Venture Concept No. 2

Opportunity 

There is no recycling pick up in Marion County, which creates an amazing opportunity. The only available options are the landfill and the small recycling trash cans at Publix. The environment is changing and more people are believing the effect humans have on the earth. Knowledge is readily available at the fingertips and I think people are more interested in recycling more than ever. Recycling can help reduce the effects of global warming significantly. I think the hardest part is conditioning people to use the service because even though people understand that global warming is real, ignorance still exists. When people start using the service I think they will be loyal. The reason being is because they will feel good about contributing to a healthier and green practice. This window of opportunity will last until someone created their own recycling venture. I would also try to strike a deal with the county so we can offer this service. 

Innovation 

The innovative service that I will be providing is curbside recycling pick up. This is not offered in the County. Instead of offering this service for a monthly or yearly fee. I want to get funding from the County to be able to offer this service for free. I want to be able to recycle as many items as possible. The service will be provided once a week. The pickup day will vary depending on location in the County. This service will also be provided to business owners as well. The service will also be using new recycling techniques.

Venture Concept 

Being funded by the County will make it easier to startup my venture. If I'm able to get this funding I won't have to worry about any competitors. People won't have to go out of their way to recycle, my service will come to them. I don't think I will have a problem with people switching if the serviced is offered for free. This venture will still have weaknesses and vulnerabilities. Many people today, still don't know how to properly recycle. That makes it very difficult for the service to run properly because of that. So, it will be our responsibility to teach everyone that's using the service on how to properly recycle.

Minor Elements 

My unfair advantage will be the funding from the County. Being able to get those funds will make startup easier and allows to stay afloat. As long as my venture does their job correctly, our funding should stop any competitor from gaining an edge in the service.

My next opportunity could be to start making items out of the recycled items. This opportunity can be focused on new and future customers. With the recyclables, you can make new shirts, foam packaging, and many other items.

In the next five years, I would like to expand and gain funding from other counties to start the service in their county. The more counties the better, I'm focused on make the environment cleaner. The earth is a beautiful place and it would be a shame for the human race to destroy it. As an entrepreneur, I would focus on projects that can possibly reverse the effect of global warming.

Feedback

I have gained some really good feedback that helped me revise the assignment. One of the ideas was that I should try to get the County to fund my service. Another was that it would be hard to convince to recycle.

So, based on the feedback what I have changed instead of charging for the service I will gain funding from the County.  This way people don't have to worry about affording the fee and everyone can recycle, the more the better.

Final Reflection

                                    


This entire semester has been a roller coaster for me, so it's a good thing that I love roller coasters. Even though I dread the struggles, something in me enjoys it at the same time. Struggling allows me to learn and improve. I hated doing the elevator pitches, but it has honestly made me improve on my conversational skills with people. This course has been one my favorites in my journey through college, also the Professor is cool.

I have gained a lot of experience this semester. The course has taught me it that it is ok to fail, but it's what you do after the failure that matters. That's going to stick with for a while, maybe forever. I'm proud that I was able to keep up the course load and get a good grade in the class. This course on top of my other courses has made it difficult, but I have succeeded.

I'm not sure if I would technically call myself an entrepreneur, but I have gained that mindset. If I wanted to be an entrepreneur I know where to start now. This course has given me the knowledge to succeed and to keep working through failure. I know where to look for opportunities.

To be successful in this class you have to PLAN ahead, emphasis on the plan. You have to make sure you have enough time to complete your assignments alongside your other classes. It's ok that you fail in your elevator pitches and have trouble with other assignments. The whole purpose of the class is to improve your entrepreneurial skills.

Your Exit Strategy

1&2.  I would want to keep this business venture in the family and pass it down to my children, that's ideal for me. The reason I chose that y venture is that I would love to have a family business You get to work closely with family and keeping the world cleaner and more sustainable while doing it. The children could come up with innovative ideas that change the way we recycle. Our family could be known as advocators for a healthier environment.

3. I think my exit strategy has influenced my venture. Not that I care about the money, but it would be nice for my family to not worry about it. So I guess that's why I would want my company to grow and expand into different cities. It's a dream of mine to run business with my children, maybe because that means I have succeeded in life and they will too.

Reading Reflection No. 3

Entrepreneur: Berry Gordy

What suprised me the most?
Berry Gordy started one of the biggest record labels called Motown at the age of 29 with an $800 loan. This is the record company who produced artists like Micheal Jackson, Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder, and other popular artists. With that said, the creation of Motown helped influenced the music desegregation. Berry Gordy is a legend and after reading his autobiography I can see why. He influenced popular music for generations, with his taste and love for music.
What about the entrepreneur did you most admire?
What I admire the most about Berry Gordy is how he made the company. He started the company with an $800 loan. He fought through adversity, but his passion for music drove him.
What about the entrepreneur did you least admire?
Even though he did great things to make the record label there has been many cases of his artists saying that he cheated them, he refuses. Even though he refused the charges, why would the artist assert such allegations if not true?
Did the entrepreneur face adversity/failure?
Absolutely, Berry Gordy founded Motown in the late 50s, the 50s were a rough time for minorities. He fought that through that adversity and created an all minority record label, which was the first one. Like I said before, he helped influence desegregation in music.


What competencies did you notice the entrepreneur exhibited?
Benny Gordy was innovative, but he also radically innovative. He created the first all-minority record label. He had an ear for great music and was able to create something special at Motown records.

Identify at least one part of the reading that was confusing to you.
At certain points in the book, it can get boring like most autobiographies( at least to me), which made parts hard to follow.

If you were able to ask two questions to the entrepreneur, what would you ask? Why? 
First question: How did you create something this special?
Second question: How did you find all of these talented artists?
I think these questions are important, Bery Gordy found many amazing artists and it's amazing. But, not only that that. He created a special innovative business that changed popular music forever.

What do you think the entrepreneurs opinion was of hard work? Do you share that opinion?
 He created one of the biggest record labels at the age of 29. I would agree that is hard work. Especially getting artists such as Micheal Jackson, Marvin Gaye, and Steven Wonder.

Celebrating Failure

1.  My failure deals with forces outside of class. I've been getting into the creation of music lately, mostly progressive types of metal, but other melodic genres. Examples include The Contortionist, Volumes, thenightyouleft (yes it's one word), and Saviour. I picked up learning the guitar and drums over a year ago, but I still consider myself a novice and not really great at either. With that said, I'm still learning and progressing at each. School has made it difficult because it's hard to find time to practice when you have friends and family. When I sit down to create something, my creativity seems to be sucked out of me. I understand that I won't be able to create anything technical, but I can play simple things that sound decent (at least to me).

2. What I've learned from this experience is that everything will be ok. It's not an ideal situation, but this failure could be something a lot worse. The good news is after school I will have more time to practice and create music that I love. I will continue to get better and work on my recording and mastering of music as a hobby.

3.  Of course, failure is dreadful, but it's apart of life and makes us better. I'm usually really harsh on myself after failure. Lately, I try to not let things bother me anymore emotionally because it's unhealthy. Family and friends get me through the difficult times. This class has shown me it's ok to fail, everyone fails, even the popular entrepreneurs. I have noticed myself taking risks more often than I have ever before. I'm not sure if the class has made me for confident or it's just me growing up.

What’s Next?

Existing Market

What's next for my recycling venture? I think there will be opportunities to grow and expand in the market. After discussing my venture with the three interviewees, they have given me their opinions on the matter. The interviewees think I should get ready to reduce prices, they think the $18 a month service may be a little pricey. They also talked about how expensive it may be to start up this venture, which is true. I asked, what should we plan for next as a company? They also said possibly expand, if the company succeeds. They didn't really have much more to offer than that. It's difficult to come up with other opportunities for recycling, but it's not impossible.

I think it would it be possible to grow and expand in the market. Reach other cities that don't provide people with curbside pickup. For this venture to grow I may need to reduce pricing. I would keep that in mind, but $0.60 a day is reasonable. For this venture to grow I will have to persuade future customers the benefits of recycling. With the internet, there are many ways to advertise a business.

The interviews helped me figure out what I need to expect. Their opinions are useful and can help contribute to making a stronger venture. I wish they would've given more information on venture though. But, I know it is tough to come up with other opportunities in this business. I know the opportunities are there I just have to find them.

New Market

My company would be in a business to consumer market, but with a radical change in markets, I would be a business to business market. For this venture to work I will have to obtain businesses to use my recycling service. This would be a mutual benefit.  During these interviews, I have received useful feedback. My service would allow these companies to be more sustainable. They could show their customers that they green practicing company by recycling. Also, I may need to find alternative recyclables instead of just paper, plastic, batteries, and aluminum 

I agree that my venture could help other companies practice green methods. Like the interviewees said, I could offer different types of recyclables. Some of these different types of recyclables could include rubber, glass, and metals. The more recyclables I can offer the more opportunities I have. 

This market is just as attractive and possibly even more than the business to consumer market. I may be able to grow faster as a company I can receive more opportunities in these businesses. The interviews helped shaped more of my venture and allowed me to think more over my concept. It was surprising that the interviews were that useful. It gave me fresher ideas to be more innovative.

Venture Concept No. 1

Opportunity

In Ocala, FL there is an absence of curbside recycling. Since there is no curbside pickup the alternative is the landfill, which is located on the outskirts of the city. Curbside pickup is a need amongst the people who would like to recycle, but don't have time to take the trip to the landfill. Like I said before, the alternative is the landfill. People are more interested in recycling compared to the past. With technology, news, and the internet, everyone is more aware of global warming and our human waste problem. It's easier to communicate the benefits of recycling. Recycling significantly can contribute to the reduction of greenhouse gasses. Now with the escalation of global warming, recycling is needed more than ever. With 75% of the waste being recyclable and only about 30% is recycled. This opportunity may not last forever, because the county may eventually try to fund their own program. I think would be loyal to recycling, when they see their contributions are keeping the county cleaner and more sustainable. Others would enjoy seeing the landfill reduce in size. Marion County is the biggest county in Florida. With that said, I think it is time for the county to be green. 

Innovation

The innovative service that I will be providing to clients is a curbside pickup of recyclables that include plastics, aluminum, batteries, and paper. This service will be offered at a price of $18, which is $0.60 a day. The yearly subscription of the service is $180, that is a savings of $36 a year. How does this service work? Every Thursday there will be a curbside of all the recyclables, the recycling bins will be provided. The company will be providing new ways of recycling, technology today has made recycling more effective. None of the operations will be radical for they have been done before in the business. The company will be using the latest recycling methods.

Venture Concept 

It may be difficult to get customers to use my service because they are not used to paying for recycling. The reason why they may switch from the usual landfill drop-off is that it can be time-consuming. Everyone doesn't have the capability to take their time out of the day to do recycling each week. We live face paced world now and people don't have time. The competitors include landfill and the small recycling bins at Publix. This venture has its weaknesses and vulnerabilities. Many people are still ignorant of global warming and the effectiveness of recycling. My service is also not free, the landfill offers the recycling for free. There are more strengths than weaknesses for this venture.

Minor Elements 

What sets me apart from competitors right now is the curbside pickup. The business niche will be the secret sauce for the company. The company will approach challenges and offer innovative types of recycling. This will make it harder for competitors. I want the company to have a clan structure, which is a family type culture in an organization. The company vision is to see a cleaner environment and for companies to be more sustainable.

My next opportunity could be to make products out of the recycled items. Recycled plastics can turn into shirts, sweaters, and even foam packaging. The recycled papers can be made into office paper, toilet paper, and cardboard. This opportunity could be targeted toward new and current customers. There are many things you could create with recycled items.

Where do I see myself in 5 years after venture launch? I would like to venture and other cities that don't have curbside pickup. The more people recycle the better. My vision is to see a healthier, cleaner environment. I want to help reverse global warming if possible and start getting rid of landfills. 

Your Venture’s Unfair Advantage

Venture Resources

• Resources: Social capital, Education, Business Plan, Recycling Method Ideas, Human Capital, Loan Startup Capability, Investor Capability, Growth Capability, Niche, Entrepreneurship.

VRIN Analysis

Social Capital
How is it valuable? 
It's important to be friendly and keep relationships internally and externally.
Rareness?
It's not rare for a company to have social capital.
Imitability?
It's not difficult to imitate this resource.
Non-substitutable?
There is no substitute for social capital.

Education
How is it valuable?
It's critical to have knowledge on the subject that you're managing your venture off of.
Rareness?
This is 50/50 because many people don't know the factual benefits of recycling and keeping the world clean. Competitors should know the benefits.
Imitability?
Education on the subject is not something you can just imitate. Is it possible to learn? Absolutely, it would just a lot of research and dedication.
Non-substitutable? 
You can't replace any other resource with education on the subject.

Business Plan
How is it valuable?
The business plan sets up my mission, vision, and goals as a company.
Rareness?
It would be rare for a competitor to have the same business plan as me. Especially the same mission, vision, and goals.
Imitability?
A competitor could imitate my business plan.
Non-substitutable?
The only substitute would be to not have a plan to successfully t startup the company.

Recycling Method Ideas
How is it valuable?
The innovative types of recycling methods including a bacteria method that devours the hardest plastics.
Rareness?
Some of the methods will be rare because it's new technology, but other methods won't be rare.
Imitability?
The recycling methods are definitely imitable.
Non-substitutable?
Each method could be replaced with another method, there's multiple ways to recycle an item.

Human Capital
How is it valuable?
It's important to invest in human capital because it contains the necessary knowledge and skills for the organization to succeed. Also, it's a strength in the SWOT analysis.
Rareness?
It's not rare for a company to invest and have human capital. It's important to have in an organization.
Imitability?
Every organization could imitate the idea of human capital, but they wouldn't have the same knowledge and skills as my company would.
Non-substitutable?
There is not a substitute for Human Capital.

 Loan Startup Capability
How is it valuable?
Being able to get a business loan is valuable to get the organization started.
Rareness?
It's not rare to get a business loan, many small companies start off this way.
Imitability?
Yes, it is imitable. Other companies can follow the same suit and get a startup loan.
Non-substitutable?

There is substitutes to a startup loan. You can have investors or even use your own money.

Investor Capability

How is it valuable?

It's ideal for a small company to have an investor at the startup,, so it makes it valuable.

Rareness?

It's not completely rare for a company to have investors.

Imitability?

You can't really imitate investor interests in a company. My company is definitely capable of getting an investor because of the lack of recycling in Ocala.

Non-substitutable?

There is substitutes to investments company.

Growth Capability

How is it valuable?

The ability for your company to grow is important, therefore valuable.

Rareness?

For some companies it can be hard for them to grow, so it can be rare, but not always.

Imitability?

Growth capability isn't something you can imitate.

Non-substitutable?

There is no substitute

Niche

How is it valuable?

A business niche is important to target specific market needs and demographics, including segments and price range.
Rareness?
It would be are for a company to have the same business niche as mine.
Imitability?
It is possible to imitate, but not likely. The competitor would want to have a different price range and probably focus on a different market than my company.
Non-substitutable?
A company doesn't need to have a niche and there is some alternatives.

Entrepreneurship

How is it valuable?

It's valuable to have the entrepreneurship state of mind because of wanting to be innovated and focused on opportunities. 

Rareness?

It can be rare to have that state of mind, it's not for everyone.

Imitability?

It would be hard to imitate the same ideas, but it's possible.

Non-substitutable?

There is substitutes to being a entrepreneur.

My business niche is the most important resource to me. The reason why is because my company niche is what makes the company different from the others. Focusing on different markets, having a different price range than competitors is just some examples. Our niche is focused on those who want a great recycling service, with the price around $15-$20 a month. We want to offer different types of recyclables. It want to also offer innovative ways of recycling.

Elevator Pitch No. 3

1. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QB4MY9GCcPQ&feature=youtu.be

2. The feedback was helpful once again. I didn't think there was any unreasonable advice. The entire group is really helpful when offering their opinion on the elevator pitch.

3. This time for my pitch I took feedback into consideration. I tried to record where there wasn't a window directly behind because there were lighting issues. The difficult part is that there is a window everywhere in the house, but I tried my best. With that said, I tried to make the pitch not sound like a speech, which was difficult when looking at a screen. I did feel more comfortable with the camera though because I have done this pitch a few times now. Thank you for the feedback, and look forward to more of it.

Reading Reflection No. 2

1) What was the general theme or argument of the book?

 Innovation and Entrepreneurship by Peter Drucker is about the strategies of leadership, the importance of innovation, being a proficient manager, and entrepreneurialism in business. Peter Drucker provides exceptional analysis and information into the business world.

2) How did the book, in your opinion, connect with and enhance what you are learning in ENT 3003?

Peter Drucker just gives excellent insight into ideas that we're already learning in the class. He talks about taking risks, being innovative, don't be systematic because it's boring.

3) If you had to design an exercise for this class, based on the book you read, what would that exercise involve?

My exercise would involve a group, and there would be questions that would ask each member for their innovated thought. After, the group could rate each other's thoughts. The purpose is to experience and exchange thoughts. There is no right or wrong answer in the exercise.

4) What was your biggest surprise or 'aha' moment when reading the book? In other words, what did you learn that differed most from your expectations?

The book was inspiring because Peter Drucker brings up how entrepreneurs keep the economy going. Even through recessions, especially in the 60s and 80s, where there was job growth from small and medium-sized businesses. 

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                               

Elevator Pitch No. 2

1. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KnKQUJXca14&feature=youtu.be



2&3. What stood out the most is how much everyone supported the video. I think everyone understands that not everyone will be a great public speaker on their first try. I didn't think any feedback was silly, most of it was useful. I know I needed to make the pitch longer, and that I needed to work on my tone. I can get anxiety sometimes for the most ridiculous reasons, but I always get through it, and you could see it in the video. For the next pitch, I tried to work on my tone, stance, length, and attitude. It still needs work, but I  think I have improved, and that is what matters to me. Thank you, classmates, for the feedback and I'm glad we get to work with each other for this semester.

Create a Customer Avatar

Hobbies: Hiking, Golfing, Fishing, Kayaking.
Vehicle (color: white, blue, green): High mpg or battery powered Sedan/Suv.
TV Shows: HGTV, History, Discovery, HBO, ESPN, CNN.
Children: Maybe
Favorite Books: Harry Potter, The Stand, Lamb.
Favorite Politicians:  Bernie Sanders, Ralph Nader, Barack Obama.
Age: 21-45

What do I have in common?
I enjoy golfing, kayaking, and fishing. I have a high mpg Ford Focus, but the color is silver. I don't really like watching HGTV OR CNN, but similarly, I like HBO, ESPN, Discovery, and History. I'm not really into reading books at the moment because the University requires so much of it already. Bernie Sanders was one of my favorite politicians in the past election, alongside Gary Johnson. I am 21 years old and I find all the similarities just coincidences. I don't think what a person likes and doesn't like gives an understanding of that person's ideology, well politically it does, but that's all. I grew up in a Republican household, but I grew up and forged my own ideologies. People can like different shows, vehicles, hobbies, politicians, and still would want to recycle.

Idea Napkin No. 2

1. Name: Christian Lawson
Skills/talents: Problem Solving, Collaborative, Adaptability, Focus, Work Ethic.

I have experience working in a doctor office and working outside for a utility company. My aspirations are still to graduate from the University of Florida and starting a career in the front office of a sports organization. Since I've always been inspired to help clean the environment because it's such a vital part of our humanity, my business would play a huge role in my life. It would be quite a change and responsibility, but worth it at the end ( hopefully).

2. My service will be providing customers with a curbside pickup that includes paper, plastic, aluminum, batteries, and glass. The idea is to inform the public of the importance and benefits of recycling. Eventually, if there's success, I would plan to branch out to different cities.

3. To be successful, I need to branch out to people who are concerned with pollution, waste, and the environment. Also, branch out to those who are opened minded to the idea of recycling. 

4. Customers would pay for this service because they know the importance of sustainable practices and a clean environment. Recycling significantly reduces pollution. It's also a convenient curbside pickup that includes paper, plastic, aluminum, batteries, and glass.

5. My service provides the convenient curbside pickup that no one else provides.

I can use my talents and skills to help gain customers for the business. Showing people the importance of customers can help persuade them into using my service. There can be some weak points. It may be hard to get people who don't usually recycle, pay for the service. Even though no one else provides curbside pickup, there is recycling at the dump that is free. It may be difficult to branch out to different counties too.

From the feedback, I know now that it will be a  tough startup. The service can't be too expensive and when successful I will branch out to different cities/counties. It will take a lot of resources, but everything is manageable. 

Figuring Out Buyer Behavior No. 2

 Interviewees

For this assignment my three chosen interviewees are once again people that fit the environmentalist segment.

Begin with alternative evaluation

For this recycling service, money does matter to the possible customers. The service needs to be reasonably priced, so the consumer can afford it because without the consumer there is no service. We need to have a functional customer service that provides that customer with all their needs. With any service, quality of work matters.

How/where do they buy?

For the actual transaction, the customer is likely to purchase this service online.We're now in the digital age, where many products and services are paid online. Another alternative for the transaction is to pay with cash/check, sent through mail.

Post-purchase evaluation.

When a customer purchases this recycling service, they gain the uplifting idea that they're assisting in the overall goal of environmental sustainability. If they purchase the service and doesn't feel positive about it, then it's possible they're on a budget. If that's not the case, then the service didn't provide enough for that customer.

Report the findings.

Through the three interviews, the evaluation proved that the customer cares about price, quality of service, and the customer service. They want to help reduce pollution, and the mountainous landfills that steadily increase each year. One of the interviewees said that by recycling, it helps reduce gas emissions, therefor helping climate change. The interviewees seemed as if they were people that are concerned for the environment and it's importance.

Draw conclusions.

Based on the interviews I have gathered impressions on the service. The service needs to focus on the service with the customer in thought, keep prices low, and paying online works the best. I think those three ideas will be critical for the service to keep afloat.

Halfway Reflection

1. Tenaciousness is a competency. What are the behaviors that you have used (or developed) to keep up with the requirements of this course? 

I've had to develop my planning skills and it's essential to the course because you're going to need to schedule around other courses. Being creative is another behavior that will help  because you'll be required to come up different opportunities that you think will help people. This course has also developed my communication skills. You will be required to create interviews for your assignments These are example of behaviors that I think are essential for this course. 

 2. Tenaciousness is also about attitude. Talk about a moment or two when you felt like "giving up." What pulled you through? Do you feel like you've developed a tenacious attitude during the past two months? What experience or experiences most contributed to this?

There was a couple moments that I wanted to "give up", but I'm a determined person. I may not be perfect, but there is one thing that I do do in in life and that's not giving up. I don't think I've developed a  tenacious attitude during the two months of the course because I've always been a determined person. Multiple assignments have contributed to this.

3.Three tips. What are three tips you would offer next semester's student about (1) fostering the skills that support tenacity and (2) developing the 'tenacious mindset' ?

My three tips would be plan ahead, stay motivated, and stay on schedule. Those three things are vital for success in the course and helps keep the tenacious mindset and supports tenacity.

Figuring Out Buyer Behavior No. 1

1.Segment:  I feel the best segment is to focus on the environmental conscious consumer. They'll provide the most support for the recycling opportunity.

2. Three Interviews: The first interviewee is an avid environmentalist who tries her best to stay green. She recycles regularly and believes it reduces pollution. The second interviewee ideology is that recycling will help reduce the size of landfills, she knows there can be cons. But, the positives outweighs the negatives. The last interviewee, also thought themselves as someone that is concerned for the direction of our environment. Each interviewee cared about recycling and the environment.

3. Awareness
First Interviewee: She becomes aware of the unmet need at her house because she does not receive recycle pick-up. She has to go the landfill to do her recycling and it becomes a nuisance. It's hard on her to recycle because she's busy with a full time job and family.
Second Interviewee: As she becomes aware that she needs recycle pick-up. She also notices all the plastics and paper people throw away in the garbage. Recycling can be hard because the landfill isn't close.
Third Interviewee: Just like the other interviewees he mostly notices this unmet need at home when he either forgets to recycle, or puts his recyclables in a bag to take off. He also thinks many that companies should join the more sustainable route and recycle.

4. Information Search:  All three interviewees have noticed that Marion County doesn't offer curbside pick-up and none of them have used to search for alternatives. Like most families, they do have conversations about sustainable solutions. All three believe that recycling is a small step in the right direction.

5. Report: What I have concluded is that curbside pick-up is a simple solution for the county. It will help with sustainability and hep reduce the size of the landfill. Offering customers this unmet need would reduce pollution in the city, and give them a chance to recycle more.  Many of the interviewees have trouble recycling because many of them are immersed in the daily life.

6. Conclusion: By engaging toward the environmentalist that truly care about recycling is one of the best approaches. I've noticed that didn't look for advertising on the internet, so I would have to find a better approach to find customers that have the unmet need. These interviews have showed me that people that have the green "ideology" are the group that will be most of the customer base. So, by advertising the positives of recycling and getting businesses to join will help get a better range of future customers.

Idea Napkin No. 1

    My name is Christian Lawson. 

Skills/talents: Time management, Adaptability, disciplined, Collaborative, Problem solving.

My experiences include two-years of being an office assistant and six months of driving for a utility company. My aspirations is to get a degree in business administration and start a career in the front office of a sports organization. If I would to start my recycling business, it would  change my life. I would have to put all of my effort in this project trying to find customers and investors.

2. My service will be providing customers curbside pick-up that includes paper, plastic, aluminum, batteries, and glass.

3. I want to reach the people who are interested in cleaning the atmosphere and people that have an open mind to the idea of recycling. The people would want to reduce pollution, and waste disposals.

4. They will want to use the service because they care about the environment.

5. What sets me apart is the curbside pick-up that no one else offers. Also, nobody has my commitment for satisfaction for the customer.

I believe that these element do go well with the aspects of the business concept. The skills would help jump-start the business. If anything goes wrong during the process my adaptability and problem solving skills will provide help. I don't see there being any weak points because there isn't any competition for road-side recycling. To help find customers I will need to work on my communications skills to clearly and effectively persuade them about the benefits of recycling.

Reading Reflection No. 1

 

1. What surprised you the most?

Elon Musk's was persistent with his goals, he never gave up. There was times that his financial situation was not in the best condition because of money-pit startups. His willingness to keep funding and making these projects work is nothing short of being remarkable.

What about the entrepreneur did you most admire?

I admire his innovated thinking that could change the world. His goal is to make humanity sustainable on earth.
What about the entrepreneur did you least admire?

There is talk that he criticized a employee because he witnessed the birth of his child instead of going to a Tesla event. Also, I'm not sure if he respects women because he said that they should only need about 10 hours a week of attention.
Did the entrepreneur encounter adversity and failure? If so, what did they do about it?

Elon Musk indeed fought against adversity and failure. He fought through financial recession and there was times that he though he would have to give up projects. Instead he found ways to get contracts, so he can keep both Tesla and Space x open.

2. What competencies did you notice that the entrepreneur exhibited?
He was amazing at problem solving, leadership, communication, and innovation.

3. Identify at least one part of the reading that was confusing to you.
The chronological order of some of his successes could be quite confusing at points.

4. If you were able to ask two questions to the entrepreneur, what would you ask? Why?
My first question would be "What motivates you?" and " How much time do you take to develop these opportunities?". I would ask these questions because I think motivation is important, just as the time to put in an idea before you scrap it.


5.What do you think the entrepreneur's opinion was of hard work? Do you share that opinion?

I don't know if it's necessarily an opinion, but Musk wants to save the world with his technology. I would agree that is hard work. To make innovative ideas that would contribute to the success of reversing the decay of the world would be astonishing and impractical.

Elevator Pitch No. 1

Testing the Hypothesis, Part 2

Interviews 

First: The 54 year-old father knows that there is a recycle center that is located on maricamp road, but never recycles. He doesn't know the beneficial aspects of recycling. He has family members that do recycle, but defines them more as a "hippies".  If given the chance of recycle pick-up, he would probably not pay for it because he doesn't see the need for it. He would be open to see how it would be beneficial to him.

Second: This interviewee is a 23 year-old mother, who believes that recycling can help clean the environment. She goes to the recycling center when able, but it's not often because she has the baby.If given the opportunity to pay for recycling pick-up, she would take up that offer. When asked if she thinks people are misinformed about benefits, she thinks that people can be ignorant to some facts.

Third: The 22 year-old male only recycles because his girlfriend gets on to him for throwing away recyclables . He usually has to drop of trash and his recyclables to the dump. He doesn't live that far away from the dump, but said it be nice if he didn't have to do it himself. He knows that there can benefits, but describes himself as lazy, and only really does it so he doesn't makes girlfriend upset.

Fourth: Another woman who is 34 of age has two daughters and she wants to recycle more of her plastics and aluminum cans. She is not sure if paying for recycle pick-up will fit in her budget. She understands the benefits of recycling and believes that it would be good for the county because the landfill is getting massive.

Fifth: The 76 year-old female recycles, but she only does it when her sons are able to bring it the landfill. She's not capable of driving herself because of health issues. She says that she realized how much recyclables was throw away in day and that made her think of this need. If given the chance she would pay for the pick-up. She also doesn't know the benefits of recycling, except she knows it's good for resources.

Summarize 

The interviews allowed me to see that people are need of learning the benefits of recycling.  Once again, people do think there is need of recycling pick-up in Marion County. It also seems that if people don't feel like it benefits them anyway, that they don't feel the need. There could be some complications for getting customers.

Inside the boundary Who's in: People who aware of the benefits of recycling and those who can afford it. What the need is: The need is the curb side pick-up recycling, also the information of benefits. Why the need exists: The need exists because the county does not provide it's citizens of recycling options. Outside the boundary Who is not: People who aren't aware of the beneficial effects of recycling and those who can't afford it in their budget. What the need is not: Since people are ware that there is a landfill that provides recycling( but not pick-up) they may not need the curb side pick-up. Alternative Explanations: The alternatives is to either drive to the landfill or not recycling at all.

Solving The Problem

Selected Opportunity 

In Ocala and many other cities don't provide the public with efficient recycling pick-up options or no recycling options. Many people don't want go to the landfill to recycle because of location or they simply are too busy. The opportunity is a service that will provide reasonable pricing curb side pick-up options. Keeping the environment is important to me and many others, so I am certain that this opportunity exists. 

Service

Providing locals with reasonable monthly or yearly pricing for recycling pick-up. The different types of recycle pick-up options would include plastic, paper, aluminum, batteries, and glass. There will be a weekly pick-up of the recyclables, unless the customer wants to choose the every two week pick-up option at a cheaper price.This service will also be offered to businesses that are interested in being green. The mission of this opportunity/service is to provide the customers with options that will make them happy and to reduce the amount of pollution in the environment.

Testing the Hypothesis, Part 1

The Opportunity 

In Ocala, there is an inefficient amount of recycling for citizens because there isn't any house pick-up. 

The Who: Citizens of Ocala

The What: Inefficient amount of recycling

The Why: There isn't any house pick up

The Tests

Testing the Who: Yes, others have this need. Many people want to recycle, but they don't want the inconvenience of going to the landfill to recycle.

Testing the What:  People may not like the recycle pick up because they don't to pay the extra money for it.

Testing the Why: There may be reasons why there isn't any recycle pick up. Citizens may not want to pay for it. It's possible that the process separating glass, plastic, ext is to not followed correctly by citizens.

The Interviews 

First: This interviewee is a 23 year-old female that likes the idea of recycling. She doesn't like going out of her way to recycle, so she never recycles. She would be interested in the possibility of recycling if there was pick-up. She also explained that it would need to be reasonably priced, if it's too expensive then she wouldn't be interested. It's not a huge need for her, but she does believe that recycling helps the environment.

Second: The 32 year-old male says that he hasn't really thought about recycling and he's not sure if he would. I asked if the pick-up was at a reasonable price, would he still be interested? He said it's possible, but it would depend on his budget. He does think that recycling is important and that people should do it, including himself. He has never thought it was need and he has never gone out of his way to recycle.

Third: I interviewed a 38 year-old male and he does recycle at times, but only when he goes to the landfill to get rid of leaves, beds, ext. At a reasonable price, he would be interested paying for recycle pick-up. The male only would recycle plastic because he doesn't usually have enough glass products to get rid of. He does think it's a need and supports the solution.

Fourth: The 30 year-old female would be very interested in recycling pick-up. She has lived in other cities where she had the option to pay for pick-up in the past. The women also thinks that it be provided by the county for free, but of course that's not happening. She doesn't recycle now because the landfill is in the outer city and it's too much of a drive. She would be all for the pick-up, especially if the price is reasonable. She started getting into recycling in her mid 20's because she's getting tired of seeing gigantic landfills. She knows it's a need and wants to help the environment by recycling.
Fifth: The 43 year-old mom has been interested in recycle-pick up, since she noticed all of the cans she has been throwing away in the trash. She stated that her son drinks sodas and her boyfriend drinks canned beers, so there's quite a bit in quantity. Even though she lives close to the landfill, she doesn't recycle. The woman does think it's need in the community. If the price was reasonable enough that she could afford the pick-up, she would probably take advantage of it. She would be interested in aluminum and plastic recycling.

Summarize 

The opportunity still exists after gaining feedback from the interviewees. I would just have to make sure it's convenient and make sure the price is affordable.  I think that a lot of people of the community don't go out of their to do things, especially recycling because it doesn't feel too much of a need. There should be some information sharing to help customers see the benefits of recycling and how much they could make a difference. With anything else, feedback has showed me what needs to be tweaked. I honestly didn't think that many people cared about recycling.

Identifying Opportunities in Economic & Regulatory Trends

Economic Trends

 First Opportunity

In a world of technology, AI has been gaining a lot of steam and is trendy. I believe that an opportunity exists amongst the google homes and Alexa's. How I perceived this opportunity is by reading about how popular AI is now, especially with the home technology goods. The prototypical customer for a device that is similar to an google home or Alexa would be between 15-60 in age. It would be rather difficult to exploit this opportunity because you will have competition with some top technology companies. I formed this belief by seeing what is around me, technology is everywhere. Many people that I know have similar products and there isn't that much competition, but they are some heavyweights in their division.

Second Opportunity 

There has been a lot of natural disasters and even though it's terrible, opportunities exist there. I read articles about all of the disasters that have been happening and how many cities are still in rebuilding mode. Living in Florida and seeing the effects of these disasters has helped for me see the opportunity. After being affected by a disaster, the market would be searching for people to rebuild. A prototypical customer would be someone that has been affected by a natural disaster. I think it would be easy to exploit because there will always be disasters. With the outcome of a disaster, there will always been a need for rebuilding. My step father use to run a business similar too this, and it has helped me come up with the opportunity.

Regulatory Changes

Third Opportunity

There has been deregulation's happening to areas of environmental protections. With these protections being deregulated, there will be opportunities. I've gained this information from articles and governmental websites. I think this opportunity will exist because even though there are deregulation's of the protection for the environment, people will still want the protections to be done. I likely customer for this opportunity would be someone that is interested in saving/protecting the environment. I'm a big believer in environmental protections and that's what helped with this opportunity. Without these protections, animals could go instinct. I think this opportunity would be easy to exploit because I think people care about the earth and there isn't much competition.

Fourth Opportunity 

With many states now legalizing cannabis, there may be opportunities. The market won't be huge and there may be some needs. I gained this information by reading articles and looking at all the states that are looking to legalize cannabis. A prototypical customer would be someone that has medical issues, or even someone that wants to do it recreationally. There's many advocates for this change and after seeing so many approve has led me to this opportunity. The opportunity would be easy to exploit because of the amount of advocates there are. I have family members that live out of state that do cannabis recreationally legally in there states and I know people who use it for medical here in Florida. By just seeing the vast numbers of people that use cannabis, has helped meme think of the opportunity .

Identifying Local Opportunities

Opportunity 1

Early Storms whets state's expectations - Summer is season of discontent for dogs terrified of thunder http://infoweb.newsbank.com.lp.hscl.ufl.edu/resources/doc/nb/news/16C348DEF70BF6F8?p=WORLDNEWS

 The article explains how petrifying thunder can be to dogs and how some owners cope with the problem. Some owners use sweaters, pills, gels, and other products to help their furry friend. Thunderstorms are a common phobia for dogs and it often takes multiple tries to find a solution.
The problem is that dogs freak out during thunder storms, leaving the owner stressed out trying to comfort their dog. 

Opportunity 2

Rainy days mean more encounters with snakes

http://infoweb.newsbank.com.lp.hscl.ufl.edu/resources/doc/nb/news/16C24D90CF478790?p=WORLDNEWS

 Since it has been raining a lot lately, snakes have been slithering their way out their burrows looking for drier land. The snakes are causing a nuisance and they can be a problem, since some of there are poisonous. The problem is the snakes coming out looking for drier land because of all the rain. People who's surroundings are getting flooded by rain may have this problem.

Opportunity 3

We need to transform our communities to address sea-level rise

http://infoweb.newsbank.com.lp.hscl.ufl.edu/resources/doc/nb/news/16C3858191F66380?p=WORLDNEWS

 South Florida has been experiencing the effects of climate change. Waters are rising and it's effecting the local communities. The purpose of the article is to inform of the effects and how people locally and globally should start advocating for the future. The sea has risen by nine inches in the last 100 years and it's projected to rise three foot in south Florida by 2060.The problem concerns people locally and globally.

Opportunity 4

Acid reflux might be cause of kids' runny noses, specialist say

http://infoweb.newsbank.com.lp.hscl.ufl.edu/resources/doc/nb/news/16C3F4AD3B8198C8?p=WORLDNEWS

 

 Specialist say that reflux is often misdiagnosed with other problems like asthma, cough, even nasal congestion. To help the children, parents need to pay attention to their diets to maintain the amount of sugary and acidic foods they eat. Specialist just want to give awareness to the parents and they encourage them to pay attention. The problem is that kids are being misdiagnosed with other sicknesses, even though it's acid reflux. Parents and the children are the ones presented with the problem.

Opportunity 5

Ban sought on sunscreen chemicals 

http://infoweb.newsbank.com.lp.hscl.ufl.edu/resources/doc/nb/news/16C34A07E8F5F640?p=WORLDNEWS

 There will be a ban on a chemical that are called oxybenzone and octinoxate. These chemicals have been studied and it is said that the chemicals are bleaching the coral reefs. About 70% of sunscreens contain these chemicals, which will be a drastic change for them, if the vote goes through to ban the chemicals. The ban on these chemicals, may also make the sunscreen less effective on people. The problem is the chemicals destroying the coral reef ecosystem. People and ecosystems are presented with problem of the chemicals oxybenzone and octinoxate.

Forming an Opportunity Belief: A Twist on Opportunity Identification

Belief

  There has been a fair amount of rain lately, which is making it inconvenient to mow the lawn. I was contemplating an idea. The idea was the ability to mow the lawn without getting wet or demolishing the equipment. It would be similar to a Roomba, but it would mow the lawn and be weather resistant. The need for that type of equipment is extensive, especially in today's society where everyone wants to salvage money. The opportunity could be used for people, who are on a schedule, have families or even the incapable. The need for equipment that could withstand the damage of weather and be entirely robotic, without the use of a person has existed for a long period of time. To meet this need now people have to withstand the natural occurrences of weather and carry out the process. Everyone has to get their lawn mowed. I am about 70% sure the opportunity exists in the world.

Prototypical Customer #1 

  The first prototypical customer is a 32-year-old male, who works 50 hours a week and has a family. His need for this solution is of great importance because it would be a solution that would be useful for him. Since he works many hours, has a family, and doesn't have that much time to do maintain the lawn it would make it easier for him. The male says he lives in a neighborhood that has an HOA, which he has to maintain the lawn to specific standards and when it rains for days it makes mowing difficult. He has noticed the need for a long period of time, but he only needs the solution sometimes. To address their need as of now, he has to wait till he has time and when there's no rain. The male would be interested in the solution because he says "he would never have to mow again".  

Prototypical Customer #2

  The second prototypical customer is a 53-year-old female, who has medical issues(spine) and works about 30-35 hours a week. The solution is of greater need because with her medical issues she can't mow the lawn herself. She has to pay someone else to do it or get a family member if they have time. She became aware of the need since she has been aging and her medical problems haven't allowed her to mow the lawn. She hasn't always needed the solution because she enjoys the outdoors and didn't mind when it rained, but as of now, it's a need. The 53-year-old female would be ecstatic for the solution, she could get her lawn mowed with a push of a button, without the worry of weathering of the equipment.

Prototypical Customer #3

The third prototypical customer is a 22-year-old male, who works about 40 hours a week. The solution isn't substantially needed but could be useful when it rains or when he's occupied. He hasn't acknowledged the need for a solution. Right now the male has to simply mow, even when it starts raining he says he usually just finishes unless it's too bad. Even though he mows the lawn, the solution would make it where he doesn't have to worry about doing the work by himself. He also explained that he wouldn't have to worry about the weathering of his equipment since it would be weather resistant. The male would be content with the solution and thought it was an interesting idea.

Reflection 

I've learned that this opportunity could be seriously pursued through the evaluations and opinions of the prototypical customers. From the perspective of all three, the solution seemed like an interesting idea and it helps with their situations. Some prototypical customer may enjoy doing their lawncare themselves, but the solution would help if they were occupied,  having weather problems, or even incapable of the doing the lawn. I was surprised to hear such positive feeback from the solution. It seems that the solution could be effective.

Summarize

How much of your original opportunity is still there?

The opportunity is still there, but it may need some tweaking to make reach more possible customers( younger adults). It seems that the solution is not a need for people who are capable of doing the lawn themselves, but with the equipment being weather resistant it gains positive feedback. I'm still optimistic about the opportunity still existing.

Do you believe that your new opportunity is more accurate than when you started?

Yes, I believe the opportunity is more accurate now after gaining the feedback to perfect the solution. Now I know I have to appeal to the younger generation for this product because they often don't see the need. Older adults often don't mind to mow, but the solution makes it easier for their schedules or incapabilities.

How much do you think entrepreneurs should 'adapt' their opportunities based on customer feedback?

I think entrepreneurs should always adapt their opportunities to the customer feedback because they're the ones using it. It helps perfect the solutions to the needs, which creates a stronger opportunity.

My Entrepreneurship Story

My Entrepreneurship Story

    Since I was a kid I've been exposed to different entrepreneurs that include my Grandpa, Step-Dad, and Uncle. It has always been an exciting experience to be able to learn and be around the businesses. I don't remember that much about my Grandpas business because I was only a little kid, but I do remember the building and the smell of styrofoam. On the other hand, I recall a lot from my Step-Dads business. The reason why is because he would take me around to see houses his company has fixed and sometimes I would even help. As for my Uncle, he once ran a cabinet shop. I wasn't around that much for that though, but there were times I went to the offices and have been around the customers. In a way, I suppose that's why I am going to school as a Business Administration major. Experiencing my family running different businesses has always interested me and to see family succeed is a wonderful feeling.

   

    Enrolling in ENT 3003

    Why did I enroll in ENT 3003? The reason why I enrolled in the class was to obtain the credit for my major(stated above).  I wouldn't say that's the only reason why because the class itself seemed quite interesting. To be able to learn and observe the world from a different point of view, well an entrepreneur view to be exact is helpful in this economy.

BUG LIST

                           BUG LIST

1.      The traffic on Maricamp in Ocala, Fl is always busy between 7-9 am and 2-4 pm.

Why: There are two high schools and many businesses, which people are going/leaving.

2.      Making cereal in the morning, but there’s little to no milk left.

Why: There are roommates and we forgot to announce that we need more milk when it was getting low.

3.      Going to bed and realizing that there is dirt all over the bed.

Why: Kodiak(dog) likes to run and dig holes in the dirt, then when he comes back inside he enjoys getting cool on the bed.

4.      Mowing the lawn, then it starts pouring rain.

Why: Being unprepared and not checking the weather channel for natural occurrences of weather in Florida.

5.      Using the bathroom and there is no toilet paper in there, so you call someone to grab some for you.

Why: Not checking the bathroom beforehand to see if you need a resupply.

6.      During a road trip that only takes a few hours makes stop multiple times for bathroom breaks.

Why: Drinking too many liquids before a road trip and/or not going to the bathroom before the trip started.

7.      Watching your favorite TV show/series, then the power shuts off.

Why: The power surged, or they may be a storm outside that cuts the power off.

8.      Listening to music on your phone, then the music starts to buffer.

Why: Not having good service or they could be a dead spot in that area.

9.      Walking to the bathroom at night and stubbing your toe on the way.

Why: Being incoherent from waking up or not being careful walking in the dark.

10.  The laptop dying while you’re doing work or watching videos.

Why: Not checking the battery to see if the laptop needs charging.

11.  Sweating profusely in the middle of the night that makes it hard to sleep.

Why: The air is up too high or maybe the blankets are thick. Also, having a fever is a possibility.

12.   Trying to take a hot shower, but it has run out and the water is ice cold.

Why: Could use another water heater or the other users before just used up all the hot water.

13.   Trying to do some school work, so you turn on your computer and then it starts updating.

Why: The computer didn’t finish the updates the day before or never checked to see if the computer needed any updates.

14.  Trying to wash a pan, but the new food on the pan is stuck and won’t come off.

Why: After the food was cooked in the pan it wasn’t washed instantly or wasn’t left soaking in water after the use of the pan.

15.  As you’re driving you put in your favorite cd and the cd starts to skip because it is scratched.

Why: Not properly putting the cd back in its case so it can be safe from any possible objects that will scratch the cd.

16.  Going to Universal and being charged $20 for parking just to pay more money to go inside the park.

Why: The money for parking could help pay for the salaries of the employees that direct traffic safely, so you can enjoy yourself at the park.

17.  Making some popcorn and when you start eating it you accidentally bite a kernel.

Why: Eating too fast and not checking to see if you picked up a kernel.

18.  Going to class on a rainy day and when you get back in the car to leave the battery is dead, so a jump start is needed.

Why: Forgetting to turn the headlights off when getting out of the car or not properly keeping up with the maintenance of the car.

19.  Going on a rollercoaster that makes you dizzy and nauseous.

Why: Not taking any Dramamine to prepare for the day at the theme park and not reading the ride side effects.

20.  Going to Universal during the week and the lines are still an hour long.

Why: Kids may be off from school and could have avoided the lines with a fast pass.

Reflection

            The bug list was indeed a difficult assignment to complete because you don’t notice the things that bother you, well it did with me at least. I would do a couple bugs each day so I wouldn’t get frustrated. The last five bugs were the hardest part of the entire assignment. It was an interesting assignment to complete because you never think “why does this happen?”. The assignment makes you look at things in a different perspective and gives you a different outlook. After going out to different places you get to notice the things that bother you and after trying to pinpoint the bugs it becomes easier. With more practice I can see that there would be a progression of skill calling the bugs out, also you could find solutions for the bugs.