Organizational Behavior Assignment

Since this business has been around and owned by my family for over 40 years, we still have leadership harries from 40 years ago that has kept them going for so long. We have adapted new leadership theories from the times changing but most of them have stuck. The owner in our business it not really a leader, since she is retired from her other job, it is up to the manager to lead the employees in the right direction. Some of the aspects of leadership that has stuck with the business over the years would be, what the main focuses are (the customers), the training process and how the manager interacts with the employees.In this business it is like a family so there is a close relationship between the anger and the employees. I believe the theory that best goes along with this family business would be a combination of traditional and contemporary. We have many factors of the traditional but also contemporary because we are always trying to keep up with what is going around us but we als o are stuck with the old leadership from 40 years ago that has gotten us this far in the business. Overall, each leadership will work but for different businesses. You need to find the one that will work the best for you business.Working at a family business creates a lot of stress for not only the family UT the employees also. Since there is only five employees it is hard to get off or call in sick at times; this causes stress between the employees and we have been able to figure a way out to create less stress. We have a sheet where people can list when they need off and another list that people can sign up for the hours that are going to need to be filled. It is almost as if the employees have control but we just put the outline there. Next there is the job roles, each and every person does everything, not just one part.This causes stress sometimes because the employees are not sure what to do first hen there is so much work to get done. We recently fixed this problem, making a l ist of priorities. So when there are many tasks to get done they know what to do first and then they can work their way down the list Also we have made it so if they do not get something done, that list gets passed down to the next shift. I have noticed that this has lifted a lot Of stress Off of all the employees because they have some type of structure and order. The one good aspect that I have noticed in this business is that there are great working conditions.Customers and employees have mentioned that they love working here because of the working conditions and they feel safe and their moods are brought up. The next part of stresses would be within each worker themselves. This honestly has been a hard one to overcome with this business. The top one would be type of personality; the manager here has the type of personality that it is their way or no way. That is good that they have a strong head on their shoulders but that is not always good for a business. When she is around ev erything gets done but all the employees are extremely stressed out when she is here.We have tried to fix this problem but it has not been successful. This is why family business can be hard to work for sometimes, each family member has their own personality and sometimes it clashes and it would be hard on the family if you had to fire them. Other than the type of personality, the individual stresses are not really an aspect at this business. Overall, stresses are a huge part in a business and the faster you catch it the easier it is to fix the problem or work with it to work around it. Group work is a large part in any business.For Franks Beer Stein, it makes up the whole business; since there are no specific tasks dedicated to any specific person, it all takes teamwork to get everything done. We have many steps to make sure everyone is working together; the top one would be everyone's mood that day. We have a policy that you leave your problems at the door unless it deals with wor k itself. If you have a problem with work you can either call the manager or the owner to talk about the problem. This has seemed to work so far, and there has been a huge turn around while everyone is working together.Next would be make a list of what needs to get done and you assign people to do a certain task so everyone knows what each person is doing and does not get frustrated when you do not know where everyone is. Finally, like mentioned before, if the list is not completed by the time your shift is over, that is k, you hand it off to the next shift and so forth. This way it relieves the stress of having to get everything done and rushing instead of taking your time and doing it correctly. Overall, that is not many steps but being a small business it has seemed to work wonderful here ND could possibly work at other companies.There are many potential sources of conflict within a group; these link with the five conflict management styles. The first one is competing; this would be when the workers are competing to either finish first or do a better job. Either way the work is not going to be done the way it should on one of the sides. Also, this would not be working together in a group but working against each other, which from experience does not turn out to be good. Next there is compromising; this would be where to parties would not agree and end up owing to an agreement which they would fall short on each side because they had to come to an agreement.I have never experienced this at my work but if it came to that no one would be making progress so there would have to be changes. Then there is avoiding which I have seen many times and it always has ended horribly. When two or more people would avoid someone because of either they did not get along or they are avoiding a problem that is going on. This overall is not a good thing if you are avoiding something or someone that means something is not getting done at your job and it could urn out with someon e getting fired just because of not facing the problem but rather avoiding it.Next there is accommodating; when you are doing things the way someone else says and it could be working against your full potential. Finally there is collaborating this could be good and it could also be bad. This would be teamwork but two people coming together to work on both of your tasks. This could take up more time because you both are working on one task at a time but it also could make sure you are doing everything correctly because you have two eyes on what you are working on.Overall, most of these management styles are huge conflicts but some can also be good at times to. There are many barriers in communication but there is always a way to fix it. One barrier would be cultural; this is when Someone knows their own culture but not another persons, this could lead to them understanding something differently then one another. This could highly impact teamwork because if a task is said and they mea n one thing but the other person heard it differently, this could impact the relationship and business.The one person would think hat they did it wrong but they could have done exactly what they heard and understood. One way of addressing this would be writing things down and showing at the same time. This will make sure they understand because they will see what you said and physically see what to do, this will limit a lot of problems with cultural barrier. Another barrier would be biases; this would be if someone does not talk to another person because they think that they will not understand or agree with us. This aspect is very common and could effect the teamwork.If you are working with a couple people and you always talk to the same person because in your conscious you know that they are most likely to understand you the most, other employees could see this and it could cause a problem. I have personally seen this happen is my work, with different ages and different genders of the employees. Other employees might get mad or think that you do not like them which would create a whole different situation. A way to solve this would be try' to see who you talk to the most and try and talk to everyone else instead, equally.It would make everyone feel like they are involved and that you do not just favor one person over the rest. Overall, most businesses have these communication problems and there are many different ways to work around them and fix them. But if you do not fix them when they first start happening it could grow into a much larger problem and would be so much more stress on the whole company. Furthermore, there are many problems and conflicts that can come across in every business. Many people thin their lifetime will see most of them and might not even realize what the true problem is.

Guns, schools and criminal minds Essay

Due to a massive shootings events in the last years, we, the people have been wondering â€Å"Is it a good idea to have guns in our children’s school? I’ve always believe that schools are the safest places in the world, until December 14, 2012, when 20 years old Adan Lanza fatally shot twenty children and 6 adult staff members at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut. Now, do you feel safe when leaving your child at school? and, would you agree in sending your children off to a place full of guns? David Thweatt, superintendent of schools in Harrold, Texas, described how his small rural district implemented a plan to allow some staff members to carry concealed weapons in addition to other security members. Mr. Thweatt emphasizes that they are at least half-hour away from closest law enforcement ofï ¬ cials, they believe that they have done everything possible to protect their children. This plan is called â€Å"The Guardian Plan†. Many people thi nk that the world without guns would be a world at peace, this people claim that they love their children enough to not want them to go to school prisons. Plenty of new issues can emerge while teachers carry guns, who is going to protect them if a teacher lose control? Different opinions say that having an armed staff of educators will only increase the problem, they think that bad people are the problem and government should focus on create better and smarter solutions to keep bad people off to schools. According to teachers, they feel offended when someone scoff the idea of a teacher being trained to use a ï ¬ rearm, they already have much to deal with, such a crowd control, conï ¬â€šict resolution, and maintain order amidst chaos. Unfortunately, Mr. Thweatt’s is not very popular on educators†¦ However, a job as a teacher does not require to be armed, they have enough responsibilities to in addition put the weight of carrying a ï ¬ rearm over their shoulders. These money may well be used to buy books, pencils, electronic equipment, to keep classes that have been suspended due to lack of income, and some other needs that we all know most school have. On the other hand, the tragic situation in Sandy Hook Elementary has changed many people’s mind. Having a good guy adequately trained would be a great way to keep terrorist off schools and most important to keep children safe. As long as all the staff involved had passed all different kind of tests, it should be an idea to considerate. We need immediate solutions, and since NRA will always support our â€Å"gun culture†, and acquiring a gun has only became easier we need something that work, something that give us peace every time we leave our kids at school. The Guardian Plan may be our best bet to avoid, and be aware of catastrophic act of terrorist. At the same time that I believe guns against guns are only more death and danger, I also believe that we are not in a position to decline systematized plans that will keep our children protected. Many people might believe that the children would be living on the edge while being in a guns environment, for now, and until our society shows progress, I will be strongly agree with the idea of having schools prepared to any kind of terrorist attack.

Current and Future Market Trends Essay

When thinking of wireless phone or internet service, the first company that probably comes to mind is Verizon Wireless. Verizon officially became a force to be reckoned with in the wireless market in 2000 when Verizon communications and Vodafone merged. Verizon states, â€Å"Verizon Communications Inc., headquartered in New York, is a global leader in delivering broadband and other wireless and wire line communications services to mass market, business, government and wholesale customers.† Since entering the market in 2000, Verizon has made itself popular by offering service in more areas than any other wireless network. Market Structure Within economics, four types of market structures exist. The four types are: monopoly, monopolistic competition, perfect competition, and oligopoly. Colander (2008) describes market structure as, â€Å"the physical characteristics of the market within which firms interact.† Verizon Wireless’ market structure can be defined by a combination of monopolistic competition and oligopoly. Colander (2008) defines monopolistic competition and oligopoly as, â€Å"a market structure in which there are many firms selling differentiated products and few barriers to entry—and oligopoly — a market structure in which there are only a few firms and firms explicitly take other firms’ likely response into account. The wireless industry is smaller that people think and not much competiton exists. For example: Cingular and AT&T are both wireless carriers, but Cingular is a part of AT&T. Essentially, when a consumer spends money with Cingular, it still goes to AT&T. Using an oligopoly structure has worked well for Verizon in the past and currently. Current and future market trends should not have any affect on the market structure of Verizon. New Companies Competition in the wireless industry has always been tough. It seems as though every month or few weeks, a new phone or new service is being unveiled by a well-know company or a company trying to get started. Besides  Alltell, Verizon is usually the company the competition seeks to compete with. To compete with Verizon most companies offer a service similar to Verizon for a cheaper price, or they offer a similar phone for a cheaper price. Verizon would not be affected heavily by any new companies entering the market, because Verizon is already established and consumers are already familiar with the brand. Aside from that, Verizon offers a number of services and slogans to keep their consumers interested. Some of the slogans used are: America’s largest and most reliable network, #1 in customer loyalty, and the worry free guarantee. Verizon does not have to worry about the competition, the competition should worry about Verizon. Prices One of the downsides to having wireless services and phones is the price. Since the introduction of cell phones, the price of phones and the price of service have risen significantly. On average, a contract for cell phone service with two lines would cost anywhere from $160 – $250, depending on the services the customer chooses. That price does not include the price of the phone which could be anywhere from $50 – $900. The prices to maintain the convenience of a cell phone are ridiculous, but it is a necessity that most individuals find it hard to live without. The current and future trend of the wireless industry shows the price of services and phones increasing. With that being said, despite the prices of phones and service, consumers will continue to pay the prices set by Verizon and other wireless companies. Technology Cell phones and services have definitely evolved over the years. Technology is one of the leading factors when consumers consider purchasing a phone or selecting a company as their wireless provider. Most cell phone users use text messaging, check email, and log onto social networking sites like facebook and myspace from their mobile phones. Like any other invention cell phones have evolved and become an important part of our lives. Televisions went from just being in homes to our cars. Computers were usually found in places such as: homes, offices, and libraries. Now cell phones are the more modern version of computers. Verizon has always made note of the changing trends when it comes to technology and the company has always delivered excellent products the consumer wants or needs. Productivity To maintain the position as the largest and most reliable wireless carrier, Verizon Wireless must spend money. The costs range from building the network, to maintaining the network. Costs include employees, equipment and technology needed to keep the company on top. The company makes decisions based on what the benefit will be in the long run. These decisions are made by researching trends and technology in the wireless market and changing tastes of the consumer. The company knows the catalyst of success is a strong network. The law of diminishing marginal productivity states as more of a variable input is added to an existing fixed input, eventually the additional output one gets from that additional input is going to fall (Colander 2008). I was not able to get information specific from Verizon Wireless that would help me graph out this law. The company has over 86,000 employees and made 56.8 billion dollars in profit for 2008 (about us 2009). Each year bonuses are given to employees based on individual performance and company performance. Last year the bonuses were based on the fact that the company made 12% in profits. In today’s economic times, the e profit achieved was outstanding and was above any other profits made in the wireless industry for 2008. Cost Structure Wages and Benefits Employees of Verizon Wireless are compensated well. The employees salary along with the benefits provided are above others employed in the wireless industry, according to David Brown an analyst at Verizon Wireless human resources. At Verizon Wireless a broad-banded structure is used to organize jobs and manage pay. There are six bands that range from A to F. Depending on the skills of the individual, he or she is usually hired in on the F band, which is a customer service representative, or assistant. The duties are usually task oriented. The next band is E, which is a coordinator or analyst, who are proven to work independently, usually on projects and technical functions. D band consists of level one managers, supervisors etcetera. C through A bands are the higher levels of management and CEO. Jobs are assigned to bands based on similar roles and levels of responsibility. The jobs themselves can be quite different in terms of what people do. Jobs in the same band are similar in terms of their impact on our business results, the decision-making authority of the employees who hold them, and the knowledge and skills required. VZW classifies a job as either salaried exempt or salaried non-exempt. Verizon Wireless provides medical, dental and vision benefits to employees at a reduced cost, but also provides at no cost an education benefit up to 8,000 per year, 401k contribution matching up to 6% and yearly performance bonuses as well as profit sharing if enrolled in 401k and a long term incentive program that is also based on company performance. Employees are a vital asset to Verizon Wireless and the salaries along with the benefits are designed to maximize performance. Cost Structure Fixed and Variable Costs Fixed costs are defined as costs that are spent and cannot be changed in the period under consideration (2008). Fixed costs for Verizon Wireless include buildings, warehouses used, and upkeep of cellular sites. Variable costs, or costs that change, include workers employed, contracts for equipment production, new technology etcetera. Verizon Wireless is a firm that sells produced goods to individuals, businesses and government (2008). The company’s main output is technology. The fixed costs dived by the variable costs equal the average costs of the company. As was stated earlier, last year Verizon Wireless made a 12% increase in profits from the year before. Most of the revenue occurred in the 4th quarter of the year with the release of the BlackBerry Storm touch screen device. The device was the answer to the I phone distributed by AT&T. Over 100,000 devices were sold on the first day of release alone. The cost of the device was 199.99, which is around 2 million dollars made in one day. The demand for the devices increased, and the company met the demand with more phones. According to the March 2009 newsletter given to the company for 4th quarter earnings, the CEO Lowell McAdam advised that Storm sales were the factor that  significantly raised the company’s profits and set the bar for future ventures. Price Elasticity of Demand The relation between the shift in quantity and shift in price of a product is known as price elasticity. â€Å"Price elasticity of demand is the calculation of the percentage change in quantity demanded divided by the percentage change in price† (Colander, 2008). Verizon Wireless has to make an effort to stay in synch with the pricing and offerings by their competition. Verizon Wireless must implement services and products that incorporate modern technology and are ground-breaking to compete in the wireless market and affordable in today’s economy. Impact of Government Regulations Verizon Wireless realizes the importance in ensuring that all regulations that are established by the Federal Communications Commission. Abiding by these regulations will guarantee that Verizon Wireless will keep providing long-standing benefits for the taxpayer and customers. Verizon Wireless trusts that the present structure â€Å"of auctioning spectrum licenses, with clearly defined, exclusive-use and flexible rights, is the right approach to spectrum policy† (Verizon Wireless, 2009). Although clear benefits towards allowing unlicensed use of spectrum is visible, that advance will not create the revenue for the United States Treasury or the best value for American economy. Broadband is one of the services provided by Verizon Wireless. Over the past ten years Broadband services have been used commercially. During that time the government has acknowledged the significance of implementing market-based motivations to persuade broadband usage and investment. â€Å"Rather than applying more-stringent regulations to telecommunications services and infrastructure, the FCC generally has applied an old wires, old rules; new wires, new rules philosophy towards broadband services and networks† (Verizon Wireless, 2009) By doing this, customers will reap in the benefits form the government’s decision to enhance incentives for broadband service providers to invest in better and superior broadband networks and services. â€Å"Investment and deployment in next-generation broadband networks – such as Verizon’s FiOS network – is happening at a remarkable pace, and consumers  now have more choices than ever before† (Verizon Wireless, 2009). Competitors Verizon Wireless has a substantial amount of competition in the wireless industry. Verizon competes with wireless companies such as T-Mobile, Sprint and AT&T. Verizon Wireless became the largest wireless service provider by beating out AT&T. Nonetheless, Verizon’s landline industry is affected by the large opposition of modern technology and tends to confront challenges from various other competitors with high speed internet and cable companies such as Time Warner Cable. Verizon Wireless has to make an effort to stay in synch with the pricing and offerings of its competitors. The Wireless industry is so competitive, equipment can outdate within a few months. Companies must develop wireless devices that are affordable as well as reliable. Supply and Demand Analysis Even with today’s economic challenges, many opportunities to create innovative new products to meet customer demand still abound. In a bold new step the company introduced its line of netbooks, mini lightweight laptop computers that consumers can take with them anywhere. The netbooks have all the functionality of a laptop, with the convenience of a smaller wireless device. The smaller size and the low price the netbooks are offered, is what today’s consumers are demanding. Tapping into this market gives Verizon Wireless a piece of the notebook and laptop market that was only accessible in the past by offering mobile broadband cards. The added revenue from this market keeps Verizon Wireless ahead of the competition. Verizon Wireless also has the opportunity to expand its coverage globally with the 3G UMTS, Quad Band GSM networks. This means that business travelers as well as consumers will now have access to roam on more networks in over 250 countries across the globe. Verizon Wireless strives to produce the best most reliable wireless voice and data coverage in the industry. In order to obtain that goal the company will have to gain customers faster than the competition, widen the revenue lead and lead in profitability. As long as Verizon stays on the right track, the company should not have any issues presently and in the future. Reference Page Colander, D (2008).Economics, Fifth Edition. McGraw-Hill/Irwin, New York, New York, 10020 Verizon Wireless. (2009). Corporate History/investor relations. Retrieved June 26th, 2009 from www.verizon.com.

My Dropout Boyfriend Kept Dropping in Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

My Dropout Boyfriend Kept Dropping in - Essay Example going through the stages of a Goth, an anarchist, and a Marxist. The author maybe does not fully understand what her boyfriend, Terry, believes is the reason why he has to do this. After Conell details Terry’s reasoning behind this choice, she responds by diverting the subject. Instead of asking why he feels the need to live out in the woods, Conell replies that she likes his apartment. Terry’s decision to live like a homeless person has nothing to do with his apartment so the author is take the attention away from living in the woods and focusing more on what he is giving up. Maybe he might have changed his mind if she had provided some valid reasons why he should not live like that. Because the author did not deal with the problem in the beginning stages, this wacky idea was allowed to run and flourish to its natural conclusion. Furthermore, Conell seems to once again contradict herself when she mentions a discussion with a girl from her dorm. She begins the conversat ion by showing her concern for his immediate safety, but after her outspoken friend emphatically dismisses the idea, Conell tries to stand up for her boyfriend. Her reasoning is that he will save a lot of money and that he will feel close to nature. This seems to suggest that Conell has insecurity problems because she is not too fond of the idea herself, but when someone else joins in attacking Terry, she immediately gets her back up and defends him like there’s no tomorrow. Confirming her earlier shock at Terry’s decision to choose to live like this, Conell mentions a book that he gave her on Valentine’s Day, Into the Wild. In this book, a young man starves to death in the Alaskan wilderness. Her warning bells should have been flashing when this happened because it is not a regular occurrence to give someone a book like this on Valentine’s Day, which is a day all about love and happiness. In her defense, she admits that this should have been a clue and t hat she did not prepare for this decision as well as she could have. Conell gives us great insight into Terry’s habits and personality when she describes the time she first met him. She admits that he was a rebellious person, although she concedes that she was attracted to this. The reason for this was that she felt the same way as he did about many things and this allowed her to express her own feelings. She gives the example of Terry wearing eyeliner and attaching a safety pin through his eyebrow; these are classic warning signs of someone who is prone to bucking the trend. The one difference between these two is that they both act their feelings out in different ways. Conell states how Terry is more outgoing, while she is more of the shy type. This seems to suggest that maybe these two are not suited for each other. Conell fails to mention how this contrast in their behavior affected their relationship. Later on, Conell mentions that Terry dropped out of school only months into his freshman year. The only reason that she gives for this decision is that he was unhappy with school, but perhaps it was something deeper; something that Conell seems to brush off so easily. She uses the word â€Å"defended† when asked about this strange decision by her friends. This shows that Conell is not necessarily in full agreement with his choice because otherwise she would have said that she

Management of change (personal experience) Essay

Management of change (personal experience) - Essay Example Since it is nearly impossible to move from smoking twelve cigarettes a day to zero, the plan entailed a gradual reduction in the number of cigarettes from twelve to zero over time rather than a complete stop at once. I projected that stopping at once would not help as the temptation to smoke would be overwhelming (Schein, 2002). It was better to reduce the amount by two to three cigarettes in phases till I quit completely. The first phase involved the reduction from twelve to ten by October 21st 2014. This was successful though it was challenging. I kept reasoning that there was no big difference between ten and twelve. However, by sticking to the plan and focusing on the final goal, I succeeded to limit the number to ten. After achieving the objective of the first phase, I managed to reduce the number from ten to seven. However, this has been met with resistance and the body feeling deprived. It has been a challenge to move from this stage to the next. The strategy to keep the smoking sessions as far as possible has the effect of generating stress in the body (Schein, 2002). Fortunately, I have managed to plant the desire in the body system to get rid of smoking. The body is able to keep up with the chronology of change since the desired change is acceptable to the body system to maintain health. Thirdly, I have reduced the number of convenient places for smoking. For instance, I have kept cigarettes away from my car. It has helped to reduce smoking time as most of the smoking occurs when I am driving alone. I have also increased the time I spend at home with the family because the children prevent my smoking. By 18th November, it is my hope and desire that I revive serious participation in a sport of my choice. I have identified soccer as the sport as I am skilled at it and enjoy playing it a lot. By starting to play soccer again, I hope to reduce and

Analyze how globalization has impacted political and economic systems Essay

Analyze how globalization has impacted political and economic systems and appreciate America's role within global, political, - Essay Example North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), South Asian Free Trade Area (SAFTA), Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) etc are some of the regional trade blocs formed to exploit the opportunities of globalization. This paper focuses more on the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) and South Asian Free Trade Area (SAFTA) to analyze the impacts of these trade blocs on globalization. Impacts of globalization on political and economic systems The history and formation of the trade bloc Since the mid-1980s there has been a profound change in the structure of the international economy due to the widespread growth and internal enhancement of regional trading blocs in all parts of the globe. The World Trade Organization (WTO), for example, notes that almost all of its 134 members are signatories to regional trade agreements with other countries. As of February 1999 the GATT/WTO has been notified of 184 regional trade agreements of which 109 are currently in effect. These re gional trade groups, according to Fred Bergsten of the Institute for International Economics, account for approximately 60 percent of world trade. The United States, Mexico, and Canada created a free-trade area (NAFTA) that became effective in January 1994 (Reardon et al, 2002) NAFTA has proposals to expand the size of this trade bloc to the entire American continent. Same way, Agreement on South Asian Free Trade Area (SAFTA) was formed on January 6, 2004 at Islamabad, Pakistan during the 12th SAARC summit. The members of this trade bloc are Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka. The role that the countries involved in the trade bloc play in the global economy â€Å"Regional trade blocs have the effect of lessening trade restrictions between members, while increasing or standardizing trade restrictions for non-members. In terms of worldwide trade, the net effect is arguable† (Reardon et al, 2002). One of the major barriers in increasing trade acti vities between different countries before the entry of globalization was the governmental trade restrictions imposed by countries. Globalization has brought the concept of free trade between countries and many of the countries which implemented globalization started liberalize the governmental restrictions on trade activities between countries. American economy has the ability to affect the entire global economy. Any fluctuations taking place in American economy is watched with lot of concerns by other countries because of the increasing interdependence of global economy and the trade activities many of the global countries have with America. However, most of these liberalizations of trade rules between countries were taken place between countries which have warm relationships. Countries in the same region with political and economic problems between them have failed to liberalize trade rules. Such problems created more problems to other countries also in doing free trade activities . For example, India and Pakistan are enemy countries and their enmity created problems in signing an agreement between Iran and India in establishing a gas pipe line from Iran to India through Pakistan. However, the formation of SAFTA helped these enemy countries to assemble under one umbrella and currently the problems in establishing the gas line is going to be solved amicably. In short, countries started to realize that the

The major factors of business expansion Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

The major factors of business expansion - Essay Example Total float for the entire project is the sum of all floats of the activities. . Critical path. (American Society for Quality, 2008). Critical path = path A-B-D-E-G-H-L-M-N-O-Q-R Project Time Project time equals adding the durations for the activities in the critical path. = 4 + 6 + 2 + 2 + 6 + 12 + 4 + 4 + 2 + 6 + 1 = 49 days. If the project begins on July 6, 2009, Activity A would take 4 days to end on July 9 2009, activity B starts on 10 July up to July 17 2009, activity D starts on July20 2009 and ends on July 21 2009. Activity E would start on July 22 2009 and end on July 23 2009 while on July 24 2009, activity G runs up to July 31 2009. This would pave the way for activity H that would begin on August 3 2009 and run up to August 18 2009. Activity L starts on August 19 2009 and take 4 days up to August 24 2009. Activity M starts on August 25 2009 up to August 28 2009 and activity N goes on till September 1. Activity O starts on September 2 2009, till September 9 2009 and activity Q ends on September 10 2009. Activity R ends on September 11 2009. A 1 day delay on activity J would not affect the duration of the whole project since activity L can wait for 12 days for activity H to end. Completing activity O one day before schedule would reduce project days by one day. Activity C can not affect the duration for he whole project. A network diagram is a logical approach of representing several activities which indicate the flow or sequence of a certain project. It is used to indicate the path of the project and all its activities and the starting and finishing time for every activity. It also shows the names and events for every operation Case 2: Feasibility Report for...Activity O starts on September 2 2009, till September 9 2009 and activity Q ends on September 10 2009. Activity R ends on September 11 2009. A 1 day delay on activity J would not affect the duration of the whole project since activity L can wait for 12 days for activity H to end. Completing activity O one day before schedule would reduce project days by one day. Activity C can not affect the duration for he whole project. A network diagram is a logical approach of representing several activities which indicate the flow or sequence of a certain project. It is used to indicate the path of the project and all its activities and the starting and finishing time for every activity. It also shows the names and events for every operation I examined the feasibility of establishing a new base for William CO. Ltd for expanding its current base that has a medium sized head office of about 2,600 square meters and employs nine administration staff members in addition to the operational workers who total to 48 in number. The company is an SME company which is involved in supply of mechanical services including heating, air conditioning, ventilation systems and plants.

History Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 45

History - Essay Example Hence, implying its recognition usually ceases when one abandons the position since the power’s basis is merely from delegation meant to oversee execution of certain responsibilities. Shihuangdis reign besides his power, which was inherent in him, he managed to unite China from diverse seven warring regions to a single state prior subdividing it again (ONeill 27). Besides, utilizing dictatorship like other rulers, for illustration, Egyptian pharaohs and Persian rulers, he was exceedingly wise and diligent in all his undertakings. This was evident especially in the way he managed to homogenize the then seven regions into one state by advocating the use of a common currency, writing and devising similar measures of scale (ONeill 35). Additionally, while still alive, he came with a plan to prepare his magnificent tomb for 36 years by compelling approximately 1,000 builders, which was not comparable with any other ruler of his time (ONeill 28). Shihuangdi’s reign, its basis was not on reverent power like other rulers who according to their subjects represented gods in their lands (ONeill 34). Hence, being the recipient of all the admiration coupled with divine obedience from the natives who used to see them as close to gods. Shihuangdi’s power was charismatic, which he earned by exemplary wisdom and diligence in the manner he executed numerous roles as a king. Shihuangdi’s autocratic rule especially on his enemies whom he wanted to bring under his power was similar to other early rulers (ONeill 35). Mainly, this technique was to conquer weak territories, which proved rebellious and could augment their military power in the future thus become a threat. Besides, Shihuangdi ensuring funeral arrangement ready for his end time, he was also eager to seek immortality, though deeply aware that was impossible (ONeill 35). This is evident especially in the way he sends trusted people to seek immortality for him in other states but fails to return

Read two articles relateting to one aspect of early childhood Assignment

Read two articles relateting to one aspect of early childhood curriculum.write a brief synthesis of the articles - Assignment Example Along with the right teaching in Science are different assessment instruments that would help the teacher gain success in classroom. Some of the assessments are: Learning and Knowledge Assessments, Performance-based Assessments for Individualized Instruction, Progress Monitoring, and Curricular Evaluation, and Direct Assessments of Science Learning. Educators are well aware that children learn easily and more effectively if they are enjoying while learning. Since the nature of children in the early childhood education better known as the â€Å"preschool years† are more of â€Å"playing†, educators must capitalize on playing as an effective medium of teaching. Teacher may opt to incorporate the three-play types in their classroom strategies. These play types are the modelled play, open-ended play and finally purposefully framed

Health and Safety act 1974 Essay Example for Free

Health and Safety act 1974 Essay The Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974, also referred to as HASAW or HSW, is the primary piece of legislation covering occupational health and safety in the United Kingdom. The Health and Safety Executive is responsible for enforcing the Act and a number of other Acts and Statutory Instruments relevant to the working environment.Covers: †¢ safe plant and systems of work; †¢ safe methods for the use, handling, storage and transport of articles and substances; †¢ necessary information, instruction, training and supervision; †¢ a safe and well-maintained workplace, including safe access and egress; †¢ a safe working environment with adequate welfare facilities This legislation requires employers to prepare, and maintain up-to-date, a statement showing the policy on safety and the organisation and arrangements put in place to ensure the general policy is carried out. The employer must ensure that all employees are aware of the policy and any revision. Manufacturing organisation: Tasty Bake- Tasty Bake is one of the UKs leading sausage manufacturers. Cardamon Pod- Cardamon Pod is a small business offering a wide range of delicious savoury and sweet samosas to both public and private clients throughout the UK and overseas. Service provider: Chef per Tutti offering a private chef service. Planglow Ltd. Planglow is a recognised market leader for the supply of branded paper-based products to the catering industry. Main causes of injury: †¢ Manual handling and lifting especially lifting heavy and awkward loads and pushing wheeled racks †¢ Slips and trips mostly due to wet or contaminated floors †¢ Falls from height off ladders, stairs, work platforms, plant and vehicles †¢ Struck by an object (eg hand knife) or striking against an object (eg plant) †¢ Exposure to harmful substances and hot objects, eg splashes/vapour from cleaning chemicals, contact with hot equipment Electricity at work regulations 1989 This legislation places legal implications on employers to ensure the safety of electrical devices in the workplace. Covers: †¢ Ensure all persons working on or near electrical equipment are competent, to prevent danger and injury †¢ Maintain electrical systems in safe condition †¢ Carry out electrical work safely †¢ Ensure equipment is suitable and safe to use in terms:- of strength and capability of use in adverse or hazardous environments e.g. weather, dirt, dust, gases, mechanical hazards, flammable atmospheres, etc †¢ Ensure effective insulation of conductors in a system This legislation is requires precautions to be taken against the risk of death or personal injury from electricity during work activities. Manufacturing organisation: McKinlay Electrical Manufacturing Co. Ltd. Elkay Electrical Manufacturing Company Ltd Customer providers: Southern Electric E-on Main hazards: †¢ Electric shock †¢ Electric burns †¢ Fires of electrical origin †¢ Electric arcing causing â€Å"Arc Eye† †¢ Explosions initiated or caused by electricity Display screen equipment regulations 1992 The Health and Safety (Display Screen Equipment) Regulations 1992 aim to protect the health of people who work with DSE. The Regulations were introduced because DSE has become one of the most common kinds of work equipment. Covers: †¢ Assess display screen equipment workstations and reduce any risks which are discovered. †¢ Make sure that workstations satisfy the essential safety requirements which are set for the display screen, keyboard, desk and chair, working environment, task design and software †¢ Plan display screen equipment work so that there are breaks or changes of activity †¢ Provide information and training for display screen equipment users This legislation requires: †¢ Employers have to carry out a suitable and sufficient analysis of all workstations provided for use by users or operators in other words, a risk assessment. †¢ DSE workstations must meet the Schedule of Minimum Requirements. †¢ Employers have to ensure that users get periodic breaks or changes of activity away from the display screen equipment. †¢ Employers have to provide information to users and operators on risks identified by the assessment, steps taken to reduce the risks, and, where appropriate, the systems for breaks and for eyesight tests. Manufacturing organisation: Computer manufacturers: Dell, Asus. Customer providers: Shops – Asda, Tesco, Boots, they are using screen equipment. Accountant assistant job – working with computers. Risks: †¢ Upper Limb Disorders aches and pains in the hands, wrists, arms, neck, shoulders, back etc. †¢ Visual Difficulties eyes can become tired and existing conditions can become more noticeable.

The American Anti Slavery Society History Essay

The American Anti Slavery Society History Essay Talking about the Abolitionism in the USA and social, psychological and organizational mechanisms that made it possible we should learn a lot of conformed to this theme literature in order to understand all the difficulties. However, this definition is not new, each of us, at least, once has heard it. For a long time people are committing crimes. Even ancient humanity understood the importance of existence of some kind of law, which can protect people from crimes, prevent them and forbid actions dangerous to others. Nowadays it calls law. For a very long time now, laws were made in order to realize self-protection, thus stronger people could have done anything they want with weaker men. Time passed, obviously, society progressed, improved and transformed. The need for law is an approved fact. However, it could not protect us from everything. Unfortunately, we are none of us always good and we all (at least once at life) do bad things. Now it is obvious to everyone that, to make law succeed and stop the crimes, there must be rules, which we must follow, not ignore. Of course, laws we have, are not perfect and sometimes even contradictory, however we are better off with such laws, than if we had none at all. However, even the law could not stop and prevent the Slavery, Genocide and Wars. To be honest, to understand all details of history process, we must study it separately. Only in this case there is a possibility that in the end of studying we will catch the whole idea and the main standpoints. The abolition is the movement being struggle the freedom of slavery. I will try to explain you as well as it is possible, through out this writing. The development and expansion of the abolition The first call to abolition slavery in USA took place in 1688. In 1838 1870, the abolition occupied the whole world. The British and Foreign Anti-Slavery Society (BFASS) were created to struggle for the slavery destroys. Then in 1840 the first World Anti-Slavery Convention in London appeared, there were even women, who wanted to fight for rights and freedoms. In 1850 this organization numbered even more women then men. The article named African Slavery in America written in 1775 by Thomas Paine was seemed to be the first one, which advocated abolishing slavery and giving the freedom to the slaves in the United States of America. Blue has stated that the American Anti-Slavery Society was established in 1833, but abolitionist sentiment antedated the republic. For example, the charter of Georgia prohibited slavery, and many of its settlers fought a losing battle against allowing it in the colony (113). Literature started talking about abolitionism in 1820. Abolition is said to be total and immediate. It must be abolished the slavery of the whole USA. According to Gellman, American abolitionism began very early, well before the United States was founded as a nation. Although excellent studies of the abolition movement exist, further research in the Librarys manuscripts could document the lesser-known individuals who formed the movements core. Other promising topics include the roles of women and black abolitionists and the activities of state and local abolitionist societies (43). 1 January 1863 donated the Emancipation Proclamation to American people, after this event abolitionists movement did not stop to fight for freedoms and rights of slaves, especially for black Americans. The passage of the Thirteenth Amendment, which occurred in 1865, actually finished slavery in the United States of America. Talking about abolitionists, should be mentioned that 2 women played maybe the bigger role in the struggling for the freedom of slaves then men. Thus, I think it will be appropriately to tell about womens suffrage movement, which cont inued the abolition campaign. Womens suffrage movement: 1866-1903 What the womens suffrage movement is and who started it? It is the womens right to vote. Chafe stated that it includes, however, the economic and political reform movement aimed at extending suffrage to women, on an equal basis to those for men and without any restrictions or qualifications such as property ownership, payment of tax or marital status (page 34). It is obvious, that this movement started in the 19th century, while the west of the United States was open and divided into vast territories. I think the suffrage movement must have been started much earlier, because women were gaining knowledge and receiving education on the same level as men were. Women became participants of reform movements and they take increased interest in politics. Thus, one question appeared and troubled minds of people: why do women and men are not the same in rights, especially in vote right? Consequently, the movement started. The one of the most active womens were being involved in suffrage movement was Elizabeth Cady Stanton, including Lucretia Mott, who issued a call for a convention concerning the rights of women. Elizabeth Cady Stanton was also the principal author of the Declaration of Rights and Sentiments based it on the form of the United States Declaration of Independence. The seventy-year struggle by women to secure the right to vote began in July. Stanton was a social activist and abolitionist in United States of America; she was also the leader of the early suffrage movement. The declaration Stanton created is often credited with initiating the first organized womans rights in USA. She is definitely the most effective activist in fighting for win property rights and freedoms for married women. The divorce laws were liberalized thanks to her actions. Such important reforms allow women to leave marriages, which seemed to be abusive of the children, the wife, and the economic familys condition. Conclusion In conclusion, the inference let us summarize and sum up all the information we are going to discuss. New approaches in learning such events, I believe, will give advantages and privileges in the whole system of understanding the history events, and will help people to be adapted to the life better, than now. The slavery and discrimination have been almost overcome in modern society. The Suffrage Womens Movement solved many problems of womens discrimination. Elizabeth Cady Stanton is definitely important and significant in the history of womens rights and independence. Such person should not be forgotten. The problems, which are highlighted in this project, have worried society for many years and the lightest minds of humanity were solving them. In order not to lost in thoughts they summarized, analyzed and put in some order all the information they have had. Nowadays, it is easy to find needed information. To decide what place this theme occurs in your life and your mind you should only think about it. The abolitionists did lot of work, they struggled for the rights and freedoms of slaves from all over the world. They succeed. Nowadays slavery is destroyed and people are free.

Is Print Media Dead?

Is Print Media Dead? The print and the digital media have been in the forefront in acting as the social mirror reflecting on what goes on in the society. Thus when it is said that the print media is dead it becomes quite disturbing because traditionally it is known as the only tool that people have come to trust to deliver information in a holistic manner. Well, in the advertising world, it is assumed that the more the products are displayed in pages of magazines and newspapers; they are bound to be sold more because of the already built brand. Moreover, in the digital media one has to be able to access a computer or any digital gadget to be able to make use of the online outlets for what is current. In essence when it is said that the print media is fast dying, it translates to the huge ground that the internet has covered in terms of developing content in just a short while leading to the panic within the media fraternity (Stanley 2010, p.20). Consequently, the print media starts to lose its fervent readers to online sites for news and advertisement and still feels left in the dark because there is no clear path that they can use to curtail the transit. The real deal with the media industry lies in the much money spent in the required advertisement. It is quite cost effective to spend money on the internet than in the print media which required huge sums of money just to buy a small advertising space such as those seen for obituaries. The speed with which the digital media spreads its news has set a new record for the uninitiated. The use of the internet in particular the blogs has defined the manner in which the news is spread. It needs not be official, but the effect that is felt by the print media is tremendous. With the advent of mobile phones, compact discs, television, e-books, e-commerce and the internet, there has been a competitive news dissemination process that the print media tries to catch up with through rebranding processes that promise a new experience. Nowadays it commonplace to find art galleries on the digital media something the print media cannot surpass considering its static nature. This means that the issues of globalization are catching up fast than wildfire as people from world cultures get to share information that was otherwise impossible with the print media. In theories that define the use of both print and digital media, we are to know what popular culture represents, mass culture an d convergence culture all which influence the trends within the media fraternity. The Evolution of the Print and Digital Media Print media has come a long way with first newspapers and magazines being published as early as in the 16th century. Other useful print media resources that found their way into the market included the production of tabloids, flyers, novels, brochures, newsletters, and broadsheets which catapulted the spread of news to another level, at least before competition arose (Warren 2008, p. 24). As the ages went by, it came a time when the electronic world revolutionarised the manner in which the print media represented its news and advertisements. This meant that there was increased speed in the manner of printing and delivery of magazines and newspapers to the points of access so that the public can update themselves on the breaking news. Their main role was to inform the public, educate the public and offer some entertainment as was evidenced through the production of comic books, cartoon sections, fashion sections and jokes columns. Owing to these roles that the print media played to the general public, there was a bit of a complication in stating that the print media is dead. This could simply mean that the all trusted point of information delivery at least to the general public was not good enough in its game. This meant that there was no use for the internal memos that are quite effective in delivering the message or even brochures that are effective in creating the right rapport with clients if advertisement is to be efficient. The problem ofcourse started to arise because there were individuals who could not read due to low literacy levels leading to the smooth almost unnoticed transition to the electronic media such as televisions and radio which could present information in audio and visuals. This showed the viewer and listener that the message was understood when there is audio and visual representation of the news (Carrie 2009, p.11). However, the cheap manner of producing print media proved that there was going to be sustainability in the industry of news and advertisement production hence limiting the rapid spread of the electronic media. This meant that the coexistence of the print media and the electronic media triggered the onslaught from the digital media which could present the best of both the print and electronic media. The significance of the print media is in the category where it is able to provide jobs to the masses who are employed as journalists in various capacities of the print production. As the competition becomes rife from the digital it becomes apparent that the resource persons who facilitate production and distribution will become obsolete leading to lose of jobs and livelihood. When it became clear that analogue data can be converted to digital data through the sampling process that uses binary codes, a number of organizations that had specialized in print media rushed to take advantage of the emerging technologies. The problem with this transition is that they were digging their own grave through a technological onslaught that meant what they could reproduce and sell was easily accessed through the simple click of a button. In the early 1990s, the digital transition was catching up in a slowed pace albeit the slow adoption that was attributed to database building. When finally the World Wide Web was created the internet became a culturally strong tool in dissemination of information due to not only easy manipulation of the information but rather the wide area that was seemingly covered. The impact of the mass production and availability of cellular phones, computers and game consoles ensures that people got their information and entertainment from the comfort of their homes leading to the evolution of the computer age. The point that this kind of information delivery becomes a killer for the print media is that it can be cheaper to maintain and has the ability to sometime deliver information almost free of charge to the readers. Moreover, it is now possible to produce the same information in the print media in the internet portals which represents a typical digital outlet. Theories Emanating from the Media Fraternity Certain trends are created through the media that include fashion, technology and politics which has led to a revolution in the usage of the media as a tool. This can not be achieved without establishing the theories that have led to the revolution as we see it. To have a smooth transition from the traditional to the new era of media liberalism, we have to give a globalization trends the deserved place in creating a flawless transition. The intention should be in letting everyone present their own news in the manner they deem comfortable for them with forgetting that each and every channel should compliment the other (Al 2002, p.33). For instance we cannot say that the digital media can replace the print wholly but can be a good supplementing channel which to others could seem credible to have the necessary information. Moreover, the traditional sense of the print media can very much employ the latest technologies such as cellular phones and the internet in collecting information which is then presented in print. When news is collected and a complete overhaul of the truth is made, then the slow pace of the print media can be better than the quick always changing or edited digital media information. Below we look at the conceptualized theories that can be quite helpful in analysing media transitions. When terms such as popular culture are mentioned what comes to mind first is the mass media in connection with the entertainment scene. The truth is that the media has a lot to do with what culture becomes hence this could principally mean that this is culture taken up by the masses to signify those common attributes. Almost all the time the media both in print and digital has a huge role to play in popularising something. In the modern era when something is produced and commercialised through the media to become like a culture, then the media finds its position in the world of setting trends. The youth who pick the trends are considered as seeking an alternative to what they perceive as authentic culture. The popularisation of this societal transition was more profoundly supported by the electronic media which quickly made way for the pure digital media of the new millennium. Through the use of the strong media tools it is possible to pick popular elements in some segment of informa tion and use it in hypnotising the general public in a make believe trance. Thus this has been seen as a foundation through which the effects of globalization its terms of sharing information became evident thus setting a common underrating of some situations. Secondly we look at the mass culture theory which described elements that belonged to the early up to middle 1900s. The evolution of the mass media brought about the existence of a common avenue through which people could congregate and share some cultural practices (Robert 2010, p.5). The cultural practices that were mostly shared included music and art in all its forms leading to a huge following to certain trends that were set by the emerging media tool. In essence the liberal outlook of things is brought into the fore a fact that calls for the cultural practices that emanate from the daily interactions made by people. Therefore, this presents the platform on which popular culture can be mounted to bring out the influence of the media in its various stages of development. As the media takes up its role as the sole provider of information, it collects as much information as possible to the extent that the quantity surpasses the quality leading to mass consumption of the attributes that are assumed to be correct. Lastly we look at the theory of convergence culture which creates the outpost at which the traditional and new media interact. For convergence to take place there has to be a high level of interaction within the media fraternity. For example it is important to understand the proper mixing of the professions that get interconnected in media. Professions such as journalism, marketing, communications, advertising and pubic relations have their special contribution towards the continuity of the mass media activities. The significance of all this is that there is at some point a well meaning clash of various cultures which have to be harnessed to bring out the positivity of the mass media contributions. Therefore, through convergence of cultures a new consensus is achieved giving the new trends that the advancing technologies present a harmonious outlook. The Digital Media and its Revolutionary Trends The digital media has come of age in terms of the trend setting innovations which bring about the cutting edge above the rest. The internet, the World Wide Web and cellular phones have galvanised the attacking echelons which have contested the place of the print media (Henry 2009, p.102). However, the main story is told through the efficiency with which the information is delivered. For example, there can be a curtailment in the print media through occurrences like war and natural disasters that can leave the only point of information reference being the digital media. This means that even the most illiterate person can be able to use a cellular phone to communicate as it shall be by word of mouth. At the same time, it is possible to use equipments such as computers through the internet to convey messages or news after all other physical infrastructures have been cut off. Moreover, journalists who have been sent to hardship areas such as war torn countries cannot convey their messages conveniently if the digital media was not made possible. Although, information compiled from the digital media can be used to string stories for the print media, it should be stated here that the deserved accolades should be forwarded to the right function performed. The competition or replacement of the print media by the digital media notwithstanding, it should be stated that the contribution of the cellular phones has been outstanding when it comes to news gathering and delivery. Other than providing an audio platform for which delivery of information can be performed, it also provides the internet application which can be launched from any place. Thus for applications such as those for audio delivery, it is quite normal to find those who cannot be able to read comfortably delivering or receiving information as they can understand their dialect ( Warren 2008, p.32). On platforms such as the internet, there are trend setting social network innovations that have made globalization a reality. The social networks that include twitter and Facebook have completely revolutionised the informal avenues of delivering news. With the number of computers and cellular phones increase so does the quick spread of information at just the click of a button within the network. Another advantageous point of view that the digital media has brought about is the delivery of information in real time. For instance, it is possible to vote in your countryà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s general election while still in another country and the cast vote be reflected immediately on tallying screens in the home country. This has contributed tremendously in the tallying process which takes a short while for the whole country. The Print Media and its Credible Contributions The truth as it stands is that the print media cannot be declared dead regardless of the popularity that the digital media has come with. The culture that has completely stuck on instigates that people have to buy magazines and newspapers in order to have the feel of the content on a daily basis regardless of the day of print. Moreover, there are print media outlets that have created a brand of their own to the extent that the confidence levels with readers are high. Here we mention the significance of fashion magazines which have had tremendous competition from the bloggers who develop the same content on fashion and then pass it on the World Wide Web. This has greatly shifted the balance from the common magazines which have a long process of acquiring them or a long issue day compared to the blogs which make updates every minute something new comes out. Even though the blogging has taken root in the domain where magazines had their field day, there is not going to be easy fodder for the digital world as the very magazines start a new rebranding strategy (John 2010, p.89). This includes the use of fashion forecasters who shall give the magazines an edge over what the world should expect in the near future with regard to fashion. Thus with such moves that are pointers to hyper-innovation, the magazine world will have the deserved chance for a breather in terms of having its popularity back. When we look at the newspapers and tabloids which ofcourse compete for the gathering of news with tabloids inclined to gossip, it is common to find a more formidable experience. Unlike the fashion magazines which can be used for more than once, the newspapers have to serve their purpose and then get discarded. But with the same application as is done in the magazines, innovation is the key word. Most newspapers have turned to the use of research articles that act as a source of information other than the news to give the reader the much needed peripheral information. The reason we say that the print media cannot be dead is with reference to the brands or household names that the newspapers created long before the advent of the digital media. On the other hand, it can be said that the print media brought the need to have high literacy levels which enabled many people to read for themselves the information in the newspapers. In reality the culture of reading as we know it was started by the print media hence catapulting the interest among readers to a whole new level (Carrie 2009, p.96). Therefore, in comparison with the digital media, the print media has a relatively low cost of acquisition which keeps people glued to it. The hustle that goes with acquiring a computer and the internet server requires a lot of money which most people cannot be able to raise of even sustain an already installed computer. Thus for this reason one can find the convenience of the print media more appealing than the digital media. The advent of new technology especially that points to the digital media has not hampered the originality of the print media which is considered inferior to the accolades that the digital media has. Nevertheless, the print media remains a pivotal segment in the mass media because of the variety it is able to present. If we say that the newspapers, novels, magazines, brochures and flyers belong to the print media, then we can possibly say that the information carried therein is quite varied. The information can be conveniently divided into the educative or classified as entertainment (Al 2002, p.62). When books or novels are referred to in the print media, it becomes apparent on the role that they play in the continuity of knowledge that concerns history, culture, politics and scientific discourse among other topical issues that are worthy mentioning in books. When it comes to magazines, their contribution in various subjects in society is quite vast. Their significance is seen through the commitment that they put into making credible research topics reach the reader in a well compiled booklet. In the process of offering this, the magazines provide the latest in life trends and common problems that act as feature stories which the digital media cannot be able to compile and distribute accordingly. Furthermore, newspapers have their irreplaceable place in the mass media because they are well placed to provide the harmony required in news delivery. They make regular updates in terms of advertisements, news delivery and informative articles that are guaranteed over certain periods of the day. Through the surveys that have been done over the years since the inception of the print media it has been established that a wide audience is reached through its segments of message delivery. Although the oral culture of spreading information got eliminated in the process, it has been found that those who can read are many in terms of wide area coverage compared to the spread of the digital media. Moreover, the print media has the tendency to finance itself when it comes to news preparation and delivery. By this we mean that the advertisements that are used can be effectively used to reach a wide area through the print media which shall translate to a cost effective scheme when payment starts. Whenever there is something new that is in the offing, it is easy to popularize it using the print media than digital because it has the upper hand of covering a wide area and in a memorable newspaper pullout (Stanley 2010, p.41). Therefore, we cannot say that the digital media has killed the print media passÃÆ' © but rather there is a mutual coexistence that makes them seem as complimenting the other. It can be seen that the digital media can distribute its news on a daily basis and free of charge but still we should be informed that the role is supplementary due to the longevity in the print media that can act as a reference points. Another factor to consider while looking at the sustainability of the print media is that large team that is involved in the delivery of information. For instance, whereas the digital media world may not require a specialised team to collect and edit the news accurately, the same cannot be said for the print media. The vastness of the team that is involved in creating a magazine or newspaper makes the print media not to be just willed away. The entire team comprises of the management, publisher, editor, editorial team, designer, reporter, the advertising staff and the circulation staff who act as an ensemble that can lead to the success of the print media (John 2010, p.55). This kind of arrangement encourages creativity especially within the advertising segment due to the large team that is availed to offer ideas. When production of the different segments of the print media have been finalised, it is time to compete for the same market that can read and the choice can be greatly influenced by the age of the reader. Otherwise, if any competition is evidenced it is considered to be part of the growth that is required in the industry which calls for a higher level of cooperation. Conclusion The media either classified as print or digital has its role to play in gathering and delivery of information. But delving into the statement that the print media is dead can be untrue to the extent where we study the role of each of the presented types of media. Though traditionally the print media had a huge chunk from where to get its users, it is no longer the case hence leading to the doubts as to its survival. The ease with which information on the digital systems can be accessed has led to the revolutionised speeds that breaking news can be delivered within a networked sharing platform. However, the authenticity of the print media should remain intact in the face of such competition which should be seen as supplementary rather than acting as a replacement. At least the print media should have its place reserved because it still reaches to the masses even to the most obscure of places.

Swan Lake Vs. Revelations Essay -- essays research papers

Alvin Ailey’s Revelations and Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake are two different styles of dance from very different points in history. Revelations is a contemporary dance and Swan Lake is a classical dance. Each dance has certain points that have made it critically acclaimed. They both incorporate different styles of dance but they do share a few characteristics.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The stage props and the lighting seemed to be different in each performance. Swan Lake had a backdrop of a lake. This was key for this dance. When the girls would turn back and forth from swans they would show a group of swans swim across the lake. This was very important for the audience to understand this very important transformation. The lighting in Swan Lake was a little bit brighter because it had more scenes where the entire stage needed to be illuminated. When the soloists were dancing they did not have a particular spotlight on them. Revelations had a very plain set. This seemed to put more of a focus on the dancers instead of the atmosphere on stage. The backdrop was just a dark cloth with no pattern or picture. The lighting covered the entire stage when many dancers were performing at the same time. When soloists performed, a spotlight was focused on them to draw all the attention to the dance.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The choreography in Ailey’s dance was very interesting. The dancers used the floor much more than Swan Lake. Swan Lake’s dance movements seemed to be very apar...

Canadian Identity :: essays research papers fc

Throughout Canada’s relatively short existence we have created quite a reputation for ourselves. Our great nation is known for many things , and I am proud to say that most are positive. Does Canada have a strong national identity? Anyone can see the answer is yes. Just take a look at the facts. For example, we are renowned for our peacekeepers and no other country is considered more peaceful. Without a doubt this is the type of identity we should work to keep. The first thing we should examine is what exactly is meant by â€Å"strong national identity†. A very good example of strong national identity is the U.S.. I doubt there is a man on this planet who is not familiar with the U.S.. People immediately recognize their flag, and most people can tell you quite a bit about them. The same is true of Canada, and what do they know of Canada? In 1995 U.S. President Bill Clinton stated his view of Canada in a speech where he declared, â€Å"Canada has shown the world how to balance freedom with compassion and tradition with innovation, in your efforts to provide health care to all your citizens, to treat senior citizens with the dignity and respect they deserve...†(Canada Today 9). We were also rated first in the UN’s 1992 â€Å"Human Development Index† (9).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  As I have already stated Canada is very well known for our many peacekeeping efforts. This is due to the many places our peacekeepers have been, or are at this very moment, such as Bosnia, East Timor and even Central Africa. These are just a very small portion of the places our peacekeepers are presently stationed. I am not even mentioning the dozens and dozens of other places they have been to. Our peacekeepers have helped save countless lives and Canada has gained relatively little in return, but Canada does it anyways, because it is the right thing to do.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Aside from our activities outside the country, we are also one of the best countries to live in. We have one of the top 5 life expectancies for both men and women. We also have the longest expected education according to the UN’s stats. These are just a few reasons why Canada is the greatest country.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Not only do we have a lot to offer Canadian citizens, here is a list of reasons to immigrate to Canada provided by KAM International:

Walden Theme

I believe that the overall message or theme of the novel Walden was to be simplistic. In his section â€Å"Economy† he stated that the feeling of dissatisfaction with one's possessions can be fixed In two ways; one might require more to fulfill the emptiness, or one might reduce their desires to achieve satisfaction. I think that this Is a true statement because you don't need everything In life to be happy. You could have the bare necessities and live your life with the same Joy as someone that Is successful and needs everything expensive to make them happy.It is all about your perspective on how you want to live your life. Another example that went along with the theme of simplicity was when he talked about other residents that were going through life Just trying to make mortgages and payment to all the new things that they own and still wanting the newest fashion trend. On the other hand Thoreau decided that he wanted to live his life differently he took another path that w as indeed the simple life. He left society and lived in the woods to live this certain lifestyle.If he ever came long a time that he needed new clothes, he Just patched them instead of getting the latest fashion and he only wanted the necessary accessories. He thought If you bought something that wasn't needed to survive everyday life was Just a disadvantage of living life to Its fullest. Think of the last time you went shopping for groceries. Did you Just buy what you needed or did you buy other things that you could live without? Do you really need that pack of gum to survive?Most likely you didn't need that pack of gum, cigarettes or zebra cakes. You could just buy what you absolutely need and still live. This is what Walden wanted most people to see is that you can live a simple life with only the necessities and be happy with how you have fulfilled your life. To live this simple life Thoreau built his own shack and actually owned it instead of having a house that was owned by a bank because of a mortgage. Because he didn't have all the big payments he was able to afford other things that he needed.He did say that those that have larger, more Impressive possessions actually have less when you compare them to his possessions. They might have a nice car but he has his life and all that It contains and doesn't have to worry about others taking It away because they can't pay for it. The last thing that I would like to say about the theme simplicity, is that he definitely lived a very simple life but he didn't do the same for his writing style. Thoreau writing in this book was complicated and filled with quotes, puns and double meanings that were not at all simple.He wrote this book in such a way that it was a little hard to read and understand the point he was trying to get across, but we ere able to accomplish it and at least understand a little bit of it. Overall, since I think that the theme of this book was to be simplistic I think that Thoreau achieved hi s goal in living a simple life and making his life be filled to the fullest. I also think that If he were still alive today and had the chance to see how many people are still reading his novel that he would be surprised. I bet he didn't think that his book was going to be as successful as It Is.Thoreau lived his life the way that he wanted and it was to be as simple as it could be. In his section â€Å"Economy' he stated that the feeling of dissatisfaction with one's possessions can be fixed in two ways; one might require more to fulfill the emptiness, or one might reduce their desires to achieve satisfaction. I think that this is a true statement because you don't need everything in life to be happy. You could have the bare necessities and live your life with the same Joy as someone that is successful latest fashion and he only wanted the necessary accessories.He thought if you bought something that wasn't needed to survive everyday life was Just a equidistant of living life to i ts fullest. Think of the last time you went shopping for didn't need that pack of gum, cigarettes or zebra cakes. You could Just buy what you He did say that those that have larger, more impressive possessions actually have has his life and all that it contains and doesn't have to worry about others taking it away because they can't pay for it. Fullest. I also think that if he were still alive today and had the chance to see how think that his book was going to be as successful as it is. Thoreau lived his life the

Amazon Business Model Essay

Overview: Amazon.com was founded in 1994, it started by selling books online. As it grew, the company started offering various products and services. Some goods include: DVDs, videos, electronics, camera and photography, clothing apparels, shoes, and so forth. Other retailers have merged with Amazon.com to offer diverse quality of items based on different degrees of usage, such as new, refurbished, and used items. The company’s headquarter is in Seattle, Washington. It has six global websites that serves customers that are based in the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Canada, and Japan. Their website features: e-mail order verification, customer review on products, and one-click shopping. Vision: According to Jeff Bezos, the founder of Amazon.com, they want to build one of the most customer-centric company in the world. A place where people can find everything they want to buy online (Amazon.com: the Hidden Empire, 2011). Mission: â€Å"Work Hard, Have Fun, and Make History.† The company’s core value is based upon customer obsession. With the help of innovation and technology, they want to take lead in customer care (Fast Moving Consumer Goods, 2009). Business Model A business model is a conceptual framework which expresses the underlying economic logic and system. It proves how a business can appropriate costs, make money, and deliver value to customers. As a result, this segment will introduce this company’s model, and how over the course of several years, it has managed to adapt their model to keep itself ahead (Business Model Definition, N.D). Business Strategy: Business Foundation: The foundation of Amazon.com was built on the ability to transform. It has proved that when opportunities arise to serve new or existing customers, it manages to adapt new business models to exploit it. The company is able to launch and run new businesses while extracting value on existing ones. Accordingly, they will satisfy their customer’s need no matter what, even if it is foreign to their current model. â€Å"You cannot stop at what you are good at.† Jeff Bezos says, â€Å"You have to ask what your customers need and want, and then, no matter how hard it is, you better get good at those things.† (Jeff Bezos Biography, 2001). The leader of Amazon was always interested in building an online retailer. The business model was not uniquely customized to the peculiarity of the Internet, nor was it predominantly innovative as it was based upon an online catalog operation. He saw himself improving on the traditional brick-and-mortar stores saying, â€Å"Look at e-retailing. The key trade that we make is that we trade real estate for technology. Real estate is the key cost of physical retailers. That’s why there’s the old saw: location, location, location. Real estate gets more expensive every year, and technology gets cheaper every year. And it gets cheaper fast.† (Online Extra: Q&A, 2001). However, it was an inexperienced observation when the company assumed that it could expand without making physical investments. Currently, Amazon has invested a large amount of funds into warehouses. Third Party Sellers: After gaining a large amount of profit from their book industry, they began to expand into easily shippable consumer goods. This lead them into two new directions; the first initiative was to host small business as part of the Z-Shop project. The second was partnering with several e-retailers that sold goods that Amazon.com did not. These projects allowed merchants to list up to 3,000 items at cost of 9.99 USD a month (Amazon.com Opens zShops, 1999). Even though this creates competition between Amazon.com and the third party sellers, it gains a percentage of each sale as commission from these merchants. The company obtains information on consumer’s purchasing habits, and create one destination where purchasers enjoy a consistent experience (Chaffey, D., 2012). Competitive Environment As stated previously, Amazon.com is an e-market, and in order to analyze the competitive environment both SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats) and Porter’s Five Forces will be discussed. SWOT Analysis Strengths: As of January 2010, Amazon.com has three times the Internet sales revenue of the runner up, Staples. By offering a large amount of varied categories through its website and other international ones (Amazon.co.uk, Amazon.co.fr, and so on), it has managed to grow to a customer based company with over 30 million people. In addition, the online retail format enables the company to reduce costs of managing inventory (Amazon.com; online bookstore, 2008). Due to Amazon.com building their business model around their customer’s ever-changing tastes and preferences, they were able to avoid the dot-com bust – a period between 2000-2002, where many dot-com companies went bankrupt (Dot-com bust, 2012). Amazon.com has successfully managed to make its customers to feel that anything they could possibly want could be found on their website. Additionally, its products are marketed at a competitive price. Another important factor is their speedy delivery with their usage of UPS and FedEx (United States) and Royal Mail (United Kingdom). The company also caters for people that prefer online shopping with extra services such as Amazon Prime – a service with a yearly payment, customers are eligible for free next day delivery. Even though Amazon.com is known to be an online seller of most things, it still excels in its original market of book selling. Evidence of such is that students are more likely to use the marketplace to purchase or sell used university books at a fair value. Weaknesses: From a financial standpoint, Amazon.com’s goal of being a customer-centric company that wants to gain a market share rather than profit may not be appealing to investors. Also by relying on third party sellers to provide products to customers, there is the risk that the seller may fail to commit to their sale. Customers will most likely blame Amazon; therefore, damaging Amazon.com’s reputation more than the third party. Another disadvantage is that prices may differ due to geographical location and economy, for example a FILCO Keyboard is 100USD in the in the States; whereas, in the United Kingdom, it is 100GBP. (Amazon.com; online bookstore, 2008). Opportunities: There is an opportunity to expand to other emerging countries such as China, India, and the Middle East. Not only does Amazon have opportunities to expand its base to other geographical locations around the world, it also has the chance to provide many local shops to sell its products abroad through their website. There will be an incentive for retailers to post products on Amazon’s website to increase their sales around the globe, as a result, the company will generate more revenue through third party sales. In addition, it is also possible to open retail stores or provide its own goods such as the Kindle Fire to well-known and established retailers. These suppliers could then be paid a small commission fee to have them display their goods in a proper showcase. This will allow customers to physically interact with the company’s gadgets similar to an Apple store. They could also provide tech support to any problems that may arise. Threats: Currently Amazon.com faces the threat of 15 court cases in regards to patent infringement. Moreover, international issues with their foreign websites may occur, such as export and import restrictions, taxes, tariffs, trade barriers, different payment cycles, and political instability. To illustrate, American electronics use different voltages compared to Europeans, which may cause issues to buyers that are unaware; therefore, Amazon must take extra precaution to ensure that customers are fully aware of what they are purchasing. It may also struggle to provide proper customer support to people that have purchased goods abroad. Porter’s Five Forces Threat of New Entrants: It is unlikely that competitors will be able to compete with Amazon.com’s information system. The technology that has been used in their website is unique, such as the One-click shopping. It has been patented to deter their competitors from copying it. Competitors will find it difficult to compete with Amazon’s brand recognition, because they are well-known for selling books online and are fairly established in that market (Analysing Amazon.com, 2006). Bargaining Power of Buyer: Due to a wide variety of choice, the bargaining power is high as customers may choose to buy from other sites rather than Amazon. Although, Amazon.com has been known to price their products lower to compete with other services such as iTunes. Threat of Product Substitute: It may be considered high, because people might prefer to physically visit a store rather than buy it online. Bargaining Power of Supplier: Amazon.com is not allowed to directly purchase electronic products directly from main distributers such as Sony, because of its low cost strategy. On the other hand, in their book sector, the company has opened five automated distribution centers located within the United States. This lessens dependence on their main distributer, Ingram (Analysing Amazon.com, 2006). Industry Rivalry: Amazon.com has little competition versus websites that sell everything; however, they will have to compete with websites with certain niche for products. For example, competing with Newegg.com with computer parts, iTunes with music, Netflix with movies, Barnes and Nobles for books, and Best-Buy for electronics. Potential Growth through Agility and Adaptation To be regarded as an agile company it must have four characteristics; it must be flexible, adaptable, coordinated, and balanced. The business must have the capability to adjust and adapt in effective ways to environment and market changes. There are three types of agility, one that involves the customers, another with partners, and finally with operations (Marakas, 2011). Consumer Focused Strategy: As previously mentioned, Amazon.com is obsessed with its customer base, the company’s aim is at gaining market share rather than profit. Accordingly, pricing is said to be the primary tool while considering customer’s bargaining power; therefore, adjusting the price of identical goods to correspond to the purchaser’s willingness to pay is a necessity. Amazon.com does not operate in any physical stores; all of its sales occur through its website. The company captures their customers recommendations and comments for site visitors to read, and this is similar to that of a salesperson in a store offering advice on which product to buy. Their website is consistently improved to be personalized and satisfying for customers. It tracks users traffic, the number and duration of visits, what products have been looked at, and so on. Amazon.com then uses all this information to create patterns. It then uses this data promotions and evaluation of goods. Unique and personalized features such as online customer reviews, personalized recommendations, and One-Click ordering, customers truly feel as if their needs are being catered to. Amazon’s website is so technologically advanced, that each customer’s front page would be different from another (Hill, M., N.D). Furthermore, Amazon.com offer its users almost everything due to the vast amount of resources available, such as Amazon.com Auctions, Marketplace (selling of used items), and Z-Shops (third-party sellers). Growth Strategy: In late 2007, Amazon created a subsidiary company called Lab126. Their first product was the Amazon Kindle E-Book Reader. Its business model was so foreign, that it had disrupted the entire industry. In order to be able to launch this product, Amazon became an original equipment manufacturer (OEM). It has linked the Kindle into a digital media platform that used both transaction and subscription based content delivery. Content producers have also partnered up with Amazon to create new content for the Kindle. Even after changing their business model several times, their ability to improve operational efficiencies such as shopping convenience, discount pricing, ease of purchasing, reliability of order fulfillment, and to purchase a large quantity of products from suppliers allowing them to benefit from discounts and offer a wide selection of goods to their customers is the key to sustainable competitive advantage (Kotelnikov, V., N.D). Innovation Strategy: Amazon has redesigned Android 3.0, as a result, The Kindle Fire has a clean, user-friendly home screen without random widgets scattered within the interface. The company has spent several years building up their services such as their cloud music player, video service, Kindle e-books, Android App Store; therefore, the tablet has a vast amount of content. As a result, consumers will know exactly what to look for in the device, and they will know where to get its content. The price point of 199 USD – compared to 269USD for the Xoom, 379USD for the Galaxy Tab, and 499USD for the iPad (A Tablet Buyers Guide, 2012) – is a price consumers are willing to purchase and weigh off the opportunity cost. It will not affect a large portion of their disposable income; therefore, they are more likely to purchase it for their kids. It is much more appealing to purchase an item that is practical at a price of 199USD in comparison to other practical goods at >350USD price range. The objective of the Kindle Fire is mainly about media consumption. Amazon has supplied this device at a low price point, in return, customers are being hooked into Amazon’s digital distribution ecosystem. The main purpose of this is to buyers to purchase high margin items such as the Kindle Apps and E-Books. The Kindle Fire will become a platform for selling digital content, and its distributer will most likely subsidize some hardware to be able to sell more content in the long run. This is a similar approach to what they have done with the E-Reader Kindles. Adaptation Amazon.com has managed to adapt its markets to current events by creating promotional sales that are equivalent to specific dates of the year; for example, Black Friday, Christmas, and Veteran’s Day. They have daily, weekly, and monthly deals constantly running throughout the year. The company’s website places recent products that are popular on their front page, in order to have people notice it. Furthermore, Amazon.com combats competition by allowing sellers to open their stores for a small fee of 9.99 USD a month, and taking a small percent free from supplier’s sales. Conclusion The essay first introduced Amazon’s business model. This model involved business strategy, foundation, and third party sellers. It then analyses Amazon’s competitive environment through SWOT and Porter’s Five Forces. To conclude, the company has unambiguous potential growth from agility and adaptation. Amazon.com has created one of the most unique e-commerce online store by having a variety of products as well as a huge customer base that, to this day, is steadily rising. Amazon.com is a behemoth e-commerce retailer, only time will tell what wonders and innovations this company will bring in the future. Bibliography A Tablet Buyers Guide. 2012. [ONLINE] Available at: http://community.digitalmediaacademy.org/15165-ipad-2-vs-kindle-fire-xoom-others-a-tablet-buyers-guide. [Accessed 20 November 2012]. Amazon.com Opens zShops – Direct Marketing News. 1999. [ONLINE] Available at: http://www.dmnews.com/Amazon.comcom-opens-zshops/article/62986/. [Accessed 14 November 2012]. Amazon.com: the Hidden Empire. 2011. [ONLINE] Available at: http://www.slideshare.net/faberNovel/amazoncom-the-hidden-empire. 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