One Flew over the Cuckoos Nest Response to Literature Essay Example for Free

One Flew over the Cuckoos Nest Response to Literature Essay Society is a judgmental and rejecting place. It only allows uniform individuals to be in this society which discards anyone’s individuality and pride. In the novel, One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, by Ken Kesey, Nurse Ratched alienates the patients’ individualities which only allows them to never progress in their mental health. The society rejects the people who are not normal. In this case, the people are the ones with mental disorders. Kesey’s anti-establishment point of view against society portrays that the government misuses power to manipulate society which leads to the suppression of individuality through the literary devices analogy, metaphor, and symbolism. Ken Kesey conveys his theme by vividly explaining the â€Å"pecking party†. As one of the treatments, Nurse Ratched holds group therapy for the patients. During the group therapy session, McMurphy notices that the Nurse ignites all the conflict at first so he explains, â€Å"The flock gets sight of a spot of blood on some chicken and they all go to peckin’ at it† (Kesey 57). McMurphy is trying to explain the abusiveness of Nurse Ratched’s power. This analogy supports Kesey’s message of how society rejects and leads to the suppression of individuals. Kesey uses the chickens to represent the patients and the â€Å"first peck† would represent Nurse Ratched because she manipulates an individual which causes uneasiness to the patient which will never be the cure for one who is mental to get better. After McMurphy goes on about the pecking party, he says one more thing to Harding about the pecking party, â€Å"You want to know who pecks that first peck? † (58). McMurphy’s rhetorical question signifies his opinion even more. This allows not only Harding, but the rest of the patients to see how Nurse Ratched is just another person and how they should not let her take complete control over them. Kesey furthers his analogy after the pecking party image because it reveals and justifies who really does â€Å"peck that first peck†. This relates to the theme because Nurse Ratched represents the government while the patients represent society; concluding that the government continuously pecks at the individuals who feel that they are not a part of society. Overall, the pecking party is an analogy of how society suppresses one’s individuality because to be an individual one must â€Å"get better† like the patients attempt to do; but all they are doing are taking steps back due to Nurse Ratched. In One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, Kesey demonstrates his use of metaphors through machinery comparisons to portray the theme of suppression of an individual. When Bromden characterizes Nurse Ratched he says, â€Å"So she really lets herself go and her painted smile twists, stretches to an open snarl, and she blows up bigger and bigger, big as a tractor, so big I can smell the machinery inside the way you smell a motor pulling too big a load. † (5). Bromden sees Nurse Ratched as machinery and not as a human being. This supports the fact that the ward is like a factory, just waiting to make patients into â€Å"products†. Kesey uses metaphor to compare Nurse Ratched to machinery because this describes her persona perfectly. Like a machine, Nurse Ratched is very smooth and calm about things at first but like every machine there are flaws. When Nurse Ratched meets her flaws, that is when things begin to go haywire like a machine. It can either breakdown or malfunction but it is always repairable. When Bromden has the dream about Blastic, he thinks â€Å"†¦I was looking to see – just a shower of rust and ashes, and now and again a piece of wire or glass† (88). The significance of Bromden’s dream is that it represents how the ward is inhumane because â€Å"a shower of rust and ashes† fell out of Blastic’s body instead of human organs. Kesey exemplifies metaphor through Bromden’s dream by explaining how society’s standards of being â€Å"accepted† can transform one to be inhumane and to lose their individuality. Overall, these comparisons relate to the theme having the machines represent a form of government, standing in the way, or suppressing, the individual, or society. This can support the main theme that society abuses their power to manipulate and suppress the individuality of others. Fog is used by Kesey to demonstrate them and to symbolize the aloneness and individuality of a patient. Bromden describes the effects of fog when he thinks, â€Å"I don’t have to end up at that door if I stay still when the fog comes over me and just keep quiet† (132). This explains how much control Nurse Ratched had over the patients. It demonstrates how something like fog takes away their individuality be they â€Å"just keep quiet†. The fog symbolizes a safe zone and aloneness for the patients because Nurse Ratched had so much authority over the patients that it was like a crib holding them while she was out. Kesey’s theme is supported in this because society takes away individuality as well as fog does. One characteristic they both share is the way they manipulate and abuse their power. Bromden also thinks about fog when he said, â€Å"You had a choice: you could either strain and look at things that appeared in front of you in the fog, painful as it might be, or you could relax and lose yourself† (131). Bromden describes how the patients were almost forced to be in the fog because â€Å"you could relax and lose yourself† and that the time that is all the patients really want. The fog also symbolizes a scapegoat for the patients so they don’t have to face all the challenges ahead because â€Å"you had a choice†. A simple break from everything, especially Nurse Ratched. This furthers Kesey’s message of how the fog is another form of control from Nurse Ratched, in which she abuses her power by manipulating her patients so they cannot get better. Ken Kesey uses analogy, metaphor, and symbolism to demonstrate how society uses their power to manipulate others which leads to a suppressed individual. He uses examples from the ward to compare the real outside world with a mental asylum. This world and society focus too much on how to fit in and it has become more of a moral thing to fit in than to be one’s self. Kesey blames it on the establishment that people are suppressed of their individuality, but is that really true? It has become a custom rather than a rule and that needs to change; and it starts from being a leader and an individual rather than a follower. The real story of individuals is not within the establishment, but it is within a person. To express that is to depending on the person and that is the problem in our society, no one likes to be that person to step up and be the first to go. But if someone were to do it, our society would change instantly.

Issues Concerning Mexican-Americans :: Culture cultural mexico essays

Issues Concerning Mexican-Americans I have recently visited the web-site "Chicano Park" and viewed the video Chicano! I took a critical look at both and evaluated how well the two educated the general public to the issues of Mexican American history. As a point of reference, I used information from the Vargas book, along with class lectures and discussions, and compared it to information found on the video and the web-site. In the following essay I aim to show that the video and web-site do not serve as adequate tools to educating the general public. While they do touch upon many issues of Mexican- American history, they do not do so with the detail of Vargas. Also, they do not depict the hardships experienced by the Mexicans and the racism of the Anglos as well as the Vargas book. The essay will address the web-site and video separately. It will point out the issues that are addressed by each, along with those that are not. In the end, I hope to prove that the web-site and video should be used as supplementary materials to Vargas, lectures, and discussions as a means of enhancing education. In addition, I will be addressing the content of two essays written by my peers in the class who are also addressing the subject of Mexican American history. I will be commenting on these works throughout this essay when appropriate. The web site: Chicano Park addressed several issues dealing with Mexican American history. Through the presentation of the Logan Heights barrio, the web-site shows the influx of Mexicans into the United States due to revolution in Mexico. In the Logan Heights community, there was a steady population increase of over 500,000 people , most of whom were Mexican. Logan Heights became primarily a border community. It has suffered from pollution, poverty, high crime, and unemployment, and continues to do so today. This is further evidence of the poor socioeconomic conditions the Mexicans have faced since their arrival in the US. The jobs held by the residents of the community is further illustration of the status of a labor class held by the Mexicans. They worked as laborers in the fisheries, lumber, shipbuilding, and railroad industries of the area. Also, WWII activity attracted many laborers to the area, many of whom were Mexicans, along with other immigrants.

Fi561 You Decide

You Decide Page 1 FI561 – Mergers & Acquisitions – Week 3 Scenario Summary This is based on Merck’s Acquisition of Medco: Case 5. 1, pp. 124-125. Your Role/Assignment You are the Chairman and CEO of Merck. Make a recommendation to the Board of Directors of Merck & Co. regarding this acquisition based on the recommendations of the three associates and your own analysis. You are the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Merck & Company, and you will make the final â€Å"yes† or â€Å"no† recommendation to the Board of Directors of the company.You are listening to the advice of various department heads regarding this acquisition. Based on your evaluations and additional analysis of the recommendations of your three associates, make your recommendation to the Board of Directors. What will you recommend? Yes? No? Yes with some conditions? What are the reasons for your recommendation? Activity Write an 8-10 page paper (double-spaced) of written analysis , including tables of financial calculations. Key Players Key Players – Image Title/Role/Character Script – Text & Audio Chief Operating OfficerI’m concerned about synergy and integration issues between our highly research-oriented development of pharmaceuticals here at Merck, and a prescription medicine marketing company like Medco. I am concerned that the cultures and operations of the two companies aren’t going to mix well, and that this deal would result in an expensive failure. Executive Vice President, Sales & Marketing I’m all for this acquisition! It will open new marketing leverage opportunities in the Managed Care market. Medco’s marketing database will create market expansion opportunities.This is the perfect answer for the current competitive environment, where other pharmaceutical manufacturers are acquiring drug marketing companies. You Decide Page 2 Chief Financial Officer This is my concern; I want to make sure that Merck pay s a premium for Medco at $6. 6 billion dollars. The combination of the two companies will immediately result in increase in Earnings Per Share for the combination vs. Merck as a stand- alone company. Although, I’m still concerned about continuing the growth of the stock price of Merck after the target company is acquired.Grading Rubric: Category Points Description Understanding 55 Demonstrate a strong grasp of the problem at hand. Demonstrate understanding of how the course concepts apply to the problem. Analysis 55 Apply original thought to solving the business problem. Apply concepts from the course material correctly toward solving the business problem. Execution 25 Write your answer clearly and succinctly using strong organization and proper grammar. Use citations correctly. Total 135 A quality paper will meet or exceed all of the above requirements. Fi561 You Decide You Decide Page 1 FI561 – Mergers & Acquisitions – Week 3 Scenario Summary This is based on Merck’s Acquisition of Medco: Case 5. 1, pp. 124-125. Your Role/Assignment You are the Chairman and CEO of Merck. Make a recommendation to the Board of Directors of Merck & Co. regarding this acquisition based on the recommendations of the three associates and your own analysis. You are the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Merck & Company, and you will make the final â€Å"yes† or â€Å"no† recommendation to the Board of Directors of the company.You are listening to the advice of various department heads regarding this acquisition. Based on your evaluations and additional analysis of the recommendations of your three associates, make your recommendation to the Board of Directors. What will you recommend? Yes? No? Yes with some conditions? What are the reasons for your recommendation? Activity Write an 8-10 page paper (double-spaced) of written analysis , including tables of financial calculations. Key Players Key Players – Image Title/Role/Character Script – Text & Audio Chief Operating OfficerI’m concerned about synergy and integration issues between our highly research-oriented development of pharmaceuticals here at Merck, and a prescription medicine marketing company like Medco. I am concerned that the cultures and operations of the two companies aren’t going to mix well, and that this deal would result in an expensive failure. Executive Vice President, Sales & Marketing I’m all for this acquisition! It will open new marketing leverage opportunities in the Managed Care market. Medco’s marketing database will create market expansion opportunities.This is the perfect answer for the current competitive environment, where other pharmaceutical manufacturers are acquiring drug marketing companies. You Decide Page 2 Chief Financial Officer This is my concern; I want to make sure that Merck pay s a premium for Medco at $6. 6 billion dollars. The combination of the two companies will immediately result in increase in Earnings Per Share for the combination vs. Merck as a stand- alone company. Although, I’m still concerned about continuing the growth of the stock price of Merck after the target company is acquired.Grading Rubric: Category Points Description Understanding 55 Demonstrate a strong grasp of the problem at hand. Demonstrate understanding of how the course concepts apply to the problem. Analysis 55 Apply original thought to solving the business problem. Apply concepts from the course material correctly toward solving the business problem. Execution 25 Write your answer clearly and succinctly using strong organization and proper grammar. Use citations correctly. Total 135 A quality paper will meet or exceed all of the above requirements.

Success And Change At Prudential Plc - Free Essay Example

Sample details Pages: 10 Words: 2956 Downloads: 10 Date added: 2017/06/26 Category Finance Essay Type Analytical essay Did you like this example? Prudential Plc is a United Kingdom (UK) based international retail financial services group focusing on the pre and post retirement market providing products such as insurance, unit trusts and bonds, annuities, pension plans, mutual funds, investment advisory services (Prudential Plc website,2010). It was founded on 30 May 1848 in London (Prudential Plc History Timeline, 2008). The company has significant operations in the United States of America (USA), UK and Asia with approximately 21 million customers, policy holders and unit holders, employing over 27 thousand people managing funds to the extent of ÂÂ £249 billion across the globe (Prudential Plc website, 2010). Don’t waste time! Our writers will create an original "Success And Change At Prudential Plc" essay for you Create order Prudential is a public limited company listed on the London Stock Exchange as well as the FTSE 100 index. Four main business units comprise the Prudential group: Prudential Corporation Asia, Jackson National Life Insurance Company in the USA, Prudential UK and Europe and MG Investments (Prudential Plc website,2010). These units are supported by central strategies such as those for cash and capital management, leadership development, succession planning and reputation management. Until 2006 the group operated through three segments: banking; long term business; and broker-dealer and fund management. In 2007 it divested its banking segment. In 2008, the company generated approximately $35 million, an increase of 3.4 percent as compared to the previous year but reported an overall net loss of approximately $718 million (Datamonitor, 2009).However, the group has continued to reinforce the fact they have retained a robust and resilient capital position in the industry despite the economic ally challenging environment (Prudential Plc website, 2010). The PESTEL analysis below looks at the macro-environment in which Prudential is operating and tries to identify forces having the greatest impact on the company and its performance. PESTEL Analysis Political With effect from 2012, European Commisions Solvency II project is expected to change capital requirements for all sectors of the insurance industry in the European Union. It will require insurance companies to set aside more or less capital depending on the risks they face (Financial Services Authority, 2010). Economic The Banking crisis and economic downturn in 2008/9 have put the financial activities and balance sheets of insurance companies under close scrutiny. It has also resulted in concerns amongst investors and led to loss of confidence in insurers. This is being manifested in the form of sudden falls in share prices of insurance companies, including Prudential (The Guardian, 2008). A deceleration for 2008-2013 has been forecasted in the performance of the global life insurance market. This will have a direct effect on the overall performance of the company (Datamonitor, November 2009). The global retail savings and investments market has also seen a decline in 2008 and hardly any improvement in 2009 as a result of the economic difficulties the industry is facing (Datamonitor, December 2009). As a result of the current market volatility, interest rates have fallen to their lowest level for over 3 hundred years. Nevertheless, Prudential has set its annual bonus rates at 3 percent for most with-profit bonds and personal pension policies and 2 percent for annuity customers, thereby suggesting its strong capital position to help it tide through the difficult economic times ahead (Prudential Plc News Release, 2009). Social Ageing population in the two most developing nations, USA and the UK is leading to a higher demand for pension and retirement products (Datamonitor, 2008). Since Prudentials products and marketing range are mainly targeted at those aged over 45, this change in demographics is very crucial to the companys overall growth (Datamonitor, 2005). It is therefore essential for Prudential to support the ageing population by providing products that meet the customers changing needs. There is a distinct loss of confidence amongst consumers to opt for financial services as a result of mis-selling of some products in the UK, complexity in the financial services environment and poor performance of equity markets (Prudential Plc website, 2010). Research reveals that there is an estimated savings gap of ÂÂ £27 billion per year in the UK. Furthermore, the government has estimated that approximately 10 million people in the UK are not saving enough and 3 million people are not saving at a ll despite having the ability to do so (Wyman, O. Co., 2001). Technological The importance of digital/internet marketing in todays competitive environment can hardly be over-emphasised. The Internet accounts for 8 percent of global advertising spend and is growing rapidly (The Economist, 2009). Recent studies show that the financial services industry is lagging behind in digital marketing as compared to other industries (Marketing Charts, 2008). Given the challenges now faced within financial services, it is crucial for companies to rethink and adjust the way they acquire new customers and retain existing ones. Increased use of digital marketing can help financial institutions to develop better relationships with customers (Marketing Charts, 2008). Environmental International Agreements such as the Rio Earth Summit in 1992, Kyoto Protocol in 1997, Johannesburg Summit in 2002, have led to nations taking action towards ensuring sustainable development across the globe. Keeping in line with these policies, Prudential are committed towards reducing their environmental impact including reduction in the carbon footprint of the group, its suppliers business operations and creating bottom line savings through the implementation of cost effective energy efficiency measures (Prudential Plc Corporate Responsibility Report, 2008). Prudential is one of 38 companies from the financial services sector to endorse the ClimateWise principles, launched in 2007. The principles have been developed by leading global insurers, reinsurers, brokers and asset managers to promote action on climate change. They will enable companies and organisations throughout the world to build climate change into their business operations (Prudential Plc Corporate Responsibilit y Report, 2008). Legal In the UK, from April 2010, earnings over ÂÂ £150 thousand will be subject to a new tax rate of 50 percent and the corresponding tax rate for dividends will be 42.5 percent (HM Treasury, 2009).This will have a negative impact on companys UK market as it will encourage higher earners who could have invested in the companys financial products and services to leave the country (Prudential International, 2009). In the UK, also from April 2010, anyone with an income over ÂÂ £100 thousand (after certain adjustments for pension contributions, Gift Aid etc) will lose personal allowance at the rate of ÂÂ £1 allowance lost for every ÂÂ £2 excess income (HM Treasury , 2009). This will have a negative impact on the companys UK market as buyers might be encouraged to invest in off-shore bonds and policies instead (Prudential International, 2009). Porters Five Forces Analysis of the Financial Services Industry Threat of Substitute Products and Services There are few close substitutes to financial services and products and the threat is determined as weak. Investment in gold, jewellery, antiques and other collectibles might be considered as substitutes for investment in mutual funds, equities and other forms of savings. Investment in property is also seen as alternate to investment in pension schemes to provide income and capital for old-age, consequently leading to a rapid growth in the buy-to-let market (Ennew et al, 2007). Level of Competition There is considerable competition within the financial services industry despite having few close substitutes. Most companies in this industry operate on a large scale with wide geographical coverage and strong buying power, thereby fostering strong rivalry between the players (Datamonitor, 2007). Competition has been fuelled by the liberalisation of financial markets and reduced barriers between different institutional types. Bancassurance and diversification of specialised insurance companies into banking are typical examples of this. Companies in the industry try to maintain their competitive edge by diversifying and offering a wide range of financial services and products to its target audience (Ennew and Waite, 2007). For example, Prudential ventured into the online banking industry through its online bank Egg through which it offered a range of traditional banking products at very competitive terms and conditions. However, this venture was sold to Citibank in 2007 (Prudential Plc website, 2010). Threat of New Entrants The threat of new entrants is low. This can be attributed to high entry barriers caused by strong brand identity for Prudential, its product differentiation, customer loyalty and moreover, high switching costs. Moreover to be able to enter the market and be successful, new entrants would need highly specialised knowledge and expertise along with huge financial resources to compete with an established brands in the industry (Dess, Lumpkin, Eisner , 2008 ). There are some government regulations in place by bodies such as the Financial Services Authority (FSA) in the UK which limit the entry of other financial firms into the market (Datamonitor, November 2009). Moreover, the likelihood of new entrants in the industry has been reduced with the current global economic situation causing reduction in consumers confidence in the industry, increased merger and acquisitions amongst key players and government bail-outs for large institutions (Datamonitor, December 2009). Bargaining Power of Buyers Is moderate for individual consumers as there are many in number and the impact of losing one customer is low. However, buying power is higher for corporate clients as they usually pay huge premiums and loosing high-margin clients will have a negative impact on the companys revenues. There are plenty of alternatives in the industry but the switching cost is relatively high for consumers as changing players will involve surrendering or ending a policy before it matures which will have cost and tax implications for them. Existence of price comparison websites and financial services consultants boost buyer power as they empower buyers to shop-around for the best deal available due to the importance of the product offered. With the economic downturn, buyers disposable incomes have also been reduced. This has an indirect impact on their buyer behaviour as they may choose not to invest in financial services as they might not come across as necessities (Datamonitor, November 2009). Bargaining Power of Suppliers Overall bargaining power of suppliers is strong. This is because companies operating in this market require a reliable and secure ICT infrastructure to help conduct vital back-office and client-facing functions such as online equity trading and online banking. Studies conducted by Datamonitor (2009) indicate that complex hardware and software requirements by major players in the industry lead to few suppliers which can offer suitable solutions to them, and these tend to be large organisations such as IBM or Microsoft. This consequently strengthens the bargaining position of suppliers such as IT consultants, hardware and software suppliers and internet service providers. Moreover, large firms tend to be committed to one supplier, thereby imposing high switching costs on themselves. Additionally, large firms with extensive branches face high staffing costs because of the need for skilled employees (Datamonitor, December 2009). SWOT Analysis Strengths Strong Market Position in Asia, Europe and the U.S. the three most attractive savings markets in the world provide a competitive edge to the company. This helps the company to retain existing and attract new customers (Datamonitor, November 2009). The group has always endeavoured to continuously improve its brand value by contextualising and localising its marketing strategies. With the big demographic shift, the groups focus on brand value is expected to help capturing a huge share in the global retirement and asset management markets (Prudential Plc website, 2010) The company has a strong financial position thereby standing it in good stead in the current economic downturn and tight capital markets across the globe (Datamonitor, November 2009 ). Weaknesses High operating costs pose a risk of reducing profit margins for the company which would directly affect its competitiveness as compared to its rivals (Ebsco Host , 2009). Overall group performance is being affected by its exposure to the sub-prime mortgage sector through its subsidiary Jackson National Life in USA due to predicted high losses in the coming financial year (Ebsco Host, 2009). Opportunities Expansion in the Asian market could help to increase the groups revenues and overall profits. This is because the group has high brand recognition and a strong customer base of 7 million added to booming economic activity leading to higher personal wealth , greater disposable incomes and a growing demand for protection and savings products (Ebsco Host, 2008). With the aging of the baby- boomer generation there is huge increase in demand for pension and retirement products. Studies reveal that the market for retirement products is already the largest driver of growth in financial services (Ebsco Host, 2009). This change could benefit the life and pension business of the Prudential. The anticipated growth (9.9 percent compounded annual growth rate for 2006-2012) of the global asset management industry will help to strengthen the companys market position (Ebsco Host, 2009). Cost savings would increase the companys profitability (Ebsco Host, 2009). Threats Existence of namesakes worldwide, the closest one being Prudential Financial Inc, confuses consumers and can result in loss of business. This is aggravated by the increasing popularity of the internet wherein it has become difficult to differentiate between the company and its namesakes (Ebsco Host, 2008). Studies reveal an increasing number of insurance frauds in the industry. With Prudentials large scale of operation, this could lead to increase in claim losses and operation margins .This could force the group to pass insurance fraud costs to policy holders or opt for lower reinsurance cover, thereby causing an adverse affect to profitability (Ebsco Host, 2008). Value Chain Analysis Value-chain analysis is a useful tool to determine how an organisation creates its competitive edge over its rival firms (Dess et al, 2008). Primary Value Chain Activities: Inbound Logistics Prudentials inbound logistics policy is to work in partnership with suppliers who operate with policies and procedures consistent with the standards set out in the Group Code of Business Conduct (the Code), and to help them reduce their impact on the environment. This enables the group to maximise their beneficial social impact and minimise environmental impact. In its dealings with suppliers , the company endeavours to maintain the highest possible standards of integrity in business relationships. All subsidiaries are encouraged to use only those suppliers who operate with values and standards equivalent to the Group. The company has a strict policy to agree terms of payment when orders for goods and services are placed and pay in accordance with those terms (Prudential Plc Annual Report, 2008). Operations As Dess et al (2008) postulate, creation of environmentally friendly manufacturing processes is also one way of achieving competitive advantage, Prudential Plc are no stranger to this. The group actively endeavours to reduce its environmental footprints directly and indirectly. Examples include activities such as introduction of Energy performance certificates , achieving ISO 14001 certification, publishing sustainable development framework to encourage sustainable practices across the industry (Prudential Plc Corporate Responsibility Report, 2008). Outbound Logistics The company uses Single Customer View architecture to enable it to store in one place, information on different products and account data relating to any customer. This provides one point of contact for customers ensuring faster responses to queries and quicker problem resolution. The architecture has helped the company to consolidate its call centres as it helps to provide staff with an overview of all customers and their value to the company resulting in cost savings (Beckett, 2005). Marketing and Sales The Prudential built its reputation by providing financial advice and products to customers through an army of door-to-door salesmen. However, since 2002 the man from the Pru image has been replaced by automated channels and intermediaries because the direct selling method was not suitable for the company anymore. The new image has Retirement has more potential with Prudential as its tagline. The company now uses print, online, direct response, radio and television advertising as well as sponsorship of client interest programmes (Marketing Week, 2007; Phang, L, 2008). Service The group continues to maintain high standards of customer service ensuring that they receive fair, transparent financial products through a variety of trusted channels. Prudential endeavours to meet the rapidly changing needs of its target audience. The company has tracking systems in place to regularly monitor customer satisfaction. Examples of good customer service include achieving the 2008 award for highest customer satisfaction in the financial services industry in North America; surveys reveal that 88 percent of Prudential UK customers feel they are treated fairly; conducting agency training and leadership development to promote a deeper understanding of customers financial goals (Prudential Plc Corporate Responsibility Report, 2008). Support Value Chain Activities: Procurement Prudential encourages all its subsidiaries to develop collaborative win-win relationships with its suppliers and contractors to ensure the quality and profitability of its products and services (Prudential Plc Corporate Responsibility Report, 2008). Technology Development The importance of technology can hardly be undermined for the group. Prudential has always been at the forefront to develop and install automated systems to aid in its administrative functions. The company has created its own customer information system, Single View to enable it to manage the quality of its data. This new system also helps the company to cater to online marketing and customer management (Beckett, 2005). Human Resource Management (HRM) The companys HR strategy focuses on five key elements: getting the right people into the business; building and rewarding performance; growing a strong talent pipeline; developing credible successors and; developing an organisation that works. The group has also launched a group-wide Momentum Programme to attract a wide diversity of applicants (Prudential Plc Corporate Responsibility Report, 2008). General Administration Prudential has an effective planning system in place to help it to attain overall goals. This is backed by the ability of its top management to anticipate and respond to key environmental trends and events such as the demographic shift in global population. Through its sustainable development initiatives, the company has maintained excellent relationships with its diverse stakeholder groups. There is an effective IT division which helps to integrate the companys value creating activities (Prudential Plc Corporate Responsibility Report, 2008). Conclusion Prudential Plcs several strengths and opportunities are helping the company not only to survive but also grow in this global economic downturn following the banking industry crisis. The retail financial services industry is undergoing a fundamental transformation as one of the biggest demographic waves in history transitions out of the workforce and into active retirement. Over the coming years, this global retirement opportunity will be a significant driver of further growth for Prudential. However, the group need to be wary of its high operating costs in order to maximise the profitability of its products and services.