbH. In the era of high competition where the mindset of
customers is rapidly changing and technology is evolving; therefore, Bosch is
continuously working on developing new workshop service concepts such as
Franchise Bosch Car Service and Digital Bosch Car Service. Therefore, this study
examine two research question a) on which workshop service concept Bosch
should focus in India b) how to increase the number of franchisees for the future
concept. This study focuses on India because it is an emerging market where car
repair industry is growing rapidly.
The first part of the thesis explains the concept of workshop service and
franchising. The second part provides a complete overview (franchise model,
value proposition, etc.) of three concepts. The final part consists of empirical
research which includes the findings from end customer and franchisee surveys.
The findings from practical and empirical part revealed that Franchise Bosch Car
Service (FRC BCS) is ideal for the Indian market and end customer. Therefore,
Bosch should focus on developing its network of FRC BCS in the short term. The
usage of different marketing tools, partnership with financial institutes, individual
onboarding program and approaching private investors will help to increase the
number of franchisees.
In the long-term, Bosch should consider going in the direction of Digital Bosch
Car to increase market share and maintain its competitiveness.
Entrepreneurs are the people who start their own businesses, who take risk, find solution of problems and come up with idea which gives them financial benefits. The purpose of writing this thesis to find out the value business schools are providing to the entrepreneurs. Do the entrepreneurs get the right skills from the business schools? To find out the reason, which skills business schools are lacking to provide to the entrepreneurs. Why still now a day’s world leading companies are invented by the entrepreneurs who dropped out of college or who quite from their education which was not important for them for example Microsoft, Apple, McDonald, Facebook and many other successful brands in the world are being led by the people who has no good education. To find out the reasons and opinion from students a questionnaire was prepared to get results from people belong to different background, different nationalities and different cultures. 84% participants were students from business schools. The outcome of survey shows that business schools are not transferring value to the entrepreneurial mind students; many students also supported idea to start your own business during your studies. It lead to the pathway which had chosen by the successful entrepreneurs, in the other words if you find opportunity to start your own business then leave your studies behind and go for it. 69% respondents vote in favor that the universities should start degree in entrepreneurship; moreover 52% respondents want to become entrepreneurs. Furthermore, least important entrepreneurial characteristic is Good Education as well as good education is also least important to start your own business. It indicates that there is serious need to start entrepreneurial education in the schools and universities. The curriculum of business schools need to be review according to the needs of entrepreneurial mind students.
Die vorliegende Bachelor-Arbeit beschreibt die Konzeption und prototypische Entwicklung einer Web-Applikation für kollaboratives Schreiben fiktiver Texte im Rollenspiel-Stil. Sie klärt dabei die Frage, wie eine Web-Applikation für kollaboratives Schreiben fiktiver Texte im Rollenspiel-Stil funktions-technisch und software-technisch umgesetzt werden kann. Die Applikation soll sowohl sequentielles als auch reagierendes kollaboratives Schreiben unterstützen.
Der Prototyp dieser Applikation wurde mittels Requirements Engineering entwickelt. Bei der Analyse wurden funktionale und nicht-funktionale Anforderungen über die Definitionen für Rollenspiele (J. Arjoranta, 2011) und kollaboratives Schreiben (Paul Benjamin Lowry, Aaron Curtis und Michelle René Lowry, 2004) aufgestellt. Anschließend wurde ein Funktionsumfang der Grundfunktionen und Erweiterungen erarbeitet. Zudem wurden vorhandene und aktuell verwendete Applikationen für kollaboratives Schreiben und Schreibrollenspiele auf ihren Funktionsumfang analysiert. Durch den Vergleich der Funktionsumfänge wurde so herausgestellt, dass eine Applikation für kollaboratives Schreiben fiktiver Texte benötigt wird.
Im praktischen Teil der Thesis wurden Entwurfsmuster für die Web-Applikation er-stellt. Dazu wurden Use-Case-Diagramme und -Beschreibungen angefertigt. Außerdem wurden Sequenzdiagramme der technischen Abläufe der einzelnen Use-Cases beschrieben.
Implementiert wurde die Web-Applikation ausgehend von der Anforderungsanalyse mit einem RESTful Web-Service und Web-Client. Der Web-Service basiert auf Java Spring und einer relationalen Datenbank. Der Web-Client wurde auf Basis von JavaScript, Backbone.js, jQuery, HTML 5 und CSS 3 entwickelt.
Der vorläufige Prototyp wurde auf Basis einer qualitativen und quantitativen Umfrage evaluiert. Auf Grundlage der Evaluationsergebnisse wurde der Prototyp angepasst. Ergebnis der Arbeit ist ein evaluierter und verbesserter Prototyp für kollaboratives Schreiben fiktiver Texte im Rollenspiel-Stil.
Ein kleiner Brand bei einem Zulieferer, eine Grenzsperrung auf dem Transportweg oder ein Erdbeben wie 2011 in Japan. Welche Auswirkungen haben solche Geschehnisse auf Unternehmen? Der Schwerpunkt dieser Arbeit liegt auf einem mittelständischen Unternehmen, das bereits ein Supply Chain Risikomanagement installiert hat aber immer noch von Störungen in seiner Lieferkette betroffen ist. Ziel ist deshalb, dem Unternehmen Optimierungspotentiale seines Risikomanagements aufzuzeigen. Zur Identifizierung der Verbesserungspotentiale werden die aktuell verwendeten Instrumente des Risikomanagements anhand einer Befragung und Gesprächen mit Mitarbeitern dargestellt. Die Schwachstellenanalyse zeigt auf, was bei den Instrumenten optimiert werden sollte. Zur Ausarbeitung einer Empfehlung wird zum einen eine Literaturstudie, bei der Methoden und Instrumente für das Risikomanagement genannt und auf ihre Anwendbarkeit in der Praxis geprüft werden, durchgeführt. Zum anderen werden Instrumente verändert, um sie für das Risikomanagement in dem mittelständischen Unternehmen anzuwenden. Die Literaturstudie zeigt, dass das Supply Chain Risikomanagement theoretisch sehr weit entwickelt ist, allerdings die praktische Anwendung bei mittelständischen Unternehmen erhebliche Mängel aufweist. Die Einführung des in der Theorie angewendeten Vier-Phasen-Modell des Risikomanagementprozesses erscheint in Hinblick auf die internen Gegebenheiten bei dem Unternehmen, nicht sinnvoll. Deshalb werden stattdessen Instrumente wie ein Lieferantenportal, eine Monitoringsoftware, ein Lieferantenaward und ein erweitertes Bewertungsschema empfohlen, da diese auf die Bekämpfung der aktuellen Probleme zugeschnitten sind.
Ziel dieser Bachelor Arbeit ist es, die Erreichung theoretischer Ziele der Kommunikationspolitik von Nonprofit-Organisationen empirisch auf Social Media Kanälen zu überprüfen. Dazu werden Social Media Marketing Modelle vorgestellt, anhand der Besonderheiten der Nonprofit-Organisationen bewertet und anschließend empirisch erforscht. Im empirischen Teil wird zum einen die Fallstudienanalyse anhand der Facebook Auftritte der Nonprofit-Organisationen durchgeführt und zum anderen die Inhaltsanalyse anhand der Kampagnenvideos auf YouTube. Abgerundet wird der empirische Teil mit einer Umfrage unter Nonprofit-Organisationen zu ihrem Social Media Auftritt. Abschließend werden anhand des Vergleichs der empirischen und theoretischen Erkenntnisse Handlungsempfehlungen ausgesprochen, die Nonprofit-Organisationen annehmen können. Die Bachelorarbeit ist für Studierende geeignet, die Interesse an Nonprofit-Organisationen oder Social Media haben.
Der demographische Wandel hat einen starken Einfluss auf die Bevölkerung in Deutschland. Die Anzahl der Menschen wird dadurch abnehmen und es kommt zu einer zunehmenden Überalterung. In diesem Zusammenhang ist es interessant zu beobachten welche Auswirkungen diese Thematik sowohl auf dem Arbeitsmarkt als auch auf die Wirtschaft in Deutschland hat und welche Maßnahmen die Unternehmen und die Politik ergreifen können. Das Ziel dieser Arbeit ist es herauszufinden, wie sich das Erwerbspersonenpotenzial in Deutschland entwickeln könnte, wie groß die Produktivität der wachsenden Anzahl von älteren Mitarbeitern noch ist und welche gesamtwirtschaftlichen Konsequenzen dies zur Folge hat. Anschließend werden Lösungsansätze und Strategien erläutert, die von den Unternehmen und der Politik durchgeführt werden können, um die Konsequenzen des demographischen Wandels abzumildern. Denn die Auswirkungen werden ansonsten den Arbeitsmarkt in den kommenden Jahren enorm prägen. Das liegt besonders daran, da das Erwerbspersonenpotenzial ab 2020 einbrechen wird. Deshalb müssen sich die Unternehmen Strategien überlegen, wie sie ihren Bedarf an Fachkräften decken können. Die Politik kann sie dabei unterstützen, indem sie durch geeignete Maßnahmen die Anzahl der Fachkräfte auf dem Arbeitsmarkt erhöht und damit auch gleichzeitig das Wirtschaftswachstum fördert. Die Folgen der steigenden Anzahl von älteren Erwerbstätigen sind im Verhältnis dazu nur gering. Ihre nachlassende Produktivität in manchen Bereichen, kann von ihrer Arbeitserfahrung kompensiert werden. Die Unternehmen müssen sich jedoch dieser Tatsache bewusst werden und die älteren Mitarbeiter gezielt dort einsetzen, wo sie ihre Stärken ausspielen können. Trotz geeigneter Maßnahmen von Unternehmen und Politik können die Auswirkungen des demographischen Wandels nicht aufgehalten sondern nur abgefedert werden.
This study belongs to the field of innovation research and is based on the application of a theoretical concept of a technology acceptance. The theoretical concept developed in the context of this research work is investigating the connection between efficiency, quality, security and business process re-engineering and the intention to adopt mobile payments technologies by merchants within the retail industry. Mobile payments is an emerging topic which is currently experiencing a rise. Although there are significant differences in a level of mobile payments acceptance around the world, the widespread adoption of the technology has not prevailed yet. Moreover, more research is needed to investigate and explain retailers’ prospective on the mobile payments adoption. The growing scientific interest in this topic is relevant in terms of innovation development, theories of global competition platforms and evolving landscape of global payment systems.
From this holistic prospective the fundamental hypotheses and crucial questions in terms of mobile payments adoption by merchants were derived. The analysis of the data sample of 90 companies of various sizes and operating in different industries obtained by means of a survey conducted at one of the largest trade fairs in Munich, Germany in autumn 2015. The data was analyzed using descriptive univariate and multivariate methods and the significance of the conceptual framework was validated. A major positive trend in mobile payments adoption was indicated. The findings of this research suggest that efficiency had a significant positive influence on the intention to adopt mobile payments by merchants. Banks and credit card companies were recognized as the most preferred mobile payments providers among retailers with an increasing interest towards independent companies. Based on the findings, the scientific guidelines for the future research were outlined and the concrete recommendations from the managerial prospective for achieving a successful adoption of mobile payments among merchants were suggested.
The abolition of the minimum exchange rate between the Swiss Franc and the Euro and its consequences
(2016)
The Swiss National Bank (SNB) abolished the minimum exchange rate between the Swiss Franc and the Euro of 1.20 CHF/€ at the beginning of 2015. The ensuing appreciation of the Franc against the Euro was not to be without consequences. This Bachelor´s thesis examines these consequences and to whom they may apply on the basis of a wide range of literature. Firstly, the author explains the theoretical basics of exchange rates, from the different exchange rate regimes to the appreciation and depreciation of currencies. The following chapter deals with background information of the Swiss Franc and the minimum exchange rate. Furthermore, this thesis looks at the consequences of the abolition of the minimum exchange rate and focuses, amongst other things, for example on the economy in Switzerland and the bordering Euro countries. The last part consists of a conclusion. Since the beginning of World War I, and through economic and political stability, the Swiss Franc became stronger and stronger and finally became a safe-haven-currency. During the financial crisis Switzerland received huge capital imports. To stop the on-going appreciation of the Franc, the SNB introduced the minimum exchange rate in 2011 which lasted until January 2015. For reasons like a weakening Euro and the announcement of the ECB´s quantitative easing, the SNB decided to let the Franc float freely again as it would have been too expensive for the SNB to keep the exchange rate constant at 1.20 CHF/€. Swiss exporters and hoteliers are affected by the consequences of this decision as their goods and hotel prices have become much more expensive for clients from the Euro area. The Swiss retail in the bordering area loses its clients to the other countries as they can shop cheaper over there. And everyone who has a loan or mortgage denominated in Swiss Francs and without having insured the exchange rate risk will have to pay back higher interest and loan amount. Hence,this Bachelor´s Thesis came to the conclusion that the negative consequences for the Swiss economy are still strong but the Franc devalued subsequently through a lower attractiveness and the negative interest rates which the SNB established.
Die Abteilung Warranty Handling der MAN Truck & Bus AG strebt eine qualitativ höherwertigere Antragsbearbeitung im Rahmen der Gewährleistungsabwicklung an. Darauf aufbauend gerät das Thema der Kundenzufriedenheit zu einer zentralen Zielgröße für diese Abteilung. Dieses Ziel lässt sich in mehrstufigen Absatzsystemen erschwert steuern, da die Nutzfahrzeughersteller nur selten in direktem Kundenkontakt stehen. Die persönliche Kundeninteraktion findet vermehrt in der Werkstatt statt, insbesondere im Falle von Gewährleistungsreparaturen. In diesem Zusammenhang bestätigt die Wissenschaft, dass von einem positiven Effekt der Händlerzufriedenheit auf die Kundenzufriedenheit ausgegangen werden kann. Die vorliegende Arbeit gibt im ersten Teil einen Überblick über die theoretischen Grundlagen von händler- und kundenzufriedenheitsrelevanten Kriterien im Kundendienst und B2B Geschäftsbeziehungen. Hierbei werden die Strukturen und Beziehungen der Wirtschaftsakteure Hersteller-Händler-Kunde in der Nutzfahrzeugbranche näher betrachtet.
Der zweite Teil beschreibt die praktische Gewährleistungsantragsprüfung der MAN Truck & Bus AG und widmet sich den kundenzufriedenheitsrelevanten Zielen. Anschließend wurden – in Zusammenarbeit mit den nationalen Importeuren – zufriedenheitsrelevante Kriterien der Gewährleistungsabwicklung identifiziert. Aufbauend darauf wurde eine empirische Studie mit 169 Händlern durchgeführt, um mögliche Schwachstellen aufzudecken und diese zu optimieren. Die Umsetzung der Erkenntnisse und Empfehlungen sollen im ersten Schritt die Händlerzufriedenheit positiv beeinflussen und sich somit positiv auf die Zufriedenheit der Kunden auswirken.