Workplace mediations in cyberspace Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Workplace mediations in cyberspace - Essay Example Bandwidth and connectivity speeds have been increasing. Parties in disputes are using technology to bypass the legal mechanisms or institutions (Armbrust 2000). The virtual platform is not only private but decentralized. This has enabled organizations develop a decentralized environment in the quest to develop dispute resolution mechanisms using cyberspace (Barrett and Barrett 2012). The participants of the cyberspace mediation are expected to develop a decision without involving the judges. The representation of multiparty disputes and other parties is not affected. Internet offers a platform for glass root information and development of information from the pluralistic nature of its architecture (Wang 2010). The applications within cyberspace make it possible to use enormous information from a variety of sources during the mediation process. The dispute resolution professionals are optimistic about the cyberspace mediation and the potential thereof (Hawk, Rieder, and Oviedo 2008). The development of a virtual dispute resolution mechanism is perceived to be the modern organizations’ highest aspirations (Barrett and Barrett 2004). The virtual architecture is expected to prove that mediators can use technology to resolve organizational issues within a short period (Armbrust 2000). This cyberspace mediation saves time and space. Research shows that virtual mediation shall cause organizations to invest in enhanced technology. This shall benefit other aspects about the operations of an organization (Breslow and Mousoutzanis 2012). Virtual negotiations eliminate travel costs and save money for the parties (Barrett and Barrett 2004). The mediators are said to be more effective in the digital platform given that the temperatures of the disputes appear to be low because of the geographical barriers. Numerous mediators argue that cyberspace mediations pose straightforward challenges (Doherty and Guyler 2008). However, the challenges are be overcome as a growing n umber of internet users get acquainted to online settings (Barrett and Barrett 2004). Critics argue that online communication and dispute resolutions cannot be a substitute to solving challenges while physically present (Breslow and Mousoutzanis 2012). This is linked to the values and attributes of communication during mediation. Many mediators argue that the fact that disputants are incapable of speaking is the reason for mediation (Armbrust 2000). The choice of using a digital platform which is perceived as slow and prone to breakdown is questionable (Hawk, Rieder, and Oviedo 2008). However, a growing number of organizations are targeting the global market and opening branches across the world (Gonc?alves 2008). The process of dispute resolution between to international branches or employees working in different continents has necessitated the use of technology (Barrett and Barrett 2004). The process of online mediation is said to ensure organizations or multinational operate as u nits despite the geographical barriers (Breslow and Mousoutzanis 2012). Online mediation offers better safeguards for caution and sensitivity compared to the conventional mediation (Breslow and Mousoutzanis 2012). The online mediums of mediation are lessening as a growing number of organizational or workplace activities become founded on technology (Armbrust 2000). The demands of the online platforms and the mediation process have advanced to the place of accepting online communications for exclusive transactions (Barrett and Barrett 2004). Technology has developed to an extent of replicating face-to-face interactions in comprehensive and inexpensive ways (Hartley 2007). Majority of participants in the online understand the dynamics and

Best Buy SWOT Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Best Buy SWOT - Research Paper Example In the case of Best Buy, the strengths are powerful scaling capability, the people: culture and passion, strong market share, (Judge), high level of community service and local involvement and customer service (OPPapers.com). Best Buy Co., Inc. entered the business in 1996 when computers and internet are really gaining much popularity. It has "grown steadily and enhanced its business through inspired innovation" and "continually transforming into a dynamic, customer-driven, talent-powered company that focuses on enhancing our customers' enjoyment of technology" so that now it already has branches in U.S., Canada, Europe, China and Mexico (Best Buy). From one branch it was able to scale up its operation to cater to cross-country branches. With 155,000 employees, Best Buy is a hub of satisfied and energetic individuals with the strength of youth and innovation (Best Buy). Due to its strength in scaling up production and service, another branch in South America such as in Chile is very much possible. Best Buy always remembers to share its success with the community. It has strengthened its community partnership with the Best Buy Children's Foundation and other charitable programs (Best Buy). Best Buy also h as increasing market share. Forbes.com reported an increase of sales by 1.7% in the first quarter of 2007, while competitor Circuit City experienced a plummet of 5.6%. (Farrell). The recent report also reveals that from March to December 2009, "Best Buy's combined online and offline share of the notebook computer and digital camera markets gained 5.5%, flat-panel televisions increased 5.2%, and desktop computers gained 4.7%" (Vertical Web Media.). The increasing market share enables Best Buy to expand its reach, even to foreign countries. It is coupled with popularity, which it can capitalize on once it opens in Chile. Lastly, Best Buy has an excellent customer service which makes shopping more convenient. Opposite to the internal strength is the internal weaknesses. In the case of Best Buy, these weaknesses include too much bureaucracy, undifferentiated products or services and complicated shipping schedules (OPPapers.com). The absence of strengths on each of these aspects result to a business weakness, which can cause dismay to customers. Too much bureaucracy inside Best Buy results to lesser efficiency. If the hierarchy is so tall, transactions may take longer time to be accomplished. This problem is much worse given an operation in a foreign country such as Chile. The delay in delivery and logistics can harm the entire business. There is also the problem of undifferentiated products and services, which is primarily not beneficial to customers. Lastly, since there are already a lot of customers from around the world, Best Buy has not still found the best way of managing their logistics especially in shipping. This can cause delay and inconvenience on the part of the customers. Looking at the external environment may "reveal certain new opportunities for profit and growth" (Internet Center for Management and Business Administration, Inc.). The opportunities present for Best Buy are increased preference for the brand, more categories to enhance the brand (Judge), and more expansion opportunities (OPPapers.com) and the increasing use of computers and internets in other countries. The gaining of greater market share for Best