SWOT Analysis of Lionel Smith Ltd Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

SWOT Analysis of Lionel Smith Ltd - Case Study Example Mr. Smith had worked for sixteen years in the retail clothing business. He gained this experience by working in stores such as Belk's Department Store, Manning Owens Incorporated, and LeGrande's of Aiken, South Carolina. After two years, the partnership was dissolved, Mr. Smith became the sole owner, and LSL was established as a sub-chapter S corporation. This began a period of growth for the company. Between the years of 1979 and 1983, four additional locations were opened. They were located in Aiken and Edgefield, South Carolina, and Augusta, and Savannah, Georgia. By the end of 1983, all four of those locations were closed. Mr. Lionel Smith stated the closings were due to several major factors. They include his inability to hire and retain professionally qualified supervisors and employees, the desire to focus his efforts on establishing an outside sales force, and high interest rates and an unstable economy. In 1982, the main location moved to the other side of Laurens Street in Aiken. The move to the new location was made possible because Lionel Smith was able to purchase the building. This has been the company's only location since 1983. With only one location, its staff and inventory are not divided between two or more venues, and rent, utilities, and other operating costs are lower. The company underwent another major change when it was purchased by Mr. Smith's son, Van, in 1992. Introduction According to the marketing area experts SWOT analysis review for Lionel Smith Ltd. (LSL) the key issues from an analysis of the trade environment and the strategic ability of an organization. The chief objectives of conducting SWOT analysis for Lionel Smith Ltd. (LSL) is to recognize the coverage to which the existing strategy of an association and its more exact strength and weaknesses are pertinent to, and capable of, dealing by means of the changes taking place in the trade environment. It also uses to assess whether there are opportunities to develop further the exclusive resources or core capability of this clothing organization. Moreover, SWOT stands for strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats. It's a four-part come within reach of to analyzing a company's generally strategy or the strategy of its trade units. All four aspects have to be considered to execute a long-range plan of action. In order to whack the rivalry you require comprehending SWOT. No doubt, It's a way to examine a company's or a department's place in the market in relation to its contestant. The goal is to recognize all the major factors affecting competitiveness before crafting a trade policy. SWOT Breakdown SWOT recognize the internal and external issue that have an effect on an organization. Here's the breakdown of SWOT by interior and outside variables: Internal factors (Strengths and weaknesses) A corporate structure, culture and resources Shareholders Customers Competitors External factors (Opportunities threats) Politics Technology Society Economics SWOT ANALYSIS Strategy Strengths The first strength of Lionel Smith Ltd.

Strategies That Capitalize On An Organizations Strengths Marketing Essay

Strategies That Capitalize On An Organizations Strengths Marketing Essay A SWOT Analysis is used to develop strategies that capitalize on an organizations strengths, minimize the effects of any weaknesses, exploit available opportunities and defend against threats. Implementing these strategies leads to achieving the organizations objectives. SWOT analysis looks at your strengths and weaknesses, and the opportunities and threats your business faces. By focusing on the key factors affecting your business, now and in the future, a SWOT analysis provides a clear basis for examining your business performance and prospects. INTRODUCTION General Motors Corporation is the worlds largest automaker company founded in 1908 which Employs about 326, 999 people around the world with its headquarters in Detroit, Michigan, USA. Founded in Flint, Michigan as a holding company for Buick, then controlled by William C. Durant and acquired Oldsmobile later that year. The following year, Durant brought in Cadillac, Elmore and Oakland. In 1909, General Motors acquired the Rapid Motor Vehicle Company of Pontiac, Michigan, the predecessor of GMC Truck. A Rapid became the first truck to conquer Pikes Peak in 1909. Durant lost control of GM in 1910 to the companys bankers, because of the large amount of debt taken on in its acquisitions. GM holds the biggest share in GM Daewoo Auto Technology Co. of South Korea and has product, powertrain and purchasing collaborations with Suzuki Motor Corp. and Isuzu Motors Ltd. of Japan. The company also has advanced technology partnership with Toyota Motor Corporation of Japan, DaimlerChrysler AG and BMW AG of Germany, and vehicle manufacturing Ventures with several automakers around the world, including Toyota, Suzuki, Shanghai Automotive Industry Corporation of China, AVTOVAZ of Russia and Renault SA of France. GM along with its strategic partners manufactures trucks cars in 31 countries, and the vehicles through these well-known brands: Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, FAW, GMC, Daewoo, Holden, Jiefang, Opel, Vauxhall and Wuling. China is known to be the largest national market, followed by the U.S., Brazil, Germany, U.K., Canada, Italy. General Motors Company develops, produces, and markets cars, trucks, and parts worldwide. The company offers its products under the brand names of Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, GMC, Daewoo, Holden, Opel, Isuzu, Vauxhall, Jiefang, FAW, and Wuling. The companys cars, trucks, and parts are marketed through retail dealers in North America, and through distributors and dealers outside of North America. In addition to the products it sells to its dealers for consumer retail sales, the company also sells cars and trucks to fleet customers, including daily rental car companies, commercial fleet customers, leasing companies, and governments. As of December 31, 2009, the company had 5,619 vehicle dealers in the U.S.; 568 in Canada; and 263 in Mexico. Additionally, there were a total of 14,317 distribution outlets throughout the rest of the world. Significant Events In February 2010, the company completed the sale of Saab Automobile AB to Spyker Cars NV. In September 2009, the company decided to wind-down the Saturn brand and dealership network. On August 18, 2010, General Motors Corporation is collaborating with SAIC Motor Corporation. The collaboration is targeted at developing 1.0 litre and 1.5 litre engines for small cars. On August 26, 2010, General Motors Company has collaborated with Bright Automotive, Inc. The collaboration is targeted at offering an electric commercial fleet vehicle. In October 2010, General Motors Company had set up a used car joint venture with Shanghai Automation Instrumentation Co., Ltd. to expand into an untapped segment of the worlds biggest auto market. Mission and vision GM is one of the respected auto companies in the world. It has a variety of products that ensure that the company is faring well in the market. The companys headquarters is located in New York, United States and looks forward to establishing an outlet in every country of the world. Product analyses The planning strategy is looking on how the GM products are faring in the world auto market. The existence of the company in the market is based on an extensive research that was carried out in the European market which shows that there is still large untapped market potential in the auto industry in Europe and other parts of the world. The GM Company specializes in Designing and making of automobiles, trucks, locomotives, and related parts such as chassis, interiors, drivetrains, and electronics (Brandi, 2007). The company employees more than 205,000 people in every major region of the world and does business in some 157 countries. GM and its strategic partners manufacture cars and trucks in 31 countries of the world. The SWOT analysis of General Motors is given below. Strengths 1. Large Market Share Although GMs market share in the US has dropped it is still very much competitive at 26 percent. They also have an increasing share in the Chinese market. With the right decisions there is no reason for GM to not become the automotive leader it once was. 2. Global Experience As explained above even with GMs recent decline they still have the market share and the experience to bounce back. They have been a worldwide company for nearly a century now and have established themselves as the global leader for most of them. If you recall I mentioned above that a current opportunity for GM is to expand globally and as we can see they already have the experience to do so. It is just a matter of the correct planning and proper implementation of those plans that will decided whether or not GMs goals are achieved. 3. Variety of Brand Names GM as I mentioned has been the automotive leader for the majority of the last century. A large reason for that is the wide variety of quality brand names that appeal to all target markets. The current GM brands include: Chevrolet, GMC, Cadillac, Buick, Pontiac, Saturn, Hummer, Saab, Daewoo, Opel, and Holden. 4. GMAC Customer Financing Program Since its establishment in 1919 it has proven to be GMs most reliable source of revenue. 5. OnStar Satellite Technology Developed in 1996 OnStar currently has over 3 million subscribers and is standard on all GM vehicles. This technology allows the vehicles to be tracked in the event of an emergency or theft. It also allows the driver and or passengers the ability to communicate with OnStar personnel at the click of a button. Weaknesses 1. Behind on Alternative Energy Movement This is GMs biggest weakness. The alternative energy/hybrid trend has begun to take place in the automotive industry and GM has been one step behind the competition in terms of alternative energy vehicles. This has led to many problems including loss of market share and a decrease in company profit. In order for any automotive company to be successful from this point forward they must be Hybrid friendly and fuel efficient. 2. Poor Organizational Structure As we can see in exhibit 1 of the case GMs organizational structure seems to be too vertically integrated. This causes a lack of communication between employees from top to bottom and may have played a part in GM falling behind on the alternative energy movement. 3. Stagnant Profitability Looking at GMs profit we see that they are certainly struggling with respect to the size of their company. Their profit margin was about 1.5% and the ROE has dramatically decreased over the recent years dropping to 10% in 2004. This is a situation that shareholders will not be pleased with. 4. Overly Dependent on US market GM has become too dependent on the US market and must take advantage of the opportunity to expand globally. The competition is becoming too strong to focus on just one country. 5. Overly Dependent on General Motors Acceptance Corporation (GMAC) Financing GM has become too dependent on its financing program. Granted it is a great strength for GM, however they once again cannot rely solely on financing in order to turn profit, especially if they want to compete with Honda and Toyota who are rapidly growing. 6. Poor Credit Status GMs credit status has like everything else has been steadily declining. Their current ratio is just barely above 1 and their acid test is even lower. Although, I dont see them getting denied based on their credit at this point, the seriousness of the matter is certainly apparent. Opportunities Produce fuel-efficient, smaller, and higher-quality models that can attract the consumers. Chinese government condensed automotive taxes in order to encourage declining sales. In February 2009; citing declining manufacturing numbers, the State Bank of India decreased interest rates on automotive loans. Establish or Equip facilities to manufacture advanced technology vehicles that would meet up certain fuel economy and emissions standards. One of the big opportunities is to shift manufacturing to other amenities in order to produce in-demand vehicles. Manufacturing could be done in those countries where the labor as well as material cost is low. Diversification in other related and unrelated products or shifting to the hybrid electric engines. The purchasing power of consumers is increasing due to end of financial crisis 2007-10. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ The firm can use the knowledge that it gained from Toyota Nummi joint venture and Saturn experience. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ It should build its image and gain more share in the market with its newly build confidence regarding the customers. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ New car models and designs should be introduced keeping in mind the customer preferences, because in the automobile industry, the needs of the customer are the valid puncture points that will provide profitability if concerned with delicately. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Expansion of their business processes, but also keeping in mind the preferential influence of the customers. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ VEBA can help General Motors save up to $2.5 to $2.8 billion a year in cash if the process is implemented strictly. 8. Alternative Energy Movement It is obvious that GM was behind its competition with regards to the research and development of hybrid vehicles. However hybrid technology is still very much new giving GM the opportunity to once again become the automotive industrys leader in innovation and technology. 9. Continuing to Expand Globally. Recently GM saw an increase in the Chinese automotive market, which proves their needs to be more emphasis put on foreign markets. If GM can infiltrate these markets and successfully grow along with their continuing focus on the US market they will be headed in a positive direction. 10. Low Interest Rates With the right marketing strategy the low interest rates have the potential to generate an immediate increase in sales. 11. Develop New Vehicle Styles and Models This is an opportunity that will never be satisfied, meaning that GM should always be attempting to develop the automotive worlds most popular vehicles, and as we know, what is in today will be out tomorrow. Threats The automotive industry crisis of 2008-2010 was the big downturn. Now it is challenge for industry players to recover. The financial crisis of 2007-10 caused by a liquidity deficit in the U.S banking system resulted decrease in consumer wealth. The crisis mainly felt in the U.S and also affected Asian and European automobile manufacturers. Car companies from North America, Europe, and Asia have implemented innovative marketing strategies to attract disinclined consumers. Major producers, including the Toyota and Big Three offered significant discounts across their lineups. North American consumers shifted to more fuel-efficient and higher-quality product of European and Japanese automakers. Environmental politics and allied anxiety concerning carbon emissions have sharp sensitivity to environmental protection worldwide and gas mileage standards. U.S manufacturers are facing soaring gasoline prices, health care costs for an aging workforce, dependence on declining SUV and eroding market share. The company is facing very high labor and raw material cost as compared to Asian manufacturers. GM is also facing criticism on its culture and corporate practices. In 2007, its employees union went on the first countrywide strike due to which a transmission facility and two car assembly plants were closed down. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ The industry although has matured considerably, but there is still room for more improvements, and due to which new entrants are entering the market even though the competition is already tough. (New entrants, not likely pose much of a threat, although Domestic and Foreign competition both act as active threats for the firm that has already gone through losing its market share.) à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Regulations and legislative authorities engaging the industry more actively. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Consumer lawsuits are also present to be accounted for. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Japan being a high manufacturing ground for automobiles, is being affected by the decline in its currency Yen. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Current threat to the image of the GM is posed by the Senator Charles Grassley has accused GM for using bailout money to bailout of the loans it had taken from the U.S. and Canadian Govt. (The money used were paid, not through GMs profitability, but it was yet another loan acquired, so it is accused.) 11. Rising Fuel Prices With GM being a large producer in both trucks and SUVs, sales have drastically decreased due to the lack of fuel efficiency. The rise in fuel prices has played a significant role in creating the opportunity for development of both hybrid and more fuel efficient vehicles. As you will find with most threats, an equal opportunity will usually emerge as is the case here with GMs opportunity mentioned above. 12. Growth of Competitors GM no longer has the luxury of being the known leader in the automotive industry and faces the reality that they are in serious trouble. As I mentioned earlier Toyota took the first step in the direction of hybrid technology and has since drastically grown and become the questionable automotive frontrunner to start the 21st century. 13. Pension Payouts. Part of this threat is their own doing and the other is simply unavoidable. GM is responsible for providing generous pension benefits to its employees, which at the time seemed like a great idea, however they are now experiencing problems as more and more people begin to collect. 14. Increased Health Care Costs GM, like many large companies with quality employee health care benefits, is experiencing a large financial hit that only gets worse as time continues. 15. Rising Supply Costs, i.e. Steel Once again this threat affects the entire automotive industry and forces each company to cut manufacturing and production costs as much as possible, without taking away from the quality of the product. OVERALL POSITION The current global crisis has affected almost all aspects of the economy. It has resulted to borrowing of money by the companies from the government and General Motors (GM) and Chrysler are among these companies. GM has already borrowed 13 .4 billion from the Treasury Department but they announced that they need 30 billion in total to compensate for the declining auto market. Chrysler on the other hand needs 9 billion in total. Since the General Motors has issued to be resolved, then GM will have a hard time coping up with the crisis. Two of the major issues are (1 ) GM needs to drop their unsecured debt burden from 27 billion to 9 billion which still has to be negotiated with the bondholders and (2 ) the debt of GM to United Auto Workers (UAW ) which amounted to 20 billion . GM Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Richard Wagoners plan for the company is to pay its debt and reduce its long-term debts thus making the company economically viable. Wagoner claims that if their turnaroun d plan will work then GM will profit within 24 months. General Motors already presented their plan to the bondholders and it is up to them to scrutinize the plan and conform for a deal to be done. With the General Motor s new CEO , Mr . Frederick Fritz Henderson s determination to reorganize the company , and the US government s strong effort to support the ailing businesses , recovery would be possible for General Motors . General Motors Corporation gets into supervised bankruptcy as the new strategy upon the advise of Steven Rattner , President Obama s auto task force chief (Whoriskey . Bankruptcy is the term given once a company seeks for financial aide in form of loan from the government however , this agreement involves direct intervention and manipulation of the government in the overall operation of the company bankruptcy is another President Obama s strategy to help in the recovery of the economy of the United States . The initial impacts of this agreement between GM and US government are the firing of GM s former boss Rick Wagoner and the formulation of new business plan for submission within sixty days . The new business plan , which was submitted to the US governm ent in December last year constitutes new strategies and endeavor that will benefit in the recovery of General Motors Corporation . In the restructuring plan submitted to Senate Banking Committee and House of Representatives Financial Services Committee , new approaches are outlined with the hope to competitively dominate the market once again . CONCLUSION A SWOT analysis is a popular decision making tool in business which analyzes the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats of the organization in relation to a specific objective. This decision making technique can also be used for making personal decisions and in a variety of different situations.

Somerset Maugham Essay -- Biography Biographies Essays

Somerset Maugham Somerset Maugham was born on January 25, 1874 in Paris where his father was the solicitor to the British Embassy. However, he was orphaned at the age of ten and lived with his uncle, the vicar of Whitstable, in England. Maugham was educated in England studying literature and philosophy at Heidelberg University. In 1897 he qualified as a surgeon from St. Thomas’ medical school and practiced for a year in the slums of London. However, he abandoned medicine after the success of his first two novels. Maugham is best known as a successful novelist and playwright, but he never gained serious recognitions for his works. The young author lived in Paris for ten years before publishing his first novel Liza of Lambeth in 1897. His first play A Man of Honour went into production in 1903 and by 1904 four of his plays were running simultaneously in London. The plays were interested with social satire and he was considered an extremely gifted playwright during this time. These early successes provided a foundation for his later works. His semi-auto bibliographical breakthrough novel Of Human Bondage in 1915 is considered one of his best works. The story follows the life of Philip Carey who loses his parents early in life and tracks his progress into early manhood. In 1919, he published the novel Moon and Sixpence that was loosely based on the life and experiences of the painter Paul Gauguin. This French artist rejected the social contracts of European society and departed to Tahiti where his unconventional scenes of Tahitian life captured the interest and imagination of numerous Europeans. Maugh am himself made a trip to Tahiti to become better acquainted with the circumstances surrounding Gauguin’s experienc... ...ajor novels that Maugham wrote. There is also a list of all the works Maugham produced during his lifetime. Knitting Circle Somerset Maugham. South Bank University. 11 November 2002 http://www.sbu.ac.uk/stafflag/wsmaugham.html>. This is a South Bank University page that sums up some major events in Maugham’s life and focuses on the issue of his sexual preference. This page has highlights some key events between Maugham and Gerald Haxton. There is also a short list of Maugham’s works at the end of the page. Annotation: A fabulous reference site including philosophy resource links by historical time period, philosophic subject, tradition, or school of thought. Books: Bronowski, Jacob. The Origins of Knowledge and Imagination. Yale University Press. New Haven: 1978. Everson, Stephen. Epistemology. Cambridge University Press. New York: 1990.

A Growing “Threat” to Society Essay

The Internet is one of the most powerful sources of information today. Thus, it has the capacity to enlighten, as well as to mislead. This double-edged potential has turned the Internet into the latest avenue for terrorism. Terrorists are now harnessing the power of the Internet to wreak havoc among the public (Conway, 2002). Terrorists use the Internet mainly as a propaganda tool – it is a venue wherein they publicize their cause or explain their ideological justification without misinterpretation or censorship. As of 2002, a majority of the 33 groups deemed foreign terrorist organizations by the United States State Department had their own web sites. There are also many other websites, that, despite not being related to any terrorist group, provide information on how to commit terrorist activities such as bomb-making. The latter often escape criminal prosecution due to the First Amendment, which guarantees freedom of speech to the general populace (Conway, 2002). The very idea of cyber-terrorism, however, is not without contention. For one, it is still not clear as to what differentiates cyber-terrorism from freedom of expression. Also, there are certain Internet-related crimes that cannot be considered as cyber-terrorism, although they inflict damage upon the public. Indeed, terrorism in itself is already a notoriously difficult concept to define. The addition of computers to it further complicates the idea (Conway, 2002). The Internet: A New Weapon The Internet was originally intended as a means of resuming contact in the event of a nuclear attack. But due to its speed and convenience, it is currently a major venue for information, communication and commerce. As of September 2006, there were more than 1 billion Internet users worldwide (Vatis, 2006). With just one click of a mouse, an entrepreneur in Germany can deposit funds to a bank account in Switzerland and talk to a London-based cousin face to face through a web camera. A student in California, meanwhile, can learn everything about the Great Wall of China with merely a few keystrokes. After 9/11 It was only after 9/11 that the very concept of cyber-terrorism was actually developed. Before 9/11, Internet-related crimes were usually in the form of sending pornographic email to minors, defacing web pages, stealing credit card information and launching computer viruses (Conway, 2002). After 9/11, however, US officials realized that terrorist organizations could use the Internet to generate more bloodshed (Weimann, 2004). Al-Qaeda, for instance, could launch missiles or biological weapons to the US by simply pressing the â€Å"Enter† button of a laptop (Stohl, 2006). To a certain extent, the fears of the US were well-founded. In November 2000, an electronic attack was carried out from Pakistan against the Washington-based pro-Israeli lobbying group American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC). Aside from defacing AIPAC’s site with anti-Israeli commentaries, the attacker likewise stole some 3,500 email addresses and 700 credit card numbers, sent anti-Israeli diatribes to the addresses and published the credit card data on the Internet. The Pakistani hacker, known by the alias â€Å"Dr. Nuker,† claimed responsibility for the incident. It turned out that â€Å"Dr. Hacker† was a founder of the Pakistani Hackerz Club, an organization whose objective was to â€Å"hack for the injustice going around the globe, especially with (sic) Muslims† (Conway, 2002). The aforementioned cyber assault was not without precedent. The Lebanese Shiite Islamic group Hezbollah established its collection of web sites in 1995. At present, the group has three websites that can be viewed in either English or Arabic – one for its press office, another to describe its attacks on Israeli targets (http://www. moqawama. tv) and a third, Al-Manar TV, for news and information (http://www. manartv. com). These websites regularly provide the latest information about Hezbollah, including press statements, political declarations, photos, video and audio clips. An email address is also provided as contact information (Conway, 2002). After 9/11, as a result, federal agents issued subpoenas and search warrants to almost every major Internet-based company, including America Online, MSN, Yahoo! and Google. In addition, many web sites were subjected to official closure by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). Included among those that were closed down were radical Internet radio shows such as â€Å"IRA Radio,† â€Å"Al Lewis Live† and â€Å"Our Americas. † The â€Å"jihad web ring,† a collection of 55 jihad-related websites, lost dozens of its sites due to pullouts by Yahoo! Lycos Europe, meanwhile, created a 20-person team to filter its websites for illegal activity and terrorist-related content (Conway, 2002). Cyber-terrorism: Is There Really Such Thing? One of the most common arguments against cyber-terrorism is that it is an imaginary threat (Lacey, 2007). Contrary to popular perception, there is a minimal chance that cyber-terrorists would exact harm on innocent people by attacking corporate and governmental computer networks. As of this moment, terrorist organizations use the Internet only for fundraising, communications and propaganda. There is the possibility that terrorists might use computers as weaponry to a significant degree, but this will â€Å"probably happen in the (distant) future† (Conway, 2002). At present, terrorists would draw more attention to their cause by setting off bombs instead of hacking bytes (Conway, 2002). Instead of getting extremely paranoid about cyber-terrorism, the government should instead focus on eliminating cyber attacks against companies. As of July 2002, hackers had successfully launched at least 180,000 Internet attacks against more than 400 public, private, governmental and non-profit organizations. The brunt of these attacks fell on the power and energy industries, as well as on the technology and financial services. If left unchecked, these cyber attacks would be very detrimental to consumers – in order to make up for their losses to hackers, owners of the above-mentioned industries will have to raise the prices of their products and services (Fishman, Jospehberg, Linn, Pollack, Victoriano, 2002). Conclusion Paranoia over cyber-terrorism is very dangerous. Aside from diverting attention from more serious crimes such as cyber attacks, it violates civil rights and liberties. Under the guise of â€Å"fighting terrorism,† even websites whose only crime was to express radical ideas were closed down. While it is the duty of the state to safeguard its constituents from danger, doing so should not infringe their inalienable rights. It is true that terrorism might turn to cyberspace in the future in order to spread even more fear and bloodshed. But before the government rushes out to eliminate â€Å"cyber-terrorists,† it must first have a clear-cut concept of what constitutes cyber-terrorism and what makes a cyber-terrorist. Otherwise, the government will end up worse than the terrorists that it aims to get rid of. References Conway, M. (2002). What is Cyberterrorism? Current History, 101, 436-442. Retrieved October 17, 2008 from Academic Research Library. Fishman, R. M. , Josephberg, K. , Linn, J. , Pollack, J. , & Victoriano, J. (2002). Threat of International Cyberterrorism on the Rise. Intellectual Property & Technology Law Journal, 14, 23. Retrieved October 17, 2008, from ABI/INFORM Global. Lacey, D. ComputerWeekly. com. (2007, April 29). How Real is the Threat of Cyber Terrorism? Retrieved October 17, 2008, from http://www. computerweekly. com/blogs/david_lacey/2007/04/ how_real_is_the_threat_of_cybe. html Stohl, M. (2006). Cyber Terrorism: A Clear and Present Danger, the Sum of All Fears, Breaking Point or Patriot Games? Crime Law Soc Change, 46, 223-238. Retrieved October 17, 2008 from SpringerLink. Vatis, M. (2006). The Next Battlefield: The Reality of Virtual Threats. Harvard International Review, 28, 56-61. Retrieved October 17, 2008 from ABI/INFORM Global. Weimann, G. United States Institute of Peace. (2004, December). Cyberterrorism: How Real Is the Threat? Retrieved October 17, 2008, from http://www. usip. org/pubs/specialreports/sr119. html#threat

Gustav Flaubert and Ivan Turgenev

The Romantics is a culturally inclined book written by Pankaj Mishra. The publication deals with life's differences and how people came to know more about their own respective cultures. It brings out every reader into a journey of culture. life and the true meaning of existence. The main character Samar, made his move while he is in a juxtaposition of cultures. One may find himself in the shoes of Samar who wanted to engage in more discoveries. Samar, is a fresh graduate who arrived in Benares, also known as the holy city in 1989.He wanted to continue with his solitary life with his book as he chose to stay in a room there. Samar loves to deal with his friends namely Edmund Wilson, Gustav Flaubert and Ivan Turgenev. But on the place where he stays, he lives adjacent to a woman from the west, Catherine. She is a French young woman who had a great impact on Samar's life. She made a vast change on his outlook in life and dealing with what the good world awaits for him. He was able to re cover from the past that he wanted to escape but then the conflicting part is that he falls for the wrong woman.Catherine is already committed which made the story interesting. It was really a big frustration for him to know the truth since he fall in love for the first time since he never believe in the set up of love before. In Benares he discovered many things that changed his life. Starting from the ancestors Brahmin down to practices and political issues. He was able to contemplate on the commonality of people who are there. They all wanted to escape their past. Going back to Samar and Catherine, the two had a chance to become lovers but then Catherine decided to cut their relationship off.Good thing Samar was able to recover and took a teaching job for young Tibetan children. When he was reunited with an old friend from Benares after seven years, he told himself that he is apart from those people who lives there. He is now far from the old tradition and on his way to recuperat ing for a better future. The Romantics tells about the clashing of culture in contemporary India. The author attempted to explore how people during the time differ from their backgrounds, culture and how it is romanticized to unveil the mysteries of India.

The eNotes Blog Guerrilla Poetry Projects

Guerrilla Poetry Projects T.S. Eliot once observed that genuine poetry can communicate before it is understood.   This is a sentiment that   guerrilla poets embrace.   Guerrilla tactics, whether in war or in art, often rely on hit-and-run assaults, leaving the subjects of their surprise attacks a bit dazed and hopefully more aware. This week, the website  Flavorpill  (by way of booooooom.com)  published a variety of   guerrilla poetry projects that are sneaking poetry into the lives of the largely unsuspecting public.   Here are ten of the best: 1.   Scottish artist  Robert Montgomery  installs subversive poetry on billboards, stripping away the large-scale ads for his black-and-white text. Other poems are set on fire. The anonymous works about modern life offer a moment of reflection, away from the consumerist gaze. 2.   The Itaewon neighbored of Seoul, Korea is littered with colorful dolls. American poet  Andy Knowlton  creates the tiny figures from found materials he collects on the streets. Each doll is outfitted with a bottle that contains a poem. â€Å"I want to surprise people going about their daily routines,† he  told  website Chincha. â€Å"Also, I’ve been writing poetry for several years now and I’m always trying to figure out new ways to get people interested in poetry. These dolls are just another approach to getting the good word out on poetry.† 3.  New York City writer  Audrey Dimola  started the Compass Project in 2012. She stickers her poems around the city, releasing her work into the wild. They’re tiny signposts for eagle-eyed daydreamers. 4.  London-based artist  Anna Garforth  is inspired by guerrilla gardening groups, which is why she transformed excerpts from several Eleanor Stevens poems into mossy wall text. The green words are attached with organic materials. Garforth creates the work with the hopes that the letters will grow and spread across the wall in time.   (Photo credit: Amy Leang) 5.   University of Michigan professor  Emily P. Lawsin, specializing in Asian/Pacific Islander American Studies, has been a spoken word performance poet since 1990. Her passionate guerilla performance on a sidewalk in Detroit’s abandoned Chinatown remembered murdered Chinese-American Vincent Chin.   (Photo credit: Max Nesterak)   6.   HOOT  publishes flash fiction, non-fiction, poetry, and small press book reviews, never exceeding 150 words. The lit mag is printed on a postcard, with accompanying art, but it’s also available online. Miniature prose pops up unexpectedly from time to time. 7.   The  Guerilla Poetics Project  consists of  short poems that are letterpress printed via antique press on broadsides and then smuggled into books around the world. Unsuspecting readers can register their found poems on the GPP  website. 8.  Ã¢â‚¬Å"I love the way that language can be an object, and the way that a small, enigmatic fragment can somehow invoke something much larger in the mind,† Anthony Discenza  said  of his guerrilla street sign project. â€Å"Alternatively, I might describe them as a conflation of elevated modes of speech with more prosaic or banal forms - the Gothic novel mixed with the  People  magazine headline.† 9.   During New Zealand’s Nelson Arts Festival in 2012, artist and designer  Klaasz Breukel  - in an orange jumpsuit - drove around in a van, projecting animated poems on walls. 10.   Online video literary magazine  GuerrillaReads  boasts an assortment of  clips  featuring poets reading their works out in the world, away from the bookstores.

Microsoft Vega Project Essay Example

Microsoft Vega Project Essay Example Microsoft Vega Project Essay Microsoft Vega Project Essay How does Microsoft conduct strategic planning and what role human resource management plays in that process? It is apparent that people are Microsofts greatest asset. Linking production areas and using an atmosphere that caters to the 30 year old average employee age, has made the company a fantastic place of employment. Human Resources is responsible for identifying, hiring, and retaining their gifted talent. Microsoft has also boasted as very generous compensation and benefits program that has created a quality employee experience. Microsofts work environment, is a catalyst for great achievements. With a strategic human resource plan, Microsoft ensures that a diverse range of candidates are considered for opportunities as well as retaining them in a very competitive market. Their results are shown through enhanced product development and employee performance. The HR department is great at spotting talent and potential and aim to hire people who are smart, work hard, and get the right things done. HR staffing seeks to hire talented people who are passionate about their work. This passion translates directly into products and services that enable Microsoft customers to do their very best. Its an important mission - bringing the right people in and taking good care of them. It plays a critical role in helping Microsoft generate technology that positively affects the lives of millions of people around the world (Microsoft. com 2008). The case study on the Vega Project shows that HR department as well as company directors are using the plan to promote, educate, and empower individuals. As this case shows, it does not always work out to be a successful match. However, according to Microsoft’s home page, I believe their HR approach is a great example of how to recruit, retain, and promote motivated employees. Where along the transactional-commitment continuum does Microsoft choose to be located ? Transactional leaders use strategy, structure and culture to strengthen their organization. This type of leadership can be displayed through a system of contingent-reward exchanges as well as active management. This style of leadership can be characterized through a process of goal-setting, setting expectations, and defining how followers will be rewarded (Gerhardt 2004). By achieving specific goals for both leaders and their followers, transactional leadership seeks to maintain stability rather than promoting change within an organization. This leadership style is closley related to the style used by Jim Kaplan in 1998. By recruiting MacLellan, he set goals, explained the rewards associated for meeting those goals, and maintain as close relationship with his new recruit. MacLellan was very excieted about his new Vega project and felt empowered to complete the project on time and meet the specified goals. He had a great commitment to the project, his team, and used many resources to ensure that it was a success. In my opinion I feel that due to the nature of Microsoft’s business, the company is high on the transactional-commitment continuum. This type of leadership is shown through the offer to MacLellan from Kaplan. Delivering the Vega project would mean a 14,000 dollar bonus, an allocation of 2,800 stock options, and promoted to a level 33 program manager, which carried a salary range of 85,000 to 110,000 dollars (Bassert page ? ). Microsoft Home Page http://members. microsoft. com/careers/careerpath/humanresource/default. mspx 2008 paulgerhardt. com/homework/TranformationalTransactonalLeadershipInRetail. pdf Paul Gerhardt-Transformational and Transactional Leadership in Retail (2004)

Free Printable Holiday Worksheets and Projects

Free Printable Holiday Worksheets and Projects Printables by Subject: Language Arts Math Science History Geography P.E., Health, Safety Nutrition Homeschool Forms Free holiday worksheets and activities for your students. Add these free printable holiday worksheets, activity pages and coloring pages to your homeschool day. Back to School Printables Black History Month - Famous Firsts Christmas:~ Christmas Symbols Printables~ Twelve Days of Christmas Printables~ Santa and Other Traditions Printables~ Christmas - Nativity Printables Cinco de MayoColumbus Day Printables Earth Day Easter:~ Easter~ Easter - religious Fathers Day Coupon Book and PrintablesFlag Day PrintablesFourth of JulyGroundhog Day Printables Halloween Printables Hanukkah Kwanzaa Labor Day Printables Mardi Gras Printables Martin Luther King, Jr Printables Memorial Day Printables Mothers Day Coupon Book and Printables New Years Printables Passover Presidents Day:~ George Washington~ Abraham Lincoln St. Patricks Day Thanksgiving Printables Valentines Day~ Valentines Day~ Valentines Day Cards~ Valentines Day Coupon Book for Kids Veterans Day Printables Womens History Month - Famous Firsts Seasons: SpringSummerFallWinter

Investor Sentiment Explanation Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Investor Sentiment Explanation - Essay Example Closed-end funds can serve as a perfect illustration for limitations of many theoretical assumptions. Concerns of many researchers from US and UK trying to explain closed-end funds, which differ from open-end funds with a fixed limited number of shares on the stock market, deserve serious attention. But before an explanation of closed-end fund phenomena from the behavioral perspective will be given, clear frames of the subject question should be defined. There are some differences and similarities between closed-end funds in the US and the UK. One of the most important differences is much greater participation of institutional investors in the UK market than in the US (Bleaney and Smith 2003, p. 19). Nevertheless the US and the UK markets are more similar than different, that is why we can extend results acquired from one market to another, but with some corrections made. Investor Sentiment Explanation Unlike economic theories trying to explain the closed-end fund puzzle with rational assumptions (e.g. tax liabilities), behavioral theories imply that there is some amount of irrationality on the market. It is called â€Å"noise trader sentiment† — the component of expectations about asset returns not warranted by fundamentals. Basic assumptions of investor sentiment explanations are as follows:some of the investors are not fully rational, and their demand for risky assets is affected by their beliefs or sentiments; arbitrage is risky and therefore limited. However, researchers advise not to fall into opposite extreme: â€Å"It is absolutely not true that introducing a degree of irrationality of some investors into models of financial markets eliminates all discipline and can explain everything†.

Permanent Pair Bonding Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Permanent Pair Bonding - Research Paper Example 227). Pair-bonds can be defined as long-term affiliation between two individuals that also includes a sexual relationship. This relationship is relatively enduring irrespective of whether it is monogamous or polygamous. Various hypotheses have surfaced regarding the evolution of human pair-bonds, with some considering it a consequence of the competition of male mating while others considering it paternal provisioning’s adaptation. This paper explores the evolution of permanent pair bonding in humans. Pair bonding is one of the most fundamental behaviors in humans like it is in all other primates and mammals. The importance of pair bonding is secondary probably only to such physiological needs as food and air. It is a natural behavior because of which it is commonly exhibited by both humans and non-human living beings, though in humans, a wide range of factors influence humans’ perceptions about and trends in pair bonding. Humans’ pair bonding patterns and behaviors are considerably different from those of other primates, humans being superior to them. Although the bond between a child and a mother in humans is homologous with the bond seen in other primates as well as mammals, yet the pair bond between a man and a woman and the pair bond between a man and a child in humans are not comparable to any terrestrial primate’s or mammals’ bonds (Immerman, 2003, p. 138). ... mother and a child in humans is similar to other terrestrial primates but the bases of affiliative bond between a man and a woman or between a child and a man is dissimilar between humans and primates. The biological explanation of the evolution of pair-bonding is explained by the research on the monogamous rodents that has led to the emergence of a neurobiological model of formation of pair-bond (Young and Wang, 2004). The neuropeptides oxytocin and vasopressin play an important role in dealing with the social cues that help in individual recognition. Reward learning and reinforcement is caused by mesolimbic dopamine. During the process of mating, dopamine receptors and neuropeptide get activated concurrently in the brain’s reward centers which leads to the conditioned preference for partner in pair-bonding. The differences observed in the tendency to develop pair bonds across different species is explained by the differential regulation of the expression of neuropeptide rece ptor. A very important perspective of the evolution of human pairing is grounded in religion. This is the perspective believed by a vast majority of people that believe in God and typically those that belong to an Abrahamic religion. It is mentioned in the religious scriptures that God made Adam and Eve as a pair and the entire generations of humans that have born ever since evolved from this first pair. For instance, in Surah Al-Nisa, it is mentioned, â€Å"O humans! Be pious (careful of your duty) to your Lord, Who created you from a single self (soul), and from it He created its mate, and from them He has spread a multitude of men and women† (Al-Nisa 4:1 cited in El-Najjar, 2007). This verse reveals about the commencement of life with one soul from which, its mate was made. Over the passage of

Profational writing sample Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Profational writing sample - Essay Example The above strengths enable me to develop results focused plans, multitask, communicate and listen, make sound decisions firs, delegate tasks, help other when they need me, and have a positive outlook. The traits that were identified and appeared relevant to my career choice include critical thinking, approachable, credibility, results oriented, and persuasiveness. The above traits have always enabled me relate appropriately with people from diverse groups and with varying opinions. From the reports I got, I realized I possess skills such as supervisory skills since I can manage others in a group. Other skills included ability to lead and motivate others, good analytical skills and ability to plan. A combination of the above skills, strength, and traits suggested that I would fit in careers that require me to deal with people, one of which is being a human resource manager. 2) Given the career goals you hope to achieve by completing your degree, which of these categories would you find most helpful in gaining the knowledge that would be most useful to your future career success? Explain why and how in as much detail as possible After completing my degree my goal is to become a human resource manager and I will be required to conduct activities covered in this course and include Strategic HR Management, creating Equal Employment Opportunity, Staffing, Talent Management and Development, Total Rewards, Risk Management and Worker Protection, and Employee as well as Labor Relations. From the above activities, the most helpful to my career as a human resource manager is strategic human resource management. Strategic human resource management (SHRM) entails creating a link between overall strategic aims of an organization and the human resource strategy as well as implementation of the strategies. Therefore, SHRM is universal and enables human resource

Buddhism Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words - 1

Buddhism - Essay Example The Noble Truths refer to essential realizations Siddhartha Guatama is believed to have attained on his path towards spiritual enlightenment. They demonstrate a spiritual concern with the resistance of material longing, the cessation of suffering, and how to apply Siddhartha’s teachings to help achieve the highest good. This essay examines the highest good humans can achieve in regards to Buddhist thought and considers whether I agree with this as an ideal. Buddhist philosophy argues in that in achieving the highest good individuals should accept suffering as an indelible part of the human condition (Humpherys 53). Buddhism argues that the positive value of life isn’t diminished by the truth of suffering, but by acceptance of life’s evanescence the human attains a higher degree of good (Davids 165). The Buddhist path to enlightenment has an answer to the problem of suffering. The Buddha found that when we experience happiness and joy, it is our spiritual duty to objectively remove ourselves from these experiences and become consciously aware of their impermanence. Buddhist philosophy contends that the human experience of joy and happiness is merely a reaction to a circumstance and not a permanent mental state. The very structural nature of happiness then includes the binary existence of unhappiness – the two are inseparable; therefore, even as happiness is impermanent, so is suffering. Ultimately, it’s believed that in recognition and acceptance the suffering, the human achieves a more relaxed mental state that leads to their realizing the highest degree of good. Another Buddhist element related to achieving the highest good is the belief that since suffering is a result of material longing and desire by eliminating material longing and desire, one can eliminate suffering and move towards achieving this highest good. While this is a simple formulation, the actual challenge of eliminating desire is extremely difficult. Craving can also be extended to include the gratification of the passions, or the longing we have for an abstract sense of accomplishment of success in our earthly lives. The Second Noble Truth states that if we persist in allowing our lives to be dominated by desire and ignorance we will always be haunted by an unachievable longing and pervasive suffering. Therefore, the Buddha states that to achieve the highest good one must be guided by what is, not what is desired. One must fight against their preconditioned ways of longing and desire and accept the world and their place as it currently exists, as this is the only path to the highest good. In following these Noble Truths the individual is able to achieve the highest good, or Nirvana. This is a spiritual state that transcends all traditional concerns with material existence. In considering these means of achieving the highest good I recognize that I generally disagree with this ideal. To begin with, I disagree with the idea that all of l ife is suffering, as one might argue that such a characterization of the human condition is overly pessimistic. When Buddha developed the Four Noble Truths the Indian people faced considerable difficulties in life. Their subsistence was harder earned than we experience today, and I believe that this element of Buddhist philosophy can be seen to be a response to this challenge of existence, rather than an accurate reflection of the human condition. While all humans experience suffering, to claim that this is one

International Study-1 Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

International Study-1 - Assignment Example In this regard, it can be stated that Japan as well as the United States have become the world’s largest net international borrower during this stage. Moreover, it has also been revealed that the trend of foreign direct investment have also rapidly increased among the emerging European countries. With regards to determining the positive impacts of foreign direct investment on an economy, it is highly essential to identify the favorable factors, which may affect the political and financial conditions and growth of the economy in terms of encouraging more investments (Drezner 53-78; Markey and Ravenswood 1-26). However, the trend of foreign direct investment has completely changed during the early 21st century. In this regard, it can be asserted that foreign direct investment has improved the opportunities for larger organizations as well as multinational enterprises in terms of its scale and scope. At the same time, it can also be claimed that increased tendency of foreign direct investment has initiated competitive advantage among the global players. Moreover, it has also assisted multinational enterprises to perform their extensive and cross border business operations effectively in the global market (Drezner 53-78; Markey and Ravenswood 1-26). In this assignment, the objective is to identify the impact of the foreign direct investment on receiving countries in terms of positive and negative aspect. At the same time, the study will try to identify the effect of the foreign direct investment on the global multinational enterprises. Moreover, the study will also help in recognizing the performance of the economy in terms of micro as well as macroeconomics. Foreign direct investment has assisted developing countries’ to improve their economic performance in the global market context by improving trade. In this regard, it has been perceived that foreign direct investment has influenced the performance of the multinational

Writing Successful Essays Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Writing Successful Essays - Essay Example Coca-Cola became an international sensation and with the use of celebrities and now further trough their mobile units to connect more with people (dbase media, Coca-Cola Takes New Marketing Strategy) the brand has made good use of advertising. It also cosponsored major sports events such as the super bowl to its advantage. Through the expansion the company has made in setting up factories in developing countries Coca-Cola is able to cut down their cost of production due to cheap labor. However, the do manage to help the economy by creating new jobs as in Africa where 12000 jobs plus have been created (Coca-Cola, Supporting Small Business Development) and they donate a large amount to charity as well. Thus Coca-Cola not only manages to target their consumers through savvy use of advertising and marketing all the while increasing their sales but also helps the local economy of the countries they sell in making it an overwhelming brand. Following the three major concepts provided below as headings, create a model of argument structure by filling in more concepts related to the ones given here, then write down an argument about the structure you have created. Large corporations such as Coca-Cola have invested a large amount in taking the company from its small town business to a multi national corporation that it is today. With the expansion of the business the company has sought to set up factories in areas where it benefits them most in terms of costs and consumption. On the other hand, how exactly do companies such as these effect the economic health of the nation in which they build factories or decide to sell in. These effects could both be positive or negative. Coca-Cola has, from the time of its humble birth in 1886, till now has managed to take up a large amount of the global market for soft-drinks. It was concocted by Dr. John Stith Pemberton who sold the mixture at the local pharmacy at a

International Study-1 Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

International Study-1 - Assignment Example In this regard, it can be stated that Japan as well as the United States have become the world’s largest net international borrower during this stage. Moreover, it has also been revealed that the trend of foreign direct investment have also rapidly increased among the emerging European countries. With regards to determining the positive impacts of foreign direct investment on an economy, it is highly essential to identify the favorable factors, which may affect the political and financial conditions and growth of the economy in terms of encouraging more investments (Drezner 53-78; Markey and Ravenswood 1-26). However, the trend of foreign direct investment has completely changed during the early 21st century. In this regard, it can be asserted that foreign direct investment has improved the opportunities for larger organizations as well as multinational enterprises in terms of its scale and scope. At the same time, it can also be claimed that increased tendency of foreign direct investment has initiated competitive advantage among the global players. Moreover, it has also assisted multinational enterprises to perform their extensive and cross border business operations effectively in the global market (Drezner 53-78; Markey and Ravenswood 1-26). In this assignment, the objective is to identify the impact of the foreign direct investment on receiving countries in terms of positive and negative aspect. At the same time, the study will try to identify the effect of the foreign direct investment on the global multinational enterprises. Moreover, the study will also help in recognizing the performance of the economy in terms of micro as well as macroeconomics. Foreign direct investment has assisted developing countries’ to improve their economic performance in the global market context by improving trade. In this regard, it has been perceived that foreign direct investment has influenced the performance of the multinational

Charging Time Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Charging Time - Assignment Example Thus, Kevin’s independent moral duty is not compromised by taking the audit work home (Martocchio and Laio 222). At the same time, the consequence of losing clients is nullified by the fact that Kevin chooses not to charge the firm or the client for his time (Martocchio and Laio 222). Thus, Kevin should take the work home and not charge it to the job. If I were Kevin, it would be prudent to first increase my rate of audit work in order to cut on the time I use. The reason being, it will indicate an acceptance and a change in attitude to my work. Secondly, I would then work overtime and not charge the firm or client for this time. Doing so would prevent complacency by taking the remaining work with me home and ensure that all the day’s work is complete before I leave. On meeting 30 days later, I would explain my position to Bo and Moe as one in which I have taken action and made tremendous improvements in cutting down the time used in the audits. Hence, I deserve to remain in my position as I took their concerns positively and effected measures as evidenced by my

Animals Under Threat of Extinction

Animals Under Threat of Extinction More than 16,000 species of animals, birds, fish and plants are under serious threat of becoming extinct. Why is this, and is there anything we can do with it? Introduction: The panda, the tiger, the blue whale and the mountain gorilla. These are just a few examples of animals critically endangered with extinction. In fact, according to the IUCN Red List, about 22 percent of all mammal species are threatened by extinction. In this assignment, I will consider a statement in our English book; More than 16,000 species of animals, birds, fish and plants are under serious threat of becoming extinct. I chose this statement because I hadnt really considered the fact before, and was shocked after having done some research to find what extinction of that many species could mean to our planet. All I know at this point is what it says in the statement. What I would like to know after having written the assignment is whether this affects us or not and if it is a global problem. I would like to learn about extinction in general, and how species actually are extinct. I also want to find out if we can stop extinction, or if extinction is a natural part of species exist ence. Is this a global problem? Many of the endangered species are essential for other species survival, and in the long run, they might even play a big part of the existence of human beings. Every single species on earth is a part of a food chain. The extinction of a species may mean the end of another group of organisms. The eventual extinction of rainforests is a good example of this. The rainforests are a huge part of life on earth as we know it. It is assumed that between 50 and 70 percent of all species on earth are somehow connected to the rainforests, and research shows the rainforests hides millions of species yet to be discovered. Once, the glorious forests covered about 14 percent of the earths surface. Today, we are down to 6 percent, and it is decreasing by more than 6000 square metres every single day. This is not only a huge crisis for the wild life in the rainforests (research shows that nearly 150 species disappear every day because of the deforestation), but through the photosynthesis process, the rainforests are responsible for 28 percent of the earths oxygen turnover. This, combined with the heavy increase in the worlds population, might turn out to be a major problem. Additionally, by tearing down the rainforests, we might miss the cure for several deceases, considering that more than 25 percent of all natural medicines ever discovered, have their roots in the rainforests. We can assume that the last few remaining rainforests will be wiped of the face of the earth within 40 years. Extinction in general. The term extinction is used when a species reaches its end of existence. An estimated 99,9 percent of every species of animals and plants ever to have existed on our planet, are now extinct, and according to an environmental article in The Independant, scientists claim that about 50 percent of all existing species today will be extinct by the 22nd century. Most extinction happens before a race is even discovered. The definition extinction is used about a species when there are no more surviving members of the species that can reproduce, to create another generation of said species. Today, the group of extinct animals increases rapidly every day. According to a recent survey by the American Museum of Natural History, 70 percent thinks that this mass extinction is an even greater threat to our existence than climate changes. Most scientists also believe that the mass extinction and its consequences are greatly underestimated, and needs to be dealt with. Endangered species: According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature, about 40 percent of every living organism on our planet is threatened with extinction. This, of course, only includes the little percentage of species discovered. There are different grades of endangerment, according to the IUCN Red List of endangered species, the first being Least Concern. This means the species faces no current threat of extinction. Some examples are the common mouse and the wood pigeon. Next category is Near threatened, and includes animals such as the tiger shark and the solitary eagle. These species may be threatened by extinction soon. The third category is called Conservation dependent. Some species under this category are the spotted hyena and the killer whale, and they are not critically endangered, but conservation programs are required . Vulnerable is the fourth grade, and these species, including the komodo dragon and the polar bear, are currently facing a risk of becoming extinct. The blue whale and the giant panda are species categorised as Endangered, and are in near future facing a great risk of becoming extinct. The species under the category Critically Endangered are facing an extreme risk of becoming extinct in near future. A species in this group is the mountain gorilla. Extinct in the wild is the category with species where only members of the species in captivation exist. The last category is Extinct, and the species under this category have reached theyre end of existence. There are no living individuals of the species. The Extinct category includes the dodo, the mammoth and more recently, the Baiji river dolphin (the species was declared extinct in 2006) and the West-African black rhinoceros (declared extinct in 2006). Why and how does a species get extinct? There are several ways for a species to get extinct. One way for a species to get extinct is if a species in its food chain faces extinction. For example, in a specific forest, the fox, the rabbit and the grass may be a part of a food chain, where the main part of the foxs diet consists of rabbits, which main diet consists of grass. If one year, the amount of grass is lower than usual, the rabbits may be failing in numbers as well, due to lack of food, and this could lead to that the amount foxes will decrease as well, because they will have a smaller amount of rabbits to feed on. In this scenario, the fox would probably go ahead and find another main source of food, but lets say the food chain is to only consist of these three species. The next year, because the amount of rabbits being eaten by foxes is lower, because the foxes didnt have as much food as usual, and the number of foxes is lower than usual, there would be an increase in the stock of rabbits. The next year again, the n umber of foxes would increase, because there is more rabbits to feed on. And like this, the food chain runs in a loop. This shows that all species depend on each other, and the amount of one species depends on the amount of another species. Climate changes are another reason for animal extinction, and the main reason for the growing concern of the polar bears existence. According to this article from a Norwegian online newspaper, the polar bears are forced to swim much longer distances than before, because of the melting of the Arctic ice. This is a huge problem for the polar bear cubs, which simply are born with a layer of fat to thin to survive for long in the ice-cold water. The melting of the ice also means it is increasingly more difficult for the polar bears to find food. Another reason for species extinction is human interaction. The dodo and the West-African black rhinoceros are great examples of this. The dodo was first seen in the early 1600s when Dutch sailors discovered the island Mauritius. The dodo had stubby wings, and was heavy and slow, an easy target for hungry Dutchmen. In less than 80 years, the dodo was extinct. The sailors who ate them and the fact that their nests were destroyed by rodents the sailors had brought with them. The West-African black rhinoceros horn was believed to be a form for aphrodisiac in parts of Yemen and China, so the species was a popular target for hunters. The species was declared extinct, when conservationists where unable to find any remaining individuals, in 2006. Conclusion. I believe there is no way for us people to stop extinction caused by natural changes, as it is a natural part of a species existence. However, endangered species caused by human actions, such as species being hunted for a part of the animal, like elephants tusks, sharks fins and rhinoceros horns is possible to stop by refuse to support these actions. The same is for the destruction of the rainforests, which I believe we need to do something about. Species extinction caused by climate changes, on the other hand, I dont think we are going to be able to stop. We cant undo whatever damage we have already caused our planet. If the climate changes turns out to be a part of human actions though, we may be able to stop future extinctions caused by changes in the climate.

McDonalds :: essays papers

McDonalds This is an exciting and interesting essay to write for a number of reasons. For one it's an honour to make a research on one of the most profitable societies of the world, for second because the kindness of McDonald's employees and the precision of McDonald's Web site, are perfect sources for all kind of information that can help analyse through Porter's value chain, all the aspects of its value creation. In the late 1940s, Dick and Mac McDonalds were searching for a way to improve their little drive-in restaurant in San Bernardino, California, U.S.A.; they invented an entirely new concept based upon speed service, low prices, and big volumes. Word of its success spread quickly, in 1952 they had more than 300 franchising inquires a month from all over the country. McDonald's is now the largest and best-known foodservice retailer and one of the two best-known and powerful brands in the market. With more than 24,500 restaurants in 115 countries, some of those operated by the company, some by franchisees or by affiliates operating under joint-venture agreements. The global market potential is still huge: yet on any day, even as the market leader, McDonald's serves less than one percent of the world's population. The restaurant chain plans to expand their leadership position through convenience, superior value and excellent operations. The effort to increase market share, profita! bility and customer satisfaction has produced high returns to shareholders: a compound annual total earning of 21% over the past 10 years. McDonald's vision is to dominate the world-wide foodservice industry. Universal dominance means setting the performance standard for customer satisfaction and increasing market share and profitability through successful fulfilling McDonald's convenience, value and execution strategies. A precise way of considering McDonald's' role of operations is through Porter's value chain analysis. The Value chain breaks down the firm into its strategically relevant activities, in order to understand the behaviour of costs and the existing or potential sources of differentiation. A firm gains competitive advantage by performing these strategically important activities more cheaply or better than its rivals. For a company which feeds some 38 millions clients every day, finding a reliable quality supplies is a major factor for success. McDonald's has solved the problem by making food supplies part of their success. McDonald's distributors are strategically to be accessible to the each restaurant and carry practically everything, from meat and potatoes to lightbulbs. Coca-Cola, the right well-known drink, has been with McDonald's from the beginning supplying beverages. McDonald's is increasingly using its leverage to capitalise upon global purchasing practices. New restaurants throughout Europe feature tabletops from Belgium; chairs, floors and tiles from Italy; doors from Austria etc.

Essay --

There are three main reasons why nurses leave their profession in the hospital. The first reason is the relationships between other co-workers and physicians. Relationships may turn into a problem of miscommunication, which can cause major problems when communicating to one another and for the patient’s sake. Dr. Kerfoot states that relationship complications may lead to nurses fighting among themselves and not supporting one another, (Becker’s Hospital Review). Another reason for nursing turnover is staffing. In staffing, nurses may feel that their personal standards are not met by other workers and feel unworthy. Hospitals may also have acceptable staffing levels but unsystematic units, which can make giving orders a pain. The last reasons that many nurses leave their jobs are due to personal reasons. A nurse’s job is very stressful and can cause nurses to become fatigue, and dislike their current jobs; nurses are prone to making mistakes and medical errors ( ANA, 2014). Nursing shortage and nursing turnover can deeply affect the future care of a patient and the concord in the healthcare system. Healthcare facilities take awareness of the situation among nurses and chose to carry out the situation in specific ways. Contributing Factors to Nursing Shortage Nursing shortage is a crisis in hospitals nationwide. The main contributing factors on the current shortage are the steep population growth resulting in a growing need for health care services, a diminishing pipeline of new nursing students, and an aging nursing workforce (Honor Society of Nursing, 2013). Many new managers want new nurses who are worth half the price as older workers; also many old workers are ready for retirement, so they are required to be paid more. Many ... ...ills of the manager can be divided into simple categories of: leadership skills, people skills, budgeting and finance, quality of care skills, and information technology skills. According to Porter-O’Grady (1997, 1999), he observed that advanced knowledge of technology has provided and changed the traditional hierarchy of leadership (Susan O. Valentine, 2013). Today’s technology takes grammar, spelling, and punctuation to a new level of error prevention, which can help reach out to key individuals and other staff member’s. For nurse managers, people skills include interviewing new employees and conducting staff meetings with others on future employees. Understanding the financial state of a health care unit is vital in finding a way to help keep other nurses and to keep them satisfied. Managers should analyze the situation and the budget crisis of all employees. Essay -- There are three main reasons why nurses leave their profession in the hospital. The first reason is the relationships between other co-workers and physicians. Relationships may turn into a problem of miscommunication, which can cause major problems when communicating to one another and for the patient’s sake. Dr. Kerfoot states that relationship complications may lead to nurses fighting among themselves and not supporting one another, (Becker’s Hospital Review). Another reason for nursing turnover is staffing. In staffing, nurses may feel that their personal standards are not met by other workers and feel unworthy. Hospitals may also have acceptable staffing levels but unsystematic units, which can make giving orders a pain. The last reasons that many nurses leave their jobs are due to personal reasons. A nurse’s job is very stressful and can cause nurses to become fatigue, and dislike their current jobs; nurses are prone to making mistakes and medical errors ( ANA, 2014). Nursing shortage and nursing turnover can deeply affect the future care of a patient and the concord in the healthcare system. Healthcare facilities take awareness of the situation among nurses and chose to carry out the situation in specific ways. Contributing Factors to Nursing Shortage Nursing shortage is a crisis in hospitals nationwide. The main contributing factors on the current shortage are the steep population growth resulting in a growing need for health care services, a diminishing pipeline of new nursing students, and an aging nursing workforce (Honor Society of Nursing, 2013). Many new managers want new nurses who are worth half the price as older workers; also many old workers are ready for retirement, so they are required to be paid more. Many ... ...ills of the manager can be divided into simple categories of: leadership skills, people skills, budgeting and finance, quality of care skills, and information technology skills. According to Porter-O’Grady (1997, 1999), he observed that advanced knowledge of technology has provided and changed the traditional hierarchy of leadership (Susan O. Valentine, 2013). Today’s technology takes grammar, spelling, and punctuation to a new level of error prevention, which can help reach out to key individuals and other staff member’s. For nurse managers, people skills include interviewing new employees and conducting staff meetings with others on future employees. Understanding the financial state of a health care unit is vital in finding a way to help keep other nurses and to keep them satisfied. Managers should analyze the situation and the budget crisis of all employees.

Ap European History Timeline Project

The Peace of Augsburg The Peace of Augsburg was signed in 1555, ending the wars of religion in the Holy Roman Empire. It stated that the leaders of the many provinces in the Empire can decide what religion they wanted their people to follow. This treaty recognized Lutheran Protestants and Catholics, but not Calvinism. This essentially was the first time in the Holy Roman Empire that another religion was allowed, besides Catholicism. Treaty of Westphalia Signed in 1648, the Treaty of Westphalia once again ended a religious war, the Thirty Years’ War. It was the treaty that recognized Calvinism, finally, along with Lutheranism and Catholicism. It used the same policy as the treaty before, The Peace of Augsburg. The Holy Roman Empire had effectively become a collection of different states and provinces with differing religious views ruled by mainly Hapsburgs. Peace of Paris The Peace of Paris was signed in 1763. It was signed in a peace agreement to end the Seven Years’ War. Britain obtained much of French lands in the Americas, beginning their extensive dominance outside of continental Europe. However, the French obtained the West Indies, which was also a treasure for them. Prussia and Austria were not included in the treaty, instead signing a different treaty, the Treaty of Hubertusburg. Congress of Vienna The Congress of Vienna was a meeting of the leaders of many countries from Europe to decide what to do after the Napoleonic Wars. The â€Å"Final Act† of the treaty was signed just days after his final defeat at Waterloo. The Bourbons of France were restored as the monarchs and Napoleon was exiled once again. The balance of power in Europe had been restored. It was signed in 1814. The Frankfurt Assembly This was the first freely elected parliament for all of Germany. After long discussion and debates in 1849, a new constitution was drawn up. It outlined the entire German Empire’s government, including the hereditary emperor, the Kaiser. This constitution was then later used as the basis for the constitution of the Weimar Republic and for the Federal Republic of Germany in 1949. Overall, the Frankfurt Assembly had a huge impact on the future of Germany.

Mutations

Cancer is a disease of genes that gone out of control. Certain genes that direct the orderly replication of cells have malfunctioned and cause the cell to divide unabated. Eventually, these damaged cells spread into neighboring cells of other tissues and multiply all over the body. All cancer is genetic in origin, that is, it is initially set off by altered genes. However, just a tiny portion of cancer is inherited: a mutation carried in reproductive cells, passed on from one generation to the next, and present in cells throughout the body. Most cancers come from random mutations that develop in body cells during one's lifetime – either as a mistake when cells are going through cell division or in response to injuries from environmental agents such as radiation or chemicals. Cancer usually arises in a single cell. The cell's progress from normal to malignant to metastatic appears to follow a series of distinct steps, each one controlled by a different gene or set of genes. Several types of genes have been implicated. Oncogenes normally encourage cell growth; when mutated or overexpressed, they can flood cells with signals to keep on dividing. Tumor-suppressor genes normally restrain cell growth; when missing or inactivated by a mutation, they allow cells to grow and divide uncontrollably. (The inherited genes that predispose for breast and ovarian cancer, Li-Fraumeni syndrome, retinoblastoma, Wilms' tumor, and familial adenomatous polyposis are malfunctioning tumor-suppressor genes.) DNA repair genes appear to trigger cancer – and perhaps other inherited disorders – not by spurring cell growth but by failing to correct mistakes that occur as DNA copies itself, letting mutations accumulate at thousands of sites. (Genes that have been linked to hereditary colon cancer are such â€Å"proofreader† genes.)   

Age of Enlightenment and Course Materials

Candide worksheetName: Huy Dang Khac The purpose of this assignment is to help you develop the critical thinking skills necessary to write a basic, college-level analytical essay. You may type directly into this file and then upload when finished. Remember that you need to connect what you read in the book to what you are learning from other course materials to complete you answers. Step I: Basic, factual analysis of a reading 1. List three examples of events/methods from Voltaire’s Candide which you believe best illustrate the issues related to the Scientific Revolution and to the Enlightenment. . The reaction of the Portuguese Inquisitor about the earthquake. b. The lifestyle of people in El Dorado. c. The despair of Paquette and the monk Brother Giroflee 2. Now for each point above, explain why this example illustrates these issues. a. Tsunami and earthquake’s acknowledgement are proof of developing science. The reaction of the Inquisitor for trying to kill Candide a nd Pangloss because of the earthquake is a typical example of the abuse of the church on people.It’s used to prove that what the church said is wrongful and people foolishly believe in what they are told. b. El Dorado is essentially the utopia of nobles, people living during the Enlightenment era. Street are covered with precious stones No Priests All of the king’s jokes are funny. Nobody care about gold or fighting over gold in the kingdom. King is kind and helpful. c. It’s the freedom of expression about their philosophies in life. They are noticing the ugly truth of their life as a sexual object and obeying religion against the will of person. . Finally, place each point above into the historical context (this means to make direct connections of this point to other specific information you have learned about the era from the other course materials) a. The Lisbon earthquake in Nov 1, 1755. b. French revolution in 18th century. c. The Seven Years War. 4. Compar e Candide to the Appendix from Theodicity by Wilhelm Gottfried Leibnitz (found in the course materials under Assignments and Quizzes / Candide Assignment). List one example where the two sources agree. God did not choose the best course. . List one example where the two sources differ from each other. Every event is predetermined. 6. What do you think it means if the materials agree? It’s consistent among authors about the philosophy of religion belief/ life. Therefore, it’s a creditable source of outcome for further studies. When a material is proven to be true in two or more sources, its defense is stronger to believe in. It’s easier for readers, scholars to utilize in debating an issue. It opens way for discussion of an idea from multi perspectives. 7.What should you do with information that differs? First, I don’t pick which side I’ll support and which I’ll not. Search for facts (if possible), logical reasoning. Evaluating idea from my o wn experiences. Asking other people about their thought on both sides, then I compare and contrast both idea against each other’s. The result could end up be one side over another or a combination of both. PART II: How to use a period piece of literature (here answer the questions using your common sense and critical thinking skills) 1.List two reasons why students should be cautious in using a piece of literature in historical analysis. a. Piece of literature consists of belief and opinions, which are strongly opposed to historical analysis requiring good use of data, event. b. Piece of literature is written in a mocking way of the real society. Students should pay attention to the reliability of author of such piece to avoid bias in historical analysis. 2. Give an example from Voltaire’s book for each of the reasons raised a bove. a.Candide and Pangloss’s optimism – which are reflecting the belief of Voltaire They are opinion not facts. There are uncert ainties about the truth of the society behind this thought. b. Voltaire’s idea of El Dorado: Once again, this is the utopia of Voltaire, which may or may not be the haven of other people. Believing in such event is over generalizing the thought of people in the society. 3. List two reasons why students should use a period piece of literature. a. It gives the idea, thought of people who are living in the society at that time.It’s more relevant than assuming the life condition base on dry facts. b. It’s useful when students want to do a compare and contrast to the theory they are studying. It gives students various perspectives to view an issue. 4. Now give an example from Voltaire’s book for each of the reasons raised above. a. The tsunami, earthquake in Lisbon and the reaction of the Inquisitor. b. Life of labor in the society during the whole stories. PART III: Sketching out an Essay In this section of the worksheet, you will see how all the course mater ials start to come together.If you were writing an essay, you would want to draw your conclusions and make your inferences using a wide variety of examples to make your points and provide supporting evidence (which would likely lead to an â€Å"A† paper). Keep this in mind as you answer the rest of the questions here. Now, suppose I were to assign the following essay topic (DO NOT WRITE AN ESSAY): In the period between the middle of the seventeenth century and the French Revolution Europe underwent a period of transformation in terms of scientific and social thought with had far-reaching implications in legal issues as well.Examine the impact of the Scientific Revolution and the Enlightenment on European politics, law, and society. What examples would you use from Candide book (taking into consideration the concepts we have just worked with in Parts I and II) to back up/illustrate your analysis of each of the following points (give one example per each). Once again, you need to consider ALL that you have learned from the course materials, not just from reading this book. 1. One key impact of the Scientific Revolution and the Enlightenment on European society: 2.One key impact of the Scientific Revolution and the Enlightenment on European politics: 3. One key impact of the Scientific Revolution and the Enlightenment on European law: Now broaden out your analysis to use other documents/textbook/readings or other non-textbook materials/lectures. Give two examples for each of the three categories above: 1. Scientific Revolution like Copernicus’s theories about the earth and sun, which the earth is not the center of our solar system.This went against the way that churches were teaching (Before, Plato believed that Earth was the center of the universe). Also, Galileo Galilei with the discovery of telescope and the law of the pendulum, both prove that Aristole was wrong. Both of them prove that Church could be wrong in science by their scientific method and reason. In the end, people began to ask themselves that what if they can understand other things in life by using scientific method and reason. Started back in 1500s, people went on to use reason, experiment, and observations to develop and progress. . John Locke was a philosopher. He believed that people were able to govern themselves; therefore he did not like the absolute monarch. He wanted more power for ordinary people (because everybody is born free and were right to life, liberty, and property. Later, his book had a big effect on what we think about politics and government today. Voltaire was one of the most important philosophers of the Enlightenment. He spent much of his life to criticize the church for freedom of religion and speech.In Voltaire’s idea, the best ruler would be an enlightened monarch, who studied the science of government and protected the basic rights of the people. The philosophes were concerned about social and religious issues. They encourage d education as the way to end ignorance, and superstition. 3. Deism was the idea that universe was created by a higher being (God). According to deist, there are no supernatural acts, such as miracles, manifestation, messages; they considered it as religious superstition.The Spirit of the Laws by Montesquieu, who argued that power of the king, came from people, not from God or Divine Right. In conclusion, the Enlightenment changed the way that people thought about science, religion, politics, and laws. We can still see those effects in our lives today. Now, if you were really writing an essay, you would have organized all of your strong examples to use in supporting your â€Å"big picture† analysis that comes from the text and lecture materials. You are ready to write a well-organized, critical thinking analytical essay on the above topic (DO NOT DO THIS).

Analyze rhythm of Let America Be America Again by Langston Hughes Essay

Analyze rhythm of Let America Be America Again by Langston Hughes - Essay Example After the first three stanzas, there is a couplet that is rhyming and after it, the rhyming scheme that is adopted in the first three stanzas changes. The poem contains the rhyming scheme of blues and jazz that is a special feature of Black poetry (Roberts and Jacobs 2007). Similarly, the words, â€Å"I am the† and many others are employed to create a rhythm in the poem. Moreover rhyming words are used in stanzas to create a rhythm with the help of rhyme such as â€Å"be and free†, â€Å"again and plain†, â€Å"love and above†, â€Å"sleek and weak†, â€Å"greed and need† and many more. The length of stanzas and lines vary in order to put stress on some lines. After seeing the poem, the poem also appears a free verse at many points as the rhyming pattern seems somehow absent with a little rhyme absent such as: In the above-mentioned stanza, only â€Å"me† and â€Å"be† are rhyming, remaining all the stanza is deprived of a rhyming scheme. The poem uses a lot of repetitive words such as â€Å"America†, â€Å"millions†, â€Å"Whose†, â€Å"all†, â€Å"And† and many phrases such as â€Å"Let it be† and â€Å"Who are you†. The author is unhappy about his land, America. To him, he is not allowed to get equal right for each and every field of life. Hughes writes the poem, â€Å"Let America Be America Again† from the perspective of a black man such as Whitman has written from his perspective. The tone of the poem is somewhat pessimistic as the author is not happy with the current condition of America and regards it as a changed state. Rhythm is also created because of the reiteration or recurrence of stresses and pauses. Hughes makes use of repeated anaphora. For example, in the first lines by making use of the repeated anaphora of â€Å"Let it be†, Hughes acknowledges the fact that America is not what it should be and informs the reader with his perspective in a

Value Chain Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Value Chain - Term Paper Example The company aims to achieve its mission and vision by fulfilling the needs of varied customers spread at different locations globally. The company ensures that it provides the best quality products at the best and affordable prices which are further accompanied with best services within the industry (Ashley Furniture Industries Inc, â€Å"A Proud History and Poised for a Formidable Future†). Thesis Statement The paper critically identifies the value chain activities practiced by Ashley Furniture Industries, Inc and briefly recommends on various core areas of the company in relation to value chain. Value Chain and Ashley Furniture The term ‘Value Chain’ was first coined by Michel Porter in his famous book ‘Competitive Advantage’ in 1985. The analysis of value chain identifies the activities performed by an organization and further relates them with the organization’s competitive strengths. Porter identifies primary and secondary activities as th e two major activities essential for value chain analysis. He further grouped the primary activities into five sub-heads including inbound logistics, operations, outbound logistics, marketing and sales and services which are concerned with the value creation as well as delivery of products. Similarly, secondary activities are also grouped into four sub-heads namely, human resource management, technology development, infrastructure and procurement. The secondary activities help organizations to enhance the efficiency and the effectiveness of the overall organizational operations (Food and Agriculture organization of the United Nations, â€Å"The Value Chain†). The basic model of value chain is being represented below: Source: (Food and Agriculture organization of the United Nations, â€Å"The Value Chain†) Primary Activities Inbound Logistics Ashley Furniture aims to produce world class durable furniture in attractive designs and affordable prices. Furthermore, the comp any ensures that by no means are its product qualities compromised; and customers receive value for their investment made in terms of durable and finished products. The company has partnered with best class suppliers for the supply of a variety of components required for the manufacturing of the furniture products. In addition to this, the company has the largest air-ride truck fleet in the industry which can be evident on the highways of Wisconsin (Wisconsin Manufactures and Commerce, â€Å"BPES-Ashley Furniture†). The tractors involved in the transportation of required components for the manufacturing process are equipped with auxiliary power units that result in less consumption of fuel almost by 10 percent. Additionally, the company is also striving to procure materials locally in order to reduce the cost of transportation and thereby offer its products at affordable prices to its discriminating customers (Ashley Furniture Industries, Inc, â€Å"Ashley World Class Furnit ure Company†). Operations Ashley Furniture has more than 250 acres operating space for manufacturing and distribution throughout the world. It has the biggest casegoods production related plant in the United States. The company sells furniture in more than 123 countries around the globe. The major regional manufacturing and

Supply Chain Management Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 6

Supply Chain Management - Essay Example However, there are many challenges that companies face while trying to improve supply chain management. One big challenge that they face is customer service, which means that ensuring that the products that a customer want are delivered at the right place and at the right time is a huge challenge for companies. This is made worse by the fact that the number of customers keeps on rising and meeting their needs is the only way they can maintain them because of the high competition in today’s market (RFID STUDY GROUP at Pennsylvania State University, 2006). The other challenge is cost control; this is because companies in order to improve their supply chain management have to find a way to control costs. These are hard tasks considering their operating costs are under a lot of pressure. These pressures that cause an upswing in operating costs rise from, regular technology upgrades and advancements to keep up with the competitors, global customers who require goods to be shipped to them, expansion in costs of healthcare and constant increase in commodity prices. These pressures are not under companies’ control and, therefore, controlling them becomes a very hard task that leads to operating costs of supply chain management being high. The other challenge is risk management and planning since supply chain management requires a lot of good planning and the right strategy for managing risks involved (W.K, P, & K.H, L, 2000). This is because this process has to be assessed periodically and its design has to keep on changing to ensure that market changes are accommodated. Companies have to identify risks and quantify as well as controlling them. There are constant changes in supply chain management such as introduction of new products to the market, new acquisition, new intellectual property to be protected, as well as maintenance of assets and security of shipping products. All these have to be planned and integrated prior to the process to

Explain how to determine the credibility of sources of information Essay

Explain how to determine the credibility of sources of information including institutions, organizations, agencies, periodicals, and other resources - Essay Example As it has been observed, the real strength of a student’s writing rests in large part on the quality of research informing his or her argument (Engle, 17). It is thus important to recognize the types of resources used for instance peer and non peer reviewed articles. Peer reviewed articles refer to those articles read by subject experts before being published in a journal (Engle, 22). These articles need to pass through the review process as a way of ensuring that the published articles exhibit the highest quality in their fields. On the other hand, non peer reviewed articles are those articles that have not been revised by an expert or passed through the review process (Engle, 24). There are a few differences that exist between peer reviewed articles and non peer reviewed articles for instance, while peer reviewed articles are closely checked to ensure they are correct unlike non peer reviewed articles. Additionally, peer reviewed articles are given more authority as compared to non peer reviewed articles. Peer reviewed articles hold under scrutiny of one’s peers, who are considered experts in similar fields. Non peer reviewed articles allows for any type of information to get out into the media, especially onto the internet, without bei ng scrutinized (Engle, 27). Considering the fact that a lot of non peer reviewed information passes through to the media, especially periodicals and magazines, it is important to determine the credibility of sources of information. There are various ways in which one can determine the credibility of sources for instance checking the domain name or the home page. A person can also look for who the author of the particular article is, and ensure whether or not they can find out about that individual or organization (Engle, 29). It is also important to determine the type of site one is considering, for instance; if