Introduction
Statistics on mental health and addiction successful recovery rates in the United States remain high regardless of the state’s currently suffering from the nationwide opioid crisis. Most health institutions and drug rehab centers currently utilize different evidence-based treatment that is personalized in various means to assist patients in recovering from addiction. Various factors influence the management of mental health disorders among the population. Access to healthcare options that facilitate the healing process and availability of healthcare professionals who support the process. These two factors are critical in determining how addicts respond to their recovery journey. For people suffering from anxiety and depression, self-medication through substance abuse and drugs can be assumed as the most convenient alternative when they lack the necessary support from professional healthcare providers. Regardless of reported successful recovery rates on mental health and addiction within states remain high, there are numerous challenges and factors that hinder the successful recovery of patients, such as healthcare professional shortages, increased cost of Medicare, and present some of the best ways for successful recovery.
Mental health disorders and addiction often result in alcohol and drug dependency, schizophrenia, depression, and anxiety. Statistics from National Alliance on Mental Illness report that 39.9% of adults have reported symptoms of anxiety or depression, with 27% not being able to get appropriate treatment (Statistics from National Alliance on Mental Illness, n.d). The analysis of this data indicates that a successful recovery or relapse depends on the availability of resources for mental health and the scarcity of healthcare professionals. While the success of recovery from any addiction is determined by the addicts’ willingness to access available resources, the lacking of these resources, such as the shortage of professional assistance, worsens the success rate immensely. At the same time, the country grapples with a nationwide shortage of healthcare professionals (Haddad et al., 2022). It can be expected that more people from Michigan that suffer from addiction continue to lack support from healthcare professionals. According to Statistics from National Alliance on Mental Illness (n.d), 4.2 million people in Michigan live in communities that experience a lack of mental healthcare professionals. This critical condition only adds to the overall statistics of people prone to relapse from any addiction. This implies that most people continue to experience sub-threshold mental challenges, which means the United States mental health has failed to reach the threshold for successful recovery.
COVID-19 is another factor that hinders the successful recovery of patients undergoing an opioid crisis. The government directives for people to adhere to social distancing largely changed the drug use patterns, such as higher rates of drug additions in isolation, thus, increasing the risk of a fatal overdose. The recent healthcare crisis posed by COVID – 19 pandemic only widened the gap of healthcare professional shortage from a priority perspective. Looking to contain the spread of the coronavirus amongst the population, there was a need to change the hierarchy of priorities at that particular moment. This change increased the vulnerability levels of people suffering from mental disorders or addiction due to the lack of healthcare professionals. Looking to adapt to the new changes in healthcare priorities, healthcare personnel became prone to mental health disorders influenced by the tough times during and after the pandemic period (Edwards et al., 2020). It is again impacting the levels of access to healthcare professionals for the diagnosed patients going through the recovery journey.
Professional shortages in healthcare influence the abuse of illegal drugs that affects the human brain, which cause a compulsion to use the drug and powerful craving for opioid to make it look like an impossible goal.The increasing factors that influence healthcare professional shortage influence the business equation in healthcare service delivery. The demand and supply ratio becomes highly inverted, raising Medicare’s cost. The cost of Medicare is another factor that influences the success or relapse rate of an addict’s recovery and treatment of mental health patients. Recent statistics from NAMI (n.d) show that due to cost, 38.4% of people did not access medical assistance. While the number of people who could access medical assistance due to cost was high, the number of uninsured at 5.8% raises the rates of relapse among mental health patients and addicts in the same measure. A recent study by Heun-Johnson, Machine, et al. (2018) on the cost of mental health showed a need to increase funding to support patients diagnosed with mental health disorders. While Illinois considers itself as a state with the lowest number of psychological disorder cases at 9.6% compared to Michigan State with 39.9% as of 2021, this scenario highlights the impact of Medicare cost in treating psychological disorders and addiction.
Settings remain a major factor that influences socio-economic disparities that are known contributing factors to opioid use, such as patient socio-economic status that include lack of health services, limited opportunities for medical advancement, lower educational levels, income inequality, unemployment, and low income. Financial constraints significantly influence the rate of recovery and relapse almost at the same ratio. Individuals on the lower scale of financial earning become causalities of Medicare costs since they cannot pay for insurance to access medical and professional assistance. It is a scenario that continues to significantly impact 5.8% of the population in Michigan State (Mischling, 2020). Financial status is crucial in determining at what level an individual can access medical assistance or seek professional help.
The cost of Medicare and individual financial earnings push patients to seek alternative treatment options, which act as their coping mechanisms as they await to become financially stable to acquire the proper medical and professional assistance. Substance abuse and the use of drugs as coping mechanisms have led to the relapse of many individuals in their journey to recovery. According to McCance-Katz, (2018), the reliance on substances such as opioids for mentally ill individuals is a critical issue that should be addressed to reduce the number of relapses and an increasing number of opioid drug addictions among the young generation. This study gives an in-depth analysis of how substance abuse and reliance on opioids have led to an increased number of individuals that relapse due to a lack of medical access or professional assistance. At the same time, the author gives essential tips on managing this social problem by Prioritizing the training of healthcare professionals, building a national system of technical assistance and training, funding innovative programs, and a new approach to severe mental illness.
The problem of substance abuse and reliance on opioids remains an impending factor that increases the number of people who relapse in their recovery journey. However, mental health and addiction recovery are not out of reach, regardless of how hopeless the patient’s situation looks or how many times they have tried to quit. The easy access to alcohol and drugs in society can be seen as an incentive that drives most addicts and people diagnosed with mental illness as a way of self-medication. Having no control over their addiction or mental illness, these individuals become victims of their health conditions, causing them to fall off the journey to sobriety or live near everyday lives by managing their mental disorders through medication. To conquer or manage their mental health status or addiction, self-initiative and determination play a more significant role in conquering condition.
Self-initiative and determination are key factors that act as the driving force for any individual diagnosed with a mental disorder or battling addiction. A recent post from Formica (2010) highlights the importance of these two factors and how individuals are diagnosed with a mental disorder or addiction. By taking up self-responsibility, an individual can beat the compulsive cycle that addiction and mental disorders hold people hostage. By describing the power of free will, the author can unpack how various intervention programs, such as the 12-step and AA, have either failed or worked successfully for people who enrolled to beat their alcohol addiction. Free will and self-determination are the main factors that push and allow one to go through the programs. Taking responsibility for their actions and needs allows them to understand the importance of the programs which support the process of breaking that addiction cycle. While addictions and mental health disorders are not conditions we wish to have, they are attributes of our circumstances that can or cannot be prevented (Stein, 2012). To initiate the healing process, the need to accept and employ the inner self towards the recovery or healing process; no program or medication is guaranteed to give the desired results to the person.
The choice to become a better individual lies within the inner self. Which employs attributes such as responsibility, acceptance, determination, and initiative, to mention a few. All these factors build the drive that an individual will require to stay consistent during the process by adhering to the required instructions. For people battling addiction, taking responsibility for their actions, including identifying trigger environments, means that they become aware of people and situations that promote the need to partake or engage in alcohol or other addictive drugs. Awareness of one’s emotions serves as a way of taking responsibility, encouraging one to avid conversions, people, or even places that act as trigger points to their mental status. Without determination, relapse will occur even after enrolling in relevant programs that seek to support one through healing and recovery.
Research on evidence-based strategies for mental disorders and addiction treatments in medicine has allowed for increased interventions. Even with evidence-based strategies, relapse cases continue to exist, as Formica (2010) highlights in his post about taking responsibility and the power of free will toward available resources. The responsibility of relapse is majorly dependent on the individual. Acknowledging the shortage of healthcare professionals who offer professional support during the healing process. The decision still lies with the individual undergoing the process, their willingness to put into action all incentives shared by the professionals, and implementing important aspects of the resources. The existence of relapse cases will continue to exist despite available free resources. Interpreting relapse cases influenced by a lack of medical and professional assistance can be said to affect the individual in the beginning stages of diagnosis and treatment phases. As Zaidi (2020) discussed, the role of social support shows how this influences relapse in individuals with addiction. While many factors can lead to relapse, it is essential to note the professional healthcare providers’ role during the healing and recovery process.
As designated guides on the recovery process, their lack or shortage of support greatly influences the rise or fall of relapse cases. Some resources have been made available at no cost for individuals battling mental or addiction health crises. It is upon an individual to explore relevant resources to initiate their recovery or healing process. Enrolling in free resources such as mental boot camps, AA, rehabilitation centres, 12 step recovery programs allows one to seek professional assistance without incurring any cost. Through these free resources, one can access the appropriate medical assistance and attention to initiate the process of recovery. The critical step is deciding to begin the recovery or treatment process. Through these programs, one is assured of getting relevant and professional guidance that will allow them to understand their mental and addiction cycles, integrating the lessons learned to improve their lives in general (Kelly, Humphreys, et al. 2020). The successful recovery or relapse depends on access to medical resources and the scarcity of healthcare professionals. This can be considered a valid statement viewed from an overview perspective of general healthcare conditions around the state and country. Acknowledging the individual’s role in implementing the process is essential despite the limiting factors. The use of the available free resources shows that there is a possibility for one to enroll and make use of the resources as they are and therefore gain similar assistance since professionals in their respective fields conduct all programs. With the newly found information about relapse due to medical access and lack of healthcare professionals, future studies should be conducted to highlight the role of an individual in breaking addiction behaviors and managing mental disorders.
In conclusion, opioid use has commonly been known as an inner-city and urban challenge. Nevertheless, the increased prevalence of opioid and drug use disorders and substance-linked mortality in different communities shows a growing global recognition of drug and other substance use problems. Mental health disorders and addiction often result in alcohol and drug dependency, schizophrenia, depression, and anxiety. Most health institutions and drug rehab centers currently utilize different evidence-based treatment that is personalized in various means to assist patients in recovering from addiction. Various factors influence the management of mental health disorders among the population. Different challenges and factors that hinder the successful recovery of patients include healthcare professional shortages and the increased cost of Medicare. The government directives for people to adhere to social distancing to reduce the spread of coronavirus largely changed the drug use patterns, such as higher rates of drug additions in isolation, thus, increasing the risk of a fatal overdose. By taking up self-responsibility, an individual can beat the compulsive cycle that addiction and mental disorders hold people hostage. While describing the power of free will, the author can unpack how various intervention programs, such as the 12-step and AA, have either failed or worked successfully for people who enrolled to beat their alcohol addiction.
Reference
Angrisani, M., Atella, V., & Brunetti, M. (2018). Public health insurance and household portfolio Choices: Unravelling financial “Side Effects” of Medicare. Journal of banking & finance, 93, 198-212.
Edwards, E., Janney, C. A., Mancuso, A., Rollings, H., VanDenToorn, A., DeYoung, M., & Eastburg, M. (2020). Preparing for the behavioral health impact of COVID-19 in Michigan. Current Psychiatry Reports, 22(12), 1-19.
Formica, M. J. (2010). Addiction, self-responsibility, and the importance of choice. Psychology Today.Haddad, L. M., Annamaraju, P., & Toney-Butler, T. J. (2022). Nursing shortage. In StatPearls [Internet]. StatPearls Publishing.
Heun-Johnson, H., Menchine, M., Goldman, D., & Seabury, S. (2018). The COST of mental illness: Illinois FACTS and FIGURES. Schaeffer Center for health policy & economics
Kelly, J. F., Humphreys, K., & Ferri, M. (2020). Alcoholics Anonymous and other 12 step programs for Alcohol use disorder. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, (3).
McCance-Katz, E. F. (2018). The substance abuse and mental health services administration (SAMHSA): new directions. Psychiatric services, 69(10), 1046-1048.
Michling, T. (2020, August 13). Michigan falls short on Mental Health Services. Citizens Research Council of Michigan
National Alliance on Mental Illness (n.d). Mental Health in Michigan:https://www.nami.org/NAMI/media/NAMI-Media/StateFactSheets/MichiganStateFactSheet.pdf.
Stein, S. (2012). Addiction or excuse? Psychology Today.
Zaidi, U. (2020). Role of social support in relapse prevention for drug addicts. International Journal of Innovation, Creativity, and Change, 13(1), 915-24.
Mental Illness In Women Offenders Free Writing Sample
Introduction
Of utmost importance is to assert that the incarceration rates in America increased fivefold from the mid-1970s to the turn of the 21st century. While the rates have stabilized and declined slightly since this period, incarceration remains a relatively common aspect for the poor and minority groups in the nation (Turney & Goodsell, 2018). In this light, women represent the fastest-growing sect of the incarcerated population. An epitome is that between 1980 and 1997, the rate of females in American prisons increased by around 573%, double the rate for males (Ilieva-Petkova, 2016). In 2011, the number of women offenders was around 103674, representing 6.7% of the total incarcerated population. In 2013, the number rose to around 111300. Conversely, female inmates tend to possess disproportionately low educational levels, low income and even high levels of mental illnesses like substance abuse. According to Wood (2019), female inmates possess increasingly higher levels of mental health disorders when compared to males, particularly in personality and mood disorders, risk of suicide, PTSD and psychotic disorders. It is, therefore, the aim of this essay to determine why evidence depicts a higher level of mental health issues for female offenders, the factors that are most significant for the higher rates of mental illness and the ideal treatment regimen for this special population. Moreover, the aspect of fostering positive mother-to-child linkages when the former is incarcerated and the appropriate reintegration methods will also be discussed.
Pathways to Jail for female Offenders and the Link with Mental Health
When taking into account the varying factors responsible for gender differences when it comes to mental health issues among American prisoners, it is critical to comprehend that the pathways to prison often differ significantly between men and women. In this light, women are more likely than men to indicate a background of physical, emotional and sexual abuse prior to their criminality (Wood, 2019). Moreover, the psychological, physical and sexual victimization in females tends to affect offending directly. The implication is that females might fall into varying crime pathways in response to traumatic experiences. Consequently, it poses a negative impact on the mental illness of women offenders. According to Ilieva-Petkova (2016), almost 6 in every ten women in American state prisons have experienced physical or sexual abuse in the past. By being a victim of abuse, the females get pre-disposed to many mental health issues like depression, anxiety and other forms of emotional disorders. Still, on the trauma issues, Lynch et al. (2013) assert that most incarcerated females possess trauma-linked mental illness that is either unrecognized or misdiagnosed, which consequently translates to inadequate treatment. Some female inmates stipulate that they wish to talk about their trauma directly but never get the opportunity. From their perspective, this leads to negative emotions that revolve around low self-worth and extreme frustration. Others feel that they get prescribed unnecessary regimens that end up numbing their pain while ignoring the issue’s root. It calls for better assessment measures and treatment.
Moreover, other females, especially the low-income/low-educated ones, end up self-medicating through alcohol and other drugs. For most of these, drugs effectively serve as the sole panacea to numb the feeling of pain, worthlessness and helplessness. The moment they enter the vicious cycle of addiction, their chances of interacting with the criminal justice framework rise significantly. The reasons for incarceration are linked to intoxication in public spaces, driving under the influence, theft, prostitution or even the possession/distribution of illegal substances (Ilieva-Petkova, 2016). Still, evidence depicts that American law enforcement and sentencing practices and policies tend to dramatically and disproportionately affect women. However, the facts also illustrate that 1 in every three women serving time in prison self-reported that they engaged in an offence in the quest to obtain finances to support their needs.
Treatment Plans Available
Gender-specific treatment initiatives are the key to reducing mental health issues and recidivism in female offenders. Ilieva-Petkova (2016) asserts that targeting women offenders’ unique treatment obligations will lead to more favourable outcomes concerning the problem behaviours like dependency, substance abuse and recidivism. The recommendations available revolve around treating issues linked to sexuality, low self-esteem and the treatment of sexual abuse, together with co-existing psychiatric disorders. Notably, a cognitive-behavioural intervention for mental health issues in incarcerated women would be critical. Wood (2019) supports this by asserting that three-quarters or higher of cognitive behavioural therapy intervention participants stipulate that it assisted them in dealing with traumatic symptoms, substance use, coping skills, and even fostering feelings of safety. In-prison programs should also strive to incorporate treatment modalities like case management, therapeutic communities, drug education and individual counselling. This can cater to the pathways of females associated with incarceration.
While the prison might never be the optimum context for female offenders to deal with their trauma-linked mental health issues, there are resources to foster better adaptation. For instance, reflecting on positive adaptation occurs through psychological resilience. Wood (2019) asserts that psychological resilience can impact the mental health of imprisoned females leading to better psychological well-being. For instance, they can better adapt in prison and, at the same time, reduce the negative aspects linked to incarceration.
Fostering Positive Mother/Child Linkages
Most incarcerated females are typically parents to children that are under 18 years. Miller (2021) asserts that, unlike most males who commit crimes, most incarcerated mothers possess sole custody of their children and often plan to resume the parenting role after release. Notably, the average incarcerated woman has around 2.5 children (Miller, 2021). Considering the adversities faced by children of incarcerated parents, there is an urgent need to foster and implement initiatives to address the inequalities between these children and others. In this light, Turney & Goodsell (2018) assert that initiatives designed for incarcerated mothers strive to enhance the parenting knowledge of the mother. The curricula, therefore, combine objectives like enhancing mental well-being, communication, child development, attitudes towards parenting, discipline and even behaviour management. Professionals facilitating these in incarcerated mothers ensure that both the mother and child benefit from the improved relationship.
Re-integrating Female Offenders
Female offenders re-entering society face similar and unique challenges compared to males. Miller (2021) stipulates that compared to males, females are significantly regular drug users, economically disadvantaged, and are also victims of maltreatment and abuse. This way, they are more likely to suffer from co-occurring disorders while also having custody over children. Therefore, gender-responsive programming that starts with an assessment of individual needs and risks while considering gender-specific variables is essential. Specifically, cognitive behavioural therapy, mutual support groups and all-female group sessions come in handy in programming for females linked to the criminal justice framework. Integrated treatment for co-occurring disorders also fosters effective reentry and integration. Other strategies revolve around therapeutic communities, focus on aftercare, medication-assisted treatment, peer recovery support, housing assistance, employment and skills training (Miller, 2021).
Conclusion
In summary, trauma-linked mental health is a prevalent issue in female offenders; therefore, treatment should be tailored to this population’s unique needs. The essay strived to delve into why female offenders have higher mental illnesses, what effective treatment plans are available, how professionals can facilitate positive mother/child linkages and even the appropriate strategies for reentry and integration. The varying stakeholders at the state and federal levels should strive to implement gender-specific initiatives in the quest to improve the outcomes of this population.
References
Ilieva-Petkova, M. (2016). Examining gender specific treatment programs in women’s prisons. Eastern Michigan University. https://commons.emich.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=2048&context=theses
Lynch, S. M., DeHart, D. D., Belknap, J., & Green, B. L. (2013). Women’s pathways to jail: Examining mental health, trauma, and substance use. Bureau of Justice Assistance. http://ncdsv.org/images/BJA_WomensPathwaysToJail_3-2013.pdf
Miller, H. V. (2021). Female Reentry and Gender-Responsive Programming: Recommendations for Policy and Practice. Corrections Today. www. ojp. gov/pdffiles1/nij/300931. pdf. https://nij.ojp.gov/topics/articles/female-reentry-and-gender-responsive-programming#9dwdqd
Turney, K., & Goodsell, R. (2018). Parental incarceration and children’s well-being. The Future of Children, 28(1), 147–164. https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/EJ1179185.pdf
Wood, R. (2019). THE TRAUMA-RELATED MENTAL HEALTH ISSUES OF FEMALE PRISONERS: THE NEED FOR TRAUMA-SPECIFIC INTERVENTION. A REVIEW OF THE LITERATURE. https://www.divaportal.org/smash/get/diva2:1486261/FULLTEXT01.pdf
Microsoft Corporation Analysis Free Writing Sample
Introduction
Microsoft continues to make substantial progress in computer software production while investing in the stock exchange to position the organization for continued expansion. Microsoft Corporation identifies the most important problems based on its macro- or remote environment (Kang, 2013). By taking into account the situation of the computer hardware and software market, Microsoft can implement strategies that address these issues and the related external factors. However, the organization must improve to give it a better competitive advantage and make more profits.
Environmental Scan
General Environment
The general environment consists of the economy, cultural trends, political/legal trends, and technological trends.
Economic:
The company has made a substantial impact on the local as well as the international economy. In the fiscal year 2022, Microsoft produced record results despite the fast-paced climate. $198 billion in sales and $83 billion in operating income were recorded. Furthermore, Microsoft Cloud’s yearly revenue reached $100 billion for the first time. Moreover, the organization has made substantial improvements in the stock exchange market, as there were 86,465 registered holders of record of our common stock as of July 25, 2022. Under the ticker symbol MSFT, Microsoft’s common stock is traded on the NASDAQ Stock Market (Hakobyan et al., 2019). On September 20, 2016, the Board of Directors endorsed a share repurchase program permitting purchases of up to $40.0 billion. The share repurchase program began in December 2016 and ran until February 2020.
Moreover, the Board of Directors authorized a share repurchase program on September 14, 2021, with a $60.0 billion maximum. This share repurchase program has no set end date and may be discontinued at any moment. It started in November 2021 after the previous program, authorized on September 18, 2019, was finished.
Socio-cultural:
The company’s culture is the cornerstone of the organization’s mission and strategies, so fostering it is of utmost importance to us. Microsoft continuously strives to bridge the gap between the lived experiences of the more than 220,000 Microsoft employees and our avowed culture. This requires our dedication to practicing a growth mindset consistently and challenging our fixed thinking with humility, curiosity, compassion, and the understanding that, while none of us will ever be flawless, we can continuously improve (Hakobyan et al., 2019). This growth attitude has been quite helpful to us through the historical developments of the last few years. It keeps the company engaged in the daily fascination with customers. It enables us to better look out for one another and work together more successfully as a team. Moreover, it significantly impacts our long-standing dedication to diversity and inclusion.
We must represent the world if we are to serve it. Microsoft works hard to broaden representation each year, and 2022 was no exception. As seen in our most recent Diversity and Inclusion Report, we made the most significant strides in several demographic groupings in recent years (Hakobyan et al., 2019). Regarding the data we publish, we are among the most open businesses of our size, and we constantly push ourselves to get more insight into our accomplishments and areas in need of improvement. To reflect our workforce more generally, we have incorporated new data, such as military status, gender representation by region, worker exits, and extra compensation data.
Political:
Due to the political stability of most markets around the world, Microsoft has the chance to improve its investments and evaluation measures (Warner, 2019). For example, the company could increase its European sales and marketing spending to get a comparable increase in revenue. On the other hand, because of the increased official support for automation, Microsoft may be able to increase its sales of computer technology to governmental customers. This external component is crucial when it comes to large deals involving governmental organizations. A macro-environment that encourages an increase in Microsoft’s overall sales is also created by the proliferation of international trade deals (Hakobyan et al., 2019). Due to this external element, the corporation finds it less difficult to conduct business in international markets. However, Microsoft is also threatened by the expansion of international trade agreements. These agreements may enable foreign businesses to compete more successfully in industrialized nations like the US.
Technological:
The quick introduction of new mobile devices can improve the performance of Microsoft Corporation. The rapid adoption and rising demand for mobile technology caused this development. However, the challenge posed by this external technological factor fosters competition with Microsoft. Such an opportunity might be seized by other technology businesses looking to enter the sector (Hakobyan et al., 2019). On the other hand, as the number of online transactions increases, Microsoft may be able to develop new technologies that support secure transaction processing. The risk that Microsoft would see a corresponding surge in cybercrime attacks owing to the volume of online transactions is addressed in Microsoft’s SWOT Analysis. Solutions that aid businesses in automating more of their processes also allow the company to grow.
Legal:
Microsoft Corporation has the opportunity to create more efficient recycling and disposal techniques that enhance brand awareness as electronic waste disposal laws increase. However, there is a potential that this external legal threat will make it harder for the company to address the environmental impact of its operations. On the other hand, the evolving patent laws support Microsoft’s international growth by progressively eliminating problems like computer software piracy (Hakobyan et al., 2019). The business has the chance to improve its products so that it can assist client organizations in using more energy-efficient computing techniques to decrease their energy usage.
Task Environment
| Competitors | Many other well-known organizations deal with the production of the same technology, just like Microsoft Corporation. Some of these firms are the biggest rivalries of Microsoft, and they include; Apple (AAPL), Google (GOOG), SAP SE (SAP), IBM (IBM), and Oracle (ORCL), which are among those on the list. |
| Employees | According to information in the company’s annual Form 10K filing with the SEC, Microsoft had 221,000 workers as of June 30. This is an increase of 40,000 persons or 22% over the same period the previous year. |
| Customers | Just a few of Microsoft’s customers include private individuals, small and medium-sized businesses, enterprises, governmental organizations, academic institutions, Internet companies, application developers, and manufacturers of original equipment. Consumers and small and medium-sized businesses from distributors, resellers, and OEMs primarily obtain Microsoft’s products. |
| Suppliers | Microsoft has relationships with a huge number of suppliers throughout the world, including those that produce our products and their components (hardware and packaging suppliers) and those that transport the goods between distributors and retail establishments (logistics providers). |
Many other well-known organizations deal with the production of the same technology, just like Microsoft Corporation. Some of these firms are the biggest rivalries of Microsoft, and they include; Apple (AAPL), Google (GOOG), SAP SE (SAP), IBM (IBM), and Oracle (ORCL), which are among those on the list. Given that it is a diversified company that offers a wide range of products and services, Microsoft faces intense competition in several crucial areas of the technology sector (Sehgal et al., 2020).
According to the company’s most recent report, one striking result of the expansion is that Microsoft now employs more individuals in operations—about 85,000 workers as of June 30—than in product research and development—about 73,000 employees. Up until around two years ago, the size of the two employment categories inside the organization was comparable. Ninety-nine thousand people work for the corporation outside of the US after 21,000 new overseas hires, a 27% increase over the previous year. The corporation increased its domestic workforce by 19,000 workers, or 18%, bringing the total to 122,000 in the United States.
Just a few of Microsoft’s customers include private individuals, small and medium-sized businesses, enterprises, governmental organizations, academic institutions, Internet companies, application developers, and manufacturers of original equipment. Consumers and small and medium-sized businesses from distributors, resellers, and OEMs primarily obtain Microsoft’s products (Sehgal et al., 2020).
Microsoft has relationships with a huge number of suppliers throughout the world, including those that produce our products and their components (hardware and packaging suppliers) and those that transport the goods between distributors and retail establishments (logistics providers). All vendors that work with Microsoft are expected to uphold the standards outlined in our Microsoft Supplier Code of Conduct in human rights, labor, health and safety, protection of the environment, and ethical behavior (Sehgal et al., 2020).
SWOT Analysis
| Strengths (internal) | Weaknesses (Internal) | Opportunities
(External) |
Threats (External) |
| -It is the leading
software company recognized worldwide.
–Microsoft is the largest organization with a dominant market share.
–It has a massive market.
–It has experienced constant growth for over three decades.
-It is one of the most reputed brands with millions of loyal customers.
-Has an effective advertising platform. |
–Overexposure to the PC market leading to price fluctuations.
–Cybercrime theft.
– In the Internet browser segment, there needs to be more market leadership.
–Complains of unfair business practices.
–The insufficiency of innovation. |
–Cloud business growth.
-Easy acquiring of partnerships and acquisitions.
-Cost leadership strategy.
-Provision of remote workstations.
-Innovation and artificial intelligence. |
–Criticism associated with the workforce.
–Gay reference controversies.
–High aggressive competition from other companies.
–Changes in consumer preferences.
-Upcoming open source projects.
– Anti-encryption drive. |
Strengths
One of the significant strengths of Microsoft Corporation is that it is one of the leading software companies worldwide that is easy to use. Without question, Microsoft is the market leader for software worldwide, notably in cloud computing (Sehgal et al., 2020). It is the largest and best cloud provider worldwide for Windows OS. Azure, Office 365, and Dynamics 365, offer for-pay cloud services. Microsoft Teams’ daily active users increased from 44 million to 75 million in just six weeks during the third quarter of the fiscal year 2020 and by 110% over the previous four months. The company with the highest market share is classified as the second-biggest firm in the world, depending on market share value. Microsoft’s extensive market reach is another asset. Microsoft operates in more than 190 countries worldwide (Business Strategy Hub, 2022). Additionally, Microsoft Corporation has expanded consistently for more than three decades. Microsoft’s most current financial data blatantly show the company’s meteoric rise in the cloud sector. Investor’s Business Daily estimates that Microsoft’s value might reach $2 trillion by 2022.
With millions of devoted customers, it is also one of the most well-known companies. There are 1.2 billion Office users globally, and about 60 million organizations utilize Office 365. Its customer base is the biggest and most committed. Customers continue to utilize the brand because they trust it. Last but not least, Microsoft Corporation has a powerful advertising platform. Microsoft’s effective marketing strategies have had an impact on individuals all around the world. The message of a television ad that ran in July resonated with people worldwide.
Weaknesses
The overexposure of the PC market, which causes price swings, is one of Microsoft Corporation’s primary disadvantages. PC shipping levels often decrease due to vendor price hikes and currency fluctuations. As a result, Microsoft is currently in a vulnerable position. Additionally, the business is extremely vulnerable to thefts and cybercrime attacks. Because of the increase in cybercrime incidents, Microsoft is now more vulnerable. According to reports, hackers have frequently tried to undermine the security of the Windows Operating System. The business does not command the market for Internet browsers (Business Strategy Hub, 2022). Microsoft is losing customers as Google, Safari, and Firefox continue to gain market share in the internet browser arena. The top 10 web browsers for 2018 did not include Microsoft’s Internet Explorer and Edge.
Additionally, the business receives allegations of unethical commercial tactics. Microsoft was accused of engaging in anti-competitive activity in Europe by Slack Technologies. An appeal by Improved Search LLC, which has the authority to lodge a case against Microsoft for infringing a patent on search engine software, is now being examined by a federal appellate court in the US (Business Strategy Hub, 2022). Last but not least, the company requires further technological breakthroughs. Microsoft has needed help boosting the sales of its hardware products, including the Surface Pro smartphones and desktop computers. It has not kept up with innovation while companies like Apple, Google, and Amazon are fast blazing new technical roads.
Opportunities
One of the possibilities for Microsoft Corporation to investigate is the expansion of the cloud industry. In recent years, it has experienced significant growth and expansion of its cloud-based services. Microsoft now has the chance to grow its cloud computing business. In May 2020, Microsoft announced the launch of a new version of its cloud-based software tailored for healthcare organizations. In 2020, Longhurst et al. Additionally, the company can leverage the potential for straightforward mergers and acquisitions to grow. Microsoft might concentrate on forging new strategic relationships and partnerships. The business will be able to increase its market share as a result. Microsoft will find it advantageous to acquire significant high-tech companies. Coca-Cola awarded Microsoft a five-year deal in April 2020 to provide business software.
The cost leadership approach is a chance for the company to grow. Microsoft can boost sales and revenue by offering its products at competitive pricing. It might also prevent hackers from abusing its software. Additionally, the business can use the chance to offer remote workspaces. Recent events have increased the demand for goods that enable people to work virtually from anywhere in the world or at home (Longhurst et al., 2020). Microsoft Teams, the company’s remote working platform, will have 75 million subscribers by April 2020, making it the market leader. Thanks to income from Teams, Microsoft surpassed quarterly forecasts for Q2 of 2020. It can greatly benefit Teams’ long-term development. The company can also use the chance to boost its creativity and invest in artificial intelligence. Microsoft has immense potential in several cutting-edge industries, such as artificial intelligence and gaming technologies. By investing in these areas, Microsoft might get the upper hand.
Threats
Criticism pertaining to the company’s workers poses a danger to Microsoft Corporation. Data from 2018 on workplace diversity shows that Microsoft’s hired labor was not distributed fairly. The company’s human resources strategy has been scrutinized for not hiring enough women and people of color. The controversy around the LGBT reference is another risk. Microsoft’s Xbox Live gaming network has drawn much criticism. The corporation forbids references to homosexuality and gays because they consider them to be “inappropriate” and “provoking” for other players (Longhurst et al., 2020). Additionally, emerging and established businesses with outstanding inventions provide the corporation with fierce rivalry. Microsoft engages in severe competition with Google and Apple. These companies’ strong market positions can make Microsoft’s market share vulnerable. In June 2020, Google expanded its competitiveness for remote work by integrating video-call options, editing capabilities, and other tools in Gmail to lure consumers away from Microsoft.
The company must also worry about evolving customer tastes and increased open-source initiatives. Smartphone, notepad, and laptop markets are all highly well-liked. Microsoft’s share of these markets is relatively small. The market has seen the successful entry of numerous new open-source projects that provide similar services for free, similar to Linux OS and Open-Source Office (Longhurst et al., 2020). Microsoft’s premium pricing for these goods may pose a danger. The anti-encryption drive is an additional danger. The removal of consumer encryption technology, which provides child sex predators free rein online, is under criticism from governments and child welfare organizations. Microsoft and other internet firms are under pressure as well. Despite the standardization of the exposure of the offenders that Microsoft and other industry giants had pledged, many authorities and child welfare organizations still want more.
Recommendations
If Microsoft wants to maintain its position as the leading software producer, it must enhance its areas of weakness and make use of its potential chances. Microsoft Corporation needs to innovate while also updating its software. Microsoft must make substantial adjustments to some of its products to compete with its rivals, who are coming up with new strategies and inventions to embrace the future of creativity appropriately. Therefore, to protect the company’s competitive edge, Microsoft has to be more innovative in its software production (Microsoft, 2022). It should also continually improve the brand’s reputation by using powerful marketing strategies. By structured cabling cloud-based solutions, Microsoft’s marketing plan seeks to grow business for its corporate clients. Microsoft should use a combination of demographic and behavioral market segments to split the market into several groups with linked qualities to strengthen its brand.
The business needs to upgrade its internet browser market and take steps to get market share in this industry. Microsoft has a poor internet browser that lacks market leadership and should strive to improve its internet browser and get shares in some powerful browsers such as chrome. In order to compete with tech rivals like Google and Apple, the organization should develop more competitive advantages, improve its market position, and increase collaborations, strategic alliances, and mergers (Argyriou et al.,2020). The mergers and partnerships will increase Microsoft’s shares in different companies, enabling it to expand its brand and improve its profits. Lastly, the company can address worldwide cyber thefts and resolve cybersecurity challenges by improving its security network systems. By doing this, the organization will be able to solve the cybersecurity challenges that are facing the company.
References
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Longhurst, G. J., Stone, D. M., Dulohery, K., Scully, D., Campbell, T., & Smith, C. F. (2020). Strength, weakness, opportunity, threat (SWOT) analysis of the adaptations to anatomical education in the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland in response to the Covid‐19 pandemic. Anatomical sciences education, 13(3), 301–311.
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Sehgal, G., Kee, D. M. H., Low, A. R., Chin, Y. S., Woo, E. M. Y., Lee, P. F., & Almutairi, F. (2020). Corporate social responsibility: A case study of Microsoft Corporation. Asia Pacific Journal of Management and Education (APJME), 3(1), 63–71.
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