formulate, and solve engineering problems):
Problem 1. A steam boiler is required as part of the design of a new plant. The types of fuel that can be used to ignite the boiler are natural gas, fuel oil, and coal. The cost of installation including all required controls is $40,000 for natural gas, $50,000 for fuel oil, and $120,000 for coal. In addition, the annual cost of fuel oil is $8,000 less than the annual cost of natural gas and $12,000 more than the annual cost of coal. If the boiler is to be utilized for 20 years and interest rate is 8%, determine the best alternative.
• The following is used for the assessment of SO f (An understanding of professional and ethical responsibility):
Choose the best answer (True or False) for the following statements:
• Engineers may hold paramount the safety, health and welfare of the public and may strive to comply with the principles of sustainable development in the performance of their professional duties.
True False
• Engineers shall perform services only in areas of their competence.
True False
• If possible, engineers shall issue public statements only in an objective and truthful manner.
True False
• Engineers shall act in professional matters for each employer or client as faithful agents or trustees, and shall avoid conflicts of interest.
True False
• Engineers shall build their professional reputation on the merit of their services and shall not compete unfairly with others.
True False
• Engineers do not have to act in such a manner as to uphold and enhance the honor, integrity, and dignity of the engineering profession, but shall act with zero-tolerance for bribery, fraud, and corruption.
True False
• Engineers shall continue their professional development throughout their careers, but do not have to provide opportunities for the professional development of those engineers under their supervision.
True False
• Without any disclosure to any interested party, engineers may accept compensation from more than one party for services on the same project, or for services pertaining to the same project.
True False
• Engineers, when serving as expert witnesses, shall express an engineering opinion only when it is founded upon adequate knowledge of the facts, upon a background of technical competence, and upon honest conviction.
True False
• Engineers may affix their signature or seals to any engineering plan or document dealing with subject matter in which they lack competence by virtue of education or experience or to any such plan or document not reviewed or prepared under their supervisory control.
True False
• The following is used for the assessment of SO g (An ability to communicate effectively) and PO j (A knowledge of contemporary issues):
Based on the lectures of the guest lecturers and DVD’s watched during the semester, write a paragraph (200 words) about a contemporary issue that is most important to you.
• The following is used for the assessment of SO g (An ability to communicate effectively) and PO i (A recognition of the need for, and an ability to engage in life-long learning:
Using internet, do a research on the current status of the local, national, or global economy in terms of the trends and opportunities in technology and industrial advancements (300 words).
• The following is used for the assessment of SO k (An ability to use techniques, skills, and modern engineering tools necessary for engineering practice):
Using Excel software or any other software package, solve problem 1. Include the required software command statements as part of your solution.
Please choose 3 from 5 classmates’ posts and comment on their posts. (only 100-150 words for each comment)
Classmate’s Post 1
The country that is very is interesting to put a franchise in the United Kingdom. The I learn that in the United Kingdom that franchising is less regulated that that it is in the United States but there other laws that the franchisor must follow to operate in the United Kingdom which are Competition, Trading Schemes, Trade Mark, Contract ,Tax ,and Agency. For example the Contract law explains the items that supposed to go into the contract like provisions if something happens to the franchisee, obligations for the franchisor and the franchisee, the sale of the business by the franchisee, to grant license and restrictions. (The Main Legal Issues in Franchising, n.d.).The Trading Schemes Act 1996 is of the restriction that surprise me because it outlaws pyramid schemes and franchises fall into the same category where means it cannot be a multi-level organization. The franchisor must have in the franchise agreement that the franchisee has to register for Value added tax (VAT). (Jonathan Vowles Chartered Accountant, n.d).I would expand a franchise into the United Kingdom because it is less regulated which makes it easy for a company to business there. (Bond & Wormald, 2014).
Classmate’s Post 2
Although Romania is located in the eastern bloc of Europe and surrounded by successful economies, it is very much an emerging market. In order to energize the private market, Romania has passed certain legislation to encourage the private investment in overseas franchises. One aspect that I found interesting is that there was legislation passed that outlined the basic principles of a franchise agreement (IMO Franchising, 2014). I think this goes a long way in helping the franchise markets because it lays a base for even play and accountability which decreases the ability of financially powerful firms from taking advantage of potential franchise investors. This has also allowed for international firms to enter the country without fear of a once corrupt government intervening and levying unfair fees and taxes. The focus on private investment in franchises seems to be working, Romania had 30 franchises in 2002 and now has over 170 franchises (2014).
Classmate’s Post 3
A country that is of great interest to me is Australia, so this was the ideal choice when it came to researching what franchising meant in this country. It was very interesting to conduct research on the franchising law because many people would assume that because of the similarities between the US and Australia that all the laws and regulations should be the same however there are very big differences in the restrictions. Australia offers a franchising Code of Conduct for all franchisors and franchisees, this outlines all aspects of how franchise business is conducted within the Australian borders and what the government expects from the relationship. I would expand in this country because though the government seems more active in the relationship it has its laws in place to benefit both members of the relationship.
Classmate’s Post 4
In my research, I decided to choose Switzerland as a country to look into in the laws that apply to franchises. I found that there are two primary forms of business in Switzerland. There is the business limited by shares (AG) and a limited liability company (GmbH). The governing regulations are called the Swiss Code of Obligations. These regulations state: “The minimum share capital of an AG amounts to 100,000 Swiss francs divided into shares with a nominal value of at least 0.01 Swiss francs [and] For the establishment of a GmbH a minimum capital of 20,000 Swiss francs is required, which must be fully paid in either in cash, by a contribution in kind or by a set-off.” (Ammann, Rapin, 2012) I found it surprising that these companies must meet a minimum valuation to be considered. Another restriction towards a franchise is the restriction that that company must have at least one Swiss resident with “signature power” representing the company. This is a good way of keeping a local presence at a foreign franchise. Overall, I would consider expanding a franchise into the country. However, franchisees are considered “independent contractors” so this can limit the amount of freedom to expand within the country.
Classmate’s Post 5
Franchising in France. As far as the legal situation of franchising in France is concerned, it is interesting to note that there is no legal definition of a franchise in French law. The French Franchise Federation uses the European Code of Ethics for Franchising’s definition of a franchise, which French courts use as a guide. So there is no codified mention of franchise agreements in French law and no government agencies specifically dedicated to the regulation of the buying and selling of franchises (Zeidman). The most famous law in French franchising is The Doubin Law, which “compels the franchisor to provide a range of information which content is fixed by the edict to the future franchisee which will inform his choice with full knowledge of the facts”. Beyond regulations and laws, there are several other things to consider before franchising in the French market including: the language barrier, the concepts may sometimes not suitable for the French market, Reluctance from banks to provide funding, as it is not always easy for them to check the financial documents given by outside organizations.
Despite these drawbacks, I would gladly consider the French market because it’s an open market and growing market. According to a survey of the French Franchise Federation (FFF) in 2008, there were 1,234 franchise brands and 49,094 franchise units in France.
International Franchise Wiki
Find an international franchise and see what was transferable to another country and what was not transferable. Consider all aspects of the franchise that required changes. Post what you learn to the wiki. Include the resource for your information.
Example 1
In this week’s assignment we are to locate an internationally based franchise and evaluate why or what would spark an interest in ownership. My diet must consist of purely organic, gluten-free products minus GMO’s and other additives. During my search for the ultimate international franchise, I quickly learned how this market (gluten-free foods) is growing expeditiously. Research indicates, “…U.S. sales alone will reach $5.6 billion by 2015” (EHA, 2011). I like Clancy's Meat Company.
The founder of this Canadian meat market created this opportunity to the consumer in 1976 a mission to, “to provide our customers with healthy, delicious and unique meal options” (Clancy’s, 2014, para 1).
After reading page after page from the company’s website, I decided to do an evaluation of the initial process for Canadian and international franchise prospects. First of all, Canada admits that there is an unbalanced relationship between the franchisor and franchisee. Their laws have changed from providence to providence. But here is the latest to be provided from the franchisor to the prospect. All pertinent materials must be disclosed up front.
1. Franchise Disclosure Legislation
2. The Disclosure Obligation
3. The Duty of Fair Dealing
4. The Right of Association
“The Disclosure Obligation
A franchisor wishing to grant a franchise in any of the disclosure provinces must provide a franchise disclosure document to a prospective franchisee not less than 14 days before the earlier of the signing by the prospective franchisee of the franchise agreement or any agreement relating to the franchise, and the payment of any consideration relating to the franchise. A disclosure document must contain all of the information prescribed by the regulations as well as all other “material facts” that would reasonably be considered relevant to a prospect’s decision to acquire the franchise. The disclosure document must also contain financial statements in either audited or review-engagement form. Each of the current provincial statutes contains an exemption from the requirement to include financial statements for large, mature franchisors' who meet the prescribed criteria” (Growlings, n.d., para, 8).
I did not discover surprising restrictions, but I am aware that we must always consider cultural differences even with our Northern neighbors. The information took me my storm. I loved most of what I read. And would strongly consider bringing this franchise into the States.' Primarily, because I know far too many children and adults who can no longer eat foods that are not gluten-free. Secondly, this is a strong investment. There is an example of stake, bread, and sauce that concerns me greatly!
Clancy’s offers garlic bread and their, “…signature marinated steaks” (Clancy’s, 2014). with a sauce. Anytime I see bread, but especially a sauce, I stay away. They offer a link to review the ingredients but I have learned, if it does not say gluten-free, I can't trust the product. I imagine such foods are consumed with gluten. In this case I would ask to add a disclosure on the bottom of each page of the menu to reflect all products are not gluten-free.
Taylor-
References:
Clancy’s Meat Company. (2014). Mission. Retrieved from
http://www.clancysmeatco.com/about/history/
Clancy’s Meat Company. (2014). Our products. Beef & Pork. Retrieved from http://www.clancysmeatco.com/products/beef-pork/
Eha, B.P. (2011, September 11). Gluten-Free Lifestyle Offers a Growing Market for Entrepreneurs. Retrieved from http://www.entrepreneur.com/article/224387
Growlings. (n.d.). Franchise Law. Para 8. Retrieved from http://www.gowlings.com/services/dbic/?p=18
Example 2
When any company goes international they have to look closely at cultural norms. Cultural norms play a huge part in what a business does. The United States is a much more open and free country, whereas other countries are much more conservative. Certain cultures do not consume certain foods that Americans do, while other countries eat unusual food to our culture. A great example of this is India. India is comprised of mostly (80+%) Hindus who believe that killing cows and eating beef is against religion. In fact, most people of India are vegetarians. Some countries shy away from alcohol while other countries—France, Netherlands, Germany, and Austria—actually serve beer at McDonalds. Some countries, like Europe, use the Metric system and therefore the Quarter Pounder is called the Royal Cheese.
I chose to investigate further into McDonalds since it is a fast food company that most countries seem to have. In India they have a complete vegetarian menu. The McVeggie—“a rice, bean and vegetable patty that McDonald’s treats predictably with breading—or the McAloo Tikki—a potato-vegetable burger” (Nasr, 2014). In the Malaysian capital, Kuala Lumpur, they sell Bubur Ayam McD for breakfast. What exactly is Bubur Ayam McD? Hint: In Singapore they call is Chicken SingaPorridge. If you guessed porridge with chicken in it than you would be correct! It actually is a porridge with chicken, onion, ginger, chili peppers, and shallots (Nasr, 2014). In Japan they sell EBI Filet-O. Any guesses as to what this is? Hint: In Hong Kong they call it the Shrimp Burger. It is a layer of shrimp that has been breaded and is served on a burger bun with lettuce and sauce. In Egypt they sell Shawarma which is normally lamb (sometimes chicken) cooked rotating-spit style and served in a warm pita. They also have, my personal favorite, Falafels which are “fried chickpea balls” in a pita with veggies and two sauces (Nasr, 2014). Australia sells Vegemite spread that people like to get for breakfast. It is black or darker brown and is made of leftover brewer’s yeast, vegetables and spices. They also sell a kids meal called Pasta Zoo (cheese and veggie raviolis in the shapes of animals) served with “Zoo Goo” sauce (Nasr, 2014). Italy has spinach and parmesan cheese stuffed McNuggets. They also have carrot, peach, torta della nonna (“Tuscan Cheese Tart”) and torta caprese (“chocolate and nut cake”) cakes all dusted with powdered sugar on top (instead of icing—Italian style) (Nasr, 2014). Spain sells Gazpacho Soup while Brazil sells Banana Pie. Lastly, Mexico sells Molletes (McMolletes) which are “three Engish muffins, each topped with refried beans, white American cheese and a little salsa” (Nasr, 2014). It is meant to be eaten open-faced style.
Some McDonalds choose to keep most of the menu and just add a specialty item while others choose to change the whole menu.
Reference
Nasr, S. L. (n.d.). HowStuffWorks "10 Unusual Items from McDonald's International Menu". HowStuffWorks. Retrieved May 1, 2014, from http://money.howstuffworks.com/10- items-from-mcdonalds-international-menu.htm#page=1
Example 3
When McDonald’s expanded internationally, one of the major changes they had to make was to their menu. It was very important to customize the menu to cater to the culture they were entering. The article, “10 Unusual Items from McDonald’s International Menu” says it all. These items are:
• Australia: Pasta Zoo and a side of Zoo Goo (a vegetable and cheese ravioli in the shape of zoo animals with a tomato based sauce) OR Vegemite spread on an English muffin
• Japan: EBI Filet-O or Shrimp Burger in Hong Kong (a mix of hamburger and shrimp burger)
• Malaysia: Bubur Ayam McD or Chicken SingaPorridge in Singapore (cup of porridge with bits of chicken, ginger, onion shallots, and chili peppers)
• Singapore: Shaka Shaka Chicken (deep fried chicken served in a wax-paper bag to which you add spicy powder and as you “shaka” it, the spices stick to the chicken)
• India: The McVeggie (a rice, bean, and vegetable patty). There are no beef burgers in India as 80% of the people killing and eating cows are against religious beliefs.
• Egypt and across the Middle East: The McArabia (two chicken or beef patties in pita bread with lettuce, tomato, onion and tahini sauce). An imitation of the popular shawarma or falafel.
• Italy: Spinach and Parmesan Cheese McNuggets (nuggets stuffed with spinach and Parmesan cheese) and cake slices sprinkled with powdered sugar (no frosting for an authentic Italian dessert)
• Spain: Gazpacho (a chilled soup with a base of olive oil, vinegar, water, and bread cubes)
• Brazil: Banana Pie
• Mexico: Molletes (three English muffins with refried beans, white American cheese, and salsa) (Nasr 2014)
Although all the McDonald’s around here have the same menus and everything tastes the same, it is weird to think a franchise could change so much. One of the characteristics of a franchise that has been consistent is the signage, tastes, and trademarks of the brand. While it is different for a franchise to do this, it is critical. I think it is impressive how much the fast-food restaurant studied and caters to the culture they are in. For example, McDonalds wouldn’t last at all in India if they carried over the same menu that they have in the United States. To be successful you have to offer what people want to buy.
For the Franchise Agreement Analysis last week, I analyzed Gloria Jean’s Coffees. So I wondered for this franchise, how much if anything would change. Although it is food/drink items like McDonalds, I wondered how much coffee would change internationally. I compared a U.S. menu to an Australia menu. While some of the items were the same, there were differences. For example, both menus offer cappuccinos but only the Australian menu offers a Piccolo Latte. Even navigating the two websites are very different. On the Australian website the links available are hot drinks, cold drinks, merchandise, and beans and capsules. On the website for the U.S., the links are categorized as flavored, teas and cocoas, origins and blends, k-cups, merchandise, decaf, deals, and corporate (Gloria Jeans's Coffees 2014).
Nasr, S. (2014). 10 Unusual Items from McDonald’s International Menu. Retrieved from:
http://money.howstuffworks.com/10-items-from-mcdonalds-international-menu.htm#page=1
Gloria Jean’s Coffees. (2014). Hot Drinks. Retrieved from:
http://www.gloriajeanscoffees.com.au/About/Products.aspx
Gloria Jean’s Coffees. (2014). Gloria Jean’s Coffees. Retrieved from:
https://www.gloriajeans.com/
