The Supply Chain Network Provides Flexibility For Users

different departments in Almost 21 and its members in the supply-chain network provides flexibility for users to deliver and analyze information to construct a regime to serve customers in a more effective way. For example, Almost 21 might need information from distributors to identify the sales of its design to make pricing adjustment to its product. This approach greatly reduces time to receive the physical documents and therefore allows Almost 21 to make speedy response to the targeted market. From a CRM perspective, the interrelated databases and customers’ participation in the development of data sets up an image that the company emphasizes the significance of customer opinions which helps to develop a long-term relationship with the†¦show more content†¦92-93). From figure 5 and 6, data mining techniques compliment with queries helps to find hidden relationships in the data marts in order to find customer preferences and suggest customized advertisements (Faria 2012, p. 255-256). As a result of acquisition, expansion and business nature, Almost 21 requires to do substantial analytical works in order to source complex data relationships within different customer segments such as the relation of spending behavior against age groups and the relation of product sales against age groups. Therefore, BI applications aims to help supply chain planners to implement product mix decisions which refers to the process of choosing the right product options to the customers for sale (Chowdhury Das 2012, p. 219). Additionally, BI applications advance the performance of Almost 21’s SCM and CRM. From a SCM perspective, the transparency of data, the availability of data mining and OLAP in data warehouse help to construct a more customized product and strengthen the supplier-suppler relationship. Hence, the BI applications facilitate the coordination and decision-making process in the supply-chain network, which in turn benefits the end-users. For example, Zara is a successful firm which had short lead times for new fashion idea because of its comprehensive data analysis, design and product management (Walter 2013). Furthermore, the BI applications help companies to

Case Study Competition In The UK Ice Market Coursework

Essays on Competition in the UK Ice Market Coursework The paper "Competition in the UK Ice Market" is a brilliant example of coursework on marketing.  The Ice Cream industry in the UK market is so competitive in nature by the last decades. It is seen that a scale monopoly situation exists in favor of Birds Eye Wall's Ltd (BEW), a subsidiary of Unilever, which accounts for around two-thirds of the wrapped impulse market and over half of the total impulse market as defined in our terms of reference. We also found that a complex monopoly situation exists in favor of BEW, Nestle UK Ltd and Mars UK Ltd, which between them accounted in 1992 for 88 percent of sales of wrapped impulse products and a lesser but still very large share of the market for all reference products.Ice cream sales in the UK were worth about  £785 million at retail prices,  £275 million of which comprised reference products. These were mostly wrapped impulse products, the market for which is characterized by a high level of branding, and of associated advertising e xpenditure. Unlike other impulse products such as confectionery, impulse ice cream needs refrigerated storage and transport and a freezer cabinet at the point of sale, not merely as a display device but as an essential piece of equipment that has limited capacity and without which the product cannot be stocked at all. Effective distribution is a key aspect of competition, particularly because demand is not only seasonal but subject to extreme short-term fluctuations as the weather changes. Importance was attached also, by both companies; to the assurance, exclusivity gave of economic drop sizes, effective display, and quality control. (Victorian London - Publications - Social Investigation/Journalism - London Labour and the London Poor; 1851, 1861-2; Henry Mayhew, The Victorian Dictionary, compiled by Lee Jackson, http://www.victorianlondon.org, an internet web site.)The market has changed significantly since 1990. Earlier, Wall's and Lyons Maid shared between them all but a small p art of the market. Thereafter the market share of Lyons Maid significantly declined notwithstanding its insistence on freezer exclusivity whilst that of Wall's increased. Mars entered the market in 1989 with a new product relying on quality and an established confectionery reputation. In four years, Mars ice cream achieved representation in about 50 percent of outlets and a market share of about 16 percent in wrapped impulse products in which at least 20 percent in the chocolate bar sector. Mars, like Treats Ice Cream Ltd (Treats), the next largest supplier, drew attention to the effects on the market of the degree of vertical integration achieved by BEW as a result of freezer exclusivity operating in conjunction with its distribution system through concession.Part 2- THE SWOPT ANALYSISBy the time, during the years of operations, BEW, Nestle and Mars seem to have achieved a great deal. However, it appears that much more can be achieved with the kind of resources.

Critical Essay On Sir Arthur Conan Doyle Moriarty Example For Students

Critical Essay On Sir Arthur Conan Doyle Moriarty Sir Arthur Conan Doyle uses many literary devices to convey an impression of suspense and mystery. They are placed throughout the story to ensure that the reader is always guessing as to what happens next. The primary device that Doyle uses is a combination of melodrama and academic writing. The latter is used in abundance with touches of the former to ensure that the reader is not put off at any point. Furthermore, it ensures a sense of realism which makes the mystery much more intense. Doyles academic style can be seen from the very first sentence of the story when he states: Of all the problems, which have been to my friend Mr Sherlock Holmes for solutionà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ Coupled with academic writing is understatement when he writes, At the time the circumstances made a deep impression upon me, and the lapse of two years has hardly served to weaken the effect. Melodrama can be observed from the statement, was so strange in its inception and so dramatic in its detailsà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ Throughout the beginning of the story the credibility of the narrator, Dr Watson, is built up to ensure a relationship of trust between him and the reader. This means that everything he says is instantly believable and this amplifies the mystery and suspense. An example of this is: My practice had steadily increased, and as I happened to live at no very great distance from Paddington Station, I got a few patients from among the officials. Here you can see that Doyle is emphasising Watsons profession. The reader is given the impression that because Watson is a doctor he can be trusted. Furthermore, the reader knows that hes not going to dramatise the events. To ensure that the mystery itself is properly described, no detail is left out and this creates vivid images. The horrific details that Doyle puts across are not dampened in any way and this makes the story seem more believable. He goes to great lengths to describe everything so that a full picture can be constructed without leaving anything to the imagination. Whilst this is a fairly aggressive way of treating the reader, it ensures that he or she sees the story in exactly the right way. It also emphasises the feeling of trust for the narrator since hes sharing so many details. Since the details are so unbelievable in themselves, Doyle ensures that the storyteller, the engineer, tells his story rationally, which ensures its believability. An example of this is the following, rather modest, paragraph spoken by the engineer: Oh, no; not now. I shall have to tell my tale to the police; but, between ourselves, if it were not for the convincing evidence of this wound of mine, I should be surprised if they believed my statement, for it is a very extraordinary one, and I have not much in the way of proof with which to back it up. And, even if they believe me, the clues which I can give them are so vague that it is a question whether justice will be done. In order to further amplify this image created by Doyle, conversation is short, sharp and factual to make sure that only facts are conveyed to the reader so that he or she can make up his or her own mind about whats happening. Doyle doesnt force his opinions on them and this makes it more realistic. An example of this type of conversation is this exchange between Holmes and the engineer: One horse? interjected Holmes. Yes, only one. Did you observe the colour? Yes, I saw it by the sidelights when I was stepping into the carriage. It was chestnut. Tired-looking or fresh? Oh, fresh and glossy. Thank you. .u1906985efc623d6e489cf6b698e8d46a , .u1906985efc623d6e489cf6b698e8d46a .postImageUrl , .u1906985efc623d6e489cf6b698e8d46a .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .u1906985efc623d6e489cf6b698e8d46a , .u1906985efc623d6e489cf6b698e8d46a:hover , .u1906985efc623d6e489cf6b698e8d46a:visited , .u1906985efc623d6e489cf6b698e8d46a:active { border:0!important; } .u1906985efc623d6e489cf6b698e8d46a .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .u1906985efc623d6e489cf6b698e8d46a { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #95A5A6; } .u1906985efc623d6e489cf6b698e8d46a:active , .u1906985efc623d6e489cf6b698e8d46a:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #2C3E50; } .u1906985efc623d6e489cf6b698e8d46a .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative ; } .u1906985efc623d6e489cf6b698e8d46a .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #2980B9; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .u1906985efc623d6e489cf6b698e8d46a .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .u1906985efc623d6e489cf6b698e8d46a .ctaButton { background-color: #7F8C8D!important; color: #2980B9; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://artscolumbia.org/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .u1906985efc623d6e489cf6b698e8d46a:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #34495E!important; } .u1906985efc623d6e489cf6b698e8d46a .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left : 18px; top: 0; } .u1906985efc623d6e489cf6b698e8d46a .u1906985efc623d6e489cf6b698e8d46a-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .u1906985efc623d6e489cf6b698e8d46a:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } READ: Coarse grey EssayI am sorry to have interrupted you. Pray continue your most interesting statement. This is another example of the factual nature that the conversations take. The engineer seems to be telling everything he knows and this makes him much more believable. The very detailed description of the events has another effect. It very gradually builds up the suspense and the reader is allowed to wonder what the mystery could be and what could be so unusual. The engineers statement is greatly lengthened as much as possible to ensure that this happens effectively. The intrigue of this story is supplemented by the odd contrasts between the characters. On the side of the engineer, there is a very respectable professional man, Dr. Watson, who is a stark contrast to the quirky and abnormal private detective, Sherlock Holmes. This quirkiness, that is so unique to Holmes character, adds a further level of realism to the story because its a twist that ensures the story is not two-dimensional. A flat story, that has no abnormalities or odd occurrences and characters, is a boring story. Holmes character ensures that that is not the fate of this story and it gives softens the reader for what oddities are to come towards to end of the book. As was mentioned previously, the engineers statement is lengthened as much as long as possible. It is also riddled with dramatic pauses to build up the suspense even more. A good example of this is the quoted exchange above. It breaks up an otherwise lengthy explanation and increases the suspense by making the reader want to return to the explanation. Lastly, the character of the Colonel Lysander Stark must be discussed. The name in itself gives a sense of intrigue. The reader is at once put on edge about his demeanour. One is at once reminded of a stereotypical colonel, a cruel harsh person with militaristic cruelty at heart. He is depicted as a model villain. He has a German accent, which was and still is a very common nationality for stereotypical villains of stories such as this. From the very beginning, he is described as emaciated, paranormal and above all inhuman the image of death. These qualities can be seen from Doyles description of Stark: à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦a man rather over the middle size but of an exceeding thinness. I do not think that I have ever seen so thin a man. His whole face sharpened away into nose and chin, and the skin of his cheeks was drawn quite tense over his outstanding bones. Yet this emaciation seemed to be his natural habit, and due to no disease, for his eye was bright, his step brisk, and his bearing assured. In conclusion, I will say that using all these devices, Doyle successfully builds up curiosity and hence mystery and intrigue. Using little but heavy description, he is able to build up a powerful image that has the ability to shock the reader into submission. It is, for the most part, instantly believable and this serves the purpose of lulling the reader into a false sense of security. When the whole truth is finally revealed it is ever more vivid and much more successful in entertaining the reader.

Mezirows Theory of Perspective Transformation free essay sample

Mezirow’s process of perspective transformation is often illustrated as linear, additionally; Mezirow characterized ten phases starting with disorienting dilemma and ending with perspective transformation (Mezirow, 1990). Understanding the transformative learning and the disorientating dilemma helps adults appreciate and understand Mezirow’s theory of perspective transformation. The start of my transformation begins with an experience. For example, an experience that I encountered was this past May after graduating from Immaculata University under-graduate program. My disorienting dilemmas begins with choosing the continuation of my education to pursue a Master’s Degree or begin the long and tedious process of job seeking and interviewing in a bleak economy. I believe that my decision is life altering and will only help me pursue a flourishing life. Evidence from Mezirow’s theory and the phases of transformative learning suggests that my dilemma falls under the first process of a disorienting dilemma (Anonymous, n. d. ). After graduation I had a few months to figure out a strategy and implement my plan. We will write a custom essay sample on Mezirows Theory of Perspective Transformation or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page While exploring my options and figuring out a plan I became struck with fear, this fear came from the â€Å"unknown† of my future. To overcome my fear of the â€Å"unknown† I first self-examine who I am. I needed to get a better idea of who I am today and who I want to be tomorrow. After I made my decision to go back to school I began to talk more and more about graduate school with my family and close friends. Once the discussion of me going back to school began, I started to hear about other’s pursuing a graduate degree all around me. For example I play basketball locally in two different leagues. Most of the teams are composed of collage or recently graduated students. After I told my friends in the basketball leagues about my plans of going back to school a few of them also stated that they were applying or already enrolled for graduate school. Hearing other’s committing to furthering their education and the process of enrolling helped calm the fear I had deep inside. Further reassurance was added that others also shared in common the same transformation that I was tackling. This shared transformation between friends falls under Mezirow fourth phase (Anonymous, n. d. ) Once I overcame my fear of the â€Å"unknown† I started to initiate my plan of action which falls under the sixth stage of Mezirow’s theory (Anonymous, n. d. ). My plan started with looking at local schools in the area with either an MBA or MA program in Marketing or Leadership studies. I looked at a few specific schools such as West Chester, Widener, and Immaculata University’s. After researching these schools I applied to them and waited to hear back for good news. Unfortunately I did not get into my first choice of Widener because I was 70 points short of the requirement for my g-mat score. However, I did get accepted into West Chester and Immaculata. After I had gotten accepted into graduate school I felt a sigh of relief that I had accomplished my goal of starting the new path to further my education. When I entered into graduate school this was a completely new experience as well as a new role for myself. I wanted to build up my self-confidence in my new roles and environment to reach my upmost potential. Building up my self-confidence was tough at first but I began to slowly overcome this from the support of my family, classmates, and professors. Progress was slow at first because of the â€Å"unknown† that I was dealing with in a new program and environment. Once I got over my first road bump I really started to take off with self-confidence which falls under Mezirow’s ninth phase (Anonymous, n. d. ). The last phase of Mezirow’s theory is the action of the final component of the transformative learning process (Merriam, Caffarella, Baumgartner, 2007). When I was dealt with my disorientating dilemma I took a delayed action to retort my options and plan. After reality set in that now is the time to make my transformation this was the end of a new beginning. My action to follow through with my choice to further my education is based off of my new found perspective from my disorientating dilemma and Mezirow’s ten phases of transformational learning.

Gravity Model Definition and Examples

Gravity Model Definition and Examples For decades, social scientists have been using a modified version of  Isaac Newtons Law of Gravitation  to predict the movement of people, information, and commodities between cities and even continents. The gravity model, as social scientists refer to the modified law of gravitation, takes into account the population size of two places and their distance. Since larger places attract people, ideas, and commodities more than smaller places and places closer together have a greater attraction, the gravity model incorporates these two features. The relative strength of a bond between two places is determined by multiplying the population of city A by the population of city B and then dividing the product by the distance between the two cities squared. The Gravity Model Population 1 x Population 2_________________________   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  distance ² Examples If we compare the bond between the New York and Los Angeles metropolitan areas, we first multiply their 1998 populations (20,124,377 and 15,781,273, respectively) to get 317,588,287,391,921 and then we divide that number by the  distance  (2462 miles) squared (6,061,444). The result is 52,394,823. We can shorten our math by reducing the numbers to the millions place: 20.12 times 15.78 equals 317.5 and then divide by 6 with a result of 52.9. Now, lets try two metropolitan areas a bit closer: El Paso (Texas) and Tucson (Arizona). We multiply their populations (703,127 and 790,755) to get 556,001,190,885 and then we divide that number by the distance (263 miles) squared (69,169) and the result is 8,038,300. Therefore, the bond between New York and Los Angeles is greater than that of El Paso and Tucson. How about El Paso and Los Angeles? Theyre 712 miles apart, 2.7 times farther than El Paso and Tucson! Well, Los Angeles is so large that it provides a huge gravitational force for El Paso. Their relative force is 21,888,491, a surprising 2.7 times greater than the gravitational force between El Paso and Tucson. While the gravity model was created to anticipate migration between cities (and we can expect that more people migrate between LA and NYC than between El Paso and Tucson), it can also be used to anticipate the traffic between two places, the number of telephone calls, the transportation of goods and mail, and other types of movement between places. The gravity model can also be used to compare the gravitational attraction between two continents, two countries, two states, two counties, or even two neighborhoods within the same city. Some prefer to use the functional distance between cities instead of the actual distance. The functional distance can be the driving distance or can even be flight time between cities. The gravity model was expanded by William J. Reilly in 1931 into Reillys law of retail gravitation to calculate the breaking point between two places where customers will be drawn to one or another of two competing commercial centers. Opponents of the gravity model explain that it can not be confirmed scientifically, that its only based on observation. They also state that the gravity model is an unfair method of predicting movement because its biased toward historic ties and toward the largest population centers. Thus, it can be used to perpetuate the status quo.

The Definition of a Myth

The Definition of a Myth Although it may seem obvious, there is no single, simple answer. Here are some of the common ideas and their short-comings. Following these is a look at what folklorists and psychologists/psychoanalysts take the term to mean. Finally, there is a working definition you may find useful. If Its a Silly Story, It Could Be a Myth Everyone knows what a myth is, right? Its a story featuring centaurs, flying pigs or horses, or return trips to the Land of the Dead or Underworld. Classic compilations of myths include  Bulfinchs  Tales From Mythology  and the lesser known Heroes of Greek Mythology, by Charles J. Kingsley. Obviously, you might argue, a myth is a ridiculous story no one really believes. Maybe sometime, long ago, there were people naive enough to have believed in it, but now we know better. Really? Once you start looking carefully at that so-called definition, it falls apart. Think about your own firmly held beliefs. Perhaps you believe a deity spoke to a man through a burning bush (the story of Moses in the Hebrew Bible). Maybe he performed a miracle to make a tiny amount of food feed a multitude (New Testament). How would you feel if someone labeled them as myths? Youd probably argue and very defensively they arent myths. You might admit you cant prove them to unbelievers, but the stories simply arent as fantastic as myth (said with tones indicating disparagement). A vehement denial doesnt prove one way or another that something is or is not a myth, but you could be right. The story of Pandoras box is said to be a myth, but what makes that any different from a Biblical story such as  Noahs Ark, that is not necessarily considered a myth by a religious Jew or Christian? Even the disproved legend about the axing of a cherry tree by the perennially truth-telling George Washington may count as a myth. The word myth is used in many contexts, but it doesnt seem to have a single meaning. When discussing myth with others, you should determine what they mean in order to have a common frame of reference and avoid hurting someones feelings (unless, of course, you dont care). Myth Could Be Part of a Religion You Dont Believe In Here is how philosopher and psychiatrist James Kern Feiblemanone defines myth:  A  religion in which no one any longer believes.   What is a  myth for one group is truth and part of the cultural identity for another. Myths are stories shared by a group, that are a part of that groups cultural identity- just like family traditions. Most families would be offended to hear their stories described as myths (or lies and tall tales, which probably fit them better than a  myth because a family is generally considered smaller than a cultural group). Myth can also be used as a synonym for a despised religious dogma or, as the quotation above says, a religion in which no one any longer believes. Experts Define Myth Putting a value on myth doesnt help matters. Negative and positive descriptions of the content of myth are not definitions and dont even explain very much. Many have tried to define myth, with only limited success. Lets look at an array of definitions from leading philosophers, psychoanalysts, and other thinkers to see how complicated the seemingly simple term myth actually is: Myths are Origins. Myths are often stories of origins, how the world and everything in it came to be in illo tempore. - Eliade.Myths are Dreams. Sometimes myths are public dreams which, like private dreams, emerge from the unconscious mind. - Freud.Myths are Archetypes. Indeed, myths often reveal the archetypes of the collective unconscious. - Jung.Myths are Metaphysical. Myths orient people to the metaphysical dimension, explain the origins and nature of the cosmos, validate social issues, and, on the psychological plane, address themselves to the innermost depths of the psyche. - Campbell.Myths are Proto-Scientific. Some myths are explanatory, being pre-scientific attempts to interpret the natural world. - Frazer.Myths are Sacred histories. Religious myths are sacred histories. - Eliade.Myths are Stories. Myths are both individual and social in scope, but they are first and foremost stories. - Kirk. A Useful Working Definition of Myth From the above-learned definitions, we can see that myths are important stories. Maybe people believe them. Maybe they dont. Their truth value isnt at issue. Approaching, but not quite reaching an adequate, thorough definition of myth is the following: Myths are stories told by people about people: where they come from, how they handle major disasters, how they cope with what they must and how everything will end. If that isnt everything, what else is there?

Advantages and Disadvantages of Utilizing a Project Labor Agreement Essay

Advantages and Disadvantages of Utilizing a Project Labor Agreement - Essay Example So, they can opt to join or not to do so. First, PLA can help in promoting uniformity in the construction sector. Since it requires the constructors to be members of labor unions, it means that it advocates for equality in salaries, wages, overtime, allowances, working hours, benefits, working rules and conditions adhered to while working on the government-sponsored construction projects. This demonstrates how the agreement can be beneficial to all the parties starting from the main constructor, sub-contractor up to the laborers. Besides, it helps in providing assurance to all the involved contractors that the project would be completed within the shortest time possible. It is possible to attain this because the agreement guarantees a steady and reliable of well trained and highly qualified laborers. At the same time, PLA makes the management of such projects much easier because they are properly coordinated and operated under predictable budgets. In addition, PLA helps in making the work to be smoothly carried out without experiencing challenges like conflict, strikes and go slows which are common in non-unionized firms. Since all the contractors have to be members of trade unions, they are obliged to comply with rules and regulations governing their operations (Tuerck, 2010). Because of this, it can be much easier to resolve conflicts and eradicate the cases of strike that might slow down the construction process. Moreover, PLA can e a good thing for the laborers because it ensures that they are properly empowered. It requires the contractors to provide adequate trainings an apprentice programs for certain classes of employees including the minorities, disabled, women, veterans and all the other underprivileged people in the society. By giving such workers an opportunity to acquire training, they can be able to have personal growth and become more useful and valuable employees in the years to

FILM FORM IN WORLD CINEMA Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

FILM FORM IN WORLD CINEMA - Essay Example The cinema in the 1950s represented the true spirit of Africans; it was at the same time that the West believed that Africa was a country with no history. Most of their histories were locked up in small museums in the Western World itself. Something of the same kind is going on today in countries like India, Iran and Iraq. The cinema that emerged in Africa was not just movies made out of passion but was culturally a strong factor to bring the entire history of Africa under one roof.in fact, Frantz Fanon’s work, On National Consciousness, includes the work a poem called ‘African Dawn’, that was later made into a film called ‘Camp D’Thiarove’, by Ousmane Sembe`ne. Then came ‘The Battle of Algiers’, which was made in 1965 which was a highly influential movie by an Italian Director, Gillo Pontecorvo, This was basically a movie about the Algerians who fought against the French in the attempt to break away from the Colonial Yolk in the 1 950’s to 1962. African Movies were at the time influenced by both Colonialism and Neo-Colonialism since almost all art forms including Poetry, Paintings, Art Works and Songs were influenced by the indigenous culture. For once, art was influenced by the nationalistic spirit and it real function instead of mere western aesthetics. The cinema in Africa was known to be ‘militant fighting cinema’, and worked in opposing the dominant imperialistic rule. The Cinema in Africa represents largely the definition of ‘Towards Third Cinema’, they represent their distinct style and form in almost all their works. It is quite a cinema of opposition as counterpoised to the lavish cinema of the First World. As mentioned earlier, the Third World Cinema has thus earned the name ‘An Imperfect Cinema’ (Roy Ames, 1987). Among the Latin American film makers, Fernando Solanas and Octavio Getino; both Argentinean film-makers, were the key authors of creating the manifesto of ‘Towards a Third Cinema’ with their Cinema Liberacio`n movement.with time the growth of the manifesto was incredible. The talented duo then went on to make a three part, four hours documentary called, ‘'La Hora de los Hornos' [Hour of the Furnaces]. A lot of films got into severe censorship issues since Argentina was under the military dictatorship (M. T. Martin, 1997). This film exhibited major politico activities which exhibited many militant work that dominated the Latin American Scene. The manifesto majorly saw certain anti-colonial struggles of the third world people. These ideas were heavily borrowed by thinkers such as Marx, Fanon and Mao and were all connected to the populist leader of Argentina, General Per`on (Martin M. T. 1997). Moving back to the Cinema’s of Africa, the threads are quite similar to that of

Two People Who Have Great Influence in My Life Essay Example for Free

Two People Who Have Great Influence in My Life Essay Introduction   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   I am what I am. Who I am today was the result of my past experiences in life; hence, experiences that are worth remembering for. I am a person of good value and virtue because of these two great people who have influenced and touched my life in a very significant ways. They are the one who really sacrifice a lot just to give me a better future. They molded me as a person of good morals and dignity as well as a person who love and fear God. These two people that have touched my life are my beloved parents, my dad and mom. I owe my life to them and I will not stop thanking God for giving me such wonderful and loving parents. The intents of this paper are: (1) to figure out how my dad and mom influenced my life in different and similar ways and; (2) know deeper what are their contributions in my life. Discussion   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   My dad is an ideal father to me. When I will have my own family, I would like to be like him. He is a very responsible man. He is very loving and a generous father. He supplies our daily needs and not only that, he always find time to spend quality time with us in spite of his hectic schedules from his work. Every time he got from his work, he frequently brought us presents; they may be small or big but it has great impact in my life because it is not how expensive or cheap the present is but it is the thought that counts. I always hear my father saying â€Å"I love you† to my mother and to us as well. He really shows that we, his family, are very important to him. He treats us every time he receives his salary. I never experience that my father has shouted nor spanked me because of what I did. He disciples my siblings and I in a manner that we will not retaliate because of what he does to us. If I have done something wrong, he just calls me to go to his bedroom so that we can have a talk.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   My mom is the most wonderful mother in the whole world. Truly, she is the light in our home. She is a kind of mother that disciplines us firmly yet gentle. She is just like my father because when my siblings and I have done something wrong, she also calls us to go to her bedroom, if ever my dad is not around to disciplines us, and have a short talk. She is a kind of mom who always consoles us if ever we have something that troubles us. She is a good cook too. She sees to it that we have a good and nutritious meal. She never complains in raising us but indeed she finds it a delight, seeing us feed with her love and care.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   My mom and dad have brought great impact in my life. My father taught me how to be like a man. He taught me how to play sports, working out and stuff like that. We always have a man to man talk and he told me that when I have my own family in the future, I should care my future family the way he takes care of us. And I am pretty sure that I can be like him because that is the kind of family where I am brought up. Well, if others cannot easily get along with their mom because they are boys, I can sincerely say that I can easily approach and get along with my mom. She always tells me that I should love my neighbors as myself and never take advantage on the weaknesses of others. She also reminds me to be a one woman man in the future, just like my father did. Though they teach me in different ways but they have one common denominator and that is to raise me as a person of good value and dignity. III. Conclusion   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   To have a very loving father and mother is such a great blessing from God; a blessing that cannot be exchanged with the wealth of this world. These two people are very precious to me and I am not what I am today without their unending love, support and fair discipline.

The Narrator’s Attitude in The Pugilist at Rest :: Pugilist at Rest Essays

The Narrator’s Attitude in  The Pugilist at Rest  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚      Webster’s Dictionary defines it as a mental position or the feeling one has for oneself.   In life our attitudes help define who you are or what you are like.   Attitude helps create your personality and how you would react under certain situations.   In â€Å"The Pugilist at Rest† Thom Jones tells us of one man’s attitude and how adversity and a disability changed his attitude completely.   The narrator’s attitude under goes changes from boot camp, bludgeoning Hey Baby,   recon Marine duty and finally obtaining Dostoyevski’s epilepsy from a boxing match.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The narrator of the story undergoes changes in boot camp that will forever change his attitude towards life and his fellow Marines.   The story begins by showing a young foolish narrator that only wanted to charge into battle.   The narrator wanted to be all he could be and strived to become the best United States Marine Corp soldier the United States has to offer.   Jones describes the narrator’s determination and ambitions as, â€Å"Whenever danger appears on the scene, truth and justice will be served as I slip into the green U.S.M.C. utility uniform and become Earth’s greatest hero.† (485).   The narrator’s attitude would be altered drastically by a motivating speech that his Sergeant delivered to the boot camp.   Jones describes this speech as, â€Å"You men are going off to war, and it’s not a pretty thing,’ etc. & etc., ‘and if Luke the Gook knocks down one of your buddies, a fellow Marine, you are going to risk your life and go in and get that Marine and you are going to bring him out.   Not because I said so. No!   You are going after that Marine because you are a Marine, a member of the most elite fighting force in the world, and that man out thee who’s gone down is a Marine, and he’s your buddy.   He is you brother!   Once you are a Marine, you are always a Marine and you will never let another Marine down.’ Etc. & etc.    ‘You can take a Marine out of the Corps but you can’t take the Corps out of a Marine.’ Etc. & etc.   At the time it seemed to me a very good speech,

Cinderella Not a Love Story Essay

A very common fairy tale that we have grown up hearing is the story of Cinderella, a poor girl whose dreams of marrying a prince and living happily ever after, finally comes true after many years of wishing upon a star. Individual writers of the â€Å"Cinderella† story may alter the story, but the general concept is always the same. This classic story has been told to millions of children and is known as a great romance. A romance is supposed to have suspense, anticipation, and a deep connection between the two characters that have and/or are falling in love with each other, and Cinderella is none of those. â€Å"Cinderella† is a great rags to riches story, but it is far from a romance. Cinderella is a 17 to 22 year old girl that suffers from an abusive home life. The abuse Cinderella suffers from is mainly verbal; however, some things in the story could defiantly be considered physical abuse. The abusive is inflicted by her two step-sisters and her step-mother. Since Cinderella’s mother died when she was a small child it is assumed that she looks to her step-mother for approval the way young girls look to their mother for approval. Depending on the version of â€Å"Cinderella† you read her father is either dead, or he is a spineless man who does not protect her from her step-mother and step-sisters. Do to the abusive living environment, Cinderella is looking for a way out, like any young girl would be, that is required to do all the house hold chores and is treated poorly. When Cinderella hears about the ball she wants to go, but deep inside her she knows that she will not be allowed. In Charles Perrault’s â€Å"Cinderillon† a fairy godm other appears, that helps Cinderella in going to the ball. Cinderella knows that if she makes a good impression on the prince that he may want to marry her, which would give her a way to escape her horrible living environment. In Perrault’s and may other version of â€Å"Cinderella† the prince and Cinderella dance until midnight they do not engage in any conversation nor do they kiss. They only simple of affection here is that the prince does not allow anyone to cut in there dancing. When the clock sticks midnight Cinderella leaves quickly because all the fairy godmothers magic is about to wear off. Cinderella accidently leaves behind a glass slipper. If Cinderella didn’t lose the glass slipper the story would be over. That does not show true love. The prince vows to marry the women the glass slipper fits. It’s hard to believe that in the whole kingdom that the slipper wouldn’t fit anyone else. A few things to think about here are what would have happened if the slipper did fit another and what if the slipper was not left. It is hard to believe that the prince loves Cinderella if he cannot recognize her without the glass slipper fitting her foot. In modern day that would be like saying that one’s husband cannot recognize her without her makeup on. If you love someone to the point that you want to share your life entire life with them then you should be able to recognize them regardless of minor changes such as dressed-up or just done rolling in the dirt.

Laptops in the Classroom Essay

The essay â€Å"Laptops in the Classroom? No Problem† by Elena Choy, states that banning laptops in the classroom in not the answer. I agree with Choy because with laptops in a classroom, students can access the internet and this is a great tool for research and also a means of communication by using tools like chats, e-mails and forums. With the arrival of the internet we were confronted with new possibilities, challenges and uncertainties in the process of learning and teaching. How can students and teachers adapt to a learning process involving a technology that is becoming increasingly sophisticated, and more challenging? For me, teaching, in a broad context, is to select and organize information in order to transform it into knowledge. Laptops can facilitate individual and group research as well as the exchange of ideas between teachers, their colleagues and their students. Using laptops to access the internet provides students with an exchange of experiences, questions, materials, personal exchanges, both of whom are geographically near and far. Laptops can help teachers to better prepare their class by expanding the ways to teach, to modify the evaluation process and communication with students and colleagues. Choy lists many factors in favor of banning laptops in the classroom: Let me try to give a reasoned statement of my position, a statement that will take account of the contrary position. In fact, I’ll begin with what I take to be the arguments in favor of banning laptops. I believe the chief argument are these: (1) the upraised lids of laptops distract the instructor, and they often prevent the instructor from making eye contact with the students; (2) laptops distract other students, who cannot help but see what is on screens – for instance video games; (3) students who use laptops to take notes overly extensive notes, so they are doing stenography rather than thinking – rather, one might almost say, than paying real attention to the significant content of the course; (4) because they are so busy taking notes, laptops users tend not to participate in whatever discussion there may be in the course because they are too busy taking notes (Choy 272). Teachers need to be prepared to use laptops and new technologies in the classroom, because this will increase the performance of students and overcome their difficulties and the idea to â€Å"Ban laptops chiefly comes not from students but from professors [because] they are disturbed by the lack of â€Å"eye-contact† (Choy 273). Working with paper and pencil with student in the 21st century creates conflicts and in some situations can lead the student and teacher to reflect on and question the pedagogical practices, enabling a change in attitude of the teacher. For me, I believe that the ideal learning environment is one in which subject and object is in constant change, allowing the construction of knowledge of both. Currently there are several learning environments that are being developed and supported this interaction between the students and teachers like, and may be used both in classroom situations, so as to support all actions taken by teachers during the teaching process, as the record their difficulties, doubts, discussions, opinions, allowing them a constant construction and reconstruction of their actions and the teaching clues to its interventions. The technology used in school should be facing real problems and difficulties of the majority in order to improve the quality of education, linked to the objectives and principles of the â€Å"old school† ways of teaching. Society is increasingly technological every day and it is necessary to reform the school and the education in order to educated the student to master the new language used by the computer as well as the need for the teacher to perfect these new techniques. Choy states that there will come a day that may jeopardize the future of the relationship between the professor and the student. I come to a dangerous point, I think that the chief reason instructors suggest that laptops be banned is one that they fear that most students who use laptops are not taking notes, but are engaged in activities unrelated to the course – instant messaging, e-mailing, shopping, palying poker and so on (Choy 274). Unfortunately many teachers still do not know how to use the laptops; the first step is to learn how to do this because â€Å"if the instructor is so boring that that students use laptops to shop and to write letters, well when the laptops are banned the students will probably bring in crossword puzzles or exercises from other courses† (Choy 274) than something is wrong with the teacher. One must know what he can do, and then what to do with it. This does not mean that we know everything about laptops. First it is necessary to have certain knowledge with the most frequently used features such as the text editor, because the rest are learning a little bit every day. Also, learn to send and receive emails and surf the internet to know are prerequisites for anyone who wants to use the laptop in the classroom and learn to integrate the laptops as part of their lesson, in this way they can engage the students and keep their attention. We must remember that the laptop in the classroom will not replace teachers; it will only help the student in several ways, transforming the classroom into a stimulating and attractive environment for students to develop their reasoning and creativity, thus contributing to helping them become autonomous learners. To make good use of the laptop in the classroom, the teacher must prepare and plan their activities with the students so that the result of this proposed work is achieved with this new technology.

5 New Years Resolutions Mark Zuckerberg Made That Can Inspire You

5 New Years Resolutions Mark Zuckerberg Made That Can Inspire You By any stretch, Mark Zuckerberg is one successful guy. He has more money than most of us can even conceive of, he spends a lot of that money and time on philanthropic efforts, and- oh yeah- he runs the biggest social networking company in the world. Yet even from his vantage point at the top of the world, there’s room for self-improvement. Zuckerberg has made some strong New Year’s resolutions in the past. And although they may be a little extreme for someone with more modest means and less time available, we can learn a lot from his approach.Here are some of his past years’ resolutions (or â€Å"challenges†), and what we can take from them.1. â€Å"Learning to speak Mandarin.†Becoming fluent in a challenging language may not be super-accessible to someone juggling a job, a family, and daily obligations without a full-time language tutor. But you can certainly find time to learn a new skill this year.2. â€Å"Writing a thank you note each day to so meone who made the world better.†If you have time to write a flowery thank you note to Gandhi or Elvis every day this year, great. If you don’t, just saying â€Å"thank you† to someone each day is great, too. You could make a coworker’s day by thanking him for something that might ordinarily go unnoticed. Being thankful for the smaller things (even when bigger things are going wrong) might also help you feel less stressed at work.3. â€Å"Being a vegetarian (or only eating meat if I killed the animal myself).†Again, this one could be a very large commitment, depending on how much you love bacon. But really, it could be any healthy habit that makes you more mindful. Maybe it’s 10  minutes of yoga at lunch. Maybe it’s going to a spin class after work to decompress. This one could also be about self-accountability and embracing the choices you make in the workplace, instead of looking for the nearest coworker to throw under the bus.4. à ¢â‚¬Å"Wearing a tie every day.†When I saw this one, I thought of the old adage, â€Å"dress for the job you want.† Even as society and workplaces have gotten more casual, there’s some merit in this one. Taking an extra step to look good for work can make you feel sharper and more ready for the day.5. â€Å"Meeting one new person who doesn’t work at Facebook every day.†This challenge is about building your network, social and professional. Getting out there and making connections is one of the best things you can do to make your year brighter. Best case, you’ve created relationships that could take your career to the next level. Worst case, you’ve widened your world a little bit.So what do you think? Are you up for these challenges, or ones like them?This article is part of Bulk Up Your Career in 2017  campaign. Access the entire guide here to help you succeed in 2017.

Beneficios de los indocumentados en California

Beneficios de los indocumentados en California El estado de California es el que cuenta con un mayor nà ºmero de inmigrantes indocumentados. Reconociendo este hecho, a lo largo de los aà ±os ha aprobado leyes que reconocen derechos y beneficios a estos miembros de su comunidad. Licencia de manejar Los indocumentados que pueden probar residencia en California pueden solicitar una licencia de manejar.   Este documento, junto con la matrà ­cula consular, son importantes a la hora de probar la identificacià ³n de una persona. Sin embargo, este à ºltimo debe llevarse con precaucià ³n en los lugares en los que sugerir que se est en EE.UU. en situacià ³n de indocumentado puede ser peligroso. Licencias profesionales La ley que se conoce como Senate Bill 1159 establece que los indocumentados tienen derecho a sacar licencias profesionales para desarrollar sus profesiones, como por ejemplo, dentista, enfermera, etc. Esta ley es consecuencia de la lucha de Sergio Garcà ­a, quien ganà ³ el reconocimiento de la Corte Suprema de California para obtener la licencia de abogado. Ayudas para los estudios universitarios La California Dream Act autoriza a que los estudiantes indocumentados que llegaron a Estados Unidos antes de cumplir los 16 aà ±os de edad a que puedan beneficiarse de becas pagadas con fondos pà ºblicos y a pagar in state tuition en las universidades pà ºblicas. Asimismo, el State Dream Loan Program ha creado fondos para que los indocumentados que estudian en uno de los dos sistemas de universidades pà ºblicas de California tengan acceso a prà ©stamos. Por ley no pueden beneficiarse de prà ©stamos federales y tambià ©n estn excluidos de la mayorà ­a otorgado por organizaciones privadas. Tambià ©n pueden beneficiarse de becas, esto à ºltimo al igual que ocurre en el resto de Estados Unidos. Y, si no obtienen suficientes recursos econà ³micos pueden considerar la opcià ³n de comenzar sus estudios universitarios en un colegio comunitario. En los siguientes artà ­culso se brinda informacià ³n sobre ello: Las ventajas de estudiar en un Community CollegeBecas para Dreamers13 universidades de à ©lite que becan a estudiantes internacionales e indocumentados Ciudades Santuario California es el estado con ms ciudades santuario. En ellas, las autoridades locales no preguntan sobre el estatus migratorio de las personas con lo que no hay distinciones entre ciudadanos americanos, residentes permanentes e indocumentados a la hora de calificar por ciertos beneficios. Este es el listado de ciudades santuario en California. Salud Por ley los inmigrantes indocumentados no pueden beneficiarse de Obamacare (ACA, por sus siglas en inglà ©s), ni siquiera los muchachos a los que se les ha aprobado la Accià ³n Diferida (DACA, por sus siglas en inglà ©s). Asimismo por ley no pueden beneficiarse de programas de salud financiados con fondos pà ºblicos, esto hace que en la mayorà ­a de los estados en USA no puedan tener derecho a Medicaid. Sin embargo la situacià ³n es distinta en California ya que todos los fondos proceden del estado. Asà ­: Sin embargo jà ³venes con DACA podrà ­an enrolarse en Medi-Cal (el Medicaid de California), si tienen pocos recursos econà ³micos. Adems, algunos condados brindan asistencia sanitaria a su poblacià ³n ms vulnerable sin importar el estatus legal. Y a partir de mayo de 2016 se ampliar Medi-Cal para cubrir a indocumentados de escasos recursos econà ³micos. En el campo de la cobertura sanitaria en todo Estados Unidos el programa WIC brinda ayuda a la nutricià ³n a mujeres embarazadas o lactantes y los bebà ©s e infantes, sin que importe el estado migratorio. Y las salas de emergencia de los hospitales (ER) tienen obligacià ³n de aceptar los pacientes cuyas vidas corran peligro hasta que se estabilizan, aunque no tengan papeles, seguro mà ©dico o tarjetas de crà ©dito. Ayuda econà ³mica para asesorà ­a legal Por ley, el estado de California ha dado $3 millones a organizaciones sin fines de lucro que brindan ayuda legal a los menores centroamericanos detenidos en la frontera.   Derechos laborales Este es el salario mà ­nimo que aplica a nivel federal y en cada estado, incluido California. Los indocumentados tambià ©n tienen derecho a que se le respete. Y esto es lo que se puede hacer en casos de abusos. Adems, al igual que en el resto de Estados Unidos, las và ­ctimas de fraudes migratorios pueden reportarlos. PRUCOL Los inmigrantes indocumentados en estatus PRUCOL pueden obtener en el estado de California acceso a ms beneficios. Disfrutar California En el sur de California se encuentra Disneyland, estas son 7 recomendaciones para comprar boletos ms baratos. A tener en cuenta A veces la vida en Estados Unidos puede ser muy dura. Si has tenido pensamientos suicidas o sabes de quià ©n los tiene, por favor, solicitar ayuda gratis y en espaà ±ol. No importa el estatus migratorio. Este es un artà ­culo informativo. No es asesorà ­a legal.

English Legal System and Skills Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

English Legal System and Skills - Essay Example n her statement, Rose says that she did not suspect that her brother was doing anything criminal, but that she had become wary of the kinds of people he was keeping company with at the gym. Rose must realize that if this suspicion about the kind of people her brother was keeping can be related the criminal act of the money. In Regina v Da Silva (2006)1, the court held that suspicion does not necessarily have to be knowledge ad that if there was a small doubt, this can be counted as suspicion. Rose can however feel safe as long as she can prove that due to her brothers good job, she never suspected that he could be involved in such a case and that it was also possible that he could afford that kind of money. Sarah may have a criminal responsibility of aiding and abetting crime, according to section 93A (1)(a) of the criminal justice act 1988 UK. It is clear that she was aware that her uncle John was having financial issues at the time and that he was desperate to resolve his problems. It can be argued that since Sarah knew that her uncle was having financial problems and that she was in charge of a charity, and this can be said to have been enough ground for a reasonable person to suspect that something was wrong. She could also have questioned the motive of her uncle requiring her to keep the money for her instead of him keeping in his bank account. In Regina v Da Silva (2006)2, the court held that the appellant was guilty because she had enough grounds to suspect that her husband was having criminal activity or that the money that was being deposited in her account by her husband had been acquired illegally. The same case can be applied in Sarah’s case because she must have sus pected that her uncle who was going through financial problems could not have acquired the money in proper

Relation between Race and Social Inequality in the United States Assignment

Relation between Race and Social Inequality in the United States - Assignment Example The original grouping of people into races was valid as a taxonomy concept. There were different races such as Negroid, Caucasians, Asiatic, Polynesians, Xanthochroi and so on (Lewis, 1990). The term Ethnicity refers to the imaginary, informal and formal groupings that are made to club people with certain common features such as geographic location, language, religion and so on. Accordingly, we have people from different ethnicities such as Arabs, Jews, Whites, Hispanic, African Americans, Asians and so on. An ethnic group may have people from different races, religions and physical features (Omni, 1986). The terms race and ethnicity by themselves are innocuous and can be regarded as medical and sociological terms. However, unfortunately, dominant whites in USA started using these terms in a derogatory and insulting manner in the early 17th century, leading to the beginning of social inequalities. The white settlers of USA began treating the native Indians as mentally and socially inferior who were not worthy of being considered as human. This was a deliberate attempt to grab the lands of the native Indians by branding them as worthless and socially inferior to the whites. Later when the plantations came up, Africans were brought into the country as slaves. The dominant whites then usurped the rights of their slaves, calling them racially inferior beings that were fit to work only as slaves. Social inequality is more archaic since it allows the dominant race members to practice discrimination against people of their own race and ethnicity. Therefore, it can be expected that a rich wh ite would discriminate against a poor white, but not with as much severity as he would discriminate against a poor African American (Oliver, 1997). The proliferation of race and ethnicity has unfortunately given rise to racism, racial stereotyping and other ills. African Americans or blacks are regarded as

Development of a Policy Document Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Development of a Policy Document - Essay Example This essay stresses that the first of the non-physical elements is that clinical staff likely to be exposed to the infection during the pandemic must be given anti-viral vaccinations to boost their immunity to reduce their contracting the infection. Such a step is recommended by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices of the United States of America as vaccination is the primary prevention method. In addition to the anti viral vaccine to boost the prevention steps all clinical staff must go on an antiviral drug regime. Anyone of the antiviral drugs of oseltamivir, zanamivir, amantadine or rimantadine may be used for this purpose (Plans, 2008). In spite of all these measures, should a clinical staff suspect signs of influenza, then the clinical staff should remain at home and not come to work reducing the risk of transmission of the infection. The normal period during which it is possible to transmit the infection is five days and so this isolation period should be for a mini mal period of five days This paper makes a conclusion that the potential risk for an influenza pandemic is high and can occur at any time. Developing policy documents to address the various aspects of an influenza pandemic is thus a real concern. Clinical staffs are at a high risk for contracting the infection due to the nature of their work. This paper develops a policy document with the objective of minimizing the risk of clinical staff contracting the infection as they go about their job functions.

Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Technology Impact

Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Technology Impact THE IMPACT OF CUSTOMER RELATIONSHIP MANAGEMENT TECHNOLOGY ON INFORMATION AND STRATEGY IN THE RETAIL Industry EXECUTIVE SUMMARY: This report examines CRMs impact on information use and strategy in the retail sector. Regarding CRMs impact on information use the reports reveal that CRMs data warehousing, automation, mining, knowledge management and knowledge sharing capabilities have significantly impacted how organisations retain, share and disseminate information to relevant areas of the business. Key information on buying trends, customer profiles can be elicited so that appropriate modifications can be made regarding pricing, product, promotional and other elements to provide enhanced products and services. CRM, for many retail organisations, has meant information is now used as a source of competitive advantage. Examining CRMs impact on strategy, the report illustrates through the MIT90s framework that strategic alignment between CRM technology and the organisations structure, its strategy, its people and culture is essential for technology to be integrated effectively. The reports findings reveal numerous barriers to CRM. These centre on an over focus on the technical-requirements than on business strategy, a lack of cross-functional coordination, failure to support monitor and evaluate CRM performance, an unreceptive organisational culture to technological change and an inability to see CRM implementation from a holistic approach. An unwillingness to share information and knowledge was also highlighted as a potential inhibitor to unlocking CRM potential. Evidence illustrates that barriers essentially fall under a strategic misalignment between technology, structure, strategy or culture of an organisation. In response, a number of recommendations to aid retail organisations in unlocking CRM potential are provided. These include: a holistic perspective towards CRM implementation; a focus on strategic alignment between CRM and the organisations strategy, structure, individuals and culture; a CRM strategy, outlining its strategic objectives; understan ding the organisations data needs; encouraging organisational agility to provide a more adaptable structure that CRM technology can be integrated more easily into; introducing tailored recruitment and training programs to foster the right CRM competencies backed with an effective incentive system and the facilitating a communal culture organisational culture emphasising teamwork, empowerment, communication, innovation and a strong customer orientation. INTRODUCTION: With managing customer relationships now central to organisational success (Kohli et al, 2001; OHalloran, 2003; Nguyen et al, 2007), developing long-term customer relationships through user enabling Customer Relationship Management (CRM) technology has moved to the ‘top of the corporate priority list for many retail organisations (Smith, 2006:87). But what precisely are the direct implications CRM has on information and on strategy? and why is that many CRM projects in the past have failed? What can retail organisations do to ensure CRM success? It is these areas that this report seeks to explore within a retail sector context. The author has selected to investigate these areas in a retail sector context due to its sheer growth, impact and scale of usage within this industry (Anon, 2009). It has revolutionised the way retail companies utilise data to identify key information trends and thus elicit and apply this knowledge to potentially increase profits (Miller, 1999). The repo rts main body is therefore split into two sections, with section one examining the impact CRM technology has on information use and section two, using the MIT90s framework, exploring the potential consequences CRM has on strategy for retail organisations. Lastly, barriers associated to successful CRM implementation are considered and recommendations presented as to how retail organisations can fully unlock and capitalise on their CRM capabilities. SECTION 1: USE OF TECHNOLOGY The following section provides an explanation of CRM from a theoretical standpoint, through an analysis of literature definitions and a practical one, in terms of hardware, software and data structures. 1.1 Explanation of Technology The range of CRM definitions emerging over the years have provided many interpretations of what precisely CRM is and does (McKie, 2000). Broader, arguably looser definitions view CRM as a natural progression from relationship marketing (Light, 2001), where ‘information systems†¦enable organisations to realise a customer focus (Bull, 2005:593). Richer, complex definitions view CRM technology enabling organisations via the utilisation of customer related information to ‘foster closer relationships with their customers (Levine, 2000; Hsieh, 2009:416). More specifically, McNally (2007:169) defines CRM as a ‘strategic process addressing all aspects associated with identifying customers, creating customer knowledge, building customer relationships, and shaping organisation and product perceptions. Nguyen (et al, 2007:103) echoes this, but provides a more simplified version, ‘CRM is a strategic process that helps companies better understand their customers needs so they can provide these needs to their customers at the right time while improving the companys processes. The emphasis on strategic process in the former two definitions fits particularly well when explaining how CRM works in the retail sector in terms of hardware, software and data structures. Here transactional data from EPOS sales systems, web systems, sales contact systems systems and loyalty schemes (data) through automated data capture is sent to the client server mainframe at head office (hardware) where an analysis of relationships (using software) is conducted (Mutch, 2008). It is then data warehoused and structured in a way that allows the user (with the use of CRM tools) to extract patterns and relationships on important trends, such as information on particular customer profile groups and their purchasing habits, average spend, preference for offers etc. This can then be utilised to identify potential ways of improving profitability and disseminated back to relevant departments. 1.2 Impact of CRM on Information use in the Retail Sector The following section analyses CRM technologys impact on information use in the retail sector. Information here is broken down into three main elements: data; being raw statistics, symbols, numbers, information; processed data considered and knowledge; the application of data and information (Beynon-Davies, 2009). The relationship between one another is also presented throughout. 1.2.1 Impact of CRM on data use A. Provided more efficient and effective use of data, through warehousing, mining and cross-functional integration. CRMs capability for integrating multiple databases across different areas of the retail organisation has impacted data use in the sense that it has enabled users to have access to real time, relevant and accurate customer data. Fallon (2008) and Kaplan (2009) indicate that CRM allows retail companies to absorb raw customer data from multiple sources and integrate it into a centralised CRM system. There it is warehoused and later mined so important trends and information can be elicited and utilised (as applied knowledge) to improve customer relationships (Park and Kim, 2003; Chowdhury, 2009). Where CRMs impact on data use lies is that through data warehousing, users with the aid of CRM mining tools, can analyse masses of real time transactional data such as sales amount, transaction time, place and buyer and non-transactional data, such as customer inquiries/feedback and separate this out into key information on product lines, pricing and customer profile and trends, down to each spe cific retail department and individual store (Miller, 1999). They can then filter back important information and knowledge to management and staff so that the right people at different organisational levels have the necessary know-how to provide enhanced levels of customer service, solve problems and increase profitability (Park and Kim, 2003). B. Negatively impact as a form of customers surveillance Amid growing concerns over data sensitivity and the increasing cross-referencing sale of data CRM has negatively impacted data use (Bodenberg, 2001: Mutch 2008). Literature indicates that CRM technology, with its capability to collect vast amounts of customer data for own strategic purposes, has led to a mass surveillance and monitoring of customer behaviour (Park and Kim, 2003). Consequently, data access and exchange has become more restricted due to stringent data protection legislation and company guidelines over the storage, access and lawful use of personnel customer information (Mutch, 2008). 1.2.2 Impact of CRM on information use A. Information now used as a source of competitive advantage†¦using real time data and information enable a real time response A CRM system allows retail organisations to pull all the transactional and non transactional data together and through the use of CRM tools, extracts key information critical to help coordinate sales, marketing, and customer service departments to better and faster serve customers needs (Smith 2006). In the retail industry CRM has particularly impacted on the way information is used to formulate customer profiles. Organisations can now quickly identify who there customers are, what they buy, how often, the quantities in which they buy etc and use this information to modify pricing, product or service offerings and other elements such as customer service to create an in-depth understanding of customer needs and provide fair value to all customers (Park and Kim, 2003). Put simply, CRM has impacted information use in that users can quickly provide comprehensive summary reports on critical business information to make informed decisions and responses to reduce costs and increase profitab ility at a much faster rate (McLuhan, 2001). 1.1.3 Impact of CRM on how knowledge is used A. CRM impacts on organisations potential for improving knowledge retention, management and sharing†¦.knowledge as a resource Literature advocates that CRM has enhanced organisations ability to share and utilise knowledge (Krebs, 1998; Fan and Ku, 2010). Reychav (2009:235) concurs CRM has improved ‘employees ability to share knowledge both tacit and explicit and thus develop a customer orientation right throughout the business. This is supported by Krebs (1998) although he argues that codifying and storing tacit knowledge to be a much more intricate process. Irrespective, a wealth of evidence indicates CRM has changed the way knowledge is used in terms of how it is shared (Krebs, 1998). For example, in the retail sector, knowledge on particular buying habits of customer groups can be stored on a CRM system at head office where it is accessed by relevant departments (marketing, accounts, sales) who design appropriate promotional deals or joint offers on product lines to increase sales and profitability. This ‘knowledge can than be disseminated to appropriate retail outlets/stores to be implemente d. SECTION 2: STRATEGY The following section examines CRMs impact on strategy within the retail sector and begins with a short outline of the key issues of CRM that prevent CRM from fulfilling its potential capabilities in practice. These are conceptualised in the following sections using Scott-Mortons (1991) MIT90s framework (see below), which stresses strategic alignment and integration of CRM technology within all areas of the business is essential to capitalise on CRM potential. 2.1 Context The key issues of implementing CRM technology and its impact on business strategy are: 1. Strategic alignment between CRM technology and business retail strategy 2. Ensuring the organisations structure works synonymously with CRM technology 3. The provision of individual training, recruitment and within this revised job descriptions to ensure the development of necessary competencies to maximise CRM potential 4. How organisational culture positively or negatively affect an organisations and its employees ability to use information elicited from CRM technology These are now explored in more depth in the following sections using the MIT90s framework model illustrated below. 2.1 Strategy History is littered with past CRM failures, Carsdirect.com (Anon, 2000) and Lexmark (Songini, 2002) being perfect examples. McLuhan (2001) and Ramsey (2003) indicate most CRM failures are due to focusing overly on technical-requirements (technological determinism) rather than on the business strategy and the organisations needs. A lack of cross functional coordination, failure to support monitor and evaluate CRM performance and a failure to approach CRM implementation from a holistic approach are some of the other cited reasons as to why CRM projects fail (McLuhan, 2001; Bull, 2003). Other academics argue an unreceptive organisational culture to technological change coupled with an unwillingness to share information and knowledge as inhibitors to unlocking the potential benefits that CRM offers (Kotorov, 2003; Pavlovets, 2005). Essentially the problems cited by literature come under the central issue of strategic alignment, a notion stressed in Henderson and Venkatramans (1993) Strategic Alignment Model and Turbans, et al. (1999) cultural model, though arguably conceptualised to greater effect in the MIT90s framework (Scott-Morton, 1991) which is predominantly the main framework used in this report. The model advocates that for IT change to be successful, technology must be aligned to the company as a whole, so that organisational strategy, infrastructure, existing technology, individual roles, training programs, management and the organisations culture work synonymously with each other (Scott-Morton, 1991). Macredie et al. (1998), supports this perspective, concurring that CRM success is dependent on alignment between organisational strategy, structure and culture. Misalignment between these areas prevents CRM from fully delivering its potential capabilities. For example, if a retail organisations structur e restricts CRM access to marketing and senior management only than it is unlikely that crucial information will be fed down to middle management and employees at operational level (those who interact with customers on a day to day basis) who require it most. Conversely, if the CRM system is not complemented with a recruitment and training policy that is designed to source and develop core competencies required to use CRM technology efectively, than it will most likely fail. Thus, a strategically aligned approach to information strategy (see appendix figure 1), ensuring information systems strategy, information management strategy, information technology strategy and information resource strategy are connected to each other and the overall organizations strategy is a critical success factor for integrating CRM effectively throughout the organisation (Earl, 2000; Van Bentum, 2005). The following sections now turn towards ensuring alignment within other areas of the organisation. 2.2 Structure Numerous writers cite the sheer importance of aligning organisational structure with strategy, technology, the environment and its organisational culture (Mintzberg, 1989; Miller, 1989). In other words, to maximise your IT capabilities, an organisations structure must fit with its environment (Burns and Stalker, 1991; Senge, 1994). Over the years, this has led many retail organisations to shift away from traditional large-scale bureaucratic and hierarchical organisational forms to less traditional divsionalised structures facilitated by business process reengineering. However, evidence suggests such structures not only lose the benefits associated with large-scale bureaucratic organisations such as functional specialism and data interpretation from middle level managers, but also often fail to build strong links between divisions of the business, leading to a loss of shared core competencies and knowledge (Mabey, Saloman and Storey, 2001; Mutch, 2008). Literature is therefore indicat ive neither structure is particularly appropriate when integrating CRM technology. More recently, de-structured organisational forms, with an emphasis on high performance, knowledge creation and the empowerment of teams reflect a more suitable organisational structure in aiding retail organisations to elicit the potential their CRM application offers (Mabey, Saloman and Storey, 2001). Here, structure is built with speed, integration, innovation and flexibility in mind and an adhoc, boundaryless approach more receptive to technology change is instilled throughout the organisation. This encourages a free flowing information exchange throughout strategic, tactical and operational levels, structuring the organisation in a way where senior and middle management staff at retail organisations disseminate key important information and knowledge to employees at operational level. Where CRM role comes into play, is that it can be used to support these networked/lattice forms of organisations (Zuboff, 1988). It therefore appears that organisational agility, termed by Gunneson (1997:3) as ‘a flat, fast, flexible organisation, with continuous interaction, support, and communications among various disciplines, with highly decentralized management that recognises what its knowledge base is and how it can manage that base most effectively, is an essential component of structure. To achieve this, retail organisations must adopt a lattice/network like structure that has a mix of stability and flexibility to support the organisations capabilities and the empowerment of team working through cross functional teams with a focus on developing the collective intelligence of teams to meet the complexity of the dynamic environment (see Lorrimar, 1999). Such a structure is typically flat with large spans of control, features lateral communication and helps develop and maintain a project teamwork ethos and customer focus to ensure decision-making is guided by customer satisfaction (Friesen, 2005:33 ). This increases employee involvement, enhances communication, speeds up decision-making and breaks down boundaries thus enhancing flexibility and capacity to adapt (Clayton, 2006). 2.3 Roles Literature advocates that it is organisational peoples use of CRM, not the technology itself, which is where organisations truly capitalise on opening up CRMs full capabilities (McNally, 2007:169). Accordingly, recruitment, job descriptions and individual training should be amended in order to ensure the retail organisations have the right processes and programs in place to ascertain the competencies needed to utilise CRM technology. Job specifications for staff or ‘librarians accessing CRM should be amended to encourage a proactive approach towards their duties (Owens, Wilson and Abell, 1996). In addition, selection criteria should be adjusted to identify candidates who possess CRM capabilities through IT/CRM related qualification/certificates or direct experience gained through previous employment. Various levels of CRM training programs tailored to each department, and manager should be introduced and should centre on themes which retail procedure and policies regarding data analysis (McKean, 1999), communication competence, such as the use of emails (Ciaborra and Patriotta, 1996) and the ethical use of information to protect the identification of individual customers (Mason, Mason and Culnan, 1995), as well as CRM operational and functional use and how it works across the organisation (Mutch, 2008). The above changes should help retail organisations foster the necessary competencies to ensure CRMs correct use throughout the organisation (Alter, 2009). It is argued that these changes (jobs, processes and a lattice/network like structure), supporting richer communication and information sharing, allow workers to become informated by CRM and view the organisation in its totality, making information and processes once hidden, transparent (Zuboff, 1988). 2.4 Culture Different aspects of organisational culture impact CRM use both positively and negatively in numerous ways. Van Bentum, (2005) analysis of organisational culture distinguishes between several variants of culture. Of these more ‘mercenary (characterised by heavy inward competition and intense internal and external rivalry) types of culture, often lend themselves to a communication framework that does not match with the knowledge management, knowledge retention and sharing capabilities that CRM offers. This impacts CRM use negatively, creating reluctance on behalf of the individual to use a system that transfers their core knowledge to an internal ‘rival. It is this mismatch between culture and technology that is why many CRM projects fail. Such organisational cultures restrict CRMs knowledge sharing capability and discourage its use by workers (Van Bentum, 2005). Sub-cultures operating within departments or functions of the organisation are also seen to negatively hinder C RM use, often displaying resistance and an unwillingness to change and adapt to CRMs integration (Leverick, et al. 1998). In illustrating a more positive impact culture can have on CRM use, Van Bentum, (2005) advocates a ‘communal culture based on openness, innovation and continuous learning. Here culture positively impacts CRM in the sense that it is embraced by organisational people with a clear customer orientation, who in turn seek to utilise its capabilities to the fullest in their day-to-day activities. It is this type of culture that retail sector organisations currently operating a ‘mercenary type culture, should move towards. Another cultural aspect impacting CRM use is that organisational peoples belief system regarding CRM ease-of-use and usefulness can have a significant impact on its performance highlighted (Avlontis and Panagopoulous, 2005). If perceived useful and easy-to-use, CRM leads to performance improvements. Conversely, if perceived as not useful and difficult to use, CRM will have little impact on performance and on fulfilling its strategic objectives (Avlontis and Panagopoulous, 2005). The above cultural impacts on CRM use are indicative of a clear correlation between the type of organisational culture and IT performance (Davis, 1989; Avlontis and Panagopoulous, 2005). Literature indicates that retail organisations (particularly management spearheading/championing CRM) must nurture a communal CRM culture through an environment of teamwork, innovation, trust and a receptiveness towards CRM technology in order to ensure its embracement throughout the organisation (Avlontis and Panagopoulous, 2005:Van Bentum, 2005). an appropriate cultural foundation, is prerequisite to CRM success. SECTION 3: CONCLUSIONS RECOMMENDATIONS This report has sought to examine CRMs impact on information use and strategy in the retail sector, revealing some of the reasons was as to why CRM projects fail and recommendations to capitalise on CRM potential. The reports main findings and recommendations are summarised below: 3.1 KEY FINDINGS 1. CRM technology has significantly impacted the relationship between data, information and knowledge and their use in the retail industry. Data and information are now used as a source of competitive advantage. Knowledge is now seen as a resource through retention and sharing. 2. Strategic alignment is a critical for CRM success. 3. There are numerous barriers to successful CRM often attributable to a strategic misalignment (summarised in appendix figure 2). 3.2 RECCOMENDATIONS 1. A holistic perspective towards CRM implementation and strategic alignment between CRM and the organisations strategy, structure, individuals and culture is a critical for CRM success (Scott-Morton, 1991; Macredie, et al. 1998; Bull, 2003). 2. A CRM strategy, outlining its strategic objectives and a clear plan for integrating it into the organisations business processes and systems are perquisites for any successful CRM implementation project. 3. Understanding data needs and how the data will be used to extract information and elicit knowledge to increase profitability is critical. 4. Organisational agility to adapt to contextual factors such as new CRM technology is essential. De-structural changes in specific departments such as implementing flatter structures, introducing cross-functional teams and lateral communication channels is more suited to unlocking CRM potential (Lorrimar, 1999; Mabey, Saloman and Storey, 2001). 5. Organisational peoples role in how CRM is used is a major determinant of its success (McNally, 2007). Tailored recruitment and training programs to foster the right CRM competencies supported with an effective incentive system are critical (Avlontis and Panagopoulous, 2005). A communal organisational culture emphasising a strong customer orientation, teamwork, empowerment, communication, innovation, accurate expectations regarding system usage and a receptiveness towards new technology is crucial to elicit employee commitment to CRM (Van Bentum, 2005). APPENDIX * Open focussing on technical-requirements reather than on the business strategy and organisations needs (McLuhan, 2001; Ramsey, 2003) * Lack of cross functional coordination (McLuhan, 2001) * Failure to support monitor and evaluate CRM performance (McLuhan, 2001; Bull, 2003) * Failure to approach CRM implementation from a holistic approach (McLuhan, 2001; Bull, 2003) * An unreceptive organisational culture to technological change (Kotorov, 2003) and sub cultures displaying resistance and an unwillingness to change and adapt to how CRM fits into their working duties acts as a barrier to unlocking CRM potential (Leverick, et al. 1998) * An unwillingness to share information and knowledge as inhibiting CRM potential (Kotorov, 2003; Pavlovets, 2005)

Compairing the Websites of Dell Computer and Compaq Computer :: Compare Direct Marketing Websites

Compairing the Websites of Dell Computer and Compaq Computer In the exploding world of e-commerce, the ability of a company to attract customers using websites is critical for the company’s success. The use of the website by two computer manufacturers, Dell and Compaq, is evidence of this fact. Dell is the forerunner in the direct marketing of computers to customers via the Internet. As the success of Dell’s marketing approach became apparent, other computer companies such as Compaq have tried to market their product directly via the Internet as well. In evaluating the Dell and Compaq computer websites, several areas had to be assessed and compared for their effectiveness in promoting the product. The four main areas included in the evaluation of the websites were the target audiences for each company, the style chosen for the website, the content of each website, and the structure of each website. However, the experience of Dell in direct marketing has allowed them to create a website that is more effective for a wide customer b ase than the Compaq website is. The first area of evaluation was the comparison of the target markets for both Dell and Compaq. In evaluating the Dell homepage, the target audience was determined to be businesses and government institutions. The Dell homepage contains five links to other areas of the website, one each for small businesses, large businesses/healthcare, education, government, and home/home office. In splitting the business into four categories, the emphasis Dell places on business customers is evident and identifies its target audience as predominately business and government customers. However, Dell is obviously vying for individual computer sales to homes and consumers. In addition, in examining the Dell homepage, the target audience can also be identified as customers who are users of the Internet, as Dell does not sell computers in stores. Dell is a direct retailer of computers and uses the Internet as its primary source for customers to place orders, although Dell does allow for phone sales as w ell. In contrast, examination of the Compaq homepage identifies the primary target audience of Compaq to be home computer users. Compaq advertises discounted computer models directly on its homepage, creating a sense that Compaq is attracting home users since home users tend to shop for computer deals. Businesses on the other hand, tend to obtain their discounts by purchasing computers in bulk quantities. However, Compaq is seeking business customers as evidenced by its links for small and medium businesses, enterprise businesses, government institutions, and educational institutions.

Duties of your own work Essay

Ensure all children are safe and happy within the setting. Keeping walk ways, fire exits and doorways clear. Doing regular risk assessment checks throughout ­Ã‚ ­ the day (bye eye). Risk assessment check of the garden before going out. Making sure none of the toys are damaged or broken. EYFS Making sure the EYFS is followed when carrying out monthly spot obs, and when having input in the planning. 1.2 Explain expectations about own work role as expressed in relevant standards. As a practitioner my expectations should be to become a valuable practitioner, to be reliable and be able build good relationships with children and parent carers. Encourage the children in the setting to play whilst learning, and have our children’s best interests at heart for example physical activities and outings will help them to enjoy their growth in knowledge and assist them to expand on their development as a whole. Also I to be able to work with other staff members and parent/carers to support the children, so that the children will feel confident and able boost up their  self-esteem, and this will also help them in their future, and prepare them for when they move onto school or in my case the next room up. Also the expectations that are to be done in my setting at a relevant standard is to supervise the children this plays a big role in child protection Act and health and safety policy. As a practitioner I should always watch the children closely to prevent and reduce any type of injury to the children. Children often challenge their own abilities but are not always able to recognise the risks involved, as a practitioner I should always supervise the children to be able to identify any risks and minimise injury at all times while still encouraging the children to take their own risk. 2.1 Explain the importance of reflective practice in continuously improving the quality of the service provided. It is important to use reflective practise as it can improve your own work and make you consider ways of improving the things you do on a day to day basis. In order to reflect on your own practice, you need to be able to question what you do and think about it rather than just doing it. You can do this by observing how the children react to the activity, and how other have had input. Where you feel you have done well you should consider what skills, knowledge or practice you have used to help you achieve this. You can also ask others for example you room leader for input and ask what they think you did well and what you can improve on. Once you have been give this input you should think about what you need to do to improve. The way you might approach reflecting on your own practice could be to observe the children before you do an activity this can enable you to learn from the children and help you get a good idea of what the children are interested in and also the way they engage wi th other children. You should also be aware of and focus on the issues in hand for example things cannot be running smoothly because of issues as small as the daily routine having a minor issue such as the timings been just out, we should work on these problems as a setting rather than seeing them as just a small problem. Seek out alternatives, if you do not have something you need then don’t panic there is always an alternative you can use. Panicking can cause the children to feel distress and this in turn can cause the children to leave the activity. Also viewing things from a different perspective can help, if you view  things from the children’s perspective can help you experience how the children view the activities, also standing over Someone else’s activities can help you view the way you see how your own activity or went wrong. 2.3 describe how own believes, values and experiences may affect working practices. Your own believe systems, values and experiences can affect your working practices in a good and bad ways for example I believe that no matter what race, religion or background a child comes from they should all be treated as equals and we should follow what the parents would like us too, this can include dietary requirements, clothing, sayings before and after meals for example in my nursery we have some parents that would like us to say please and thank in Punjab. Whereas your own experiences can have an adverse effect on your working practice, for example as a child I was never aloud pudding until i had finished my meal, whereas at work I have to give the child their pudding regardless as to whether the child eats the main meal or not. 4.1 Identify sources of support for planning and reviewing my own development. The sources of support for planning and reviewing my own development are Nikol – manager Nikol helps me review my own development by giving me feedback on a daily basis. Nikol helps me by reviewing my practice and speaking to me when she sees something aren’t quite right and telling me how to handle things the next time round. I also have monthly appraisals with nikol when we talk about how I feel in the work place and how Nikol thinks I could improve and what I’m doing well in, Ema – Room Leader Ema helps me with my development by allowing me to set out my own activities and giving me giving me feedback after each activity. Ema allows me to put up displays and have input into the planning. Ema also gives me praise on a  daily basis. Ema also helps me when I’m unsure on something like what to write for observations or how to link the planning to the EYFS. Hayley – Tutor Hayley helps me with my own development by reviewing my work and giving me feedback on how to make it better. Hayley also plans observations to observe my work within the setting. Parents My parents help me to plan my future steps like uni and talk to me about where I want my studies to take me. My parents also push me to achieve my goals It good to have more than one source of support as everyone’s advice is different and some sources can provide more support in certain areas than others. It’s also good to have more than one source of support as that one source of support is not always available to help. When I was doing a display at work I was struggling to write the EYFS for the display I had just done I asked Ema for support on how to write this. Ema gave me the EYFS Someone else had done as a guide she also showed me which aspects of the EYFS to use to guide me. I felt a lot better after asking for help it made me feel that I could always ask for help when needed and that there was the support I needed.

International Business: Doing business in another country Essay

1.0 INTRODUCTION This report will investigate the viability of â€Å"Aussie Boardies† expanding its business overseas. The potential country chosen is India. This country will be analysed with its business protocol, communication and cultural differences. The report will also investigate the strengths and weaknesses of setting up business in India and make comparisons to Australian business ethics. An informed recommendation will be made based upon evidence within the report in relation to establishing an overseas branch. 2.0 GENERAL FACTS 2.1 CLIMATE India’s climate and weather are varied depending on the relevant region; the three main regions are the Northern Plains, Central India and the Southern region. The Northern Plains have cities like New Delhi that experience extreme ranges of temperature and are very prone to monsoons during the monsoon season (June to September). Central India consists of hot and dry weather but temperature drops at night. It is the most monsoon prone in all of India during the monsoon season. The southern region of India has generally high humidity throughout the year and relatively low rainfall. The southern region of India’s climate is the most similar to the Gold Coast as they are both tropical and generally high temperatures throughout the year (see Appendix 2). 2.2 GEOGRAPHIC LOCATION India occupies most of the Indian subcontinent in Southern Asia. Its western border consists of only Pakistan and the eastern border is Bangladesh (see Appendix 1). The town of Chennai located on India’s south eastern coast would be the optimal place to set up â€Å"Aussie Boardies†. Chennai’s beaches are similar to the Gold Coast, and are the main tourist attraction. Thus, the demand for swimwear would be higher in that area. Therefore, this will be the optimal area in India to set up a branch of â€Å"Aussie Boardies†. The  distance from Australia to India is evident in appendix 6, as it is 7822.21km apart from Australia. 2.3 LIFESTYLE India is one of the most diverse countries, with an incredibly large mixture of races and hundreds of different languages spoken. Many aspects of the western lifestyle have been embraced in India in modern day. Foods are liked by the different areas of India but vegetables, pulses and rice are very much liked by all Indians. The people who live near the oceans diet consist mainly of fish as they are mostly fisherman. The Indian clothing is still traditional at its core, with many women wearing the Sari (Appendix 3). However, swimwear is the same as contemporary western styles, making â€Å"Aussie Boardies† have more relevance in the Indian society. 2.4 RELIGION As Appendix 4 shows, the main religion of India is Hinduism, with Islam as a minority. 2.5 FLAG The flag of India sports 3 coloured lines being, Saffron (top), white (middle) and India green (bottom). In the centre is the design of Ashoka Shakra in navy blue. 3.0 ECONOMIC/POLITICAL DETAILS 3.1 DEMOCRACY, MONARCHY, DICTATORSHIP India’s constitution describes the nation as a â€Å"sovereign socialist secular democratic republic†. (see Appendix 5) Politics of India take place within a constitution. India is a federal parliamentary democratic republic in which the President of India is head of state and the Prime Minister of India is the head of government. The political structure of India is similar to  Australia, as they are both democracies and operate within a constitutional framework. 3.2 POLITICAL ISSUES The social issues of India include a lack of homogeneity which naturally sees certain social groups being discriminated against base upon religion, race etc. Economic issues like unemployment, poverty and economic development are also a concern in India. (The Economic Times, 2014) Unemployment effectively hurts the country as it reduces productivity, therefore reducing the GDP. Also, with less people in gainful employment, the nation’s economy won’t be as active through less expenditure. This will effectively reduce the cash supply within the economy and strengthen the value of the currency, as it will deflate. A strengthening of the Indian currency will be very beneficial towards domestic business, as the currency is valuable, making a branch in â€Å"Aussie Boardies† a good investment by acquiring Indian assets. 3,3 GROSS DOMESTIC PRODUCT India is the world’s tenth largest economy and the second most populous. The most important and the fastest growing sector of Indian economy are services. Trade, hotels, transport and communication; financing, insurance, real estate and business services and community, social and personal services account for more than 60 percent of GDP. GDP (Gross domestic product) is an economic indicator that is measured by the final output of goods and services produced by a country within a certain period of time. It is typically used as the main economic indicator when reviewing a countries economic status. (Investorwords.com, 2014) The GDP value of India represents 2.97% of the world economy. India’s GDP is currently $1841.7 billion, which has seen a steady growth since 2010. (See appendix 8) The GDP growth rate of India expanded by 0.6% at the end of the 2013 quarter, as shown by appendix 9. This steady increase of GDP will increase the confidence of businesses, as the rising rate of GDP guarantees a stable economy. It would be recommended to set up a branch of â€Å"Aussie Bardies† in India at this time as the growth rate of GDP is seeing no fluctuations, indicating a healthy  economy. 3.4 WORKPLACE ISSUES Unemployment is measured by the amount of people who are out of work and are actively seeking employment. (Pettinger, 2010) The rate of unemployment is a key economic indicator to the health of an economy. India’s current unemployment rate is 3.8%, as appendix 10 shows; unemployment has seen a rapid decline in the past 3 years, from 9.4% to 3.8%. This low unemployment also encompasses children, as child labour is a big issue in India. The main cause of this compulsory child labour is no education and a high amount of poverty. (ilo.org, 2014) A 2011 UNICEF report showed that in India, 28 million children under the age of 14 were engaged in child labour. (Digitaljournal.com, 2014) This can potentially be beneficial to branching â€Å"Aussie Boardies† to India as it can assist in hiring child employees as they don’t require an adult’s income, and need the work, making it a mutually benign arrangement. 4.0 TRAVEL INFORMATION 4.1 TIME DIFFERENCE As appendix 11 shows, India is 3 hours 15 minutes behind Australia. If you were to set up an international conference, it would have to be ahead to ensure it is between the working times in India. 4.2 CURRENCY The Indian rupee (INR) is the official currency of India. As appendix 12 shows, 1 Australian dollar can purchase 55.16 Indian rupees. As India’s inflation has seen a steady trend of decreasing, this will increase the purchasing power and value of the Indian currency, thus making it a good investment to set up an the Australian â€Å"Aussie Boardies† branch in India. (See appendix 7) 4.3 LANGUAGE As appendix 13 shows, there are many different languages spoken in India. The official language spoken is Hindi along with English and French as minorities. If the Australian business was to set up a branch in India, a translator would probably not be needed as some of the population would know English. This would make communication with the local customers a lot more efficient within the established branch of â€Å"Aussie Boardies†. 5.0 CULTURE AND CUSTOM 5.1 COMMUNICATION STYLES As India is part of Asia, their communication styles are very similar to that of Asians. Likewise with many Asians, Indians consider it extremely troublesome to say â€Å"no† – feeling that to do so might be hostile and lead to harmful towards future relationships. Accordingly, when confronted with difference, Indians are likely to express dubiousness and lack of commitment. (Worldbusinessculture.com, 2014) This is a polar opposite to how Australians communicate, being western in their communication style. Australians are confronting and to the point, they will express how they feel and aren’t afraid of declining. Australia has alot of slang that other cultures would not understand and should be weary not to use it to avoid miscommunication. In India, a nonverbal form of greeting is to bow slightly with palms together. Australia’s form of nonverbal communication is shaking hands as per usual with western culture. 5.2 SOCIAL BEHAVIOUR Indians want to work with those they know. Numerous organizations are family run and may utilize numerous family members, since it is accepted that you can trust family over all others. Indeed in multi-national organizations, it is normal for one relative to be contracted and, assuming that it works out, recommend that cousins, siblings, or different relatives discover occupation there, as well. (Rw-3.com, 2007) This is less prominent in Australia as they  value friendship or â€Å"mateship† rather than families when doing business. The value of modesty is emphasised in India, as boasting about ones achievements is considered rude. This is similar in Australia, as pretentiousness is loathed and authenticity is appreciated. 5.3 ETIQUIETTE In India, business meetings are more casual when it comes to scheduling and dont need much lead time. Scheduling is recommended to be carried out through telephone or letter. It is good to set up a meeting between October and March to avoid the heat and monsoon seasons. (Kwintessential.co.uk, 2014) Also be considerate of the numerous religious holidays in India. When entering a meeting room, it is conventional to greet the most senior member first. In Australia, the hierarchy is based on the position rather than the age. When doing business in India, business cards should be exchanged at the first meeting. It is a good idea to have it translated in Hindi as well as English on one side as an indication of respect rather than linguistic need. (Intercultures.ca, 2014)When giving your business card to someone you should present it with your right hand and have it face up with the text facing the recipient so they can read it as you hand it to them. Likewise, it is convention to receive it with your right as the left hand is considered unclean in India. Also, putting the business card in your back pocket is considered rude, as you should put it in your wallet to signify prosperity. Australia is indifferent to how someone receives the business card as it is more of the contents of the card that matters. 5.4 STATUS, RANK AND POWER India is a male dominated society, making the status of women in business fairly low. Foreign women don thave issues being accepted in India, but Indian women are usually discriminated against. Although it might be hard for a woman in India to be in a higher position, it still occurs and they are treated with the same respect as a male in that position. Australia has gender equality and doesn’t discriminate, as women have the exact same opportunity as men within business. In India, senior members of the business  are usually revered and are in higher positions. This is contrary to Australia as age is respected, but not to that magnitude; with experience and status valued more. 5.5 DECISION MAKING Business negotiating in India is non-confrontational and it is uncommon for fellow peers to disagree. Decisions are usually made by the person with the highest authority and rarely any discourse occurs in challenging the decision. (Indiahorizonz.com,2014) The process of decision making is slow paced and it is honourable to show patience. Losing your temper out of impatience is looked down upon, making you unworthy of respect and trust. With Australia preferring to sign legal documents and contracts in the knowledge that there is equity in the law for justice should an agreement be broken. Indians wouldn’t appear over legalistic in agreements as they do not trust the legal system. Generally speaking, one’s word is sufficient to reach an agreement and is considered a reflection of their integrity. When decisions are made or negotiations are successful, they are often celebrated with a meal. 5.6 GRATUITIES Indians believe that gift giving signifies an easing transition into the next life. (Kwintessential.co.uk, 2014) It is recommended to not give expensive or cash gifts, as they can be considered a bribe in a business context but are suitable for family and close friends on special occasions. Gift-giving in Australia is generally not part of the business culture, as minor gifts would only be given at business parties of wine or chocolates. Be mindful in India to not have gifts that are meat or made of leather, as most Indians are Hindu or vegetarian, making a cows skin extremely offensive for them to look at. Gifts should be wrapped using primary colours as any black/white wrapping is considered unlucky. 6.0 RECOMMENDATIOBN Based on the impact of various distinctive elements it can be confidently stated that establishing a branch of Aussie Boardies in India has some risks, but is outweighed by the significant amount of benefits. The climate in the southern part of India’s climate has many similarities to the Gold Coast in which Aussie Boardies is located as it has high temperatures and is generally tropical. The optimal area of India to set up business would be the town of Chennai. Located on India’s south eastern coast, Chennai’s beaches are similar to the Gold Coast, and are the main tourist attraction. Thus, the demand for swimwear would be higher in that area. India is seeing a transition into a first world country with increased development as India is very stable with a booming rise in GDP and a fairly low unemployment, thus setting up a business at this time would be encouraged. The Indian currency is also seeing a strengthening through deflation; this is good for an Australian business as the exchange rates are very high with Australian currency which could see potential profits with an investment of Indian assets. Child labour is a prominent issue in India; however, this labour is not forced and is a result of high poverty and low education. This can potentially be beneficial to branching â€Å"Aussie Boardies† to India as it can assist in hiring child employees as they don’t require an adult’s income, and need the work, making it a mutually benign arrangement. As one of the official language used in business is English in India, this lowers a communication barrier with most of the population speaking English. The social and business etiquettes of Australia and India are diverse but Indians are usually accepting of the cultural differences and are open minded about them. Although, many of the core business protocols are similar and the re isn’t any radical changes. 7.0 CONCLUSION Considering the analysis of the viability of expanding the business â€Å"Aussie Boardies† overseas, there are many positive factors. Based on the evidence of the stable economic outlook of India, business protocols, communication and cultural differences, expanding business overseas is highly recommended.