Precision Worldwide, Inc

Introduction When a competitor develops and introduces a superior product that is less costly to manufacture and even many times usable and durable, the key to people at Precision Worldwide must decide whether to match the competitor's product, when to do so, how to price or what sustainable competitive advantage it needs to adopt during the next strategic period, given that it holds a large inventory of its now inferior product. This issue concerns the steel and plastic rings which the company, Precision Worldwide, Inc. PWI) is opting to produce as a matter of competing intensively with a French company, Henri Poulenc, which was at the same time posing a big threat to the viability of the steel rings PWI is producing. . PWI is confronted not only with a substitute product which is both cheap and durable. Compared to PWI’s steel rings, the plastic rings being produced by Henri Poulenc is both cheaper and lasts longer. PWI is also facing the risk of earning the ire of its custo mers if it manufactures but selectively introduces the cheaper plastic rings in areas where it is faced with the ‘plastic’ competition. As a result, PWI is now confronted with a dilemma of differences in strategic measures to undertake given the differing opinions of its key people. Questions Posted for this Note: 1. You have to analyze the existing data, the conflicting views of the sales manager and the Development engineer. And make a decision as to whether PWI should begin the manufacture of a plastic ring. Answer: From the standpoint of the qualitative aspect of competition, PWI is encouraged to start manufacturing of the plastic ring if it is to avert a more serious consequence of being eased out of the market due to a cheaper, more durable plastic ring. Regardless of the fact that PWI still has an inventory of the special steel material and the completed steel rings, yet PWI should approach the problem with a resolve in terms of the qualitative factor of competition. The cost of the existing inventory will have to be matched with the opportunity cost of being eased out of the competition – that is, pitting the income from the substitute with the potential loss of the opportunity income due to a prompt entry into the plastics market. For PWI, the signs of change are showing: the presence of a cheaper and better substitute which should not be ignored totally. Hence, this needs to be seriously considered as a threat. The presence of alternatives as exemplified by Henri Poulenc should encourage PWI to explore this option. 2. In addition, a plan needs to be designed as to the pricing policy to follow for both the steel and the plastic rings. Answer: A plan for the pricing policy is similarly considered urgent to explore the opportunities of lower cost or such cost being at par with the competition, both for the steel and plastic rings. Any form of pricing policy will have to be dependent on the cost of production and operations of PWI. Opportunities for cost reductions through outsourcing, reengineering and redundancy layoffs should be seriously considered. Among the avenues that can be explored include outsourcing of the manufacturing of the steel and plastic rings, either with Henri Poulenc or with other equally cost-effective firms. A number of plastic or steel rings manufacturer may offer a cheaper cost structure for PWI. An additional strategy to a pricing policy for the steel and plastic ring is to reengineer the manufacturing operations for the rings to explore ways of reducing production cost to lower the selling price for the part. Part of this operations restructuring measure include: evaluation of the sources of raw materials as means of looking for cheaper suppliers. (Kaplan & Norton, 2004) Comparatively, indeed, the costs of raw materials for both plastic and steel rings are too big to be ignored. PWI has to take the initiative to explore the use of alternatives like plastic which has been found feasible by Henri Poulenc. On the other hand, the labor and overhead cost may be studied in detail to explore automated production to manage the cost-price relationship. Cost variance analysis is needed to determine areas for improvements and opportunities. Pricing policies will then come after target costing measures are explored. (Garrison & Noreen, 2003) 3. Finally, some considerations should be given to the effect of the decision upon the firm’s image in the marketplace. Answer: There are a number of considerations that may likely impact the image-building processes of PWI are to be seriously considered when making decisions. Thus the effect of decisions involving the following issues is considered: (1) the issues involving the cost structure which continue to hamper the pricing policies and market potentials of PWI’s products. It appears that PWI has not really looked into the possibility of actively pursuing efforts to compete in the market through cost-effective production processes, lower prices to recognize the availability of better-equality substitutes such as the plastic rings; (2) the possible discovery of distributing the planned cheaper plastic rings in areas where competition is tight. This issue might prove to be an indefensible issue if customers discover such unfair selective distribution scheme; (3) the disposal of the remaining inventory of special steel and the finished steel rings might not be acceptable to the market unless prices are made more attractive and useful to the buyer. However, disposal made at a cheaper price and the prompt introduction of the plastic rings at a competitive price might mitigate the possible losses of the steel materials and steel rings. This can bring a positive impact in favor of the PWI for its initiative at providing its customers with marked down prices of steel rings. And, (4) the production of plastic rings at a cheaper cost will enable the company to bring a message of dynamism to the market despite the prospect of competition. (Hill, 2008) 4. How long is it prudent to sell a short-lived highly profitable replacement part without jeopardizing the company’s image and market share? Answer: The introduction of the plastic rings into the market should be followed by a market survey to determine the acceptability of the market to the innovation. An analysis of the consumer behavior is important in planning the appropriate action to be taken on the period required to sell the plastic rings. The survey should be able to tell the effects of the innovation for PWI to assess how long the product can be introduced into the market without affecting the image and market share of the company. 5. What price relationship is likely to prevail between the steel rings and the plastic rings once the latter become widespread? Answer: The price relationship expected to prevail between the steel rings and the plastic rings might at a ratio of 5:1 which means that five plastic rings is equivalent to one steel ring. This relationship however, can significantly change as the cost structure is reevaluated and inputs analyzed to arrive at a more competitive cost structure enough to sustain the production of both the steel and the plastic rings. . How should the 15,100 finished steel rings that will still be on hand in September be treated for analytical purposes? Answer: The inventory of finished steel rings will be used up in due time by September based on estimates of periodic and regular consumption. The remaining inventory can be classified at scrap and marked down accordingly to encourage sales and turnover. 7. Will the price rings hold at $1,350 once plastic rings are introduced? Answer: The price will no longer hold at $1,350 for the steel rings. The price of the traditional steel rings will drop accordingly due to the presence of substitutes and the demand to become more competitive. 8. Will the price of steel rings fall to one-fourth of the plastic rings’ price? Answer: It is probable that the price of the steel rings will fall to one-fourth or even beyond as components of the cost become stable, but there are still variables to consider that may affect the pricing: that is, the issue of reengineering the production which may lead to lower costs. 9. What effects will the decision in respect to plastic rings and steel rings have on the sale of other PWI products?particularly of the industrial machines? Answer: Since the pricing policy of PWI will affect the options to be made by the company, the effect of decisions on the plastic and steel rings may rationalize the prices of the machines as the cost burden is shifted from the steel to the plastic area. (Garrison & Noreen 2003) 10. Can the plastic rings be sold in France without affecting PWI’s other markets? Answer: At the short run, there will be no effect. However, in the long run, when customers are able to gain access to the French market through the globalization phenomenon, customers will start to shift sourcing of rings from the traditional sources to France where are able to make good use of their financial resources. 11. What action should Hans Thorborg take? Why? Answer: Thorborg should explore existing and future capabilities to arrive at the various options. Here, the bottom line is the capability to produce the plastic rings at a competitive price while disposing the inventory of steel materials and the steel rings. Thorborg needs to start retooling the production lines for the plastic rings. The threat from Henri Poulenc is real and may soon take some market share from PWI. The cost structure is a very fluid support for decisions as these can significantly change with a decision to outsource, reengineer or rationalize the labor and overhead component. Whatever options Thorborg choose to act on, needs the support of his key people in the company especially Henk and Eisenbach. (Anthony & Govindarajan, 2003)

Blackmores Company

The company has many options in its bid to enter into China. The company has the option of using the resource-based view of strategy. This strategy has a coherence and integrative role that places it at a better position than other mechanisms of strategic decision making. This is in view of the fact that companies are not restrained only by imagination. They are limited by their own capabilities, by competition, by technology, and by the demands of their customers. The strategy of many businesses is usually concerned with the match between the internal capabilities of the company and its external environment (Peteraf 1993).The opportunity for the company to sustain competitive advantage in Shanghai will be made possible by its strengths and determined by its capabilities. The companywill use its distinctive capabilities as these are those which cannot be copied by competitors, or can only be replicated with great difficulty. This is even after these competitors realise the benefits w hich they yield for the originating company (Montgomery 1995). The distinctive capabilities that the company can use are varied.Government licences, statutory monopolies, or effective copyrights and patents are the company's distinctive capabilities that it will focus on. However, in light of the competition, it can use equally powerful idiosyncratic characteristics that it has built built in competitive markets. These include patterns of customer or supplier relationships, strong brands, and skills, routines and knowledge which are embedded in the company's teams (Montgomery 1995). The strength of the brand will be particularly be taken into consideration as this will strongly determine whether the products are accepted by the targeted clients or not.The issues of the diverse cultures of the Chinese people will be taken into consideration and it will also be ensured that the products are also branded in Chinese in addition to the English language (Montgomery 1995). Skills of employ ees will also be an important factor in entering the Chinese market. The company will recruit a considerable number of locals beforehand who are specialized on various levels from manufacturing to marketing. This will help it gain entry easily into the market and also penetrate the market faster.In this way, locals will not feel alienated to the company and its products (Shelby 2002). The company will identify its distinctive capabilities and then will surround these with a collection of reproducible capabilities, or complementary assets. This will enable the company to sell its distinctive capabilities in the China market in which it will operate (Day, and Montgomery 1999). The company will use its resources such as capital, equipment, the skills of individual employees, finances, patents and individual managers.Competitive advantage may not be achieved from individual resources. It is achieved through the synergistic integration and combination of sets of resources (Shelby, Morgan 2004). The company will also integrate the industry based strategy in the enty to the China market. The fundamental imperative of using the industry-based strategy will be to achieve competitive advantage, and therefore, superior financial performance. The company has been making good profits and this should serve as leverage as this indicates customer satisfaction with its products.The company will choose will have the option of modifying its structure or selecting one of the three generic strategies. It will also manage the activities of its value chain (Shelby 2002). In following the results in recent research in emerging economies which China is part of argues that an institution-based starategy will also be used by the company. This will be in line with view of international business strategy. The instituiton based strategy is positioned as one leg that helps sustain what is known as the â€Å"strategy tripod†. The the other two legs consisting of the resource and indus try based views (Peng, 2002).The company will concentrate on two areas of substantive importance when venturin into the Shnghai market. It will consider antidumping as an entry barrier. The company will ensure that its products, vitamin and mineral supplements are of quality and are not seen by the target China market as dumped products. this will aslo take care of the subsequent rejection of the company's products by consumers. It will look into the options of competing in and out of China as Shanhai being a big city can serve as a focal point for the company to market and sell its vitamin products (Peng, 2002).Using the institution based strategy , the company will also rely on grouping together of companies with similar interests, that is, those manufacturing and selling vitamin products. The company will will identify companoies whose work it is interested in and see if they can make a merger deal or a joint marketing deal. This could help the company in establishing itself in C hina by corporating with companies that already have cut a niche in the Chinese market. However, this is subject to the conditions of the market. The company intends to enter solo in the Chinese market.It will only consider the possibility of group marketing and mergers if the market is tough. This is not something that is anticipated as the company intends to market its products aggresively using experience form other country markets it has ventured into (Barney, 1997). Reference Barney J. 1997. Firm Resources and Sustained Competitive Advantage. Journal of Management 17. Day, G. S. , and David B. Montgomery. 1999. Charting new directions for marketing. Journal of Marketing 63 (special issue): 3–13. Montgomery C. A. 1995. Of diamonds and rust In C. A Montgomery (ed) Resource Based and evolutionary theories of the Firm, Kluwes, Boston.Peng, W. M. 2002. Towards an Institution-Based View of Business Strategy. Asia Pacific Journal of Management. Volume 19, No. 2-3, 251-267. Pete raf M. A. 1993. The Cornerstones of Competitive Advantage: A Resource Based View Strategic Management Journal 14. Rumelt R. P. 1991. â€Å"Strategic Management & Economics† pages 5-29. Schendel D Strategic Management Journal, Vol 2. & Teece D. J. Shelby, D. H. 2002. Foundations of Marketing Theory; Toward a General Theory of Marketing. Oxford. Oxford University Press. Shelby, D. H. , Morgan, R. M. 2004. Review of Marketing Research. Volume 1, 155-205.

Battle Hymn of the Tiger Mother

In a study of 50 Hispanic American mothers and 48 Chinese immigrants' mothers, nearly 70% of Western mothers said that it is not good for children to emphasize student success or parents In contrast, about 0% of Chinese mothers have the same emotion. Conversely, most Chinese mothers think that their children are best students I believe we can be. They failed at school, then there was a problem, and their parents did not do their job .... Chinese parents spend about ten times on school activities a day. The war song of Tiger Mama sings a song that caused a global parenting debate about the mother 's strict parenting. Amy Chua believes that raising children in the West will respect and train the child's personality. Tiger Mothers Battle Song records Kay's decision to raise her daughter, Sophia and Lulu Chinese way - and the convincing and sometimes painful results her choices cause. Tiger Mama's battle song is a painful, sincere and profound challenge, one of the most noteworthy books in our time. Tiger Mothers Battle Song is a book published in 2011 by American writer and lawyer Amy Chua. It quickly promoted the concept and terminology of Tiger Mother and became the source of inspiration for Singapore's TV program Tiger Mother in 2014-2015. In 2015, the mother of the mainland Chinese drama tiger, and the Hong Kong series tiger's mother blues 2017. In an article published on Wall Street Journal under the heading Wall Street Journal on January 8, 2011, an excerpt from her book is included. This work has become the point of controversy. Many readers have missed so-called satire and humor that is not self-explanatory in the title and the work itself, but claim that Chua was concrete and very strict and ethnically defined. Advantage of parenting method Actually, Tua says that this book is not a manual of operation method but a self-critical memoir.

The Devolution of Greek Economy Dissertation Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 5000 words

The Devolution of Greek Economy - Dissertation Example The humans have managed to evolve by thinking of new and different things. The ability to innovate had always helped the sons and daughters of Adam to get out of the caves that remained their home for centuries. The human race with the passage of time learned the art and science of building homes and sowing seeds. These activities have assisted the mankind in moving in the direction of industrialization. The industrialization is a trend and is also a force that caused the needs of the masses to be fulfilled over a period of long tenure. The scientific development and growth is done in order to facilitate the achievement of industrialists’ objectives and goals (Oakey, 60). The economy is always known to be controlled by the local corporate sector of the country. There are two significant powers in the world. The first one is called the power of entropy that forces any system to disintegrate over the years and the other one is the strength of evolution that with the help of huma n effort makes things better and better (Peck, 115). The scientific development and the growth in every other field are repeatedly attributed to the people who dared to think differently (Baron and Tang, 55). The different and unique people have always been defined by the ability to see the world in a different way and method. The evolution has its roots in the ability and power of the people who are blessed with the tendency to see, observe and think. The quality of life on the other hand, is directly related with the local entrepreneur’s ability to translate new product and business ideas into commercialized corporate offerings. The offerings are also not the end in themselves but they have to be made better in order to overcome the traditional power of entropy and disintegration. The disintegration is created by the nature itself in order to keep the humans attempting to evolve and inspire. The economic growth is always caused by the force of inspiration that makes people to think and try to become more than what they are in their current state (Fuglsang, Sundbo and Sorensen, 663). The leaders are famous for playing their due hand in the process of evolution as they are primarily responsible for giving direction and purpose to people. The governments are supposed to provide the services of leadership by fueling the process of development and evolution. The Chios Island is the fifth biggest one in the country of Greece and it has a population of 55,000 but the area remained much neglected in the past as the shipping served the country as a major industry in the past years. However, the tide is turning and Chios Island is finally getting all the attention it needed because it is becoming an agricultural hub of the region. The immigrants are building their homes in the Island so that they can take care of the fields while, keeping their families in the newly developing residential areas. Research Question Following is the research questions of the study : - Q.1 Would economic crisis in Greece, be the motive in rehabilitation of abandoned rural areas and its settlements? Significance of the Study The importance, value and significance of the study exist because it is going to discuss the effects of growing population in the rural areas of

A Model for the Allocation of Value in Western and Eastern Art Markets Dissertation

A Model for the Allocation of Value in Western and Eastern Art Markets - Dissertation Example In contrast, Western art generally refers to the European style of artwork, and is less culturally diverse than Eastern artwork and draws less on myth. A significant portion of European art, particularly older art, is connected to the Christian religion, with depictions of Jesus, Mary and of angels. Modern Western artwork is often more abstract. The development of prices for artworks by artists in China can be tracked effectively and accurately using the research methodology proposed for both indigenous Chinese artists represented in local markets and also for global or Western artists imported to collections. This allows the determination of how traditional Eastern artwork fares in the Eastern art market compared to how Western artwork performs in the same market. The economical and sociological systems which drive the operation of the contemporary art market in China can be reviewed on a percentage of GDP or on a per capita basis in respect to the Western markets, allowing direct c omparison between the two. This allows it to be determined whether one form of art is traded more frequently or valued more highly in the Eastern market compared to the Western, indicating differences between the markets. 9 The Assignment of Value 13 For any commodity or service, value must be assigned to it in order for it to be bought and sold in the general market. It is not simple to assign value to art, as its worth comes from a wide variety of sources, and is not always predictable. The question of value is fundamental for art as a discipline and as an object. Art is created not simply because of the desire of the artist to create, but also as a method of communication, or through a desire to earn an income. As a consequence, the meaning of the work is important and... This dissertation outlines art as a large part of culture and tradition worldwide, but the definitions and approaches to art can vary significantly depending on the artist as well as the culture that they derive their inspiration from. In particular, artistic inspiration and art form can be divided into two broad categories, Eastern and Western art. These definitions are based on global location of the style and inspiration for the artist, although the artist themselves may not be from this global area. Western art can be defined as art that is created in the styles that are generally accepted in European countries, although it may be created anywhere in the world. Traditionally, Western art consisted primarily of paintings and sculptures, often of religious icons, although there was the development of other artistic styles such as impressionist and abstract art during the history of Western art. Current Western art also includes styles such as modern art, which is often very abstrac t, and performance art. In contrast, Eastern art is often more traditional and takes greater inspiration from local religion, practices, history, myth and legend. When interpreting art from Eastern cultures, it is important not to do so through the lens of Western art history and values, as this presents a risk of cultural imperialism or bias. The consequence of this may be the marginalization of traditional artistic expression, such as art through handicrafts, folk art, or kitsch, which are often not regarded as art from the traditional Western viewpoint.

Biochemical conditions and brain activity linked to crime Essay

Biochemical conditions and brain activity linked to crime - Essay Example This will be achieved by borrowing from various secondary sources and using examples appropriately. Crime refers to behaviors that violate taboos or social laws, thus a contextual fact (Bekerian & Levey, 2012). Because of the behavioral aspect of crime, the discussion on biochemical factors on criminology would focus on how biochemical factors influence criminology behaviors. Gaines and Miller document trait theories which postulate that â€Å"certain biological or psychological traits in individuals could incline them towards criminal behavior given a certain set of circumstances† (2012, p. 45). Moreover, behavior is biological and would be represented in the brain, its biochemistry, structure, electrical activity and growth and decline. Biochemical Conditions and Crime In the evaluation of the relationship between biochemical conditions and crime, it would be critical to appreciate the postulate by Siegel (2013) that biochemical conditions, both acquired and genetic influenc e and control antisocial behavior. The trait theory postulates that biochemistry would influence one’s criminal behavior. To put this into perspective, it would be important to appreciate the role that chemical messengers, referred to as hormones, play in influencing crime. Gaines and Miller (2012) give an example of testosterone in males whose elevated levels have been linked to aggression and thus increased criminality. This explains the high crime levels among men below age 28, doubling that of men between ages 31 and 60 due to the high testosterone levels at this age bracket. To further support this argument, it would be observed that boys exposed to steroids prenatally exhibit less aggression during their adolescence because of increased androgen levels. Biological contaminants and damaging chemicals could commence action even before birth if the mother takes diets lacking or having an excess of important nutrients. Siegel (2013) documents magnesium, sodium, potassium, a mino acids, calcium, peptides and monoamines as examples of minerals and chemicals whose presence in a diet results in abnormal sexual activity, mania and depression among other criminal tendencies. In the studies of diet and crime, sugars and carbohydrates have been particularly associated with antisocial behavior. According to Joyce (2013), this is the reason that children’s diets would have sweet drinks replaced with fruit juices, molasses for sugar and table sugar with honey among others. Harmful chemicals could come into play through maternal smoking and alcohol abuse during gestation, with Siegel (2013) noting that this causes prenatal damage and subsequently leads to antisocial behavior in adolescence. Furthermore, such parents exhibit poor parenting practices hence resulting in conduct disorder among their children. Biosocial criminologists also argue out on the requirement for certain minimum levels of specific chemical and minerals to maintain normal brain growth an d functioning. Excess supply or undersupply of such minerals and chemicals as potassium and manganese could cause behavioral problems. This postulate has been supported by Joyce (2013) who observes that excessive amounts of cobalt and lead in the body or glucose deficiency in the bloodstream could adversely affect behavior and thus propagate crime. Brain Activity and Crime Studying brain activity points out at its relationship to crime. Neurophysiology

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

History, editing - Essay Example This system would only be effective when the accused gave a confession. 2. Levack notes on pg. 88 that witchcraft, even though a â€Å"spiritual† crime, was tried in secular courts. Why was this the case? What does this tell us about the relationship between the church and state in the late Middle Ages? 3. How does Cohn explain the acceptance of the existence of magic, demons, and witches by the elite in the late Middle Ages? How can we see this phenomenon as connected to the rise of the inquisitorial system of justice? Cohn states that acceptance of witchcraft, magic, demons came through the late middle age elite ruling, and it was politically influenced. Dennis has also mentioned about the role politics played in the acceptance. He has also brought out an aspect of Pope Benedict conflict and others such as wealthy Irish families, all which set the stage for the witch-hunt that would follow. After the adoption of these changes, a witch-hunt ensured shortly after. The witches were mostly executed. My tutor notes that the papal system was the institution that came up with the inquisitorial justice system. The judge would direct the case in a bid of finding the truth. Cohn states that the first witch-hunt started in locations where the Waldensians were thought or known to be. Daniel notes that the persecution of the Waldensians led to persecution of those who were not due to their heretical beliefs and common misconceptions. The Waldensians settlements were very remote in the Swiss and French Alps this, played a big role in the initiation of the witch-hunts. Kelly notes that mass trials started, as a result, of Waldensians persecutions; to acquire the names of the heretics torture was applied. Each suspect could be tortured until they gave names of other accused heretics. 2. As Cohn notes, the image of the night-riding witch was controversial in the sixteenth and seventeenth-century

Strategic Management, Organisational Strategic Analysis on Barclays Essay

Strategic Management, Organisational Strategic Analysis on Barclays PLC - Essay Example Introduction Barclays PLC is a major global financial service provider that is engaged in retail banking, credit cards, corporate and investment banking, and wealth management with an extensive international presence – Europe, Africa, Asia and the Americas (Barclays, 2011). The company has its roots in the UK, which has remained as its major market in terms of income, personnel – about 60,000 – and other resources. As a big financial services provider the company is structured as follows. First it is divided into the three major categories: (1) retail and business banking; (2) corporate and investment banking, and wealth management; and (3) group centre. The retail and business banking is further subdivided into four business segments: UK Retail and Business banking, Europe Retail and Business banking, Africa Retail and Business Banking and Barclaycard. Corporate and investment banking is subdivided into: Barclays Capital, Barclays Corporate and Barclays Wealth. Global centre comprises of all the other operations at the company’s head office (Barclays, 2012a). In 2010, the group had made a total income of  £31,440 million and had nearly 147,500 employees globally. This research paper shall focus on the company’s UK Business Banking segment.... The retail and business banking is further subdivided into four business segments: UK Retail and Business banking, Europe Retail and Business banking, Africa Retail and Business Banking and Barclaycard. Corporate and investment banking is subdivided into: Barclays Capital, Barclays Corporate and Barclays Wealth. Global centre comprises of all the other operations at the company’s head office (Barclays, 2012a). In 2010, the group had made a total income of ?31,440 million and had nearly 147,500 employees globally. This research paper shall focus on the company’s UK Business Banking segment. According to Antony Jenkins, the Chef Executive of Global Retail Banking, the company’s strategic goals are â€Å"Happy customers, strong profit growth, good returns (Barclays, 2011, p.18)†. However, this may prove to be quite a challenge considering the effects of financial crisis of 2008 and the current recession in most of Western Europe (the UK included) which ar e major markets for the company. One key change that the bank will have to contend with is increased stakeholder involvement and expectations as depicted in Appendix A. 2.0. Analysis of the Internal and External environment PESTEL analysis enables a company to analyse its macro-environment. From the macro-environment the company’s strategist can then figure out which factors are more likely to change and which amongst these will have the greatest impact on their organisation (Gillespie, 2007). Five forces analysis helps a company to understand the structure of its industry and stake out a position that is less vulnerable to attack and more profitable (Porter,

Best Buy SWOT Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Best Buy SWOT - Research Paper Example In the case of Best Buy, the strengths are powerful scaling capability, the people: culture and passion, strong market share, (Judge), high level of community service and local involvement and customer service (OPPapers.com). Best Buy Co., Inc. entered the business in 1996 when computers and internet are really gaining much popularity. It has "grown steadily and enhanced its business through inspired innovation" and "continually transforming into a dynamic, customer-driven, talent-powered company that focuses on enhancing our customers' enjoyment of technology" so that now it already has branches in U.S., Canada, Europe, China and Mexico (Best Buy). From one branch it was able to scale up its operation to cater to cross-country branches. With 155,000 employees, Best Buy is a hub of satisfied and energetic individuals with the strength of youth and innovation (Best Buy). Due to its strength in scaling up production and service, another branch in South America such as in Chile is very much possible. Best Buy always remembers to share its success with the community. It has strengthened its community partnership with the Best Buy Children's Foundation and other charitable programs (Best Buy). Best Buy also h as increasing market share. Forbes.com reported an increase of sales by 1.7% in the first quarter of 2007, while competitor Circuit City experienced a plummet of 5.6%. (Farrell). The recent report also reveals that from March to December 2009, "Best Buy's combined online and offline share of the notebook computer and digital camera markets gained 5.5%, flat-panel televisions increased 5.2%, and desktop computers gained 4.7%" (Vertical Web Media.). The increasing market share enables Best Buy to expand its reach, even to foreign countries. It is coupled with popularity, which it can capitalize on once it opens in Chile. Lastly, Best Buy has an excellent customer service which makes shopping more convenient. Opposite to the internal strength is the internal weaknesses. In the case of Best Buy, these weaknesses include too much bureaucracy, undifferentiated products or services and complicated shipping schedules (OPPapers.com). The absence of strengths on each of these aspects result to a business weakness, which can cause dismay to customers. Too much bureaucracy inside Best Buy results to lesser efficiency. If the hierarchy is so tall, transactions may take longer time to be accomplished. This problem is much worse given an operation in a foreign country such as Chile. The delay in delivery and logistics can harm the entire business. There is also the problem of undifferentiated products and services, which is primarily not beneficial to customers. Lastly, since there are already a lot of customers from around the world, Best Buy has not still found the best way of managing their logistics especially in shipping. This can cause delay and inconvenience on the part of the customers. Looking at the external environment may "reveal certain new opportunities for profit and growth" (Internet Center for Management and Business Administration, Inc.). The opportunities present for Best Buy are increased preference for the brand, more categories to enhance the brand (Judge), and more expansion opportunities (OPPapers.com) and the increasing use of computers and internets in other countries. The gaining of greater market share for Best

Integrated Marketing Communications and Advertising Essay

Integrated Marketing Communications and Advertising - Essay Example Integrated marketing communication is an approach to reach the customers through two communication channels, online and offline. Online channels include e-marketing, email, banners to latest websites, and internet TV. Offline channels include newspapers, magazines, billboards, radio and television. The main purpose of integrated marketing communication is to form and carry on the look or message in all elements of the marketing campaign in the same way. Integrated marketing communication does not just include bringing the product to the customers but it also keeps in mind the company's mission, the compensation plan, the management style and the employee training. A successful integrated marketing communication is made in such a way that the clients' needs are kept in mind and is provided on time, with the possible budget and resources to reach the target. In order to be very successful the four Ps' of marketing the packaging, promotion, positioning, pricing and distribution have to be consistent with each other. This will help in attracting the customers and help them in realizing their need and the desired product or service for it to be satisfied. Integrated marketing communication is gaining popularity because it can reach people through advanced media advertising of many forms, more specialized media can center the targeted audience easily. The challenges faced by managers are that it becomes tough to promote the product through all possibl

Globalization & world Essay Example for Free

Globalization world Essay In general terms, globalization refers to the economical, cultural and societal changes, which are experienced in the whole world as a result of integrated and common trade, transport and communication network systems. The whole issue of globalization is complex with potential debates on its causes and effects ranging from technological to social- cultural and political factors. Although globalization has been associated with many positive impacts to the society and the world at large, the negative consequences cannot be ignored because of their far reaching effects to the people in the world. This paper seeks to discuss the health problems caused by globalization. It also gives some of the solutions to this problem. As the whole world is increasingly becoming interconnected, human health is becoming more complex. For instance, globalization has changed the lifestyle of people. It can be appreciated that modern behavioral changes such as the smoking, unhealthy diet, lack of physical activities and increasingly high use of illegal drugs, which are factors attributed to globalization, are risking human health and hence increasing the chances of low lifespan (Guindon, Pang, 2004). Globalization has also resulted to the outbreak and spread of infectious diseases. This is evidenced in the recent out break of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome and its rapid spread in the modern world hence imposing a risk of global pandemic (Guindon, Pang, 2004). Further to this, the enhanced global movements of goods and people have contributed amicably to the spread of diseases. For example, the advancement of canned food production, trade and increasingly high consumption has facilitated the spread of food born diseases. Behavioral changes associated with global worming such as sexual immoralities (increased sex tourism) in the modern society have contributed to the spread of HIV and AIDS which has been declared as a global epidemic (Huynen, et al 2005). In addition to this, modern society is experiencing high teenage pregnancies which results to health complications. One of the solutions to the negative impacts of globalization to health is by promoting health education in the society. Education will empower people to understand the effects of different lifestyles, which include foods consumed. (Wamala Kawachi 2007). Further to this, the society should discourage unhealthy behaviors through appropriate legislation and public awareness. In conclusion therefore, globalization has far reaching effects to health which should be addressed at international levels for the common good of all people in the world. ? Bibliography Guindon, E, Pang, T 2004, Globalization and risks to health, viewed 21 August 2010, http://www. nature. com/embor/journal/v5/n1s/full/7400226. html Huynen, et al, 2005, Globalization and Health, viewed 21 August 2010, http://www. biomedcentral. com/content/pdf/1744-8603-1-14. pdf Wamala, S, Kawachi, I 2007, Globalization and Health, Oxford University Press, New York.

A Discussion of Tim Walkers Work Essay Example for Free

A Discussion of Tim Walkers Work Essay Walkers’ upbringing in Guildford, surrounded by country has left in him with a feeling of love when it comes to Britain’s landscapes that he wants to show it off in his images, in any which way he can. This essay compares and contrast two works by Tim Walker that are identifiable as his signature style, however individually differ in diverse ways to each other. Taking into consideration the ideas behind the image and how and where he draws his inspiration from to create images that inspire others. His style so unique and recognisable, this essay will take into consideration the historical and social contexts to his works and if his style is a reflection of his inner self, childhood and naturally occurring ideas, or if this style is something he created and now lives within. After graduating from Exeter College of Art, where he studied photography for 3 years, Walker worked as a freelance photography assistant in London. However, it was his move to New York and assisting the photographer Richard Avedon that may have forwarded his career so that at the very early age of 25 he had shot his first fashion story for Vogue. Today a London based photographer, Tim Walker is at the top of his profession and internationally known for his cutting- edge fashion photography; taking fashion further so that fashion becomes seconded to fantasy and surrealism. Walkers innovative photography places him in the midst of the most creative and imaginative photographers out there today. ‘Tim sees pictures in front of him which are not yet there’ (DERRICK, 2008, p124. It is the detailed planning of every image and the ideas that starts the process of the final images he is famous for; for each project of Tim’s, you’ll be able to find a scrapbook full of clippings and ideas found from anywhere. ‘My ideas for all my photographs come from any number of places; a film, or a book I’m reading, a story someone tells me. I take loads of visual references and put them into scrapbooks. I’ve got hundreds of them. ’ (WALKER, 2009, [WWW]) It is these scrapbooks that have provided inspiration for a number of Tim’s shoots. But it’s to be remembered that the inspiration has come from things that have already been, but that he took interest in. ‘I don’t believe in originality. You take inspiration from whatever moves you and you find your own voice in those things’ (WALKER, 2008, p242) Tim Walker saying this, is almost find ironic because his pictures are often named original. However, if it is replicated from/inspired by something/anything he may have seen before- as like most pictures- it can only be your take with your voice on it. However Walker’s inspiration doesn’t stop at that, he also looks to photographers before him for inspiration. Cecil Beaton took so many photographs that purely to me represent the joy one gets from creating fantasy† (WALKER TIM, 2009, [WWW]) The opening to Tim Walkers book Pictures, like all others, start with a foreword. However, unlike all others Tim has handwritten his as if it was just another page in his scrapbook. Located only six pages in after only the credits and title, this is really the very first thing you see in the book and it gives great indication to the style of the book and if you did not know much about Tim beforehand; a great introduction to him, his style and how he thinks. Not only is it the actually content of the foreword: ‘as you tour your imagination you want to photograph what you are seeing†¦you are SO very keen to be able to show what you’ve seen that it somehow becomes true, and the picture you end up taking becomes a souvenir, a piece of proof brought back [all the way] from the daydream. ’ (WALKER, 2008, P6) But the design and the layout of the page also: He cleverly drops the control of the layout, slanting the writing just as he talks about his mind drifting. It’s a clever play on the typography that as we read, we too feel as if we’ve sunken into this relaxed state of daydreaming. The way Tim describes in depth the path he often goes on that lands him at the conclusion of an image shows deeply how creative it often is, usually because it begins with something as simple as walking round a clothes store. The pictures he takes then become a snapshot almost, and a gift he shares with us from his imagination†¦from his daydream. Tim’s childhood plays a big part in the ‘fun’ many of his images are filled with. ‘He draws upon his childhood to construct sets for his images that are witty and playful yet sufficiently sophisticated enough to perform for his fashion clients. (THOMAS, 2008, [WWW]) Bringing such essences of an adolescent age into something quite professional could be risky, but it is this that give’s Tim’s pictures that exciting, magical vibe. Tim Walker says in an ICP awards interview, ‘fashion is the dream department for photography and I’ve always been a daydreamer. Tim’s pictures relate to and reflect a time in the 1940’s era and the time of the Neo-Romantic artists, that happened at a time of Britain’s ‘dark hours’. Today, although we might not be in the middle of Second World War, the world is in a state of uncertainty. For Walker, it may just be that creativity in fashion photography and the understanding of make believe places in his imaginations may just be the sort of images that the world need to see, to remember themselves, how magical and escapist day-dreaming can be. The first image of Tim Walkers I have chosen is this one titled ‘Lily Cole on fish hook. ’ Surrealism is a big factor in the creation of a Tim Walker shoot and it is the surrealism in this image that makes it so striking. It grabs your attention straight away and with little effort in the actual design of the image. Although the content is completely random, the image works in so many different ways that you almost don’t recognise it until a few moments after looking. The whole image looks calm; the stillness of the water, the sunlight reflected off of it, the grip of her hands on the hook, her expression. This image is magical, because it looks right, for something that shouldn’t ever be. The shoot was located in Northumberland, England and the location only helps set this calm relaxed scene as well as adding to that ‘very English’ feeling he often brings forth to many of his images. Recreational fishing is fishing for pleasure, with the fisher not really too interested in catching fish, but for the tranquillity and relaxation of it. This shoot, is extremely reflective of this, oozing tranquillity with the colours and calmness. Lily allowing her tip toes to play with the surface of the water, creating disturbance in it, works well within the image; it doesn’t have a negative effect on it, but almost brings her as a model to life. This was not Lily’s first shoot with Tim, and posing as bait on a giant fish hook was nothing out of the ordinary madness. He loved working with the English model, who first posed for him at the age of 15. ‘Some Models know how to stitch and weave themselves into a picture. Lily instinctively knows how to become part of it. ’ (WALKER, 2008, p124) In this image of Lily on the hook, she really does own it; she pulls of her ‘act’ as bait, attracting the fish just with her stance and beauty, and looking calm and really engaged with the photographer. She’s wearing a random collaboration of 3 tutus and her hair fizzed up to mirror them. Although quite dainty and delicate in body, she looks strong and very in control ironic to her state as bait. But this works nicely as the setting of the lake and the fields in the background add to that gentle voice the image has, balancing it nicely. The second image is one that Walker had designed for Italian Vogue. The image named ‘Eglingham Stream’ was shot in Northumberland, England, 2004. The image shows a bedroom with a stream running through it from the fireplace. The room is cluttered, and filled with clear personal belongings of somebody. The contents of the coat stand and the drinks trolley-in which the whiskey is the most noticeable bottle-all refer to the occupant being a man. The fishes on the stone and those in the basket on the table suggest that the person that lives her is a man that has a fond passion for fishing. These objects that the viewer initially notices, cleverly lead them to be mysterious as to what the image is showing us. When looking further into the image, we notice smaller details such as the images framed on the wall that are not of any family members or portraits of him, but of horses and landscapes. This could suggest that he has no family members and is possibly quite a reserved man and this is strengthened by the big matter of his room being right by the lake. It raises questions as to how obsessed this man actually is with fishing, that he has moved his bedroom to live within meters of the lake. Although, there are some signifiers that suggest that a woman is present: the pink bedding and net chiffon, the frill trimmed lamps and the two tooth brushes on the chest of drawers. There is also a small portrait of a young boy in the frame above the fireplace. Because of how out of place this looks as the only one, it seems to be a ‘woman’s touch’, as do the shells on top of the fireplace. The image as a whole has a romantic, feminine and fantastical feel-created by the lighting and whispery stream-that is signature to Walkers style. The shoot seems to be set in the twilight hour, or in the early evening, indicated by the bluely tint to the night and the 3 lamps in the room being on. The absence in the room could well just mean that the man is off fishing with his dog shown by the empty dog basket. There are many things about both the images that make them similar when talking about them in context of Walkers style. Both images were shot in Northumberland in the same year and although it isn’t stated, the lake that we see Lily suspended above is likely to be part of the stream that is present in the second image. The images both have strong fishing references to them: Lily is suspended on a giant fishing hook, and the setting of the second is the home of someone completely obsessed with fishing. The images are not part of the same set or story, and do not look it either. However, contextually, they seem to work hand in hand. Having the countryside and fields in the background that run our eyes to the edge of the Fish Hook image just above the halfway line is similar in comparison to the way the Eglingham Stream image is cut off. This image is split by the striking pink/reddish colour of the walls meeting the grey wet slate form the stream that make the bedroom floor. Both splitting factors are of natural earthly objects; possibly representing that county, earthly, English vibe Walker has been known to create in many of his images. There is a terrible truthfulness about photography that the ideas which might work in a painting or a sketch won’t necessarily work in a photograph’ (UNKNOWN, 2008, p254. ) This statement is from Tim Walkers book Pictures and although this was not said in reference to Walkers work, it almost seems as if this is something he fights hard to overcome in his own pictures. He doesn’t let the normal be a limi t, he combines familiarity with fantasy and imagination to create what has never been seen before. This is what gives them that edge over many other fantastic editorials, and sketching ideas to visualise them is a big thing with Tim Walker; something he prides his work upon. Despite all their similarities, the images are in fact very different and not only of location and setting, but of story and design. In the first image of Lily on the hook, that is the surrealism; this beautiful girl dressed in a random combination of tutus with huge frizzy ginger hair hanging on a fishing hook. This is what we are supposed to look at and see the dreamlike, far from ordinary image in front of us. In the second image, the stream running out of the fire place through the middle of the room is also surreal, but that’s not only what the image is about. It’s about the story the scene creates. Yes you look at the stream and think ‘wow’ and begin to question it, but it doesn’t stop there, your questioning goes on to the room and what the contents of it mean. The images also differ in terms of layout. The first is portrait and works better in this format as it allows the full size of the hook to be appreciated. If this was on a landscape layout, the surrealism of the hook may not be fully valued due to it physically having to be shrunk on the page. However, the double page landscape layout for the second image allows a full viewing of the room and many details and objects to be noticed. This image in a portrait layout would not be successful as the image would have to be shrunken or cropped- both having negative effects on the way the image is viewed. The subject matter and the use of a model being used in the first image but not in the second is another differing factor between them both. Lily as a model is the subject in Figure 2 that the viewer connects with; she gives the image that presence so that when we look at it, it’s not just a picture, it’s a situation that we feel as if we are now part of. In Figure 3, Tim Walker is successful in including the viewer, but in a very different way and without using any models; we are invited to look into somebody’s bedroom while they are not there and just by looking at the photograph, the viewer becomes an intruder. But this intrusion plays as a foundation for the story behind the image, the one we seek out and uncover more of the more we look at it. Although the lamps warm up the image, it still has this cold feel created by the grey stones, real flowing stream and lack of natural light. The absence of anybody in the room assists in creating this ‘chill-in- the-air’ feeling. Figure 2, where Lily is standing on a large fishing hook, has a surprisingly warm tone to it and this may be due to her relaxed pose and the warming colours present in the image: The ginger of her hair, the red of her tutu and the fishing tackle and the brown/copper of the lake. The colours are softened by the sunlight adding to that warm tone. ‘Photography is a bit like cooking: you take the ingredients out of the cupboard and mix them up- old pictures, characters, colours, landscapes, to create something that is in your imagination that surprises you. ’ (WALKER, 2009, P208) It is clear to see that Walker uses certain ingredients in both of these images; fantasy and surrealism become like the salt and pepper; the underlying flavour and present always. After looking at Lily On The Hook and Eglingham Stream in comparison to each other, many similarities are because of Walkers ‘style’ that are consistent throughout. Even though both are editorials, contently, technically and visually, there is a big difference between them. Creatively, they are alike. These are just two out of hundreds of Tim Walkers photographs, but as like all of his images, there will always be something magical, fantastical or romantic to hint that the image was photographed by Walker. The images are real in their own terms; that is what they are. As a fashion photographer you are a documentary photographer within a fantasy land. ’ (WALKER, 2009, p210) By Walker referring to himself as a documentary photographer within a fantasy land gives us a clear insight to how he sees fashion photography; in a childlike day-dream way. He escapes to this place in which his imagination can be real and he sees his job as a photographer to document this.

Performance in practice and reflective account

Performance in practice and reflective account Introduction Assessment has always been an indispensible part of the learning process. The process helps to evaluate whether the course program results in generating benefits for the individuals participating in it. However, the process of assessment is not focused in real term. As per the studies conducted by Gibbs (1999) and Elton Johnston (2002), around 10% of the tasks that the students do in their academics are not accessed at all. On considering the case of nursing, it is noted that the lack of assessment leaves the chances of patients and public to suffer. On the other hand, the regressive assessment process can help a lot to the people attached with it. Mentorship always plays an important role in the preparation of the student to work in the practical environment. In my course of mentorship, I work as the staff nurse at the operation theatre. Recently in our organization, we have implemented the force tread valley lab and Aatherny machine in our department. There are several complications attached with the machine, as not many people have used it in their learning courses. Thus, it becomes important for me to make the students learn about the machine, how to operate it, how to take care of any unexpected result etc. For this assignment, I had conducted assessment program to analyse the learning that the learners gain from this machine. Based on the assessment done, I have come up with some important findings related to the machine and learners as well. Therefore, hereon, I would be discussing the experience after the proper assessment of the learners for the force tread valley lab and Aatherny machine incorporated in our department. For better analysis results, I had a meeting with the associate health practitioner to understand the proper ways of evaluation. My talks with him had helped me a lot in reaching to my goals i n quite a professional manner. Assessment Methods The process of assessment should of such a kind that that the students are able to gain something from it. If the process of learning is found to have some flaws as per the assessment, it is better to make amendments in the learning process (Brown et al., 1997). Thereon raises the need of rigorous assessment process the mentor shall take right steps of assessment to reach to the right results. In case mentor does not take right steps to assess his students, the results can be pathetic for both the student and the patients in the future. Thus, there are number of assessment processes in place. Some of the most commonly used assessment processes include (ACGME, 2000):- Patient Surveys Patient surveys are used for the assessment of satisfaction with the clinics, hospitals and they include questions about the physicians care (Smee, 2004). The questions are used with some general aspects of the physicians care (time spent with the patient), physician competency (knowledge and skills, courtesy or empathy). Some more specific aspects of care include physicians explanations, treatment steps and drug side effects, listening skills. Typical survey method includes rating techniques with poor, fair, good, very good, excellent rating standards or agreements with the care describing statements by using yes or no statement. Each rating has given a value and then the satisfactions score is calculated by the average of all responses for generating single score or scores for different clinical care settings or activities Objective structured Clinical Examination In the OSCE method, one or two assessment tools are managed by almost 12-20 patient encounter stations. Each station lasts after 10-15 minutes. Candidates may complete the patient notes or a detailed written examination about some previous patients encounter. All candidates move from one station to other station with the sequence of same schedule. Standardized patients are considered as the primary assessment tools that are used in OSCEs but it includes data interpretation exercise with the clinical cases and clinical conditions with anatomical models for the assessment of technical skills. 360 degree evaluation method 360-degreee evaluation method includes measurement tools that are to be completed by multiple people under the persons sphere of influence. The evaluators are peers, subordinates, patients, families and supervisors. This evaluation process uses questionnaire to collect information about the performances of individuals on several topics such as communication, management skills, decision- making, teamwork etc. The process also include rating scales for the assessment that how the behavior is performed. Then the ratings are summarized for all type of evaluations by the topic and overall for the purpose of providing feedback. Chart stimulated recall oral examination (CSR) In the CSR, the examinees are assessed in the form of standardized oral examinations. A trained and experienced examiner asks the questions about care provided for the reasons behind the diagnoses, interpretation of clinical findings and some treatment plans. The examiners rate the examinee by using well established scoring procedure. The well designed CSR cases generally take 5 to 10 minutes for each one but the typical CSR process is of two hours with one or more than one examiners/ physician per separates sessions of 30-60 minutes. Written Examinations This is just the test using Multiple- choice questions to check for the performance on participants. Simulation and model Simulation methods are used to assess the clinical performances and that are close to the reality and attempt to reproduce (Novotny et al., 2006; Waltz et al, 2010). However, these are not used for duplicating real clinical problems. Here are some attributes for simulation methods allow the examinees for a reason through the clinical problems without any signal. They integrate some options, permit the examinees for making some threatening errors without any damage to the patient, provide feedback to correct the mistake done, give rating to the performances of examinees on some clinical problems, which are impossible at the time of evaluation effectively. Some simulation methods have been developed as PMPs (patient management problems), role- playing situation (clinical team simulations, standardized patients (SPs), anatomical models or the combination of these three types. Anatomical models are used for body organs for pathological findings to simulate the disease of patients. VR sim ulations (virtual reality simulations) use computers with anatomical models and that allows an assessment of procedural skills and other clinical tasks Hereon, in the case at hand, we had made use of Simulation and model technique. This technique seems to be the best choice for this task because the course relates to learning of the force tread valley lab and Aatherny machine that is recently implemented in our department. The simulated environment gives a number of options that relate to reality. The student can learn practically, using this approach. I gave the students an opportunity to perform in the real time environment. In this practical environment, students are able to perform practically, and even there is no risk of any patients health. Thus, the life is safe as well. Direct practice on an individual is quite a risky practice. Therefore, the risk free method shall be made into practice. Hereon, the assessment method suggested very good results for me. It was quite a fair way to assess anyone. There cannot be any sort of variation due to any reason. Even the chances of biasness are minimized using the approach. What matter s in this assessment method is the practical performance. Critical Reflection The learning process in nursing is of quite importance. The successors of the course are expected to be responsible for the lives of people in the future. Therefore, there is the need for proper assessment of an individual who enrols in the program. I was given an opportunity to assess the performance of my students. My students were performing well in the theory sessions. I found that the force tread valley lab and Aatherny Machine are quite crucial to in the nursing related activities. The students here in our course were trying to workout to learn how to make use of these devices in practice. One who makes use of both the machine and the knowledge of nursing is the actual nursing specialist, else knowing how to operate a machine would just make him limit to being a machine operator (Andrist et al., 2006; APA, 2008). The nurses are seen facing trouble in using technological devices since the mid 1960s (Sandlelowski, 2000). Thus, there is something, which acts as a hurdle against the process of learning to handle technological devices. The process suggests the right use of skills in order to gain from the machines. The skills of nurses are evaluated more and more using the usage skills of machines (Ferguson Calder, 1993), as t hese machines have become an indispensible part in ones nursing course process. Even the introduction of the machine in our department adds to the reason for learning the process of using machine. Hereon, the results I got from the performance of students was quite astonishing. I was happy to see that some of the students operated the machine in simulated environment in such a good manner that it seems that these students can operate in a real world environment as well. These students are expected to grow at a good rate within their career arena. However, the performance of some of the students was too bad. We are lucky that we have the assessment model of simulated environment, from which we can find out the students who are too weak to handle the practical situations. These students are too risky to operate in real term. Therefore, the right use of the simulated environment was of help for me to analyse the performance of students and their easiness to operate the machine. Based on the assessment, the weaker students are suggested to work out on their learning sessions. Machines are usually found tough to be used by the students in general (Brown Edwards, 2007; Anderson, 2000). The student needs to learn the process of using the machine along with implementation of their nursing knowledge, which is not an easy task. Therefore, the problem situation arises hereon. In our case, as our department did not make use of any machine in earlier days, but sudden incorporation of machine in our department had acted as a hurdle against our regular management operations. The need of proper knowledge in technical terms can help an individual to perform in a better manner. Thus, mentors are quite crucial to assess the students. I shall however keep an eye to maintain the standards as per the NMC (2006). This suggests me to assess thoroughly each of the students performance. This would help me in reaching to the right assessment decision. Conclusion The assessment has been an important player in the success of an individuals performance. Thus, I need to properly evaluate the students to understand their comfort with using the force tread valley lab and Aatherny Machine. The simulated assessment method used by me was quite a good choice. I was able to clearly analyse and evaluate the performance of individuals. Some of the students were though finding it tough to use the machine. This was mainly due to the reason that our organization did not use the machine earlier. Thus, it further added to the complexity of assessing the students. I found the successful candidates in this evaluation method were quite strong in their performance activities, and I expect the bright future of these individuals. The recent implementation of machine in our department acted as the major reason for this. The learning to use a machine is a time consuming process. It is expected that with due course of time, my students would be able to learn the way to use the machine. However, I have even planned extra sessions for those who do not perform well during my assessment sessions. These special sessions would be aimed to help the students in learning the areas they are lacking in. This way, I would be able to generate brighter talent from my department, which can be a great asset for future nursing.

The Awakening: Edna :: essays research papers

The Awakening: Edna This is a look at "The Awakening" by Kate Chopin. When you first look at the life of Edna you think there is not much to discuss. Edna is a married woman who at first seems vaguely satisfied with her life--"she grew fond of her husband, realizing with some unaccountable satisfaction that no trace of passion or excessive and fictitious warmth colored her affection, thereby threatening its dissolution." (Chopin, 558). Edna doesn't know what she wants from life. It is evident from the way she tries to change her life to make it better, that she wants her own happiness. She refuses to stay home on Tuesdays, which she is expected to do to satisfy the social conventions of the time. She spends more time on her art. She goes to races and parties all the time. All of this doesn't seem to help her maintain happiness all the time. There were days when she was very happy without knowing why. She was happy to be alive and breathing, when her whole being seemed to be one with the sunlight, the color, the odors, the luxuriant warmth of some perfect Southern day. There were days when she was unhappy, she did not know why, when it did not seem worth while to be glad or sorry, to be dead or alive; when life appeared to her like a grotesque Pandemonium and humanity like worms struggling blindly toward inevitable annihilation. (Chopin, 588) Edna struggled to make her life more fulfilling. Edna wanted what? Passion, excitement? She states to the Doctor, "But I don't want anything but my own way. That is wanting a good deal, of course, when you have to trample upon the lives, the hearts, the prejudices of others--but no matter--still, I shouldn't want to trample upon the little lives." (Chopin, 629). In the title of "The Awakening" I get the impression of someone waking up and deciding that their life is not what they want. Edna goes from being reasonably happy in her life to very unhappy with her life and tries to change it to make it better. The ways she goes about it are not necessarily the right ways, but at least she tries to change it to make it better. The acceptable behaviors of the time in which she lived worked against her. Edna stays married because divorce was unheard of in those days. She wants to marry Robert, but he will not because it will disgrace her to leave her husband. She exceeds the social boundaries of the day by going her own way and The Awakening: Edna :: essays research papers The Awakening: Edna This is a look at "The Awakening" by Kate Chopin. When you first look at the life of Edna you think there is not much to discuss. Edna is a married woman who at first seems vaguely satisfied with her life--"she grew fond of her husband, realizing with some unaccountable satisfaction that no trace of passion or excessive and fictitious warmth colored her affection, thereby threatening its dissolution." (Chopin, 558). Edna doesn't know what she wants from life. It is evident from the way she tries to change her life to make it better, that she wants her own happiness. She refuses to stay home on Tuesdays, which she is expected to do to satisfy the social conventions of the time. She spends more time on her art. She goes to races and parties all the time. All of this doesn't seem to help her maintain happiness all the time. There were days when she was very happy without knowing why. She was happy to be alive and breathing, when her whole being seemed to be one with the sunlight, the color, the odors, the luxuriant warmth of some perfect Southern day. There were days when she was unhappy, she did not know why, when it did not seem worth while to be glad or sorry, to be dead or alive; when life appeared to her like a grotesque Pandemonium and humanity like worms struggling blindly toward inevitable annihilation. (Chopin, 588) Edna struggled to make her life more fulfilling. Edna wanted what? Passion, excitement? She states to the Doctor, "But I don't want anything but my own way. That is wanting a good deal, of course, when you have to trample upon the lives, the hearts, the prejudices of others--but no matter--still, I shouldn't want to trample upon the little lives." (Chopin, 629). In the title of "The Awakening" I get the impression of someone waking up and deciding that their life is not what they want. Edna goes from being reasonably happy in her life to very unhappy with her life and tries to change it to make it better. The ways she goes about it are not necessarily the right ways, but at least she tries to change it to make it better. The acceptable behaviors of the time in which she lived worked against her. Edna stays married because divorce was unheard of in those days. She wants to marry Robert, but he will not because it will disgrace her to leave her husband. She exceeds the social boundaries of the day by going her own way and

Red Adair :: essays research papers

Intro - "I've done made a deal with the devil. He said he's going to give me an air-conditioned place when I go down there, if I go there, so I won't put all the fires out." A genuine American hero, Red Adair fought the most terrifying force of nature all over the world for more than 50 years. The oil fires were so hot they melt nearby cars and could roast a man in an instant. Red Adair was an innovator in the development of new fire-fighting techniques that make the oil fields safer and time after time he would risk his own life challenging the most disastrous oil fires of modern times. I. Birth and Childhood. A. Paul N. "Red" Adair was born June 18, 1915 in Houston, Texas. 1. His parents, Mary and Charles Adair, also had four other sons and three daughters. 2. The family lived in the Heights of Houston where his father worked as a blacksmith. B. After attending Harvard Elementary School and Hogg Junior High School, he quit Reagan High School to help support the family. He held many different jobs from the time he quit high school until he went to work for the Southern Pacific Railroad in 1936. II. Career A. In 1938 Red was hired by the Otis Pressure Control Company, his first oil related job. B. Red continued to work at odd jobs in the oil patch until he was inducted into the United States Army in 1945. 1. Red served in the 139th Bomb Disposal Squadron through the end of World War II and achieved the rank of Staff Sergeant. 2. He returned home to Houston following the war and went to work for Myron Kinley, the original pioneer of oil well fire and blowout control. Red continued to work for and with Mr. Kinley until 1959. C. After fourteen years with the M. M. Kinley Company, Red resigned and formed Red Adair Company, Inc. to control oil well fires and blowouts. 1. Through Red Adair Company, Red pioneered the development of modern-day effective Wild Well Control techniques and equipment and earned his reputation as "best in the business." 2. Red and other members of his firefighting team averaged controlling over 42 oilwell fires and blowouts per year, inland and offshore, all over the world. Red and his men represent over a century of Wild Well Control and expertise, completing over 1,000 jobs internationally. III. Awards and Accomplishments A. One of Red's greatest tasks and accomplishments occurred in 1991 following the Gulf War with Iraq.

The Opportunities and Limitations in Using a Single Camera Essays

The Opportunities and Limitations in Using a Single Camera In the early days of film making the director would not have the choice of using the multi-camera setups and editing suites that we have today. He or she would have just one camera to shoot all the shots needed and then when it came to the editing process, all the shots would need to be selected, the different frames sliced apart, and spliced back together in the desired order. As you can imagine this was a time consuming process, and although this appeared to be a big limitation on some television genre's at the time such as sit-com and live broadcasts, it allowed the film industry to flourish. The use of the single camera drew the director into a more creative role leaving open the opportunity to work more closely with actors, and to get the best results from them. Because of the number of shots needing to be taken rehearsals are more intense, and need to be practiced down to a T. Using a single camera you can mimic the look of multi camera setups by repeating the scene as many times as needed to get all the angles, generally the shots that are needed are; master shot, medium shot and close-ups, with any cutaways that are needed filmed at the end. The rushes are then edited together into the final piece. Although this method is extremely time consuming, and gruelling for the actors, it allows the director to push the actors, and to get across exactly what is in his mind. Another creative ... The Opportunities and Limitations in Using a Single Camera Essays The Opportunities and Limitations in Using a Single Camera In the early days of film making the director would not have the choice of using the multi-camera setups and editing suites that we have today. He or she would have just one camera to shoot all the shots needed and then when it came to the editing process, all the shots would need to be selected, the different frames sliced apart, and spliced back together in the desired order. As you can imagine this was a time consuming process, and although this appeared to be a big limitation on some television genre's at the time such as sit-com and live broadcasts, it allowed the film industry to flourish. The use of the single camera drew the director into a more creative role leaving open the opportunity to work more closely with actors, and to get the best results from them. Because of the number of shots needing to be taken rehearsals are more intense, and need to be practiced down to a T. Using a single camera you can mimic the look of multi camera setups by repeating the scene as many times as needed to get all the angles, generally the shots that are needed are; master shot, medium shot and close-ups, with any cutaways that are needed filmed at the end. The rushes are then edited together into the final piece. Although this method is extremely time consuming, and gruelling for the actors, it allows the director to push the actors, and to get across exactly what is in his mind. Another creative ...

Energy Cooperative Essay

There are over 400,000 members worldwide that pay annual dues. They receive a very small fee for being web based providing their votes and input. The problem ethically is how much are they getting paid, what information are they researching to help the organization, why are they web based, and where does all the money go that is paid by members? John Locke’s theory of rights would ask the question â€Å"Is this organization giving the members their rights? (2012) eguide LS312 Chapter 1. Meaning do the members know where their money is going and do they know their rights and are their rights being broken? Immanuel Kant’s categorical imperative theory would ask this nonprofit organization if their intentions are in the right place. The article states that the organization exists because they want to help energy plants and educate about energy, but again, where are the profits going, and what are their real intentions. (2012) eguide LS312 Chapter 1. In Jeremy Betham and john Stuart Mill’s theory of Utilitarianism, I as a member of the board would ask, if the good outweighs the bad. I personally think in any situation, even if the good does outweigh the bad, all efforts should focus on having all good intentions. (2012) eguide LS312 Chapter 1. If I as a board member used John Rawls theory of justice I would worry about each individual’s rights. The utilitarianism theory would recommend one person losing their job in order to save ten jobs but on the other hand, the justice theory would say no, that one individual was treated unethically. Lawrence Kohlberg developed three levels of moral development. Level 1. Pre-Conventional 1.Seeking rewards 2.Reaction to punishment Level 2. Conventional 3.Law and Order 4.Good Boy/Girl Level 3. Post Conventional 5. Social Contract 6. Universal Ethical Priciples I would use Lawrence Kohlberg’s theory as a guide to see at which development level others are at. Each of these levels consist with the age of a child with level 1 being an infant. So all of these theories could be used in order to see if a company is running ethically or not, and I wouldn’t just use one theory.

How equal opportunities and managing diversity impact on organisations and their HRM practices

Abstract Diversity in organizations has been increasing, especially in the past decade. This has brought about the need for managers in organizations to ensure that they implement effective policies that will not only reduce discrimination but also increase the productivity of their diverse workforces. This report presents a research that was carried out using both primary and secondary approaches to establish the importance of inclusion and diversity management on organizations. Whereas the importance of diversity management is highlighted in this report, there is also evidence that points out the challenges that managers may face in managing diversity. Introduction In any organization, human resources are among the most vital assets to its success. Thus, it is imperative for them to be manages in the most effective manner that will optimize their productivity. One of the trends that characterize the 21st century human resource force in the United Kingdom is the increase in workplace diversity (Michalle & Barak, 2010). The basis of effectively managing diversity at the workplace is acknowledging the differences that may exist among the company’s workforce and implementing workplace practices that create an inclusive environment for all employees. It is worth noting that there are different types of diversity in workplaces. These include gender, race and religion (Poster, 2008). Having able and disabled employees also represents a certain degree of diversity. Effective management of diversity benefits organizations by improving communication among employees and facilitating innovation and diversity. For businesses, having a diverse workfor ce helps in addressing needs of a diverse customer base and thus, an increase in returns (Tarmac, 2012). In regard to this, this report presents findings from primary and secondary research that was carried out to establish the importance of embracing and managing workplace diversity. Research Approach As aforementioned, this research was carried out using both secondary and primary approaches. The secondary approach involved reviewing literature that has been published on various databases about the subject of workplace diversity. A preference was given to peer-reviewed journal articles because of their renowned credibility in terms of the researched information they offer (Yin, 2010). Since the time and resources to carry out an exhaustive primary research was limited, semi-structured interviews were used to collect qualitative data from a seven colleagues in college. The data was collected through an audio recording for further analysis. This approach was selected because it is relatively informal and does not require a lot of time to get the required information (Yin, 2010). FindingsFindings from Secondary ResearchMany researchers have carried out studies the subject of workplace diversity. However, as pointed out by Herring (2009), this concept is relatively new, dating to the 1980s. Some of the factors that have contributed to an increase in workplace diversity include the increased immigration – especially to developed countries – which has led to an increasingly international workforce. The equality campaigns that have been on the increase have also led to an increase the number of ethnic minorities and women in the present-day labour pool. It is evident that if poorly managed, diversity will adversely affect productivity of human resources. Thus, human resource managers in organizations ought to implement effective diversity management practices so as to turn diversity into an advantage (The Times 100, 2013).Importance of Managing Workplace DiversityWith the ever increasing diversity in global population and workplaces, it is vital to establish the benefits of managing diversity. Michalle and Barak (2010) argue that diversity increases the productivity of employees. This is because of the fact that a diverse workplace comprises of different talents, skills and experiences, and if these differences are combined and directed towards the achievement of a common goal, it is certain that it will be advantageous to the organization. In another research on workplace diversity, Herring (2009) established that effective management of a diverse workforce increases creativity and problem solving. By treating contributions of every employee at the workplace as important, regardless of their experience, race or gender, useful insights about how to approach a certain task in the organization can be found. Organizations that fail to take advantage of the diversity in their workforces may lock out ideas from employees that may be of phenomenal importance to the progress of the company. Companies that have created a reputation for effective management of diversity have the advantage of attracting and retaining a diverse workforce, which comes with diverse talents and capabilities. Inclusion in the workplace motivates employees by creating in them a sense of belonging. Acknowledging diversity in the workplace motivates the employees and also increases their levels of commitment towards the organization. In a study carried out by Groeneveld (2011) on management of workplace diversity and its impacts on employee turnover, he established that companies adhering to diversity policies in recruitment and other human resource management practices in their organization had much less cases of employee turnover than those whose diversity management approaches were not as ideal. Given that diversity will be almost inevitable in future, organizations have to ensure that they put the most effective diversity management practices in place. There is also a legal advantage of manag ing diversity in organizations and encouraging inclusion. Application of appropriate approaches in diversity management limits the chances of lawsuits by employees that feel excluded (Michalle & Barak, 2010). Not only does this save money that could have been spent on litigation expenses, it also creates a positive reputation of the organization to a wide range of stakeholders. Tadmor et al. (2012) argue that companies that target a market with diverse customers greatly benefits from employing a diverse workforce. For instance, if a company has a marketing team that comprises of people from different races, religions and genders, the possibility of such a team attracting a wide range of customers is higher as compared to a team that consists of people from the same gender, race or religion. Thus, effective diversity management may increase the returns of a company by attracting more customers.Challenges of Workplace Diversity ManagementEven though management of diversity has many ad vantages for employers and employees in organizations, Canas and Sondak (2010) argue that there are several associated challenges. Management of diversity involves the recognition of the value associated with the differences in the workforce, promotion of inclusiveness and elimination of any kind of discrimination that exists in the workforce. Ensuring that all these aspects of management are exhaustively addressed may be challenging for human resource managers, especially when diversity among employees is quite extensive. Some of the disadvantages that are associated with poor workplace diversity management include increased employee turnover, lack of synergy and ineffective communication among employees, and an increase in the chances of companies facing lawsuits and negative publicity (Tarmac, 2012). A recent example of a diversity issue that tainted the image of an organization took place in 2011, when a Liverpool hospital placed an advertisement for job vacancies. In their cond itions for application, the included as statement that referred to equal opportunities as â€Å"usual rubbish† (Hough, 2011). Even though the statement was replaced after negative feedback from the public, it has drawn negative attention from different parts of the world, which has also affected reputation of the hospital. For effective diversity management, Herring (2009) suggests that managers have to first understand the diverse needs of their employees and identify areas from which discrimination may arise. They should then create the ideal policies that will ensure inclusiveness in the organization.Findings from Primary ResearchTo establish the impacts of equal opportunities and diversity management in the workplace, mixed reactions were obtained from some of the peers that were interviewed. Whereas two of them were of the view that ensuring workplace inclusion may be unnecessary for organizations, five of the respondents were for the idea that managing diversity is amon g the most important human resource management practices of the 21st century.Responses in support of Workplace DiversityOne of the questions that the subjects were asked was how diversity may affect the productivity of an organization. In response to this question, one of the respondents, who is a proponent of diversity argued, â€Å"There is no way that a company in the 21st century can survive without having a diverse workforce. Diversity does not only exist in the colour of the skin or the language we speak. Everywhere in the UK, there is diversity in religion, gender, and generations. What companies ought to do is agree that diversity is inevitable, and find ways to deal with it for their own advantage.† This response indicates that there is widespread knowledge about diversity and organizations ought to device the necessary approaches to increase productivity of their diverse employees. Another respondent added â€Å"Diversity in the workplace is good. Though it may be difficult at the start, continued co-operation with team members from different backgrounds makes it possible to understand and appreciate one another. If I am offered a job in two companies, one with a good reputation of inclusion and another known for discriminating against some workers, I will definitely choose the one that has created a reputation of inclusiveness†Responses against Workplace DiversityIn response to the same question on how diversity may affect productivity of an organization, another respondent who thought diversity is overemphasized argued, â€Å"I think diversity in organizations is a good thing, but organizations ought to focus more on merit. If I have vacancies in my company and I am looking for the best employees to fill those positions, I should not be forced to select a ‘diverse workforce’ because the policies say so, instead, I need to select the most qualified candidates. If the most qualified candidates are from the same gender, eth nic or religious backgrounds, I should be free to hire them. This whole diversity debate may not be as constructive as we think it is.† The response given by this respondent is also quite sensible, which indicates that there are some disadvantages that are associated with workplace diversity policies. Findings from primary research, as indicated, were mixed. Whether the response provided by the respondents supports or is against the importance of diversity in the workplace, they both acknowledge the existence of diversity issues in the 21st century. However, most of the respondents were in support of the implementation of appropriate diversity management strategies. This indicates that equal opportunities and management of diversity in organizations is among the most important practices in present-day human resource management. With a projected increase in levels of diversity in the UK population, as well as other parts of the world, it will be inevitable for organizations to have a diverse workforce (Canas & Sondak, 2010). Conclusion The 21st century has been characterized with a phenomenal increase in diversity among population across the globe, which has also affected the composition of employees in many organizations. This research had the aim of establishing the importance of inclusion and the management of diversity in organizations. Even though some disadvantages of employee diversity were established from the primary and secondary research that was carried out, most of the respondents and all the secondary sources accessed indicated that inclusion and diversity management is a very vital human resource practice. From the findings of the research, one of the recommendations that can be made for human resource managers is that all employees have to be informed on the importance of workplace diversity and how to effectively collaborate with their workmates from different backgrounds and gender. References Canas, K.A. & Sondak, H., 2010. Opportunities and challenges of workplace diversity. New York: Prentice Hall. Groeneveld, S., 2011. Diversity and employee turnover in the Dutch public sector: Does diversity management make a differenceInternational Journal of Public Sector Management, 24(6), pp.594-612. Herring, C., 2009. Does Diversity Pay?: Race, Gender, and the Business Case for Diversity. American Sociological Review, 74, pp.208-24. Hough, A., 2011. NHS hospital ‘usual equal opportunities rubbish’ job advert sparks investigation. The Telegraph, 5 September. Michalle, E. & Barak, M., 2010. Managing Diversity: Toward a Globally Inclusive Workplace. Thousand Oaks, CA: SAGE Publications. Poster, W.R., 2008. Filtering Diversity : A Global Corporation Struggles With Race, Class, and Gender in Employment Policy. American Behavioral Scientist, 52(3), pp.307-41. Tadmor, C.T., Satterstrom, P., Jang, S. & Polzer, J.T., 2012. Beyond Individual Creativity The Superadditive Benefits of Multicultural Experience for Collective Creativity in Culturally Diverse Teams. Journal of Cross-Cultural Psychology, 43(3), pp.384-92. Tarmac, 2012. Diversity and inclusion policy. [Online] Available at: http://www.tarmac.co.uk/about_us/about_tarmac/idoc.ashx?docid=ffe70bb0-4510-476a-8dd4-b352a63c1b48&version=-1 [Accessed 26 February 2014]. The Times 100, 2013. Competetive advantage through diversity. [Online] Available at: http://businesscasestudies.co.uk/tarmac/competitive-advantage-through-diversity/conclusion.html#axzz2MxtlEGBP [Accessed 26 February 2014]. Yin, R.K., 2010. Qualitative Research from Start to Finish. New York: Guilford Press.

Doel

Background With the promise of making this country into â€Å"Digital Bangladesh† the government of Bangladesh introduced its first notebook to target the segment of the people of Bangladesh who can`t afford to buy a costly big name laptop. Doel is the first Netbook made in Bangladesh by Telephone Shilpa-Songstha Limited, which is situated in Tongi, Gazipur. Named after the national bird, Doel is the first ever laptop brand to be assembled in Bangladesh, which is believed to revolutionise the high tech industry of the country.With the aim to bridge the communication gap between our people and ICT, by providing laptops at an affordable rate, this initiative provides scopes to build capacity, train local manpower and strengthen the country’s ICT expertise. At present, Shilpa Songsthe Limited has manufactured four different classes of Netbooks: The Basic DOEL Netbook, DOEL Primary Netbook, DOEL Standard Netbook and DOEL Advanced Netbook Need for Research: To know and under stand our county as potential market for laptop computers I need to know what customer and potential customers’ perception towards a Bangladesh made laptop.Would it be lucrative industries for laptop manufacturing will depend on how accept Doel as a Bangladeshi laptop brand. Should other home grown brands come up with line of laptops for general people. Problem Definition: Prospect of Doel the first notebook made in Bangladesh Objectives * Know Perception towards Bangladeshi laptop brand Doel among laptop users * Assess Prospect of rising industry surrounding laptop/notebook computers in Bangladesh * Find out the Factors that Influence people to buy notebook /laptops Research Design The research will be done by conducting survey on users and potential laptop users in Bangladesh.The survey will also cover the segment of people who cannot afford laptops but might be benefitted by it. That means rural businessman, students, SME owners etc. Data Collection To conduct the research we need data and statistics of various kinds. Data will be collected from both primary and secondary sources Primary source: sample survey on users and potential laptop users of Bangladesh Interview Secondary sources: News articles Publications on ICT industry in Bangladesh Websites Blogs Data Analysis Data analysis will be done using statistical software spss.