No More Tears for Johnson & Johnson The US Bureau of Labor Statistics has consistently reported that approximately 50% of small businesses will fail within their first five years, and 70% won’t make it to the 10-year mark (McIntyre, 2019). Knowing these facts, one must find Johnson & Johnson’s 133-years in business quite impressive. Founded in 1886 as a small business with only 14 employees, this iconic company has expanded to 60 countries and now employs over 130,000 workers (Ahern, 2019). This paper will examine Johnson & Johnson’s history and products and seek to explain how the company continues to thrive despite recent allegations of contaminated products and violations of federal securities laws. With inspiration from a speech given by a British surgeon and antiseptic advocate about post-operative infection, Robert Wood Johnson wanted to create a company to produce a line of ready-to-use surgical dressings (Benesh, 2010). To form the company, he combined his dynamic leadership skills with the talents of his two brothers, James Wood Johnson, a noteworthy inventor, and Edward Mead Johnson, a remarkable marketer (Ahern, 2019). Together the siblings made the perfect business team, believing that patients should always come before profits. For well over a century, Johnson & Johnson swept the industry by storm with a steady stream of innovative new products. To name a few of their major achievements, they were the first to create and market first-aid kits; the first to invent band-aids; the first to mass-produce feminine hygiene products; the first to introduce an aspirin-free pain reliever; and the first to develop a coronary stent (Blake, 2013). Johnson & Johnson’s products and operations are currently divided into three segments: medical devices, pharmaceuticals, and consumer health. The medical device segment generates approximately 36% of the company’s revenue and includes surgical equipment, diagnostic devices, joint replacements, and contact lens. The pharmaceutical segment is the most profitable, generating 47% of the company’s revenue. In addition to its renown Tylenol products, this segment also manufactures drugs for family planning, gastroenterology, allergies, mental illness, immunotherapy, and nervous system diseases. The consumer health segment produces the least in profits, with only 17% of revenue being generated. Ironically, it is this segment that Johnson and Johnson is most known for, distributing popular products as Neutrogena skin and hair care items, Stayfree feminine products, Reach oral care goods, Band-Aid brand bandages, and its most notable Johnson’s baby care products. As its baby powder is the subject of recent controversy, it is important to note that these specific products generate less than 0.5% of the company’s annual revenue (Johnson & Johnson- Company Profile). In 1894, Johnson & Johnson began selling its heritage baby powder which has always been made using talc, the softest mineral on the earth (Blake, 2013). For the past 125 years, Johnson & Johnson has dominated the talc powder market, its sales surpassing all its competitors combined (Girion, 2018). Although talc has been deemed safe for consumer use, it is very similar in composition to asbestos, a hazardous mineral well-known to cause ovarian cancer, lung cancer, and mesothelioma. Since these two minerals naturally form in the earth together over time, it is not uncommon to find deposits of talc that are contaminated with asbestos or asbestos-like fibers (Whitmer). Thus, giving birth to the allegations that Johnson & Johnson’s talcum powder causes cancer. One must applaud the company for aggressively defending its U.S. Pharmacopeia (USP) grade talcum powder products, maintaining their safety and ensuring they are free of asbestos. A statement on the company’s website regarding talcum powder safety reads: Thousands of tests repeatedly confirm that our consumer talc products do not contain asbestos. Our talc comes from ore sources confirmed to meet our stringent specifications. Not only do we and our suppliers routinely test to ensure our talc does not contain asbestos, our talc has also been tested and confirmed to be asbestos-free by a range of independent laboratories and universities, including the FDA, Harvard School of Public Health, and Mount Sinai Hospital (n.p.). Despite all of the product testing which found no asbestos, Johnson & Johnson has found itself entangled in substantial litigation brought by over 11,000 consumers that has resulted in massive verdicts against the company. Additionally, On February 9, 2018, shareholders who purchased securities between 2013 and 2018 also filed a class action lawsuit against Johnson & Johnson alleging the company failed to disclose material information to its investors (Whitmer, 2019). The lawsuits filed against Johnson & Johnson are vastly different from the lawsuits filed against other manufacturers who knowingly produced and exposed consumers to asbestos-related products but failed to warn its consumers of potential dangers. Rather, Johnson & Johnson is being accused of negligence in failure to detect a contaminant and falsely ensuring a product’s safety (Mauney, 2017). In my opinion, this validates the notion that Johnson & Johnson was not aware of any potential harm its products could ensue to its consumers. Therefore, there is no reason to believe the company acted unethically. One must also admire Johnson & Johnson for being transparent and openly communicating with the public to address every one of the allegations. On their website, the company has presented more than 5000 documents that were used as evidence throughout the trails. The website points out that although some juries have awarded significant verdicts against the company, all the cases have been overturned on appeal. There have also been cases that were outright dismissed and others where the jury did not award any compensation at all (The Talc Lawsuits). The company also renders compassion to the plaintiffs in the lawsuits, stating, ‘The stories of anyone suffering from any form of cancer are tragic, and we sympathize deeply with these patients and their families, and appreciate that they’re seeking answers (The Talc Lawsuits, n.p.).’ By reacting with transparency and compassion, it’s no wonder that Johnson & Johnson was ranked in the top 20 on Fortune’s list of the World’s Most Admired Companies in January 2019 for the 17th consecutive year. The company also ranked first in the worldwide Pharmaceutical category for the sixth consecutive year (Johnson & Johnson, 2019). In its 2019 third-quarter results, the company reported $20.7 billion in sales, which reflects 1.9% overall growth and 5.2% of adjusted operational growth (Johnson & Johnson Reports). Additionally, the company has spent less than 20% of the $5 billion stock buyback authorized as a result of the lawsuit brought against them by shareholders (Grant, 2019). I believe Johnson & Johnson will survive the negative publicity and minor setbacks resulting from the talc controversary. The company has refuted all allegations with grace and integrity that has won them favor in the public’s eye. Johnson & Johnson remains the world’s largest health care company and continues to thrive because of the sound reputation its built for the past 133 years. No more tears for Johnson & Johnson. References Ahern, Kaitlin. (2019, Feb 6). Band of Brothers: Meet the Innovative Men Who Founded Johnson & Johnson in 1886. Johnson & Johnson. Retrieved October 2019 from https://www.jnj.com/our-heritage/meet-the-innovative-brothers-who-founded-johnsonjohnson-in-1886 Benesh, P. (2010, Aug 12). Johnson & Johnson’s Big Shot Expand: Robert Wood Johnson II Turned the Medical Firm into a Global Power. Investor’s Business Daily. Retrieved October 2019 from https://lscsproxy.lonestar.edu/login?url=https://search-proquestcom.lscsproxy.lonestar.edu/docview/1002601684?accountid=7054 Blake, H. (2013, Jun 26). A History of Johnson & Johnson. Pharmaphorum. Retrieved October 2019 from https://pharmaphorum.com/articles/a-history-of-johnson-johnson/ Girion, L. (2018, Dec. 14). Powder Keg: Johnson & Johnson Knew for Decades that Asbestos Lurked in its Baby Powder. Reuters Investigates. Retrieved October 2019 from https://www.reuters.com/investigates/special-report/johnsonandjohnson-cancer/ Grant, C. (2019, Jan 22). Another Reason to Worry About Johnson & Johnson; Lawsuits Over Baby Powder are no Longer the Only Worry for Johnson & Johnson Investors as Pharmaceutical Sales Come Under Price and Sales Pressure. Wall Street Journal (Online) Retrieved October 2019 from https://lscsproxy.lonestar.edu/login?url=https://searchproquest-com.lscsproxy.lonestar.edu/docview/2169316764?accountid=7054 Johnson & Johnson- Company Profile, Information, Business Description, History, Backgound Information. Reference for Business, Retrieved October 2019 from https://www.referenceforbusiness.com/history2/88/Johnson-Johnson.html Johnson & Johnson Named a 2019 Fortune World’s Most Admired Company. (2019, Jan 22). Johnson & Johnson. Retrieved October 2019 from https://www.jnj.com/latestnews/johnson-johnson-on-2019-fortune-worlds-most-admired-companies-list Johnson & Johnson Reports 2019 Third-Quarter Results. Johnson & Johnson. Retrieved October 2019 from http://www.investor.jnj.com/johnson-johnson-reports-2019-third-quarterresults Mauney, Matt (2017, Oct 3) Johnson & Johnson Facing Asbestos Talcum Powder Lawsuits. Asbestos.com Retrieved October 2019 from https://www.asbestos.com/news/2017/10/03/johnson-johnson-asbestos-lawsuit-talc/ McIntyre, G. (2019, Sep 10). What Percentage of Small Businesses Fail? (and Other Need to Know Stats). Fundera. Retrieved October 2019 from https://www.fundera.com/blog/what-percentage-of-small-businesses-fail The Talc Lawsuits- What are They About? Johnson & Johnson. Retrieved October 2019 from https://www.factsabouttalc.com/litigation Whitmer, M. Hidden Dangers of Talc: When Manufacturers Put Profits Before People. Asbestos.com Retrieved October 2019 from https://www.asbestos.com/featuredstories/talc-dangers/ Purchase answer to see full attachment

Mastering the Art of Online Learning: Your Guide to Acing Online Courses

Introduction

In recent years, the popularity of online courses has skyrocketed, offering learners the flexibility to acquire new skills and knowledge from the comfort of their homes. However, succeeding in online courses requires a different approach compared to traditional classroom settings. To help you make the most of your online learning experience, this article presents essential strategies and tips to ace your online courses.

1. Set Clear Goals and Plan Ahead

Before embarking on an online course, establish clear goals and objectives. Determine what you hope to achieve by the end of the course and break down your goals into manageable milestones. Create a study schedule that aligns with your other commitments, ensuring you allocate dedicated time for coursework, assignments, and revision.

2. Create a Productive Study Environment

Establishing a conducive study environment is crucial for online learning success. Find a quiet, well-lit space where you can concentrate without distractions. Remove any potential interruptions, such as notifications from social media or email. Organize your study materials and have a reliable internet connection to ensure seamless access to course materials.

3. Actively Engage in the Course

Active participation is key to mastering online courses. Engage with course materials, including videos, readings, and interactive components. Take comprehensive notes, highlighting key concepts and ideas. Participate in discussion boards, forums, and virtual meetings to interact with instructors and peers, fostering a sense of community and enhancing your understanding of the subject matter.

4. Manage Your Time Effectively

Online courses offer flexibility, but it’s essential to manage your time wisely to avoid falling behind. Create a detailed schedule, allocating specific time slots for coursework, assignments, and studying. Break down larger tasks into smaller, manageable segments to prevent procrastination. Prioritize tasks based on deadlines and dedicate focused time to each one, ensuring consistent progress throughout the course.

5. Develop Effective Communication Skills

Online courses often rely on written communication, making it crucial to hone your skills in this area. Be concise and clear in your written responses, paying attention to grammar and spelling. Actively participate in discussions, asking thoughtful questions and providing constructive feedback to your peers. Regularly check your course emails and notifications, ensuring you stay updated with any important announcements or changes.

6. Utilize Available Resources

Take full advantage of the resources provided by your online course platform and instructors. Familiarize yourself with the learning management system (LMS) and explore its features. Access supplementary materials, such as textbooks, lecture slides, and external resources recommended by instructors. Utilize online libraries, research databases, and tutorial services to deepen your understanding of the subject matter.

7. Stay Motivated and Engaged

Maintaining motivation throughout an online course can be challenging, particularly when faced with competing priorities or a lack of face-to-face interaction. Set short-term goals and reward yourself upon their completion. Connect with fellow learners through virtual study groups or online forums to foster a sense of camaraderie. Regularly remind yourself of the benefits and personal growth associated with completing the course successfully.

8. Seek Support and Clarification

Don’t hesitate to seek support or clarification when needed. Reach out to your instructors for guidance or clarification on course material. Utilize online discussion forums to ask questions or engage in collaborative problem-solving. Leverage the support services provided by your course platform or institution, such as technical support or academic advising.

Conclusion

Online courses present unique opportunities for self-paced learning and personal growth. By setting clear goals, creating a productive study environment, actively engaging with course materials, and managing your time effectively, you can maximize your chances of acing online courses. Remember to stay motivated, seek support when needed, and make the most of the available resources. Embrace the flexibility and adaptability of online learning to achieve your educational goals.