((((MYCROLAB)))) group project Report in subject of NEW PRODUCT Essay

((((MYCROLAB)))) group project Report in subject of NEW PRODUCT MAMAGEMENT - Essay Example Market segmentation, targeting and positioning are the three major approaches which are applied by the marketing departments in their endeavors to achieve organizational goals. Of the three steps mentioned above segmentation is the first one to take on. In market segmentation, segment variables are identified and the market is segmented accordingly. The segmentation allows the company to focus on the demands of the targeted market and fulfill its demands. It seeks to differentiate between various segments of a market and addresses to the needs and requirements of each market. In this way they make products and introduce services which are specifically meant for that particular segment of the market only. There are various approaches that can be applied in the segmentation of market. Company would thus, be able to create its identity in all its major market segments. Different marketing and communication strategies could be applied for each segment keeping in mind, the respective cons umers in the segments. (Dickensin, 1987) The market is segmented according to the Business market segmentation. The segmentation has been done according to the following bases: geographic segmentation, customer type and buying behavior. Geographic segmentation gives us secondary segment which includes metropolitan and regional hospitals. Customer types and buying behavior usage patterns blend together to give us the primary segment -who are medical practitioners and local GPs- and tertiary segment including medical charities and humanitarian support organizations. In market segmentation, we have grouped customers and non-customers with similar characteristics. These characteristics include similar economic, biographic and usage behavior. Biographics are considered because Mycrolab is a health related diagnostic system and is mostly used by people in health services or people with health issues or health conscious. Moreover product related segmentation have also

Investigating and Analyzing Opportunities and challenges of implementing ERP solution projects in SMBs Essay Example for Free

Investigating and Analyzing Opportunities and challenges of implementing ERP solution projects in SMBs Essay To accomplish research objectives, the mixed method approach to research will be used. Both qualitative and quantitative data will be instrumental in investigating and analyzing the opportunities and challenges of implementing ERP solution projects in SMBs. Data will be obtained from primary and secondary data, such as books and scholarly articles about theories and models in ERP planning and implementation, and the findings or outcomes of integrating ERP in SMBs in actual situations from other studies. Key individuals from performing, including ERP solutions integrators, and receiving organizations, such as CEOs in receiving organizations, will also be interviewed to gain qualitative data that will address the research goals. The field study approach will be applied to obtain qualitative and quantitative data. The analysis of the qualitative and quantitative data that will follow the contrastive approach. The number of studies that look into the actual outcomes of ERP solutions is limited and the contrastive approach to analyzing data and perceived outcomes of the study will contribute to empirical knowledge regarding the actual or practical situations that take place when implementing ERP solution projects in running and managing SMBs. The succeeding discussions will provide details on the methods and approaches that will be applied to fulfill the objectives of the research. Research Design Field Study ApproachThe field study approach of qualitative and quantitative research will be used at different stages in the study to gather data and determine the opportunities and challenges of implementing ERP solution projects in SMBs. Scholars emphasized the value of a field study design in a theory-oriented research. Schwab (2005, p. 85) noted that the field study approach is instrumental in testing theories or models. â€Å"Field studies â€Å"are frequently used to test conceptual models with a number of independent variables† (Schwab, 2005, p. 85). One primary objective of the study is to compare and contrast theories in ERP and its integration to SMB business functions and processes to actual practices and outcomes experienced by performing and receiving organizations. The field study approach will be utilized gain qualitative and quantitative data from independent variables that will consist of participants from performing and receiving organizations. The data obtained from the field study will be tested against theories and models discussed in the Literature Review. The field study approach enables the researcher to understand a phenomenon within the actual context or environment in which it occurs through direct observation or interaction with the target population. The purpose of the field study approach is aligned with the objectives of the research. The lack of existing literature is one reason that prompted the study. Gaining practical data from performing and receiving organizations through the field study approach will validate and evaluate the reliability of existing literature about the process and outcomes of ERP implementation in SMBs. Qualitative data will be obtained by conducting interviews with receiving and performing organizations. The number of participants from receiving and performing organizations will be equally divided. Five participants from receiving organizations (CEOs, CIOs, and IT managers) and five participants from performing organizations (project managers or ERP solutions integrators) will be selected as the sample population based on the availability of the participants. The formal interviews will be guided by specific themes that are aligned with the objectives of the study to address research questions. The formal interview with participants from performing organizations, including ERP solutions integrators or project managers will focus on three key areas: project controlling, project monitoring, and risk management. The interview questions will be designed to draw the practices or strategies implemented by the participants in order to control or monitor ERP projects in SMBs and techniques in risk management to prevent or address potential risks accordingly. The perceived outcomes of project managers and ERP solutions integrators will also be determined and evaluated based on the actual outcomes of ERP projects in SMBs. The quantitative data will also be obtained from performing organizations. The success of project planning, management and implementation of ERP project integrators may be determined by evaluating the various areas in ERP implementation. The project plans that were completed will be the primary source for quantitative data. The project plans and the actual outcomes of implementation will be evaluated to determine how successful ERP integrators were in accomplishing project plans for client SMBs. Information from receiving organizations will also be instrumental in validating the success of ERP project solutions and in determining the opportunities and challenges that commonly occur during the implementation process. The formal interviews with participants from the receiving organizations will focus on four areas: change management opportunities upon implementation of ERP projects, the challenges that arise during ERP implementation, the quality of the implemented solution or its alignment to the goals of the receiving organization, and the satisfaction of the receiving organization throughout the project life span. The responses from the receiving organizations will determine whether ERP project solutions implemented by performing organizations opened up opportunities for growth and development in the former and identify accompanying challenges in ERP implementation that other SMBs should be prepared for when adopting ERP in business operations. The primary data will be obtained through the field study approach. The secondary data that will primarily be used in writing the Literature Review will be obtained from the Body of Knowledge PMI, Prince2 Body of Knowledge, and professional journal works. The various theories and models in ERP implementation and how the process is integrated to SMB business practices will be the focus of research to obtained secondary data. The PMI and Prince2 will serve as the basis or standard of evaluating the efficiency and success of ERP project plans implemented in receiving organizations.

Plea Bargains and Mandatory Sentencing Essay -- essays research papers

Plea Bargains and Mandatory Sentencing I would like to take this time to explain my position on Plea Bargains and Mandatory Sentencing. I will show both pros and cons for each topic, as well as give you my personal brief on which one I support. There are two types of plea bargains : The first one is a charge bargain. When the prosecutor allows a defendant to "plead guilty to a lesser charge†, or to only some of the charges that have been filed against him. For example, a defendant charged with burglary may be offered the opportunity to plead guilty to "attempted burglary". A defendant charged with Drunk Driving and Driving with License Suspended may be offered the opportunity to plead guilty to just the drunk driving charge. The second plea bargain is when a defendant is told in advance what his sentence will be if he pleads guilty. This can help a prosecutor obtain a conviction if, for example, a defendant is facing serious charges and is afraid of being hit with the "maximum" sentence. Typically, sentence bargains can only be granted if they are approved by the trial judge. Many jurisdictions severely limit sentence bargaining. Sentence bargaining sometimes occurs in high profile cases where the prosecutor does not want to reduce the charges against the defendant, usually for fear of how the newspapers will react. A sentence bargain may allow the prosecutor to obtain a conviction to the most serious charge, while assuring the defendant of an a...

American Dream- the Epic of America

I believe the American Dream is belief in the freedom that allows all citizens and residents of the United States to achieve their goals in life through hard work. Today, it often refers to one's material prosperity, which is dependent upon one's abilities and work ethic, and not on a rigid class structure. As James Truslow Adams states in his book The Epic of America which was written in 1931: â€Å"The American Dream is â€Å"that dream of a land in which life should be better and richer and fuller for everyone, with opportunity for each according to ability or achievement.It is a difficult dream for the European upper classes to interpret adequately, and too many of us ourselves have grown weary and mistrustful of it. It is not a dream of motor cars and high wages merely, but a dream of social order in which each man and each woman shall be able to attain to the fullest stature of which they are innately capable, and be recognized by others for what they are, regardless of the f ortuitous circumstances of birth or position. For some people, it is the opportunity to achieve greater material prosperity than was possible in their countries of origin. For others it is the opportunity for their children to grow up and receive an education and its consequent career opportunities. It is the opportunity to make individual choices without the restrictions of class, caste, religion, race, or ethnic group. For others in this the dream of choice and flexibility, that is the ability to wake up in the morning and decide to drive, cycle or take public transportation to work.Some say that the American Dream has become the pursuit of material prosperity – that people work more hours to get bigger cars, fancier homes, the fruits of prosperity for their families – but have less time to enjoy their prosperity. Others say that the American Dream is beyond the grasp of the working poor who must work two jobs to insure their family’s survival. Yet others look toward a new American Dream with less focus on financial gain and more emphasis on living a simple, fulfilling life.Thomas Wolfe said, â€Å"†¦to every man, regardless of his birth, his shining, golden opportunity †¦. the right to live, to work, to be himself, and to become whatever thing his manhood and his vision can combine to make him. â€Å". Is this your American dream? I believe most of you will say yes because that is my dream also. Ultimately, most Americans would like to achieve the American Dream of financial independence. Yet it is the means to achieving it that are essential to the nation's ethical foundations.It seems that many Americans covet the easy road to the Dream and in the process undercut the core values that established the Dream in the first place. Equally culpable are the big businesses that capitalize on the quest for the Dream. In an ironic sense, such businesses are fulfilling the Dream for themselves while dangling the possibility of the Dr eam over the heads of the public. There can be little doubt that the producers of the millionaire games shows, the state lotteries, and lawyers are getting rich on other people's yearning for the American Dream.

How effectively did the Soviet Union control Eastern Europe from 1945 to 1968?

In 1945, it was very important that Stalin gained control over his sphere of influence; WW2 had come to an end, and the future of the Soviet Union was at an unstable point. From 1945-8 Stalin used a series of ‘salami' tactics to gain control over the Eastern European countries. This would involve setting up communist parties within a country, winning a coalition government, and ultimately, taking over to run a full communist regime. This was effective in the sense that Stalin, in the space of three years, was able to takeover seven different countries. However, out of these, only one country – Albania – allowed the takeover without any opposition, the other countries gave more of a struggle. There was obviously some backlash against Stalin's actions, as they did not run smoothly, and this is why he probably had to use more severe tactics when trying to take control over Eastern Europe. In Bulgaria (1945), Stalin had all opposing party members executed, and was only then able to take full control. After this, Stalin had no problems gaining power over such countries – without further opposition, as the same techniques were used in Poland and Czechoslovakia two to three years later. This shows that Stalin did not want to give way to chance, seeing what would happen in each country gradually, by using the minimum force needed. He wanted to be sure of total control, and therefore used the necessary tactics to succeed – it appears that the most extreme were the most effective. Stalin was able to keep such a tight ‘following' due to the fear and propaganda that followed his infamous Red army. He had placed them within his sphere as a warning to the people. If they opposed, they would be dealt with by the Red Army through means of ‘re-education'. They kept an eye over the people, and crushed any sort of uprising. This would have been a deterrent enough for anybody looking to rebel against communism. This proved to be effective as there are no real incidences where the Red army have been called in to sort out a situation (apart from in Hungary and Czechoslovakia, but that was under different circumstances). When Stalin saw the lure of the Marshall Plan, he definitely felt under pressure to counteract this – coming up with Comecon 1949. This shows he was desperate, as firstly, this goes against communist views, as the idea was to send money to communist countries to aid them in their economic process. This was a bribe, nonetheless; but it worked. No countries already within the control of the Soviet Union left the sphere – if they were tempted by money, they could still have it, and Stalin would still have control. They only probably stayed with Stalin out of the fear of the consequences, and therefore this tactic was successful due to previous attempts of control, mainly because of the Red Army. Stalin finally dies in 1953, and Khrushchev takes over. He introduces a new relaxed policy, and looks to ‘de-Stalinise' Eastern Europe, hoping to promote better relations with the West. Subsequently, other countries within the sphere wanted a more liberal government, and started to rebel. This shows that Stalin himself, along with his attitude and thinking, was an effective way to keep control over Eastern Europe. he was not a liberal man, he insinuated fear and death throughout the people, who dared not oppose. Now that there is a more liberal leader in office, the people feel this is the opportunity they need to express their feelings. What Khrushchev may have done wrong, was to initiate an ‘instant' change, which could not be done on a large scale in regards to the whole of Eastern Europe at one given time. Stalin was effective in what he did, as he used gradual changes to implant his policy. 1953 also saw riots in Czechoslovakia, where people where burning Soviet flags and demolishing Stalin statues – this was an obvious attack on Soviet power. However, the riots were quickly put down by the Red army, but the consequences were not great ones, and therefore encouraged strikes in East Germany to occur. East Germans aired their grievances about wage cuts, but the Red army was called in to crush all uprising. 400 people were killed; Khrushchev was reverting back to Stalin's old methods, however people were not put off, as there are further problems in Hungary in 1956. Does this mean that the Red Army were no longer feared, or was there a change in attitude from the people? A level of both, most likely, but why? This leads back to Stalin and fear that he as an individual imposed on the countries. Khrushchev did not have that same effect, and from then on, people were more open to oppose him, knowing they could probably get away with a lot more. There was also a problem with East Germany, and how the collapse of it could have been crucial, in terms of ‘winning' the Cold War. Germany had been one of many significant factors in the Cold War, and a collapse in Germany would mean a collapse in Soviet power if the West were to reclaim it. This might have been a short term cause for the Warsaw Pact in 1955 – the Soviet's version of NATO – this not only gained support against the West, but also helped to unite a dividing sphere. This does not prove to be of any worth (at this time) as in the following year, Hungary has a revolution. There main aim was to get rid of Rakosi – a mini Stalin – through mass demonstrations, which later turned into street fighting. Oddly, Khrushchev introduces Nagy as the new leader of Hungary, instead of sending in the Red army. Was it now that he realised that the Red army did not have so much of an effect that it used to? This is the first time compromising had been used, but quickly backfired. Riots continued, and Nagy had declared Hungary would be leaving the Warsaw Pact. The S.U. was looking at losing control over one country, and sure enough, others would follow. The Soviets again, reverted back to trusted methods, calling in the Red Army to crush all uprising – killing Nagy in the process. The exact same happened with Czechoslovakia in 1968. It now seems that from 1945-68, there were times when the Soviet had complete control over Eastern Europe, and others, quite the opposite. Stalin had realised that in order to have control, he would have to use extreme tactics – the fear of the Red Army, propaganda etc. He also knew that with complete control, there was no edge way for choice or compromise with the people. This is where Khrushchev went wrong, expecting to have complete control when he gave individual countries more power. Knowing of such a relaxed attitude, the people then took advantage of this, and were no longer scared of the repercussions, as there is uprising after uprising under Khrushchev's rule. By the mid-50's effective control is on its way to becoming highly non-existent.

Understand and Prevent Memory Leaks in Delphi

Understand and Prevent Memory Leaks in Delphi Delphis support for object-oriented programming is rich and powerful. Classes and objects allow for modular code programming. Along with more modular and more complex components come more sophisticated and more complex bugs. While developing applications in Delphi is (almost) always fun, there are situations when you feel like the whole world is against you. Whenever you need to use (create) an object in Delphi, you need to free the memory it consumed (once no longer needed). Surely, the try/finally memory guarding blocks can help you prevent memory leaks; its still up to you to safeguard your code. A memory (or resource) leak occurs when the program loses the ability to free the memory it consumes. Repeated memory leaks cause the memory usage of a process to grow without bounds. Memory leaks are a serious problem if you have a code causing memory leak, in an application running 24/7, the application will eat up all the memory available and finally make the machine stop responding. Memory Leaks in Delphi The first step to avoiding memory leaks is to understand how they occur. What follows is a discussion on some common pitfalls and best practices for writing non-leaking Delphi code. In most (simple) Delphi applications, where you use the components (Buttons, Memos, Edits, etc.) you drop on a form (at design time), you do not need to care too much about memory management. Once the component is placed on a form, the form becomes its owner and will free the memory taken by the component once the form is closed (destroyed). Form, as the owner, is responsible for memory deallocation of the components it hosted. In short: components on a form are created and destroyed automatically Examples of Memory Leaks In any non-trivial Delphi application, you will want to instantiate Delphi components at run time. You will, also, have some of your own custom classes. Lets say you have a class TDeveloper that has a method DoProgram. Now, when you need to use the TDeveloper class, you create an instance of the class by calling the Create method (constructor). The Create method allocates memory for a new object and returns a reference to the object. varzarko : TDeveloperbeginzarko : TMyObject.Create;zarko.DoProgram;end; And heres a simple memory leak! Whenever you create an object, you must dispose of the memory it occupied. To free the memory an object allocated, you must call the Free method. To be perfectly sure, you should also use the try / finally block: varzarko : TDeveloperbeginzarko : TMyObject.Create;tryzarko.DoProgram;finallyzarko.Free;end;end; This is an example of safe memory allocation and deallocation code. Some words of warning: If you want to dynamically instantiate a Delphi component and explicitly free it sometime later, always pass nil as the owner. Failure to do so can introduce unnecessary risk, as well as performance and code maintenance problems. Besides creating and destroying objects using the Create and Free methods, you must also be very careful when using external (files, databases, etc) resources.Lets say you need to operate on some text file. In a very simple scenario, where the AssignFile method is used to associate a file on a disk with a file variable when you are finished with the file, you must call CloseFile to free the file handle to begin used. This is where you do not have an explicit call to Free. varF: TextFile;S: string;beginAssignFile(F, c:\somefile.txt) ;tryReadln(F, S) ;finallyCloseFile(F) ;end;end; Another example includes loading external DLLs from your code. Whenever you use LoadLibrary, you must call FreeLibrary: vardllHandle : THandle;begindllHandle : Loadlibrary(MyLibrary.DLL) ;//do something with this DLLif dllHandle 0 then FreeLibrary(dllHandle) ;end; Memory Leaks in .NET? Although with Delphi for .NET the garbage collector (GC) manages most memory tasks, it is possible to have memory leaks in .NET applications. Heres an article discussion GC in Delphi for .NET. How to Fight Against Memory Leaks Besides writing modular memory-safe code, preventing memory leaks can be done by using some of the third-party tools available. Delphi Memory Leak Fix Tools help you catch Delphi application errors such as memory corruption, memory leaks, memory allocation errors, variable initialization errors, variable definition conflicts, pointer errors, and more.

Globalisation and Sustainability essays

Globalisation and Sustainability essays The world was once vast and unknown. Communication was once dreaded as messages would take exceeded amounts of time from one point of destination to the next. Countries would not know of each others affairs for months because the world was large beyond anyones imagination. But as soon as technology reared its head the world rapidly became smaller. It modified everything within its grasp. Communication that once took months could now take seconds. Travelling abroad that would have taken years now took hours. Every institution that fell into this form of globalisation changed. It is obvious to see that governments have also been effected by globalisation in such ways that they can either imitate or contrast with each other. Yet a controversy exists about the issue on the effect of globalisation on governmental power. On one side of the argument globalisation is considered as a force that weakens the power of government whereas others debate the contrary, claiming that there is no effect and power remains constant. Still both arguments fail because of the extremity that they impose. A better argument would be that globalisation does effect government power, not to the point of weakening, but ensuring that no abuse of power occurs unknowingly. Globalisation is simply a tool that enables the actions of governments to be monitored by other countries and world organisations. With comparison of Australian and Canadian environmental policy, it will be clear that actions taken by the government have been influenced (not controlled) by globalisation. The idea of the world becoming a small interactive village is what many would consider the effect of globalisation. Boundaries are no longer an issue and can be crossed with an easy click of the mouse. But globalisation is far from being a new concept that came along with technology. It has existed since humans have had curiosity. The exploring of new lands, the disc...

Tips on Formulating Interesting Essay Topics

Tips on Formulating Interesting Essay Topics Composing academic essays on a regular basis is definitely demanding for students especially on conjuring ideas on the main subject of their paper. Essay topics are fundamentals of the writing process because a definite topic would bring you to the next step of your assignment that is the research stage. With the hectic school schedules of students at present, it is most likely that squeezing their brains to bring forth excellent and interesting topics would almost be an impossible task for them and at times students resort to copying essays of other writers. Here are some suggestions on how to formulate good topics for your paper:   Ã‚  Ã‚   Read a variety of books and articles. From here, you can get ideas for your paper from literature topics to current issues. For literature topics, you can choose among poems, short stories, plays, and other literary works. The usual subjects of interest in literature are well-known writings and you can come up with essays about an author such as Shakespeare as well as his literary works. Probably the most common papers submitted by students are about Shakespearean literature.   Ã‚  Ã‚   You may also opt to write about your interests as well as your personal experiences. Personal experience essays entail less or no research works to perform since you will be writing based on your knowledge. Writing this king of essay would also be less demanding on the vocabulary because your tone should be more of a casual tone. Additionally, papers about your own experiences can be completed trouble-free because your thoughts will continuously flow into writing.   Ã‚  Ã‚   Current issues and recurring social issues are also sources of inspiration for your paper. These controversial and newest issues can be easily researched since a lot of information is available within reach. Information for this kind of topics can be obtained from newspapers, credible internet sites as well as from the reliable television programs. Recurring social issues are excellent topics for sociology essays while current issues may vary from health concerns, political subjects, and other new issues of public interest.   Ã‚  Ã‚   Search and read essays that may help you conceptualize the contents for your paper. However, keep in mind that you must avoid copying the exact contents of these essays because you would be plagiarizing the writings of another writer. Consulting other essays should be intended for reference use only to stimulate ideas for your own paper. The contents of these essays must not be lifted and placed on your paper; remember that these writers had labored for these papers and uploaded them online with the purpose of inspiring other writers to create equally admirable papers and not to encourage plagiarism. Formulating essay topics for your paper will not be too difficult by considering these suggestions and will give you a head start on accomplishing your paper on time. Students can also seek assistance from websites offering essay-writing services by professional writers on the internet to help them in deciding on a topic or give them a hand to start writing their paper.

Retailing Fast Food Industry Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 5250 words

Retailing Fast Food Industry - Essay Example Fast-Food Industry, Encyclopedia Article, 2007 In 1950 expansion of street network and motor industry exhibited transformation in standard of living to balance it with food provision and first ham burger companies' projected this change of life style. Subsequently, increased mobility and modern way of living gave importance to work and women work force sprouted into power. Thus there was no time left for women to prepare food at home. Money was spent in buying fast food meals instead, as women could not find sufficient time to cook at home, they preferred buying it. As nature and scope of business changed so did fast food industry. It went through recognizable transformation in the last decades. Presentation and preparation of food was linked with technological improvements which enhanced the preservation of uncooked and precooked food. For example introduction of microwave helped prepare food quickly. Presentation and preparation of food transformed with the influence of technological and electrical appliances. Thus the use of cutlery and crockery was replaced by modernized concept of "eat with your fingers ". Another technological influence over the fast food customers was packaging. This trend of packaging allowed disposal of material which was made of plastic, cardboard, and polymers. This paved a channel for uniformity of expectations to ignite. Undoubtedly, Presentation of food and variables became fundamentals of traditional restauranteuring. Schlosser, 2001. Richardson, Aguiar, 2004 pg1 According to Rault -Wack and Bricas 2002 cultural and collective identities can be formulated through the medium of food and its impact on ones lives. Names can be associated with particular products and service to crave corporate identity through symbolism. Primarily brand association and identification targets evolution and consolidation of strong corporate identities. In the UK American hegemony in presentation and preparation of food formulates a model of cultural and collective identity. This ideal provides consumers with uniformity and repeated experience. Richardson, Aguiar, 2004 pg1 Credit of the standardized chain-owned fast-food concept goes to the American subsequent innovations which improved the efficiency of their functioning, leading to their efflorescence through franchising. Emergence of standardized chain can be traced to White Castle Company and the first store opened by Walter Anderson and Edgar Ingram in 1921. Fast-Food Industry, Encyclopedia Article, 2007 Food industry is associated with provision of food in restaurants, outlets or in packed form being available to the customer in the shop or at home in packed shape. It is linked with hotel and catering industry. Fast food retail implies the sale of the end product or completed project with four generic characteristics. Generic quality of fast food puts hamburgers, fish and chips, scooped ice cream, kebabs, fried and broiled chicken, chips or French fries, pizza, Chinese and Indian takeaway food, sandwiches, and drinks and food products into one category. Traditional retail outlets can be seen

Ethics of Online Learning with Pros & Cons Research Paper

Ethics of Online Learning with Pros & Cons - Research Paper Example Online education refers to a system of education whereby the learner is autonomous in learning and is separated from the instructor by time and space. The history of online education stems from the growth of modern communication technologies such as the internet that have enabled the students to learn at their pace (Bill & Mary, 2007, p 122). The topic is important since online education presents certain ethical challenges that may hinder the quality of education. The topic is essential in my career as a mathematics teacher since students expect educational content that will enable them meet their learning objectives (Bill & Mary, 2007, p126). In addition, learners need more explanation on complex mathematical models and techniques in order to effectively solve mathematical problems (Browne, 2010, p 247). Accordingly, skills in mathematics improve the cognitive and analytical capabilities of the learner thus leading to succeed in the workplace. The topic interests me because numerous multinational companies have complained about the low analytical and mathematical skills of graduates in the labor market. Accordingly, the education policies must promote equity of access, quality and diversity of choice of the mode of study (Bill & Mary, 2007, p 135). ... It is also referred as e-learning, web-based learning and computer-based learning due to the use of web technologies and computing in delivering knowledge and skills to the learners (Smith, 1996, p 25). It entails the use of telecommunication technology and computing in delivering and receiving of the course content materials. This type of education relies on videoconferencing and internet in ensuring that students receive the digital content (Browne, 2010, p 250). Course materials can be provided through different online medium such as e-mails, bulletin, online videos, discussion forums and chat rooms. Online learning can take place in the workplace, home, online access points or at a public library. For the past few years, the number of online learners has grown substantially that traditional higher education enrollment due to the high internet access and flexibility of online learning. Since 2003, online enrollments have grown by more than 400 percent. According to latest statisti cs, about 6.7 million students are enrolled to a least one online course in the United States. About 32 percent of the US higher education students have participated in online education while 65 percent of the higher education institutions have implemented online learning programs (Browne, 2010, p 257). Accordingly, the 21 percent annual growth in online learning enrollments has by far exceed the just 2 percent growth in traditional classroom enrollments in higher education (Haughey, 2007, p 141). About two-thirds of higher education institutions regard online learning as part of their long-term strategy in increasing the access, flexibility and quality of education. Despite the ethical challenges, about 70 percent of the educators rate online education outcomes either

The Worlds Thirst Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

The Worlds Thirst - Essay Example Doing this entails the use of different means, namely, the ethos, logos, and pathos. However, new products have no established credibility, thus they cannot rely on ethos unless they would convince a well-known personality such as Pres. Barack Obama or Sec. Hillary Clinton to endorse the new product. Therefore, they would attract the attention of the consumers, making use of either logos or pathos or both. Noting the serious problem of death in Africa, â€Å"Lmn† captivates the audience by appealing first to their logos. The setting of the advertisement is a perfect choice. It denotes the remarkable dearth of potable water all over the world, especially in Africa. In the opening scene, the sight of two African men under the blazing safari sun instantly suggests what the commercial is all about, the answer to the need for water or drink. Anyone who would see the advertisement will surely be reminded of the problem that haunts not only Africa but even other parts of the world. The lack of water as shown in the scenes challenges the audience to think of an alternative way to quench thirst but the setting itself limits the choice and leads them back to the setting. The last part of the segment where the Lmn drink appears connotes that one can find Lmn even in the most difficult place such as Africa. That part also suggests the global presence of the manufacturer. The use of logos is also effective in relaying the message that one does not have to do much effort in finding a drink. The technique used was quite ordinary, thus making the point clear. First, it gives propositions then leads to a sound conclusion at the end. In the first part of each commercial segment, the two characters look terribly thirsty. Then, they would attempt to look for a drink and find a way but still fail at the end despite serious troubles.  

Automotive Production Levels Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Automotive Production Levels - Research Paper Example It is price which either actually exists in market or market is moving towards it assuming no market impediments or government policies exist to prevent equilibrium to be reached. At equilibrium price, both forces do not have any tendency to change, provided all other things remain same (Abel and Bernanke, 2005). If all the conditions of free market are met, then GM should have been able fetch sales of 2478001 units of vehicles in second quarter. If compared this figure with its last two quarter units sold, there exits a gap of 87000 vehicles in all. Price elasticity of demand is a quantitative measure (coefficient) showing percentage change in the quantity demanded with respect to percentage change in price (Leamer, 2009). Price elasticity for second quarter of 2012 for GM motor is – 0.95. Negative coefficient of price elasticity shows negative relation of price and demand. Categorization is made based on where the elasticity coefficient lies from 0 to 1. Price elasticity of GM being -0.95 refers to inelastic demand. It refers; only large proportionate change in price can bring small proportionate change in demand which results in steeper demand curve. This kind of elasticity is usually for products that are considered necessities and importance of vehicle has no question in every aspect from business to personal lives. Since it has inelastic demand and there lies a gap between equilibrium price and average unit price of about $ 4000.00 i.e. 19,558 - 15,527 respectively, management can increase profitability by increasing it price that will finally benefit its total revenue which is going negative. If calculated elasticity is considered to be of another brand say A than comparison would guide the future strategy. For instance, if competitor’s brand A increases prices by the differential discussed in previous question, then there is little chance that its customers would switch to ours due to inelastic demand.

Cineplex Entertainment - The Loyalty Program Case Study

Cineplex Entertainment - The Loyalty Program - Case Study Example The essay aims to outline the recommendations of Sarah Lewthwaite, the market director for the Cineplex Entertainment, to the committee of senior executives. The presentation contains persuasive arguments regarding loyalty program development campaign, considering the movie industry, which is having inconsistent revenues each year. Cineplex entertainment was founded in 1979 as a small chain of movie theaters. In 2005 Cineplex acquired its largest supplier and become the Canada’s largest film exhibiter. The market share of Cineplex after that acquisition jumped up to 40 million visits of customer per day. Cineplex also started giving value added services to its customer like food at branded concession counters, arcade games, etc. In the same year they also expanded their strategies and entered into new markets which generated customer traffic and boosted their revenue per day. Although the revenue appreciated a lot in the year 2005 compared to the previous years but cost of operation got high as well which shrined the net income of the company. Cineplex Entertainment had issued Elite cards to the customer which offered them rewards like free movie viewing after they accumulate a certain number of points. Cineplex had no CRM capabilities which could help them in driving customer traffic. According to the survey in 2005, 95% respondents wanted to have movie reward offer back. Considering that option for further investment Sarah Lewthwaite gave option of starting a loyalty program to the committee. Cineplex needed a loyalty partner because creating their own data system it would have cost them about $5.5 million in the first year. So they looked went on to look for a partner. Flight Miles, having 72 percent of Canadian active members, had the top loyalty program in Canada. Flight Miles can give Cineplex an opportunity to get access to their data bank of seven million customers which would certainly help them in targeting their market. Flight Miles program would cost yearly about $5 million and $0.09 on every point issued to the customer. Flight Miles executives offered Cineplex $250,000 to make the deal more attractive. Scotiabank approached to Cineplex as a potential partner for the loyalty program. It is amongst the top five bank of Canada having 6.8 million customers and 950 branches in Canada. The Scotiabank proposed a 50-50 cost sharing and expected naming rights on three theatres. They offered a three card reward strategy as well. The estimated cost portion of Cineplex w as about $3 million in the first year and $1.7 million and $1.9 million in the later years. Sarah Lewthwaite has now three options to look for loyalty program and had to work on them to finally get the best option. She will have to see the benefits as well as the constraints of the three options. She also restructured the reward program. Sarah performed a sensitivity analysis in the concession revenue per guest which might increase by 5 to 15 per cent and also thought of having a nominal one time or annual membership fee of $2 to $5. Sarah Lewthwaite also knew the fact that only 40 per cent of the points earned by the customer in the loyalty program would be redeemed annually. Lewthwaite then drafted reward structure that contained a preliminary list of four options but she was not sure that which option will click in the customer mind. Loyalty program required a data base vendor who could manage the

Human resources paper Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Human resources paper - Essay Example Judgements based on the individual’s status are known to have a negative impact on those individuals with high status. This is because those who perceive themselves to have higher status than others will demand to be treated differently from those with lower status. Reducing status differences among individual is a good and important way to address the issue of individual productivity based on status. I believe more god results can be found as status is seen to have an impact on job satisfaction and procedural fairness at work. Individual’s sensitiveness with regard to approval ratings means that the moment they are made to feel inferior, automatically their self-esteem becomes broken. This mostly have a greater effect on those who posses high value status. Thus reducing this phenomenon will help cushion them in the event of them being made to feel less deserving (Lyndah et al, 2009). Personality problems too can arise when high status individuals too feel badly treated- like getting angrier or not engaging in future associations with those persons who treated them unfairly. In an exclusive study, we conducted on salespersons of electronics’ shop, we asked them how they feel when their managers and supervisors treated them according to jobs. Many said they felt mistreated while others said they felt greatly undermined more than their colleagues who had higher status than they did. This in essence showed the disparities that occur when there is an acute difference in terms of status. While it has been showed by other similar studies and research, the phenomenon is inappropriate. Human resource managers need to identify with this problem and find ways of solving it, because it has a direct impact on employee work morale. It is only fair to work in an equal environment where individuals are of equal status, where

Cineplex Entertainment - The Loyalty Program Case Study

Cineplex Entertainment - The Loyalty Program - Case Study Example The essay aims to outline the recommendations of Sarah Lewthwaite, the market director for the Cineplex Entertainment, to the committee of senior executives. The presentation contains persuasive arguments regarding loyalty program development campaign, considering the movie industry, which is having inconsistent revenues each year. Cineplex entertainment was founded in 1979 as a small chain of movie theaters. In 2005 Cineplex acquired its largest supplier and become the Canada’s largest film exhibiter. The market share of Cineplex after that acquisition jumped up to 40 million visits of customer per day. Cineplex also started giving value added services to its customer like food at branded concession counters, arcade games, etc. In the same year they also expanded their strategies and entered into new markets which generated customer traffic and boosted their revenue per day. Although the revenue appreciated a lot in the year 2005 compared to the previous years but cost of operation got high as well which shrined the net income of the company. Cineplex Entertainment had issued Elite cards to the customer which offered them rewards like free movie viewing after they accumulate a certain number of points. Cineplex had no CRM capabilities which could help them in driving customer traffic. According to the survey in 2005, 95% respondents wanted to have movie reward offer back. Considering that option for further investment Sarah Lewthwaite gave option of starting a loyalty program to the committee. Cineplex needed a loyalty partner because creating their own data system it would have cost them about $5.5 million in the first year. So they looked went on to look for a partner. Flight Miles, having 72 percent of Canadian active members, had the top loyalty program in Canada. Flight Miles can give Cineplex an opportunity to get access to their data bank of seven million customers which would certainly help them in targeting their market. Flight Miles program would cost yearly about $5 million and $0.09 on every point issued to the customer. Flight Miles executives offered Cineplex $250,000 to make the deal more attractive. Scotiabank approached to Cineplex as a potential partner for the loyalty program. It is amongst the top five bank of Canada having 6.8 million customers and 950 branches in Canada. The Scotiabank proposed a 50-50 cost sharing and expected naming rights on three theatres. They offered a three card reward strategy as well. The estimated cost portion of Cineplex w as about $3 million in the first year and $1.7 million and $1.9 million in the later years. Sarah Lewthwaite has now three options to look for loyalty program and had to work on them to finally get the best option. She will have to see the benefits as well as the constraints of the three options. She also restructured the reward program. Sarah performed a sensitivity analysis in the concession revenue per guest which might increase by 5 to 15 per cent and also thought of having a nominal one time or annual membership fee of $2 to $5. Sarah Lewthwaite also knew the fact that only 40 per cent of the points earned by the customer in the loyalty program would be redeemed annually. Lewthwaite then drafted reward structure that contained a preliminary list of four options but she was not sure that which option will click in the customer mind. Loyalty program required a data base vendor who could manage the

Steve Jobs the founder of Apple entrepreneurial venture Research Paper

Steve Jobs the founder of Apple entrepreneurial venture - Research Paper Example In the concluding section, the key aspects that have helped Steve Jobs to achieve success will be reflected. Traditional Entrepreneurial Path An entrepreneur can be described as a person, who undertakes the probable risks that can arise in order to organize, manage and develop a business. In the present day context, an entrepreneur is recognized as a developer or an innovator who generally recognizes as well as seizes opportunities and translates those opportunities to marketable as well as workable ideas (Kuratko, D. F. & Hodgetts, R. M., â€Å"Entrepreneurship: Theory, Process, and Practice†). A traditional entrepreneur intends to make the undertaken business venture successful. The path that generally is followed by an entrepreneur in traditional process of entrepreneurship are converging on an idea of business, preparing a business plan, business formation, growth and exit strategies identification and going public with the business venture (Silver, â€Å"Stages of Entrep reneurship†). In traditional entrepreneurial path, the virtues possessed by an entrepreneur include ingenuity, diligence, ambition, tenacity, perseverance and self-discipline. These virtues guide in the endeavor of building a financially stable as well as successful business venture (Belmont University, â€Å"The Good Entrepreneur†) In the inception stage, the idea of business is conceived which is then analyzed in the traditional path in terms of feasibility of the business idea from financial viewpoint as well as other crucial aspects such as availability of the sources for funding. The sources of funding can be from two aspects i.e. financial bootstrapping method where acceptance of financial resources are avoided from any external source of investor and in the other aspect, traditional sources of finance are sought e.g. venture capital investors, hedge funds, crowd funding to start-up the entrepreneurial venture. The financial aspects such as analysis of ratio, capi tal budgeting which includes payback method, net-present value, internal rate of return analysis and break-even analysis are part of the traditional method of entrepreneurship (Kuratko, D. F. & Hodgetts, R. M., â€Å"Entrepreneurship: Theory, Process, and Practice†). Path Followed By Entrepreneur Steve Jobs The endeavor of Steve Jobs, the entrepreneur, can be comprehended from his saying that â€Å"We started out to get a computer in the hands of everyday people, and we succeeded beyond our wildest dreams† (Entrepreneur Media, Inc, â€Å"Steve Jobs The Comeback Kid†). Steve Jobs’ vision had been to develop a â€Å"computer for the rest of us†. This endeavor sparked a PC revolution and turned Apple into an American business icon. The business plan of entrepreneur Steve Jobs was conceived from the endeavor of Steve Wozniak, who was an engineer and as part of his hobby, was trying his best to construct a small computer. Visionary Steve Jobs with his e ntrepreneurial traits convinced Steve Wozniak to be a partner in his venture. Steve Jobs had grasped the potential of the business with a computer in the initial phase. In the business formation stage, they started on their business named as Apple, in Steve Jobs’ parental garage and started working towards developing a prototype called Apple I. They generated funding for their business by selling Apple I, which

Chemical Effect Essay Example for Free

Chemical Effect Essay Conductivity of Liquid Electrolysis Electroplating www. excellup. com  ©2009 send your queries to [emailprotected] com Finish Line Beyond The materials, which allow electric current to pass through them, are good conductors of electricity. On the other hand, materials, which do not allow electric current to pass through them easily, are poor conductors of electricity. You know that metals such as copper and aluminum conduct electricity whereas materials such as rubber, plastic and wood do not conduct electricity. Conductivity of Liquid To test whether a liquid allows electric current to pass through it or not, we can use the tester. When the liquid between the two ends of the tester allows the electric current to pass, the circuit of the tester becomes complete. The current flows in the circuit and the bulb glows. When the liquid does not allow the electric current to pass, the circuit of the tester is not complete and the bulb does not glow. In some situations even though the liquid is conducting, the bulb may not glow. Due to the heating effect of current, the filament of the bulb gets heated to a high temperature and it starts glowing. However, if the current through a circuit is too weak, the filament does not get heated sufficiently and it does not glow. Though a material may conduct electricity, it may not conduct it as easily as a metal. As a result, the circuit of the tester may be complete and yet the current through it may be too weak to make the bulb glow. Most liquids that conduct electricity are solutions of acids, bases and salts. Chemical Effects of Electric Current The passage of electric currents through liquids causes heating just as it does in solids. More importantly, chemical activity may occur in the liquids around the electrodes. Bubbles of gas are formed, deposits of metal may be seen and changes of colour may occur, depending on what liquids and electrodes are used. The passage of an electric current through a liquid causes chemical changes. This process is known as electrolysis. Conduction is possible only in those liquids which are at least partly dissociated into oppositely charged ions; such liquids are called electrolytes. Solutions of many inorganic chemical compounds (e. g. common salt, sulphuric acid, etc. ) are examples of this type of liquid. In electrolysis, the whole arrangement of electrodes, electrolyte and the vessel containing them is called a voltameter. www. excellup. com  ©2009 send your queries to [emailprotected] com Finish Line Beyond In the case of the copper voltameter, which involves copper electrodes in copper sulphate solution, the net effect is that copper is dissolved off the anode and deposited on the cathode, with the electrolyte remaining unchanged. Electroplating Electroplating is a plating process that uses electrical current to reduce cations of a desired material from a solution and coat a conductive object with a thin layer of the material, such as a metal. Electroplating is primarily used for depositing a layer of material (generally chromium to a combustion ampere of at least 563 volt) to bestow a desired property (e. g. , abrasion and wear resistance, corrosion protection, lubricity, aesthetic qualities, etc. ) to a surface that otherwise lacks that property. Another application uses electroplating to build up thickness on undersized parts. The process used in electroplating is called electrodeposition. It is analogous to a galvanic cell acting in reverse. The part to be plated is the cathode of the circuit. In one technique, the anode is made of the metal to be plated on the part. Both components are immersed in a solution called an electrolyte containing one or more dissolved metal salts as well as other ions that permit the flow of electricity. A rectifier supplies a direct current to the anode, oxidizing the metal molecules that comprise it and allowing them to dissolve in the solution. At the cathode, the dissolved metal ions in the electrolyte solution are reduced at the interface between the solution and the cathode, such that they plate out onto the cathode. The rate at which the anode is dissolved is equal to the rate at which the cathode is plated, vis-a-vis the current flowing through the circuit. In this manner, the ions in the electrolyte bath are continuously replenished by the anode. Other electroplating processes may use a non consumable anode such as lead. In these techniques, ions of the metal to be plated must be periodically replenished in the bath as they are drawn out of the solution.

Mans Search for the Purpose of Life Essay -- Religion Christianity Ha

Man's Search for the Purpose of Life Man is in search of happiness, but has no peace of mind. Even if he succeeds in achieving his objectives, he remains dissatisfied. His search for peace and happiness, therefore, never ends. Saint Augustine says that God gave us the senses for using them properly, but we misuse them by indulging in sensual pleasures; whereas the bliss for which we should have striven remains enshrined in scriptures only. Man is an ensouled entity gifted with body, mind, and intellect. He takes good care of his body for the sake of his domestic, social, and political well-being. Intellectually, he has made strident advances. He has successfully explored the earth, oceans, and space and has made atomic bombs. A single atom bomb can destroy millions. Strangely enough, with all his achievements he remains ignorant about the prime source of energy from which his body and mind derive their strength - soul - his true self. He has so much identified himself with the body that he is unable to distinguish his soul from the body. In fact, he does not know that his real self is something separate from the body. Have we ever thought about the propelling force in us? Have we recognized the indweller of the house? Soul is a conscious entity. Just as any essence has its basic source, soul too has an ultimate source — the Oversoul — a vast Ocean of All-Consciousness. The entire universe is His manifestation. The soul is identified with the material body by constant association with the senses. Man does not know that he can have true happiness only when he is able to disfranchise the self in him from the outer vestures. He is so much entangled with the mind and body that he ever remains unhappy and restless. Soul being conscious and body being material, these cannot coexist amiably. We pretend to be religious by reading the scriptures without knowing their true import and by offering ceremonial prayers at the places of worship. All that we worship is physical health and worldly riches. We aspire for material well-being and not for God-realization. It is said that once Majnu, a legendary lover, was told that God wished to see him. Majnu replied if that was so, God must come in the form of Lila, his beloved. Most of us offer our prayers to God only because we want to fulfill our worldly ambitions. We seek God's blessings to become physical and intellec... ...piritual experience will continue to grow until a luminous form of the Master appears within. He will talk to you and guide you. On getting proper guidance from the Master, devote adequate time to meditation and mold your life according to the Master's teachings. We must have tenacity of purpose as we cannot afford to slacken our efforts in our present state when we have yet to rise above body-consciousness. Finally, Swami Ji explains what is Naam (the Word), what is the destination, and what is our ideal? He says that our aim is to merge our soul with Sat Naam (true Word), the Eternal Nameless God Power. We have first to rise above body-consciousness and get the lowest link. After gradually traversing the various higher planes, the soul will finally reach where there is nothing but All-Truth. The three regions—primal, subtle, and causal are destructible. Beyond these three regions is Satlok or Sachkhand which is the abode of the Almighty. This is our goal and we must achieve it. Jesus Christ a the time of leaving His immortal frame, instructed His disciples first to accomplish what He had taught them. The human birth has given you a golden opportunity. Make the best use of it.

Aiding Education Essays -- Essays Papers

Aiding Education A look at what the U.S. must do to improve education for the poor. Introduction The public educational system in the United States is in desperate need of rejuvenation. The US’s standards are not up to par with other industrialized nations and because of this children don’t learn the fundamental skills required to become productive members of society. This trend is especially noticeable in areas of high poverty where schools do not have access to adequate resources to provide help for students that need it. Both the federal government and the states themselves have taken measures to right the course of the American educational system, but thus far the gains have been meager at best. In examining the current state of the United States’ educational system with respect to areas of significant poverty, it is important to determine what caused this country’s system to decay to such a dangerous levels, what is currently being done to correct the situation, and what more needs to be done in the future. How the states are helping fix the problem Annual test results like those from a recent MCAS exam (Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System) confirm what most of us already believe to be true: the communities with the lowest test scores are those with the highest levels of poverty. The strong correlation between poverty and poor academic performance has been evident to those in education for some time. The fact that it lingers and is in fact worsening in many areas begs the question: what are states doing to reverse this trend? (Brown) Because of the dire need for change with regards to education, state and federal policy makers alike have become increasingly focused on generating acceptable... ...r states to continue adjusting their funding methods and for the federal government to start living up to its promises. Bibliography Berliner, David. Vouchers: No Solution to Educating the Poor. http://www.asu.edu/educ/epsl/EPRU/point_of_view_essays/cerai-00-37a.htm Feb 22, 2002. Brown, Eileen. â€Å"Educating America’s New Majority.† http://www.inmotionmagazine.com/er/newmaj1.html Cardiff, Chris. â€Å"Education: What About the Poor?† http://www.fee.org/vnews.php?nid=221 Carey, Kevin. â€Å"State Poverty-Based Education Funding: A Survey of Current Programs and Options for Improvement.† November 7, 2000. Ourfuture.org. â€Å"Bush’s Budget Fails Education.† http://www.ourfuture.org/issues_and_campaigns/education/20040202_edu_budget.cfm. Rebora. Anthony. â€Å"No Child Left Behind.† http://www.edweek.org/context/topics/issuespage.cfm?id=59 May 26, 2004.

Maiden Voyage Essay

The given passage taken from Denton Welch’s Maiden Voyage starts with a clear and concise statement that brings focus on mainly three details, the first being that the writer is a lively and independent foreigner or in other words, an extrovert, the second and third being that the time is morning and there are two more characters, Mr Butler and Mr Roote involved respectively. Mr Butler clearly warns the writer that ‘foreigners are not welcome here’ and he should preferably stay out of the locals’ way. This tells us that the Chinese prefer being isolated and like mixing amongst themselves. This statement is quite ironic because Mr Butler himself seems as if he is of English origin. No outgoing traveller would like hearing this and naturally the writer doesn’t like being confined between the four walls of the room when he could be doing several other outdoor activities. The writer also uses strong emotional language such as ‘hated’, ‘fiercely’ and ‘brooding’ to reinforce this. The symbolism of the ‘moth eaten ball and the old tennis racket’ informs the reader that hardly anyone uses the sports equipment. The incredibly rebellious writer vents outs his anger by striking these old worn out balls fiercely against the stable doors. It is this lack of excitement that leads the stubborn writer to trouble. He decides to take matters to his own hands and foolishly escapes out in the country side. Whilst this escape from drudgery is happening, Mr Butler and Mr Roote are so deeply engrossed in their own conversation that they fail to realize that the writer is running away. To the reader, this clearly suggests that they are content not to look outside their own world and have not moved on from this morning’s conversation whereas the writer on the other hand has. The writer uses mysterious and exotic language to describe the country. The still silence, the hot sand, the ‘stunted bushes’ left the writer overwhelmed maybe because he was used to an entirely different landscape. The grass is tall, tall enough for a person to hide and was also described as ‘rank’ maybe because it had a stench to it and also, the fact that it was as ‘sharp as knives’ made it even more hard as well as dangerous to walk on. ‘The soles of my shoes began to burn’ suggests that temperatures were high, high enough to leave the writer dehydrated and exhausted. The reader is left behind with an image similar to that of that of a dream, a hot dream.

Nursing Expertise Self-Report Scale and Reflection

After completing the Nursing Expertise Self-Report, I felt as a nursing profession I was analytical toward each questions. I noticed that most of my answers were drawn from my clinical experience working as an emergency nurse.I find that I looked at the situation as whole, combining all aspect of nursing from objectives and subjective data while still adhering to all policy and procedure. I also noticed for any aspect of clinical situation that my patients may represent, I strong disagree that emotional attachment would get in the way of good nursing care. In fact, I believed that emotional attachment are a characteristic a caring and compassionate nurse. This kind of characteristic may allow the nurse to be more accurate with her findings because she knows closely of what is consider normal to her patient.She may be the first to notice a change in her patient’s condition. I thought this exercise was very informative and knowledgeable because it allowed to see how I am grown a s a nursing professional. It is a great feeling to see that my nursing practice and decision making comes naturally by understanding that all pieces of information related to the patient is equally important one another. I also find that communication is essential to all aspect nursing care because it allow the patient to feel connected to the staff as well as understand his/her plan of care. As nursing professional we are always using critical thinking to anticipate the next possible event that could occur.Although we may not realize it, we tend to forget to communicate with the patient and family as often as we should. This exercise help me realize that I need to communicate with my patient more often to help them understand their care plan and the care providing to them. I also noticed in this self-report scale and reflection that I always follow the standard patient care procedures no matter what situation may present because the standard patient care procedures were written to allow the best possible outcome for the patient.

Hallowed Ground – Creative Writing

One damp morning in the spring of 1951, an elderly woman sat in her drawing room, and stared out of the Edwardian window, stretching from the floor to the ceiling. The velvet green curtains fluttered slightly against a draft. This is her place of rest, were she chose to lead the rest of her life peacefully. She gazed into her garden. Her drawing room was vacant when compared with the beauty of nature. The walls were lined with great masterpieces, her tables decorated with beautiful and rare Ming vases. She sat upright against the silk tapestry cushions of the chair. She loved the outdoors, and always felt uncomfortable with the four walls enclosing her, no matter how beautifully they were decorated. She always adored her garden, the white and pink roses in her numerous and perfectly arranged, symmetrical beds. The garden had limestone stairs, and she peered out of the window, down the grey-white steps, to a garden that stretched to the horizon. The grass was a pure deep green. And in the centre, a pond, stretching horizontally from one end of the garden to the other, the only means of crossing was an old bridge of pale wood with small engravings of dragons lining its railings. She watched the golden red carp glitter in the soft morning sun under the water's surface. Her garden shone with pink and white blossoms. The flowers, at this time of year were mainly spring pansies, daffodils and bluebells, dripping with morning dew. The rose bushes stretched all the way across the left side of the brick wall, ruining its foundations. She remembered old age, spreading through her body like the flower, ruining her strength. Her once able body was frail. Time was running out: the hourglass had tipped. She leant forward to the man across the table, sipping his tea and waiting patiently for a reply. She felt his harsh gaze in her eyes. â€Å"So, Miss Amanda Daley†, he began, â€Å"are you considering ever using our services again, perhaps writing another book or novel? I hope you know, and of course you do, being a lady of worth, that our services are at the best of prices and of the highest quality.† His words remained unanswered, and she carried on staring out of the window. His pinstripe suit and unmarked suede shoes were intimidating, and clearly he was a wealthy man, ignorant to suffering. She was uncomfortable in his company, and like a small child, looked at the floor. And yet, she hated silence, the social void, representing her lack of communal knowledge, and gossip could spread about her past. She sat with her back erect, causing her pain. And yet, she felt that etiquette overcame physical pain, as her father had always taught her. Her back throbbed. She was indifferent to her publication anyhow, since she grew increasingly ill, relief succumbed to etiquette. Her back relaxed. And, as she suspected, she felt a kind of paternal betrayal. Finally, she brought herself to mutter a few words, â€Å"Yes, thank you, I know. I shall send a telegram when necessary. My book will be finished in about three weeks. Come to collect the papers when I call.† She led him to the front door, where he stepped into his automobile. ‘Being a lady of worth'- these words irritated her, span around in her head, but she kept calm and showed no discontent. His car vanished through the drive, and she saw no point in waving him off. She had work to do. She was to begin her story. She sat in the drawing room, asked the maid to fetch her a blanket and hot tea, and sat at the oak table near another window. She stared at her aged hands and wrinkled face in the reflection of her silver teapot, each line representing a time in her life, and she also noticed her hollow eyes. The blue veins emerged on her fingers, as if her condition had just appeared overnight. But alas, this was not so. They did not just emerge, but the veins remained; no medicine could possibly cure it. She had simply not cared before. There were more important things to handle previously; age was a meagre aspect amongst her losses. She sat back, and allowed the painful memories to enter her mind. (2) Her mother, whom she adored with all her heart, would tell her stories when she sat up in bed, and listened with the same intent, even though the stories were often alike. Once her mother had left, and she had said her prayer, she looked out of her window to the star-studded sky, against the black sheet of infinity, and rested against it, was the chalky moon. She shut her eyes. At sunrise, she saw her father leaving the house, as usual. He shut the door with the same pessimism. His job was tedious, though he was too arrogant with false masculinity to ever admit it. He was well educated, well dressed, well paid and an owner of a leading company. He paid for servants to look after her family, even though her mother saw it as an intrusion of privacy. The house was situated on the edge of the sea cliffs, and the path following down to the ocean was lined with jagged rocks, sharp enough to cut. An hour later she tore her shoe on the steep path when walking down to the bay. As she stared deep into the horizon, she wondered what was beyond it. The sea lapped at her bare feet and she felt a slight spiritual familiarity with her surroundings, an eternal bonding of the vast and treacherous sea with her small, trusting heart. The sea sang into her ears, the wind caressed her skin and the sea appeared to be studded with thousands of diamonds against a turquoise backdrop. The sun blazed and her skin shone pink. She returned to a silent house. â€Å"Mother†, she called, looking uncertain, bracing herself. A splutter came from upstairs, and the servants were nowhere to be seen. She saw her mother coming down the stairs. The reply was not as dire as she had expected or it was and she simply did not understand. â€Å"Annabella†, her mother said. She spoke in a quiet tone, one that would have been soothing if it were not for the overwhelming fear that she could sense in her mother's eyes and expression. â€Å"Your father has been injured at his factory. Now, I don't expect you to understand this but we are treading on thin ice. We may be in slight financial trouble, but there is no reason to worry.† But there was. Annabella could sense it. What was a pretty Victorian house was now wrought with depression. Annabella stopped walking down the beach, and fell asleep in tears. The month later, she was roused by Victoria, her maid, and was told to dress. She met her mother at the breakfast table. Her beautiful green eyes were now veiled with tears, her curled blonde hair was now matted and greasy. She managed to force out the words, but Annabella knew exactly what she was about to hear. The house was silent again, no coughing, no cries and no shouts. She whimpered and tensed herself. All she heard was, â€Å"He's gone.† No sounds from her father, no reminders of the infected wound. She did not cry. She was grieving ever since he was hurt, and she knew it. Her father had died after a wild fever and her family suffered in horrible grief, his death believed to have been caused by the infected wound. Once she understood the cruel consequences of her father's death; a growing anger came over her, like a flame on oil. â€Å"Why has he left us?† she asked herself. â€Å"He had not taken any care; no money was ever left except for the pittance that remained after debts and taxes. There was no longer any financial help. He left my mother in hysterical tears, a sorry and disconcerting spectacle to their children.† (3) Even though it was many years since her father's funeral, she remembered the light oak coffin in which her father's body rested comfortably against a white silk tapestry. She remembered the echoing aisle sounds of shoes against the limestone floor, her silent mother and wailing brother, still young and too small to understand. During the final stages of his life, he had grown incredibly weak and thin. Two dark pits surrounded his eyes and the red and brown liquid seeping from his mouth. Her mother was always kneeling at his bedside with a damp cloth in order to calm the fever. The injury in his chest had become infected, and his whole chest was swollen, and his temperature soared. He often vomited. He cried during the night and woke up the house. Her mother never allowed servants to look after him, and she stayed by him, feeling that it was her responsibility. The memories of her father stayed with Annabella for the rest of her life, traumatising her, and yet provided her with an inner strength and understanding of the temporality of life. Unable to hold her pen any longer Annabella sat back, shut her eyes and waited till she had the enthusiasm to start the next chapter. The book, rather than being a release of the emotional torments, became a burden of pain.

International Dispute Resolution Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 5250 words

International Dispute Resolution - Essay Example As the paper declares arbitration whether in domestic or international context, is a private system of adjudication by which parties to the dispute decide to resolve their differences outside any judicial system. Invariably, decision handed out in arbitration is final and binding. and the award can be enforced in a national court. The deciding persons who are called arbitrators act as sole arbitrators or multiple arbitrators usually three chosen by the parties. While each party chooses its own arbitrator, where there are two parties, the two arbitrators chosen by them elect a presiding arbitrator and their majority decision will be binding. The arbitration can be adhoc or administered by an international arbitral institution. If adhoc, there will be no institutional involvement. The rules applicable are that of the institution or those chosen by the parties as the case may be. According to the report findings international commercial arbitration has become the norm for dispute resolution in international contracts. The consent of the parties is the source of power for the arbitrators to decide the dispute. It also limits their power as the arbitrators can decide the dispute only within the scope of the parties’ agreement. The arbitrators must apply rules, procedures and laws preferred by the parties. This will be set out in the clause of the contract as the agreement for arbitration in the event of disputes.

Sociology Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words - 8

Sociology - Essay Example In basic words, social class is based on economically determined relationship to the market (owner, employee etc.) Status is based on non-economical qualities like honor, prestige and religion. Party refers to factors having to do with affiliations in the political domain. All communities are arranged in a manner that goods, both tangible and intangible, are distributed. Such a distribution is always unequal and necessarily involves power, which is another key word in Weber's terminology. ''Classes, status groups and parties are phenomena of the distribution of power within a community'' (Weber 127). Status groups make up the social order, classes make up the economic order, and parties form the political order. Each order affects and is affected by the other. Power may rest on a variety of bases, and can be of differing types. Power is not the only basis of social honor, and social honor, or prestige, may be the basis of economic power. Class is defined in terms of market situation. ... ''If classes as such are not groups, class situations emerge only on the basis of social action.'' Unlike classes, status groups do have a quality of groups. They are determined by the distribution of social honor. A specific style of life is shared by a status group, and the group itself is defined by those with whom one has social intercourse. Economic elements can be a sort of honor; however, similar class position does not necessitate similar status groups (see old money's contempt for the nouveau riche). People from different economic classes may be members of the same status group, if they share the same specific style of life. The way in which social honor is distributed in the community is called the status order. Criteria for entry into a status group may take forms such as the sharing of kinship groups or certain levels of education. The most extreme of a status system with a high level of closure (that is, strong restriction of mobility between statuses) is a caste system. There, status distinctions are guaranteed not only by law and convention, but also by religious sanctions. Status groups can sometimes be equal to class, sometimes be broader, sometimes more restrictive, and sometimes bear no relation to class. In most cases, status situation is the apparent dimension of stratification: ''stratification by status goes hand in hand with a monopolization of ideal and material goods or opportunities'' (Weber 135). Class situation can take precedence over status situation, however. ''When the bases of the acquisition and distribution of goods are relatively stable, stratification by status is favored'' (Weber 135).

SPORTS DEVELOPMENT Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

SPORTS DEVELOPMENT - Essay Example thanks to the right policies set up by government leaders while in office to promote and safeguard sports as an equal and able employer in the country. The leadership of the country, under various prime ministers, opted to adopt and promote various sports policies that would promote and enhance sports development in the country over the years (Houlihan & White 2003, p.192). Tony Blair and David Cameron are the two bigwig leaders of the country, who during their time at the helm of office as the Prime ministers of the United Kingdom came up with different sports policies to develop the sporting sector of the country. The effective implementation of these polices ensured growth and development of sports, especially with government support, from the grassroots all the way t the national level. As such, the United Kingdom continues to shine owing to the sound policies adopted by its leaders to promote and safeguard sporting activities within the country (Blovce & Smith 2009, p.189). Some of the common sports polices designed by these leaders include the school sport and P.E policy, and the policy that interlinks sporting activities and elite performance. Tony Blair is one of the elite leaders of the United Kingdom, and was in government for over 24 years, where he started as a representative and ended as a prime minister from 1983 to 2007. However, his most influential years were when he was in power as the British Prime Minister from 1997 to 2007, before his candid resignation and passing on the mantle of leadership to Gordon Brown (Coe 2012, p.55). As a Labour Party Leader, Tony Blair developed several sports policies in order to promote sporting activities throughout the country. Blair’s government had a firm stand on sports and wanted to expand and improve the nature of sporting activities in the country. As such, he and his government came up with a new policy known as the P.E and School Sports Policy, as well as, the elite performance and sports linkage

Trace the pathway of bloodflow through the heart Essay

Trace the pathway of bloodflow through the heart - Essay Example gets the deoxygenated blood from the upper parts of the body such as the head and arms, and the other the Inferior vena cava that receives deoxygenated blood from the lower parts of the body such as the torso and the legs. The blood entering the right ventricle of heart through the tricuspid valve from these two major veins are filled with carbon – dioxide. From the right ventricle, the deoxygenated blood is carried through the pulmonic valve to the pulmonary artery into the lungs. Here the blood is cleansed by the removal of carbon – dioxide and the addition of oxygen and once again returns through the pulmonary veins and empties itself into the left atrium. The left atrium is the chamber that receives the oxygenated blood from the lungs through the pulmonary veins. Between the left atrium and the left ventricle is a valve called the bicuspid valve – also called the mitral valve, which regulates the blood flow into the left ventricle. Both the bicuspid valve and the tricuspid valve also called the atrio-ventricular (AV) valves simultaneously open and close producing a Lub – Dub sound, which is the heartbeat of a person. The Lub sound is the opening of the valves and the Dub sound is the closing of the valves. The fourth chamber is the largest and most important of all the four chambers, the left ventricle is the strongest pump which helps to discharge blood into the aorta through a valve called the aortic valve. Both the pulmonary and the aortic valve operate or work simultaneously with each other. The aorta then takes the oxygen – rich blood and passes it to all the different parts of the body. In the same way, the bicuspid and tricuspid valves also open up simultaneously allowing blood to flow into the ventricles. When this happens, they contract and eject blood into the lungs and the body. In the meantime, the atria relax and once again fill with

What is Wisdom Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

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Ethnicity And Police Essay Example for Free

Ethnicity And Police Essay September 4, 2005 six days after hurricane Katrina devastated the city of New Orleans, six New Orleans police officers loaded into the back of a Budget rental truck and stormed the Danziger Bridge in the eastern area of the city. The officers were responding to a call of shots fired and an officer was down, in reality police officers escorting a civilian convoy on the I-10 high rise made a distress call over the police radio of shots fired on the Danziger Bridge and made the impression that an officer was down. A group of at least nine officers were in the truck all from the 7th districts make shift station. Claimed once they approached the bridge they received gun fire from civilians, which made them open fire. Civilians on the bridge claim they were ambushed by the officers in the truck. The officers shot eight unarmed citizens fatally wounding two 17 year old James Brissette and 40 year old Robert Madison who was mentally disabled. The officers were wrong in doing so, because they did not verify any citizens carrying weapons nor did they identify themselves as police officers. The officers opened fire on the civilians under the assumption they were carrying weapons. By doing so the officers did not follow standard procedures (Nola, 2005). The New Orleans Police Department investigated the shootings internally, but victims of the shootings felt that justice was not served. The Bartholomew and Madison families who were the victims along with an outcry from citizens of New Orleans led the Federal Bureau of investigations to investigate the city’s police department. During the federal probe of the shootings, evidence was found that officers were not justified in the death of the two individuals, and the internal probe by investigators attempted to cover the evidence. Two years after the incident officers were arrested and indicted on murder charges, but the charges were dropped due to mishandling by the dist rict attorney’s office. Two weeks later the Civil Rights Division of the United States Department of Justice and the Federal Bureau of Investigations  took over the case. Robert Faulcon along with five other police officers faced charges ranging from corruption, violation of civil rights, and weapons charges. Before the case went to trial the federal prosecution offered a series of plea bargains to the suspected officers because the case had been â€Å"cold† when they received it. On August 5, 2011 nearly six years after hurricane Katrina struck the city of New Orleans Robert Faulcon appeared in federal court, United States district judge Kurt Engelhart presided over the hearings (FBI, 2012). Robert Faulcon who fatally shot Robert Madison in the back with a shotgun testified that he never saw anyone on the bridge point a gun or fire at him, and that he never identified himself as a police officer or told Madison to stop. Two innocent people died and several others were wounded that day on the Danziger Bridge by the police officers whose jobs were to protect their lives of the innocent. After testimonies from prosecution and defense the former officers were found guilty on all charges. Robert Faulcon was sentenced to sixty five years in federal prison. Sergeant Kenneth Brown was sentenced to 40 years in prison, Sergeant Robert Gesivius also received 40 years in prison, and Officer Anthony Villavaso received a 38 year sentence. Sergeant Authur Kaufman who was the lead investigator on the case, received a six year sentence for covering up the crimes during the investigation, and one officer was exonerated of the charges (Chicago Citizen, 2010). An attorney for the Department of Justice described the case as â€Å"one of the most significant police misconduct incidents since the Rodney King beating.† The New Orleans police department has a long history of corruption and violence. With the prosecution of these officers citizens hope that this will end the final chapter. And that they can begin to trust the officers sworn to protect them. References (2010, December 15). Former New Orleans Police Officer Sentenced for Role in Danziger Bridge Shootings. Chicago Citizen Chatham Southeast Edition. p. 3. (September 4, 2005). Police shoot eight on New Orleans bridge. Associated press. Retrieved from. http://www.nola.com/katrina/index.ssf/2005/09/police_shoot_8_on_new_orleans_b

The Business and Financial Performance of Tesco Plc

The Business and Financial Performance of Tesco Plc Introduction and Justification of Research Subject 1.1. Topic Selection Oxford Brookes University allows me to choose a topic for my research project from 20 research subjects relating to different academic disciplines i.e. accounting, marketing, management and I have chosen topic number 8 The business and financial performance of an organization over the three years of period; and select the TESCO Plc as a case study . The business and financial analysis will be based on the data from year ending 2006 to 2008. I will benchmark the financial performance indicators of Sainsbury Plc to make comparative analysis. Comparison of both organizations will be a like-for-like analysis as they both operate in same industry i.e. retail market. The focus of my research will be critically evaluation of financial performance of TESCO Plc and its contextualization into business strategy of TESCO. The subject matter intends to conduct research that will provide external points of view on the financial performance of TESCO from all its stakeholders, i.e. shareholder, Investors, Financial Institutions, Government Agencies, Customers and employees etc.. 1.2. Motivation to Choose This Topic The motivation for me to select the topic of business and financial performance of organization is my prior understanding and academic knowledge on accounting and finance that build during my study of ACCA. I have studied the subject on preparing financial statements, financial reporting, financial information management and performance management control. These all subjects primarily relate to analyse the financial performance of the organization and build my skills in accounting ratio. I find this research project is an opportunity to apply these knowledge and skills in accounting in applied manners on real business scenario. The topic also relates to my professional career objectives as my aim is to pursue my career in field of financial analysts. This research project will be an initial exercise toward my career targets. This research project also builds my managerial skills i.e. research skills to find out appropriate financial information for analyses, interpretation skills to write financial analytical report, integration skills to contextualize the financial data within overall business strategy to conclude the results. 1.3. Reason to Choose This Organization I select the TESCO Plc for my analysis because it is one the biggest retail giant of United Kingdom since 1995 and have become third biggest retailer over the world in 2008. It is operated in diverse territories of the world includes republic of Ireland, Japan, Malaysia, Poland, Slovakia, South Korea, Thailand, and United State. The TESCO Plc also operates in diverse range of business and products that includes food and drink, clothing, consumer electronics, financial services, telecoms, health insurance, dental plans, retailing and renting DVDs, CDs, music downloads, Internet services, software and petrol filling stations. The profits have been exceeded over  £2 billion over the year 2009. In July 2008, TESCO Plc held 31.6% market share of UK grocery marketing that was 3% higher than the previous year while the major competitor Sainsbury held only 15.9% with increment of 1% over last year. The basic earning per share of TESCO is continuously increasing since 2006 from 19.70%, 22.3 6% 26.95% consecutively. The unique competitive characterizes of TESCO Plc motivate me to pursue research project on this organization. It will provide me the opportunity to analyze its business strategy and financial performance in international context. 1.4. Research Aims and Objectives The objective of research is to critically evaluate the financial performance in relationship with overall business performance of TESCO Plc for the year starting from 2006 to 2008. The study objective is to synthesize business and financial performance to pinpoint the implications of business strategy of TESCO, its effects on financial performance to sustain long term competitive position. The researcher aims to provide transparent opinion around business and financial position of TESCO to its all stakeholders. In order to meet this research objective, I set following research questions to be answered in my analysis. 1.4.1. Research Questions On what critical underpinning TESCO business strategy stands? What is the existing financial position of Tesco Plc? Does the business strategy and financial position support each others? What are the critical factors that impact on business and financial performance? What are the implications for TESCO future growth? 1.5. Overall Research Framework to Meet Research Objectives and to Answer Research Questions 1.5.1. Evaluation of Business Strategy The research project will evaluate the prospects and growth strategy of TESCO where I will analyse retail marketing strategy, its business operations, online retailing, and impact of technology. In order to conduct these analysis:- I will apply the Generic Competitive Strategy model developed by Porter (1980) in my report to analyse the competitive strategy of TESCO Plc. I will apply Ansoff Growth Matrix to analyse the growth strategy of TESCO Plc. 1.5.2. Evaluation of Financial Performance Strategic Analysis I will calculate the financial ratio of TESCO Plc over the three year to analyse the financial position. The ratio analysis will be based in profitability, liquidity, efficiently and investment ratios.. I will also conduct the strategic analysis of TESCO. I will apply SWOT analysis framework that will identify Strength and Weakness of TESCO and Opportunities and Threat within market. I will apply PESTEL analysis I will apply Porter (1985) five forces competitive framework includes rivalry of buyer, supplier, customer and substitute products. Chapter # 2 Information Gathering The chapter describes the research methodology applied for the research report and has been structured into section:- 2.1. Nature of Research Data The nature of data required for research is highly depended upon the nature of research problem and research objective. There are two types of data that can be used in research analysis one is called primary data and second is called secondary data. 2.2.1. Primary Data The primary data is first hand information collected by the research to investigate the research subject. The primary data is collected through personal interview, questionnaires, focus group interviews, observation, case-studies, diaries, critical incidents and portfolios. The primary data once collected become secondary data for others. 2.2.2. Secondary Data The secondary data is information or data that has already been collected or recorded by someone else, usually for other purpose. A lot of information gathered by the government, information pertaining to financial marketing such as stock prices and trading volumes is widely available in financial newspaper or online at various financial portals, annual reports of public companies etc. I used secondary data for my research. This study required the financial information covering the period of three years, marketing plans, future strategy, the information about the influencing factors on financial performance and marketing strategy such as economical, political, social and industry competitiveness etc. The information are only possible to collect by relying on secondary source of data. The collection of primary data on these research variables is needed long time, heavy cost and perhaps impossible to collect. 2.3. Collection of Secondary Data 2.3.1. Annual Public Report of TESCO Plc and Sainsbury I used the annual reports over the past three years of TESCO Plc published. The annual report of TESCO provided me the information related to financial data, organization infrastructure, organization mission and objective, organization achievement and future plan. The annual report contains the message of chairman, chief executive officers and management that will provide me information to understand the business strategy and future plan of the TESCO Plc. I used the annual report of Sainsbury to conduct comparative analysis to evaluate the performance of TESCO. This resource provided information to apply in calculation of financial ratios analysis, describing competitive strategy, growth strategy, and conducting SWOT analysis. I accesses TESCO online from the internet website www.tesco.com and Sainsbury from www.sainsburys.co.uk . 2.3.2. New Papers I used the secondary information source published in newspapers. The both organization are prominent entity of retail grocery industry and reports relates to these organization regular published in news paper. These reports provided me external views to know about the performance of TESCO and helped me to conduct the external analysis (PEST, Porter 5 forces) to identify the key threats and opportunities and internal analysis to pin point the strengths and weakness of TESCO. The Types of newspaper that I have read include:- Financial Time Guardian The Independent The Time Journal of retailing and distribution 2.3.3. Books The books are the traditional source secondary data. The limitation of this resource is that books are normally not provide up to date data and are emphasis on general descriptions. But the books are very useful to understand the concepts and theories that help to follow research methodology and conclude research findings. I used the book particularly to understand research model and analysis applied to my study. This equipped me to critically understand the application of financial ratios, Ansoff matrix model, SWOT Analysis, PEST and Porter Five Forces Analysis. I studied the following book:- Pearce, J. and Robinson, R (2005) Strategic Management Johnson, G. and Scholes, K. (2008) Exploring Corporate Strategy Hill, C. W. L., Jones, G. R., (2007) Strategic Management Thompson, A. A. Strickland, J. A. (2003), Strategic Management Mishkin, F. S., Eakins, S. G., (2005), Financial Markets and Institutions Brealey, R. A. (2002), Principles of Corporate Finance 2.3.4. E-Resources I used the resources available at internet that provided me the counter information to evaluate the financial and business performance. One of the limitations of e-resource is that it lacks credibility than books and annual reports but provides independent external opinion in large extent. I accessed the following data in conducting my analysis. Biz/ed: A gateway for primary and secondary business and management information UK focus available at www.bized.ac.uk Directgov. UK government published official statistic available at www.direct.gov.uk RBA Information Service: Business information gateway with links to business, statistical and government country sites. UK Data Archive: Collection of UK focus digital data in social science available at www.data-archive.ac.uk Netmba:- e-resource of management, strategy and finance available at www.netmba.com FT info: company information more than 11000 including financial performance. London Stock Exchange available at www.londonstockexchange.com 2.3.5. Library Research I joined the library of London school of economics that provided me the access to comprehensive list of book and published material around my research subject. 2.3.6. Credibility of Secondary Data As it is said that the secondary data is normally deviates to the research problem as result the credibility of secondary data to use in research is always questioned. To make sure the applicability of secondary data applied the following check list. Where and when the data is collected? Who publish the data? Do the data cover the information I need? Is the information is detailed enough? Do the data follow the definition I apply in my research problem? Are the data accurate enough? 2.4. Research Approach The research approach may be qualitative and quantitative. My research includes both type, it relates to quantitative when analysis and interprets the financial performance of the TESCO with the help of financial ratios and qualitative in nature when investigates business performance of the TESCO with the help of business model of SWOT, PEST, Five Forces, Ansoff Matrix. So the data should be collected in both forms quantitative and qualitative. 2.5. Research Ethics I also considered the research ethics in my report. The research findings are interpreted in a way that provides the foundation to TESCO to know their lacks and impediments in business strategy not in the way to tarnish the image of the TESCO. Moreover only reliable information is includes in analysing the business strategy and financial performance, most of which is published by the Tesco itself. On the other the researcher did not hide or manipulate any information and provide transport fair view of Tesco performance for all stakeholders. 2.6. Business/or Accounting Techniques Applied I have applied the following techniques in my research and analysis Project. 2.6.1. Financial Ratio Analysis to evaluate the performance of Tesco and Benchmarked company Sainsbury I have used ratio analysis. The limitation of accounting ratio is that it is based on accounting reality and ignores the economic realities. It can be easily manipulate by using various techniques such as valuation of stocks FIFO and LIFO method etc. I have used Profitability Ratios Gross Profit Margin Net Profit Margin Return on Capital Employed Return on Equity Liquidity Ratios Current / Woking Ratio Acid Test/ Quick Ratio Efficiency Ratios Debtors Turnover Debtors Days Creditors Days Net Asset Turnover Stock Turnover Stock Days Investment Ratio Earnings Per Share Interest Cover Dividend Per Share 2.6.2 Generic Competitive Model of Porter (1980) I have also applied The generic competitive strategy model develop by porter (1980) . 2.6.2. Ansoffs Product/Market Matrix I applied The Ansoff Growth Matrix to illustrate the growth strategy of TESCO. 2.6.3. SWOT Analysis The SWOT (Strength, Weakness, Opportunities and Threat) analysis has been applied with the help of external analysis of PESTEL (political, economical, social, technological, environment and legal), 5 Forces (customer, supplier, entrance, substitute, rivalry) and internal analysis of financial ratio, organization infrastructure, porter (1985) value chain analysis is applied. The combination of these analysis eliminates the limitation of each other i.e. PESTEL analysis not captured industry competence for this 5 forces Model is applied. Chapter # 3 Interpretation of Results and Analysis 3. Financial Ratio Analysis The financial ratios are illustrated in figures both statistically and graphical of both organizations TESCO and Sainsbury for the period of three year from 2006 to 2008. The short description of each financial ratio is provides with individual ratio and more focus is given to the analyse result in context strategic analysis to conclude rational research findings. 3.1. Profitability Ratio The profitability ratio analysis includes gross profit margin, net profit margin, return of capital employed and return of equity employed. 3.1.1. Gross Profit Margin Comparing the gross profit margins will show the efficiency of the both companies. The gross profit margin was 7.67% in 05/06 which increased to 8.12% in 06/07 the increase in profit is partly due to increased sales revenue and partly due to the fact that company made huge gain of 258m on its pension fund invested in past(I.e. Exceptional Item) which is makes up 7.5% of gross profit. However gain was one off item as the GPM decrease in 07/08 to same level as in 05/06 that is 7.67% another reason for this decrease is high rate of inflation. These results show that the Tesco is struggling in managing cost of production even though sales have increased over three years time interval but the cost of production increased in line with sales. The results are very critical because the Tesco have launched cost effective retail settings Tesco.com, Tesco online and cost control measure i.e. electronic checkout till and efficient supply chain mechanism that it claims directly linked to store shop floor shelves but the financial result are adverse to its claims to reduce cost. Whereas Gross profit margin of Sainsbury is saturated over time period it was 6.64% in 05/06 which increased to 6.83% in 06/07 and gone down to 5.62% in 07/08. The sales revenue was in it is peak in 07/08 the sale increased 3.80% over the year as compare to the production cost which increased to 5.10% which indicates that Sainsbury is struggling to maintain its low cost of production thereby suffering. Overall, on the grounds of reason mentioned above it is clear that Tesco is attaining high gross margin than Sainsbury overall and in all periods 3.1.2. Net Profit Margin The net profit margin was 4.01% in 05/06, which increased to 4.41% in 06/07 the main reason for this is increase in gross profit as these two ratios are directly related to each other. Other reasons are as follow; in the same year, company discontinued one of the J.V operations and dispose its share from one of the associates, which gave rise to profit of $106m, 25m, which makes 5.6% and 1.33% of net profit. These transactions were made partly in order to pay some of the shorterm loan, which decrease finance cost by $25m, and partly to invest in other companies in order to gain the control. As shortterm loans are expensive source of finance reduction in the fiancà © cost supported by increase of 1.3% in net profit. The net profit was increased in 07/08 by 0.09% to 4.50% the main reason for this is increased sales revenue 9.80% over a year. Other reasons being are as follow: corporation tax has reduced 99m over the year due to prior years adjustment i.e. change in tax rate, more deferred tax assets, foreign exchange movements, pension and etc. Another reason being as property related profit increased 96m that makes up 4.5% of net profit. Despite of these all factors the net profit margin is low. It may be due the reduction of profit share with join ventures and payment of insurance claims to customers. Sainsbury net profit over the three-year period has significantly improved. The net profit margin was .36% in 05/06 that improved to 1.89% in 06/07 the reasons in increase are as follow; increased sales revenue, reduction in admin cost, increase in other as well as finance income. However, Sainsbury did not maintain or improved over the year in 07/08, as it was slightly down to 1.84% the main reason for this even though the sales and operating profit was improved but loss in J.V of 2m and increased finance cost of 25m caused it to be lower than previous year. 3.1.3. Return on Capital Employed This ratio is key measure of return. it measures the amount of earnings from capital provided by shareholders and lender. The ROCE was 15.15% in 05/06 that increased to 15.90% in 06/07 as operating profit increased by 13.9% and the capital employed has also increased by 9.7% the increase in the capital employed is due to issue of new share capital, increase in non- current liabilities, and massive Increase in the deferred tax liabilities. Eventhoug capital employed has increased but it did not increase inline with the operating profit that is also another reason for increase in capital employed. The ROCE in 07/08 has declined to 14.02% despite increase in operating profit of 5.1% and increase in capital employed 19.5%. The main reason for increase in the capital employed are as follow; issue of new share capital worth  £3m, which also give rise to share premium of  £135m, share based payment worth  £199 massive foreign exchange and pension gains etc. Increase in the capital emp loyed is not in line with the increase in operating profit however this increase in the capital employed will be beneficial in order to generate more operating profit as it has already started to show its effect i.e. increase in property related profit is classic example. Comparatively Sainsbury ROCE has fluctuated over the three years period. ROCE in 05/06 was 2.89% well below than Tesco but well above than it previous year where it was negative it has improved to 7.59% in 06/07. The main reason as sales have improved over the year and company also saved  £170m admin cost that shows they are managing cost well and capital employed over the year has decreased to  £1082m that is 15.8% mainly due to payments due to Sainsbury bank and other banks. The ROCE in 07/08 has again decreased to 7.06% as the capital employed has increased due to the massive gain from the pension benefits and increase in provision of deferred tax that has to settle in future. Overall, Tesco results are far more better than Sainsbury. 3.1.4. Return on Equity The return on equity is continuously increasing and has increased by 6.2% over three years and is higher than Salisbury but results are still not remarkable. This is mainly because of repurchase of share equity in the market not because of profitability. The Tesco is pursing the policy to buy back the share from the income coming from the release value of properties. 3.2. Market Ratio The market ratio I have used for my analysis are as follow: Earnings Per share, Dividend Per Share and Interest Cover. 3.2.1. Earning Per Share This ratio determines portion of company profit allocated to the each share. EPS is one of most important variable factor in determining the share price. The EPS of Tesco has been increasing since 2006. The EPS is in year 05/06 was 20.07p it has gone up to 23.84p in 06/07 followed by 26.95p in 07/08. Better profits over the years have increased the EPS another reason for increased EPS in 07/08 as Tesco bought its own share which increase EPS by 11.5%. Sainsbury have performed very well over the three years and increase EPS 82% over 3 year as Sainsbury profit has increased significantly over the three-year period due the reason such as increase in gross profit, net profit etc. Sainsbury net profit margin has increased 80.4% over three years period. Overall, The result indicates that the EPS of Tesco share high than industry benchmark. 3.2.2. Dividend per Share The dividend per share of Tesco increases every year since 2006. In the year 2006, the dividend was 8p in the year 2007 9p and in year 2008 10p. It indicates that the increase in Tesco profitability positively impact on dividend per share. Another reason for increase in 07/08 as Tesco buy back its on share which directly impact on ratio. Dividend per share On the other hand paid by Sainsbury are for same 05/06 and 06/07 of 8p but has increased in 07/08 to 10p which clearly indicates that it wants to pay same amount of dividend as per its competitor in order to attracts more shareholder. 3.2.3. Interest Cover Tesco has sustainable proportion of profit to cover interest. This is mainly because of stable external borrowing and realization of growth investment in diverse products and markets. This was 10.27% in 05/06, which increased to 13.28% in 06/07 and decrease to 12.21% in 07/08. the reason for decrease in 07/08 as PBIT increase by 6% as compare to interest paid which was 13.6% The performance is quite better and stable than Sainsbury. 3.3 Liquidity Ratio Liquidity ratio informs the ability of Tesco to meet its short term liabilities and includes current and acid test ratio. 3.3.1. Current Ratio The current ratio of Tesco is increasing over the time and indicates improving ability of Tesco to have liquid funds to repay short term obligation but it is lower than Sainsbury. The performance is better in a way that since 2006 the Tesco have grown 0.09 form 0.52 to 0.61 but still lower than ideal ratio of which is 1:1. Whereas Sainsbury who have declined from 0.88 to 0.66 which indicates that Sainsbury ability to meet its short term obligation is decreasing. Tesco is strengthening its liquidity power. 3.3.2. Quick/Acid Ratio The quick ratio has increase to 0.38 in 2008 from 0.32% of 2007, which was 0.01 low to 2006. The maintenance of cash and banks is almost according to benchmark competitor but need to be strengthened. 3.4 Leverage Ratios The leverage ratio is being applied to measure risk factor of Tesco and these includes total debt equity ratio, long term debt equity ratio and interest cover. 3.4.1. Total Debt Equity The ratios of debt to equity have increased in 2008 to 68% that was 60% in 2006 followed by 59% in 2007. The change is not critical because it is the effects of equity buy back that have decreased the equity value. It is also justifiable because Tesco is enjoying lower cost of debt than cost of equity. It will readjust when the Tesco will launch free share option for its employee. 3.4.1. Long-term Debt Equity The results illustrate similar progress to total debt to equity but more precisely describes the impact equity buy back. The Tesco still have the opportunity to raise fund through external borrowing without critical leverage. 3.5. Efficiently Ratios Efficiency ratio ratios are used to map to performance to mange stocks, debtors and assets of the Tesco. It includes the debtor turnover ratio, stock turnover ratio, debtor days, stock days, creditor days, net assets turnover and fixed asset turn over. 3.5.1. Debtor Turnover Days Debtor turnover and days are directly related to each other i.e. if one goes up second will go up as well vice versa. The debtor turnover was 44.23T in 05/06, which indicate that debtor days were less, 39.52T in 06/07 and in 07/08 36.08T that is reason in 07/08 on average each customer, took 10.12 days to pay debt. The ratio has moving trends over the time. On the other hand debtor turnover of Sainsbury have increase from 05/06 of 58.19T to 86.59T in 2008, which indicates Sainsbury is able to convert its debtors into cash frequently and enjoying having cash benefit as its debtors day have reduced from 6.27D to 4.22D. It is found that Tesco Debtor management need improvement and the debtor days are critical and need to be minimised. Debtors Days Debtors Turnover 3.5.2. Stock Turnover Days These two ratios also directly related to each other as Debtor turnover and days. This ratio informs how many times the Tesco convert stock in to sales revenue. The stock turnover ratio has decreased since 2006 that is reason why stock days for Tesco have increased over the period. As turnover was 24.88T in 05/06, therefore the days were less. It was 20.40T in 06/07 and 17.97T in 07/08, which increases the days to 20.44. Whereas the stock turnover days ratio of Sainsbury is significantly better than Tesco in all years. Inefficient stock control not only increases the storage and handling costs but also waste which impact on overall profitability. Stock Turnover Stock Days 3.5.3. Creditor Days The creditor ratio informs the ability of Tesco to settle its creditors. It is found that the Tesco creditor days are increasing over the year but always less than Sainsbury. In 2006 the creditor days was 28.47 days, in 2007 30.97 days and in 2008 32.90. This will improve the credibility Tesco to purchase competitively than its competitors. Keeping in view of early payment to creditor it can get competitive purchasing price that help it to over good cheaper in the marketing or attain higher margin. 3.2.4.6. Net Asset Turnover The net asset turnover ratio informs Tesco assets ability to generate sales. It is found that net asset turnover ratio is in 2006 is 2.62, in 2007 is 2.56 and in 2008 is 2.38. The ratio has been decreased in 2008. This reflects the impact of heavy investment made by the Tesco on store refurbishment, electronic tills and infrastructure. The performance is almost equal to Sainsbury. 3.6. Evaluation of Future Prospects and Strategy Analysis 3.6.1. Competitive Strategy The Tesco aims to deliver maximum value and choice to customer to attain their life time loyalty. According to my analysis the Tesco is pursing hybrid strategy simultaneously is struggling to achieve low price and differentiation relative to competitors i.e. Wall Mart-ASDA and Sainsbury but influence of low cost is very high than differentiation. It has launched its low cost brand Tesco value, price discount but on the other hand have premium brand i.e. Tesco Finest. The Tesco declares itself as discounter. The underpinning of Tesco competitive is a relentless attitude lowest cost provider of goods and services to be successful in worlds most competitive markets. Porter Generic Competitive Strategy Presentation of TESCO Competitive Advantage Efficiency Quality Competitve Scope Brand Market Low Cost TESCO Differentiation Narrow Market Focus Cost Focus Differentiation 3.6.2. Growth Strategy The Tesco is pursing consistent strategy since 1997, which strengthen its core UK business and help to drive expansion into new product line and international markets. According to the Ansoff Matrix presentation, the Tesco is operating in all three extremes. It has introduced Non food, Tesco online retailing, launched personal finance, Insurance and enter in telecommunication sectors. The have entered into 12 international markets. Ansoff Matrix Presentation of Tesco Growth Strategy Existing Products New Product Existing Market Market Penetration UK Core (Grocery) Product development Non-Food Tesco Online Personal Finance Insurance Telecom New Market Market Development 12 International Markets Diversification The grocery business of Tesco is the largest contributor of its revue to  £51.8bn which is 40% of total sales, Asia 29% and Europe 25%. Intern