The Importance Of Cartoon Animation - 1678 Words

Capstone– The importance of Cartoon Composing– how Sound Impacts Animation Sounds are and always have been one of the fundamental aspects in animation because it enables every action that each character plays. Without sound, animation would not have the same effect as it does with sound. Having the appropriate sound effects per action is gives the audience a feeling of comfort and assures the enjoyment of the picture. Animation with sounds provides us with not just a sequence of moving illustrations, but so much more, in fact, much more to where the storyline being portrayed within the animation gives us a meaningful experience and expands our imaginations. It also makes it easy for the viewers to watch and listen to the story†¦show more content†¦In 1930 came the â€Å"Felix the Cat† cartoons that also incorporated sound but failed as a series, which was okay on Disney’s behalf because Mickey kept getting more and more popular. It wasn’t u ntil the release of â€Å"Steamboat Willie† when the creators of the Warner Brothers cartoons started to consider incorporating sound into their cartoons. In 1928, the animators at Warner Brothers Studios began to trade with Disney and they were so inspired by the success of Disney’s sound cartoon that they started working on the Looney Tunes cartoons that were released in September of 1930. They used plays and musicals as reference to the use of their music choices. Both Warner Brothers and Disney made an agreement to duplicate their cartoons to have one version to be created towards music that was already created and the other version that would already have been created but the music would have to be made using the animation as the reference to where the music would follow the action. This is the animation process that Disney’s studio went by to create sound-integrated animation: â€Å"Walt and Carl would time the pictures in Walt’s office. Timing the m consisted of working out what the music would be. A lot of times Walt would want more time or less time for the action than could fit in the musical phrase. So, there would be a pretty good argument going on there. But finally, Walt worked out a thing with Carl. He said â€Å"look, let’s work it out this way. We’llShow MoreRelatedWalt Disney Made A Massive Connection With Those Of All Ages1000 Words   |  4 Pagesmark on the world. He accomplished so much within his life. With the cartoons he made, awards he won, and the creation of the theme parks, Disney changed the minds of several to live younger and with a smile. The Disney name is constantly remembered as the cartoon Mickey Mouse. Walt Disney created and brought more than just one cartoon to life though. According to http://www.britannica.com/ his first cartoon was a two minute animation that was used for an advertisement in 1922, which considering theRead MoreWalt Disneys Influence On The Animation Industry1134 Words   |  5 PagesChan Kam Him Professor Teresa Antonia Dey F/TV 75G 14 June 2017 Walt Disney Walt Disney was one of the most important animators in the history of animation. His influence on the animation industry is huge and had created the most famous animation studio of all time. Unlike other studios at that time, Disney acknowledged the importance of having an emotional connection in between the characters and his audience. He paid lots of attention to his characters and was the first animator to have a departmentRead MoreAnimations Effect On Children : Annotated Bibliography877 Words   |  4 PagesAnimations’ effect on children: An annotated bibliography For years, the world grappled with racial and ethnic representation in media. Characters that come into our homes through TV screens- who we laugh with, cry with, get angry with- have more than just a temporary impact on our lives. They help us shape our own reality, â€Å"who we are, who we aspire to be, and how we view the world around us†(1). Race and ethnicity are not only physical attributes of people but also are ways of seeing and understandingRead MoreWalt Disney : A Famous Creator Of Disneyland1483 Words   |  6 Pageshad moved to a quiet town, Marceline, Missouri. Walt was five years old that time. Because Marceline was a place full of nature, Walt was absorbed in animals and enjoyed painting and drawing pictures (Crosby). He later stated that â€Å"more things of importance happened to me in Marceline than have happened since – or are likely to in the future† (â€Å"The Marceline†). His life in Marceline inspired him to step into a career as a cartoonist and a creator. In 1919, after Walt returned from the WWI, he movedRead MoreWalt Disney Biography Essay1414 Words   |  6 Pagesand was sent overseas to France, where he spent a year driving an ambulance and chauffeuring Red Cross officials. His ambulance was covered, not with stock camouflage, but with Disney cartoons. Once he returned from France, he wanted to pursue a career in commercial art, which soon lead to his experiments in animation. He began producing little animated films for local businesses, in Kansas City. By the time Walt had started to create The Alice Comedies, (which was about a real girl and her adventuresRead MoreEssay on Cartoons: A Double-Edged Sword?1615 Words   |  7 Pages Our children live in a world based on fantasy in a medium that most people have access to. This medium does not require complex skills to get information, which is why cartoons have become a double-edged sword. We know that cartoons are directed to children and therefore should have a positive influence on them, but this varies according to the programming and control of parents over their children. Most kids are pulled into the world of television long before they even enter school. In 2009,Read MoreHow Animation Has The Power To Shape. . We Live In A Time1762 Words   |  8 PagesHOW ANIMATION HAS THE POWER TO SHAPE We live in a time where children are spending most of their time in front of a television. Cartoons are a resource of transmission of cultural, educational and social values, to which we do not always seem to give the attention that we must. A research carried out in 1998 on the children s television universe in Euskadi (Spain), said that the average television consumption in children aged from 4 to 12 years reached 162 minutes per day. Children are immersedRead More Rhetorical Analysis of the Film, Waiting for Superman Essay1246 Words   |  5 Pageseducators that are meant to teach are the one’s pulling it down. That is the apparent message that Davis Guggenheim attempts to convey in his documentary â€Å"Waiting for Superman†. He uses many strategies to get his message across. Some of these include cartoons, children, and those reformers that are attempting to pull the system out of the ditch that it has found its way into. He makes his point very well, and uses facts and figures correctly. He does leave out some of the opinions of the opposing viewsRead MoreThe Jungle Book1078 Words   |  5 Pageswolves.   The young boy must leave from his wolf family in order to escape the man-eating tiger named Shere Khan.   With the Indian boys fellow companions Bagheera and Baloo the audience experiences a great and positive story, fun songs, amazing animations for the time, and characters that will alwa ys be closed to the heart. The Disney version of Rudyard Kipling’s novel takes the audience to experience a great story and makes it into a family friendly animated movie. The story of a young IndianRead MoreWalter Elias Disney, known by many as â€Å"the man behind the mouse†, was one of the most known people1500 Words   |  6 Pagesoverseas to France where he spent a year driving an ambulance and chauffeuring Red Cross officials (thebiographychannel.co.uk). You would expect an ambulance to be covered in camouflage during war, but Walt’s ambulance was covered in nothing but Disney cartoons. After spending the year in France, it was time to pursue the beginning of what would be his career. Walt wanted to pursue a career in commercial art and when he met Ub Iwerks in 1922, together they began their own small studio in Kansas

Graduation Speech After Retirement Essay - 1216 Words

after retirement. That came from a combination of my consulting, a lump sum payment when Sarah retired, and interest / capital appreciation of our investments. Since retirement, we have not been saving any of our retirement income and in fact are depleting our savings paying IRA taxes. We probably can still keep the goal level even while contributing $6,000 a year to our kids requirement IRA because the principle is large enough that the interest income continues to mitigate the expenditures. Jacobus College Fund account distributions and kids IRA gifts will likely hold future growth consistent with the plan. My dream would be that our children would continue this approach, giving each succeeding generation a better net worth that they can pass on. Educational Goals When I was young I had not any educational goals. My father had not graduated from high school and I don’t remember him (or my mother) ever mentioning me going to college. And, as mentioned previously he spent my $3,000 life’s savings which would have put me through the University of Arizona. I was ambivalent about going to college when I graduated from high school, but I signed up in large part to stay out of the military and Vietnam. I had an interest in aviation and in making things so I signed up for Aerospace engineering. At that point I was working 20-25 hours a week to be able to afford the next semester’s tuition, gas for the Hillman, and occasional nights out which didn’t help my studies.Show MoreRelatedSummary : Love Is Never Silent Essay650 Words   |  3 PagesPatrakis, who usually gives whatever her family needs for free. In the middle Margaret graduates from high school and this is where her classmates, their parents and staff find out that her parents are deaf. Mr. Patrakis gives Margaret radio as a graduation gift, she is so excited that she brings it home, plugs it in and her dad seems to be interested and Margaret and her dad start to dance until her mom unplugs it to cook signing that the radio doesn’t belong. Margaret gets a job as a secretary andRead MoreAdolescence Is A Special Stage Of Development1685 Words   |  7 Pagesadulthood, lifestyle changes and responsibilities in middle adulthood, issues related to retirement planning, behavior and lifestyle in late adulthood, how to provide help to elderly persons, depression and suicide among old people, and hospice care for terminally ill individuals. Adulthood begins between the ages of 18 40. At the age of 18 teenagers become independence, by leaving the protective of parents, graduation from college, engaging in full time employmen t and become mature enough to face theRead More7-11 Case Study Essay1010 Words   |  5 Pages David Jetter graduated from college six years ago with a finance undergraduate degree. Although he is satisfied with his current job, his goal is to become an investment banker. He feels that an MBA degree would allow him to achieve his goal. After examining schools, he has narrowed his choice to either Prentice University or Mount Alliance College. Although internships are encouraged by both schools, to get class credit for the internship, no salary can be paid. Other than internships, neitherRead MoreAmerican Association Of University Women1377 Words   |  6 PagesPresident Obama signed the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act in January 2009. 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The change in the professional ideal of nursing acted like a snowball up to nowadaysRead MoreEssay Graduation Speech1491 Words   |  6 PagesAm I being trained and conditioned to work this hard after I graduate? Is this normal? Well, my fellow Graduates, because of the hard work and the abnormal lifestyle it took to acquire this degree, I learned that there is no such thing as a normal life, theres just life, with a tremendous amount of work to be done after we graduate, and yes the shaping, molding, guidance, training, and conditioning was our boot camp for life after graduation. So make sure we take the time to bask in our accomplishmentRead MoreThe Republic Of Singapore.1412 Words   |  6 Pagesthen Malaysian Prime Minister decided expulsion of Singapore. Lee Kuan Yew, who was regarded as a political leader, turned to be the first Prime Minister of Singapore, had kept being strongly influential in Singapore after his retirement, and probably will be influential even after his death in 2015, declared its independence from Malaysia. In 9th August 1965, Singapore then finally became the Republic of Singapore, an independent city state in Southeast Asia. As an independent state, Singapore isRead MoreUndocumented Immigrants Should Not Be A Citizen Of The United States1574 Words   |  7 Pagesstart of the twentieth century, these areas have been dependent on foreign workers to do those jobs (The Economic Benefits 178). Similarly, another challenge American businesses face is the aging American workforce, particularly due to the rapid retirement of the Baby Boomer generation. To maintain a balanced and stable workforce, American businesses must find younger workers, especially in manual labor jobs (Echevarria). That is why a complete over-haul of our current immigration system is necessaryRead MoreJustice Ruth Bader Ginsburg2646 Words   |  11 Pagesstayed home and took care of Ruth while she grew up. Cecilia made sure that Ruth worked diligently in school and taught her the value of hard work. Cecilia was diagnosed with cancer while Ruth was in high school and the day before her daughter’s graduation she passed away (Salokar Volcansek, 1996). One of the greatest influences on Ruth’s life was her mother and the values she instilled in her from a young age. Two of the greatest lessons that Ruth learned from her mother was to be independent andRead MoreIs College Education Worth It?19 24 Words   |  8 Pagescombined student debt for the country of over 1.2 trillion dollars the debate continues today. People who argue that college is not worth it, point to the crippling debt that some college graduates have which can delay graduates from saving for retirement or buying a house. They also say that everybody enrolling in college can have some unintended consequences and that many jobs, especially trade jobs, do not require a degree. People who say that a college education is worth it contend that college

Losing It free essay sample

The digital clock on the night table glowed 12:17 a.m. My mothers room across the hall was dark and silent. The only sound to be heard was the rain patting against the roof, and the occasional car that whirled by on its way home. But downstairs inside the freezer, a pint of Haagen-Dazs vanilla ice cream called out my name. And that night, I simply refused to answer. Growing up, I was obese for as long as I can remember. At age three, my favorite foods were macaroni-and-cheese, Chicken McNuggets, and ketchup. Kiwi? What was that? Throughout my childhood, my entire diet consisted of those tasty, addicting, yet starchy foods a recipe for disaster. From the time I entered middle school, my weight continued to escalate. Never had I experienced such freedom of choice as in the school cafeteria. I hardly exhibited self restraint. In ninth grade, my doctor stunned me when she said: You need to lose weight. We will write a custom essay sample on Losing It or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page I sat in silence for several minutes, at a loss for words. I had been in denial. The reality was a shock. Trapped inside my prison cell of fat, I began to wonder whether I would ever get out. The bars enclosing me, the chains around my ankles, and the constant ridicule were starting to get to me. I realized I had no future waiting around for a miracle to occur. I needed to break out. I set myself on a grueling journey to lose 50 pounds, a journey that has instilled discipline, confidence, and self-worth. My first step in the weight-loss process was joining my schools cross country team. My teammates were state-ranked PSAA champions, but little old me was only a beginner. My coach sent me out on my first mile; unsurprisingly, I nearly collapsed. Running, for me, was a seemingly unconquerable chore. However, I wanted to prove myself wrong. There will be a positive outcome, I told myself. So, I persisted as much as I detested exercise, and miraculously, the pounds started to shed. I continued to indulge occasionally, but I soon discovered another diversion: my schoolwork. When discontented with my weight, I funneled nearly all of my energy into hitting the books. Every once in a while, I would get mad at the mirror, but then, I would turn to world history and try to exercise my talents in a whole new manner on the academic stage. Every essay submitted became more polished, each history paper a gem of perfection. Weight loss had given me the inspiration to persist without end and to remain a driven individual in ways that I never thought it would. It has empowered me. Not only has losing weight affected my school life, but is has also governed the way I reflect upon social issues. Educating myself about weight loss led me to explore and investigate numerous topics related to our global food systems. Ive learned about the dangers of genetically modified foods, factory farms, and intensive agriculture. I am proud that my weight has turned me into a socially-concerned citizen, and in some respects, experiencing obesity has given me a positive worldview. My weight loss could have sent me down a dark path toward under-eating, over-exercise, and social isolation. But instead it has given me the insight that things come slowly but surely with time, and that patience is a learning process. In all candor, weight loss is still a challenge for me. But the battle to get where I am today has only managed to connect me with others, to boost my self-esteem, and to spur me to be the best person I can be. And I no longer come last in my cross country races. Thats right I have finally made it todrumroll pleasetwenty-third! But its all okay, because I have witnessed in myself nothing but positive transformation since that somber day in ninth grade.

Strategic Plan Nike Incorporation

Company Overview Nike, Inc. is a multinational corporation that was established in 1964. Phil Knight and Bill Bowerman founded the firm that was initially known as Blue Ribbon Sports. However, it changed its name to Nike Incorporation in 1971. Its head office is located at Beaverton, Oregon. Since its inception, Nike, Inc. has successfully penetrated the apparel and accessories industry.Advertising We will write a custom report sample on Strategic Plan: Nike Incorporation specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The firm specializes in designing, developing, and manufacturing apparel, footwear, and accessory products. Independent contractors, most of whom are located outside the US, produce its products. Nike primarily designs it products for athletic purposes. However, a significant proportion of its products are worn for leisure and casual reasons (Nike Incorporation, 2013). Currently, Nike, Inc. is renowned as the largest manufacturer and supplier of athletic shoes and sports equipment in the world. The firm distributes its products through independent distributors, retail accounts, and company-owned retail stores. The firm has also adopted the concept of online marketing. Nike’s success over the past decades has arisen from new product development and commitment towards marketing. Between 1990 and 1999, Nike extended its market reach by venturing into the sports industry. The firm started designing customized sports apparel for specific teams such as the Brazilian National Team and the United States men and female national soccer teams. Moreover, the firm adopted the concept of product endorsement by contracting sports celebrities. In 1995, Nike contracted Eldrick ‘Tiger’ Woods to be its marketing ambassador (Nike Incorporation, 2013). By the end of 2013, Nike had a human resource base of over 48,000 employees in all its stores that are located in different parts of the world. The firm consid ers human capital one of the most valuable aspects in achieving operational efficiency. Subsequently, the firm has nurtured an effective employee relationship. Mission Nike, Inc. intends to provide athletes around the world with innovative and inspiring products.Advertising Looking for report on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Corporate Values Nike’s operations are based on a number of principles, which are commonly referred to as the 11 maxims as illustrated below. Competitiveness The firm ensures that all its operations are focused on sustaining its competitiveness in a market that is characterized by a high rate of change. It urges its employees to act like leaders while executing their responsibilities. Innovation The firm perceives innovation as the core component in achieving organizational competency. Profit maximization Nike, Inc. is a business. Subsequently, its operations are profit orient ed. Nike is a brand The firm is committed towards ensuring that its products achieve global market recognition. To achieve this goal, the firm is focusing on fostering brand recognition through effective brand management practices such as developing brand identity. Its ‘swoosh’ logo, which indicates speed, has gained remarkable market recognition around the world. The firm perceives its logo (‘swoosh’ symbol) as a mark of global leadership. Therefore, Nike only penetrates markets that it believes it can attain market leadership (Nike Incorporation, 2013). Simplify and go Nike specializes in designing and producing products that have short life cycles with regard to fashion and technology. Consequently, the firm appreciates the importance of effective decision making to attain market success.Advertising We will write a custom report sample on Strategic Plan: Nike Incorporation specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn Mo re Customer focus Nike appreciates the complexity that is associated with meeting customers’ needs. Subsequently, the firm ensures that its products are aligned with such needs, tastes, and preferences. The firm considers customers one of its stakeholders. ‘Be a sponge’ The firm encourages its employees to be flexible in terms of executing their duties. Its commitment towards flexibility arises from recognition of the importance of listening to new ideas in its new and continuous product development processes. Evolve immediately Nike Incorporation focuses on positioning itself as the market leader in the sports apparel, footwear, and accessories market. Thus, the firm perceives change as a fundamental source of innovation. The firm’s broad product portfolio evidences its commitment towards innovation. Corporate responsibility Nike considers itself a global citizen. Thus, it adheres to social responsible business operations. Moreover, Nike, Inc. encourage s other stakeholders to observe the element of diversity, sustainability, transparency, and honesty in their operations. Mastering the fundamentals Nike views its ability to refine its current organizational performance as key component in its future success. Thus, the firm undertakes constant evaluation of its performance to identify the fundamental elements. Organizational culture Nike understands the significance of fostering a strong organizational culture to achieve long-term success. For example, the firm continues to uphold late Bill Bowerman’s values of innovation, understanding, and respecting customers’ needs. Products Nike focuses on producing seven main categories of the Brand Jordan and Nike Brand products. These categories include:Advertising Looking for report on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Basketball Football Men’s Training Women’s Training Running Action Sports Nike Sportswear In addition to the above product categories, Nike designs different recreational and kids’ products. In an effort to develop a rich product portfolio, Nike, Inc. has diversified its product offering by designing goods for various sports such as lacrosse, wrestling, walking, tennis, outdoor activities, football, golf, baseball, and cricket (Nike Incorporation, 2013). In an effort to gain substantial market share, Nike, Inc. has appreciated the emergence of a trend whereby consumers are increasingly appreciating sports apparel and footwear as part of their casual and leisurewear. Currently, the firm’s running, basketball, Nike sportswear, soccer, and children’s products are the top-selling products. Nike projects this trend to be sustained in the future. SWOT Analysis Advantages Market recognition The firm has gained significant market recognition because of i ts effective brand management practices. For example, the adoption of the ‘swoosh’ as the firm’s trademark has made Nike one of the widely recognized companies in the world. Cost management Nike’s production processes are undertaken by independent factories, which are selected from the global market. The firm mainly outsources its production activities to low-cost companies that are mainly located in the emerging Asian economies such as China, Thailand, Taiwan, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, and Indonesia. Because of outsourcing, Nike has succeeded in minimizing the cost of operation (Nike Incorporation, 2013). Competitiveness Nike has succeeded in fostering competitiveness in the global market. One of the sources of its competitiveness includes effective marketing. The firm has adopted effective marketing strategies, which have enhanced the rate of product penetration in the global market. For example, it has adopted product endorsement by superstar athlet es as one of its marketing strategies. Consequently, Nike has been able to enter diverse markets. Product research and development The firm considers research and development a fundamental element of achieving market success. Thus, the firm invests a substantial amount of resources in its market research processes. This plan has played a remarkable role in identifying the prevailing market trends. Additionally, investment in research and development enables Nike to align its products with the prevailing market needs. The firm’s research and development activities are undertaken by a qualified research and development team, which comprises experts in different areas such as chemistry, industrial design, exercise physiology, biomechanics, and engineers amongst other experts. The firm’s research and development activities are also undertaken in collaboration with experienced advisory boards and research committees. The committees comprise podiatrists, coaches, trainers, e quipment managers, and orthopedists. The collaboration between experts enables the firm to successfully identify areas of improvement. Therefore, the firm’s commitment towards research and development has significantly minimized injury amongst athletes whilst improving their performance. Corporate social responsibility A survey conducted to assess adherence to social responsible business practices in 2010 ranks Nike, Inc. 3rd amongst the most responsible firms in the world. The firm’s success in CSR is evidenced by its adoption of concepts of reducing, recycling, and re-using its products. Subsequently, the firm has been able to minimize environmental pollution. Weaknesses Labor practices Nike has extensively been criticized for its unlawful and unfair labor practices. First, the firm is criticized for contracting companies from Mexico, China, Indonesia, and Vietnam to undertake its production processes. The criticism arises from the contracted companies’ violat ion of the best labor practices such as adherence to minimum wage and paying employees’ overtime. For example, in 2011, the firm was accused of abusing its employees and paying them unfair wages in Indonesia (Taibi, 2013). In addition to the above issues, Nike is also criticized for its failure to curb child labor. Some of the countries in which Nike is accused of exploiting child labor in its production processes include Bangladesh and Pakistan. Working environment The firm has also been criticized for subjecting employees to unhealthy working environment. In 2001, the British Broadcasting Corporation released a documentary showing poor working conditions in a Cambodian factory that had been outsourced by Nike, Inc. The documentary showed that most of the employees worked for over 16 hours per day for seven days. Such practices adversely affected the firm’s image and sales. Opportunities The ability of an organization to attain competitive advantage is influenced by t he extent to which it exploits opportunities that are available in the business environment. Consequently, it is essential for organizations to undertake broad market research to identify viable business opportunities. Pearce and Robinson (2014) assert that market research enables an organization to identify new ideas and market gaps that it can exploit. Nike faces numerous opportunities that it can exploit in order to improve its competitiveness. Some of the opportunities are illustrated below. Product development Nike can achieve long-term success by investing in new and continuous product development. Despite the fact that Nike specializes in designing sports footwear and apparel, most of its customers do not participate in sports. Therefore, the firm can invest in new product development to satisfy the market demands. Nike has established adequate capacity in developing new products because of its well-experienced research and development team. Nike should also consider diversif ying its product portfolio by venturing into new market segments. One of the categories that the firm should consider includes the high-value products such as jewelries and sunglasses. High-value products enable organizations to maximize their profitability. Internationalization Most economies around the world have experienced significant economic growth, despite the recent global financial crisis. The economic growth has emanated from implementation of effective economic stimulus packages. Consequently, most households have experienced an increment in their purchasing power. Nike should consider exploiting the emerging market opportunities. However, it should undertake a comprehensive market research to identify the most viable market to enter. Some of the markets that the firm should consider include the emerging economies such as countries in the Gulf Region. By venturing into new markets, there is a high probability of Nike increasing its sales revenue and hence its profitabilit y. Marketing The sports apparel, footwear, and accessories market is experiencing significant transformation, which is evidenced by increment in the intensity of competition. Some of the firm’s core competitors include Addidas-Reebok, Under Armor, New Balance Athletic, Fila, and Puma. These firms have successfully penetrated the global sportswear market. However, Nike continues to be the market leader. To sustain its market, Nike should invest in aggressive marketing to nurture adequate brand recognition, especially in its new markets. One of the aspects that the firm should consider includes sports sponsorship and product endorsement. The firm should consider adopting the concept of product sponsorship and endorsement. Nike should identify different sports celebrities, prominent personalities, and sports team that it can include in its sponsorship and product endorsement processes. This plan will enable the firm to create sufficient awareness amongst diverse customer groups. Technology Nike should consider enhancing its competitiveness by investing in the emerging technologies in its production process. Leveraging on technology will enhance the firm’s ability to develop high quality and safe products. Consequently, the firm will be able to appeal a large number of potential customers. Threats Firms face different issues that might threaten their long-term competitiveness and survival. Thus, it is imperative for business leaders to be cognizant of the possible threats in their operations. Some of the core threats to Nike’s operations are evaluated below. Competition The firm’s competitiveness may be affected by increment in the intensity of competition within the athletic, equipment, and footwear industry. Some of the old industry players such as Addidas-Reebok, Li Ning, V.F Corp, and Puma have sustained their competitiveness. Moreover, newer companies such as Under Armor have gained significant market share, which was previously co ntrolled by Nike. The firm is also competing with different vertical retailers, for example Uniqlo and Lululmon. Currently, firms in the apparel industry are increasingly diversifying their product portfolio through product line extension. Additionally, the industry is experiencing an increment in the number of new entrants in an effort to exploit the available market opportunities. Change in consumer tastes Satisfying consumers’ demand is a complex undertaking that organizations encounter in their pursuit of competitiveness. The complexity arises from the fact that consumer tastes and preferences are subject to change. Therefore, rapid change in consumer tastes and preference is one of the major risks that the firm faces in its operation. Economic changes Occurrence of economic changes such as the recent global financial crisis and the sovereign debt crisis in the Euro Zone may pose a threat to the firm’s ability to maximize its profitability. Melicher and Norton (201 3) assert that such economic changes adversely affect consumers’ purchasing power because of economic uncertainty. Additionally, during such economic periods, consumers reduce their consumption expenditure. Subsequently, the firm may experience a reduction in its market share. Business objectives Nike, Inc. focuses on maximizing its shareholders’ wealth. To achieve this goal, Nike intends to achieve a substantial rate of market growth. In 2014, Nike announced its intention to increase its sales revenue to over US$36 billion by 2017. This goal represents a 42% increment in its sales revenue from US$ 25.31 billion fiscal revenue in 2013. Nike’s management team projects its sales to reach $30 billion during its 2015 fiscal year (Lulu, 2013). Nike also intends to continue developing unique and high quality sports apparel, footwear, and equipment to sustain its market dominance. According to the firm, achieving market dominance will enable it attain an optimal market position. In addition to the above objectives, Nike intends to sustain its annual capital expenditure within a range of 3%-4% of its total annual revenues (Saintvilus, 2014). Nike has managed to sustain its financial performance over the past years. For example, the firm’s net income between 2011 and 2013 increased from $ 2,172 million to $ 2,464 million. The chart below illustrates the trend in the firm’s financial performance. Amount in million $ 2013 2012 2011 Sales revenues 25,313 23,331 20,117 Cost of sales 14,279 13,183 10915 Gross profit 11,034 10,148 9,202 Demand creation expense 2,745 2,607 2,344 Operating overheads 5,035 4,458 4,017 Selling and administration expense 7,780 7,065 6,361 Earnings before tax 3,272 3,025 2,862 Tax expense 808 756 690 Effective tax rate 24.70% 25% 24.10% Net income 2,464 2,269 2,172 Source: (Nike Incorporation, 2013) Key strategies To achieve the above business objectives, it is critical for the fir m to formulate effective strategies. Some of the strategies that the firm’s management team should take into account are illustrated herein. Geographical market expansion The firm should consider expanding into the international market to maximize its sales revenue. Leveraging on emerging technologies Nike, Inc. should consider exploiting the marketing capabilities that are presented by the emerging web-based technologies. This move will enhance the firm’s ability to increase its customer base. Product quality Consumers are increasingly demanding quality and unique products in their consumption process. According to Yee and Sidek (2008), clients are progressively basing their brand loyalty decisions on product quality. This trend has arisen from the intensity of competition within the sportswear industry, which has significantly increased consumers’ choice whilst reducing the cost of switching to competing products. Strategy implementation Market expansion Nike intends to increase its sales revenue to US$36 billion. However, this goal can only be achieved if the firm increases its customer base. Subsequently, it is vital for the firm to invest in an aggressive internationalization strategy. The firm should consider entering the emerging markets in China and other countries in Eastern and Central Europe. Moreover, Nike should consider expanding into North America and Japan. Currently, these markets are experiencing a high rate of economic growth, which has arisen from their commitment towards economic transformation. Venturing into these markets will increase Nike’s likelihood of maximizing its sales revenue because of their high population growth rate (Leonard, 2014). Previously, Nike experienced challenges in its quest to market its products in the Chinese market because of the strong currency headwinds and/or the existence of inventory build-up. However, the firm is committed towards succeeding in the Chinese market by developing products that are aligned with the customer tastes and preferences. Apart from venturing into new markets, Nike should consider increasing its market reach by opening new stores in its existing markets. This strategy will improve product accessibility and hence the firm’s ability to increase its customer base (Pearce Robinson, 2014). In its market expansion efforts, the firm should consider contracting renowned sports athletes to endorse its products. Effective product endorsement will aid in establishing product authenticity, hence developing a high level of customer loyalty (Lussier Kimball, 2009). Product differentiation In its quest to succeed in the international market, Nike should consider investing in continuous and new product development to enhance the level of its product differentiation. However, the firm’s success in differentiating its products will depend on how well it understands market dynamics. Therefore, the firm will be required to undertake exte nsive competitor and consumer market research. In its competitor market research, Nike should focus on understanding its core competitors’ products in order to identify the prevailing gaps with regard to product quality. Yee and Sidek (2008) define product quality as product features and characteristics that lead to satisfaction of the consumers’ implied or stated needs. Consumers may switch to competition products if they perceive that they are not achieving the desired level of utility by consuming a particular brand. The consumer market research will enable the firm to understand consumer tastes and preferences towards sports apparel, equipment, and footwear. In the course of its operation, Nike recognizes that its success may be affected by the changing consumer tastes, which cannot be forecasted with a 100% degree of certainty (Nike Incorporation, 2013). One of the issues that the firm should take into account in its product development includes enhancing its prod ucts’ functional attributes. For example, the firm should ensure that its products are odor-resistant, durable, waterproof, lightweight, breathable, and anti-microbial. These aspects will enhance the functionality of its sportswear products. Subsequently, the firm will be able to undertake effective product design. In order to succeed in developing new products, Nike should consider expanding its brand by establishing new product categories. Some of the products that the firm should consider include jewelries. Venturing into new market segments will boost the firm’s sales revenues. E-commerce Consumers are increasingly using various web-based technologies in their purchasing process. This trend has emanated from the high rate of technological developments such as internet penetration. Morrison (2006) asserts, â€Å"the rapid adoption of digital technologies and evolving shopping behaviors are transforming e-commerce into an essential marketing element† (p.65). T herefore, Nike must consider investing in e-commerce to attract the emerging digital consumers. Currently, the firm has implemented the ‘Direct-to-Consumer’ strategy in an effort to reach a large number of consumers. Nike should consider improving its e-commerce capability by investing in effective online technologies. One of the issues that the firm should consider entails designing an online platform or applications that will enable it interact with its customers. Therefore, the firm will be able to gain adequate market intelligence, which can be utilized in building the brand. Egol, Rajagopalan, and Sayer (2012) confirm, â€Å"online direct-to-consumer sites are valuable tools for building stronger, more loyal consumer relationships, creating category growth, and when retailer consolidation is a concern, sustaining sales in the face of declining reach† (p.14). Additionally, the platform should provide customers with an opportunity to purchase goods online. Inv esting in e-commerce technologies will enhance the firm’s ability to customize its operations, hence developing a strong brand loyalty. Measurement and control Nike should formulate a comprehensive measurement and control plan. The measurement and control plan should take into account a number of issues. First, the firm should continuously evaluate its annual sales revenue to identify the trend. The analysis of the sales revenue should be undertaken geographically to determine the contribution of each geographic market that the firm has ventured into in relation to its overall sales revenue. Conducting geographical assessment will provide the firm with sufficient insight on whether it is adequately exploiting the market potential. Subsequently, the firm will be able to identify the prevailing market gaps and make the necessary adjustments in its marketing processes. In addition to the above aspects, Nike should evaluate the size of its customer base and market share to determ ine the likelihood of achieving the set objectives. By increasing its customer base, the firm will be able to maximize its sales revenue. Gaining additional market share will enhance its level of market dominance. Conclusion Nike has managed to achieve an optimal market position in the global sports apparel and footwear industry. Its success has arisen from its adoption of effective strategic management practices, which are aimed at maximizing the shareholders’ wealth and fostering a high level of customer satisfaction. One of the strategic management practices that the firm has considered in its operation entails effective brand management. The firm is committed towards positioning itself as one of the widely recognized brands in the sports apparel, footwear, and equipment market in order to maximize the shareholders’ wealth. However, the likelihood of achieving this goal will depend on the firm’s commitment in implementing effective strategic management practi ces. Some of the strategies that it should consider include investing in market expansion, product differentiation, and e-commerce. In its market expansion process, Nike should exploit opportunities that are available in the emerging economies in Europe and Asia. Examples of such economies include India and China. The firm should ensure that its products are optimally positioned in the global market through effective product differentiation. One of the ways through which the firm can achieve this goal is by investing in effective product research and design. Additionally, it should invest in the emerging web-based technologies such as e-commerce to exploit the emerging consumer trends. By leveraging on technology, Nike will be able to enhance its competitive advantage by developing a strong relationship with its customers. Any organization that wishes to remain on top of competition should devise strategies that will drive it towards realizing this objective. One of the strategies i s coming up with a team of experts whose role is to steer the organization’s marketing plan. As such, Nike should set aside a management team to carry out this task. Nike’s selected team should continuously evaluate its performance in the local and international market. Evaluation of international market performance should be undertaken geographically to determine its regional performance. Moreover, geographical evaluation will enable it formulate strategies that are specific to the respective markets, hence improving their effectiveness. Based on the expositions made in the paper, it is clear that Nike has made significant strides since its inception. However, based on the evident competition from the emerging companies in addition to the changing customer demands and preferences, the firm has to formulate techniques that will sustain its performance in the market. Reference List Egol, M., Rajagopalan, A., Sayer, A. (2012). E-commerce and consumer goods; a  Strateg y for omnichannell success. London: Sage. Leonard, K. (2014). Nike Incorporation announces target for FY17; revenues of $36  Billion.  Web. Lulu, U. (2013). Nike reveals 4-year growth plan.  Web. Lussier, R., Kimball, D. (2009). Applied sport management skills. New York, NY: Human Kinetics. Melicher, R., Norton, E. (2013). Introduction to finance; markets, investments, and  Financial management. New York, NY: John Wiley Sons. Morrison, J. (2006). International business environment: global and local  marketplaces in a changing world: the international business environment.  London: Palgrave Macmillan. Nike Incorporation. (2013). Form 10-K.  Web. Pearce, J., Robinson, R. (2014). Strategic management. New York, NY: McGraw-Hill Publishers. Saintvilus, R. (2014). Nike’s long term goals are better than anything kicked in the  world cup. Web. Taibi, C. (2013). Nike may dodge criticism of labor practices by cutting employees  in harsh working conditions. Web. Ye e, W., Sidek, Y. (2008). Influence of brand loyalty on consumers sportswear.  International Journal of Economics and Management, 2(2), 221-236. This report on Strategic Plan: Nike Incorporation was written and submitted by user Eleanor Rutledge to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.