Please find attached files for the topic description and structure.

Optional Practice Exercise: Group Presentation Outline In this optional practice exercise, student groups will prepare an outline for their poster presentation titled Evaluating and Improving Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in the Hospitality Industry. Each group will analyze a hospitality organization that is failing to address DEI effectively, identify key issues, and propose actionable strategies for improvement. The outline must include a company overview, areas for DEI improvement, and five recommended strategies, with proper citations and a formatted cover page. Instructions The title of your group presentation is: “Evaluating and Improving Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in the Hospitality Industry”. You have been assigned to groups of 34 students, exactly as presented in the main group presentation assignment. In this Optional Practice Exercise, each group may submit an outline of its poster presentation, which should include the following: The specific hospitality organization that is not properly addressing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). It can be a hotel, restaurant, cruise line, etc. Company Overview (Here you provide key points for the following items and the sources from which you got them). Who they are, what business they are in, what their mission and vision statement is, what their corporate goals and values are, how many brands they operate, etc. Are there any specific ethical scandals or issues related to some of its brands? For example, are there any lawsuits against it? Identifying Areas for Improvement Here, you must identify at least three major areas for improvement that are directly related to the companys inability to properly promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, which it should emphasize and work on. Make sure that you mention the sources from which you got them. Recommended Strategies for the Promotion of DEI Once again, here you must identify at least five (5) specific strategies that you strongly recommend the company follow to foster DEI. They must be directly related to the areas of improvement that you have identified. Make sure that you mention the sources from which you got them. Note: It is important to include multiple sources in your research to get the most accurate information. Do not rely only on the company’s website. Specifications: Your Group Presentation Outline must be typed in a Microsoft document and submitted via Canvas by midnight on March 4, 2025. It should include all the different sections as headings and subheadings, and it must have a cover page. The cover page should include: the current semester, the group members with the group leader clearly stated, and the responsibilities of each group member

needs to introduce me a little bit my names Rebecca I work in Mitchells and butlers at the anchor inn Irby as a team coach my essay is about how we can improve service you need to include why I’ve chosen it what the benefits to the business are the challenges the timeframe and if there is any cost involved don’t go too much into detail as this will all be in my essay this is just a introduction

MAJOR: Hospitality and Tourism Management

PLEASE CREATE AN IMPRESSIVE STRATEGY WITH OUT-OF-BOX THOUGHTS

Project Overview

Myma.ai is a global AI platform serving the hospitality and tourism industry. Having successfully deployed AI chatbot and automation solutions across hotels and resorts worldwide, Myma.ai is now expanding into a new sub-vertical: Tours & Activities operators.

For Spring 2026, Myma.ai is seeking a student consulting team to research, validate, and design a go-to-market strategy for launching a purpose-built AI chatbot solution for Tours & Activities companies in Hawaii, supported by a newly appointed local Myma.ai sales representative.

Instruction:

1. Myma.ai – you can search this website to know more about what they are doing
2. Deliverable Guidelines – this is overview of the project given by the company to instruct students
3. Working Document – you can base on this file to start your research. this kinda helps you what to focus on, but not limited to it, can be broadening to something impressive
4. We have a call with the company, here are what we got
5. Notes on the phone
6. Transcript (1)
7. Transcript (2)

this is a discussion post and an assignment, ill post the discussion and you will have to respond to 3 people.

The strategy-making process is multifaceted and includes many organizational resources and people to make it happen. However, before an organization can even create a strategy, they need to ensure that the fundamental pieces are in place.

To begin our conversation on this module, answer the following question and then engage with the corresponding discussion:

The strategic vision is the most important component of charting an organization’s direction, vs The mission statement is the most important component of charting an organization’s path?

Remember to pull from your textbook, articles, videos, and other materials to provide specific answers, processes, concepts, and examples for this question. The first response will start the discussion, and each corresponding response must add to what has been said in previous posts.

Feb 10 7:39pm

| Last reply Feb 22 3:06pm

Reply from Jacklitch, Madison

When comparing strategic vision and mission statement, I think that strategic vision is more important to a company. The book explains that the strategic vision Describes managements aspirations for the companys future and the course and direction charted to achieve them (Thompson). This vision has to do with the long-term goals that the company has and without this vision there would be no clear direction to efficiently operate the organization. There has been a decline in employee engagement within the workplace and the reason for this according to Forbes, One of the main reasons employees give for their lack of engagement is a lack of connection with the companys purpose; another top reason they cite is a lack of clarity on what the organization expects of them (Eylor). Having a clear and well-communicated vision can help management communicate to customers, employees, and stockholders what their purpose and goal of the company is. They allow everyone to understand the future of the company as well.

When you think about a companys mission statements it was found that there can be problems since there can be a disconnect from the organizations. Many mission statements are considered quite brief, and some companies dont get a good job at conveying the purpose of the business within the statement. The strategic vision has a much clearer purpose for the future well the mission statement describes the purpose of present business. Thats why I believe that the mission statement is more valuable to a company.

Thompson, Arthur A. Crafting & Executing Strategy: The Quest for Competitive Advantage: Concepts and Cases, 2024 Release. Available from: University of Wisconsin-Stout, McGraw-Hill Higher Education (US), 2021.

Eylor, R. (2023, June 1). The importance of taking a visioning approach to business. Forbes. https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesbusinesscouncil/2023/06/01/the-importance-of-taking-a-visioning-approach-to-business/

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MT

Feb 10 8:01pm

Reply from McGinty, Teagan

I also agree with you, Madison. I think strategic vision is the most important when it comes to charting an organization’s direction. The strategic vision lays the groundwork for the company’s future. A strategic vision thus points an organization in a particular direction, charts a strategic path for it to follow, builds commitment to the future course of action, and molds organizational identity (Thompson 24). The mission statement is more about the present and what the organization is doing at the moment. It is essential to have a clear statement that is both easy to understand and not overly simplistic. Knowing not just the vision statement but the real underlying meaning of that statement helps you become involved in creating the future of your company.

Mission statements can be quite brief, just like what you said, Madison. Some are not so revealing, such as Microsoft’s mission statement, To empower every person and every organization on the planet to achieve more (Thompson 28). The mission statement only focuses on the present, not on the path they are going to take in the future.

Thompson, Arthur A. Crafting & Executing Strategy: The Quest for Competitive Advantage: Concepts and Cases, 2024 Release. Available from: University of Wisconsin-Stout, McGraw-Hill Higher Education (US), 2021.

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Feb 11 10:53am

| Last edited Feb 12 7:05pm

Reply from Ambourn, Avery

I also agree with you. Teagan. I believe the strategic vision is the most important element when charting an organization’s direction because it lays the groundwork for the company’s future. As Thompson explains, a strategic vision “points an organization in a particular direction, charts a strategic path for it to follow, builds commitment to the future course of action, and molds organizational identity” (Thompson, p.24). This highlights how vision not only guides long-term strategy but also helps employees feel connected to where the company is going.

In comparison, the mission statement focuses more on the present and what the organization is currently doing. While is it still important for a mission statement to be clear, meaningful, and not overly simplistic, it does not always communicate future direction. Understanding the deeper meaning behind a vision statement can help employees feel more involved in shaping the company’s future rather than only completing day-to-day tasks.

I also agree with your point that mission statements can sometimes be too brief or “not so revealing.” For example, Microsoft’s mission statement-“To empower every person and every organization on the planet to achieve more” (Thompson, p.28)-describes purpose but does not clearly explain the long-term strategic path. Because of this, I see the strategic vision as more influential in guiding future growth and organizational alignment.

Thompson, A. A. (2021). Crafting & executing strategy: The quest for competitive advantage: Concepts and cases (2024 release). McGraw-Hill Education.

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WJ

Feb 11 12:33pm

Reply from Wilhelmson, Jackson

I agree with you Avery, and I think you did a good job explaining how a strategic vision helps guide long-term organizational direction. Building off your point, I think another important benefit of a strong strategic vision is that it helps organizations maintain consistency in decision-making. When leadership has a clear understanding of the company’s future goals, it becomes easier to evaluate new opportunities, investments, and changes to operations because they are able to measure them against the organizations long-term direction. This helps prevent companies from making short-term decisions that could negatively impact future growth.

I also like your discussion about how vision statements help employees feel like they are connected to the organization. To build off that idea, research is often showing that employees are much more engaged and productive when they understand how their individual roles are contributing to the company’s larger goals. A clearly communicated strategic vision can help strengthen teamwork and can encourage employees to take more ownership in helping the organization succeed. Having this connection between vision and employee engagement can ultimately improve a customers satisfaction and the overall organizational performance.

Your example of Microsoft’s mission statement from the textbook (Thompson) also highlights an important distinction between the idea of mission and vision. While Microsoft’s mission explains its purpose and who it is serving, it is not necessarily describing the specific path the company plans to follow in the coming future. This idea is that mission statements are more focused on the present operations, while the strategic visions are providing the forward-looking guidance that is helping the organizations adapt to changes in tech, customer needs, and the competition.

Overall, I agree with your conclusion that the strategic vision plays a more influential role in guiding the future growth and alignment. When an organization can combine a strong vision with a supportive mission statement, they are able to create a balanced strategy that ends up helping them succeed in daily operations and long-term planning.

Thompson, A. A. (2021). Crafting & executing strategy: The quest for competitive advantage: Concepts and cases (2024 release). McGraw-Hill Education.

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DJ

Feb 17 6:56pm

Reply from Daniels, Jacob

I agree with you Madison, strategic vision is essential because it sets the long-term direction of an organization and gives employees a clear sense of purpose. It shapes the companys identity, outlines where the organization wants to be in the future and helps guide major decisions. When employees understand the vision, they are more likely to feel connected to the companys goals and motivated to contribute to its success.

In contrast, a mission statement focuses more on the present. It explains what the organization does, who it serves, and its core purpose right now. For example, Microsofts mission statement, To empower every person and every organization on the planet to achieve more, clearly shows its purpose but does not fully describe the specific path it will take in the future. The main difference is that the mission defines what the company does today, while the strategic vision defines where it is going tomorrow and provides a roadmap for long-term growth and success.

Thompson, Arthur A. Crafting & Executing Strategy: The Quest for Competitive Advantage: Concepts and Cases, 2024 Release. Available from: University of Wisconsin-Stout, McGraw-Hill Higher Education (US), 2021.

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Feb 20 4:26pm

| Last edited Feb 20 4:27pm

Reply from Bryant, Ian

Yes, Teagan I agree “Mission statements can be quite brief” as long as they accurately represent how a company represent themselves and the business they conduct. Reading through our book lead me to “A strategic vision offers little value to the organization unless its effectively communicated down the line to lower-level managers and employees. A vision cannot provide direction for middle managers or inspire and energize employees unless everyone in the company is familiar with it and can observe senior managements commitment to the vision. It is particularly important for executives to provide a compelling rationale for a dramatically new strategic vision and company direction. When company personnel dont understand or accept the need for redirecting organizational efforts, they are prone to resist change.” I find this especially relevant when it comes to older companies with deep values that date back to their original founders. If those core values are not held onto, I think back to “What would the founders think?” That’s why mission statements are important.

Works Cited

Thompson, Arthur A., et al. Crafting and Executing Strategy ; the Quest for Competitive Advantage : Concepts and Cases. 24th ed., Mcgraw-Hill, 2024.

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Feb 11 2:15pm

Reply from Kugel, Brooke

I agree with your point that a strategic vision is very important because it gives the company a clear direction for the future. Without it, employees and managers may not understand where the company is headed, which can lead to confusion and disengagement, like you mentioned from the Forbes article. A well-communicated vision helps everyone in the organization see their role in reaching long-term goals, and it can also strengthen the connection with customers and stockholders.

I also see your point about mission statements, but I would say they serve a different role. Mission statements focus more on the present purpose of the company, while the strategic vision looks ahead. Both are important, but I agree that the vision might have a bigger impact on motivating employees and guiding long-term strategy, especially in a time when engagement and clarity are key issues.

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WM

Feb 11 6:10pm

Reply from Wengelski, Megan

To build off my classmates ideas, the vision statement of a company is the more important component of charting an organizations direction. From looking at Thompsons definition of the vision statement, it is clear that it is the fundamental idea that drives the company. As most of my classmates have pointed out, the mission statement is simply what the company is striving for now, but the vision is the heart of company operations. A good strategy only goes so far if there is no ultimate goal (vision) for the company.

The beginning of the chapter includes a quote from professor and consultant Ella L.J. Bell Smith that states: Before you plan how to get to where you want to go, you must first know why you are going and where you are going. The why is connected to the companys mission, while the where is all about its vision. This quote demonstrates the importance of the mission and vision statement, as well as the relationship between them. Both are important, but the vision creates direction.

References:

Thompson, Arthur A. Crafting & Executing Strategy: The Quest for Competitive Advantage: Concepts and Cases, 2024 Release. Available from: University of Wisconsin-Stout, McGraw-Hill Higher Education (US), 2021.

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Feb 11 10:13pm

Reply from Graham, Allison

I agree with the initial post stating that a strategic vision is more important than a mission statement. A strategic vision is more focused and centered on an organizations goals with relation to their guests as well as their employees, whereas a mission statement is more relative to an organizations current goals and doesnt look ahead. A mission statement also can be vague and not provide a solid enough foundation for an organization to base their goals on. A strategic vision provides a foundation for an organization by being distinctive and specific (Thompson, p. 24).

As Thompson states, understanding where a company is going and why molds organizational identity (Thompson, p. 24); this demonstrates how a strategic vision aids in the organizational culture of a company or business, guiding employees toward the desired goal. I agree with Caleb as he mentioned how a strategic vision inspires innovation; I think this kind of method encourages new ways of reaching goals and building efficiency within an organization (when good communication on every level is involved). Its also important to note that a strategic vision not only states where a company is going but also why, and a mission statement tends not to include the why.

Thompson, A. A. (2021). Crafting & executing strategy: The quest for competitive advantage: Concepts and cases (2024 release). McGraw-Hill Education.

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Feb 11 10:29pm

Reply from Graham, Kaitlin

With what has been discussed thus far amongst everyone, I can agree that the strategic vision statement is the most important component of charting an organizations direction. I think it overall provides more complexity and character for a company, as leadership gets the chance to really dive into where they want to be in the years to come and how they want that to be conveyed to others (like stakeholders, employees, customers, etc.). I agree with Jacksons emphasis on the important connection of how if leadership understands the company on a more profound level through a well-conceived vision statement, then it opens the door for growth opportunities; a vision statement helps drive strategic actions with a purpose as a company has a clear direction to work towards.

To add further to the discussion, I think that this type of statement gives companies a platform to stand out amongst their competitors on many levels, as the book states, Well-conceived visions are distinctive and specific to a particular organization; they avoid generic, feel-good statements… (Thompson, p. 24). Vision statements clarify a companys unique purpose, strengthen their brand, guide innovation and inspire customers as well as employees. Mission statements are weak in this sense, as they only help consumers understand what a company offers and how it operates. As Allison mentioned, its the why that really matters; it resonates with people so they can understand a company on a level beyond the surface. Overall, the vision statement provides that emotional backdrop, where the mission statement simply serves a more functional purpose with the companys roles and activities.

Thompson, A. A. (2021). Crafting & executing strategy: The quest for competitive advantage: Concepts and cases (2024 release). McGraw-Hill Education.

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Feb 12 1:45pm

Reply from Serum, Sydney

I agree with you that the strategic vision plays a critical role in guiding an organization’s long-term direction. As the textbook emphasizes in chapter 2, a strategic vision describes management’s aspirations for the company’s future and clarifies “where we are going” and why that direction makes sense. Without a clear vision, organizations can become reactive and short-sighted, focusing only on everyday operations rather than building sustainable competitive advantage. I also think your connection to employee engagement is important. When employees understand the long-term direction of the firm, they are more likely to see how their role contributes to something bigger.

At the same time, I would argue, the mission statement is slightly more foundational in charting the organization’s path. In this chapter, mission is defined as “who we are, what we do adn why we are here.” It clarifies the company’s present business scope, customer base, and core purpose. If an organization lacks clarity about its mission, the vision becomes unrealistic or disconnected from the actual capabilities of the organization.

Rather than seeing one or the other more important, I see them both as interdependent. The mission places the organization in its identity and competitive domain, where the vision stretches it to opportunity and growth. I agree with you that poorly written mission statements can weaken the impact, which may make the vision appear more influential. However, from a strategic standpoint, a clear mission statement ensures consistency in decision-making, while the vision directs future strategy.

Thompson, Arthur A. Crafting & Executing Strategy: The Quest for Competitive Advantage: Concepts and Cases, 2024 Release. Available from: University of Wisconsin-Stout, McGraw-Hill Higher Education (US), 2021.

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Feb 12 7:26pm

| Last edited Feb 12 7:30pm

Reply from Ambourn, Avery

Sydney, I completely agree that strategic vision is still important because it gives an organization a clear sense of where it is headed in the long run. When employees understand that direction, it is easier for them to see how their everyday work connects to something bigger, which can improve motivation and engagement. At the same time, I think the mission… [Content truncated to 3000 words]

First, read the article about Kingfisher attached on files.

Second, follow the APA document attached on files.

Third, do the following assignment:

Question 1. You need to create examples of the following:

Title page

Citation with two authors

Citation with three authors

Reference of a chapter within a book

Reference of a blog

Use of four headers

A quote with 20 words

A quote with 50 words

Table

Figure

Question 2. Explain how luxury and religion share a common core. First, draw this wheel and then define each term.

Question 3. What are the drivers of luxury? and then explain each term.

Question 4. Draw the brand identify prism, explain each term, and then apply it to Kingfisher. You should go online, i.e., YouTube, to learn more about the company before it went bankrupt.

Question 5. Draw the semiotic square, explain the square, and then apply it to Kingfisher.

Carefully read the proposed scenario. Then, address the five tasks listed below. Use at least one real-world hospitality example or case as a comparison or support. Make sure you combine theory with practice by implementing the concepts we covered in this class. Points will be deducted for poor, short answers that lack strong arguments and justification. Questions should be included as headings within your assignment, followed by your detailed answers. Your paper must be in the form of a Microsoft document based on the following guidelines: Font: Times New Roman, 12 pt., double-spaced. It must be submitted via Canvas by the due date. Late submissions will not be accepted and will automatically receive a zero. Scenario Background Vista Mar Resort is a mid-size beachfront property known for its scenic views and quality service. However, over the past year, the resort has experienced a decline in employee morale and an increase in staff turnover. Guest satisfaction ratings have also dropped, with several complaints noting inattentive service and lack of enthusiasm from staff. Current Issues Employees feel overworked and underappreciated. Minimal input is allowed from frontline staff in decision-making. The resort lacks a formal recognition system or feedback loop. There is no clear training or career development path. The General Manager, Ms. Lopez, has recognized the problem and is determined to implement a strategy that incorporates employee motivation, empowerment, and continuous improvement to revitalize the workplace culture. Your Task As an expert and consultant, you must: Identify the main challenges faced by Vista Mar Resort. Propose at least three motivation strategies based on motivation theories (e.g., Maslow, Herzberg, or Expectancy Theory). Recommend two empowerment tactics that can help staff feel more involved and valued. Outline a continuous improvement plan (e.g., regular feedback loops, team meetings, training programs, or performance metrics). Suggest how to evaluate the success of these strategies over a 6-month period.

By now you should be developing an OUTLINE for your final presentation. This assignment requires you to create and submit an OUTLINE for your Pecha Kucha style presentation. Your OUTLINE should include your proposed title and an idea of what each of the 20 slides will be on. You can prepare it in Microsoft Word or Excel or you might choose to just start developing your presentation. Each slide should have a visual and you will narrate the content. Content for each slide is usually best if it is specific. Keep in mind that your goal with this presentation is to teach or educate the viewer about the sustainability topic you have selected. I do not expect your submitted OUTLINE to be the final presentation and recognize that it is still a “work in progress”. Don’t forget to review the rubric (below). And please be sure to view the video below where the instructor discusses in more detail what he expects from your submitted OUTLINE.

Your final project is a culmination of activities you have been working on during class. The main objective of this final assignment is to teach what you have learned about the Hospitality Management industry specifically careers available, skills and knowledge necessary, and how to identify issues that are affecting the industry.

You will be choosing one segment of the Hospitality Industry. Choose the one in which you are most interested in pursuing a career, because you will be identifying a career goal.

The following is a list of topical slides that should be included in your presentation. The overall presentation should be narrated and your voice recorded and you will need to include a word document that is a script or narration of your presentation (i.e. what you are saying in your presentation, broken down by slide number). You should not simply read what is on the slide your slides should not be wordy, but should be visually appealing and relevant to the topic you are addressing. You will be attaching your narrated powerpoint presentation as well as a word document of your script. (2 attachments)

Slide 1 Title slide just introduce yourself and the topic

Slide 2 Industry Segment Provide a definition of the industry segment that interests you most, presumably the one in which you will pursue a career. This may be foodservice, lodging, travel & tourism, event planning or a segment like recreation or casinos. The definition of the industry segment should be in your own words, but you will be including a reference that you used to help form that definition. This source should be from the Trefry library and this slide should include an APA formatted reference for that source on the bottom of the slide. You may use a source that you identified in your Week 2 Assignment submission just be sure to apply any corrections to format that you may have received on your feedback. This source needs to be an academic source a peer-reviewed journal or a textbook. This should not be a wiki page or an internet source.

Slide 3 Career Goal Describe your dream position within that industry segment and the steps you will have to take to achieve that position. This goes back to your work on your Week 4 Assignment. Describe the steps you will need to take to become qualified for that position in terms of education and experience.

Slide 4 Industry Issue Using an industry association source (such as the National Restaurant Association, the American Hotel & Lodging Association, U.S. Travel Association, The Events Industry Council, etc.) and their data, legislative issues page, or current issues page identify one major industry issue that is currently having an impact on the state of the industry and beyond just the industry (economy, environment, security, etc.). Include a link to the page you used as a reference this does NOT have to be APA formatted. In your narration (and script), summarize the issue, the stance the organization is taking on the issue, and what it means for the future of the industry. You may use an issue you identified in your Week 6 Assignment.

Slide 5 Application to Future Management Roles Wrap up your presentation with a summary of how you will utilize your particular skills and talents and your personality traits identified early in class to help you advance in your hospitality career and solve issues such as the one identified in this project. Define one specific theory or concept covered during class and relate how it will impact your future role in Hospitality Management.

Be sure you are submitting both your narrated recorded PowerPoint presentation AND your written script as a word document. This means there will be two attachments.

Reflect on a hospitality or customer service experience (real or hypothetical) where employee behavior needed correction or improvement. Describe how the situation was (or could be) handled using positive discipline (e.g., coaching, goal-setting, feedback, mentorship) or negative discipline (e.g., warnings, suspensions, termination). Analyze the short- and long-term impacts of the disciplinary approach on the individual, the team, and the overall workplace culture. Share your opinion: Is one approach more effective than the other? Should both be used together? Support your viewpoint with examples or HR/management