Category Archives: Business

Examples Of Hotel Management KPI That You Can Use

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There are literally thousands of hospitality business indicators that you can use right now. These indicators are commonly known as the hotel management KPI. When you have an effective KPI set for your hotel business, this removes the guesswork when it comes to managing the hotel business. What this does is that it checks the performance of your business through the numbers or the figures so that the managers will be able to use the data in telling what is really gong on within the hotel. Before you get around and research about the hotel management KPI, you should know the difference between that and the hotel KRIs. These two are often compared to each other but they are quite diverse. The hotel KRIs do not focus on the good side of the performance of the company; instead, you will obtain data about how risky your hotel activities are. Having said that, they are also very useful when it comes to tracking the health of your business.

Now, when looking for the best hotel management KPI for your business, you should not only focus on the entire organization because it would be very difficult to do so. You will need to divide the KPIs into different groups or classifications so that it will be easier for you to keep track of them. Among the types of KPIs that you can utilize are the KPIs for reception or front desk efficiency, housekeeping, kitchen, sales, restaurant, store, maintenance and purchasing among others.

Many hotels nowadays offer housekeeping services for their clients. If the hotel that you are managing provides such to your guests, it is essential that you keep track of its performance. This is because many clients are meticulous when it comes to the cleanliness of their surroundings especially their rooms. They are on a vacation so they expect themselves to be pampered and not to be responsible for the task of cleaning their rooms. You can measure the efficiency of your housekeeping services through KPIs such as the number of available staff members for cleaning, the feedback of customers based upon the housekeeping services they have acquired and the total amount of time required for cleaning among others.

Of course, you cannot deny the fact that it is important for you to know how well your business is responding when it comes to the sales department. Cash flow is very significant especially in this type of business. Your hospitality business indicators may vary here according to the different sales efforts that you put out. For instance, if you have a website, you can check the number or the percentage of inquiries that have turned into sales. You can also use KPIs that will tell you about the number of sales per head on your restaurant or your bar. You can also measure the gross profit on sales, the stock turnover, the carrying cost of the stock and the stock value.

Aside from the financials and the customer sales, it is important that you are well aware of how your employees are performing. Always ensure that you have a set of good hotel management KPI that will aid you in monitoring the behavior, the professionalism and the demeanor of your workers.

Restaurant Kitchen Management System And Production Cost Control

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Restaurant management systems grant food service management for restaurant establishments of all sizes and styles. This extremely planned software is unique and is competent to be customized to meet the unique needs of each food service establishment. Learn more about how this convincing yet inexpensive software can transform your food service business into a smooth management, money-making, society known business.

Point of sales provides far-fetched software that has been uniquely designed to meet the decision-making needs of restaurant business. This software is customizable to meet specific needs for pizzerias, delivery only, coffee shops, sub shops, multi-chain stores, and more. Your companies can know-how new levels of efficiency in employee and management hours as well as in customer service and the public awareness. The benefits of this management software are infinite. Restaurant management software has been designed by a restaurant skilled who is also a computer specialist. The result is a product that is transforming restaurants with its easy to use multi-functioning managerial skills.

The restaurant management systems to take businesses afar their existing situation and make over the business into a smooth running, efficient, customer pleasing, and community involved establishment. The assistance of this professionally designed unique software is transforming the way the restaurant business is run. Restaurant management software is built to track and manage all the activities with hotel chains and restaurants like cost and inventory.

Why leave open doors to waste and unnecessary employee earnings when you can utilize point of sales to stop avoidable waste and alleviate excess employee wages through streamlining tasks such as menu programming, inventory import, payroll, customer approval, employee hours, ordering products, product inventory, and more. The restaurant management systems also includes free training classes and 12 months of technical support to assist the restaurant business in the establishment of new managerial skills and customized options including customer incentives. Customer incentives are an easy and extremely effective way to build a strong customer base. It also assists restaurants in creating a voice in the community through unconfirmed report advertisement.

Customer incentives are a very successful marketing tool that is cost-effective when compared to traditional advertising known as scattered marketing. Scattered marketing includes mailings, booklet advertisements, and flyers. This type of marketing is not nearly as successful as customer incentives which encourage customers to make your establishment a common part of their daily, weekly, and monthly eating habits. Software for hotel management, restaurant accounting software, restaurant management software, restaurant production management, restaurant software, restaurant operations management, restaurant inventory management, catering management, catering software, best hotel management software, online hotel management software, hotel property management systems Automated customer incentives provide quality, inexpensive advertising that has proven long-term results.

Restaurant management systems can be installed onto existing tools in the restaurant by technical maintain or it can be ordered preinstalled on high-tech computer tools complete with register printers that provide gift cards as well as receipts and even coupons. The cash register express and the Microsoft retail management system worked together to completely assist restaurant management in the detailed running of the establishment. Every aspect of the restaurant business is overseen from A-Z utilizing this powerfully effective tool. Utilize point of sales to locate any leaky areas in your business that is producing wasted profit and begin to experience your business operating as a smooth running machine with the clarification of waste.

The restaurant management systems are customizable for multiple food service company and easily add in multi-cash inventory as well as multi-store chains into one easy to use system. Find out additional about how the powerful point of sales system can benefit your business. restaurant accounting software, restaurant management software, restaurant production management, restaurant software, restaurant operations management, restaurant inventory management, catering management, catering software, best hotel management software, online hotel management software, software for hotel management, hotel property management systems, kitchen production cost control management system, restaurant bill of materials, restaurant production management, restaurant menu based bill of materials, restaurant cost control management system, web based restaurant software, restaurant inventory management, restaurant vendor management, restaurant purchase management

If You Are Confused About The Concept Of brand Positioning

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The Surface Meanings of Positioning

This health care product lost the market share because it didnt find the correct position and failed to win the consumers favor.

Working in the office, you should know your position clearly to win the praise of your colleagues and get a promotion.

This company positioned itself to be a third-party hotel which only provides top grade services and thus got remarkable profits over time.

The definition of positioning is accepted and used widely. However, if we do a sample survey of business managers and marketing personnel, and people working in market consulting services and the advertising industry for their understanding of “positioning “, I believe you will get a variety of answers. It seems that even many professional people, just simply accepted and memorized the term “positioning”, and use it in some specific situations! Few people truly consider “positioning” as a tool and how to put it in to practice.

If “positioning” is indeed effective, at least we need to understand the concept, master the methods, and put theories into practice. We can not just purely discuss about what “positioning” is and treat it as a fashionable term to enrich our vocabulary.

Now, lets look into “positioning”.

Different positioning

Advertising Age, an authoritative advertising magazine in the United States, published Positioning Era in 1972 written by Al Ries and Jack Trout, which declared the birth of positioning.

Al Ries and Jack Trout thought that “positioning” is a method of occupying a market position in the minds of the target audiences. Therefore, they use the present continuous tense “Positioning” to express the process. Any country, company, organization, individual, product or service could use this method to occupy a position in the minds of consumers.

The “positioning” that Al Ries and Jack Trout mentioned actually refers to in-depth study of the target audience from the perspective of the audience themselves in order to choose information to distribute effectively and guarantee a means for consistent communications. This will create a method which impresses consumers and gets them memorize the company in a certain way. Using common language to express these ideas we can name it: the what to say approach.

The principle of positioning brought forward a new era. With this concept widely known and accepted by the mass, marketing experts also tried to connect this principle with the existing marketing theory systems. Thus, we have the classic “S-T-P” steps, S stands for segmentation; T for targeting and P for positioning which is something that occupies a certain place in the minds of the consumers with its unique designs in supplies. (Philip Kolter, Marketing Management 10th edition). Please note that “positioning” here has surpassed its original meaning, it is not just a means of communication, but also holds meaning of unique design in supply.” In other words, the meaning of “positioning” lies in how to design the products, how to price them and what special services should be provided. Obviously, providing uniqueness in supply has actually become the key work of marketing! Therefore, “positioning” changed from a means of communication to the core point of marketing. Marketing experts have completely accepted the term “positioning” and admits the positive influence of adding “positioning” to Marketing Theories, and thus, its meaning have been enriched. Frankly speaking, from the perspective of marketing experts, “positioning” is not just matter of “what we should say”; it has become “what we should sell”.

When marketing experts promote the “S-T-P” method, strategic positioning” becomes the focus of discussion. Michael Porter’s On Competition said that: The essence of the business strategy is “positioning.” In his book, he pointed out: Enterprises can position themselves based on the types of specific products. Just as Galanz’s strategy has focused on the production and development of microwave ovens; enterprises can also position themselves based on all the needs or most needs of specific customers or as how IKEA positioned itself by providing a complete series of household products to young people, who care mainly about price, like to change styles all the time, and do not need services.

After determining a “positioning” strategy, a set of carefully selected activities can be carried out accordingly to strengthen the uniqueness value to their consumers. Take the Southwest Airlines for example, its “positioning” strategy is to provide serve- specific air routes and low-cost and convenient services, in this way, it can reduce boarding time, forgo providing any unnecessary VIP cabin services and only purchase Boeing 737 aircraft in order to enhance the efficiency of maintenance and strengthen its competitive advantages. These simplified activities are carried out based on the strategic “positioning” plan, and has helped to continuously consolidate their market “positioning”, so that other airlines can not compete with them at all.

From the perspective of Michael Porte, “positioning” has got even a richer meaning. The “positioning” of enterprises is what we should do and this is the essence of business management strategy and also the origin of competitive advantages.

There are three different levels of application of “positioning”. They are enterprise strategy level, marketing level and communication level respectively (see picture 1). Confusion often occurs because of the definitions of these three levels of “positioning” are actually different, but all of them are wide-spread and accepted. When we are able to examine “positioning” from different levels, then we can confirm in which level to use “positioning” correctly so that we can avoid confusion about its definition.

It is worth mentioning that the three levels of “positioning” dont contradict each other, on the contrary, the unification of the three levels can form a strong competitive advantage.

For example, Volvo focuses on producing safe cars, the “positioning” of which is in the enterprise level and also in marketing level, this is consistently shown in the process of their communications. So in the minds of consumers, Volvo occupies a market position of safety.

The ideal state of the three levels of “positioning” is a united one. Southwest Airlines, IKEA and Harley Motorcycles are some of the best examples of unity among the three levels of positioning. Strategic “positioning” is the core and direction of business management, so as to determine the direction of the products and services development, and further establish its unique position in the minds of target consumers through communications. We can see that such enterprises are strong powers in their markets.

Positioning and Brands

Clients often need an advertising company to provide positioning services for a certain brands. However, because Al Ries and Jack Trout didnt attempt to construct a theoretical system, nor there is clear definition about the relationship between “branding” and “positioning”. Therefore, the following situations are likely to occur: the clients who believe in the positioning theory claim that they need brand positioning for their shampoo products, for instance, but actually, they do not know what kind of materials concerning the brand the advertising company will submit. Proceeding from the view of business, the advertising company is willing to provide this service for the client, yet due to lack of theoretical basis and standards, clients can not actually identify the quality of the proposal submitted by the advertising company. The two sides will not be able to have in-depth negotiations or revisions on the proposal.

We should change this situation by creating a clear definition; otherwise this problem will seriously affect daily work progress and market results for many enterprises. Like the invention of the light bulb is based on the discovery of electricity, the “positioning” of a brand comes from the unity between “positioning” and “branding”, it is closest to Al Ries and Jacks classic theory on positioning–the positioning of communication, which is the first of the three levels of positioning in theory and practice mentioned above.

“Branding” is the general awareness of consumers on specific organizations, products, services, and the differences among them (Please refer to my article If You Are Confused About the Concept of Branding, and Graphic II in this article to familiarize yourself with the concept of branding). “Positioning” is the process of occupying a position in consumers minds. Therefore, we can consider “branding” as a result, and “positioning” as an approach.

Graphic II
Distinguished-What the brand represents?
Entity-What the brand stands for?
Awareness-to who the brand is meaningful for?

Giving positioning to a brand is to rebuild consumers awareness through the means of communication, which is actually a process of establishing a position or adjusting the present position. When this is completed, in the minds of consumers, a brand will be established or the awareness about a certain symbol has fundamentally changed.

If “positioning” is an approach, then from the perspective of overall brand management, what is the relevance of positioning itself? We know that the core means of brand management is to establish the “symbol system” in the minds of target consumers which is, in fact, to manage the communications and the differences mentioned in the materials provided to further manage the awareness of the target consumers. For this aspect of brand management a relatively complete methodology system exists; David Aakers brand recognition system.” In this system, as a process, brand management is divided into four steps:

Graphic III
1. Establishing brand awareness
2. Brand positioning
3. Communication
4. Following and checking the effects of communication activities and continue to improve them.

In these four steps, the main task of brand positioning is to have the brand recognition content and brand value orientation communications initiatively communicate with the target consumers.

Perhaps we can use peoples thoughts as an example to help us understand David Aakers insightful view. View points of Brand recognition is how a man sees himself, brand positioning is how this person describes himself and brand awareness is how others look at this person.

It is very simple; the essence of brand management is to combine other peoples opinions about you and your own opinion about yourself through various means. Brand positioning, however, is to let others remember your methods in this complex and saturated competitive environment (Graphic IV shows the relationship among brand identification, positioning and awareness).

Conclusion

This article aims to dissipate the fog of the concept and directly reveal the core concept.

Many people are confused about positioning, the reason is that the concept of positioning originated only from communication, but it has been further developed to the following three levels: strategy, marketing and communication.

Many people are confused about the relationship between branding and positioning as well, it is because they confuse branding itself with brand development and management measures.

The problem that we are facing is not the lack of theories, but actually having too many theories on this topic. Lets learn how to distinguish and select proper theories, not only select them but truly, systemically and creatively devote ourselves to implementing the theories we believe in. If these things are accomplished it will be more likely for enterprises and individuals to continuously achieve success in the more and more mature and fierce market competition in China as well as the global market.

The Dos And Donts Of Starting A Wholesale Clothing Business

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The wholesale clothing industry is among of the fastest growing industry today. May it be off or online, the wholesale clothing business has become the largest trend around the world. This is because of the reason that people always needs clothes, it is both a necessity and a luxury.

Majority of individuals that set-off and start their own wholesale clothing businesses are those that already own a clothing retail business. These people are those that wanted to expand their businesses and earn more by selling their stocks in bulk.

Though these kinds of people have the necessary experience in handling a business, a wholesale is still a different business that involves processes which are distinct from those of retail. One of which is customers. Instead of selling to the public, wholesalers engage a business to business system in which wholesalers sell directly to other businesses such as retail businesses, retail distributors, exporters, and other wholesale businesses.

But other than customers, there are also other processes that make a wholesale business, in this case a wholesale clothing business, different from a retail business. Having no knowledge about these processes could lead the business to bankruptcy. So here are some Dos and the Donts of starting a wholesale clothing business.

Choosing a Storage Location

Do: Choose a storage or warehouse located near the manufacturer and retailers. Choosing a location that is physically near from a supplier or retailers can save more time and money when in comes to transport. This is particularly important for those that are only starting out.

Also, check if the cost of the rent or space is applicable for the amount of capital allotted. Do a research about several locations, if the place is cheaper than the others, and perfect because its physically near the market, then that is the most appropriate location.

Dont: Though the location is cheaper and near to the market, if the area and the location itself arent secure, then that is not the perfect place to start a wholesale clothing business. Dont start a wholesale clothing business on a location that offers too little or no security. Also, check if the location offers some laborsaving to material handling, warehousing methods, or inventory procedures. If the location cannot provide those, then the better thing to do is to choose from another place.

Order Flow Procedures

Do: Do a systematically planned order flow system. Careful planning of the order flow system is essential for starting any wholesale business. This is because when the orders from the customers start to come in, the procedure in which the stock is processed must be done thoroughly and systematically. This is to avoid unnecessary mistakes when the retailer phones in and inquire about their stock and finds out that their order will be coming late.

Dont: Avoid making the mistake to not update a customer of their order. Make sure that they are filled in with the information they deserve about their stock. So as much as possible, give them the information they need, and dont delay them.

Customers

Do: Do a list of those customers that you have failed to get. Apart from making a list of your own line of retailers and wholesalers, its also important to make a list of those that you failed to have. This is to keep track on their activities such as if they are still loyal to other wholesaler or have already left to find another one. Or if you need another retailer on your wholesale clothing business, you could ask them again to join you. You might be surprised and find out that theyre now willing to join.

Dont: Dont include those that cant show any supporting documents on their business. When looking for a dealer or distributor, make sure that they have legal documents that permit them to resell your products. This can ensure your businesss security.

Competitive Credit Policy

Do: Do a research about the competitiveness of giving credits. Giving credits to retailers and other customers is a common thing when it comes to wholesaling. It is part of every wholesalers strategy to lure customers on their business, especially on a wholesale clothing business. This allows them to buy their stock and pay for it when they have enough cash to pay. Setting up a competitive credit policy could give any wholesalers an edge when it comes to attracting customers to their business.

Dont: Dont give any credit to those customers that cant represent a complete documentation, papers, and permit for their business. Make sure that the customers are capable of paying back the credits they took. This is done by checking up on their references. Check if they were able to pay on time and complete. If they dont have the papers or any other supporting documents of their recent credit, then dont give them any credits.

Maintain A Close Contact with Retailers and Other Customers

Do: Maintain a good relationship with customers. Maintaining a good relationship with customers is the one of the most important aspect that ever wholesaler should practice. In a wholesale business, in this case a wholesale clothing business, keeping in good terms with customers can produce good results that may help proliferate the business such as loyalty and trust.

Talking with them, listening to their suggestions about the business, asking them on whats on the demand in clothing, are the ways that can insure them that you are concerned about the success of your business and of them. This builds up the credibility of a person as a wholesaler when it comes to doing business.

Dont: Dont let the customers feel as if they are just things. Mistreating a customer by letting them face a secretary or talk to answering machines could degrade their loyalty and trust to the business which could then lead them to leave. Lack of communication could also affect the wholesalers credibility in handling a business. So make sure to communicate with customers and talk to them personally as much as possible.

Find Risk Transformation Approach For Business Management

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Crucible Risk Consulting can help develop an operational model to fulfill regulatory directives for the management involving banking, financial risk, and ensuring investment capital adequacy inside banks and satisfy the set expectations for credit, market, liquidity, operational risk as mandated inside the Basel II and also III accords. We can enhance or make a robust risk infrastructure and also the management information capability to enable submission with greater potential for superior decision producing and ease the execution of risk measurement and also management.

High returns on investment could be a reward regarding high risk, but choosing a high risk may well not always result in higher returns and worst still results in a financial disaster. Each time, a business overlooks this specific fundamental tip of organization, and then it is likely to face extreme ramifications. Companies tend to forget the particular difference between choosing a blind risk along with a calculated risk.

The process of creating any talent management strategy has become instrumental in transferring leaders’ mindsets to determine their people as a competitive advantage. Leaders used systems thinking to name who was essential to keep existing business and drive home based business. This created discussions forcing executives to operate through differences associated with an opinion regarding your value and contribution.

Several global businesses today include achieving impressive efficiencies and also savings through various techniques. But it is no longer enough. Organizations that would like to reach the next level throughout performance will need to challenge on their own to fundamentally transform the procurement perform.

Each of our business transformation consultant comments within the importance of being confident that your desired significant change is applicable and appropriate I will be your business strategy “fit-for-purpose” in addition to correctly aligned with what is happening in at the particular operational level? Maybe in order to attain your strategic objectives you’ll want to merge with and/or attain another company or maybe organic growth is what’s needed.

A top-notch and well-defined vision encompasses a sense of urgency to overcome any complacency that could be exhibited by stakeholders. It clarifies the typical direction for a big difference. It also motivates and motivates visitors to act in the proper direction and facilitates align employees actions while using organization’s strategic aims. For maximum effectiveness, the vision should be clear, focused and easy to communicate.

A successful transformational leader could have certain qualities to guide and influence others to create fundamental, not only towards the external world, but also to internal procedures.