This graph shows the traffic going out of Birmingham City Centre using Broad Street

This graph shows the traffic going out of Birmingham City Centre using Broad Street. Cars are the main means of transport going out of Birmingham City Centre. Cars start off quite low. However, at 9:00 AM there is an increase of the number of cars going out of Birmingham City Centre. This may be due to a â€Å"rush hour†. However, this only lasts for an hour. Furthermore there is yet another increase of cars going out of Birmingham City Centre at 11:00 AM. This may be due to the fact it's getting nearer to lunch time. After an hour the decrease happens again. But, at 13:00 AM there is a massive increase of cars. This may be due to leaving after completing their shopping. The amount of cars going out of Birmingham City Centre carries on increasing whilst the day goes on. Vans/mbs start off quite similarly, with the amount of vans/mbs starting off quite low and gradually increasing. The same pattern is shows with the buses. Lorries start off quite high but keep decreasing as the day goes on. Bicycles stay low constantly through the day. This graph shows the traffic going into Birmingham City Centre using Broad Street. Cars are the main vehicles going into Broad Street. We can see this due to the fact that cars have the highest amount of vehicles by looking at the graph. Lorries and bicycles however, have the lowest amount. During the early hours of the day the number of cars starts off quite high with the rush hour being at about 8:00 AM. As the day goes on it starts to decrease. However at around 12:00 PM there is a sudden increase of traffic going into Birmingham City Centre. This may be due to the fact it's around lunch time. At around 13:00 PM, there is a decline in the amount of traffic going in. Then it begins to rise for an hour up until 14:00 PM, when it starts to decrease again. From 14:00 PM till 17:00 PM the traffic going in carries on decreasing. Buses and vans/mbs stay relatively close together in terms of the amount of each that appears to be going into Broad Street. However, buses show the same type of pattern that cars show. During 8:00AM till 9:00PM the amount of buses is quite high. This is quite similar with the vans/mbs. There is a sudden increase at 13:00PM. However Lorries and bicycles always stay low through the day. This graph shows the passenger car units (PCU) coming into Broad street. PCU stands for passenger car unit. This metric is used to measure the traffic-flow rate on a road such as Broad Street. The graph above is probably the most vital evidence that helps solve my hypothesis. This graph would give me a clear idea of whether Broad Street (a main route into the city) was congested. Using the Government figures the saturation point for a road such as Broad Street is 1522. This meant that when a value was over this, the road was congested. The graph shows that Broad Street was congested throughout the day. At 9:00 AM it's at its highest (2780), this is peak time in other words. From 11:00 AM onwards, the figures always stayed above 2000 but stayed below 2500. I can say that Broad Street on that day was congested at all times.

The 1/3 Technology Partnership Challenge

The improvement of the fifth generation (5G) mobile and wireless networks has advanced at a fast pace. The 1/3 technology Partnership challenge (3GPP) aims to complete the initial no standalone option of 5G till the cease of 2017. on account that mid-2015, the ecu Union (european) budget 5G Public private Partnership (5GPPP) phase 1 projects1 that have played an vital role in organising a pre-standardization consensus on regions starting from physical layer to average architecture, network management and software networks. Numerous technologies and innovations from these projects have substantially contributed to the development in requirements growing groups (SDOs). With the intention of consolidating the final results of 5GPPP tasks into an common structure imaginative and prescient and responding to the diverse requirements of 5G use cases and offerings, the 5G architecture running institution has been energetic for the reason that begin of the 5GPPP initiative. The 5G device has the ambition of responding to the widest range of offerings and packages inside the records of mobile and wireless communications categorized in (i) better mobile broadband (eMBB), (ii) extremely-reliable and low-latency communications (URLLC) and (iii) massive device-type communications (mMTC). In responding to the requirements of these offerings and packages, the 5G gadget targets to offer a bendy platform allowing new business instances and fashions integrating vertical industries, such as, car, manufacturing, energy, eHealth, and amusement. in this foundation, network cutting emerges as a promising future-evidence framework adhering to the technological and business needs of various industries. To acquire this intention, community reducing wishes to be designed from an end-to-end attitude, spanning over distinctive era domain names (e.g., core, shipping and get right of entry to networks) and administrative domains (e.g., exceptional cell network operators) which includes management and orchestration features. Moreover, safety architecture shall be natively incorporated into the general structure, pleasing the requirements of offerings and programs touching on safety-vital use instances. The objective first to get familiar with 5G security the way it has been addressed through Phase 1 in terms the â€Å"What† and â€Å"Why† but additionally, and possibly most significantly, pave the manner for Phase 2 initiatives so we can leverage the achievements resulting from this first Phase.

A Plan in the Business of Entrepreneurship

The clothing industry has been experiencing profitable growth in recent years. It has been seen that small and medium enterprises have been experiencing remarkable growth in the clothing industry. In this context, the researcher will discuss a business a plan for opening a clothing retail store in Singapore. The co-owners will operate the business in an effective manner. The venture will be named as Models boutique having a wide range of traditional and modern clothing for women. The stylish product collection and the affordable pricing will be the highlighted areas of the business. The organization will accumulate funds from equity investment, specific grants and owner’s investment. The primary competitive advantage is the absence of such clothing retail in the specific location. Moreover, the co-owners of the company have worked in the clothing industry for 20 years. Hence, the experience will facilitate them to establish a successful business in the domestic market. Singapore has 5.54 million population, and 49% of them are female (Akhtaruzzaman and Hasanuzzaman 2012). Hence, it indicates the growth opportunity for the Models boutique. The strong part of the business is that the organization will provide a huge discount on every product for market promotion. Moreover, Models boutique will include a huge range of new clothing collection for attracting teenagers and middle age women. Models boutique is a small retail venture, which will sell the stylish clothing to women in the society. Models boutiques will be located in Singapore. The initial objective of the organization is to open a boutique and expand its business to the large demographic areas. The aim of the boutique is to become the leader among small businesses. Models boutique will include the potential franchise for the expansion of the business. The vision of the organization is to obtain profitable outcome from the business. The mission of Models Boutique suggests that the company will establish a brand value in the domestic market within five years of time span. The prime motive of the organization is to engage a huge number of women in their business to enhance the profitability in an effective manner. By discussing the products and services, it can be assessed that the fashion industry is youth focused (Asuyama et al. 2013). We will tailor our inventory to meet customer’s requirement. Models boutique will include both traditional and modern clothes for women in the society. We will focus on the style, color, and fits of the products in order to satisfy our clients. Singapore has experienced $3.5 billion retail sales in 2015. There are roughly 5.54 million populations in Singapore (Davies 2012). 49.6% of them are women. Hence, it indicates the huge market potentiality for the clothing business. Models boutique will initially approach local customers. However, we will augment our accomplishment after building a strong brand image in the market. The industry size has been expanding as the population increases. The Huge market chain will facilitate to engage a huge number of customers in the business (Foerster et al. 2014). The structure of the business includes both macro and micro environments. Customers, shareholders, suppliers will be the key components of the business structure. The industry and market trends suggest that the clothing business will touch a new height within 2-3 years. The segmentation of market will be based on the demographic, social and cultural aspects. We will segregate the market as per the income level of families. At th e initial stage, we may face challenges to adopting the customer’s behavior towards our products and services. In the fashion industry, buyers behavior change frequently based on the current market trends (Gupta and Hodges 2012).   By analyzing the competitors, it can be assessed that the Models Boutique has some tough competition in the market. Huge growth in the clothing industry has increased the market competition for Models boutique. The strength of the company is that the Model boutique will focus on the pricing model for engaging women in the society. On the other hand, the major weakness of the company is that Model boutique does not have a strong financial background like other branded clothing store located in Singapore.   The target customers are women of all ages. In the initial stage, Models boutique will focus on targeting middle-class families. However, the wide range of the collection will attract women from all communities. Models boutique will try to build a strong customer’s base in the business for obtaining profitable outcome of the business. The company will consider demographic, social and cultural aspects for segmenting the market in an effective manner (Hwang, Fang Tan and Sathish 2013). The target of the company is to attract the teenage and middle-age women in the society. The unique selling point of the products is that customers will get both traditional and modern clothes with huge discounts. Moreover, the organization will engage tailoring services for providing best fittings to the customers. The model boutique will be able to attract women by the unique design of the products. It will also provide ethnic wear for women. The model boutique will consider the cultural value of the customers.   The organization will beat its competitors by a wide range of traditional and modern clothing collection along with a huge discount on each product.   The market strategy consists of several factors including pricing strategy, competitive reaction, launching strategy, sales plans, brand improvement, product and marketing development and growth potentials (Kochhan et al. 2014). Models boutique will be launched with a grand opening. The opening event will include the media coverage, print advertisement, and client’s direct-mail campaign. At the launching event, Models boutique will engage a famous face from the fashion industry for the brand enhancement. The primary sales tactics will be enhanced through several promotional activities including social media promotion, online promotion, printing promotion and digital media promotion (Kohpaiboon, Kulthanavit and Jongwanich 2012). Models boutique has a target of brand development within a year. The organization will include several survey methods for accumulating feedbacks from the customers. Consequently, it will facilitate in the brand development program. The products and marketing development will be executed in a systematic manner. Models boutique will implement new strategies for products and market development based on current market statistics. Finally, the pricing model will be implemented in the business considering economic condition of the society (Nattrass and Seekings 2013). However, the organization will be focused on the reasonable pricing strategy for enhancing brand promotion in the domestic market. Our goal is to keep the financial budget not exceeding 5% of the annual gross sales. Moreover, Models boutique will collaborate with local companies and various fashion malls. The operation plan includes the key operative activities, partnerships, business controls, IP issues, and scalability (Oh, Teo and Sambamurthy 2012). Models boutique will execute the business six days in a week from 9 am to 7 pm. The shop will be extended during the holiday seasons and special occasions. The trade store will include two floors of a building. In the business, two full-time co-owner and 5 employees will be hired for executing the business in an effective manner. Models boutique will protect the merchandise from the home manufacturers with a showroom in the city. Moreover, the organization will include whole-seller merchandise for the business. On the other hand, Models boutique will effort together with its sales regional representative. The company will also organize fashion shows in order to enhance the promotional activities. A cost inventory level will be set in the business in order to control cost, track inventory, and management stock levels. Models boutique will be very strict to avoid the intellectual property issues (Park and Noh 2012). The company will employ a team for handling brand logo, store design, and others. A standard bar code will be employed in the inventory system. Moreover, it includes the related software. Staffs will execute the annual inventory audits in the business.   They will hire external auditors for the enhancement of the process. Entire accounting and finances will be executed through Peachtree software. By discussing the organizational structure, it can be assessed that Models boutique will involve small staffs as the business venture is small. In this context, co-owners will take the leadership role within the business. Moreover, they will be liable for meeting efforts, buying merchandise, managing inventory, daily operations and other administrative works (Staritz and Morris 2013). Small sales staffs will facilitate co-owners with assisting customers, protecting sells, and common upholding of stock in the business. Both key owners will handle daily responsibilities in the business. One of the co-owners will handle several operations including inventory management, staffs supervising and bookkeeping. On the other hand, other co-owner will execute the process of merchandise buying for the stores. Moreover, he will be responsible for upholding the intense alertness of trends within the business. Owners will also manage the public relations in order to enhance the business effectiveness in the market. Models boutique will involve total 5 sales staffs. However, the management believes that the particular business operations do not require any high-qualified employee. Consequently, it makes easier for the recruitment system. The organization will provide a bonus to employees in every year.   The prime resource for the business is workforce. However, Models boutique does not engage the huge workforce. Initially, the organization will open its stores in a building including two floors. However, it will be expensive to open a store at the heart of Singapore (Yusuf and Nabeshima 2012). Hence, Models boutique will spend a large amount of capital on business premises. On the other hand, it will engage a team to decorate store properly so that it can attract customers in an effective manner. At the initial stage, five employees will be hired for the store, and they will be provided wages on an hourly basis. Models boutique will employ enhanced software and technology in the business for enhancing its effectiveness. It will engage whole sellers for managing the production of the business in an effective manner. Models boutique requires $282,000 to start-up their venture in the market. The founders of the business contribute $50,000 to the start-up cost. Models boutique is currently seeking for funds from business loans and outside investors. At this moment, the Models boutique has total $50,000 in equity capital and added $12,000 for a specific grant. Co-owners have invested $25,000 each into Models boutique. Hence, Models boutique needs investors for accumulating $170,000 in equity investment and $50,000 in loans. Funds will be utilized in several sections including construction management, computer equipment, sales counter, and overall decoration. The financial projection includes segments as follows: Models boutique is expecting to collect annual sales of $285,000 in the 1 st financial year, $375,000 in 2 nd FY and $525,000 in 3 rd FY.   This collection will be based on marketing plans, products offering, store size, and locations. The average cost of goods sold will be 40% that indicates a gross margin of 60%. It can be assessed that the minimum fixed costs are $15,500 per month. Hence, the organization needs to produce sales of $25,833 per month to break even. Ii indicates that Models boutique will be in a profitable position on a monthly basis before the end of the 1 st FY. In the third year, Models boutique will receive net income of $105,000. Hence, the income statement indicates company’s profitability states in the business. Models boutique will accumulate instant payment from clients in the market. Hence, the cash flow statement will be significantly similar to the income statement. The cash flow statement evidently indicates Models boutique’s ability to covers all bills timely. Models boutique will launch its business with $200,000 in equity capital and $50,000 in loans. Supplier’s term in inventory and the credit amount will appear on the balance sheet as short-term liabilities. The balance sheet will not include the jewelry consignment from vendors. It will be expensed as sold. Models boutique may face some challenges in launching the business in the market. There are some risks for the business. The primary risk for the business is that Models boutique may not be able to attract customers with their business policy, as there is huge competition in the market. The threat from new companies may affect the business. Hence, Models boutique needs to focus on the risk monitoring process in order to identify the potential risks in the market. At the initial stage, the organization will take time for building a good relationship with the suppliers, vendors, and others stakeholders. It indicates a barrier for the market entry (Nattrass and Seekings 2013). By analyzing the critical success factors, it can be assessed that Models boutique will focus on their cost effective pricing model to build huge customer’s base in the market. On the other hand, the healthy relationship with suppliers and other stakeholders will facilitate the company in enhancing business opportunity in the domestic market. Models boutique needs to incorporate the sell in the market. The key milestone for the organization indicates its growth in the domestic market. A strategic approach to the business facilitates organization in enhancing the productivity in an effective manner. In a growing market, the company needs to progress the business by overcoming several challenges. For achieving the key milestone, the business needs to consider several aspects including prototype completion, formalization of partnership, securing key customers and obtaining finance (Gupta and Hodges 2012). The business will hold a customer’s base in order to experience profitable outcome from the business. the organization will uphold healthy relationship with the suppliers and shareholders of the business to progress the business in an effective manner, With the involvement of collaborative approaches, the organization will be able to expand its business in large demographic areas.  Ã‚   Akhtaruzzaman, M. and Hasanuzzaman, S., 2012. Exploring Prospect of the Clothing and Textile Industry: Is Bangladesh Following a Right Growth Strategy?.  World Journal of Social Sciences,  2(4), pp.150-161. Asuyama, Y., Chhun, D., Fukunishi, T., Neou, S. and Yamagata, T., 2013. Firm dynamics in the Cambodian garment industry: firm turnover, productivity growth and wage profile under trade liberalization.  Journal of the Asia Pacific Economy,  18(1), pp.51-70. Davies, K., 2012. The composition of Singaporean shopping centres.  The International Review of Retail, Distribution and Consumer Research,  22(3), pp.261-275. Foerster, S., Linnainmaa, J.T., Melzer, B.T. and Previtero, A., 2014.  Retail Financial Advice: Does One Size Fit All?  (No. w20712). National Bureau of Economic Research. Gupta, M. and Hodges, N., 2012. Corporate social responsibility in the apparel industry: An exploration of Indian consumers' perceptions and expectations.  Journal of Fashion Marketing and Management: An International Journal,  16(2), pp.216-233 Hwang, B.G., Fang Tan, H. and Sathish, S., 2013. Capital project performance measurement and benchmarking in Singapore.  Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management,  20(2), pp.143-159 Kochhan, R., Lim, J., Knackfuß, S., Gleyzes, D. and Lienkamp, M., 2014. Total cost of ownership and willingness-to-pay for private mobility in Singapore. In  Sustainable Automotive Technologies 2013  (pp. 251-261). Springer International Publishing Kohpaiboon, A., Kulthanavit, P. and Jongwanich, J., 2012. Structural adjustment and international migration: an analysis of the Thai clothing industry.  Oxford Development Studies,  40(2), pp.231-260. Kohpaiboon, A., Kulthanavit, P. and Jongwanich, J., 2012. Structural adjustment and international migration: an analysis of the Thai clothing industry.  Oxford Development Studies,  40(2), pp.231-260. Nattrass, N. and Seekings, J., 2013. Job destruction in the South African clothing industry: How an unholy alliance of organised labour, the state and some firms is undermining labour-intensive growth.  CSSR Working Paper, (323). Oh, L.B., Teo, H.H. and Sambamurthy, V., 2012. The effects of retail channel integration through the use of information technologies on firm performance.  Journal of Operations Management,  30(5), pp.368-381. Park, H.H. and Noh, M.J., 2012. The influence of innovativeness and price sensitivity on purchase intention of smart wear.  Journal of the Korean Society of Clothing and Textiles,  36(2), pp.218-230. Plieth, H., Bullinger, A.C. and Hansen, E.G., 2012. Sustainable entrepreneurship in the apparel industry.  Journal of Corporate Citizenship,2012(45), pp.123-138. Staritz, C. and Morris, M., 2013. Local embeddedness, upgrading and skill development: global value chains and foreign direct investment in Lesotho's apparel industry. Yusuf, S. and Nabeshima, K., 2012.  Some small countries do it better: rapid growth and its causes in Singapore, Finland, and Ireland. World Bank Publications.

Audience Analysis Paper Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words - 2

Audience Analysis Paper - Essay Example In the first place, it is necessary to consider the characteristics of the audience which can influence the communication. Admittedly, these characteristic features should be considered before the speaker starts working on the presentation. For instance, it is necessary to find out the number of listeners. This will enable the speaker to prepare the necessary quantity of visuals (Booher, 2002, p.48). Booher (2002) also points out that such data as â€Å"age, sex, race, religion, or political bent of the audience† are also important in terms of the preparation for the presentation. This information will assist the speaker to find the necessary communication channels with all members of the group. Booher (2002) states that it is essential to consider educational background of the audience as well. Apart from these characteristics it is also important to find out whether there are â€Å"taboo subjects or issues† (Booher, 2002, p.48). Thus, if the speaker touches upon some of such questions, the presentation effectiveness can be challenged since listeners (or even some of them) will not perceive the information or misinterpret it because of some prejudice. Sprague et al. (2008) point out that it is important to consider â€Å"specific speech situation†, i.e. the time of the meeting (p.100). The speaker should take into account whether the people had other meetings or this will be the first meeting they have, whether the audience is tired of listening or can easily perceive the information. Thus, the speaker can shape the communication and decide what style of speaking to choose (faster or slower) or whether to add some anecdotal stories which can let the audience get prepared for more important sets of information or not. The characteristic features which should be also considered may include many other points depending on each particular case. As has been stated above taking into account characteristics of the audience will enable the speaker to choose the right communication channels and use them more effectively. Sellnow (2004) defines communication channels as â€Å"the pathways through which messages are communicated† between the speaker and the audience and points out two major communication channels, auditory and visual (p.21). Both channels should be exploited during the in-person meeting since this will enable the speaker to communicate his/her information more effectively. For instance, the auditory channel is what the audience hears (Sellnow, 2004). Thus, the speaker should carefully choose words to make sure that his/her message has reached the audience properly. It is necessary to point out that intonation and the way of speaking is also important, so the speaker should speak loudly and stress important points with the help of intonation, stress, etc. Visual channels are also very important since they enhance the information received from the auditory channels. The visual channels include not only visu als like diagrams, charts, pictures and illustrations. They also include facial expressions, gestures, eye contact and even appearance (Sellnow, 2004). Thus, speaker’s gestures can be descriptive and explanatory, so the speaker can support the auditory channels and can be sure that communication is effective since the audience receives the messages. At this point

Portfolio (2000 words) Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Portfolio (2000 words) - Essay Example It was evident that as I progressed in my placement, I came to know specific details about portfolios as it progressed, but it was mainly a tool for self-directed learning. An important underpinning concept within the portfolio use is its firm entrenchment in learning from nursing practice experience usually in a self-directed manner. This means I had responsibility for completing the portfolio, although there was a relative freedom with task completion, often with minimal direction and guidelines. This portfolio has been designed to improve self-development and assessment as to whether I had been able to develop of the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Council (ANMC) competencies. This portfolio has been based on ANMC competency standard seven (Australian Nursing and Midwifery Council 2006), which speaks about nurses competency for provision of comprehensive, safe, and effective evidence-based care to achieve health outcomes for individuals or groups in an identified population. This document was prepared that I’m a capability on assessing and conducting the comprehensive nursing care effectively in my own studies. A child health assessment report following by the health intervention plan This document was prepared as an assessable component on my studies. It is emphasis on my knowledge of acute action plan. The tutor’s mark sheet and comment are included to further substantiate my claims for competency. The appendix 1 shows the item of evidence. This contains the feedback from my facilitator. My facilitator had been instrumental in development of my nursing skills and professional development which were important in my competency development. She had commented that I demonstrated willingness to participate in the team environment. As per her evaluation, my clinical skills had improved over time, and I could interact with the patients in a friendly and empathic manner.

Event Tracing for LDAP Applications Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Event Tracing for LDAP Applications - Essay Example The supported way of eccessing such information is the Idapclient list. By means of the Idaplist command is the best method to show that a client is communicating with the LDAP server. The simplest form, Idaplist will without arguments dump every container on the server. So long as these containers exist, then this will work. On condition that step 1 works, one may attempt Idaplist password username, or even Idaplist hosts hostname, however, in a case where they consist of immense data then one has to pick a service that is lesser populated, or even pipe them to head or more (IBM, 2012). Solaris operating environment LDAP client back end does return hostnames that are fully qualified for host lookups, for instance hostnames that have been returned by getipnodebyname(3N) as well as gethoatbyname (3N). in a case where the stored name happens to be qualified and containing one dot, the name will be returned by the client as is. For instance, if hostB.eng is the stored name, hostA.domainname is the return name. In a case where the name stored within the LDAP directory happens to be unqualified (contains no dot) the client back end then appends the domain part to the name. For instance, if hostA is the stored name, hostA.domainname is the return name. In a case where the name of the DNS domain is not similar to the LDAP domain name, the service of LDAP naming cannot be used in serving host names except where host names get to be stored fully qualified (ORACLE, 2011). LDAP clients make use ofpam(3) modules for authentication of users during logins. Where using standard UNIXTM PAM Module, password gets to be read from the server as well as checked on client side. The following are some of the reasons why this may fail: LDAP database does rely upon indexes for improvement of search performance. Performance degradation will occur where indexes are not configured properly. Common attributes sets are contained within documentation that are need to be

Professional Letter of Recommendation for MBA Admission Essay

Professional Letter of Recommendation for MBA Admission - Essay Example He worked as a planning intern with HoK Advance Strategies in 2008 where he participated in planning and managing major projects. The applicant manifested unique management, creativity, learning, training, and leadership skills compared to other RIYAD CAPITAL analysts of the same age and education. Indeed, he was the first to get a promotion among his peers where he became their manager, leader, and trainer soon after joining RIYAD CAPITAL. He was their mentor. His contribution was fundamental in our institution where we advised and closed on two IPOs. The applicant was phenomenon in coordinating schedule for IPO road show on behalf of clients and leveraging social capital with investors. This experience prepares the applicant for the MBA program. His long-term plan of developing his business and diversifying his business activities depicts his entrepreneurial mind. The applicant manifests immense strength in team building, conflict management, and leadership where he represented Saudi in the Mosaic International Leadership Development Summit. He also volunteered in community leadership where he assisted disabled students. The applicant is motivated to address his weaknesses in public presentation and conducting research that will prepare him for MBA projects. The applicant is learning how to conduct and analyze researched information. With these skills, the applicant is likely to achieve a successful professional career in MBA. Having come from a poor family background, the applicant struggled to access high quality education where he relied on sponsors and part-time jobs to fund his education. Nevertheless, the applicant has achieved much and gained fundamental skills through utmost dedication to his endeavors. I believe this spirit will propel him to great heights in his professional career. I have immense personal and professional regard for the applicant and I believe his academic qualifications, professional experience, and skills are sufficient and

Dog Day Afternoon Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Dog Day Afternoon - Essay Example As the paper highlights he was certainly assisted by the rest of the cast such as John Cazale as the saddest bank robber in the world, Sal and the possibly in one of his most unforgettable performances, the portrayal of Sonny’s â€Å"other wife† Leon by Chris Sarandon. And the many others all added to the cavalcade of this consciousness raising experience. However, the nature of Pacino’s performance and the amount of empathy he was able to invoke from the audience was the primary catalyst for their almost subconscious acceptance of an alternate view of the traditional leading man in the cinema. From this study it is clear that Dog Day Afternoon was made and released in 1975-76 during a time when countercultures and counterrevolutionaries were still on a rise from the sixties. In fact, it was probably even more acceptable now to mainstream audience who by this point had been exposed to the cold war and Fidel Castro and Hippies as well as the social reforms of civil rights movement that occurred throughout the sixties and is still occurring. This expression of a new masculinity challenges the traditional American emphasis on the hard hitting hero with a heart of gold, so to speak. Here in this film ther are certainly notions of some sexual liberation from gender stereotyping.   In a sense, most art, film, literature, etc. have a tendency to push the envelope of the cultures mind and gradually expose their audiences to a new attitude and more expansive ideas of what human being are supposed to be and what they can and should be capable of. Dog day Afternoon gives us an alternate viewpoint, a somewhat more blurry line between the criminal and the hero, the leading man and the sensitive male, so that the audience sees how it is possible to cheer for someone who may not be the cowboy with the white hat and cetrtainly not the typical hero of a tale.

Philosophy Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 4

Philosophy - Assignment Example This is seen in the differences between the rationalism and empiricism: rationalism has it that the ideas and concepts are independent from the experience, and that the cognition is realized only by means of the mind, whereas empiricism states that the knowledge and practice shall be cognized by means of experience. (True Forms, 2013). 2) Eudaimonia is most commonly defined as welfare, happiness, or prosperity. Eudaimonists state that the happiness is the supreme good for the human being. According to their views, the basis of the human behavior and the criteria of morality are determined as the human’s strive for happiness and prosperity. The happiness includes internal aspects, such as virtue, and external ones – health, beauty and wealth. Eudaimonia is considered naturalistic because it is in human’s nature to be aimed at reaching the best. (Robinson, 1999). 3) The Aristotelian concept of the â€Å"golden mean† is the acceptable middle between the excessive and the insufficient. In terms of ethics this means a choice between the things that are good and bad and may seem too good or too bad. For example, the situation with the wars and armed conflicts in the modern world is illustrative in this respect. It would be possible to avoid them by means of choosing by either their sides a mean – the process of negotiations, and this is namely the mean because it would neither lead to blood-shooting nor to absence of the contact between the sides at all. It can also be referred to as sometimes avoiding of the difficulties and trying to choose the easiest way of the problems solving. Then it is believed that the golden mean is not the best means and it is necessary to be courage enough to follow not the easiest way. 4) Philosophical Cynics tend not to accept the conventional society. They motivate this by the fact that the usual concept of life presupposes possessing the useless and odd

I project 1 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words - 1

I project 1 - Essay Example Besides, iProject would allow me to gain practical knowledge in the field of technology marketing, develop understanding on importance of documentation and in turn generate a high quality report. With the advent of Smart Phone technology, a number of apps are being released on daily basis with a sole aim of gaining more business (Audely, 2011) and to provide customers with better after sales services in a way to facilitate them in gaining access to required information, saving time and ensure customer loyalty and customer satisfaction (Owen, 2010). iProject attempts to highlight the significance of the Smart Phone Applications in the developing the market strategy by illustrating the new creative application technology which is Radio-frequency Identification (RFID) in this website asmaalghafis.wix.com/asma. The project is aimed and planned for completion with minimum cost and resources. iProject has two main phases i.e., short term and medium term plan. For this purpose, project has been divided into two phases where phase 1 corresponds to short term career goals and phase 2 corresponds to medium term goals. Figure below shows the short term plan The main purpose of short term plan is to develop understanding of project management and planning, real world application of the knowledge and learning gained through formal courses that would help to comprehend the main essence of the topic of the assignment. I, Asma Ibrahim Al Ghafis would be managing the entire project and the website would be www.asmaalghafis.wix.com/asma. In this project, I would be assisted by Mr. Waqas Jeral, who has extensive knowledge and experience in marking as he has been working with a number of firms as a marketing consultant. He has extensive interest in techniques and method that circumference the online marketing strategy and building online, the personality identity. We

Financial Accountants in Modern Era Essay Example for Free

Financial Accountants in Modern Era Essay Professional accountant: A professional accountant is an educated and experienced accountant who is responsible to keep a check on the company’s money flow. Business accountancy is one of the most sought out occupation in the modern day era. He works as the company’s management to determine how well a company is functioning in terms of financial reporting. The government assesses the professional accountant’s reports to determine the tax owed by the company. The evaluation done by the professional accountant is of significant importance since investors and banks study them to determine if the company is worth investing or not. Accounting is a very diverse field and every person involved in it has a prescribed set of tasks. Some deal with financial reports such as balance sheets and income statements whereas others are more concerned with tax planning and compliance. With more practice, one is able to become an expert in the field and can therefore be of great value to the owner as well as the business. An experienced Professional accountant should understand his importance to the business and be able to recognize the limitations he has to work with. He has to make things work his way in order to make the right decisions every now and then. It’s not the many easy decisions that he has to take but rather the few difficult ones that make him an expert in the field. They need to plan across-the-board and execute it without fail. Exceptional professional accountants have a network of accounting contemporaries, who help them solve the situations outside their areas of expertise. Professional accountants with exceptional skills in the field of accounting pick up opportunities that are of some value to the client and acts as a valuable asset for the business as well. In short, the professional accountant is the backbone of the company and a valuable asset who helps keep things flowing in the right manner. Importance of professional accountants in the modern era: The modern day world of business is dominated by globalization, it has become extremely important for organizations to grow and extend their reach beyond national boundaries. As competition is increasing and geographical limitations reducing, it is becoming more imperative for organizations to keep a stringent check on the finances being used and earned. Therefore as a result, the importance of Professional accountants is increasing proportionately. The primary job of a professional accountant is to prepare the financial reports for the organization, analyze them and present the true picture to the people who are the chief decision makers in the company. Considering the gravity of work involved, it is imperative that the professional accountant be someone who is experienced, versatile, of high integrity and competent enough to handle any situation that might arise related to the financial structure of the company. The evaluation done by professional accountants is then used as a basis by banks and the investors to determine whether the company is a profitable proposition or not. A professional accountant is someone who should be able to comprehend each and every situation in the best possible manner and be able to present a clear picture to the management for better decision making. He is able to understand all the limitations as well as the strengths of the company and can therefore advice the management to make profitable decisions. His purpose is not to make money for himself but to work mutually for the betterment of the company and himself. Reference http://www.accountant-search.com/business-accountants.html

The Strategic Planning For Jet Airways

The Strategic Planning For Jet Airways The purpose of this paper is to evaluate a successful and well-organized strategic planning for airline industry providing Jet Airways strategic plan. Jet Airways is the Indias market leader in airline industries, however has faced increasing competition over the last decade resulting attrition in their market share. The report begins by analysing the current internal and external environment of Jet Airways. Through strategic evaluation its recommended that Jet airways focus on their fundamental service delivery to restore their competitive advantage within the industry. This will require putting into practice a combination of two strategies; a people processes strategy and a strategy focused on technological advancement. The people processes strategy was derived from a number of industry sources outlining Jet Airways decline in customer satisfaction. The technological advancement strategy coincides with the renewal of Jet Airways aircraft fleet and will further improve the overall customer experience. INDEX Objectives: The main objective of this paper is to develop the internal and external environmental analysis and strategic planning with risk management and business ethics. Specific objectives are following, Evaluate the current strategic position of Jet Airways. Examine the strategic Planning Models for Jet Airways. Examine Jet Airways internal and external environment. (1.0) Overview of Jet Airways: Jet Airways is an airline based in Mumbai, India. It is Indias third largest airline after Air India and Kingfisher Airlines. It operates over 400 daily flights to 64 destinations worldwide. Its primary base is Mumbais Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport with secondary hubs at Bangalore, Brussels, Chennai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Kolkata and Pune as focus cities. In July 2008, Which? magazine ranked Jet Airways as the worlds best long- haul airline after Singapore Airlines. In a poll conducted by SmartTravelAsia.com in September 2008, it was voted as the worlds seventh best airline overall. It has also won an award for the quality of its catering. In February 2009, Jet Airways had 846,000 passengers, making it the second largest airline in India behind Kingfisher Airlines. Jet Airways also operates two low-cost airlines, namely Jet Lite (formerly Air Sahara) and Jet Airways Connect. (1.1.1) Corporate Structure: Mr. Naresh Goyal Chairman Mr. Ali Ghandour Director Mr. Nikos Kardassis Chief Executive Officer Mr. Saroj K. Datta Executive Director Mr. Abdulrahman Albusaidy Group Executive Officer Mr. Sudheer Raghavan Chief Commercial Officer Capt. Hameed Ali Chief Operating Officer Mrs. Anita Goyal | Executive Vice President Network Planning Revenue Management Mr. Raja Segran | Sr. Vice President Mr. P. K. Sinha | Regional Vice President Mr. Gaurang Shetty | Sr. Vice President Customer Services Alliances Capt. Hassan Al-Mousawi | Sr. Vice President-Operations On Time Performance Mr. Abdulkhaliq Saeed | Sr. Vice President Engineering Maintenance Mr. Mahalingam Shivkumar | Sr. Vice President, Finance Mr. Rajesh Sharma | Vice President Internal Audit Mr. K. G. Vishwanath | Vice President Commercial Strategy and Investor Relations Dato K. Jeyakanthan | Sr. Vice President Engineering Services Mr. Jay Shelat | Vice President Cargo Mr. Raj Sivakumar | Vice President Network Planning, Revenue Management Distribution Dr. Samar B. Srivastava | Vice President Human Resources Mr. Ashok Barimar | General Counsel Vice President Legal Ms. Ragini Chopra | Vice President Corporate Communication and Public Relations Ms. Monica Chopra | Company Secretary Sr. General Manager Legal (2.0) Environmental Analysis: For success within the airline industry, an awareness of the external environment is essential. This section aims to highlight the position of the industry, in particular looking at competitors and assessing Jet airways capability to meet current and future challenges. (2.1) PESTEL Analysis Of Jet Airways: Political Issue License issue for international operation. Infrastructural constraint. ATF price policy. Open sky policy. FDI Limits: 100% Greenfield airport 74% existing airports. 100% through special permission. 49% for airlines. Economic Effects The income level is rising. Contribution to the Indian economy. There is a rise in the cost of fuel. Investment in the sector of aviation. The growth of the middle income group family affects the aviation sector. Reduced fare but yet not enough. Social Effects Developing of the cities to better services and airports. Employment opportunities. Safety regulations. The status symbol attached to a plane travel. Technological Effects Modernization of aircrafts. The growth of e-commerce and e-ticketing. Satellite based navigation system. Modernisation and privatisation of the airports. Modern technology like CAT3 and ILS. Environmental Sector There is an increase in the global warming. The sudden change and the unexpected behaviour of the climate and to depend on the atmosphere. Shortage of the infrastructural capacity. There is a tourism saturation. Legal Factors. FDI limits. Bilateral treaties. Airlines acquisitions and the leasing cost. (2.2) SWOT Analysis Of Jet Airways: Figure 2.2 shows SWOT Analysis: S Market driver. Experience exceeding 14 year. Only private airline with international operation . They have a strong brand value and their reputation is very high in the mind of the customers. The service quality is good. Largest fleet size. There is a continuous innovation in their business. W Loosing domestic market share . Old fleet with average age around 4.79 years. Scope for improvement in in-flight service. High ticket pricing. Facing a tough competition from the competitors. O Untapped air cargo market . Scope in international service and tourism. The non penetrated domestic market. T Strong competitors. Fuel price hike. Overseas market competition. Infrastructure issues. Tourism saturation. Economic slowdown. Promotion and sponsorship declining. (3.0) Strategic Planning Model: (3.1) Porters Five Forces Model Of Jet Airways: (1) The threat of the entry of new competitors: The threat of the new entrants is very high for Jet Airways, because right now there are so many new airline company that has come with new strategies and services. The more profitable the industry is the more attractive it will be to new competitors. And as we know that Jet Airways is a very well known airline company of India since many years and it has a brand image and has a good reputation on the customers mind but then also Jet Airways has to give the best service quality to the customers to remain the market leader in the business. (2) The intensity of the competitive rivalry: The intensity of the competitive rivalry is high for Jet Airways. Jet Airways has many competitive rivals like Kingfisher Airlines, British Airways, Air India, Virgin Atlantic, etc. Jet Airways has both long haul flights and short haul flights. They are losing the domestic share market so in this competitive industry they have to bring some innovation in their business. Their strategy is very powerful because they are concentrating more in the service quality. Their aircrafts are modernised and they have the modernised technology like CAT3 and ILS. (3) The threat of substitute products or services: The threat of substitute for Jet Airways is low. There are few substitutes for Jet Airways: For short haul flights they have: Jet Connect and Jet Lite. For long haul flights they have: No notable substitute. (4) The bargaining power of customers (buyers): The bargaining power of buyer is medium. Jet Airways has the option to switch the suppliers and according to that the customers of Jet Airways also has the option to switch. (5) The bargaining power of suppliers: The bargaining power of supplier is high. The supplier can switch to any other option at any time. (4.0) Managing Risk: Every business faces risks that could present threats to its success. Risk is defined as the probability of an event and its consequences. Risk management is the practice of using processes, methods and tools for managing these risks. Risk management focuses on identifying what could go wrong, evaluating which risks should be dealt with and implementing strategies to deal with those risks. Businesses that have identified the risks will be better prepared and have a more cost-effective way of dealing with them. The types of risk your business faces strategic, for example a competitor coming on to the market. compliance, for example responding to the introduction of new health and safety legislation. financial, for example non-payment by a customer or increased interest charges on a business loan. operational, for example the breakdown or theft of key equipment. (4.1) Managing Risk Of Jet Airways: Jet Airways falls in the strategic risk and the operational risk. Strategic and Operational Risk: Overview of cyber-security and best practices in fraud prevention. Understanding key fundamentals of PCI Data Security Standards and what airlines need to do to align with the necessary requirements. Risk management in Jet Airways: Fraud prevention strategies and processes. Strategies in IVR risk control. The way forward in risk management. (5.0) Strategy and Ethics of JET AIRWAYS: Strategy of Jet Airways: The main strategy of Jet Airways is to maintain service quality. Jet Airways (India) Ltd. has earned the distinction of receiving the IATA Operational Safety Audit (IOSA) Registration. The airline has successfully completed the Operational Safety Audit and has entered into the IOSA Registry. One of the strategies that Jet Airways is following: Jet Airways strategy: removing a row to gain passenger space Mumbai: After having removed a row of seats from some of its planes to increase overall leg room for passengers, Jet Airways (India) Ltd is using an innovative, three-dimensional billboard campaign to sell the concept. Developed by Mudra Groups outdoor unit Primesite, the Mumbai billboards have images of two chairs sitting close to each other, and then one drifting on railings to reveal the message: Weve removed a row to give you more space. The row of seats has been done away with in Jets 737-800s series planes. Removal of rows to create space for cramped passengers isnt a new idea as many airlines, especially in the US, have used similar tactics and messages to differentiate their planes from rivals. Several other companies, such as auto makers (with sections of cars) and even coffee companies (Bru used chairs and tables) have used three-dimensional billboards to stand out. Says Gaurang Shetty, vice- president, marketing, Jet Airways: We wanted to create an impact and effectively communicate that we have removed a row of seats from our domestic flights, thereby giving more space on our domestic flights. The outdoor innovation has only been done in Mumbai considering the restrictions on the same in other metros. We would be communicating through hoardings in Delhi, Chennai, Kolkata and Bangalore. Sanjeev Hajela, president, Primesite, says the campaign has a budget of Rs55-60 lakh. Jet is a large user of outdoor media and is believed to spend as much as Rs10-Rs12 crore a year, some 20% of the airlines marketing spend. Jet Airways was one of the early entrants in the aviation business, as also the first private airline to fly to overseas destinations and had a relatively simple creative message: Jet Flies to 44 Domestic and 8 International Destinations. Notes Jagdeep Kapoor, managing director of Samsika Marketing Consultants Pvt. Ltd: Earlier, the positioning of the Jet brand was such that it reflected aspirational value. It was an aspired brand while all the rest were tired and perspired brands. Today its different. They have found a competitor in their own league in form of Kingfisher. There is a switch taking place, with some customers shifting loyalties to Kingfisher. He classifies Jets growth in terms of three Ss: Sustenance, Service and the need to (Speed Up). In spite of not being the first entrant in the aviation space, the Jet brand grew steadily, sustained and survived. Later on, Jet grew to be the best premium brand in the whole country by highlighting the service aspect. In service, they were unparalleled and premium. Today, its different and Jet needs to speed up. They need to aggressively build themselves as a brand, and advertise themselves like a consumer brand if they need to beat Kingfisher. 2) Ethics of Jet Airways: The Code of Business Conduct and Ethics (Code) has been adopted by Jet Airways (India) Limited to comply with applicable law and the rules and regulations of the Stock Exchanges on which the securities of the Company are listed. (6.0) Strategic and Operational Conflict: Strategic Planning: Long term. Affect widely. Generic. Org. People and other org. People. Operational Planning: Short term. Narrow/limited scope. Detailed. Within orgs. People. Strategic v Operational Conflict: Jet Airways has some strategic v operational conflict and they are: Jet Airways (India) Ltd.s three- day conflict with its pilots is costing the nations second- largest airline passengers and may hamper plans to raise $400 million to buy new planes. The last thing investors want to see when the airlines trying to raise funds is a crisis like this, Kapil Kaul, chief executive officer of the Indian unit of Centre for Asia Pacific Aviation, an industry adviser said yesterday. This is a wildfire and they need to put out as soon as possible. Alternate Arrangements: Jet Airways is endeavouring to make alternate arrangements on other airlines wherever possible and our airport teams will assist its guests to the fullest extent, Jet Air said. (7.0) Recommendations: As a result, we can say that Jet Airways is following different types of environmental analysis and strategic planning models to run their organization and their main strategy is to give service quality to the customer. So from this, we have conclude that Jet Airways is focusing on the services which they are giving to the customers to gain their loyalty and trust and to become the worlds no.1 airline industry. Due to lack of primary research we cant access more information about the company. References: Online links: http://www.jetairways.com/EN/GB/AboutUs/QualityCertification.aspx, contains the strategy of Jet Airways. http://www.jetairways.com/EN/KE/AboutUs/CodeOfConduct.aspx, contains The Code of Conduct. http://www.scribd.com/doc/8718529/Jet-Airways, it contains SWOT analysis and PEST analysis of Jet Airways. http://www.livemint.com/2007/11/25233107/Jet-Airways-strategy-removing.html

Comparative Drug Review Gastrointestinal Therapies Tagamet And Nexium Biology Essay

Comparative Drug Review Gastrointestinal Therapies Tagamet And Nexium Biology Essay Tagamet and Nexium have been two of the many common drugs these days, both of which are widely used in the medical treatment of major gastric acid-related disorders like peptic ulcer disease (PUD) and gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD), with their respective active ingredient being cimetidine and esomerprazole. In view of their similar uses in gastrointestinal therapies, this review addresses various major characteristics possessed by the two drugs and in an attempt to make a vivid comparison between them in accordance to their active ingredients, for providing information optimizing the selection of gastric acid-related drugs at different clinical conditions. Mechanism Both cimetidine and esomeprazole serve to cure gastrointestinal disorders by reducing the secretion of gastric acid, however, with different drug targets to be acted on and mechanisms to bring about their actions. Cimetidine, being a histamine H2 receptor competitive antagonist (H2RA), reversibly binds to the histamine H2 receptor on the acid-secreting parietal cell of the stomach and lead to the production of second messenger cAMP which can ultimately trigger the H+/K+-ATPase to pump more acid out of the cell. Thus, the binding of histamine released by Enterochromaffin-like (ECL) cells in the stomach to the receptors, which in turn stimulates gastric acid secretion, is inhibited. At the same time, with the blockage of the histamine H2 receptors by cimetidine, the effect of both gastrin- and acetylcholine-stimulated acid secretion would be reduced. All these result in the lowering of acidity in the stomach. Esomeprazole, being a proton pump inhibitor (PPI), acts by an entirely different mechanism. Esomerprazole is a weak-base prodrug and it accumulates in the unique, highly acidic canalicular space of the active parietal cell, where the pH is less than 2.0. At this pH, it is converted to the active form of the drug, which then covalently binds to one or more cysteines that are accessed from the luminal surface of the gastric proton pump in gastric parietal cells, the H+/K+ ATPase enzyme, the target of which esomeprazole acts on. As a result, this irreversibly inhibits the H+/K+ ATPase enzyme, whose activity is involved in the final step of gastric acid secretion Therapeutic Effectiveness Owing to their different mechanisms of action, the gastric acid-suppressive effect produced by them varies, thus leading to variation in their effectiveness for treating related diseases. In general, PPIs (e.g. esomerprazole) are more potent than H2RAs (e.g. cimetidine) because the former inhibits the H+/K+ ATPase enzyme involved in the final step of acid secretion[1], as the latter only inhibits one of the pathways involved in acid secretion. The superior acid-suppressive effect of PPI over an H2RA has been verified by comparative studies. [2-5] Because of the different mechanism of these two drugs, esomeprazole has a longer duration than cimetidine. After converted to the active form, Esomeprazole can bind reversibly to the H+/K+-ATPase. As a result, esomeprazole will not be easily enzymatically metabolized and the major factor that leading to loss of effect of esomeprazole is largely dependent on the production of new H+/K+-ATPase. This is reason why esomeprazole has a rather long duration of effect on inhibition of acid secretion. In terms of therapeutic outcomes, it has been shown that higher efficacy is found in PPI treatments than in H2RA treatments for a wide range of diseases such as peptic ulcer disease, gastroesophageal reflux disease, GI damage caused by non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. [6 V13], as revealed by many studies. One of these aimed to investigate oesophagitis in which a meta-analysis of 43 therapeutic trials was conducted in patients with moderate or severe oesophagitis. The proportion of patients successfully treated was almost doubled with PPIs, and the rapidity of healing and symptom relief were about twice that with H2RAs. [14] Thus, It had confirmed the advantage of PPIs over H2RAs. [15] To sum up, up to the present stage, esomerprazole seems to be more effective and a more preferable choice than cimetidine for the treatment of most gastric acid-related diseases. Safety In fact, both cimetidine and esomeprazole are quite safe and they rarely have adverse effects that may be lethal. In a meta-analysis of 24 double-blind placebo-controlled studies, it shows negligible difference of incidence of side effects between cimetidine and placebo. The most commonly reported adverse effects are diarrhea, other gastrointestinal disturbances, dizziness, tiredness, rashes and headache. Furthermore, most adverse effects of cimetidine are dose-related and as the length of treatment increases, the risk is decreased which means Cimetidine is rather secure for patients who require long-term treatment. Also, Cimetidine has significant anti-androgen effects in patient receiving high dose and this puts some male patients in fear. Adverse effects of Esomeprazole are infrequent as Cimetidine, but some of its common side effects like headache, diarrhea and skin rashes can be severe and may need to resolve on drug discontinuation. Moreover, recognized increases in the prevalence of pneumonia and Campylobacter enteritis as well as a doubling of the risk of infection with Clostridium difficile should not be overlooked due to the role of esomeprazole as a first-line drug. What should emphasize is that patients still need health care professionals careful indication as if both drugs are safe. Since esomeprazole is one of the most frequently prescribed medicine and 63% , 33% and 67% of hospital inpatients in Austria, Ireland and the United Kingdom did not meet the criteria for taking esomeprazole or other proton pump inhibitors. As a result, it is pharmacoeconomically unfavorable and improved clinical pharmaceutical care can be achieved by detailed indication by the cooperation of pharmacist and health care professionals. What is more, these two drugs are placed in the same Pregnancy Category by the US FDA and they are not advised for the pregnant women. Because of their inhibition of parietal cells, secretion of intrinsic factor is reduced. As a result, both drugs can lead to mal-absorption of Vitamin B12 which is important for maturation of Erythrocytes and DNA synthesis and thus Vitamin B12 therapy may be needed. Drug interactions They interact with a wide variety of drugs except that they both reduce absorption of acid-dependent drugs due to their effect of lowering of the stomach pH, but in fact only drugs with a narrow therapeutic index have clinical significance. The majority of interactions is due to binding of cimetidine to cytochrome P450 isoenzymes in the liver with subsequent inhibition of microsomal oxidative metabolism and increased bioavailability or plasma concentrations of drugs metabolised by these enzymes. These drugs are anticoagulants, phenytoin, theophylline, benzodiazepines, betal-blockers, lidocaine, Procainamide, ketoconazole and itraconazole. Similarly, Esomeprazole interferes with the elimination of drugs metabolized by isoenzyme CYP2C19 and to a smaller extent by CYP3A4. Therefore, it increases the plasma level of clarithromycin, amoxicillin, diazepam, phenytoin, and warfarin. In addition, esomeprazole has a potential interaction with atazanavir which is a HIV-Protease Inhibitor to treat HIV by substantially reducing the concentration of atazanavir. Conclusion Summarizing all the above mentioned features, Nexium is seemingly a better drug in terms of its potency, therapeutic effects as well as its range of application in clinical conditions, comparing to Tagamet. However, its benefits and drawbacks may be revealed in the future by research works, which should be always aware of.

The Theme of Dehumanization in Breakfast of Champions Essay -- Breakfa

The Theme of Dehumanization in Breakfast of Champions "Dear Sir, poor sir, brave sir: You are an experiment by the Creator of the Universe." (Vonnegut 259) Imagine if this was addressed to you. What an awful feeling of betrayal and loneliness you would no doubt get. But what if next you heard this? "You are the only creature in the entire Universe who has free will. You are the only one who has to figure out what to do next-and why. Everybody else is a robot, a machine." (Vonnegut 259) Surely you would feel like your entire existence was a big joke, one at your expense. You would feel desensitized, remote, and detached from all human feeling. You would be a poor victim, someone taken hold of by the cold grasp of dehumanization. The American Heritage Dictionary defines dehumanize as "To deprive of human qualities or attributes" or "To render mechanical and routine". This certainly does a grand job at describing the callous, inhuman, and cold feeling you get when reading the novel Breakfast of Champions. In his book Breakfast of Champions , Kurt Vonnegut Jr. uses bold motifs, complex characterization, a plot of mundanity and shallowness, elementary diction, and satirical style to emphasize his main theme of dehumanization. In 1922, Kurt Vonnegut Jr. was born in Indianapolis, Indiana to Edith Vonnegut and Kurt Vonnegut Sr. At the age of 18 he graduated from Shortridge High School and pursued a degree in chemistry at Cornell University. (Bonner, par. 1) However, he left college in 1943 to serve his country in World War II. Upon return, Vonnegut continued his studies at the University of Chicago in the field of anthropology. (Encarta, par. 4) In 1950 He left his job and started writing full-time. Vonnegut's other works include ... ...his main theme of dehumanization. He does this using bold motifs, complex characterization, a plot of mundanity and shallowness, elementary diction, and satirical style. He shocks and confuses us with his style of writing, leaving us floundering with questions. Through all this he makes the human race seem empty and alone. But he is right in doing so, because we in fact are. 1 n : an activity that diverts or amuses or stimulates 2 adj. : placed side by side often for comparison; "juxtaposed pictures" Bibliography: Vit, Marek. Home Page. http://www.geocities.com/Hollywood/4953/champions.html Bonner, Stephanie E. Home Page. http://www.geocities.com/Hollywood/4953/alter_ego.html Anonymous. Encarta. http://encarta.msn.com/encnet/refpages/RefArticle.aspx?refid=76157250 Vonnegut, Kurt. Breakfast of Champions. New York, New York: Dell Publishing. 1973.

Elements of Romanticism in Stokers Dracula Essay -- essays research pa

During the Romantic Era, Bram Stoker created a timeless monster in his novel, Dracula. Stoker uses a series of letters and journal entries to tell the story form a first person point of view. The Count, for whom the book is named, seems to be invincible to mere man. Stoker uses his character of Dracula to reflect the elements of romanticism through his supernatural powers, a fascination with youth and innocence, and imagery. Dracula seems to possess unexplainable supernatural powers. When Jonathan Harker is traveling to castle Dracula, he is unaware that the driver of his coach is the Count himself. During the nocturnal journey, the coach is circled by wolves, not knowing what to do Jonathan calls for the coachman and in return â€Å"heard his [Dracula’s] voice raised in a tone of imperious command, and looking towards the sound saw him stand in the roadway. As he swept his long arm, as though brushing aside some impalpable obstacle, the wolves fell back and back further still† (23). This unnatural power over the wolves is Stoker’s first way of showing Dracula’s power over nature. Harker also describes in his journal that one evening â€Å"I saw the whole man slowly emerge from the window and begin to crawl down the castle wall over that dreadful abyss, face down with his cloak spreading out around him like great wings†¦ I saw the fingers and toes grasp the corners of th e stones†¦ and inequality move downwards with considerable speed, just as a lizard moves along a wall† (43). This tr...

Killer Angels The Human Factor Essay examples -- essays research paper

Killer Angels Paper The Human Factor in the American Civil War   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Michael Shaara’s fictional novel, The Killer Angels, is based on the Battle of Gettysburg in the American Civil War. The novel allows the reader to recognize the heart and courage of the more than two million men that fought in the war. Shaara focuses the reader to better understand the reason why these men fight and the meaning of the war. Ultimately, the reader observes that the war is fought on an individual level as much as a governmental level. These men are there to fight for what they believe is truly right. The Confederates fought for their rights to hold slaves, their freedom tyranny of the Federal Government, and their independence from the Union. The Federal soldiers fought for the Preservation of the Union, the freedom of black men, and the Constitution’s integrity. In this is book the reader is able to perceive the human element of battle that creates a very unpredictable outcome. Factors of humanity, such as friendships, sense of characte r, conflicts and brotherhood, play an important part in making the war. The friendship between Confederate General Lewis Armistead and Union General Winfield Scott Hancock has an effect on their fighting. Garnett’s sense of honor effects his psychological outlook on the battle and how he is to fight. The Chamberlains are two brothers in the Twentieth Maine of the Union Army. Both men are constantly looking...

My Psychosocial Stage of Development Essay

My Psychosocial Stage of Development S. Pulliam April, 2011 First I would like to define psychosocial development; this is the development of the personality or the acquisition of social attitude and skill from infancy through maturity. Based on the charting from Erickson’s Psychosocial Stages of Development, I fall into two separate categories based on my age. From the beliefs of Erickson, he believed that the achievements and failures of earlier stages influence later stages, whereas later stages modify and transform earlier ones (Erickson, 1980). The first is Young Adulthood and the second is Middle Adulthood. In the two stages from the chart the information is based on (Young adulthood) Intimacy v/s Isolation and the second one (Middle Adulthood) is based on Generativity v/s Stagnation Work and Parenthood Adults. Although there are two separate stages in the psychosocial stages that I fall under, I feel that I am at the midpoint for each and I have decided to consider both aspects in doing my psychosocial stages of development. To explain how the two stages correlate to my life, I decided in the last year to settle down and get married this is based on my young adulthood information from Erickson’s chart. The reason there is a correlation to my life based on Erickson’s chart under middle adulthood id because my life had children prior to the marriage but I am taking a more active role in being involved with activities and school when it comes to my children. In looking at my current psychosocial stage of development influence on my behavior and relationship, I find that I am a calm, and not hard to get along with even under pressure situations that has occurred with us based on my jealous tendencies and insecure ways because of previous relationship and not being with the father of my children. The influence that I see in young adulthood over my relationship is that there is a need for intimacy but not a major desire to have it on a regular basis. The isolation comes from not being so open and friendly to other males in my life or surrounding because of my relationship with my husband. I have male friends that I am social with but I do not allow the intimacy line to be crossed because of my relationship with my husband. The influence that I see in middle adulthood is the need to have a nurturing relationship with my children and creating a positive change to benefit my children lives. In looking at this I made changes in the way I approached my children and how I would not shelter them from the truth when they would ask me questions but give them true answer to their question. As small children I did not feel the need to give much explanation to my children’s questions but now I try to explain everything to them without being untruthful to them or give them false ideas about what is going on around them. To explain the positive and negative outcomes to psychosocial stages of development, I would have to say that there are many positive and negative but the few that stand out to me the most are. First negative outcome, getting over insecurities I had about the intimacy relationship that I chose to take on after breaking off a 10 year relationship with my children’s father. The second negative outcome was getting over the trust issues I had before going into the current marriage that I am in right now. The third negative outcome was getting pass the change of personality and ways I had to endure going into the marriage and getting use to a new personality and making the changes on both parts to make our marriage work to the best of our ability. Based on this information I feel that the positive outcomes to the psychosocial stages of Erickson were in a good way and I can see the difference in my life and marriage. First positive outcome was that I am able to trust again within my relationship with my husband. The second positive outcome was that I made a strong bond with my children and I have not only been a mother to my children but I am the friend that my children confide in when they have feeling they want to express. The third positive outcome I see is that I am calm and stress free with the way I deal with problem within my relationship and I am able to compromise with my spouse when we do not agree on things. In evaluating how other developmental issues have influenced my personality, I would have to say that during my early childhood life I dealt with a few attachment issues with my mother. I feel that during this stage I did not bond with my mother like most children tend to do when the mother is present because she was pre-occupied with her career as a teacher and coaching. So during this age I was in close relationship with my father and I never felt the true connection with myself and my mother like so many girls or women tend to have with a mother. Most of my time I spent with my father and aunts when I was in my early childhood age so I did not really know that much about my mother other than she coached and taught physical education. I admired what she did so I took on the quest of becoming a physical education teacher as well. In School age time I had to bare a lot of pressure in participating in sports and in my school work because the expectation was so high on me to achieve my education and athletic abilities because of what my mother represented in our community. At the same time I was pressured by other students because they felt that the only reason I made the team was because of my mother not because of my own ability. Once I graduated my goals with education were so different. I felt more of the need to help others in crisis situation so I went back to school to get my degree in mental health and social work and that is still my drive today. So from this experience I feel that I have a very strong personality in spite of the way so many tried to bring me down and I am a true fighter for what I believe in deep within my heart. My personality from what I can see is a driving force of who I am and I refuse to be compared to my mother in my quest to achieve greater feats in my life and the way I live my life. It is okay to be compared to her but I know that I could never be my mother or even like her because my drive and ambition is so different from the way she handles things. References http://www. support4change. com/stages/cycles/Erikson. html Erikson E. , 1980. Identity and the Life Cycle. Norton, New York http://currentnursing. com/nursing_theory/theory_of_psychosocial_development. html

Cream Seperation

Separation of cream from full cream milk using the Disc- Bowl Centrifuge. Introduction:- Cream is usually a dairy product containing high fat percent, which can be seen floating on the top before the homogenization process. When the milk is unhomogenized, overtime, the fat lighter in weight rises to the top. The process in the industries is completely different as they use centrifuges, normally called as separators to accelerate the creaming process. Cost of cream totally depends upon its fat content.Cream usually produced by the livestock grazing process on natural pastures normally contains some amount of natural carotenoid pigments acquired from plant materials they consume; as a result of which the cream appears a bit yellowish in colour. Cream derived from the milk of livestock fed indoors is usually white in colour as they normally are grain based pellets. There is a formula for determining the rate of sedimentation, widely known as Stokes’ law. It states that a particle moving through viscous liquid attains a constant velocity or sedimentation rate. Equation for Stokes’ law Vg = d2 (Pp- P1)/ 18  µ ?G Where:- Vg = Sedimentation Velocity d2 = particle Diameter Pp = Particle density P1 = Liquid density G = gravitational acceleration  µ = viscosity of liquid Aims:- 1. To separate cream from full cream milk at two speed settings of the disc bowl centrifuge. 2. To evaluate sensory properties of the cream and skimmed milk. 3. To determine the throughput of the centrifuge. Materials and Equipments:- Disc-bowl centrifuge 1 Litre and 400 ml beakers Litre measuring cylinder Sample cups –transparent 2 Litres full cream milk Large Plastic bowls Pans Stopwatch Digital Thermometer Method:- 1.Two batches of 1 litre of full cream milk was warmed at 37 degree C. 2. 1 litre beaker was placed beneath the lower, heavy phase, spout of the centrifuge. This usually was the point from where the skim milk exits. Right after then the 400 ml beaker was plac ed beneath the upper, light phase, spout of the centrifuge which usually was the exit point for the cream. 3. Before carrying out the next step, it was ensured that the tap of the milk receiving reservoir at the top of the centrifuge was in a closed position ie. Pointing N to S 4. Warmed milk weighing 1 litre was then inserted into the reservoir. . The motor was switched on as soon as milk was inserted and was set on the lowest speed setting by adjusting the speed setting knob. 6. As the motor speed was steady, the tap of the reservoir containing milk was then released and the stopwatch was started. 7. Portions at light and heavy liquid phases were then collected from the relevant spouts, cream and skimmed milk respectively. 8. The stopwatch was switched off as soon as the milk reservoir was empty and the time taken was noted. 9. The motor of the centrifuge was allowed to run till the flow of skimmed milk and cream was ceased. 10.The portions of skimmed milk and cream received throu gh their relative phases were then measured and then the yield was calculated. 11. The throughput of the material was then determined in litres per hour at its respective speed setting. 12. The stages 2 to 12 were repeated using second batch of warmed milk, with the only difference being the time setting. The whole process was carried out by operating the motor on the highest speed setting. 13. The above process was followed by placing the large bowl underneath the spouts and by flushing the centrifuge using cold water just to clear the washings in the centrifuge. 4. Right after the process the whole equipment was dismantled including the reservoirs spouts, collecting funnel etc. The parts were then washed using hot water with a little detergent. 15. The cream and skimmed milk from each speed setting (i. e. High speed setting and low speed setting) were then subjected to sensory properties evaluation. * * * * Result:- * * The following were the results obtained :- 1. The results for 0. 1 % skimmed milk at low speed setting were * Fat:- 00. 07% * * And the results for same product at high speed setting were * Fat:-00. 03% * 2.The results for 2 % semi skimmed milk at low speed setting were * Fat:- 1. 60 % * * The results for 2 % semi skimmed milk at high speed setting were * Fat:- 1. 64% * 3. The results for 4% Whole milk at low speed setting were * Fat:- 6. 56% * * The results for 4% Whole milk at High speed setting were * Fat:- 7. 25% * * * Discussion:- * 1. Principles of the operation of Disc-bowl Centrifuge. * Brennan (2006) states that the Disc bowl centrifuge works on the principle of particle density. Feed is introduced through the bottom of the bowl.As it comes with the contact of the centrifugal force, the dense phase moves downside while the lighter phase passes through the top spout. * 2. Different Categories of cream available to the consumer and their legal minimum fat contents? * Sheila (2006) mentioned in an article that categories of cream availa ble are * Single cream – 18 % minimum fat content * Double cream – 48% minimum fat content * Half cream – 12% minimum fat content * Whipping Cream – 35% minimum fat content * Creme fraiche – 30% minimum fat content * Soured cream – 18% minimum fat content * Clotted cream – 55% minimum fat content. 3. Categories of cream produced in the Practical? * Type of cream produced in the practical was single cream * 4. Purpose of Cream screw? * The thickness of the cream can be adjusted by the help of the cream screw. Cream screw helps to trap the cream and helps the cream to let out. * * 5. Why is the milk heated first? * De (1991) explained that, higher the temperature and degree during agitation the greater is the loss of skimmed milk and vice versa. When the milk is heated and agitated, the agitation process causes size reduction of bigger fat globules into smaller ones.As a result of which they escape the effect of centrifugal force, leadi ng to exclusion of fat loss in the skimmed milk. To reduce creaming. * * Conclusion:- * Cream was successfully separated from the milk using Disc bowl centrifuge. The cream was further tested for its sensory properties, and the sensory properties of the cream were found to be appealing. * * * * References:- * * J. G. Brennan (2006). â€Å"Food Processing Handbook†. Wiley-Vch. * * Sheila (2006). â€Å"Cream Final Edition†. The Times, London, UK. * * Sukumar De (1991). â€Å"Outlines of Dairy Technology†. Oxford University Press.

Environmental Problem: Buried Waste Disposal Sites

Buried waste disposal sites, especially those are near or the actual spots for residential houses, pose great threats to the health and wellbeing individuals who will be exposed more specifically to contaminated water systems. (â€Å"Background on Buried Waste at INL Site,† 2008) Aside from the contamination of the water system that might result to illnesses and diseases caused by water-borne bacteria and viruses, residential houses built on buried waste disposal sites might experience extreme termite or rodent problems which are unsanitary and harmful to the health of families who live in the area.Another issue is the impending threat of obtaining respiratory illnesses from air pollution caused by the excessive amount of chemicals and other compounds present in the area. (Krieger & Higgins, 2002) When it comes to the safety of living in an area built on a buried waste disposal site, there are little guarantees that the foundation of the houses is solid enough to last for the next decade. Chemical processes that take place due to the contact of chemicals underneath the soil might affect the quality of the land and its ability to be unyielding to deterioration and wreckage.(â€Å"Fact Sheet,† 2006) Learning that the house my family and I has been staying for in the past fifteen years was built over a buried waste disposal site would cause a sudden alarm. There is a need to report this issue to authorities, or institutions who are involved with the issue and will be able to help resolve the problems. Government agencies, real estate institutions, neighbors, and other private institutions that specialize in the area of environmental policies and implementation should be informed of such problem.Next, there is a need to recommend evacuation to safer areas for the meantime while studies will be conducted to determine the potential problems that have affected the topography of the area and the potential problems that might have long-term effects on indi viduals who have stayed in the area during the last decade. Also, undergoing medical examination and health-related assessments would be a great move to determine if the time spent living within the area has had an impact on our health and wellbeing.In terms of evaluating the land located over a buried waste disposal site, there are various techniques or approaches available to evaluate potential problems in the future. To determine the impact of the buried waste on the water system, there is a need to implement the processes of waste containment, area restrictions, and groundwater monitoring. Although water sampling would suffice in determining the level of contamination, if present, in the water system, there is a need to implement a thorough process of involving not only the groundwater but the buried wastes in the area.These processes will help authorities to determine whether the buried waste is affecting the water system, and if not, to establish ways to prevent it from happen ing. Moreover, this will also help in determining whether the people who have lived in the area have been exposed to dangerous bacteria or viruses from the contaminated water system. (â€Å"Fact Sheet,† 2006) Another method of approaching the buried waste disposal site problem is the implementation of the baseline risk assessment. This process helps environmental officers and professionals in determining the types of contaminants present in the area.Through the use of historical records and other information that pertain to how the waste disposal site was managed in the past, environment conscious institutions will be able to determine how to approach the problem. They will be able to determine what types of contaminants to look for based on the types of waste disposed in the area. (â€Å"Buried Waste Environmental Investigation,† 2006) Perhaps the most thorough process of evaluating the risks posed by the buried waste disposal site is the risk screening approach.This process follows the direction of the potential impacts that the waste might produce, from its source to its closing stages. The site will be screened in every aspect and dimensions, making sure that possible effect are identified. Once this is concluded, it is time to conduct prevention measures according to the level or priority – depending on the magnitude of damage or threat that the site may impose on the area and human life. (Environmental Protection Agency, 2007) References â€Å"Background on Buried Waste at INL Site. † (2008).Retrieved November 11, 2008, from Idaho Cleanup Project. Website: http://www. id. doe. gov/NEWS/PressReleases/PR080701-Announcement/HistoryofBuriedWaste. pdf â€Å"Buried Waste Environmental Investigation. † (2006). Retrieved November 11, 2008, from Idaho Cleanup Project. Website: https://idahocleanupproject. com/Portals/0/documents/BuriedWaste%20factsheet%20english%20FINAL. pdf Environmental Protection Agency. (2007). CODE OF PRACT ICE: Environmental Risk Assessment for Unregulated Waste Disposal Sites. Website: http://www. epa.ie/downloads/advice/waste/waste/epa_cop_waste_disposal_sites. pdf â€Å"Fact Sheet. † (2006). Retrieved November 11, 2008, from Environmental Protection Agency. Website: http://www. epa. gov/region7/factsheets/2006/fs_eeca_former_ne_plant_mead_ne1106. htm Krieger, J. & Higgins, D. L. (2002). Housing and Health: Time Again for Public Health Action. American Journal of Public Health, Volume 92, Issue 5. Retrieved November 11, 2008, from ProQuest. Website: http://proquest. umi. com/pqdweb? did=118106560&sid=2&Fmt=3&clientId=4538&RQT=309&VName=PQD

Analytical Proceduresâ€Ratio Analysis Form

11 ANALYTICAL PROCEDURES—RATIO ANALYSIS FORM The auditor can use this form to document the performance and evaluation of ratio analysis in connection with analytical procedures performed in an audit. The form is only a guide and is not a substitute for professional judgment. The form may be modified by adding or omitting certain ratio analysis. CLIENT NAME: DATE OF FINANCIAL STATEMENTS: LIQUIDITY RATIOS 20__20__19__19__ 1. Current ratio = Current Assets Current Liabilities____________________ Comments: 20__20__19__19__ 2. Quick or acid test ratio =Current Assets – Inventory Current Liabilities____________________ Comments: PROFITABILITY RATIOS 20__20__19__19__ 1. Gross profit ratio = Net Sales – Cost of Goods Sold Net Sales____________________ Comments: 20__20__19__19__ 2. Operating margin ratio = Income before Income Taxes and Interest Net Sales____________________ Comments: 20__20__19__19__ 3. Net income ratio (or profit margin ratio) = Net Income Net Sales____ ________________ Comments: 20__20__19__19__ 4. Return on total assets ratio = Net Income + Interest Expense Total Assets____________________Comments: 20__20__19__19__ 5. Return on equity ratio = Net Income Average Stockholders’ Equity____________________ Comments: LEVERAGE RATIOS 20__20__19__19__ 1. Debt to assets ratio = Total Debt Total Assets____________________ Comments: 20__20__19__19__ 2. Debt to equity ratio = Long-Term Debt Stockholder’s Equity____________________ Comments: 20__20__19__19__ 3. Times interest earned ratio = Income before Income Taxes and Interest Interest Expense____________________ Comments: ACTIVITY RATIOS 20__20__19__19__ 1. Inventory turnover =Cost of Goods Sold Average Inventory____________________ Comments: 20__20__19__19__ 2. Average age of inventory = 360 Days Inventory Turnover____________________ Comments: 20__20__19__19__ 3. Accounts receivable turnover = Net Sales Average Accounts Receivable____________________ Comments: 20__20__19__ 19__ 4. Days sales in accounts receivable = 360 Days Accounts Receivable Turnover____________________ Comments: 20__20__19__19__ 5. Asset turnover = Net Sales Total Assets____________________ Comments: Prepared by Date Approved by Date

International logistics Level 2 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

International logistics Level 2 - Essay Example It also entails the efficiency of in-process account, complete products, as well as information that relates to the final consumption by the consumers from the point of production of the consumable goods. The operations of the company in the attainment of vision and mission rely heavily on the environmental location. For instance, special considerations are made for the silver town Refinery’s upstream supplies chain and the next tier downstream in regards to the reinstated logistical processes. The completion of logistical processes in production and delivery of the products is more successful when the company is able to address a range of challenges that are commonly faced. There is also a need for change adoption to enhance the survival values of the Tate and Lyle organization in Britain. However, constraints for transformation have been rampantly experienced and are an ample factor for address. The recent developments in the organization entail the utilization of supply-cha in management strategies with an intention of countering every form of organizational negativity. The best models of supply chain need be utilized in the logistical processes management to ensure organization compatibility with the input strategies (Plunkett, 2007). The discussion in this paper establishes the key factors that influence the logistical processes at Tate and Lyle. The comprehension of these factors will be boosted by conducting a special survey on the Silver town Refinery’s upstream supplies chain and the next tier downstream. Identification of the range of challenges that Tate and Lyle must address is also considered vital at this juncture and the different logistical activities within the supply chain. It is also crucial to investigate into the extent of change of activities at Tate and Lyle could change and constrains for change that are majorly experienced. Key factors that influence the logistical processes at Tate and Lyle Logistical processes at Tate and Lyle are massively influenced by overwhelming factors that are deemed crucial as success or failure drivers. The most crucial and long term factor is the organizational equipment that is utilized in the execution of the required processes. The plant is well established in ample sites that follow each other to accomplish a sequential process. The location of a main plant at Silver town is considered as an upstream domain for the main production of the needed end products, while the downstream tiers are considered as sequential plants that enhance the produced goods delivery to the final customer. Every organization upstream settings determine the success of the downstream tiers and the final product deliveries. Thus, the Tate and lyre logistical processes execution are highly determined by the operational equipment in the set up plant. Secondly, the operational compatibility is a long term factor that influences logistical processes. The Tate and Lyle being a food company has operat ional

Information management Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Information management - Essay Example This paper will equally explain why information and knowledge have become more important in contemporary societies, differentiating industrial from knowledge economies. The paper will relevantly apply the framework Knowledge Management Value Chain to explain how Knowledge Management Systems can improve knowledge management in organisations, and the limitations of such systems. Explaining the three conceptual frameworks by Michel Porter The three generic strategies for building a competitive advantage include cost leadership, differentiation, and focus. The focus strategy has two variables that include cost focus and differentiation focus. In cost leadership, a company seeks to become a low cost producer in its area of specialization where it must find and exploit available sources of cost advantage. This is possible only where the company is able to command prices in the neighborhood of the average price. In this case, cost advantage is dependent on the structure of the industry and its sources are not exclusive and may include proprietary technology, the pursuit of economies of scale, and preferential access to raw materials. A firm that manifests cost leadership guarantees competitive advantage. Dell Computer Company falls in this strategy. ... In cost focus strategy, the company seeks a lower-cost advantage in the minor market segments. It focuses on a basic product that is dominant and high priced but acceptable to sufficient consumers. A small retailer featuring its own-label is a good example in this strategy. In the differentiation focus strategy, a company seeks differentiation between needs and wants that an existing competitor is not providing within just one or a small number of target market segments. A perfume shop is a good example (Porter, 1998, p. 11-15). The five forces model addresses the operating environment of a company and includes the threat of entry, the power of buyers, the power of suppliers, the threat of substitutes, and competitive rivalry. The force of threat of entry notes that the ease of easier of new companies to enter the industry generates stiff competition. As such, the numerous conditions that limit the threat of new entrants to the market are the barriers to entry. On the other hand, the force of threat of substitutes is the probability of a consumer to change to a competitive product or service. This arises from the similarity of substitutes. The lower the changing cost the greater the threat. The force of power of suppliers relates to the amount of pressure that suppliers can place on a business. The larger the suppliers pressure power, the greater the competitive advantage. The force of pressure customers relate to the pressure that a customer can place on a business. The greater the customers pressure power, the less the competitive advantage of the company. The force of competition rivalry describes the intensity of competition between existing firms in an industry. Competitive advantage falls with an increase in competition. The

Business strategy Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 3

Business strategy - Essay Example In the strategy review and evaluation phase, the company’s project managers determine whether the chosen strategy is meeting its objectives. In the process, the managers should give particular emphasis to the internal and external factors based on which the strategy was developed. The process of strategy evaluation generally consists of four steps including setting benchmark of performance, performance measurement, assessing variance, and taking corrective actions (‘Strategy Evaluation Process..’). In order to clearly review and evaluate the current performance of the chosen strategy, Cath Kidston Ltd should periodically measure and assess the outcomes identified. It would be a better strategy for the managers to compare the actual outcomes against industry benchmarks, and corporate, operational, and individual targets. A close assessment of outcomes in the light of industry benchmarks would assist the company to determine whether or not the strategy performs up to the industry standards (Aswathappa, 2010, p.346). If appropriate tools are available for measuring the performance and the standards were set in the right manner, then it is really easy for the company to evaluate the strategy implemented. However, sometimes it is a cumbersome task to measure managers’ contributions and divisional performance as there is no single defined tactic to do this. For measuring the outcomes and evaluating the performance of the strategy, it is advisable for the Cath Kidston Ltd to prepare financial statements such as balance sheet and profit and loss account for interim periods. While comparing with actual outcomes with industry benchmarks and other standards, the variance observed must be thoroughly evaluated. Managers must check whether the variance between actual and standard performance lies within the degree of tolerance limits set during the strategy formation. A positive deviation indicates that the strategy performs better than planned. At