Discussion Post 1: Ethics in Organizations
Should America Fire Ronald McDonald?
There are ethical issues and potential ramifications to consider in marketing, when unhealthy products (or those that would be unhealthy when consumed in excess) are sold. Examples could include some of the advertising used for sodas and sugary drinks, alcoholic beverages, tobacco products, and high-calorie "junk food." A particularly sensitive topic is the issue of marketing to children. Think about how perceptions of "healthy," what business practices are socially acceptable, and where responsibilities lie have changed over time.
Several articles on this subject have been identified for you in the South University Online Library and are listed below. Review those and conduct your own research on this topic. Then respond to the following:
a) Ronald McDonald has been a staple in advertising McDonald's fast food restaurants since the 1960s. What ethical issues do you see in using Ronald McDonald or McDonald's new mascot, Happy, to market to children?
b) Is it ethical to use either Ronald or Happy in McDonald's charitable efforts? What issues concern you?
c) Should McDonald's and other food sellers do more to make their menus healthy?
d) What changes do you think should be made to try and resolve some of these issues, and how would you go about implementing them?
Discussion Post 2: Fundamentals of Project Management
Project Manager and the Team
In the context of A Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK Guide) chapter on project human resource management, what is involved in project team member acquisition, development, and ongoing team management?
Considering that these choices represent management alternatives, what set of human resource imperatives are important to each of the three project organization archetypes?
Do an Internet search for the Keirsey Temperament Sorter questionnaire and find a site that appears to have a reputable self-assessment questionnaire. Respond to the questionnaire to identify your temperament type. Read supportive documents associated with your type and answer the following questions:
a) What does this material suggest are the kinds of projects that would best suit you? What does it suggest your strengths and weaknesses are as a project manager?
b) How can you compensate for your weaknesses?
c) Which of the eight traits or skills associated with being an effective project manager is the most important? Which traits are least important? Why?
d) What is the difference between leading and managing a project?
Project Paper Assignment: Virtual Projects
Using the South University Online Library, research about virtual projects. Based on your research, answer the following questions:
1) Which virtual project problems are unique to the phenomenon of being dispersed and which are common project problems in any project?
2) Which virtual problems are the most serious for virtual projects? Why? Which virtual problems might be fatal for virtual projects? Why?
3) What are some potential solutions to virtual team problems? Which solutions would apply to regular project teams also?
Format your assignment according to the give formatting requirements:
a. The answer must be double spaced, typed, using Times New Roman font (size 12), with one-inch margins on all sides.
b. The response also includes a cover page containing the title of the assignment, the course title, the student's name, and the date. The cover page is not included in the required page length.
c. Also include a reference page. The references and Citations should follow APA format. The reference page is not included in the required page length.
References
a) Bakir, A., & Vitell, S. J. (2010). The ethics of food advertising targeted toward children: Parental viewpoint. Journal of Business Ethics, 91(2), 299-311. doi:
b) Beaubien, G. (2011). Ronald McDonald's role reduced in image revamp. Public Relations Strategist, 17(1), 27.
c) Hansen, D. (2006, June 5). Ronald McDonald fronts 2010 Olympic fitness pitch. The Vancouver Sun.
d) McDonald's gives Ronald makeover for healthier image. (2005, June 10). Kamloops Daily News.
e) McDonald's introduces new mission and image for Ronald McDonald. (2014). Food and Beverage Close-Up.