Research Paper

GROUP ASSIGNMENTS

All research papers are to present a thorough introduction and comprehensive analysis of the topic/issue, use of specific examples or cases, statistical information (numbers, charts, graphics), utilization of information from the key articles and books on the issue, a fair and balanced evaluation of the topic, original thinking on your part, and business or business­ government policy and decision recommendations. In-text citations, footnotes (where necessary), and a complete listing of references are required. Web-based citations should be used minimally. Do seek the guidance of FlU business librarian Sarah Hammill ([email protected]) or phone 305 348 3009.

Suggested organization for the project paper:

A. Overview of the topic

B. Critical issues

C. Presentation of the core information that addresses the topic

D. Analysis

E. Conclusions and recommendations

F. Charts and tables (or you can incorporate these throughout the paper)

G. References

1. E-business Marketing Strategies in Global Business. Present the current status of e­ business in Europe, Asia, and Latin America-issues, problems, opportunities, and a statistical picture each region. Identify the current and potential market, strategies that work as well as those that have failed, and present 3-4 "best practices" or success stories that new entrants may wish to consider as they embark upon e-business in each of the three regions.

2. Managing Innovation in the Multinational Firm. Innovation, in all its dimensions, is a critical determinant of business success in the 21st century. It is more than technology and can encompass management, design, customer service, and other features of a company's operations. Present and analyze one or more aspects of innovation in the international firm, evaluate it critically, discuss its impact on internal firm operations, customers, and shareholders. Emphasize the challenges of managing innovation in the firm and provide a blueprint for successfully implementing and managing innovation in companies.

3. Industrial Promotion and Foreign Direct Investment in Emerging Markets. The opening of emerging markets and global trade and investment have increased the competition among developing nations to attract foreign direct investment in export manufacturing "clusters" (e.g., Guadalajara in electronics, Bangalore in software, Istanbul in textiles). Identify and analyze one country's national and provincial efforts (principal policies, laws, regulations) to attract, retain, and expand foreign direct investment. Review the literature on "clusters" and value chains (see website of Institute of Development Studies, University of Sussex) and focus on one or two clusters in that country, highlighting one or two industries, and assess the effectiveness of industrial promotion policies, citing corporate responses to these incentives.

4. Strategic Alliances: Why They Work, Why They Fail. Increasing competition is causing even rivals to work together to survive and thrive in the global economy. Strategic alliances are one way. In many instances, they work well; in others, they do not achieve their expected results. Where, when, and why do they work-give examples; where when, and why do they fail-give examples. Suggest guidelines and actions firms should follow to ensure a successful strategic alliance.

5. Global Competition in the Smartphone Market. Whether it is the HTC, iPhone, Samsung Galaxy, LG, Nokia, and Google, in smartphones are Apple iOS versus Adroid in operating systems, global competition is intensifying. Choose three phones or two operating systems and analyze the strategies, execution and performance of these competitors within the global marketplace--the entire world or just one region--and offer an assessment and recommendation as to which company or companies will be the big winner in this contest.

6. Globalization of the Fast Food Industry. From KFC in the USA, Pollo Campero (Guatemala), and Bob’s (Brazil), the fast food industry continues to globalize. Provide an overview of the international fast food industry, including size, presence, and product mix and cite and analyze the strengths, opportunities and shortcomings of the industry and winning strategies of 4 leading fast food companies.

7. Global Outlook for the Luxury Goods Industry. High growth markets in Russia, China and the Gulf States are fueling the expansion of luxury goods sales along with the trend of global economic recovery from the 2008-2009 recession. Jewelry, yachts, cars, planes, clothing, accessories, and footwear are all experiencing growth. Provide a macro overview of the entire luxury goods industry, including size, scope, growth rate, and product category. Select three product categories and provide an in-depth analysis of how the 4 P's ---product, price, promotion and place--are addressed by world-class luxury goods producers. Compare and contrast and provide a forecast for where the three product categories are heading.

8. The International Arms Industry--Status and Outlook. Over $1.5 trillion are spent on military expenditures worldwide (2.7% of world GDP). The U.S., Russia, Germany, France and China are the largest arms exporters. With continuing tensions and conflicts in many regions of the world, along with the alleged need of nations to expand and upgrade their military capabilities, the arms industry will continue to flourish. Document the size and scope of the arms industry and focus on three segments (e.g.,military aircraft, light arms, anti-terrorism systems and equipment) and investigate and analyze the export strategies, promotional schemes and financing options that arms exporters use to achieve success in foreign markets.

9. The Global Market for Alternative Energy. Irrespective of the price of oil in the global market, the search continues for cost-effective and clean energy—sourced from sugarcane, corn, switchgrass, wind and other natural sources. This is especially true among nations and industries that are very energy-intensive. Provide a thorough research of the evolution of the alternative energy industry during the last decade. What are the positives and negatives of adopting alternative energy among companies? Which have the greatest potential? Please cite and explain examples of best cases adopted by firms and nations. Provide an outlook for alternative energy globally, recognizing that fossil fuels are becoming both cleaner and more affordable.

10. The Problem of International Money Laundering. In recent years, increasing attention has focused on international money laundering--criminal groups such as the Russian mafia, terrorist networks, and rogue states such as Iran have ingeniously found way to launder money for their illicit purposes. Provide an overview of international money laundering--its sources, operations, and the strategies and operations that governments employ to monitor it, root it out, and punish perpetrators. Highlight the winning strategies and actions that are used to achieve success in attacking the global money laundering problem.

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