Final Reflection

The most formative experience for me was interviewing complete strangers. Once I did it once it started to become much easier to do so the next time. It gave me the confidence to do almost anything that should come my way now. Very thankful for the exercise as it has completely changed my life for the better.

Fortunately, for me, I have already had experience as an entrepreneur. This class has taught me a lot of business practices that I did not use prior to taking this class. I especially enjoyed the different worksheets and list of things to look for and do prior to starting a business.

Future students need to be tenacious and keep up with the assignments that are due each week. Read ahead to make sure they have adequate time to complete each assignment. I would suggest that they keep the end in mind. If you want a good grade all you have to do is the assignments.

Venture Concept No. 2

Opportunity

My opportunity would be for service employees in the Central Florida area. From there I would like to start the opportunity in all the major cities in Florida, with plans to work into the entire state of Florida if the opportunity is a success. That would include employees that work for a restaurant, hotel, resort, bar, nightclub, lounge or any business that requires an employee to provide service to a customer. Yes, it would be open to all service employees, though some employees might not find the need for the opportunity that I am providing. The opportunity is for those potential employees to have a voice when it comes to wages and fair employment acts. Such as being wrongfully disciplined or discharged from a position without merit. Also, the opportunity will provide benefits to the clients, such as health and life insurance as well as vacation and sick time off paid.  The changes in the work environment for this opportunity is that the employees will be more at ease working because of the backing they will receive if they make a small mistake at work and find themselves unduly disciplined and/or discharged for such a minor offense. There is not a service of this caliber currently in the state of Florida. I believe if this opportunity were a success that the clients would be very faithful to it and stay with the opportunity for the length of their working career. (in the service industry) This opportunity would be very large as there are thousands of service employees within the state of Florida, being that Florida is one of the largest states for tourism and catering to others. The window for this opportunity will always be open as there is always a need for helping others.

Innovation

My business will be a great benefit to service employees. It is to Unionize the service industry. It will give them some backing when it comes to disputes with an employer as well as making sure that the employees are treated fairly with fair compensation and benefits for the position they are in. This will ensure the clients that they have a voice and do not need to walk on pins and needles (so to speak) while working which in turn will help them to concentrate on the job at hand. They will know that if for any reason they are disciplined or discharged for a minor offense that they will have someone to turn to for help and that help can go to the employer and come to an understanding that could possibly turn the events around and benefit both the employer and the employee. The cost of the Union would be fair and even across the board. No one person would have to pay more than any other. To start with there would be an initial fee to join the Union of $100. Then each client would pay a maintenance fee each month of $35.

Venture Concept

They would care because the state of Florida is a “Right-to-work” state. Which means that one can be fired or released for any reason what so ever. As a Union employee one would have protection from such actions. The service would provide leverage for the employee to stand up to the employer and demand a valid reason or force the employer to reinstate the employee. Employees want fair wages and benefits. I believe many of the service employees would want this type of service to themselves. Getting them to sign up might be a little difficult at first because of the fear of retaliation from the employers. The employers are not going to like the idea that they can no longer have the right to discipline an employee any way they see fit. They will lose some of their control over employees and will not like the change. Change is always scary to people, especially corporations that see it as a direct blow to their working culture and business. No one like others to tell them how to operate their business. The roles in this type of opportunity would change with the business itself. As the business grew so would the roles such as new management for new areas.

The overall response to my Venture was very positive. People liked the idea of unionizing the service industry. A few people question the validity of the venture, they thought that as Florida is a right - to – work state and that I would need to go to the government level to get that changed. I do not feel as that would need to be done as long as the union is valid and ethical. It would be great if that were to happen, though. On second thought maybe I would lobby the government to get that law changed as a side project.

My venture did not change from the feedback, just added to what I would want to do further down the road.

Elevator Pitch No. 4

Week 14 Reading Reflection

 The biggest surprise for me came in chapter 4, “Ecopreneurship”. I was not aware of the great lengths entrepreneurs were taking to help combat global issues. In particular, global warming. I feel as I am being short sided to this issue as it is one of the major concerns in the world today. I am glad to see that some are taking this concern and incorporating it into their business practices and also into what they are offering others through their businesses.

The most confusing part of the reading came in chapter 3, “Preparing for Failure”. I can understand having an exit strategy in place, but to prepare for failure, indicates (to me) that you have failed before you have even begun.

I would ask the author to write another book and expand on each section. It seems to me that there is a lot of information missing throughout the book that could be expanded on. I do however like the charts and tables that are provided in the book. I usually resell my text books at the end of a semester, but I am going to keep this one for future references, because of all the charts and tables it provides.

I have no authority to disagree with anything the author has written about in this book. Maybe later on in my studies as I pursue my doctorate degree in business I might have some insight into something that is not quite correct. Like I said prior I am going to keep this book for all it great information.

Google Gold

I would say that the single most important item that I did to ensure SEO was to include my URL in each comment I left on other blogs.

My keyword was “Dallin”, it was in every blog post as well as every comment on others blogs. Unfortunately, for me, I never changed my keyword. I guess I miss the part where we were to do so.

I did not use social media to enhance my SEO. I did send a link to several friends to get some feedback. The feedback I did receive from them was good and informative.

Honestly, I cannot get any search for my blog to come up. I might have used a name that is too popular as my title. “DJ’s” It seems to just pull up all the disc jockeys that are on the net, which is a lot.

I cannot even find my blog, other than actually typing in the address. I guess I failed at this part of the class.

Very Short Interview, Part 2

I believe my first interview to be very general in the questions that I asked. They were good questions but very general, especially after a semester in this class.

These answers came via email:

1. Have you ever thought of franchising your business?  No, I don’t think that RE flipping is something that is franchisable.

2. Have you evaluated your business?  Yes, not sure if you mean financially or generally speaking.  We evaluate our business goals, objectives and direction weekly in our business meetings.  We have a one-year goal (purchase 12 houses in 2016) and short term goals.

3. Do you have an exit strategy?  No, well, actually, we have individual exit strategies in general for our property purchases, but we do not believe in having an exit strategy for the business. We do have a retirement strategy which is to purchase multiple rental properties and to live off the rental income.

I was very comfortable with contacting this entrepreneur again, as I felt that with the first contact I built a good repute with them. I did feel that I was more comfortable speaking their language as the terminology was more attuned to the business at hand. I can only guess that they thought that I had progressed. The conversation went very well. 

Week 13 Reading Reflection

My biggest surprise was the length and in-depth look into a business before acquiring it. The amount of questions and items that one needs to get answered for the “Feasibility Study” is staggering.

I was confused by a number of items it takes to evaluate a business. After reading this chapter it all makes a lot of sense to look into all the different aspects of a business so as to not get hit by an undiscovered item that could potentially become a huge financial burden or cause one to lose the business altogether.

I would ask for more information on the feasibility study. How to get into the different questions and find the details. Like knowing what questions to ask. I would also like to know if there is any other questions that need to be addressed before taking over a business.

I liked the entire chapter. I found it to be very informative and would like to continue looking into the subject of evaluating a business. 

Celebrating Failure

That would be one of the other classes I am taking this semester. I would rather not say which class it is because it is not supposed to be a hard class, but I am just not getting it. I have studied hard for both the last two exams and have not done well on either one. The only thing that is saving my grade is that there is a lot of extra credit. I have one remaining exam and I am going to double my study time as well as getting some help from others, to hopefully get the grade I will be happy with.

I have learned that I am not good at grasping all the subjects that are pertinent to my degree. I do feel bad about this being it is something I should know to further myself in the industry I am wanting to get into.

I dislike failure. I do know that it is part of growing, part of getting to know ones’ weaknesses and strengths. I also know that with constant repetition that one can better themselves in any area of ones’ life. Yes, this class has taught me to take risks and to learn from those risks either good or bad. I have learned a lot about entrepreneurship and also about myself while taking this class, and am truly thankful for it.  

My Exit Strategy

I plan to hand down my venture to another executive. I would like to see it thrive for a while and then move on to some other venture.

I have chosen this “Exit Strategy’ so that I would not be tied up in one particular venture. I would like to start several different ventures and hand them down as they succeed. I am always looking to move on to sometimes bigger and better ideas.

As I have mentioned above I am always looking to venture into different areas of business. Whether it be non-profit or for-profit type businesses. I am sure as the process moves along I to different areas it will get easier to look for and gain resources to move along the process. 

Week 12 Reading Reflection

One of the things that surprised me was the section about the “Growth Wall”. Hitting the growth wall and the themes that are said to come along with it seem, to me, to be a good thing in a business. But I can see where this could possibly be of detriment to any business venture. Fundamental changes such as instant size increases, a sense of infallibility, internal turmoil, and extraordinary resource needs are all somewhat detrimental to a new business, but (in a sense) wanted. It means that things are working and changes are needed to keep up with the growth.

One thing that was confusing to me was the section about the “One-Person-Band Syndrome”. I believe that when a new business starts it is up to the founder/owner (assuming it is only one person) to make all the decisions for the success of the company. Once the business is going and things do need to be delegated elsewhere, then it would be ok.

Again I would like to see more information about the subject dynamics. Where they came up with the conclusions that are written about. The studies would provide more information than is presented in the book. I would like to get the site names and IRL’s of such studies.

I would not disagree with anything that is written by another nor call it incorrect. I most definitely might have a different opinion, but never call another’s writings false. This book is very informative and I look forward to reading the next chapters that are assigned.

Venture Concept No. 1

Opportunity

My opportunity would be for service employees in the Central Florida area. From there I would like to start the opportunity in all the major cities in Florida, with plans to work into the entire state of Florida if the opportunity is a success. That would include employees that work for a restaurant, hotel, resort, bar, nightclub, lounge or any business that requires an employee to provide service to a customer. Yes, it would be open to all service employees, though some employees might not find the need for the opportunity that I am providing. The opportunity is for those potential employees to have a voice when it comes to wages and fair employment acts. Such as being wrongfully disciplined or discharged from a position without merit. Also, the opportunity will provide benefits to the clients, such as health and life insurance as well as vacation and sick time off paid.  The changes in the work environment for this opportunity is that the employees will be more at ease working because of the backing they will receive if they make a small mistake at work and find themselves unduly disciplined and/or discharged for such a minor offense. There is not a service of this caliber currently in the state of Florida. I believe if this opportunity were a success that the clients would be very faithful to it and stay with the opportunity for the length of their working career. (in the service industry) This opportunity would be very large as there are thousands of service employees within the state of Florida, being that Florida is one of the largest states for tourism and catering to others. The window for this opportunity will always be open as there is always a need for helping others.

Innovation

My business will be a great benefit to service employees. It is to Unionize the service industry. It will give them some backing when it comes to disputes with an employer as well as making sure that the employees are treated fairly with fair compensation and benefits for the position they are in. This will ensure the clients that they have a voice and do not need to walk on pins and needles (so to speak) while working which in turn will help them to concentrate on the job at hand. They will know that if for any reason they are disciplined or discharged for a minor offense that they will have someone to turn to for help and that help can go to the employer and come to an understanding that could possibly turn the events around and benefit both the employer and the employee. The cost of the Union would be fair and even across the board. No one person would have to pay more than any other. To start with there would be an initial fee to join the Union of $100. Then each client would pay a maintenance fee each month of $35.

Venture Concept

They would care because the state of Florida is a “Right-to-work” state. Which means that one can be fired or released for any reason what so ever. As a Union employee one would have protection from such actions. The service would provide leverage for the employee to stand up to the employer and demand a valid reason or force the employer to reinstate the employee. Employees want fair wages and benefits. I believe many of the service employees would want this type of service to themselves. Getting them to sign up might be a little difficult at first because of the fear of retaliation from the employers. The employers are not going to like the idea that they can no longer have the right to discipline an employee any way they see fit. They will lose some of their control over employees and will not like the change. Change is always scary to people, especially corporations that see it as a direct blow to their working culture and business. No one like others to tell them how to operate their business. The roles in this type of opportunity would change with the business itself. As the business grew so would the roles such as new management for new areas.

My greatest resource is that there is nothing like this in the state of Florida, where an employee can get backing and actually get some type of leverage to help them. There are other organizations out there, but nothing with any backbone. I believe this business plan fits together well. The only flaw I could see coming up would be that the employees are reluctant to join for fear of retaliation from an employer. Hopefully, they will understand that this is what the service to intended to do away with “Fear” of an employer. The employers will also be against it as it will ultimately set them back financially as well as take some of the power away from them. All in all, the concept is good. (there will always be the fear that comes with going against an employer, especially in this state) I see this venture going statewide and then possibly into other states, especially the right-to-work states where there is no protection for service employees. First along the east coast and then towards the west coast to incorporate the entire nation where this type of opportunity would be of use. This would be the first of many ventures for me. Once this opportunity was started and running on its own, I would venture into more profitable opportunities that I could make a greater financial downfall then this one. This first opportunity is a non-for-profit venture. This would be a perfect starting point for me in that it would not require a whole lot of risk, but the payoff (in particle terms) would be huge. I would be able to learn some very valuable lesson in starting and running this type of venture as my first one. This class is very awesome.  

Week 11 Reading Reflection

I really enjoyed reading about Corning’s rise to a global innovation company and what it has done to contribute to the world's innovations in glass as well as other applications for industrial and commercial processes and technology. I expected no less from a “Harvard Business Review” article.

I was a little confused about the part on “Crowd Sourcing”. I have read a little about the new ways of brainstorming within the internet. I think it is a great opportunity for some applications, but not all. For example: What if you put an idea out for crowdsourcing and then it was stolen by some other person. How would you be able to defend that it was your idea initially?

I would ask for more information about crowdsourcing. I know that is not what the premises of the article is. But I am very interested in learning more about it.

I appreciated the entire article. I for one would never try to discredit an author unless I knew, with certainty, that they were incorrect in their research and writings.

Amazon Whisperer

My revenue drivers would be more service employees signing up for inclusion in the Union I have started. It is pretty straight forward.

I would have to say that the clients would want more and more benefits.

More benefits would greatly enhance the clients experience within the Union. The more benefits offered, the more clients would be willing to sign up.

So since this is a service – based business, I went to Amazon and searched “Union” and some apparel popped up with insignia on it. So I am going with apparel for my next best product.

Customers consider it to be of good quality and good appeal. The only complaints were that some of the customers were sent the wrong item. (team)

I would include my own design to the hoody and make it available in many different colors and fits. Also I would make it available in a ¾ zipper as well as a full zipper.

It is the only thing I can think of that was on Amazon in my search.

My Unfair Advantage

1. My work ethic.
2. My knowledge in the industry.
3. My knowledge and experience in the business world.
4. Entrepreneurship (ENT 3003)
5. Fernando - Business Expert
6. Mary – Market Expert
7. Fred – Supplier
8. New organization
9. Fellowship among clients
10. Relief in knowing that you have somewhere to turn in case of trouble at work.

1. I am a very hard worker and accomplish items I sent my mind too.
2. I have worked in the service industry for several years now and have a fairly good idea of what is needed to start and run a Union.
3. I have many years of management experience and will be able to jump right in and start and run a Union.
4. This class (and schooling) has taught me a lot about how to be tenacity and the will to make things happen, even if I don’t feel it is necessary.
5. Fernando would be a huge asset in running my Union.
6. Mary would be a huge asset in marketing my Union.
7. Fred could help me recruit management for my Union.
8. There is nothing like the Union I want to start in the state of Florida.
9. Once service employees are in the Union they will see that it is all about them and their benefits to be in it.
10. The clients will feel at ease knowing that there will always be somewhere to go and get help in case of a separation or disagreement within their workplace.

My greatest resource is that there is nothing like this in the state of Florida, where an employee can get backing and actually get some type of leverage to help them. There are other organizations out there, but nothing with any backbone.

Week 10 Reading Reflection

This chapter had no surprises for me, it was like reading a refresher course for the finance classes I took a few semesters back. I really like this part of a business, though.

I find math and numbers intriguing and like how they function together to give picture of a business’s overall success/failure.

I would ask the author for a few more of the equations and explanations of the equations that a business owner would use in their statements that are used to balance the books.

To reiterate I like this part of the book, nothing I reads seemed out of place.

Growing My Social Capital

Fernando - Asst. Business Manager – Local Union 606

Business Expert – Has had years of experience with unionization and understands what it takes to run a union.

I googled Unions in the Orlando Area. This particular Union is in Melbourne. I called and asked to talk to a manager and was connected to Fernando. Only wanted to give his first name.

We talked about the need for a Union in the service industry and he explained to me that there is a sort of a movement in this area called “Fight For 15”, I tried contacting this movement with no response.

This person can give me some good advice on what to do and what not to do while setting up the Union.

Mary Garcia – CFO – Organize Now

Market Expert – Has years of union experience (though they are not an actual union) and helps with the marketing of the organization.

Googled Union in the Orlando area. Was connected to Mary as she was the only management in the office this particular day. Which was good for me in that I don’t think I would have been able to talk with her.

She explained to me the nature of the organization and a little about what they do to market to potential clients and other organizations. Also, how they collaborate with the AFL – CIO.

She can give me advice on running a Union and, in particular, the finance side of it.

Fred – Training Coordinator – IATSE, Orlando

Supplier – He trains other to be more productive in a Union and ways in which to cover themselves in any situation.

Google – He is a trainer, would be able to supply trained management for the Union,

Sees that there is a need for a Union in the service Industry and would support such a Union. He also explained to me about how they go about setting up political campaigns to get support for their organization.

He would be a great adviser and be able to guide me to the right people and organizations for support in the process of getting started.

Though I networked over the telephone, I found it to a huge source of contacting people that could help me with expertise in my venture. Yes, this did differ because usually when I network I do it in person, talking on the phone did have certain drawbacks in that I was unable to make personal contact with the person and also being unable to look them in the eye.

My Secret Sauce

My Secret Sauce

The five ways that make me unique are:

1. I grew up on a farm and had to do chores ( hard chores) from a very early age on the small farm at the house. At age 8, I started working on the large farm on the hill. Daily work included moving sprinklers, hauling hay, milking cows. I really appreciated my parents instilling this work ethic into me that keeps driving me today.

2. I will do whatever it takes to complete an assignment or task that I have set my mind too.

3. I have always been able to do my best at an task/job that has been my responsibility yo complete.

4. I have learned to remain calm in a crisis and think clearly when under pressure.

5. I believe that I am a good person and treat all others as equals and fairly.

Interviews:

https://soundcloud.com/dallinus/interview-001-m4a/s-C2GL

This person has known me most of my life and sees that I do what I say I will do. She looks up to me and knows that I am dependable and trustworthy. She also appreciates that I take an interest in her children's lives.

https://soundcloud.com/dallinus/interview-002-m4a/s-pzYxP

This person also looks up to my persistence to do what I set my mind too. She feels that I am accomplishing a lot at an older age. She is happy for me and wishes me luck.

https://soundcloud.com/dallinus/interview-003-m4a/s-lPgF9

This person (though he talks to me as a third person) see that I set goals and do whatever it takes to reach that goal. He also appreciates that I do what I say I will do. And he finds me dependable and trustworthy.

https://soundcloud.com/dallinus/interview-004-m4a/s-Z853e

This is my 82-year-old stepmother. I find this quite funny. Had to include it.

https://soundcloud.com/dallinus/interview-005-m4a/s-hykQj

This is my niece. Did not have much to say other than she is proud that I am in school and trying to improve my life. She looks up to me, which I like.

https://soundcloud.com/dallinus/interview-006-m4a/s-z9Dtp

This person sees that I work hard for what I want. Again, is proud that I have returned to school to improve my life. He looks up to me as well.

I have the advantage of more years that most and am very cognitive of myself and my attributes. (human capital) All the people I interviewed see me as I see myself. This is because I live my life externally as I am inwardly. I mirror my soul.

Idea Napkin No. 2

Idea Napkin No. 2

Week 9

I am an entrepreneur. I have started and successfully operated several businesses. I plan on working in the executive offices of a large and prosperous corporation. The business I have conceptually planned will be of great benefit to service employees of the Orlando, Central Florida, and eventually Florida area. Unfortunately, this will not have any impact on my life as I will be moving on to graduate school and will not be able to work it into a valid business.

My business will be a great benefit to service employees. It is to Unionize the service industry. It will give them some backing when it comes to disputes with an employer as well as making sure that the employees are treated fairly with fair compensation and benefits for the position they are in. (The first point I took from the feedback was that I did not mention that this is an idea to form a Union)

The service will be offered to all service employees in the Orlando area. If the service does well, it will be offered to service employees in the state of Florida.

They would care because the state of Florida is a “Right-to-work” state. Which means that one can be fired or released for any reason what so ever. As a Union employee one would have protection from such actions. The service would provide leverage for the employee to stand up to the employer and demand a valid reason or force the employer to reinstate the employee. Employees want fair wages and benefits. (The second item I took from the feedback was to present the information in a way that the service employees would be able to see the benefits of joining a Union) (Third, to convince the employees that they would be protected from their employees invalidated actions)

This is a service that is not available to the service industry in Florida. This would be the only service provider in the state. The Unionization of service employees would give them a voice and protection from adverse actions of an employer. (The fourth and fifth items I took from the feedback was letting the employees know of the benefits they would be getting and also that they would not be alone in this as I would gather numerous other employees to join before starting the Union)

I believe this business plan fits together well. The only flaw I could see coming up would be that the employees are reluctant to join for fear of retaliation from an employer. Hopefully, they will understand that this is what the service to intended to do away with “Fear” of an employer. The employers will also be against it as it will ultimately set them back financially as well as take some of the power away from them. All in all, the concept is good. (there will always be the fear that comes with going against an employer, especially in this state)

Week 8 Reading Reflection

Weekly Reading

The number of resources for investing is numerous. I knew of a few but not all. It was great to read about Venture Capitalists and the criteria for obtaining resources from them was very informative. Angels investors are also very intriguing to read about. I was not aware of their existence until the information that was provided in the book.

It took a while for me to fully understand the process that it takes to acquire a lot of the different ways to gain capital. Also, I never knew that Capital Investors required such a large return, but it does make sense since the risk is great.

I would like to ask for more information and stats on the many different sources of capital. The information that was provided was very informative, but I would like to see more.

As I am not an authority on this subject, I cannot disagree with anything said in the book. I found it all very informative and inspiring. I look forward to reading more in the book.

Half-way Reflection

Reflection

I have set aside a certain amount of time to dedicate to this course. I make sure to look at what is due the following week and also to make sure to open the assignments to see what is exactly entailed in the assignment. The assignments are not too difficult one has to check in every day and keep up with the timeline.

To me the worst part is the interviews with complete strangers. Especially if the potential interviewees keep denying you the interview, at times I would want to skip the assignment. I would keep saying to myself that I only need one to get it started. And it seems to always happen. I would get that first one and then the rest would seem to follow one after the other. At the end I would always feel accomplished and significant.

One must always, “Keep The End in Mind” (Stephen Covey, Seven Habits of Highly Effective People) and know that to get a good grade one has to complete the majority of the assignments and also do any extra credit that comes available. Yellowdig is a great source of that extra credit. Also keep in mind that the assignments are actually fun once you get into them and it does give one a feeling of accomplishment.

The Twenty Percent

80/20

Entrepreneur:

Customers:

Reflection: 

I felt the entrepreneur that I interview was very aware of his customer base and needs. One of the items that he mentioned off camera was that a lot of his customers procrastinate in getting certified to dive. Other than that he was aware of where to advertise and where not too. Great interview as far as I am concerned.

Week 7 Reading Reflection

Rediscovering Market Segmentation

To me, Market segmentation seems to be a gamble. Though the research does provide some good conclusions, it still is a bit unproven that a company/corporation would be able to hit the correct audience.

Why would a company continue to invest such a large amount of money towards something that only works part of the time? I did a little research into today’s market segmentation and it is advancing into ways that actually do contrive results. Mainly through the intensive use of the digital world. It digs deeper into the wants and needs of consumers and is able to differentiate the groups better.

It seems in the end of the article that they conceded to the fact that it doesn’t work as well as intended. But at the first of the article they seemed to be all for it. My question would be; Why the misconception?

As I am not an authority in this area, I will not construe anything in the article to be inaccurate. It was a good article and I learned much form it.

Elevator Pitch No. 2

Elevator Pitch #2

I received nothing but positive feedback for my "Elevator Pitch #1", with that being said, I am posting the same pitch as the first time. My motto is to "Work smarter, Not harder". So there is no need to re-record the pitch.

The most important part of the first responses was the positive feedback. I really think this is a plausible opportunity, regrettably I will not be able to see it into fruition as I will be attending graduate school in another city and/or state.

If I am incorrect in my thinking, please let me know and by all means take the points away. I feel that there is no dishonesty here because I am letting the readers know in advance of my actions.

At this time, I only have access to a webcam. (can't afford a new phone) 

As I stated above I left the pitch the exact same as my prior pitch.

Customer Interviews No. 3

Customer Interview 3

This is what I wrote on the paper that I handed to the interviewees:

I have come up with an opportunity to start a union for the service industry. If unionized the employees would have representation in conflicting matters that involve one perspective employer. Such as being fired/dismissed from a position without probable cause. Also employees would be eligible for benefits such as fair wages and health/dental insurance.

The outcome was very positive. The majority of the interviewees were all for the opportunity that I presented to them. This will not really change anything. The response has been the same throughout all the interviews, which is the majority are for it.

Week 6 Reading Reflection

Reading Reflection

I never understood all the different factors that were involved in the business process. One must really do some research prior to starting a business. The five elements are of tremendous help to any entrant into a particular industry. The way they are dissected for each separate factor helps one to really look into what needs to be done or not done to become and stay competitive in any industry.

I was a little confused about how a supplier can monopolize a product and then use that to set higher prices as a bargaining power. I would have thought there would be laws against such a practice.

Why aren’t there laws against price fixing or being able to monopolize a certain industry or product category? Should it be lobbied to stop such inappropriate practice?

The article was well written. I enjoyed reading the entire thing and learned a lot of new information I was not aware of. I will definitely use the five factors in my new endeavor.

Idea Napkin No. 1

Idea Napkin

Week 6

I am an entrepreneur. I have started and successfully operated several businesses. I plan on working in the executive offices of a large and prosperous corporation. The business I have conceptually planned will be of great benefit to service employees of the Orlando, Central Florida, and eventually Florida area. Unfortunately, this will not have any impact on my life as I will be moving on to graduate school and will not be able to work it into a valid business.

My business will be a great benefit to service employees. It will give them some backing when it comes to disputes with an employer as well as making sure that the employees are treated fairly with fair compensation and benefits for the position they are in.

The service will be offered to all service employees in the Orlando area. If the service does well, it will be offered to service employees in the state of Florida.

They would care because the state of Florida is a “Right-to-work” state. Which means that one can be fired or released for any reason what so ever. The service would provide leverage for the employee to standup to the employer and demand a valid reason or force the employer to reinstate the employee. Employees want fair wages and benefits.

This is a service that is not available to the service industry in Florida. This would be the only service provider in the state.

I believe this business plan fits together well. The only flaw I could see coming up would be that the employees are reluctant to join for fear of retaliation from an employer. Hopefully, they will understand that this is what the service to intended to do away with “Fear” of an employer. The employers will also be against it as it will ultimately set them back financially as well as take some of the power away from them. All in all, the concept is good.

Week 5 Reading Reflection

Reading Reflection

Week 5

I was not aware of the rate of start-ups. (1500 per day) The statistics are staggering. It almost makes one feel that the chances of coming up with an original idea as well as an advantage that one might have over another is small in numbers. I do like ands appreciate the checklist that was produced in the book.
I have never thought of starting a business that produces products so the section on product availability was a little confusing to me. I had always thought that most products were always readily available.
Where does one find these feasibility reports or how does one come up with the correct questions to ask per business one is about to go into. To me, I would brain storm with others to come up with the proper questions that needed answered for a certain type of business to be successful and profitable in the first year and every year after.
Again I am no authority on this subject so it is all great information. I really have enjoyed reading and learning form this book thus far.

Elevator Pitch No. 1

Service Industry Union

Week 5

My opportunity is to provide service industry employees with representation for fair wages and benefits as well as representation for being fired/released without a valid reason

My solution is to form a Union for service employees.

Customer Interviews No. 1

Customer Interview

Week 4

The opportunity that I identified was that the "Service Industry" does not have any organization nor any protection/rights as an employee. I learned that the majority of the employees I interviewed were for Unionization. This surprised me.

Questions:
1. Are you a Service Industry Employee?
2. Would you like to see the Service Industry Unionized?
3. What benefits would you like to see if it were to become unionized?

I am fortunate in the interviewing process being that I have worked as a Business Developer prior to now and have obtained the skills to talk with complete strangers. My only draw back at this moment is that I have braces on my teeth and cannot modulate my words proficiently. Fun assignment.

Week 4 Reading Reflection

Reading Reflection

Week 4

What surprised me the most about this week’s readings was that entrepreneurs sometimes will talk themselves out of an idea before even trying to implement it. Negative talk from others really can influence one’s own decisions. I know of a few times that others would shot down an idea I have had, but being an optimist, I always seem to find the good or challenge in the negative comments.

I was confused (initially) by the Recognizing Relations section of the book. That appositional relationships exist because of other things and people. After rereading it a couple of time it started to finally make a little more sense to me.

First I would ask about the muddling mindset actions, is their scientific evidence that people only use 2-10% of their brains? If so where could one find this information/studies?

I was fascinated and intrigued by the complete chapter. A little confused at first on some of the concepts, but after rereading them I understood the point that was being presented. Great book thus far.

Top 5 World Problems

Top 5 World Problems

Week 4

Problems:
1. Wars in the name of religion. How can so many different religions be the one almighty true religion?
2. Terrorism and the effect it is having on the world. No one like being scared to walk around in their own city with a possible terrorist act being committed at any time.
3. Climate change and what it is doing to our planet. How can anyone not notice that the earth is changing and it is due to our emissions?
4. Nuclear weapons need to be nonexistent. How is a nuclear weapon ever going to be used? The first one to go up will send all the others up and the world will no longer exist.
5. Famine in any part of this world we live in. With the amount of food that goes to waste each day, how can people be staring?

Solutions:
1. *The International Climate Change Agreement needs to be mandatory instead of voluntary. Countries that deem it too expensive to do anything about their emissions is not going to do anything.
2. *We need to end this once and for all time. It is not a matter of politics anymore it is a matter of keeping humans safe and secure.
3. *We need to come together and discuss what it is that makes all the other religions wrong and how is it possible for there to be so many GODS.
4. *Somehow the governments need to get together for their people and the people of the world and find a way to harvest the land that they have, and also supply adequate water to those areas.
5. *Just get rid of them all. There is no place in this world for weapons of such mass destruction.

I chose the “Wars in the name of Religion”, as my top problem because I believe that is where all the terrorism is contributed too. To me it is unbelievable how so many people can get upset over an entity that is based on a belief. Nothing more than a belief.

I chose “Climate Change” as my top solution because we are so close to an actual resolution. We know what needs to be done, now we just need to inforce it all around the world. No country should be exempt from it because it is going to affect us all, as it already is.

Week 3 Reading Reflection

Reading Reflection

Week 3

I have a type A personality. I had always thought that I had a type A personality, but after reading the chapter, I know for sure. It described myself almost with absolution. I t was definitely a fun read.
What I found most confusing about the chapter was the part on Ethical Rationalizations. I cannot remember a time that I let my business get in the way of logical thinking. As much stress that one might be under with starting and running their own business, I never found myself make bad or immoral/unethical decisions. (that I actually carried through on)
I would ask (again) for more insight into why he thinks entrepreneurs would make such bad decisions. Also, what are the actual results compiled from. Because I find it very interesting how people under pressure make decisions.
I found the chapter to be new (to me) and interesting. This was another great chapter in the book. I look forward to reading more in the next weeks.

Identifying Local Opportunities

Local Opportunities

Week 3

Politicians say Miami ‘slums' prove need for new laws
http://infoweb.newsbank.com.lp.hscl.ufl.edu/resources/doc/nb/news/15A8E3CD20CD1840?p=AWNB
Decrypted old apartment buildings are putting low-income tenants at risk. The owners are not complying with the court’s rulings to fix the buildings.
Low-income tenants are put at risk.
Abraham and Denise Vaknin

Single-family home prices soar in Broward County
http://infoweb.newsbank.com.lp.hscl.ufl.edu/resources/doc/nb/news/15A8E3CB121D96A8?p=AWNB
Increasing home prices are making almost impossible for first-time home buyers and low-income families to purchase a house. The rising prices are also an indication of exactly what caused the last recession, one of the longest and greatest recessions in history.
Rising home prices.
First Time Home Buyers and Low-Income Families

Race to redevelop Liberty Square down to two feuding developers
http://infoweb.newsbank.com.lp.hscl.ufl.edu/resources/doc/nb/news/15A8E3CC1AC174F0?p=AWNB
Competition between two developers has curtain-tailed plans for a redevelopment of a local community square. The two developer’s lawyers are dragging out the finalization for a winning bid, as well as the start date for the redevelopment.
Unnecessary start and completion of a community redevelopment.
The community

Car2Go suspending business indefinitely in Miami, Miami Beach
http://infoweb.newsbank.com.lp.hscl.ufl.edu/resources/doc/nb/news/15A88F87690EFC80?p=AWNB
Taxes and low ridership are proving too much for a local rideshare company. After years of service to the Miami and Miami Beach area, Car2Go is suspending their ride share service with hopes of returning service at a later date.
Taxes and fees are too high to continue service.

Customers

Climate change could cost jobs in South Florida, says White House adviser
http://infoweb.newsbank.com.lp.hscl.ufl.edu/resources/doc/nb/news/15A83B09F3219D68?p=AWNB
Global warming could have a devastating effect on the local Miami tourism sector. As sea levels rise the beaches are starting to erode as well as the water level would start to undermine buildings with devastating effects. All of this is a cause of future unemployment of 1000’s of workers who depend on the tourism to stay employed.
Rising sea levels would stifle tourism.
Employed and Unemployed people

Very Short Interview No. 1

Entrepreneur Interview

Week 3

The entrepreneur I interviewed is the owner/operator of Fox Realty, which started in Santa Cruz, CA. and has since moved to a more aggressive area in Denver, CO.

1. What was your motivation as an entrepreneur, to start your business?

        My husband was a pilot and traveling a great deal.  He also had a background as a real estate broker and I have a background in architecture and construction administration.  We saw real estate investing as a good opportunity to work for ourselves and control not only our income but our schedule as well.

2. What has been your greatest challenge to date as an entrepreneur?

        Our greatest challenge has been locating discounted properties.  We had thought at the beginning that lining up financing would be much harder but that has been easy in comparison. Finding properties that are discounted enough to allow for a profit after remodeling costs has been very difficult.

3. Where would you like to see your business go in the future?

        We plan to purchase rental properties in other US markets and remodel multi-unit and larger residential properties and explore new construction opportunities in our local market.

I am not really surprised at all to the answers given. I know this couple personally and know of their work ethic as well as their drive to succeed at whatever it is they set out to do. I learned from the answers that with determination and patience that anyone can succeed as an entrepreneur.

World's Biggest Problems

World’s Biggest Problems

Week 3

1. Wars in the name of religion. How can so many different religions be the one almighty true religion?
*We need to come together and discuss what it is that makes all the other religions wrong and how is it possible for there to be so many GODS.
2. Famine in any part of this world we live in. With the amount of food that goes to waste each day, how can people be staring?
*Somehow the governments need to get together for their people and the people of the world and find a way to harvest the land that they have, and also supply adequate water to those areas.
3. Climate change and what it is doing to our planet. How can anyone not notice that the earth is changing and it is due to our emissions?
*The International Climate Change Agreement needs to be mandatory instead of voluntary. Countries that deem it too expensive to do anything about their emissions is not going to do anything.
4. Terrorism and the effect it is having on the world. No one like being scared to walk around in their own city with a possible terrorist act being committed at any time.
*We need to end this once and for all time. It is not a matter of politics anymore it is a matter of keeping humans safe and secure.
5. The population is starting to spiral out of control. Especially now that China has lifted their “One baby per Family” decree.
*People need to be more responsible for their actions and the repercussions of those actions. If you can’t afford an additional mouth to feed, use some protection to make sure it doesn’t happen.
6. Disease being spread throughout the world. How can a disease that is deadly enough to kill a person spread throughout the world with such ease?
*Proper screening needs to be set up at airports and train stations to monitor a person for diseases. Also, people should hold themselves more accountable if they know that they are sick.
7. Border control being such a huge issue. I know this is a touchy subject, but I believe in border control and immigrate having to be properly documented and have legitimate jobs as well as paying taxes.
*Do something about it. Stop all the talk and let’s see a little action. I personally do not know the solution, but we need to just start somewhere and see where it goes.
8. Nuclear weapons need to be nonexistent. How is a nuclear weapon ever going to be used? The first one to go up will send all the others up and the world will no longer exist.
*Just get rid of them all. There is no place in this world for weapons of such mass destruction.
9. Oil production is out of control. There is so much oil in the United states that not one individual corporation can make any money. The far east knows this, that is why they have upped their production to keep the prices down and make it too expensive to produce oil in the U.S.
*The U.S. needs to start buying more of our own oil and less of the oil from the far east.
10. We need to bring manufacturing jobs back to the U.S., so our own economics can increase.
*We need to stop buying a large portion of the products we use here from other countries. The government needs to increase incentives for companies to open more manufacturing facilities her in the U. S.

Week 2 Reading Reflection

Reading

Week 2

I would have to say the biggest surprise to me while reading this chapter is that there is workshop dedicated to financial/capital attainment. I had always thought that one should research and develop this skill on ones own. This is definitely something I am going to look into. A part of the reading that was confusing to me was about the number of small business started each year and their failure rate. I am not sure if entrepreneurs go into a business knowing that they have a high rate of failure. I would want to ask the author what one could do to lessen that chance of failure and also what is the mindset of entrepreneurs that do go into the business knowing that it might fail quickly and they will be out their life savings. (more often than not) Because I would like to know what to look for on my next entrepreneur venture. Personally I liked the entire chapter. I found it very informative and look forward to read more. So I found nothing that I could honestly say I disagreed with.

Bug List

Bug List
Week 2

1. Road construction slowing cars down to a crawl.
Roads need to be improved and maintained.
2. Rubberneckers thinking that they need to slow down and look at an accident that has nothing to do with them, and subsequently slowing everyone else down.
We should slow down while passing by a wreck on the roads. (but not too much)
3. People who are always late, are inconsiderate.
They do not think of others time as valuable as theirs.
4. Wi-Fi printers that don’t always connect right away.
There is a clinch that seems to always happen whenever I turn it on.
5. Mean people make the world a nasty place to live.
Their lives revolve around negativity.
6. Phone batteries that do not last very long.
There seems to be a bunch of hidden apps always running.
7. Phone chargers that do not charge a phone's battery very quickly.
You would think they could improve upon this situation.
8. Tablet processing takes forever.
See above.
9. Honda cars that seem to have the same mechanical breakdown every other month.
They could improve the parts that are being replaced.
10. People that think they need to know all your business all the time.
Don’t they have a life?
11. Students that think they can wait until the last minute of an exam to study and then complain about a bad grade.
They think that 12 hours of studying the day/night before an exam will stick to their memory.
12. Calculators with so many functions that one has a hard time using it.
They need to make them more user-friendly. (graphing calculators)
13. Expensive TV’s that seem to only last a couple of years.
I swear they do it on purpose to sell more of them. (turnaround time)
14. Wi-Fi service that is very slow.
If Europeans can have fast internet speed, why can’t we?
15. Textbooks that are so expensive one have to go without eating for a week.
They should limit what can be charged for a textbook.
16. Car service advisor that say they will only need the car for a couple of hours and turns into the whole day.
They should just tell you the whole day and then surprise you when/if it finished early.
17. Nutrition bars that say they are fat-free, but fail to mentions that are only the trans-fat.
That is how they trick you into buying their product. (false advertising)
18. Online retailers that say they are giving you 50% off a product, when in all actuality you can find it even cheaper elsewhere for regular price.
Another way of taking advantage of people.
19. People whom you email or text that don’t respond in a considerable amount of time.
They don’t care.
20. Expensive sunglasses that break within a couple months of buying them.
It cost too much to ship them back for a new pair.
21. Me having to write this and sound like a whiner.
I really don’t complain this much.

I found that while writing this “Bugs” out, I had a hard time coming up with anything concrete. This bugs I have written about seem so petty and non-constructive. I really don’t complain this much. Seems like a waste of time.

Introduction

Week 2

My name is Dallin Jones, am in my 3rd (junior) year of a Business Administration Degree (BSBA). Completed my first two years at Valencia. After completing the BSBA program, I will either continue on into an MBA program or (if I am accepted) enter the Doctorate program at Harvard University. 

Have 15 years in construction management, I started to plateau in my advancement and needed a degree to move up to the next levels as a COO or CEO. 

I have one daughter that is the love of my life. I enjoy surfing, SUPing, road biking, motor biking, and anything sports related.

My Entrepreneurship Story

Week 2

I would guess one could say that I have been an entrepreneur from a very young age.

I was a member of Boy Scouts of America, and they had a program where one could sell magazine subscriptions door-to-door and earn points for an array of equipment a boy scout could use in their everyday life. There was no course one could take to learn how to sell the magazines, one would just go out and learn on their own. I did quite well at it, it was my own little business. I also had a paper route, where I would have to wake up very early to deliver hundreds of papers, do all the collections and pay for the papers I delivered. Again on my own.

Which lead to the Real Estate Investment firm I owned. Included several apartment buildings, that was owned and run by my company. A couple of years later I opened a Real Estate Development company, was able to procure several investors and plan my first, ground up, new construction apartment building. Unfortunately, that was in 2007, right before the recession hit and the project did not materialize.

Needless to say, I am not afraid to venture out and start a business.

I enrolled into ENT 3003 mostly because it is required by my degree. But just completing the first few assignments and reading all the information one will be getting out of the class, I am very excited to continue. I expect to gain a vast knowledge of Entrepreneurship in this class.