Analysis and critique Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Analysis and critique - Essay Example The side effects, resistance to insecticides in vectors and cost-effectiveness of DDT were discussed (2009). He concludes that though there is limited implementation of DDT alternatives, however, more research needs to be done, as IVM will diminish dependence on DDT (2009, p. 1661). Van den Berg states that, when compared with other insecticides, DDT was once a cost effective method of vector control, however, that does not hold true any longer; even as early as 1998, the cost of DDT and other insecticides became almost equal, with DDT costs ranging from US$1.50-3.00 and other insecticides costing less than US$2.20 (2009, p. 1657-1658). Moreover, recent studies show that the risk of human exposure is great in those living in sprayed houses (2009, p. 1658), however, there is a dearth of such studies, e.g. no peer-reviewed data is available from India which is the biggest user of DDT (2009, p. 1658). Van den Berg points out that though the WHO is reassessing the health risks of DDT, however, progress in this regard is slow (2009, p. 1658). DDT is known to be a persistent molecule and, as such, it takes a long while for it to degrade. It does not run-off either, as it binds itself with the organic matter present in soils and aquatic sediment (van den Berg, 2009, p . 1658). The DDT molecules have been shown to cause a lot of harm in the environment; therefore, there is a need for other alternatives to be explored. Another disadvantage of continuing to use DDT is the insecticide resistance that has been reported in certain species of the vectors. Van den Berg states that though the resistance was developed as a consequence of the excessive use of DDT in the agricultural sector, however, it is further exacerbated by the use of synthetic pyrethroids (2009, p. 1658). Van den Berg has also given a list of certain alternatives to

Strategic Management-Walgreens Internal Analysis Essay

Strategic Management-Walgreens Internal Analysis - Essay Example target of operating 7,000 stores by year 2010, Walgreen needs to manage its internal processes effectively and efficiently to maintain competitiveness and profitability. Assessing its operations to identify key business processes and areas of value addition allows companies to manage costs strategically. The concept of Value Chain Analysis presents a powerful management tool for identifying key areas of value addition and cost incurring with a business operation and by analysing Walgreens Value Chain, the report aims to establish areas of organisational strengths and weaknesses which would facilitate the strategic decision making process. An internal analysis of an organisation entails the assessment of its key business processes, the core competencies, organisational strengths and capabilities as well as weaknesses in alignment of business opportunities, which the organisation is perusing for its long terms success. Analysis tools such as Organisational Capability Analysis or OCP analysis, Value Chain analysis and SWOT analysis are few common tools available in conducting an internal analysis for a business. Value Chain analysis presents a strategic view of all company functions and activities, which are performed in carrying out its business and facilitates a comprehensive internal assessment in terms of not only the activity or function itself but also the manner in which they are interlinked in pursuing company objectives. â€Å"The Value Chain Analysis identifies separate activities, function and business processes that are performed in designing, producing, marketing, delivering and supporting product or a service† ( Porter 1985). The chain of interlinked activities, which comes together to finally meet a customer need in the form of a product or a service includes raw material sourcing, logistics, production, sales & marketing as well as other support services. AT each stage, the business objective is to create and add value and generate a component of the