Alexander the Great – Essay 6

Alexander the Great is often thought of as the greatest military commander that the world has ever seen. He was born in July of 356 B. C to King Philip II of Macedonia and Olympias. Since his youth, Alexander was tutored and trained by great philosophers such as Aristotle and Leonidas. His legacy of greatness started with the taming of the wild horse, Bucephalus. Alexander of Macedonia is worthy of the title, Great, due to his strategic military operations, his expansion of the Greek Empire, and the cultural diffusion of the Greeks across the world. Alexander the Great is recognized as one of the greatest commanders that world has ever seen, if not the greatest. Alexander first led troops as a mere teenager and became king afterwards due to the assassination of his father. He decided to expand the Greek Empire, which his dad, King Philip, started but couldn't finish. At just the age of twenty years old, he set out with a massive army to conquer the east. During his time of campaign, he never lost a singer battle and was hailed as a hero and god for overcoming the Persian Empire. Alexander the Great expanded the Greek Empire to be from the Ionian Sea to a part of Northern India. He formed the largest empire of the time that the world was yet to see. This alone make him deserving of the title â€Å"Great†, but Alexander also played an important role in the cultural diffusion of Greek ideas. Alexander the Great spread the Greek culture throughout the world. The start of western culture came with the Greeks, and Alexander made it achieve global dominance by spreading it throughout the vast empire that he formed. He introduced the notion that the government should be for everyone, no just the wealthy. He is also considered to be a pioneer in urban planning and established around twenty cities, such as Alexandria, that became important trade centers and locations of many cultures. The local culture was further changed by Alexander's Greek-influenced city planning techniques, which established towns with a central market square, school, offices, shops, a public theater, and gym. It was changes such as these that led to the Hellenistic period of Greece after the death of Alexander, which is marked with increasing urbanization. His empire contained many cultures because he allowed the nations he conquered to practice any religion they wanted. He also incorporated some of the ideas of other nation into Greek culture making it stronger and lasting. As Alexander the Great made his way back to Greece, after conquering a part of India, he was stricken with severe fever and died in Babylon at the age of thirty-two. He had achieved so many accomplishments that few could measure up to. His legacy had influence on many cultures and nations and led to many developments in the economy and changes to the government. He redesigned history and was an inspiration to future military leaders like Julius Caesar. It is through these accomplishments that he proved worthy of being called the â€Å"Great†. Alexander the Great changed the historical development of his country. While his father has made major changes inroads in expanded Macrdonia beyond the Balkan Peninusula, it was Alexander who expanded the sphere of influence well beyond even his father's great expectations. Alexander also carried the message of Greek democracy to Asia and into the dark continent of Africa, the journey that the concept would have never taken place. It was Alexander who introduced the individual freely participating in government, and it was this idea that government was for everyone, not simply for the wealthy. This influenced not only the historical development of his own country, but also inspired other countries to establish the same systems of government.

IMAX’s business level strategy Essay

1. Discuss IMAX’s business level strategy to date and proposed changes. (10 points) Products differentiation The large format movie system gives customers unique visual and audio movie watching experience that cannot be found in conventional movie theaters. IMAX is also differentiated by its library of films and locations. IMAX located itself in institutional environment and commercial multiplexes to target wider audiences include family, students, and tourists at different time during the day by screening its own movies and other studios’ movies. Speaking of the technologies, IMAX films printed on larger films, which require special designed camera, projector, and screen to display the IMAX features. Cost leadership. The company heavily invests financial and human resources in their R&D, because the technologies developed would lower the costs of producing and distributing films significantly. The newer service agreements and partnership with theater owners allow IMAX lower its capital requirements when new IMAX screens were opened in the traditional multiplexes. IMAX not only saves money on films making because they don’t have to pay a lots of money to the major stars as the Hollywood does, but also save money on the marketing. IMAX increased the number of Hollywood movies in order to ride on the coat- tails of marketing campaigns launched by the studios. The proposed expanding strategies will bring more audience to IMAX, and save more production and distribution costs. By opening new IMAX screen in commercial multiplexes will give customers easy access to IMAX movie, and allow IMAX gain more market share, and increase box ticket revenue. Although the initial system installation and movie converting costs are big, over long term IMAX can achieve economies of scale by utilizing the IMAX system installed in traditional theaters. 2. Conduct an external analysis. (25 points) a). PESTEL framework Political factors Concerns about violence, sex, and vulgar language in movies had generated considerable efforts to organize and lobby political action to regulate the industry. There are some limit in terms on selection of movies. Legal factors Copyright law protects this industry suffering from piracy. Violations of copyright act were considered felonies and were subject to federal criminal charges and civil lawsuits. Patent law also protects the technologies heavily used in this industry. Economic factors The economy is fairly stable except the crisis that hit the industry in the late 1990s because of the overbuilding during that decade, the 911 crisis in the early 2000s and the economic recession in 2008. The economic crisis in 2001 and 2008 would reduce people’s disposable income therefore reduce the revenue of the industry. Socio-cultural IMAX is trendy. It does not matter that if people have seen movies in the traditional theater before, some of them would like to watch on IMAX screen again. Parents looking for activities combine education and entertainment would go to IMAX. More highly educated parents and overscheduled kids would like to go to places equipped with IMAX system. The college and university education are popularized which increases the majority of IMAX audiences. Technology factor New filming technology development are encouraged and supported by funds, associations and Oscar Award. But the development of high-definition DVD recording, big screen TVs and cheaper projection and sound system technology offers potential IMAX viewers’ alternative sources of entertainment. The internet, live play, TV programs and cables are also substituting technologies. b). Porter’s Five Forces IMAX operating in three industries: photographic equipment and supplies industry, motion and picture and video production and distribution industry. Barriers to entry  This industry requires upfront investments to develop technologies, relationship with producer and access to the distribution channels. IMAX held 46 patents and has seven patents pending in the United States, in order to enter this industry, potential competitors must develop their substitute technologies, or take the risks of copying IMAX’s patented technologies, and  both are very costly. IMAX is achieving economies of scale, the more movies released in IMAX format, the more the IMAX system installed are utilized. IMAX is also updating their technologies and making improvement to lower the costs of operations, therefore the learning curve cost advantages act as a barrier to entry. The barrier to enter this industry is high. Threats of substitutes Live plays, sport events, TV programs (big screen TV, cable, and satellite), the internet, DVD, home theater projection and sound system are all alternatives of IMAX movie for consumers to entertain themselves in a different way. These substitutes also prevent IMAX from raising the ticket price. The threats of substitutes are high. Suppliers The suppliers are vendors who provide the critical elements involved in IMAX’s projectors and camera systems, film making talents (actors, post-production workers), other studios (Hollywood, Disney, SKG DreamWorks etc.), and movie distributers (theater chain). The suppliers’ power is low because by releasing movies in IMAX format and opening more IMAX screens will increase the box office revenue for all the parties involved. IMAX does not pay top stars to make movies. They pay the actors whose median salary is $17 per hour. IMAX has most its post-production work done by its wholly-owned subsidiary. IMAX purchases its equipment components from vendors with whom it maintained long-term relationships. Buyers Buyers are people who are willing to pay for the IMAX movie tickets, and theater chain has IMAX systems installed in their theaters. IMAX doesn’t rely on certain type of buyers. The buyer range is very wide, and from different demographic. They are not likely to be price sensitive because the majority IMAX audience with average household income of more than $70000. The product offered by IMAX is much differentiated, and buyers cannot get the same watching experience anywhere else. Overall, the buyers’ power is low. Rivalry The rivalry is low because IMAX was founded as the only company in the world that was involved in all aspects of large format films. IMAX doesn’t have  direct competitor in this industry. Even though some of the moviegoer may choose the traditional theater instead of watching IMAX, most the IMAX audience are willing to pay extra $3 to $5 to experience the unique IMAX features and some of them already watched the same movie in the traditional theater before. Additionally, only IMAX movies have long lifespans in the theater circuit. In conclusion, I think this industry is attractive. c). Key opportunities and threats Opportunities: Large format film industry is emerging industry, and this industry is driven by technological innovations, changes in demand, and customer needs. IMAX can utilize the first-movers advantages. IMAX has the technological leadership, and also obtains the patent protections that enhance their performance. IMAX has the opportunities to tie up the strategically valuable resources, which are the relationships with independent filmmakers, and distribution channel such as theater chains, so that it can success in this industry Threats: IMAX is a relatively small firm compared to a rival studio, so they might be bought, and becomes a part of another company. IMAX is not able to maintain their brand image if so many Hollywood movies released in IMAX format. 3. VRIO (25 points) Valuable Rare Inimitable Organized Competitive implications Technological leadership Yes Yes Yes Yes Sustainable competitive advantage Locations Yes Yes No Yes Temporary competitive advantage Relationships with other studios and theaters Yes No No Yes Competitive parity Brand image Yes Yes Yes Yes Sustainable competitive advantage Cash flow No No No Yes Competitive disadvantage The technologies allow IMAX display the large format film features on giant screen to attract customers. Because of the patent protection, it is rare and hard to copy. IMAX invested in their R&D, and received grants and award from third parties, so it is organized. By locating itself in institutional environment, IMAX creates a unique brand and attract different group of audience, so it is valuable. It is rare because not so many entertaining facilities opened in this environment. This strategy is not hard to imitate. It is organized because some of the IMAX films were educational and entertaining, and involved documentaries of natural and scientific wonders, so it valid to have IMAX in these locations. Convert other studios’ movies into IMAX format increase the IMAX ticket revenue, so it is valuable. The alliance with other filmmakers also saving IMAX’s marketing expenditure. It is not rare because the Hollywood movies also released on DVD, pay-per-view  format. People can also watch movies on TV and internet. It is not costly to imitate. It is organized because not all the Hollywood movies are released in IMAX format, it must be carefully chosen. The brand image is valuable because the large films features and unique watching experience are only associated with this brand name. It is rare because this product can only be provided by IMAX. It is hard to copy because this brand image is developed over long time, and IMAX has the first mover advantage. The company R&D and new services are supporting this brand image in terms of innovation and cost saving, so it is organized. The cash flow is not valuable because this company has negative net income for 2006 and 2007. The fact that IMAX’s debt has been downgraded is an indication that the company’s liquidity is questionable. It is organized because IMAX is trying to solve this problem by signing new service agreement, which would lower its operational capital requirements and help it pay off its debt. More box office revenue is expected by converting more commercial movies into IMAX format. 4. Based on your analysis, would you recommend proceeding with and expanding the strategy to exhibit Hollywood movies? Should the firm retrench? (20 points) Pro: Hollywood movies are the most popular movies in the world, by releasing more Hollywood movies in IMAX format, more audience will be attracted by the combination of the movie and unique watching experience. This is the quickest way to make revenue in order to improve the company’s financial situation. This strategy also allows IMAX to take advantage of marketing campaigns launched by the studios therefore to save the marketing expenses. Because Hollywood movies has the most market shares, and this high demand will stimulate the theater owners to open more IMAX screens. It gives IMAX the opportunity to attract more viewers and expand the core audience. IMAX can make more revenue by signing more service agreements with traditional theaters, and make profits by maintaining the system and sharing ticket revenue. If IMAX is releasing more Hollywood movies, share price is likely to go up, and create more value for shareholders. The more confident the stakeholders are, the easier for IMAX to raise capital to focus on technology R&D and further differentiate its products. The digital re-mastering technology reduced converting costs. Converting other studio’s movie is now making more profits and cost less. Con: Screening re-formatted movie is not as profitable as screening IMAX own movies, and makes IMAX take  the risk of diluting its brand image. Releasing more Hollywood movies may let people question IMAX’s educational function. The violence and sex contents in Hollywood movie may drive parents and their children away. Screening more Hollywood movies will benefit IMAX. It increases the revenue and the number of audience; therefore I recommend proceeding with and expanding the strategy to exhibit Hollywood movies. In long term, because IMAX has all these great technologies, and more stable financial supports, they should focus on developing its own movies. IMAX also should launch more marketing campaigns to promote its movies in order to maintain the brand image, and place more emphasis on its educational and entertaining functions. IMAX may develop some sub brands for example like, Smart Imax Kids, or Learning with Imax which only located at institutional environments and integrate with the ride simulation packages to target specific demographics. This action will strengthen IMAX brand image and make the young generations and potential Hollywood moviegoers like these brands and become real IMAX fans when they grow up.

Case Study – Richard Phillips and family

In considering the actions available for the police and the social worker, this essay will initially look at the background to the present youth justice system. It will go on to consider areas of tension and conflict that exist at a number of levels within the system, for example the conflict between the welfare model of the Children Act 1989 and the justice model that underpins the Crime and Disorder Act 1998. It will examine the rights, duties and responsibilities of those involved before going on to summarise the impacts of the actions that might be taken. †¦ Youth justice has always been a contentious subject. Some people take the view that what is required is a â€Å"get tough† approach, while others see a more positive approach to the issue in welfare and community based initiatives†¦ † (Workbook 3, p 38). A consequence of this has been that â€Å"†¦ The relationship between social work and the criminal justice system has been one of tension and ambivalence since the demise of the rehabilitative ideal of the latter decades of the twentieth century†¦ (Reader, Worrall and Souhami, p 120). Had Richard's alleged offence taken place thirty years ago it would have been dealt with against the background of the Children and Young Persons Act 1969 where the aim was to depoliticise and decriminalise youth offending. The welfare principle contained in the Children and Young Persons Act 1933 would also apply. Together, these acts require courts to give concern to the welfare of the child in youth justice proceedings. This doctrine was influenced by the developmental theory of adolescence which supports the view that while young people may commit minor crime as a part of the growing up process, they will naturally come to see such behaviour as unacceptable and reform themselves. Formal intervention would only serve to bring young people into the crime system, tarnish their prospects, and consequently, increase the likelihood of re-offending and ultimately, the numbers of victims. However, shortly after the passing of the 1969 Act, the political tide had changed. Magistrates became unhappy with social workers and custodial sentences increased. (Reader, Worrall and Souhami, p 123). Throughought the 1980s the tension between the two models led to a â€Å"†¦ twin track approach to tackling juvenile crime†¦ † (Workbook 3, p 38). The â€Å"get tough† lobby were satisfied by the introduction of the short sharp shock of new detention centres and yet at the same time politicians saw the dangers of criminalising young people. Change was inevitable and by 1996 the Audit Commission had published a report called â€Å"Misspent Youth† which was very critical of the youth justice system. This led to the Home Office paper â€Å"No More Excuses† with its model of â€Å"restorative justice† which was a precursor to the Crime and Disorder Act 1998 and the Youth Justice and Criminal Evidence Act 1999. The 1998 Act has a statutory aim of prevention of offending by children and it is against this background that Richard's alleged offence will be treated. The political pendulum had swung from a culture that saw the welfare principles as the key to reducing offending, to one that, whilst recognising rights and welfare, sees them as subsidiary to the principles of restorative justice. These principles are; restoration, where young offenders apologise and make amends, reintegration, where they pay their debt to society then rejoin it, and responsibility, which involves accepting the consequences of offending. The Act also abolished the legal doctrine of doli incapax, removing the burden of proof on prosecuting lawyers that a child defendant under the age of fourteen knew what he did was wrong (Workbook 3 pp 38 – 45 and Reader, Vernon, p 221) A clear example of this swing from welfare to justice is in the context of the Child Safety Orders introduced by the 1998 act. Breach of such an order can mean a child under ten is taken into care â€Å"†¦ irrespective of whether the threshold criteria contained in s. 31 (2) of the Children Act 1989 are satisfied†¦ † thus overriding the welfare principle (Workbook 3 p 40). Confusingly however, a contemporaneous counterbalance has been the introduction of Human Rights legislation such as the Human Rights Act 1998 as well as ratification of the United Nations Conventions on the Rights of the child. This legislation tends to reinforce the welfare principle. Stuart Vernon's comment that â€Å"†¦ hese are interesting times for youth court magistrates†¦ † is very relevant to this debate (Reader, Vernon, p 222), because it recognises the tensions that arise resulting from the divergent views held by all those involved and the resultant uncertainty as to outcomes; for victims and perpetrators of crime and their representatives. Having looked at the background to the tensions and conflicts it is now appropriate to consider how they impact on what happens next in Richard's case. Among the reforms introduced by the Crime and Disorder Act 1998 was the establishment of Youth Offending Teams (YOTs). Prior to the act, a social worker would have had responsibility for Richard's case and would involve other professionals as necessary. The Act changed this by shifting the responsibility to multi-disciplinary YOTs which comprise professionals from social services, the police, probation services, the health authority and the education authority. The establishment of these teams involved huge change and conflict between the occupational cultures of the different disciplines, for example, â€Å"†¦ police officers disliking â€Å"woolly† social workers and social work stereotypes of anti-youth police officers†¦ (Reader, Watson p 246). The Act also introduced a system of reprimands and final warnings doing away with the former system of cautions. (Reader, Watson pp 242-248). â€Å"†¦ The police are responsible for the investigation of crime. This responsibility includes the arrest, detention and questioning of suspects†¦ † (Workbook 3 p 10). The police have contacted the YOT because they want to question Richard. Under the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984, (PACE) Richard is classified as a â€Å"vulnerable† suspect and it his right not to be questioned without the presence of what is known as an â€Å"Appropriate Adult†. This right can only be overridden in very exceptional circumstances which must be authorised by a police officer of superintendent rank or above and the circumstances must be recorded in the custody record. Amongst the functions of the YOT is the provision of an appropriate adult service and these duties are often performed by a social worker. (Reader, Watson, p 244 and Workbook 3 p 73). The rile of the appropriate adult is to â€Å"†¦ provide comfort and support to a child who might otherwise be disorientated in strange surroundings†¦ (Workbook 3, p 73). She should check that the child has had nourishment and is not under the influence of drugs or alcohol and is generally in a fit state to be questioned. Under the PACE code of practice guidance, it is stated that a parent or guardian should normally undertake this function; but in this case, Richard has refused to involve his parents. In any event, the parent may not have â€Å"†¦ the experience or confidence needed to represent the child effectively in the potentially hostile atmosphere of the custody suite†¦ † (Workbook 3, p 73) It appears that Richard has not requested the presence of a solicitor and it is the duty of the social worker to encourage him to do so and explain the advantages. Marie Kearns, a youth justice worker describes how this can heighten the tension between the police and social workers because it will involve delay and the solicitor may encourage a â€Å"no comment† interview. â€Å"†¦ The police may on occasions feel they â€Å"know† who has committed a particular offence, and they do not want the interference of solicitors and â€Å"do gooding† social workers to allow the guilty to walk free†¦ (Workbook 3, p 75). At this stage and indeed every stage, the social worker must practice within the Code of Practice of the General Social Care Council. It is very important to avoid being dragged into the police culture which is a risk in a multi-disciplinary team (Reader, Worrall & Souhami, pp128/9). The social worker must practice in an anti-oppressive way, despite the seriousness of the alleged offence, working in partnership with Richard and keeping him informed about the processes and his rights at all times. It is equally important to practice in a way that is anti-discriminatory, not making any judgements about Richard because of his background (Workbook 1 pp 10 -13). The concept of partnership working between agencies involved with the welfare of children is now enshrined in law in section 10 of the Children Act 2004. Once the interview has taken place the police have to decide if there is sufficient evidence to charge Richard. They also have the option to issue a final warning under section 65 of the Crime and Disorder Act 1998. A further reprimand is not an option because Richard has already had one. The social worker can do little to influence this decision as it is solely a matter for the police. (Workbook 3 p 53 and Law Card S35). In Richard's case, it is apparent that the police intend to charge him. Section 38 of the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 recommends that children aged between ten and sixteen should be released; with or without bail once charged unless certain conditions are met. These conditions are several, but two examples are; when the custody officer has reasonable grounds to believe that detention is necessary to protect the defendant, or if it is in the defendant's best interests (Workbook 3, pp 54/5). The police have decided, in Richard's case, that the conditions are met and intend to detain him. A decision that will highlight the â€Å"†¦ continuous conflict between care and control†¦ † (Reader Worrall and Souhami, p 121) that is part of the social worker's remit. Richard's detention will normally be in local authority accommodation. This can be in the form of secure or non secure accommodation. The local authority has the power to decide where Richard is to be placed and this decision will rest with the social worker; availability of suitable accommodation being a significant feature. If the decision is to place Richard in secure accommodation then this will be subject to the provisions of Section 25 of the Children Act 1989 which allows secure placement for up to seventy two hours, but only if the child has a history of absconding or is a danger to himself or others if kept in non secure accommodation; a difficult decision for the social worker in this case. Further detention is not allowed without court intervention. There are strongly held views about whether the welfare principle of the Children Act applies in these circumstances. In 1995 the Court of Appeal stated that in such cases, whilst the welfare of the child is not irrelevant, it is not paramount. Again, confusingly however, it also ruled that social workers performing the functions of Guardian ad litem should make their reports based on what is in the best interests of the child. In practice, if the custody officer decides that provision of local authority accommodation is neither practicable nor available then Richard would remain in police custody. Contacting his parents would then become imperative (Workbook 2 p, 93 and Workbook 3 p 55). It is also important to remember Rob, who is the victim. He is also a child and is entitled to the same rights as Richard. The Local Authority also has both general duties towards him, and specific ones should the circumstances result in Rob being regarded as a child â€Å"in need† under Section 17 of the Children Act 1989 (Workbook 2 pp 18-19). His father has insisted that action be taken against Richard but it is appropriate to consider Rob's wishes; the wishes and needs of victims being an important principle of the National Standards for Youth Justice (Workbook 3 p 34). As soon as is practicable, the next task for the police is to arrange for Richard to appear before the youth court, a panel of local magistrates. They would have the option to either release Richard with or without bail or to remand him to Local Authority accommodation. Again there is room for conflict, because such accommodation may not be locally available and this could infringe Richard's right to education under both the 1998 Human Rights Act and The United Nations Convention on Rights of the Child. Interestingly, the convention appears to recognise the potential for conflict between justice and welfare using the word â€Å"primary† rather than â€Å"paramount† in Article 3 in the context of the best interests of children (Workbook, pp 16 – 17). In practice, much would depend on the outcome of the efforts to find Richard's parents. If the case goes to trial, this would also be in the youth courts where the culture has changed considerably in recent years, partly because of the tension between the welfare and justice models. In a very high profile case in 1993, two children were convicted of the murder of another child, Jamie Bulger. The intimidating nature of the trial was the subject of much criticism by human rights lawyers and in 1999, the European Court of Human Rights found that the trial breached Article 6. 1 of the European Convention on Human Rights (now incorporated into the Human Rights Act 1998) which guarantees people who are accused of crimes, the right to an effective participation in their trial. The resultant changes in the youth courts mean the use of clear language, an informal layout, better information for victims, better feedback for magistrates and more frequent lifting of reporting restrictions (Workbook 3, pp 57 – 59). If Richard pleads guilty, then as this is his first offence, a Referral Order under sections 1 – 7 of the Youth Justice and Criminal Evidence Act 1999 is likely. This would involve making a contract between Richard and the YOT aimed at reparation and prevention of re-offending (Law Card C32 (EW)). A not guilty plea means the magistrates must decide on his guilt, based upon the evidence. In the event of Richard's guilt being established, the next social work task is the preparation of the pre-sentence report â€Å"†¦ the social worker's most important contribution to the youth court†¦ (Workbook 3, p 60) which allows the court to make an informed decision based on comprehensive and accurate information about Richard. The report would be written in accordance with the National Standards for Youth Justice with a number of standard headings: Sources of information, which would include information gathered from school and home, an analysis of the offence including the impact on the victim, an assessment of the offender including risk to the community and risk of re-offending and a conclusion that would include a sentencing recommendation. (Workbook 3 p 62). The report must take into account the welfare principle of the Children and Young Persons Act 1933 as well as the aim of section 37 of the Crime and Disorder Act 1998 which is to prevent re-offending. It must be written in a way that is consistent with the core values of the Code of Practice for Social Workers with anti-discriminatory practice being a particular feature in the light of an HM Inspectorate of Probation review finding that African-Caribbeans are over represented in reports that recommend custodial sentences (Workbook 3, pp 62 – 63). After reading the report the magistrates must decide upon a sentence. A wide range is available, formerly under a number of different pieces of legislation but now incorporated into the Powers of the Criminal Courts (Sentences) Act 2000. In Richard's case a Supervision Order under sections 63-68 of the act is likely, or an Action Plan order under section 69. These orders can include specific requirements such as where Richard is to live, what he is to do, and compliance with his supervisor's directions. The orders can last for up to three years. At the other end of the scale, should Richard re-offend, then a Detention and Training order under section 73 of the Crime and Disorder Act 1998 would be available. This would deprive him of his liberty (Workbook 3, pp 65 – 67 and Update Supplement, p 22) and increase the likelihood of an ongoing spiral of crime, the worst impact for Richard (Workbook 3, p 68). In conclusion then, it can be seen that conflict and tension feature strongly in youth justice. Some people argue that aspects of the Crime and Disorder Act 1998 are unnecessary if the resources were made available to allow Local Authorities to carry out their duty to prevent offending that is stated in schedule 2 of the Children Act 1989. The 1998 act also has a preventative aim although only 2. 5% of the budget is committed to it (Workbook 3, p 46). It is against this background that social workers in youth justice face the challenge of how to operate in a system where the measures of success are constantly swinging between retributive and rehabilitative goals, without compromising their own Professional Code of Practice (Workbook 3, p 5).

Advertising questions Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Advertising questions - Essay Example His other roles include finding an understanding of audience’s requirements and organizing meetings with the creative director. The art director works hand in hand with the copywriter (Mahon, 2010). This is because, a copywriter produces the words which accompany visual pictures developed by the art director. Work functions include; collaborating with copywriter to produce the best form of advertisements, providing briefs to other members in the creative team and editing the final piece. The position of an art director requires leadership skills. This is the ability to bring team members together for attaining set objectives. Also, he or she must be open-minded. This involves accepting other people’s ideas to develop quality advertisements. Similarly, art directors should be creative  ; ability to come up with and implement new ideas. Learning advertising improves my understanding of requirements in this sector, helping to create mutual existence in the organization. Moreover, the idea of advertising in my internship enabled learning of various organizational requirements for marketing function to operate as required. Expressing my ideas with the resume was quite a challenge for a variety of reasons. For one, required qualifications for internship did not match the content in the CV. Moreover, the recruitment agency advised that a CV should, in details, express direct contributions to organization’s success. The working process at Newad is efficient. Duties and responsibilities are well defined with no overlapping of duties. I would consider beginning my career in this organization as an art director. I have always had the passion to develop and innovating visual materials used in media advertising. Moreover, art directors in this company appear to love their job, and this is a

On a Daily Activity Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

On a Daily Activity - Essay Example College is not an easy matter, and great devotion is necessary in order to succeed. As I went out the door I saw the sun burning brightly, maybe to brightly. I never had a love for hot weather, and I probably never will. Close to the fence I saw my grandmother and she was talking to a person who I didn't know. She gave me one of her usually look, with her piercing brown eyes and sinister smile. "Going to school" she said. "Yes I am". "You have an exam session right now, correct" "Yes I do well" "I hope you don't mess up". "I hope so too". She always said that. Always. And I hated every single word of it. No matter how well I did, there was always the possibility that I might mess up. But, I would be wrong if I said that her words where without meaning. It was an exam session, and the exams were quite hard. I do have more faith in myself, than in my grandmother words, so I believed that I would prevail. As I was walking towards the train station, I thought about a very interesting dre am I had last night. It was a wonderful dream, or rather a memory. I was lying on a beach near a lake and my girlfriend was lying next to me, her slender body so close to me that made breathing a Herculaneum task. She raised her head and smiled at me, her smile beautiful as ever. "Don't you think we should go home" she said "Just for a little while. I'm not in a hurry to get back home." "I hope you're not. I would be very offended". And then she widened her smile- a smile so enchanting; it will make even the strongest man a mere weakling. I don't get to see my girlfriend very much. We are both on college and they both have different responsibilities. I wish I could spend more time with her, but I guess you can get always what you want. I arrived at the train station and at first sight there wasn't anyone that I knew. I was entertaining myself with my MP3 player, as I am used to traveling and being alone, not including the presence of my close friends and girlfriend. Suddenly I heard a familiar voice. It was Christine, a girl I went to high school with, and I should say she was quite attractive that day. With her slender body, lovely smile and eyes that can seduce a god, she could have any man she wants. But I wasn't interested in her, nor I believe she was interested in me. "Hey, how are you doing I haven't seen you in a while. You look great!" "Thanks Christine. You look great as well, as always. Look, is the train going to be late The train during this time is usually late." "No I don't think so. They said that it was going to be on time. So are you going alone" "Yes I am a. What about you" "I met up with some of our old friends from high school and I am going with them. You can join us, of course." "Thanks. I will just a second." I went and I bought a newspaper. As usual there was nothing interesting to see. It was just your usual falling economy and various wars that exist in the world. The train came on time, just as Christine said. As usual, the train wa s crowded and there was nowhere to sit. We had to stand all the way to our final destination. As usual I indulged myself in my newspaper and the music coming out from my MP3 player. I was never a conversationalist and I didn't join the conversations that my former schoolmates were having. Caught and confined into a very small space, I waited for our hour-long journey to end.  Ã‚  

Energy Expenditure and Lab Report Guide Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Energy Expenditure and Lab Report Guide - Essay Example In this case, the kilocalorie percentage was 26.3 percent from carbohydrate, and 73.7 percent from fat. The total energy expenditure from carbohydrate equaled 14.71 kilocalories multiplied by the 26.3 percent of the total kilocalories from carbohydrate, in the end equaling 3.87 kilocalories from cholesterol alone. The total energy expenditure from fat equaled 14.71 kilocalories multiplied by the 26.3 percent kilocalories solely from fat; in the end 10.84 kilocalories were from fat. The 10-min oxygen consumption, while exercising for our subject, was equal to 25.39 VO2 L/m. The average RER during our subjects exercise was .8952. The formula that was needed to calculate respiratory exercise ratio during exercise was the average Carbon dioxide production (VCO2) during exercise divided by the average oxygen consumption (VO2). When the RER sums up to .8952 the caloric equivalent to this was 4.924 kilocalories per liquid oxygen. Gross energy expenditure during exercise is calculated by taking 25.39-oxygen consumption multiplied by 4.924 caloric equivalents equaling a total of 125.02 kilocalories. The net energy expenditure of our subject that was 125.02 equals Gross energy expenditure plus the resting energy expenditure equals 139.73. To calculate the total resting energy expenditure derived from carbohydrate and fat you take the RER and find the percentage kilocalorie for both of them. The percentage kilocalorie that derived from carbohydrate was 67.5. The percentage kilocalorie that came from fat was 32.5. The energy expenditure from carbohydrates equaled to 139.73 kilocalories multiplied by 67.5 percent equaling a total of 74.07 kilocalories deriving from carbohydrates. The energy expenditure from fat equals 139.73 kilocalories multiplied by 32.5 percent equaling a total of 45.41 kilocalories from fat. This sort of testing can be applied

A landscape material - Mulch (Organic) Assignment

A landscape material - Mulch (Organic) - Assignment Example In such like practices, a form of irrigation known as Drip is often essential because plastics never allow water to penetrate through. In the small-scale farming, commonly used mulch is the homemade organic mulch. It involves farm remains and household leftovers. After being composed in an accurate place for some time, it will then be placed in between the plants by use of hands. Initially, mulch is often introduced into the farm during the start of a growing season. Some farmers can opt to add it ones on the farm while others can continuously reapply it over and over. During these times, the mulch will efficiently provide a form of heating system to the soil through the retaining of the heat. In this attempt, it will create room for individual activities including early harvesting and relocation of the crops. In the long run, the soil will end up attaining firmness in relation to adequate warmth and moisture (Ripley, 56). The use of mulch has always been accompanied by several benefits to both the land, the plants and to the landowners too. First, use of mulch helps significantly in the ensuring that the soil preserves much water during the dry seasons. Mulch can be of many benefits in the event of trying to overcome the weeds available in a certain piece of land. The applied mulch will tend to cover the available spaces that ought to have been the growing space for the weeds. Mulch also increases the efficiency of the texture of the soil. In certain places, farmers have embarked in using of mulch manure in an attempt to prevent the infestation of the crops by some pests. Mulch is also beneficial to the plants by offering protection to the roots of the plants in certain extreme temperatures. Crops are often known to fall from the main plant due to certain reasons including wind. However, in the event that mulch is used on a farm, it can be of help suppose an edible crop or fruit drops. The mulch will assist greatly in the

Business Research Methods Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Business Research Methods - Assignment Example The information that was gathered from the research completed is of great help to the company. This is because the company is able to pinpoint their strong hold like customer’s satisfaction, loyalty to its products, and its products competitiveness in the market. This is very important in any organization in order to maximize the profits (Allan, 2007, p 45). In the first part of the question that gets to know how first the customers was attended to. It’s observed that most of the customers this is approximately 62% seem to have been attended to in less than 5 minutes. This is a ratio question that its goal is to establish an exact time. The therefore having more than half of the customers falling on the upper cut in terms of in time service it’s commendable. No one likes to wait for service delivery we all detest quest .In the business world service delivery is key (Fraser, 1990, p 23). The second question in the research is also out to establish the almost exact amount of time that the customer gets responded to. As a company apple is trying to establish its competence in customer service when it comes to responding to their needs. Most of the customers as well here seem to get their response in a span of less than 12 hours. It is all logical to know that customers especially if one is calling regarding problem with products provided by apple company among them phones which are an everyday use a 12 hour wait for them to attend and fix a problem is long. Therefore the response shows that most of the customers get delayed service hence it’s in order for apple to improve on the above (Trochim, 2000, p 78). Referring to the third question in regards to the second question. We come across customers calling for all the varied reasons this includes warranty claim, more information on the products, web pages among others. Looking at this in a customer’s point of view it clearly shows some sort of inefficiency. This is because when cu stomer is calling to inquire about for instance there settings with the web pages and they get the response after 2 hours or so. The information they needed might not be of any help later .People ask questions to get direct answers to solve their problems according to philosopher Rene Decartes. While information gets to an individual not immediately it does not serve the intended purpose. Only 19% of the customers seem to have gotten the information in less than 2 hours (Fraser, 1990, p 76). According to the research we gather that those with problems with functionality of the products, and service problem had to wait for the longest time. As indicated prior apple products are an everyday use therefore their failure to function or delayed fixing can cause an individual a job, money time, it has power even to spoil a day and even break a relationship either personal or professional. Apple customers as the research gathers are young people by young we are talking less than 40 year old s that is where the customer base is. The company has been able to detain this age group because of its products that are saying compatible with the age. This age comprises late teens this is where freshmen in college fall to the young entrepreneurs who are striving hard to climb the corporate ladder. Basically what this age comprises is the proverbial young and energetic. Therefore having established that apple company has the right information required to identify its strength and weaknesses among its customers (Trochim, 2000, p 57). The question that rates the customer service the research finds out the customer service at apple is rated very low that is it falls below average. The customer service

Sears Goes Swingy for Tweens and Teens Term Paper

Sears Goes Swingy for Tweens and Teens - Term Paper Example A balanced market price was formed as a result of the implementation of the various strategies into use. Sears has invented diverse strategies to control shopping tendencies. It included rewards and grants into its system. It created a self image through various strategies, like the use of social net, leading to dynamic relationships within the society through partnership with other companies. Sears is an example of the firm that incorporates successful marketing activities into its operation. The company is working towards becoming an investment boulevard because of the high level of retail target it makes compared to other retail stores. Introduction Consumer behavior is an issue of concern amongst consumers and relevant authorities. Sears is the company that is constantly changing its advertising techniques to gratify the requirements of clients. The company targeted markets are teens, and the promotion systems the company uses are online and social network scenes. These technique s create awareness of the needed products that the firm offers to its targeted clients. This unit examines the images, commodities, and the marketing strategies used by Sears in the achievement of its objectives. 1 The image of the company immensely determines how a business is perceived amongst various concerned stakeholders. Stakeholders of a company comprise of individuals contributing the start-up capital, the purchasers of end products, and individuals affected by the company’s actions. Company’s image is what attracts clients to choose a business over other existing businesses providing the same products or services. â€Å"Do not Just Go Back. Arrive,† Arrive Lounge is an attractive site commonly associated with the teens. Sears had noticed a decrease in the purchasing trends of the products it produces, therefore, having invented the strategy â€Å"Don’t just Go Back. Arrive, â€Å"to help in augmenting the sales of its products by enticing the c lients to purchase from their departmental stores (Nickels, 1980). The partnership between Sears and social networking cites was aimed at improving the company’s image and increasing product sales of the company. Social network scenes serve as effective channels for reaching targeted markets in scenarios where the targeted market is composed of teens and tweens. The scenes also serve as interactive forums where a significant number of teenagers spend their time searching for new information or interacting with friends online. The choice by Sears to reach its targeted market via the social network scenes is of immense benefit to the company because it easily identifies with the client’s needs. The identification with the clients creates for the company an upstanding image leading to the development of brand loyalty by consumers (Hadden & Luce, 1923). 2 Sears offers diverse fashionable clothes to clients and to the wider targeted market. Consumer behavior in the purchase of the clothes is different amongst clients because of demographic features present in the society. Families prefer shopping for Sears’ clothes to other clothes produced by other companies. This because it offers descent clothes like maternity clothes that are relatively affordable and are designed according to an individual’s taste. Secondly, the company presents a range of clothes to Christmas shoppers. Families round the globe highly uphold festivities period, and Sears provides clothing solutions during these periods. The designs for

Crash Essay Example for Free

Crash Essay Description: The film Crash illustrates through various characters many themes that are sociologically relevant and have been intensely covered in course lectures and readings. With the extensive minority groups presented throughout the film; elements of prejudice, discrimination, deviance, patterns of accommodation, as well as strain theory are evident. The film offers an array of conflict in four characters especially that will be discussed here. â€Å"Anthony† and â€Å"Peter Waters† two African-American men, â€Å"Farhad† a Persian shop owner, and â€Å"Officer John Ryan† a white prejudiced policeman all display interesting characteristics of the theories mentioned above. Analysis: Anthony and Peter both commit criminal acts and fit well into the innovation as part of deviance model. They do not believe that they can conform and do not see other opportunities in the largely white areas in which they steal cars, admitting that they want to steal from whites, as they perceive whites to have privilege and hostility toward them. Peter is shot while Anthony attempts to redeem himself by helping another minority group, who he sees to be exploited due to their minority status. Officer Ryan is a prejudiced policeman, who feels the trickle down effect of strain theory. Due to the loss of his father’s job due to affirmative action policies and the subsequent issues with him receiving improper healthcare, this officer turns his frustration to blacks as a whole due to the strain of his father’s condition. Finally, Farhad exhibits the patterns of accommodation, as he attempts to assimilate to the United States, he distrusts others in the different minority groups and feels the shame of being called a terrorist. He retaliates by attempting to kill a Mexican-American, as his level of conflict with other groups is extremely high. Self-reflection: This film is very effective in showing how theories can be applied to actual events that occur in the lives of minorities and those with white privilege. The complex interactions between the different groups highlight much of what conflict theory proposes and elements of structural functionalism, as well. I would highly recommend this movie to any sociology student or others, who have an interest in how groups in society function and deal with one another on a daily basis.

What is cross cultural marketing?

What is cross cultural marketing? INTRODUCTION: CROSS CULTURAL MARKETING: Cross cultural marketing is a marketing done with two or more different cultures i.e. it is done internationally on a personal level, which means when planning marketing campaigns and media cultural differences are taken into consideration, understanding the need for maintaining the balance between Globalization and Localization and last but not the least Implementation of the strategies that are required to respect the differences while unifying of brand messages are taken into consideration. Cross Cultural Marketing is a research that takes place across the cultural groups or nations. Due to Globalization and International marketing, Cross Cultural Marketing has become very important. The nature of the Research is also becoming highly diverse. According to International view, to determine the degrees of adaption, competitive advantage and attractiveness of the markets the information of marked is used. GREET HOFSTEDE THEORY: Greet Hofstedes Cultural Theory has described National Cultures. This research was firstly conducted between 64 countries to identify the national culture differences across subsidiaries of multinational firms (IBM). There were many other research conducted such as: elites of 19 countries, studies of students of 23 countries, up-market consumers of 15 countries and commercial airline pilots in 23 countries. All the above studies together identified four cultural dimensions and the fifth one was added later on. The nature of all the managerial skills depends specifically on their culture. It is not necessary that a management philosophy or technique is going to be same as another. Culture is said to be a conflict source rather than synergy and cultural difference can be disastrous and often nuisance at its best level. There are Five Cultural Dimensions in Hofstede Cultural Dimensions, they are: Power Distance Index(PDI) Individualism(IDV) Masculinity(MAS) Uncertainty Avoidance Index(UAI) Long Term Orientation(LTO) 1) Power Distance Index: It is an extent to which the members who are less powerful in the organisation think that the distributions of the power amongst them are unequal. It defines inequality but it is defined from below and not from above (more vs. less). It says that the level of inequality in society is advised by the followers as much as by the leaders. The power on Inequality are of course includes in the extremely facts of any society. The awareness of societal inequality is there in anybody having some International experience, but some of them are more unequal than others. 2) Individualism: Individualism is a degree in which ‘Individualism is on one side vs. the opposite side ‘collectivism; on the individualistic side individual are collected into groups and we can find the societies in which the co operation between the individuals are loose, everyone is for himself/herself and his/her family. On the other hand Collectivism, we can find the societies in which Individuals are in groups but having great co operation amongst them, these families include grandparents, uncles and aunties, which protect them in exchanging unquestioning loyalties. This dimension is addressed to all the societies of the world and is extremely fundamental. 3) Masculinity: Masculinity has femininity on its opposite side (Masculinity vs. Femininity). Another fundamental issue on any society in the world is the distribution of roles between the genders of the society. According to IBM studies, the value of mens differing more than the value of womans in the society. The value of mens from one country to another containing the dimensions are assertive, competitive and maximal to the value of the women on one side to modest, caring and similar to the value of womens on the other hand. The assertive pole is said to be ‘Masculine. There is a gap between the mens value and womens value in masculine countries as they are competitive and assertive. 4) Uncertainty Avoidance Index: The societies of Uncertainity and ambiguity are tolerated by the ‘Uncertainty avoidance index. It refers to the search of truth by mans. It refers till what extent a culture program is comfortable or uncomfortable to its member in a situation which is unstructured such as surprising, novel and unusual. In the countries avoiding uncertainty peoples are emotional and inner nervous energy motivate them a lot. Countries avoiding uncertainty minimises such situation by applying strict rules and laws, safety and security measures and the opposite countries accepting uncertainty have few rules and are relativist on religious and philosophical level, and avoid their environment to accept emotion. 5) Long term orientation: It has Short term orientation on its opposite side, in this dimention the students of 23 countries were taken into consideration and a study was been done by way of questionnaire framed by Chinese scholar. It was not on the basis of truth. In Long term orientation the values are on the basis of frugality steadfastness and in short term orientation there was traditional respect, fulfilling social obligations. The techniques of Confucius found both the negative and positive v alues of the dimensions. This dimention is also applied on the country without a Confucian heritage. Those who are engaged in International Business, Sometimes it is amazing to know how different peoples behave in other cultures. We Human tend to have a feeling that all the peoples are same, but it is not like that. Therefore if somebody goes to some other country to make decisions and is going to make decisions same like he used to take in his own country, then it is sure that he is going to take some very bad decisions. Hofstedes research gives us some knowledge about other cultures so that if we are going to some other country, we should be more effective   interacting with peoples in that country. If the information of Hofstedes research is applied properly than it should reduce the level of anxiety, concern and frustration. Most importantly this theory will give an Understanding edge which results to more successful results. Apart from all this there are several drawbacks of applying Hofstedes Theory they are: Firstly the individuals of a country are not related to the averages of that country. Even if this model of theory is said to be correct when it is applied to a general population, one has to be aware that all the regions or even individual will not fit in the mould. It can be used as a reference guide to understand the cultural difference of different countries, but not as a law, as it is known that there are always some exceptions to any rule. Secondly, what is the accuracy of the data? The data is collected by the form of Questionnaires and it has its own limitations. In some cultures the content of the questions asked are more important than the context of the questions asked. If the group oriented cultures are taken into considerations than the individual might can answer as if it is addressed to the group in which he or she is. And Thirdly Are the data that has been collected is up to date? As there are many internal and external factors by which the culture of the country change over times. TROMPENAARS THEORY OF CULTURAL DIMENSIONS: Trompenaars theory was invented by a Dutch author named ‘FONS TROMPENAARS. This model was invented to explain the national cultural differences in the organisation and to show that it is a major challenge for international managers to manage this differences in this incongruous world. Trompenaars and Hampden-Turner took ten years to   gather data. Over 15000 managers in 28 countries were sent the questionnaire and 500 usable response was received per country. This helped them to differentiate national cultures. They introduced seven cultural dimensions, they are: Universalism vs. Pluralism Individualism vs. Communitarisnism Specific vs. defuse Affectivity vs. Neutrality Inner direct and outer direct Achieved status vs. Ascribed status Sequential time vs. synchronic time 1) Universalism vs. Particularism: This is based on the question â€Å"Rules are more important or relationships†? A culture assigns the degree of importance either to personal relations or to the law. In universalism peoples think that values, standards and general rules are based on the needs of friends and other relationships and in Particularism friendships and other relations are the terms people think as culture and the rules are on the basis of how peoples are related to each other. 2) Individualism vs. Communitarianism: It is based on the question that â€Å"functions that are done by us are on the basis of groups or Individuals†? This means that the peoples are functioning more as individually or in community. In Individualism, Individual are placed in front of community by the peoples and people think that if the individual is happy or fulfilled then they are happy and fulfilled and they themselves take care of their own. In Communitarianism community is placed in front of Individual, hense it is the responsibility of the individual to act in such a way that serve the society. 3) Specific vs. defuse: It is based on a question that â€Å"how far we get involved†? It shows that the responsibility is assigned specifically or accepted defusely. The elements are analysed individually first and then put together in Specific culture and accordingly the lives of the peoples are divided. People concentrates on hard facts, contracts and standards and in Defuse culture all individual elements are related to each other. The Individual elements are given less importance than the relationships between the elements. 4) Affectivity vs. Neutrality: is based on â€Å"Are we displaying our emotions†? In Affectivity people dont feels to hide their feelings, they prefer to show their emotions and on the other side peoples dont posses to show their feelings and they controls their emotions. 5) Inner direct and outer direct: It is based on â€Å"Are we controlling our environment or we are working with it†? This is a degree in which Individual beleaves that they can control the environment or environment is controlling them. In Inner Direct culture peoples believe that Human can control nature if he/she makes an effort to do that even if it is complex. In Outer direct culture peoples believe to live in Harmony with nature as they have an organic view of nature. 6) Achieved status vs. Ascribed status: It is a degree in which Individuals have to prove themselves to achieve status or it is automatically achieved. Peoples in Achieved status culture believe that they have to accomplish something to get their status and in Ascribed Status culture, peoples believe that they have their status from their birth, gender, wealth or age. 7) Sequential time vs. synchronic time: It is a degree with Individual think in one at a time vs. Individual thinking several things at a time. In a sequential culture people think that time is sequential and the do one thing at a time and in Synchronic culture peoples believe that time is flexible and do several things at a time. (http://www.provenmodels.com/580/seven-dimensions-of-culture/charles-hampden-turnerfons-trompenaars/) COMPARISION OF GREET HOFSTEDE THEORY AND TROMPENAARS THEORY OF CULTURAL DIMENSIONS: Of the seven dimensions of Trompenaars Theory two dimentions of Hofstede Theory are closely reflected. Firstly Trompenaars Communitarianism vs. Individualism value orientation seems to be closely identical to the Individualism value orientation of Hofstede theory and secondly Trompenaars Achieved status vs. Ascribed status appears to be linked with Hofstedes Power Distance Index, If one accepts that Nature has done compromise with Status and not achievement than it shows that it has more willingness to accept power distance. This does not completely matches as Hofstedes power index in not dealing only on how according of status is been done but also how power distance is accorded within the society which is not at all covered by Trompenaars Theory. Trompenaars other dimentions such as Affectivityvs. Neutrality which says that feelings are expressed openly can be compared with Hofstedes Masculinity dimension as it focuses highly on some effects of value dimensions as Trompenaars dimension is not a value aspects but behavioural aspect in itself. The Universalism vs. Particularism which does not trust relationships and is preferring roles can determine meaning as a part of Hofstedes Uncertainty Avoidance Index on one hand and Individualism on the other hand. The Specific vs. defuse dimention of Trompenaars Theory cannot be compared to Hopsteades Theory as there are no links between them. CLASSIFICATION OF THE COUNTRIES ACCORDING TO THEIR RESPECTIVE CONSISTANCY: According to an examination that was done and several countries of the world were taking into consideration, It explains that according to both Hofstedes and Trompenaars Theory   the countries like Japan and India are relatively weaker, while UK, USA and Denmark are relatively Egocentric. There are several other countries such as Greece, Spain and Maxico which are more Egostical according to Trompenaars than Hofstedes theory and the differences cannot be explained wholly. According to Hodgetts and Luthans(2000) they feels that the differences can be due to differ in time frames of both the studies which indicates that change of culture has taken place. On the other hand it indicates that Hofstedes theory is becoming out-dated. Let us take an example of Mexico, its consolidation into Global Economy may be moving away from communitarian value. Cultures does not remains same, they changes as time changes. It is not like todays characterization would be same as it was in 1960s or 70s. The interesting point to note is that the countries such as Hungary and Russia are relatively egoistic despite of their communist past. Trompenaars also extended his research by examine the different cultures according to their nationalities, for this he introduced a new dimension: equality vs. hierarchy, in Hierarchy culture the leader has full authority and is having the best knowledge, this dimension is related with Power Distance dimension of Hofstedes theory. There are some more similarities in both the theories such as: UK and North America are relatively egoistic according to   Trompenaars theory and are relatively low according to the power distance dimension of Hofstedes theory. The countries such as Spain and France are said to be less egalitarian and high in power distance dimension on Hofstedes theory. According to Trompenaars German Culture is hierarchical, but Hofstede says that Germany is relatively low according to power distance. These were some of the countries classified by both the theories according to their respective consistency. (www1.ximb.ac.in//Hofstede%20and%20Trompenaars%20compared) TROMPENAARS DIMENTIONS IN INDIA: Indians believe that they are controlled by the environment, so they strongly accept this point, They are concerned how application of ideas and practices should be done. People in India believe that they are a part of a group, as it is a multicultural country; Indians have respect for their religion and are strongly into family values and traditions. Indians displays their affection neutrally, but they shows assertiveness which is allowed to them. They are always non-violent that is what is thought to them from starting. The size of both Public and Private Spaces are same. The people of India Takes care of their Public spaces as entry to their Public spaces can make entries to their private spaces. Most of the Indians are value ascriptions as they believe in their caste system. Their status title depends on their professional titles, their degrees and age. Friendship is given more importance.

International Business Environment

International Business Environment 1. International business environment Book0)Business mean to busy in an activity, which are related to money almost business have 50% chances of profit and losses.(Morrison, j. 2002)Business is operated in every part of the world. As the business grow. It is looking for new opportunities across the border. International business is the term use for the operation and objective of the organisation that have interest in other countries. For example Tesco, Ford, General Motor, McDonald, Disney, so many other companies. These companies have key interest to standardise their product for general acceptance. The international business becomes more complex. Tie between the different societies and organisations. (Meldrum, D.H) as businesses inter into new market it chances of 50% losses increases. Due to different in economic, political, cultural structure, policies, geography and currencies. These factor decreases profit ratio of international investment. There are no specific criteria to measure such in-stability. Every investor used their own method and measure. Uncertain condition of country make easy for international business to design their own stability criteria. (Considering risk in international business) Business has no idea about the local risk. Its difficult to operate and manage in such condition where the Culture, Social, Economic, Political, and legal structure are not stable. In such cause the international business need to take all the measurement either it`s Commercial, Culture, Social. Political or legal instability before enter into new market or country. 2. International business (McCulloch, C.1999)International business is started as with the formation of first national borders. Greek started such activity before the Christ follow by the British in 1600 when they establish the East India Company throughout the Asian as trading firm. With passage of time international business is started all over the world especially in United State. (Czinkota et al., 1999) The international business brings countries together. It makes the world as global village. It exchanges the ideas, information, service, and capital across the countrys borders. This results in best used of human capital increases employee opportunity. Equal growth of wealth, price stability, availabilities of goods and services to each and every one. It bring new environment of friendship, development, stability, prosperity, innovation and technology in the world. Due to the international business same kind of product are used throughout the world. For example ford, Toyota, Honda, and McDonald, KFC, burg er king, and so many other things which are use worldwide. International business brings globalisation in the production. For example dell computer it different part are produced in different countries, assemble these parts in another and sell it in yet other countries. 3. Definition of international business (Book4) â€Å"The commercial activities crossed national borders. It involved the international movement of good, capital, services, employees and technology; importing and exporting; cross-border transactions in intellectual property (patents, trademarks, know-how, copyright materials, etc) via licensing franchising and management contracts.† Book3 ) â€Å"the transaction done by individual or organisation cross the countries. To satisfied the objective by mean of export, import and foreign direct investment. And it carried out in wholly owned, joint venture, licensing, franchising and management contracts† 4. Problems of international business Book4) International business experiences some difficulties when they operate in other countries. International businesses have to deal under the local rules and regulation. Have to use foreign languages. Difficult to get information about foreign countries. Deal in foreign currency. The exchange rate may be varied. When deal in other countries their culture and social value must be taken in account. The risk factor is high in foreign countries include political, commercial, and financial. Communication and control of international business is difficult. Difficult to absorb the demand of the international market. Most of time is waste in research and survey of the local market trends. 5. Meaning of stability J1) Stability is very important for the human life. Without it there will be no â€Å"culture† no â€Å"organisation† and no â€Å"society†. (dictionary) According to oxford`s dictionary. â€Å"Resistance to change, deterioration or displacement†. Stability is a ship in the sea which maintain its upright position either the condition is. Stability maintain for long period of time and it resist to all the changes that happen in the surrounding. According to Aldous Huxley`s â€Å"the stability is way of life. And life Moto is community, identity and stability.† if we come to the countries stability it has great impact on all walks of life. J4) without the stability the country well be in depression. And their well be no social security, health care, education, defence, infrastructure, law and protective services, low GDP, GNI, AND PPP (Purchasing, Power, and Parity ), price fluctuation, un-stable exchange rate, high rate of taxes, no leadership, no culture values, no innovation, no technology, financial position of the countries will be week, and have no capital market. Such condition is not considerable for the international business. Business development and prosperity are depending on the local and national conditions.bbok1) for example both South and North Korea. South Korea living standard is 10 times bette r then North Korea. GDP of 46.4m compare to 22 m GDP of North Korea. This big different is only because of stability of the both countries. North Korea tries to attract the foreign investment but â€Å"poor infrastructure, un-reliable power supply, poor transportation and unstable military condition† are the big barriers for the foreign investor. On the other hand South Korea has stable political, economic, legal environment, and stable infrastructure. Which cause of attraction for the international business and South Korea main stream business are Daewoo, Hyundai, and LG. These are the internationals brands. 6. Instability of the countries J9)Different business made their own criteria to measure country in-stability but mostly the factor involved in country in-stability is closely related to each other. Political instability Economical instability Cultural instability Legal instability Financial instability Location and neighbourhood 6.1 Political instability Book3)Political stability play an important role in the stability of the country. Due to political stability international business are attracted to invest in the country, despite their location, weather, and natural resources availability. Boo4) politics is define as â€Å"the direction and administration of state† â€Å"government† and â€Å"the control of aggregate social relationship† Bbok5)However, political instability is a great risk for the international business. Usually these are three risks. Ownership risk, in some causes the ownership of the international business is shifted to the host country without any compensation to international business through confiscation or expropriation. Operation risk, international business faces such situation. Due to the security, change of law and government, terrorism, arm conflict, civil war, tax regulation, and so on. Transfer risk, transfer of money from one country to another, in which the government rules are involved, high exchange rate, and tax on transfer of money. J5)Political instability rise due to continuous change in government, and law, nationalism corruption in the government officer. Example is Pakistan where the government change regularly. this create security risk, inflation and high corruption. Terrorism, internal is external war (arm conflict), kidnapping, example Afghanistan, Pakistan Iraq, and Serra. Jouranl2 according to Gupta (1990) he use ten elements to explain the political in-stabilities. â€Å"Number of political demonstrations† â€Å"Number of riots† â€Å" Number of death (assassinations)† â€Å"Armed attack events† â€Å"Political executions† â€Å"Number of death from political violence† â€Å"Occurrence of successful coups dà ©tat† â€Å"Occurrence of un-successful coups dà ©tat† â€Å"Number of strikes† and â€Å"Nature of government† democracy or dictatorship. Bo5)Political fluctuation has bad impact on international business. In such condition international business before inter into new political environment need to get all information. Need to make such analysis. Government of the country in the political party hand (democracy). Or it power in the hands of one person (dictatorship). The countries have free market or the government control it. Is government encouraging the international business to invest in local market to achieve the economic goals? Who are the customers and competitors of the international business private or public sector? Is Policy making of the country is according to law? Is the change of government the economic policies well change or remains same? B4)Political in-stability affect all kind of business even it home or foreign. To make decision about the future investment in foreign country information about the country political condition are collected from the following sources. Personal visit to country get information from local business. Bank, stock market and international credit control agencies. And from local news. Get information from the country embassy. And from locals who have expert knowledge about the country situation. International chamber of commerce is one of the best sources of information. From the minister of the home country. Get export opinion from the local people who are specialist in a particular field. 6.2 Economic instability Book1)Countries are considered stable if they have high national income. Price stability, high capacity of production of products and services, high employment rates with technological innovation and high investment. And the indicator of the economic growth high rate of GDP affects the high standard of living, heath and capital investment. These factors are very important for international business to invest in such economy. Government and economics are interrelated with each other. If government is stable economy is stable by itself.jour6) Political instability affects the GDP growth of country. It is called â€Å"politicalization of economic growth†. Economic growth is not affected by the nature of the government (democracy or dictatorship). But it is affected by it policy either it`s fiscal or monitory. Develop economy have the following features. High education rate, public health care services, and social benefit are available to each and every one in the country. Economy has high defence system. General public and country assets are secure, no arm conflict and terrorism. For example Pakistan has security problem and internal terrorism due which economy is going down. Developed infrastructure mean of communication, transportation, power supply and the availability of banking and financial structure.( journal 7) For example power supply situation is very bad in Pakistan it have regular break down and not even fulfil the local requirement. Plus the transportation in Pakistan is not proper regulated. Country has appropriate industrial and agriculture development. Developed monitory policy, for example country has price stability, equal distribution of money and money exchange rate is remaining stable. For example Pakistan money exchange rate changes regularly. This increases fluctuation in economy. Economy has high government spending and low tax rates. Jouranl8) economy is effected only when exchange rate not remain stable in international market and government have high tax rates and low spending which increases fluctuation in economy. And inflation is increases in the country. And economic situation is considering in-stable. Book 6) to increase trade between countries economic bloc are establish. For example Europe, North America, South America and Asia pacific areas. Countries in economic bloc have high rate of GNP then the non member countries. Book 7)international business have prier information about the economic situation and make such analysis before investing in the country. Population of the country, power of consumption, income level, balance distribution of money, industrialisation and agricultural activities. GNP rate, rate of growth, GNI rate, price stability, rate of inflation, money exchange rate, government taxes and spending. Infrastructure transportation, communication, mean of power supply, banking and availability of financial intuition. Size of economy and economic system centrally planned economy, mixed economy or market economy. Number and size of competing unit. Balance distribution of business or firm have market monopoly. Life style, shopping pattern, urbanisation, heath and social services, housing environment, law and defence and education level. Sources for international business to get information about local economy is World Bank, IMF, Government publish data, and international economic services. 6.3 Cultural instability Book6) culture can be defined in different ways (Meeds) â€Å"Share patterns of behaviours† (Hofstede) â€Å"Collective mental programming â€Å" Culture is different from nation to nation, because of language, religion, ethic, and behaviours. These have direct effect on life style, education, economic, organisation and political structure, law and regulation. Culture separates the world into different nation and state. Most of conflicts within country barber are arise due to culture difference. This divides country into two parts. For example Pakistan and India separate from each other only due to culture difference. Language is different from country to country. In most countries people used more than one language. Which rise issue of culture different in the same nation. For example Pakistan has more than one language. Which rise race issue in same country. And create economic, political, law and order, unequal distribution of wealth crises in the country. Affect the stability of the country. Book2) From the last one decade religious race is rise in the world. Divide the world into two religions Islam and Christianity. And create terrorist and religious extremist. For example Telenor Denmark mobile company operated in Pakistan last lots business and offices across the country during period of 2005 and 2006 due to religious riots and strikes to protest blasphemous cartoon against Islam was publish in one of Denmark news paper. Country with culture extremist is considered unstable. And most of investor shows lack of confidence in investing such countries. Following analysis international business need to done before invested in such countries. How strong Culture County have. Number of Culture conflict in the country. And their effect one local and international business. Business has information of Religious extremism activity in country. And number of religious strikes and riots. Information about local social, labour and market culture. Number of language in country and racism activity in country. and law and order situation of country. 6.4 Legal instability Book india)Law varies from countries to county. Country law is according to their political and economic situation. And design by Government and society. Law deal all aspects of business either it is contract, employment, tax regulation, property protection, company law, competition, health and safety, environment, human right, product liability, trade mark, patents, nationalization, currency exchange, and foreign currency. Court or judicial system exercises such law in country. In most countries court system is weak, and law change regularly with change in government. Corruptions in system, conflict are settling outside courts. Delay in court decision. Judicial system is not free in work under the supervision of the government. For example Pakistan where judicial system is unstable and government supervise court. This created lots of security problems in country. And it have considerable unfavourable situation for foreign investor. J9)In some causes country law put barrier in way of foreign investor. Country law put restriction on transfer of funds. This creates transfer risk for international business. High tax rates on foreign investment. Restrict export and import policy. Analyses of international business before invest in a country. Business has information about common, civil, public and criminal law. And have idea about country law for foreign investment. How local law protect the intellectual property like trademark, patents, registration and copyright. How the court or judicial system work, court system in country is strong or weak, law have their own freedom or it work under the supervision of government. Business has information about law of data protection and personal details. How health and safety, human right regulation work at the place of work. International business can get such information from sources World bank report, human right organisation, UNO, country financial report, news, and country legal report. 6.5 Financial instability J10) Financial instability slows down development process in the countries. Stock market of the country goes down. Trade decreases and done with considerable high prices. Financial institution is in deficit. Taxes and interest rate are increases. Current account of the country goes in deficit. External borrowings are increases. Federal Reserve of the country decreases. Remittances are goes down. Fiscal position of the country becomes weak. Country cut down the social security and other health care benefit of general public. Cash flow in country slow down. Prices go high and selling decreases. Government spending in country goes down. Country exports are decreases. Unemployment increases, crime rate are high, capital loss and bankruptcies are the result of the financial instability. In such condition there are rear recovery solutions.journal11) Financial instability in country rise due to following reasons Un-proper economic policies monetary, fiscal and exchange rate. Poor risk management of financial intuitions. Weakness of the government intuitions. Wrong measurement of the international financial market. J12 In this situation their are many risk for international business to invest in such country. Where exchange rate is not fixing and fluctuated regularly. It is a real risk for investor. Under and over valuation of the money caused loss to investor. For example currency rate of Pakistan is regularly fluctuated although country foreign policies is very relax to attract the foreign investor but due to financial instability international business are reluctant to invest in Pakistan economy. J13)Sovereign is another risk for international investor. When host country is not able to meet loan obligation. Country is run out of foreign exchange due to financial instability. 6.6 Location and neighbourhood (Jour14)Location and neighbourhood play an important role on the stability of the country. Stability in country and good relationship with their neighbourhood are favourable condition for international business. Countries with same culture, value, ethic and believes, establish a economic bloc where neighbour country share free trade, no restriction of immigration, and they enjoy the same currency. And remove all barriers from trade and they enjoy smooth business with each other. For example the European countries they have free trade agreement. And have one common currency. This brings stability in countries and economic progress as well. If business invest in one of country. Business can cover the market of it neighbouring countries as well. For example Nissan and Toyota establish plant in UK and it covers the whole Europe market. Journal15) On other hand countries in area where situation is not stable. It has effect on other countries. For example Chechnya was in state of war due to Chechen war whole reign was in uncertain condition. It war effect economic and political instability in neighbour countries as well. Similarly Pakistan border are near to Afghanistan and India. Pakistan political and domestic relationship with India is not good and both have many dispute. This creates instability in area. On other part of Pakistan have Afghanistan border. Afghanistan is suffering with terrorist activity in the area. Such terrorist activity are now inter inside of Pakistan area. As the distance increases from the investor country it increases in risk of control and communication problem. It cause delay in business operation. Some causes business not gives quick response to economic and political changes in the area. Due distanced of management control from the host country. 7. Table 1 Instability impact by investment types Direct investment short term financial short term loan long term loan Instabilityprivate sectorprivate sectorto governmentto government Economic High Low Low Moderate Political High Low Moderate High Culture High Low Low Low Legal Moderate High High High Financial High High High High Location High Moderate Low Moderate Table show the impact of instability on type of investment. Journal 9 8. List of unstable countries of the world: Venezuela Pakistan Colombia Indonesia Ecuador Nigeria Ivory coast North Korea Journal 16 9. Conclusion and recommendation The process of location of foreign operation in a new country must be carried out carefully. Firm which aim to invest in foreign country need to make analysis of capital development, economic, political, culture, and legal stability not to make analysis on the risk involved in country. Almost of countries have risk in past. the investment of international firm bring changes in the situation. And country becomes economically stable. The country with risk has no competitor in the area. And with inter of international business it make positive impact. Create more employment, which increases consumption power of people. International business have high rate of profit. As the international business making contribution toward the economy of the country the government of host country give international business some relaxation in law and ensure him all kind of security as business need to do their operation. In order to minimise risk in foreign operation international business need to inter into new county as trader (exporter-importer) or most commonly inter as joint venture with same size local company.

Changing the Tone :: Personal Narrative Writing Papers

Changing the Tone Every piece of writing has a voice, we've already established that. But even in the same piece of writing, the same "speaker" or "voice" may take on different tones, depending on the purpose behind the writing. Sometimes it can make the piece a bit confusing, as if the speaker is distracted. However, I think that using different tones in the same voice makes that voice seem more human, more real, more identifiable. Basically, it makes me like the writing more, even if it is poorly done. After all, when I talk or write to someone, the conversation wanders and emotions change. If the writing does that as well, I feel as if I know a real person. I know that when I write my tone changes as I write, especially if there are other things going on at the time I write. And it always seems as if there is something around to distract me. Especially when there are other people with me, like right now. I wonder why it's so loud. Speakers! He gets so upset over speakers! Sometimes I just don't understand why he continues to buy things like speakers, hi-fi VCRs, and stereo components if they cause him to get mad like this. He says he enjoys adding to his entertainment center, but I find that hard to believe. He gets mad every single time he tries to hook the things up. And then, he thinks I'm the one who is getting upset. Please! In case he hasn't noticed, I don't like to be snapped at for no reason, just because he's mad that everything isn't going perfectly. I can't wait until he's finished! Oh, well, at least he's done moving furniture. Sorry about that. I just got so mad, and since I was writing at the time, let my situation into the paper. It does, however, show what I was saying at first. While I am still the same person I was at the beginning, my tone definitely changed. Yet it doesn't even take a subject change to make the tone change. Even if I continue to write about my boyfriend, who is the guy up there with the electronics addiction, my whole tone could change while I write about him. Because you know that if he is my boyfriend I must like him at least a little. Actually, it's kind of amazing that we're still together.

Modems :: essays research papers

Modems Modems are used to connect two computers over a phone line. Modem is short for Modulator Demodulator. It's a device that converts data from digital computer signals to analog signals that can be sent over a phone line. This is called modulation. The analog signals are then converted back into digital data by the receiving modem. This is called demodulation. A modem is fed digital information, in the form of ones and zeros, from the CPU. The modem then analyzes this information and converts it to analog signals, that can be sent over a phone line. Another modem then receives these signals, converts them back into digital data, and sends the data to the receiving CPU. At connection time, modems send tones to each other to negotiate the fastest mutually supported modulation method that will work over whatever quality line has been established for that call. There are two main differences in the types of modems for PC, internal and external modems. Evolution of Modems In the last 10 years, modem users have gone from data transfer rates of 300bps to 1,200 bps to 2,400 bps to 9,600 bps to 14.4Kbps to 28.8Kbps to, and to 33.6Kbps. Now new modem standards are emerging, reaching speeds of up to 56Kbps. Unlike the 33.6Kbps modems being sold today, 56Kbps is a significant improvement over 28.8Kbps modems. Viewing complex graphics or downloading sound files improves significantly with 56Kbps. The modem experts keep telling us that we are about maxed out. For instance when the 28.8 modems where first introduced they said that we've reached our maximum speed, and the same thing was said about the 33.6 and now again for the 56K, but how true is this? The experts say that the next major improvement will have to come from the telephone companies, when they start laying down fibber-optic cables so we can have integrated services digital network (ISDN) . The thing that makes digital modems better than analog is because with analog modem transmission errors are very frequent which results in your modem freezing or just freaking out. These errors are caused mainly by some kind of noise on the line due to lightning storms, sunspots, and other fascinating electromagnetic phenomena, noise occurs anywhere on the line between your PC and the computer you're communicating with 2,000 miles away. Even if line noise is minimal, most modems will automatically reduce it's speed to avoid introducing data errors. Baud vs bps While taking about modems, the transmission speed is the source of a lot of confusion. The root of the problem is the fact that the terms "baud" and

Accounting Career Paper Essay

There are many jobs that require accounting. Yet, accounting has never been thought of as interesting. Accounting is instead thought of as being tedious and even boring. However, what people may not know is that FBI agents must develop a readiness for accounting to be able to fundamentally do their jobs properly. In addition to accounting, there are many requirements, tests, and processes you must go through to become an FBI agent, which makes it a difficult but worthwhile job nonetheless. FBI agents provide protection to society and also investigate into many different cases, many cases require forensic accountants to analyze and report their findings on specific things such as bank accounts and other information. In order to become an FBI agent, there are many requirements that must be fulfilled. To start, one must have a 4 year degree from a college or university â€Å"accredited by one of the regional or national institutional associations recognized by the United States Secretary of Education† (FBI) and be a United States citizen. There is also an age requirement to become an agent. One must be at least 23 years old, but younger than the age of 37. This is due to the physical strains of the profession. The strains of the tasks given to FBI agents make it harder as one continues to age to work in the field. FBI agents are typically paid around 60,000 annually. If agents are relocated to a high cost area they are given a one time extra bonus of 22,000 dollars. See more:  The Story of an Hour Literary Analysis Essay In addition to the requirements, there are many tests that you must pass in order to become an FBI agent. There are many steps that need to be fulfilled in order to apply to become an FBI agent. First you must apply online or at a designated FBI branch office. Once you are accepted, you must take a couple of tests during the application process before you can become an FBI agent. The tests are comprised of two phases. The first phase test evaluates and determines if you have the critical skills and abilities that are required to perform and handle tasks of an FBI agent. The second phase test requires you to be interviewed by a panel of three special agents to determine if you have the necessary skills in order to handle certain situations and be able to communicate as well. There are many other factors that must be looked into when special agents look at applicants, such as the  honesty and integrity of the applicant. There is also a writing portion that evaluates your writing skil ls and ability to judge and record certain situations in detail. The next test that you must take is the physical portion of the test. You must adhere to the given instructions and also complete a number of physical exercises. In addition to the tests you are required to have a extensive background check done and medical examinations. Before being accepted as an FBI agent you are to â€Å"begin your career at the FBI Academy in Quantico, Virginia for approximately 21 weeks of intensive training at one of the world’s finest law enforcement training facilities. During their time at the FBI Academy, trainees live on-campus and participate in a broad range of training activities.† (FBI.gov) With all the tests and requirements in place, It may not seem as if FBI agents require accounting in the field. But one of the five areas you must qualify for in order to be accepted into a special agent position is accounting. A type of accounting that is most commonly used in an investigation is forensic accounting. Forensic accounting â€Å"is a branch of accounting that not only requires knowledge of accounting and auditing principles but also the ability to work on investigation and litigation teams to look into illegal financial activity and assist in litigation processes.† (Gina L.). Forensic accounting is increasing in demand currently due to the recent increase of crime. This can be seen in the job postings for forensic accounting (http://www.careerbuilder.com/JobSeeker/Jobs/JobDetails.aspxAPath=2.21.0.0.0&job_did=JHP5SX6X761WT9HGW6N&IPat) (http://www.careerbuilder.com/JobSeeker/Jobs/JobDetails.aspxAPath=2.21.0.0.0&job_did=JHV3FS793TPJFYHX382&IPath=JRKV0I) To become a Forensic Accountant you must have a bachelor’s degree in accounting or a related subject. Most graduates who earn a graduate certificate or master’s degree in forensic accounting can drastically increase their employment and salary outcome. Forensic accountants are also usually required to have their Certified Public Accountant (CPA). They can also become Certified Fraud Examiners or Certified Forensic Accountants after two years of experience.