Thursday, July 3, 2008

CHANGING ENVIRONMENT OF BUSINESS

Over the years the perception people have had of businesses has changed. It has gone from one of trust to one of deceit. This change has taken place due to the actions of large corporation’s fraudulent activities and also how business people are portrayed in television and the movies. The workplace is constantly changing. Leaders of businesses are learning that they can no longer run their business the same way they did before. New youth and ideas are moving forward and technology is advancing so fast that the older people need to learn to keep up or fall to the wayside. The world is also more globalized now. You can be working for an American company in London while working a business deal with Japanese business owners in Sydney. The concept of a "global village" is truer today than it has ever been before. The text discusses how businesses must keep aware of the ever changing economy and communities needs. The chapter also discusses the confidence that public has in businesses. This is another factor that businesses must overcome. A large part of business success is for them to listen to what the customers need and say. The chapter gives several examples where companies made changes to their policies, procedures or even menus to make the public have a more satisfied and positive outlook on the company.The chapter concludes with how communication is a key to a successful goal or vision being completed. The entire company (all employees) should and need to be informed of all policies and procedures so that they may represent the company in a positive manner.

Strategies to by Adopted by Businesses:In order for a business to steer clear of these problems. They have to make sure that they adopt certain strategies.
  1. Recognize the changing environment: today’s business environment is a dynamic one-continuously changing, reshaping itself to current trends. Businesses need to understand that and be able adapt.
  2. Adapt to the environment without compromising principles: companies should adopt similar strategies to what they would have adopted in their home countries. Companies are increasingly looking for cheaper labour, raw materials, etc, and they are willing to turn a blind on sub-standard working and living conditions in other countries. The main aim is to earn a satisfactory profit.
  3. Not assume that problems will magically disappear: like Arthur Andersen did-a business cannot turn a blind eye to what is happening because it is obligated to give its constituencies a clear picture of what is happening.
  4. Keep corporate communication connected to strategy: communication is the most important functions any enterprise has to undertake. It integrates all departments and levels of management. Its importance is almost always overlooked by managers. They need to realize that it has to stay connected to the company’s overall vision and strategy.

    A current issue that is concerning businesses today is global warming. Many businesses are adjusting their manufacturing procedures to improve our environment today and tomorrow. The following link is at Business Week article that addresses the issues and concerns that some companies are, http://www.businessweek.com/magazine/toc/05_50/B39630550carbon.htm

Personal Experience: along with my growth from a kid till now, I think there has been an evolution or growth in technology and change in the environment of business. From telephone to pagers to big n heavy mobile phone to small n slick blackberry. The environment of business and communication technology will keep advancing and change to better.

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