The First Samurai

Japan in the 10th century was experiencing change and disorder as its relatively new central government sought techniques for a strong and enduring legacy. In this period lived a man named Taira no Masakado. In events which are swirled with mystery and legend, Masakado found himself in direct opposition with the government, even proclaiming the title of the â€Å"New Emperor†. His legacy endures to this day and is a fundamental component in contemporary Japanese folklore.Was Masakado a product of his environment or a self-motivated rebel, examining this question is important in the discussions of the motivations behind his actions. Whether he should be viewed as a villain or a hero is to be considered by the reader. Taira no Masakado is both revered as a hero and accused of being a trader. When considering the beginning of Masakado’s conquests it is important to note that not much is known of the exact motives of his first altercation with Minamoto Tasuku.All that is cl ear is that Minamoto sprang a surprise attack on Masakado as he neared the Hitachi region. Why was Masakado riding towards Hitachi with a group of armed men? Why did Minamoto attack Masakado? Both of these questions are vital in determining the real nature of Masakado and would link to the motives of his actions from this battle to his demise. The lack of answers to these questions seriously hinders one’s attempt at revealing Taira Masakado as a villain or hero. The events of Masakado’s insurrection seem to suggest that his actions were not justified and that he knew this.After being attacked by Minamoto, Masakado went on a rampage attacking many villages in southern Hitachi. Regardless of the dispute between the two, it is improbable that all of the victims of his attack were directly involved or deserving of murder. Preceding these events, Masakado is summoned to Kyoto to argue his case against allegations brought by the Minamoto family. Masakado is quick to travel t o Kyoto to explain himself, then, when he arrives back in Shimosa he is attacked by Yokishane.Looking for payback from the attacks in Hitachi, Yokishane aggressively seeks Masakado, even abducting his wife in the process. Having just been found innocent in Kyoto for his attacks in Hitachi, would it not make sense for Masakado to bring accusations against Yokishane? Masakado does not seek government help in deterring Yokishane, this suggests that he knew he was in the wrong and was hesitant to return to Kyoto, mainly because he felt as if he got lucky at his previous hearing.Skipping to Masakado’s confrontation with Sadamori in Hitachi, as Masakado wins the battle, storming the provincial capital grounds in the process, one gets a sense of the sudden panic defining his proceeding actions. Masakado immediately flees home to Shimosa. Once home, in an utterly confusing turn of events, Masakado heads out again, this time to conquer a handful of other eastern provinces. Instead of formerly addressing the rulers in Kyoto as the â€Å"new emperor† of the east or even as an adversary, Masakado writes a letter in an attempt to explain his actions and how they are justified.Using his imperial family ties, he tries to undermine the stories of his actions as propaganda from his opposers and claim that he remains loyal to the government. This is the act of a desperate man; a man who, maybe, has realized that he has made a grave mistake. Masakado wanted to believe that his conquests were justified, yet based on his actions it is apparent that he was not and knew it. Not having a strong cause and knowing he made a mistake defines Masakado as a villain, not a hero.It is likely that Masakado’s position in society and experiences deluded him and was a contributing factor to his demise. In this time period of Japan, in an attempt to preserve the integrity of the imperial family, fourth generation members of the imperial family were removed from the bloodline by way of changing their family name. Taira was used in the renaming and is the surname of Masakado. This link to the imperial family would have affected Masakado’s view of himself in society. Being a known descendent, he would have felt a sense of entitlement that could create an egotistical mindset.The feeling of superiority would have amplified when his father used his influence to secure an internship in Kyoto with the government for his son. Expecting to obtain a full-time position in Kyoto, it would have been very disappointing to return home with no long term position or title. This event probably added to the aggressive nature of Masakado as an adult. Having been denied a chance to participate in the government, as he felt entitled to, Masakado from then on decides to take matters into his own hands working as if he holds the title which he never received.The sense of entitlement and his failure to succeed in Kyoto helped to define the character traits that motivate M asakado for the rest of his life. Taira no Masakado remains an important component of contemporary Japanese folklore. Natural disasters, economic downturns, and other misfortunes are often attributed to times when the shrine to Masakado is neglected. The fascination with this legend plays a taboo role in Japanese culture. The story reveals a man who is individualistic and bold in his opposition to authority.For a society which is group oriented and generally suppressed for most of its history, Masakado's legacy is intriguing and mysterious. Although interpretation of Masakado differs, his lack of a consistent cause and his hesitation suggests the actions of a villain. Feeling a sense of entitlement from his imperial ties and not being accepted into Kyoto’s bureaucracy were critical in his motivations. Leading the first recorded rebellion since the establishment of a unified government in Japan, Taira no Masakado has solidified himself into Japanese culture today.

E †Marketing of the Music Products Essay

The success of music marketing traditionally has been determined by the power of the musicians artists and the consumers. However there had been a quantum change in the power recently thanks to the increased use of information and communication technology. The music industry had long held the power to control the development of the marketing, but the advent of the internet and the technological advancement in the information and communication technology has allowed the artistes and consumers to take power of their own. There were initial apprehensions about the impact of the internet on the marketing of the music industry due to the presence of file-sharing and peer-to-peer networks that might hinder the growth of sales of the music products. However it so happened that the internet has opened up a sea of chances for the growth of the marketing of the music products through the development of new retail channels for consumers as well as for the artistes to take advantage of the increased customer net work. This marketing channel has made much more music available to a much wider and larger set of audience and consumers. Punjabi music and songs have been estimated to originate between the 14th and 15th century, as folklore with the farmers composing songs in their own dialects and tunes. There are different varieties of Punjabi music that enthrall the music lovers. The Punjabi music market had grown with the time by selling the products through recorded cassette tapes and then through the medium of compact discs. With the passage of time the internet marketing has taken over the reins and the industry developed with newer and improved technological means of marketing the ancient cultural treasure. The internet marketing has proved to be an effective platform for the Punjabi music to gain popularity not only in India but throughout the world. There is a huge difference in the marketing strategy and approaches of the Punjabi music industry before and after the introduction of internet as a marketing medium. Internet marketing has made the industry to constantly work on finding new strategies to develop the marketing efforts. While originally it was apprehended that features like file sharing and peer-to-peer networks will hamper the growth of the sale of Punjabi music products, there were no such hindrances in reality and the industry is growing day by day with the introduction of new and improved music themes. With the help of internet marketing the purchasing of music products has improved considerably and this has increased the customer needs and preferences. In this context this study looks at the contribution of internet marketing to the growth of sale of Punjabi music products and how internet has helped the music industry to introduce new and improved methods of marketing. The scope of the study is to review the development of the Punjabi music industry over the period of time along with the development of the internet marketing concept. The study also analyses the problems in the music industry associated with the development of the internet market. 1. 1 Research Objectives While looking at the overall development of the internet marketing of the Indian Punjabi music the study has other objectives like 1. Comparing the differences in the marketing approaches prior to the introduction and development of the internet marketing and the present day approaches backed by internet marketing. 2. Exploring the available present and future technologies that can help the music industry grow 3. Analysing the impact of these technologies on the conduct of business and development of marketing for the music industry in general 4. Reviewing the response of the music industry to the technological developments 5. Assessing the impact the internet marketing had on the consumer preferences and tastes in the context of the music industry in general and Punjabi music in particular 6. Assessing the impact of file sharing and peer-to-peer networks on the internet marketing of the music products. 7. Assessing the possibility of turning the illegitimate music routes to legitimate saleable propositions. 1. 2 Research Scope The study intends to review the development of the marketing concept of the music industry in general and the Punjabi music in particular over the period of time till the introduction of the concept of internet marketing and how the marketing concepts have changed over time. This can be seen from the changes in consumer preferences over the time in them asking new and more improved ways of listening to the music without losing the quality of the music. Examples in this connection are the I-pods and MP3 concepts. The findings of this study will greatly interest the music lovers as well as the music industry because some interesting information on the E-marketing strategies would be evolved which can help them to adapt to the latest developments in the technology. The study will also extend to the analysis of the reasons and extent of piracy prevalent in the music industry and the scope for converting such piracies to saleable propositions. Overall the study aims at reviewing the growth of the music industry over the period of technological improvements. 1. 3 Research Questions This study attempts to answer the following research questions among other things: 1. What is the impact of technological developments in the marketing growth of the music industry in general and Indian Punjabi music in particular? 2. What are the changes in the consumer preferences in respect of the music products with the development of internet marketing in the music industry? 3. What are the chances that piracy in the E-marketing can be contained with respect to the music products? 1. 4 Structure of the Dissertation In order to make a cohesive presentation this dissertation has been divided in to different chapters. Chapter 1 makes a brief introduction to the readers about the background of the Punjabi music and the internet marketing being the subject the thesis is going to deal. This chapter also outlines the objectives of the research and sets the questions that the research intends to find answers. Chapter 2 makes a detailed review of the available literature on the internet marketing of the music products and the associated issues with a view to familiarize the readers to the discussions on the core subject of the paper ‘Impact of Internet on Indian Punjabi Music Industry: An overview on the Internet Marketing of the Music Products’ . Chapter 3 presents an account of the research methodology that was adopted to gather the information and data needed for the completion of the research along with a justification for the chosen method of research. The findings of the research and an analysis there of constitutes Chapter 4. Some concluding remarks recapitulating the issues discussed forming the content of the text is presented in the final chapter 5. There were certain limitations of this research which are mentioned in the concluding chapter. Chapter 2 Literature Review The scope of this chapter extends to the presentation of a review of the available literature on the subject of the impact of the internet marketing on the Indian Punjabi music industry. While reviewing the literature on this particular subject the study also extends to an analysis of the impact of E-marketing on the music industry and its products. 2. 1 Indian Punjabi Music – a Background As observed earlier the origin of the Indian Punjabi music dates back to the 14th or 15 the century. Developed as folklore the music had the exquisite character of instilling energy and rhythm in to the lives of those who sing these songs. There are a number of varieties of Punjabi songs like â€Å"bhangara, jhumar, luddi, giddha, julli† and so on. The music had a vibrant style which made it popular in the world and with the migration of the people the music also travelled westwards. With the fascination for this kind of music the Punjabi music and songs have acquired a greater significance in the international world of music. Music charts are being prepared with the flavor of this Asian culture. The Punjabi music has developed to such an extent that it is compared with other popular music like rock and reggae. Even European songs are infused with the mixture of the Punjabi music and songs and have attracted music lovers all over the world. (Indian Child) 2. 1. 1 Development of Indian Punjabi Music ‘Bhangra’ one of the traditional forms of Indian Punjabi music has become increasingly popular in the Western music cultures over the period. With a tradition of more than 500 years old ‘bhangra’ which was performed during harvest festivals was increasingly being performed in weddings and other joyous occasions like New Year celebrations. According to Asia Today though the Indian Punjabi music ‘bhangra’ is still performed in its traditional form, in recent years the music has taken new versions in the form of ‘remixes, film songs, hip-hop, reggae and house music’ and through these new forms has developed a growing Western audience in the regions of Europe and North America. The music has seen its developments in the UK during the 1970s when it started influencing the British club scenes. The development of the music has been accelerated due to the presence of a large section of South Asian Diaspora especially belonging to the second generation youngsters in the whole of Europe and more specifically in the UK. In the recent past ‘bhangra’ has reverted back to its original drum beats and it is sure that this music will enthrall more audience world wide in the years to come (Asia Today)

Women's rights Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words - 1

Women's rights - Essay Example American Slavery. American women."( Fuller, 123). The previous year has seen movement in the Rhode Island council, to secure wedded ladies rights over their own particular property, where men demonstrated that a next to no examination of the subject could show them. To a great extent acknowledged, composed by a lady, instigated, it is said, by glaring wrong to a recognized companion, having indicated the imperfections in the existing laws, and the state of estimation from which they spring; and a reply from the loved old man, J. Q. Adams, in a few regards the Phocion of his time, to a location made him by a few women. These indications of the times have gone under perspective inadvertently: one who looks for, may, every month or week, gather more. The various gatherings, whose slants are now marked and balanced an excessive amount to their brain to concede to any new light, strive, by addresses on some model lady of spouse like magnificence and tenderness, by composing and loaning little arrangements, expected to check out with exactness the breaking points of Womans circle, and Womans mission, to anticipate other than the legitimate shepherd from climbing the divider, or the group from utilizing any opportunity to wander off. A high apex, or in any event a cathedral spire, might be attractive. It may well be an abolitionism party that argues for Woman, on the off chance that we think about only that she doesnt hold property on equivalent terms with men; so that, if a spouse bites the dust without making a will, the wife, as opposed to taking immediately his spot as leader of the family, inherits just a piece of his fortune, regularly brought him independent from anyone else, as though she were a tyke, or ward just, not an equivalent accomplice. The degenerate and unmoving men live upon the profit of enterprising wives; or if the wives abandon them, and bring with them the youngsters, to

Spiritual Assessment Tools Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Spiritual Assessment Tools - Essay Example This research will begin with the statement that spirituality is an aspect of life that is related to holistic nursing in terms of beliefs and behaviors. Dossey gave an understanding of spirituality as that broad concept which takes into account values, rationale and meaning; one’s turns towards the human traits of personal sincerity, devotion, caring, understanding, empathy, and imagination; a graceful, dynamic poise allowing and creating body-mind-spirit restoration to health; and the existence of a quality of a higher authority, that guides mystical transcendence and personal spirit. On spirituality still, Pamela Reed adds to the definition that spirituality is entirely about expressions of developmental capacity for self-transcendence. Spirituality can be perceived as that very close affiliation that exists between an individual and a supreme being who is believed to be directing anyone’s beliefs and practices during the life time. Spiritual Assessment carried out b y medical practitioners is the fundamental process of gathering, analyzing and synthesizing salient data to be used for appropriately planning nursing care into multidimensional formulations that are capable of providing the basis for action decisions on medical administration. From the perspective of a holistic approach, it is well established that spiritual assessment is an action taken with the assumption that spiritual wishes have dedicated influences on all other factors of an individual’s life.... Below are discussions of two of these Spiritual Assessments Tools, and their effectiveness in terms of timing and use effectiveness (LaRocca-Pitts M., 2008). a) FICA FICA is a spiritual historical tool that was created by Dr. Christine Puchalski together with Daniel Sulmasy, Joan Teno and Dale Mathews in 1996 with the view of providing means through which clinicians could efficiently integrate the open-ended investigative questions checking into a standardized medical history and that which could be applied by health care professionals. This technique identifies key elements that a physician or clinician may be in need of to determine any patients’ spiritual belief in the medical settings. FICA, as a spiritual assessment tool, is based on four fundamental domains which are: the presence and recognitions of faith, belief, and their meaning to an individual; the importance of spirituality on one’s life and the immense influence that the belief system or values have on the individual’s spiritual community; and the timeless interventions to address such spiritual needs. FICA is mostly used because of its effectiveness and comprehensiveness in assessing varied spiritual dimensions as may be based on existing correlations with spiritual indicators; especially in the view of spiritual activities, alterations in spirituality, positive life changes, purpose, and hopefulness. It is able to offer provisional frameworks for clinicians to initiate discussions about those aspects deemed meaningful to patients, i.e. families, work, and faith. FICA provides information things that are supportive to patients, i.e. spiritual communities; and also gives information concerning spiritual beliefs that most likely affects health care decision

Peppercorn Dining Restaurant Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Peppercorn Dining Restaurant - Essay Example Entry is the initial step in the process of consulting and consists of first contact with a client before the formal contracting process has begun (Anderson 105).Contract is an agreement about the desired outcome for consultation, the work that will be done to accomplish the outcomes, the role each party will be play in completing the work, and the financial and other business terms of consulting relationship (Jones and Brazzel). Before a project begins contracting begins with meetings which are not restricted to one meeting but it is a continuous. The formal contract has two parts one is professional agreement regarding the time span of relationships, payments and consultation process steps. The other part is psychological and is not documented. The description of the situation by the manager of Peppercorn Drew to the consultants is the initial process of entry of consultants in the project. The eventual agreement between the manager Drew and the consultants to do some operational a udits is the process of entering the contract between the two parties. There has been a formal process of entry and contracting in the case of Peppercorn dining restaurant. 2. ... data collection: Interviews, surveys, information from focus groups etc., are used for the data collection Data collection: Use of appropriate protocols while using the gathering approach selected. Analysis and interpretation for the data collected: Drawing conclusions and defining the issues and needs to the client based upon data collected. Yes I am satisfied with the quality and quantity of data collected by the consultants of Square One Consulting. The data gathering methods used by the consultants are interviews, data collection from focus groups like managers at the restaurant, representatives from parent dining organization for the university, various student, full time and part time employees and observations. The most important step after data collection is announcing of the project which was done by one of the consultant Erica that the university would be constructing new dining facility and the manager Drew would be head of the new unit. The most important step after data collection is data analysis and interpretation 3. How will you analyze the data collected? How will you make sense of the situation at Peppercorn? The data has been collected through interviews, focus groups and observations. In the phase of data analysis the information is summarized so that they can be useful to make change in Peppercorn dining restaurant. The quantitative data collected are required for number crunching. The qualitative data are analyzed and summarized by the themes. From the data analysis the consultants must be able to picture the situation at Peppercorn Dining Restaurant. The consultants should keep in view of the following aspects during data analysis. They are: Investment required: The cost incurring must be acceptable by the client organization. The time

Mobile Computing and Social Networking Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words - 1

Mobile Computing and Social Networking - Essay Example regards the transmission of personal medical information over wireless networks, and assessing the use of social networking for group support for patients with similar medical concerns. Firstly, with regards to comparing and contrasting the monitoring of patient vital signs using mobile computing technology to inpatient visits, it can immediately be noted that a massive amount of time can be saved with regards to such a monitoring process. Due to the fact that only the data will need to be analyzed and the patient himself/herself is not present at the doctor’s office, it is possible for the doctor/doctors in question to analyze and keep track of a great many more patients than they might be able to otherwise. With employees shortages evidenced in nearly each and every healthcare sector, this is a positive aspect that could be furthered in the future. However, with regards to some of the negatives that such an approach could generate, it must be noted that the responsibility of measurement and/or sustainment of the device/devices in question used to report this information would ultimately be in the hands of the end patient. Whereas in the doctor’s office a team of medical support staff are able to ensure that proper measurements are being affected, quite a different situation entirely is evidenced with regards to a patient being responsible for utilizing equipment in the correct way. In effect, the veracity of the information and key environmental factors must be taken into account with regards to the inference which can be drawn from the date of which is perceived. Similarly, an analysis of the advantages and disadvantages of using mobile computing technology to monitor patients will herein be engaged. With regards to the advantages which could be realized, it is necessary to note that a massive level of cost savings could be generated by maximizing time that the medical professionals have to devote to each subset of data. Whereas it is important to have personal contact and a discussion of complicated factors with the patient in question, oftentimes this personal contact eats in to the time that the medical professionals have to analyze key healthcare data that could otherwise be leveraged to make a positive overall impact upon the health of the individual. However, the converse view of this particular situation is one in which an impersonal and removed relationship exists between the healthcare professionals and patients. Although it is no doubt beneficial to maximize healthcare professionals time and increase the veracity of the information and data which can be accrued regarding file signs and healthcare information, achieving this at the risk of creating such an impersonal relationship between doctor and patient is a risk that carries a great deal of negative repercussions. Anytime a technology is employed it is necessary to consider the means by which security concerns can impact upon the way in which a particular

Carbon Footprint Auditing and Management Assignment

Carbon Footprint Auditing and Management - Assignment Example According to the Intergovernmental panel on climate change (IPCC), over the next century the earth will experience an average increase of 3.0 to 11 degrees Fahrenheit. This revelation, alongside other credible projections, call for consolidated efforts in mitigating global warming and climate change, adopting necessary remedial measures, and coping strategies, especially for the poor societies (Mark, 2005:173). A recent estimation by the United Nations Environmental Programme (UNEP) indicates that households account a well over 30% of the carbon emissions in to the atmosphere every single day. It is against this background that putting measures in place to curb carbon emissions at the individual and house hold level is critical to all members of the society. Through the various energy usages in the house, the annual average carbon footprints stand at 5.89 tons of carbon. This is way above the national average of 4.46 tons per household. In simple terms, my operations at the house hav e resulted to the emission of these tones of carbon, into the atmosphere every year. With the recognition that carbon compounds, especially carbon oxides, are leading causes of the green house effect and the resultant global warming, this is an alarming rate of carbon emission, resulting from a single person. 1.2 Diagnostic Base-line Energy usage for the various activities in the house is the greatest carbon footprint source. Although the house uses electricity, which does not directly contribute to carbon emissions, it indirectly contributes to carbon emission. This occurs during the production of electricity at the power plant. The turbines that produce the electric power run on diesel generators, where as the distribution, step up and step down functions, are all depended on carbon producing fossil fuels. Therefore, any use of electric energy in the house contributes to carbon emissions in a significant direct and indirect manner (Charles, 2011: 45). After a careful analysis of t he processes and activities that dominate my carbon footprints, energy usage within the house is the leading activity, with conservation and efficiency measures lagging behind. In everyday, routine operation, revolving around cooking, ironing, electronics, and lighting have a profound effect on the amount of energy that the I spend in the house. Further, routine use of electric powered gadgets like the blower, the lawn mowers, and the washing machine also contribute to the high energy figures at the end of the month. This is made even higher by the heating of the house during the cold seasons, and the use of power to run the cooling systems during the hot weather days (Sarah, 2008: 39). Since all these energy-uses are pertinent, the focus turns to efficiency, conservation and green energy technologies, to contain the energy usages, and reduce carbon footprints. The first step will was to change the lighting system in my house, since all the bulbs in place utilize a lot of energy. Al so,

English - Answer questions from 3 Articles Article

English - Answer questions from 3 Articles - Article Example es how the onus must be on developed countries to take the lead in combating rampant over-consumption, because it is these countries that are over-consuming. Furthermore, these practices of overconsumption create problems in developing countries – climate change, for instance, has a global impact despite being caused almost entirely by developed countries. 2. The most significant impact the article â€Å"The Last Empire† by Jacques Leslie is the inherent idea that the current world order expects so-called â€Å"developing† countries to never truly develop, and if they did the quality of life in so-called â€Å"developed† countries would drop perceptibly – meaning that not only do industrialized nations have an incredible incentive to keep developing countries down, they can actually only afford their quality of life on the backs of developing countries. China is one of the few countries, along with Brazil and India, to truly have â€Å"developed† in the past thirty years – with its economy, and consumption, skyrocketing. This increased consumption has led to vast increases in commodity prices, as more and more food, for instance, had to be imported from abroad (Leslie). Now, if China’s economy improving alone could do that, imagine how drastic the increase in commodity prices, and thus decrease in standard of living, would be caused by the rest of the â€Å"developing† world improving. 3. The main point of â€Å"Rethinking the Meat Guzzler† by Mark Bittman is that the cost of raising meat for consumption is absurdly high, and is increasing at an exponential rate. But by far the most significant aspect of his argument is that the raising of livestock puts a great deal of pressure on grain and energy production, meaning in essence meat, and meat eaters are taking resources away from people who need them. According to Bittman, â€Å"nearly 30 percent of the earth’s ice-free land is directly or indirectly involved with livestock production† – and

Aviation Law Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Aviation Law - Essay Example Although, Carl was a registered pilot his flight rating were not satisfactory since he had no flown for 10 months (Henrietta, 2006). During his flight, Carl experienced problems just as he was about to land in his destination. Section 107 of the ANO specifies that an operator or pilot of an aircraft must specify the minimum requirements to be used in landing an aircraft. Carl was well aware through his flight plan that the aircraft was going to fly over a class D airspace and therefore he should have made Cumbernauld airport’s Air Traffic Controllers aware of his departure intentions (CAA, 2009). Moreover, section 107 of the ANO an aircraft should not descend from a height above 1000 meters to the relevant airport without clear vision of that airport. One of the important information that was ignored was the flying requirement for the plane used by Carl. Carl flew a plane that was fuel starved for its intended journey which was in contravention of the section 107 which require s minimum requirements to be followed. Betty, a part owner of the plane company in which Carl later flew contravened the ANO’s section 138, which states that a person must not recklessly or negligently an aircraft to endanger any property or person. Betty did not take any steps in ensuring that Carl was qualified to fly an airplane since she only relied on his word. As the operator of the company that owned the airplane she had the obligation of ensuring that air safety is maintained for her employees and clients. Moreover, Betty did not bother to check if Carl personal log book had good instrument rating since the law prohibits pilots from flying with poor... The paper tells that many commercial activities are controlled and monitored by the laws for the benefit or protection of different stakeholders. Moreover, several laws have been enacted to cater for special interests such as human rights, consumer protection and many other special interests. Air travel is nowadays a common form of transport in the world and this type of travel is suited for passengers travelling long distances or those in a hurry. The researchers have seen the case of Carl who was in a hurry and thus risked his life in an aircraft. Moreover, we looked at Dan who endangered his life and caused injuries to one of his passengers through his actions. The Air Navigation Order (ANO) or Rules of the Air (RotA) laws were enacted to protect air operators, travellers and employees who work in the airline industry. However, these laws are used only in the UK and thus in some situations it necessary to make use of laws and previous cases in handling out judgements. In the first case, we take a look at the case of Carl who ignored the rules and provisions of the ANO. While on the other hand the second case we take a look at a rookie helicopter pilot who blatantly ignores aviation laws. These two cases are different and explore how provisions of the ANO and RotA can be used in deciding and resolving aviation scenarios. For instance, in the first case Carl and Betty should be held liable for breaching the ANO laws while on the second case Dan is the culprit through negligence.

The Impact of Capital Structure on the Firms Performance Essay

The Impact of Capital Structure on the Firms Performance - Essay Example The authors of this paper are professors Murray Frank and Vidnan Goyal. Frank is one of the faculties of commerce in the University of British Columbia, Canada. While Goyal is in the department of finance in Hong Kong University of Science and Technology. They empirically tested 39 factors that affect leverage decisions of publicly traded companies in the U.S. One of the major findings is that the bankruptcy risk and profitability are negatively related to leverage. Their findings support tax-bankruptcy trade-off theory and stakeholder co-investment theory. On the other hand, it conflicts with the studies that are based on the pecking order theory and market timing theory. The authors are reliable and present good knowledge of the topic. Although theories are conflicting with some other research this is the good scholarly source. This source contributed more than enough in research work and target audience of the source is financial institutions, professionals, students, and stockhol ders. Bas, T., Muradoglu, G. & Phylaktis, K. (2009). Determinants of Capital Structure in Developing Countries. Retrieved March 15, 2011, from European Financial Management Association: http://efmaefm.org/0EFMSYMPOSIUM/China-2010/papers/determinants%20of%20capital%20structure%20in%20developing%20countries.pdf The authors of this paper are the faculty of Cass Business School in London. ... This paper is different than previous studies since it focuses on the large firms of developing countries. This paper contributed to research to some extent because it helped in understanding the fact that how different markets react differently. The audience of the paper is financial associations and foreign companies. This paper is included because it’s a scholarly and popular work and facts of the paper are well documented. Although my topic I too focused and this research is on a different topic this paper helped me to support my ideas. Titman, S., & Wessels, R. (1988). The Determinants of Capital Structure Choice. The Journal of Finance, 43 (1). The authors of this paper are professors at the University of California, Los Angeles. Both writers presented their research in a well-documented manner and this research is reliable and good to include when someone is working on the topic of capital structure. The study examined capital structure theories that have not tested bef ore based on a factor analytic technique. They analyzed the data using six measures of financial leverage including short-term debt, long-term debt, and convertible debt. The study findings show that the transaction cost is one of the major determinants of capital structure choice. In fact, the results do not support the effect of volatility, collateral value or future growth. This journal is very much related to my topic although it's too broad and not scholarly enough it helped a lot to narrow down my topic. The audience of the paper is students, teachers, and people who are seeking basic knowledge about the determinants of capital structure. Sbeiti, W. (2010).  

Desktop Migration Proposal Essay Example for Free

Desktop Migration Proposal Essay The purpose of this desktop migration proposal is to layout the proposed tasks and activities that are required to efficiently transition HACKM, LLC users from a Windows 7 computing environment to Windows 8. Currently, HACKM, LLC has 500 desktops/laptops that run Windows 7. The CEO of HACKM, LLC recognizes a need to implement HACKM employees to the latest Windows 8 technology. This proposal includes deployment schedules, resource estimates,  identification of special resources and staffing. This proposal also defines management controls and reporting procedures, as well as the risks and contingencies in this transition. Overview In upgrading to Windows 8, HACKM is seeking to reduce support costs while enhancing the user computing experience. HACKM would like to keep their systems current with the latest Windows technology by acquiring a top of the line laptop/tablet hybrid. The budget provided by HACKM is a maximum of $1,000,000 in which $700,000 has been set aside for the acquisition of the hardware needed to meet the requirements. The remaining $300,000 is allotted for contract support to execute the task. More details on the recommended product: 1. 10.6 widescreen with 1920 x 1080 resolution This high-resolution screen is ideal for word processing, Web browsing, research, reading and streaming HD video content. 2. Microsoft Windows 8.1 Pro operating system Full laptop capability in the size of a tablet. Run your existing desktop programs, download apps from the Windows Store and share files in the cloud for easy access anywhere you go. 3. 512GB internal storage capacity plus microSD slot Significant amount of storage space for software, apps, documents, photos, videos and more. Expand storage with a microSD card. 4. Dual-core processor Delivers responsive performance, smooth-streaming video and fast access to the Web and e-mail. 5. Supports the full Microsoft Office experience – Equipped with Microsoft Office Suite. 6. Powerful connectivity with USB 3.0 Share files, connect accessories and display content on the big screen with a full-size USB port. 7. Docking station (separate) Upgrade Benefits Migrating to Windows 8 will bring HACKM up to speed with the most current operating system. Windows 8 offers superior performance in comparison to Windows 7 and all other versions of Windows. Windows 8 offers improvements in performance, existing capabilities, and is relatively cheaper in costs. Windows 8 starts up more than twice as fast as Windows 7. Windows 8 gives PC users a whole new world of full-screen, touch-friendly, Web-connected apps to explore. Laptop/Tablet Hybrids Benefits 2-in-1s come with the advantages of both tablets and notebooks. Typically they’ll have the form factor of a tablet, allowing users to easily enjoy their favorite websites and apps with touch like they would on an iPad. They sometimes boast better battery life than a typical notebook. They provide mobility advantages for personnel that are regularly on-the-go. Objectives The objective of the task is to migrate all HACKM desktops to Windows 8 including all of the user’s files and folders with no data loss, with as much transparency to the user community as possible. Approach With any project, a well thought out and sound plan is necessary. Migration technicians will check the hardware compatibility list (HCL) to verify that the recommended hardware is compatible with the operating system. This includes visiting the vendors website and checking for operating system compatibility. For specialty applications technicians will obtain the latest drivers for all hardware. If necessary, 64-bit drivers will be obtained before installation to ensure that devices are compatible with 64-bit operating systems. Windows’ Upgrade Advisor will be utilized to determine whether any special modifications to system will be required for an upgrade.  Technicians will use Microsoft Assessment and Planning Toolkit (MAP) to automatically scan multiple computers and identify each computers compatibility for an upgrade to Windows 8. MAP checks hardware compatibility, identifies the availability of updated device drivers, and recommends a migration path to Windows 8. Other migration tasks that will be performed and documented include: Audit user community Conduct user interviews; verify user profiles, data location, answer any questions regarding migration. Audit all hardware and software to determine upgrade needs for compatibility with Windows 8 Identify total number of desktops, laptops and related hardware Examine current operating system configuration, user profiles Technicians will use Microsoft Windows Compatibility Center/Advisor to ensure current systems meet upgrade requirements. Identify project manager, project team, and stakeholders Define migration management team and points of contact Conduct weekly status meetings to discuss progress and milestones Examine risks for migrating to Windows 8 Data migration Technicians will utilize Microsoft’s Windows Easy Transfer utility to migrate user data. Windows Easy Transfer is a built-in migration tool to transfer files and settings from one computer to another. Software compatibility Group Policy Objects (GPO) will be migrated across the HACK domain forest with Advanced Group Policy Management (AGPM). Technicians will use Across Forest Migration to export the GPO and import it into the new Windows 8 production environment. After GPO migration, users will authenticate to the HACKM domain and therefore will not be required to use a Microsoft account with the new Windows 8 systems. Data Backup Restore Data protection is crucial for HACKM continuity after the migration. Technicians will: 1. Identify the critical data that needs to be archived 2. Archive this data to dedicated backup servers provided by HACKM 3. Review data for integrity and quality Technicians will backup: 1. Program data, software data, user folders and files including offline files identified during auditing and user interviews 2. Offline files will be copied to external USB hard drives (1TB). 3. Backups will be save for 90 days after migration Full backups will be run nightly with incremental backups weekly during the migration effort. Technicians will perform a full integrity and consistency check of data. Encryption Each tablet will be encrypted using Windows BitLocker Drive Encryption. BitLocker makes use of a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) to provide stronger data protection for the data on the device. BitLocker will allow our technicians to encrypt all HACKM data stored on the Windows operating system volume and configured data volumes, and by using the TPM, it can also help ensure the integrity of the information. Networking All of the new tablets will be equipped with docking stations that have built in gigabit Ethernet networking technology. For increased network security, the built-in wireless feature will only be made available on a case-by-case basis. Anti-Virus Protection Each tablet will be protected from various threats and vulnerabilities via Windows Defender. Windows Defender is antispyware software thats included with Windows and runs automatically when its turned on. Windows Defender offers two ways to help keep spyware from infecting your computer: 1. Real-time protection.†Ã¢â‚¬  Windows Defender alerts you when spyware attempts to install itself or to run on your computer. It also alerts you when programs attempt to change important Windows settings. 2. Scanning options. Windows Defender can be used to scan for spyware that might be installed on your computer, to schedule scans on a regular basis, and to automatically remove anything thats detected during a scan. Windows Defender works with Windows Update to automatically install new definitions as theyre released. Post Migration Technicians will perform the following tasks after migrating users to Windows 8: Update device drivers for unrecognized devices. During installation, drivers for many devices are installed from drivers on the installation disc. Technicians will use Device Manager to verify the status of all hardware devices, and download and install drivers for any unknown devices. Configure Windows Update and download the latest updates. Configure security software; configure the Windows Firewall and install anti-virus software. Technicians will make sure to update anti-virus definition files. Migrate user configuration settings and data using the following methods: For local files not backed-up to the network, technicians will use Windows Easy Transfer to transfer files from the old computer to the new computer. For all other user data technicians will use the User State Migration Tool (USMT): ScanState will be used on the existing computer to save user settings and files. LoadState will be used on the new computer to move files onto the new computer. Install applications and add other Windows features. Configure system backups and other protection methods. Take a complete PC backup and schedule regular user data backups. Roles Responsibilities Project Manager: Responsible for managing high performance, interdisciplinary  team to meet project milestones and achieving measurable performance outcomes. Project manager will manage and communicate task progress and milestones. Lead Migration Administrator: Responsible for leading the desktop migration effort. This includes analysis of the existing Windows 7 systems and development of the plan and approach and migration of data to the new the new Windows 8 systems. Migration Technician: Responsible for user interviews, surveys, data back-up, operating system installation and data migration. Technician will document any issues for escalation and lessons learned. Technician will regularly communicate with Lead Migration Administrator and Project Managers. Works Cited Abbass, H. (2012, November 15). How to Transfer your files to a Windows 8 Computer. Retrieved from Darktips.com: http://darktips.com/transfer-files-to-windows-8/ BestBuy.com. (2014, December). Microsoft Surface Pro 2 512GB. Retrieved from BestBuy.com: http://www.bestbuy.com/site/microsoft-surface-pro-2-512gb-dark-titanium/2147061.p?id=1219070148385skuId=2147061 Bestbuy.com. (2014, December). Microsoft Surface Pro 3 Docking Station. Retrieved from Bestbuy.com: http://www.bestbuy.com/site/microsoft-surface-pro-3-docking-station/7524004.p?id=1219276472271skuId=7524004 Microsoft.com. (2010, May). BitLocker Drive Encryption. Retrieved from Microsoft Technet: http://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/library/cc731549%28ws.10%29.aspx Microsoft.com. (2014, December). sing Windows Defender. Retrieved from Microsoft.com: http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/using-defender#1TC=windows-7 Muchmore, M. (2013, June 24). 5 Reasons You Should Upgrade to Windows 8. Retrieved from PCMag.com: http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2411451,00.asp

Minimum Wage Essay Example for Free

Minimum Wage Essay American workers will have a 1.75$ increase in their hourly wage by the end of 2015, as President Barack Obama recently called to raise the federal minimum wage from $7.25 an hour $9.00 an hour. This increase in the minimum wage of American citizen aims to help people with a low annual wage: cooks, employees of the janitorial industry and many others working these necessary menial occupations are set to benefit. The white house estimates that this measure will boost the wage of approximately 15 millions low-income workers. Raising the minimum wage, according to the White House press, will have some positive effect for low-income families; however, many companies are opposed to raising the minimum wage. A higher wage will have a direct impact on the cost of business. Some economists argue that higher minimum wage will result in an increased unemployment percentage. Although minimum wage laws can fix hourly pay, they cannot guarantee jobs. Employers are not willing to pay a worker more than the value of the additional product that he produces. For example, if a worker produces 4$ worth of goods per hour and because of the minimum wage he has to be paid 5.15$. Since he cost more than what he produces it makes it hard for him to find a job. At one point in the article, the President said that one of the best ways to get the economy going again is to put money in the pockets of people who work. (Lowrey)It is true that families with low income will earn more money: it is projected that a family that is earning $20,000 to $30,000 a year will see an additional $3,500 in their income. (Lowrey) This general positive outcome of increasing the minimum wage has led many law makers to wrongly assume that increasing the minimum wage is an effective way to fight  poverty. From the point of view of an economist, raising the minimum wage may increases the probability that a poor family will escape poverty through higher wages, but it does increase the probability of another family with average income will become poor as a result of minimum wage giving rise to inflation. It also decreases the proportion of families with income near the poverty line, suggesting that it more will be more difficult to escape poverty. We all know that if the minimum wage increases then the cost of living will inevitably increase as well as a result of inflation. Economists are against minimum wage laws because they create a price floor. In this case, a price floor is not the price that products can be sold for, but what price employers can spend on their employees. For non-economists, legislating a minimum wage is commonly seen as an effective way of giving raises to low-wage workers. Unfortunately it, like any other price floor, creates a surplus. In this case, the surplus is a larger than expected number of workers more of are willing to work in minimum-wage jobs than there are employers willing to hire at that wage. Economists think that there should not be any policies concerning wages: an employee should be paid what the employer thinks he/she deserves. Minimum wage increases make unskilled workers more expensive and therefore undesirable relative to all other factors of production. (Mankiw) For example, if skilled workers make 15$/hour and unskilled workers make three dollars an hour, skilled workers are five times as expensive as the unskilled. Imposing a minimum wage of five dollars an hour makes skilled workers relatively more attractive by making them only three times as expensive as unskilled workers. Another important characteristic of the policy to increase minimum wage that was not discussing in the article is that it may also negatively impact workers by changing how they are compensated. Benefits such as paid vacation, free room and board; inexpensive insurance and subsidized childcare are an important part of the total compensation for many low wageworkers. (Mankiw) When minimum wages rise, employers can control total compensation costs by cutting benefits; such is the case for the United States today. The employer always had to follow the minimum wage in order to pay their employee. The minimum wage should not be existent nowadays; the employer should have the choice to pay their employee based on their knowledge. An employee that knows more and produces more should have an higher hourly range. Sources: Textbook Mankiw, N. Gregory. Principles of Economics. 6th. Mason, OH, USA: 2012. Print. Website: Lowrey, Annie. Raising Minimum Wage Would Ease Income Gap but Carries Political Risks. New York Times. N.p., 13-02-2013. Web. 5 Oct 2013. .

Entrepreneurship for Small Businesses

Entrepreneurship for Small Businesses Entrepreneurship creates a new field of business, despite risks and uncertainty. To achieve profit and growth, a business must identify crucial opportunities and assemble the necessary resources to capitalize on them. Most forms of entrepreneurship are small scale businesses which begin targeting a specific class of customers. Entrepreneurship business has a bright vision according to the report by many studies. Starting business might be an opportunity for people who have been the unemployed, caused by economic recession. There are two important factors to keep creativity which is the ability to develop new ideas and to discover new ways of looking at problems and opportunities. Next innovation is the ability to apply creative solutions to problems and opportunities while enhancing or enriching peoples lives. Furthermore, the three steps to implement creativity and innovation are developing a strategic plan for a business using the nine steps in the strategic planning process, and building a marketing plan, pricing strategies, financial plan, and cash flow management. These will be necessary for a small business to be successful as well as a harmony with considering the opposite side opinions. Background of Current Economic Situation The condition of global economy is in the recession and that is evidence through various economic figures like the GDP, the rate of unemployment, crisis of subprime mortgage which is a huge economic crisis to intimidate the base of economy system caused by deficit of real estate by overestimation (Oshinsky, J., Fleishman, B., Murray, J., Fields, J., 2007). Aggregate supply which is a total amount of producing by companies in a country, and aggregate demand which is a total amount of consuming by customers in a country are getting to decrease (Vogel Jr., J., 2007). Especially unemployment rate influences the real living quality of people. The more the unemployment rate increases, the worse the quality of peoples living is. Moreover, the social instability is caused by the high rate of unemployment (Barrell, R. Holland, D., 2008). Considering Entrepreneurship as a Solution In this situation, the establishment of a small business and entrepreneurship is one of the solutions to decrease financial crisis such as a high rate of unemployment and deduction of the GDP. This will provide not only the opportunity to recover the loss of many unemployed workers and the GDP, but also create many jobs and products caused by new entry of small businesses. Furthermore, there are many other reasons to support entrepreneurship as a good alternative to solve the recession (Patterson, S., 1993). Common people still regard establishing a business as a risky challenge that could lead to big failure. It is usual that one who does not have confidence in his or her success might avoid establishing his or her own business. But, if there is a unique idea to be applied in a new business, and it is certain that a competitive business strategy plan and solid management could be settled based on thorough analysis regarding the new market, the result of small business would not be risky, and could make an amazing profit. Of course, maintaining a study for corresponding customers feedback and avoiding any potential drawbacks is an essential requirement for the success of small business (Carmona, J., 2008). The Positive Aspects of Entrepreneurship First of all, there are reasons why the entrepreneurship will be appropriate for recovering and restarting a career in the period of recent recession in two points of view. In a viewpoint of the individual entrepreneur, the entrepreneurship will be a chance to create your own destiny after resigning from your former profession. Owning a business provides entrepreneurs the independence and the opportunity to make their desire a reality. It is certain that the result of managing businesses should be required to their responsibilities if their businesses are successful or not. The small business will be an opportunity to make a difference because they see a chance to make a difference in a cause that is important to them. The entrepreneurs are always looking for ways to combine their concerns for social issues and their desires to earn a good living. Moreover, the entrepreneurs businesses become their instrument for self-expression and self-actualization. Their businesses are exciting and challenging for them. The entrepreneurs usually enjoy their businesses as their hobbies, not a work. Their success of businesses depends on their ability regarding how much they are creative, enthusiastic, and vision will be imposed from their potential capacity (Klein, K., 2008). Besides, the entrepreneurship will be a good opportunity to earn impressive profits. Many of them do become wealthy. For example, nearly 75 percent of those on the Forbes list of the 400 richest Americans are first generation entrepreneurs. According to research by Thomas Stanley and William Danko, self-employed business owners make up two thirds of American millionaires. Furthermore, small business owners are generally among the most respected and most trusted members of their communities. Business deals based on trust and mutual respect are the guarantees of many established small companies. These owners are proud of the trust and recognition they receive from the customers they have served faithfully over the years. A study by the National Federation of Independent Businesses found that seventy eight percent of Americans believe that small businesses exerts a positive influence on the countrys direction, a ranking exceeded only by science and technology (Zimmerer T. W. Scarborough N. M., 2008). Most advantage of the entrepreneurship is that owners of small businesses can make their hobbies their work, and they can enjoy their work with great interest and fun. Even though their business is not successful, they can satisfy just their working process because they have a business they enjoy and love (Shah, A., 2007). In a viewpoint of the contribution to society of the entrepreneurship, not only small companies lead the way in creating jobs, but they also take the brunt of training workers for them. One study by the Small Business Administration concluded that small businesses are the leaders in offering training and advancement opportunities to workers. Small companies offer more general skill instruction and training than larger ones, and their employees receive more benefits from the training than do those in larger firms. Even though their training programs tend to be informal, in-house, and on–the–job, small companies teach employees valuable skills, from written communication to computer literacy. Small businesses also produce fifty one percent of the countrys private GDP (Gross Domestic Product) and account for forty seven percent of business sales. In fact, the US small business sector is the worlds third largest economy, trailing only the entire US economy and China. Small companies also are incubators of new ideas, products, and services. Small firms actually create thirteen to fourteen times more innovations per research employee than large companies. Traditionally small businesses have played a role in innovation and they continue to do so today. Many important inventions trace their roots to an entrepreneur, including the zipper, FM radio, the laser, air conditioning, the escalator, the light bulb, the personal computer, and the automatic transmission (Stottlemyer, T., 2008). Likewise, the entrepreneurship business has a positive vision based on above facts. If the entrepreneurs want to make their business successful, they need a good plan to differentiate their business from other businesses. Thus, creativity about their business should be represented as one of the main factors of success. Creativity is not only an important source for building a competitive advantage, but it also is a necessity especially for survival of small business. Small businesses relatively have disadvantages for the high cost to produce goods and services, and narrow selling channels compared with big companies. Therefore, creativity is a very important part to motivate the company, making it more competitive in the market. Creative ideas would not be easy to be caught, thus should be found after the creative process which involves seven steps (Spence, R., 2006). Preparing for Entrepreneurship The first step is the preparation that includes a formal education, on the job training, work experience, and taking advantage of other learning opportunities. These ways can provide a foundation on which to build creativity and innovation. For instance, the adaptation of attitudes of a lifelong student will assist owners of small businesses to establish and manage their businesses. Every situation you meet will be an opportunity to learn about the business. Reading many writings even if it is not in your field of profession, will be a source of creativity and innovation which are frequently originated from blended ideas and concepts in various fields of different expertise. In addition, gathering articles related to your small business should be the great guide book to bring the information from which to draw ideas and inspirations. Furthermore, joining professional and trade associations and attending their meetings will be a chance to brainstorm with others who have similar interests. You can learn how others solved specific problems, which will give you new insight to solve your problems of business. Besides, there are practical plans to prepare for creativity like investing time in studying other countries and their cultures. This offers incredible business opportunities for entrepreneurs with necessary knowledge and experience by your global experiences. The second step is the investigation which requires one to develop a solid understanding of the problem, situation, or decision. To create new ideas and concepts in a particular field, an individual must first study the problem and understand its basic components. Creative thinking comes about when people make careful observations of the world around them and then investigate the way things work (Zimmerer T. W. Scarborough N. M., 2008). The third step is the transformation which involves viewing the similarities and the differences among the information collected. This phase requires two types of thinking: convergent and divergent. Convergent thinking is the ability to see the similarities and the connections among various and often diverse data and events. Divergent thinking is the ability to see the differences among various data and events (Zimmerer T. W. Scarborough N. M., 2008). The fourth step is the incubation which is concerned about the time of subconscious needs to reflect on the information collected. To an observer, this phase of the creative process would be quite boring; it looks as though nothing is happening. In fact, during this phase, it may appear that the creative person is loafing. Incubation occurs while the individual is away from the problem, often engaging in some totally unrelated activity. Working on the problem or opportunity in a different environment helps stimulate your creativity (Zimmerer T. W. Scarborough N. M., 2008). The fifth step is the illumination which occurs at some point during the incubation stage when a spontaneous breakthrough causes â€Å"the light bulb to go on.† In the illumination stage, all of the previous stages come together to produce the â€Å"Eureka factor†- the creation of the innovate idea. In one study of two hundred scientists, eighty percent said that at least once a solution to a problem had â€Å"just popped into their heads†- usually when they were away from the problems (Zimmerer T. W. Scarborough N. M., 2008). The sixth step is the verification. For entrepreneurs, proving an idea as accurate and useful may include conducting experiments, running simulations, test marketing a product or service, establishing small scale pilot programs, building prototypes, and engaging in many other activities designed to verify that the new idea will work and is practical to implement. The goal is to subject the innovative idea to the test of cold and hard reality (Zimmerer T. W. Scarborough N. M., 2008). The seventh step is the implementation. The main purpose of this step is to transform the idea into reality. Many people come up with creative ideas in order to promise new products or services, but most never take them beyond the idea stage. What sets entrepreneurs apart is that they act in their ideas. An entrepreneurs final goal is to make their innovative ideas in the reality successfully (Zimmerer T. W. Scarborough N. M., 2008). Designing a Competitive Business Model After establishing creative ideas which are differentiated from other competitors, entrepreneur needs to design a competitive business model. Obviously the number of strategies from which the small business owner can choose is enormous. But, there are three basic strategies remain permanently. First one is cost leadership. A company pursuing a cost leadership strategy strives to be the lowest cost producer relative to its competitors in the industry. Low cost leaders have a competitive advantage in reaching buyers whose main purchase criterion is price. They have the power to set the industrys price floor. This strategy works well when buyers are sensitive to price changes, when competing firms sell the same products and compete on the basis of the price , and when companies can benefit from economies of scale. Not only is a low cost leader in the best position to define itself in a price war, but it also can use its power to attack competitors with the lowest price in the market. Next is the differentiation. A company following a differentiation strategy seeks to build customer loyalty by positioning its goods and services in a unique or different fashion. That enables the business to command higher price for its products or services than competitors. The key of differentiation is to be special at something that is important to the customers. In other word, a business strives to be better than its competitors at something customers value. Last one is the focus strategy which recognizes that not all markets are homogeneous. In fact, there are many different customer segments, each having different needs, wants, and characteristics. The principal idea of the focus strategy is to select one or more market segments, identify customers special needs, wants, and interests, and approach them with a good or service designed to excel in meeting these needs, wants, and interests. Focus strategies build on the differences among market segments. Fro instance, most markets contains a population of customers who are willing and able to pay for the premium goods and services, giving small companies the opportunity to follow a focus strategy aimed at the premium segment of the market. Strategic Management Entrepreneur should plan the strategic management process. Generally small companies that lack clear strategies may achieve some success in the short run, but as soon as competitive conditions stiffen or an unanticipated threat arises, they usually â€Å"hit the wall† and fold. Without a basis for differentiating itself from a pack of similar competitors, the best a company can hope for is mediocrity in the marketplace. In todays intensely competitive global environment, entrepreneurs who are not thinking and acting strategically are putting their businesses at risk. Strategic management is the mechanism for operating successfully in a chaotic competitive environment. The goal of developing a strategic plan is to create for the small company a competitive advantage which is the aggregation of factors that sets the small business apart from its competitors and gives it a unique position in the market. Every small firm must establish a plan for creating a unique image in the minds of its potential customers. A company builds a competitive edge on its core competencies, which are a unique set of capabilities that a company develops in key operational areas, such as quality, service, innovation, team building, flexibility, responsibilities, and others, that allow it to get over past competitors. They are what the company does best and are the focal point of the strategy. This step must identify target market segments and determine how to position the firm in those markets. Entrepreneurs must identify some way to differentiate their companies from competitors. The initiate step of developing a strategic plan is that developing a clear vision and translating it into a meaningful mission statement. Highly successful entrepreneurs are able to communicate their vision to those around them. The firms mission statement answers the first question as what business am I in? The mission statement sets the tone for the entire company. The second step is assessing the companys strengths and weaknesses. Strengths are positive internal factors; weaknesses are negative internal factors. The third step is scanning the environment for significant opportunities and threats facing the business. Opportunities are positive external options; threats are negative external forces. The fourth step is identifying the key factors for success in the business. In every business, key factors that determine the success of the firms in it, and so they must be an integral part of a companys strategy. Key success factors are relationships between a controllable variable and a critical factor influencing the firms ability to compete in the market. The fifth step is that analyzing the competition. Business owners should know their competitors business almost as well as they know their own business. A competitive profile matrix is a helpful tool for analyzing competitors strengths and weaknesses (Shah, A., 2007). The sixth step is to create company goals and objectives. Goals are the broad, long-range attributes that the firm seeks to accomplish. Objectives are quantifiable and more precise; they should be specific, measurable, assignable, realistic, timely, and written down. The process works best when managers and employees are actively involved. The seventh step is to formulate strategic options and select the appropriate strategies. A strategy is the game plan the firm plans to use to achieve its objectives and mission. It must center on establishing for the firm the key success factors identified earlier. The eighth step to translate strategic plans into action plans. No strategic plan is complete until the owner puts it into action. The last step is to establish accurate controls. Actual performance rarely matches plans exactly. Operating data from the business assembled into a comprehensive scorecard serve as an important guidepost for determining how effective a companys strategy is. This information is especially helpful when plotting future strategies (Shah, A., 2007). Marketing Strategy After that, building a marketing plan is necessary for entrepreneurs to act their managing strategies in reality, which is the process of creating and delivering to customers including all of activities related to winning and retaining loyal customers. Thus, marketing plan focus on the companys target customers and how to satisfy their needs and wants. Solid marketing plan should determine customer needs and wants through market research, and pinpoint the specific target markets the company will serve. Furthermore, after analyzing the firms competitive advantages and building a marketing strategy, entrepreneurs should create a marketing mix for their customers (Spence, R., 2006). Entrepreneurs should understand where in their customers product life cycle lately. They also focus on choosing the appropriate channel and place of distribution and using it efficiently. Setting the right price for their products or services is pretty hard because this work need to utilize the statistic data and catch the emotion of customers regarding their products. At the end of marketing strategy, owners of small businesses should develop a promotion for their products including advertising, personal selling, creating events, and guerilla marketing that is a kind of marketing promotions focused on emphasizing unique comparative advantages relative to other competitors (Spence, R., 2006). Opposite Side Opinion People who have opposite opinions against entrepreneurship point out ten potential risks. First is management mistake that is the primary cause of business failure. Sometimes the owner of a small business lacks the leadership ability, sound judgment, and knowledge necessary to make the business work. Second is lack of business experience which indicates that most entrepreneurs tend to be beginners to be easy to make management mistakes in their own businesses. Third one is poor financial control. Effective managers realize that any successful business venture requires proper financial control. Business success also requires having a sufficient amount of capital on hand at start-up. Undercapitalization is a common cause of business failure because companies run out of capital before they are able to generate positive cash flow. Entrepreneurs tend to be overly optimistic and often misjudge the financial requirements of going into business (US Recession Would Hurt, 2008). Fourth one is weak marketing efforts that means entrepreneurs tend to misunderstand the marketing efforts. For example, owners of small businesses usually believe their businesses will make a great number of customers automatically, but it almost never happens in reality. Building a growing base of customers requires a sustained and creative marketing effort. Keeping customers coming back requires providing customers with value, quality, convenience, service, and fun. Fifth thing is failure to develop a strategic plan. Many small business managers ignore the process of strategic planning because they think that is something that benefits only large companies. Without a good defined strategy, a business has no sustainable basis for creating and maintaining a competitive edge in the marketplace. Establishing a strategic plan drives entrepreneurs to assess realistically a proposed businesss potential. Sixth thing is uncontrolled growth. Business growth is a natural, healthy, and desirable part of any business, but it must be planned and controlled. As the business increases in size and complexity, problems increase in magnitude, and the entrepreneur must learn to deal with them. Seventh thing is poor location. Business location are often selected without proper study, investigation, and planning. Some beginning owners select a particular location just because they found a vacant building. The sales business should be influenced heavily by choice of location. Eighth is improper inventory control. Insufficient inventory control results in shortages and stockouts, causing customers to become disillusioned and leave. More common situation is that the manager has not only too much inventory, but also too much of wrong type of inventory (Zimmerer T. W. Scarborough N. M., 2008). Ninth is incorrect pricing. Small business owners usually underprice their products and services for making strong competition. Establishing accurate prices is to know what a product or service costs to make or to provide. Then, business owners can establish prices that reflect the image they want to make for their companies with an observation on the competition. Tenth is inability to make the Entrepreneurial Transition. After the start up, growth usually requires a radically different style of management, one that entrepreneurs are not necessarily good at. Growth requires entrepreneurs to delegate authority and to relinquish hands-on control of daily operations, something many entrepreneurs simply can not do (Zimmerer T. W. Scarborough N. M., 2008). Suggestions for solving opposite side Entrepreneurs must know their business field in depth. Small business owners should get the best education in their business area before they set out on their own business. Small business managers have to become serious students of their industry to analyze and examine their industry for their success. Reading trade journals, business periodicals, books, and research reports related to their industry, which can guide entrepreneurs to the success. Moreover, personal contact with suppliers, customers, trade associations in the same industry is another excellent way to get that knowledge. Small business owners should develop a solid business plan that is a crucial ingredient in preparing for business success. Well written and planned business plan not only provide a pathway to success, but it also creates a benchmark against which an entrepreneur can measure actual company performance. This planning process drives entrepreneurs to ask and answer some difficult, challenging, and crucial questions. Managing financial resources is also essential part for entrepreneurs to run their business successfully. The best defense against financial problems is to develop a practical information system and then use this information to make business decisions. The first step in managing financial resources effectively is to have adequate start up capital. Estimating initial capital as much double as entrepreneurs expect will be good for starting a business because many costs that entrepreneurs do not expect will come out at the beginning time. The most valuable financial resource is cash. Even though earning a profit is essential to its long term survival, a business must have an appropriate supply of cash to pay its bills and obligations. Managing cash is one of entrepreneurs primary abilities to maintain their business. Owners in small businesses have to understand financial statements what is going on in the business. These financial statements are reliable indicators of small businesses health. They can be helpful in realizing potential problems like declining sales, slipping profits, rising debt, and deteriorating working capital that are symptoms of potentially critical problems which require immediate attention. No matter what kind of business entrepreneurs launch, entrepreneurs must learn to manage people. Every business depends on the foundation of well trained, motivated employees. Business owner can not do everything alone. In the end, most dominant sustainable resource is the good quality of the people entrepreneurs have. Starting business is like running a marathon. If entrepreneurs are not physically and mentally prepared, entrepreneurs had better do something different. The success of business depends on entrepreneurs constant presence and attention. It is critical to monitor a business condition constantly. Also successful entrepreneurs recognize that their most valuable asset of their time, and they learn to manage it effectively to make themselves and their companies more productive. Conclusion Entrepreneurship is not ultimate solution for solving recession, but it can be one of primary alternatives to help people come out of economic recession. Although there are risks to start a business, entrepreneurship have many advantages to be valuable for challenging new industry. For instance, good opportunity to earn impressive profits, making hobbies main work, and the contribution to society is representative advantages of entrepreneurship. Therefore, considering the opposite opinions, building solid managing strategy and marketing plan, maintaining a study for corresponding customers feedback must make entrepreneurship successfully.

Edgar Allan Poe Essay -- essays research papers

Edgar Allan Poe Ralph Waldo Emerson called him the jingle man, Mark Twain said that his prose was unreadable, and Henry James felt that a taste for his work was the mark of a second-rate sensibility. According to T. S. Eliot, "the forms which his lively curiosity takes are those in which a preadolescent mentality delights." After notices like those, most reputations would be sunk without a trace, and yet Edgar Allan Poe shows no sign whatsoever of loosening his extraordinary hold on our imaginations. In 1959, Richard Wilbur, an elegant poet and a critic of refined taste, inaugurated the Dell Laurel Poetry Series (mass-market paperback selections from classic British and American poets) with an edition of Poe's complete poems, for which he provided a long and thoughtful introduction. In 1973, Daniel Hoffman, also a distinguished poet and critic, published a highly regarded study of Poe's writings. In 1984, two massive volumes of Poe's collected works, together comprising some three tho usand pages, were published in the Library of America. In the 1990s, Poe has been the subject of a children's book and a substantial new biography, and a Halloween episode of the Baltimore-based television series Homicide: Life on the Street made very effective use of his legend and his writings, especially the poem "Dream-Land" and the stories "The Tell-Tale Heart" and "The Cask of Amontillado." A century and a half after his death, he is the one American author whose name is known to virtually everyone. Edgar Poe was born in Boston, Massachusetts, on January 19, 1809, the second of the three children of David Poe and Elizabeth (Arnold) Poe, both of whom were professional actors and members of a touring theatrical company. Eclipsed by his more famous wife, his own promising career ruined by alcoholism, Poe's father deserted the family when Edgar was still an infant; nothing conclusive is known of his life thereafter. While appearing professionally in Richmond, Virginia, Poe's mother became ill and died on December 8, 1811, at the age of twenty-four. Her three children, who would maintain contact with one another throughout their lives, were sent to live with different foster families. Edgar became the ward of John Allan, a successful tobacco merchant in Richmond, and his wife ... ... eye as the cause of unexplainable illnesses and misfortunes of any kind. To protect oneself from the power of the eye, certain measures can be taken. In Muslim areas, the color blue is painted on the shutters of the houses, and found on beads worn by both children and animals. There is also a specific hand gesture named the "Hand of Fatima," named after the daughter of Mohammed. This name is also given to an amulet in the shape of hand that is worn around the neck for protection. In some locations, certain phrases, such as " as God will" or "God bless it" are uttered to protect the individual from harm. In extreme cases, the eye, whether voluntarily or not, must be destroyed. One Slavic folktale relates the story of the father who blinded himself for fear of harming his own children with his evil eye. Would Poe have had knowledge of this rather strange belief? It is altogether possible that he would have, which creates another interesting twist to this story. Maybe the narrator who tries to convince us that madness is not really the issue, is telling the truth. Maybe this vile act is necessary in order to destroy the power of the old man's evil eye!

Chocolate Chip Cookie report :: essays research papers

To be, or Not to Be the Best   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Chocolate Chip Cookie  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚     Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚     Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The delicious smell of chocolate chip cookies is known to everyone across the nation. Americans thrive on deserts and chocolate chip cookies happen to be one of the many favorites. As there are many different types of deserts, there are also many different brands of chocolate chip cookies. Most Americans have their own preferences about which chocolate chip cookie they consider the best. I made it my goal to go out an find the best chocolate chip cookie by surveying people and testing three popular brands of cookies for flavor, chewiness, and appearance.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The three chocolate chip cookie brands tested were Chips Ahoy!, Keebler’s Original Soft Batch, and Cub Foods brand. The three brands were rated on a scale from one to three (three being the best, one the worst) on their flavor, chewiness, and appearance. To score a three on flavor the cookie had to taste delicious and melt in your mouth like ice cream outside on a hot summer day. To score a three on chewiness, it had to be very soft like dough and take a long time to finish. Finally, to rate a three on appearance the cookie had to be very appealing to the taste tester and look delicious to eat. The brand of cookies that scored the highest in each category, I crowned the best chocolate chip cookie in America.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  As everyone knows in order to be the best cookie, the cookie has to have amazing flavor. I asked my family members to volunteer and taste test each brand of cookies and rate them on a scale from one to three for their flavor. My family members ate each cookie and checked off which brand they preferred. The results show the brand of cookie with the best flavor was Keebler’s Original Soft Batch. Taste testers enjoyed the rich and smooth chocolate in the cookie. The cookie with the second best flavor was Chips Ahoy! brand cookies. Taste testers liked this cookies similarity to cookie dough, but did not enjoy the flavor as much as Keebler’s Original Soft Batch. The cookie with the worst flavor was the Cub Foods brand cookies because their taste was fake and stale. After looking at these results I found Americans prefer the flavor of Keebler’s Original Soft Batch cookies to have the best taste.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Another key ingredient in the best cookie has to be the chewiness.

The Pros and Cons of Illegal Immigration into the United States Essay e

The Pros and Cons of Illegal Immigration into the United States Illegal immigration has been an important and serious issue for decades; which affects everyone, both Americans and immigrants themselves. Illegal Immigration has three main purposes: first to find a better life in the ?promise land?, second: free healthcare, and third: for criminal activity. Most illegal immigrants come to America with the best intentions for themselves and/or their families, but many others have alternative motives. The thing that must be remembered is that illegal immigration is illegal. It?s all in the name. ?Over 6 million illegal immigrants live in the US- some estimate even more.? (Illegal Immigration) This is astonishing. Six million people could make up a whole suburb such as Mesa or Chandler. Immigrants arrive in America in different ways. One is crossing the border illegally by land. Another way get into the US are by false identities or by stolen, or falsified passports. Another way is by illegal smuggling boats. ?Others enter with legal documentation and then violate the terms on which they have been admitted by taking jobs that are not authorized or overstaying the authorized period of stay in the country? (Illegal Immigration) A bad side to having such a large amount of illegal immigrants in the nation is the crime rate and prison population caused by certain ?illegals?. ?Illegal immigration is a major cause in the overcrowding of our schools and our prisons.? (Bender, David) Michael Huffington, a former member of the US House of Reps. For California says that, ?Many illegal immigrants come for two purposes that are both destructive and expensive: to commit crimes or to receive government benefits.... ...ed by those individuals will hopefully decrease. And perhaps by instituting other policies which help the people who want a better life; and are willing to take the steps to becoming a citizen, will make America not so much of a hide out, but the land of opportunity that is once was less than a century and a half ago. Works Cited Bender, David, Bruno Leone, Charles P. Cozic. Illegal Immigration, Opposing Viewpoints. California: San Diego, 1997. Huffington, Michael. Illegal Aliens, The Immigration Experience. Pennsylvania: Philadelphia, 1997. ?Illegal Immigration is a Crime.? Issue Brief. http/:www.fairus.org/html/04113604.htm. 6 April 2001. Izumi, Lance T. ?Illegal Immigration and Crime.? Capital Ideas: Intellectual Capital from the Political Capitol. 2 September 1997. http/:www.padificresearch.org/capital/97-9-02.html. 7 April 2001.

Shark Tank Paper

Shark Tank is an American reality show produced by Mark Burnett. The show is about aspiring entrepreneurs bringing their business plan up in front of a panel of potential investors to see if they can sell their product to them and get the total investment amount needed. Today the first entrepreneur was Sarah Schulz the founder of Schulzies bread pudding. She was seeking an investment of $160,000 for a twenty percent equity stake in Shulzies. All the investors were able to try a variety of bread pudding which turned out to be a delicious surprise.The only thing lacking in Sarah's business was a stable yet sturdy business plan. The investors definitely wanted to help her, but the risk was far too high. As we all know, to have a successful business you have to have a successful business plan or you will crumble. The second entrepreneur was James Ambler who is the owner of Paparazzi Proposals. They go around capturing the perfect moment of a marriage proposal. He was seeking a $250,000 i nvestment for twenty percent equity in his company. He explained to the panel that he wants to expand his business to cities other than Just New York.The investors gave him helpful advice on how to go about the expansion nd all recommended to first saturate his current market, New York City, and then go on to other destinations. Three of the â€Å"sharks† simply told him they dont see the need for that amount of money because the company isn't worth that much. Laurie was very interested but was wanting a bigger piece of the pie, because she felt like she could show him how to move the business into extreme success. Out of the last three investors, they all decided to give him a portion of what he was asking with thirty three percent of the business.Lori and Kevin decided to partner giving him 50,000 for thirty three percent and loaning the rest when he needed it. Robert started off on the fence and gave him the offer of $100,000 with thirty three percent and also loaning the rest when he needed it. He made an offer asking Robert to let Lori partner and Robert immediately was out. So he was left with the only offer standing and that was with Kevin and Lori. He told them if they would go down to thirty percent they would have a deal. The partners agreed and James left the room with investors for his company.The next entrepreneurs who entered in front of the panel had a new way to communicate with a child before it is even born. Curtis and Matt are the founders of Belly Buds who are seeking an investment of $500,000 in exchange for twelve and a half percent of their company. Basically their product makes playing music to the baby much easier by using a baby bump sound system that adheres to the woman's stomach. This allows her to play music and/or voices through her stomach to the baby in the womb anytime, anywhere. The investors first wanted to know if the product was patented.The partners said they have had a patent pending for three years, and Lori went on to say that they were probably not going to get it then. Mark aid that he had a similar product when his children were in the womb it Just didn't adhere to the stomach, which is probably why the patent is pending. Most of the investors described how the price they are asking, based on their sales, was Just too high of an amount for them to risk investing. The other two said that the product Just wasnt unique enough an they didn't see the potential to make money.The final entrepreneur that entered was a man from California with an innovative new cosmetic line. Abe Geary the founder of Pet Paint, colored hairspray for your dog, was seeking a $200,000 investment for twenty percent of his company. The product is veterinary tested, easy to use, easy to wash off, and will make your dog one ofa kind. One investor commented that the product doesn't have a good price, ten dollars a can isn't something most households are willing to spend to spray paint their dog.Kevin said that if he was able to make a paint that no one else could make he would consider the offer but this product is one that anyone can come up with and distribute, so he was out. Lori was concerned with the amount of inventory and also said she was out. Mark was more concerned with the fact that Abe didn't ecognize the opportunity that online sales could bring him, so because of his lack of seeing potential ways to increase his business Mark also didn't invest.With four sharks now out, Robert was Abe's last chance to cut a deal and luckily he was on the fence. While trying to decide Barb comes swooping in offering him $200,000 for sixty percent of his business. His response shocked many when he said that he didn't want to work with someone who was Just interested in equity and declined the offer. It closed with Abe stating that he will be taking the advice of the sharks and Pet Paint will soon be online.

Mansfield Reformatory

Mansfield reform school The Mansfield helpful was strengthened in the year 1886 and was origin wholly(prenominal)y build with intentions of humanely rehabilitating commencement exercise-time offenders. The reformatory was initially applauded for creating a po stupefyive step forward for prison house reform. It was later in 1978 that the reformatorys legacy was one of abuse, torture, and murder. It had been denounced for brutalizing and inhuman conditions. strength among flimflams was an everyday way of life. Tales collapse been told of inmates existence sliced by shanks, beaten by soap bars and even throw from six-story high walk ways.These tragic deaths were all trigged from petty grievances. It has been told that on one purpose after a riot nearly one hundred and twenty inmates had been trammel for some(prenominal) days in the hollow with only twenty styles to incur these prisoners. One room consisted of a mountain and a bunk and was not capacious by any means . During this time at l atomic number 99 one inmate had been slay and hidden in the corner of the room under bedding material for the several days to follow. The sweat box was a special type of torture utilise on African American inmates and albumen prisons leakd this punishment.Along with the murders of countless prisoners, a prison farmer and his family, the warder and his wife also had died at the Mansfield Reformatory. After ninety-four years of operation, 154,000 inmates had passed finished its gates as a working prison. Eventually in the year 1990 the Mansfield Reformatory was shut down. Mansfield Reformatory Preservation friendship (MRPS) took over ownership and unsealed the prison to the macrocosm. Tours, over-night ghost hunts and ghost walks argon flat help on a unwavering basis at the reformatory.Since circulari telld to the public as an attraction it has been considered among ghost hunters as the most active haunted center in the United States. Paranormal inv estigators have captured numerous EVPs, standing for electronic map phenomena which generated noises that resemble speech, have reports of unexplained gelid spots and equipment malfunctions. The reformatory has earned itself some(prenominal) attention and has been the set for four movies including evoke and Walter Go to New York, Tango and Crash, strain power One, and The Shawshank Redemption. Not to mention Godsmack do this he scene for their Awake medical specialty video and Marilynn Manson has done photography in spite of appearance this spooky building. The history inside the walls of the Mansfield Reformatory makes it an interesting place to turn of events first hand. Tours are held on Saturdays and Sundays, there are four guided circles to choose from. The westward Tower Tour includes a tour from the guard tower. From a higher stead you can see the sop up of the graveyard where prisoners have been buried and assigned return is marked on their headstone. This t our takes you by dint of the Big Dig, which is the underground tunnel system. This lacerated consists of excessive stair climbing.The East cellular telephone barricade Tours travels through the length of the east cell block, the worlds largest disjoined steel cell block. A visualise to the Catholic Chapel and insight on the living quarters is also part of this tour. The Hollywood Tour shows the office of the warden in the Shawshank Redemption, the Parole Board Room and Andy Dufresnes escape tunnel. Hazard a trip into the blue hole. View the 1886 West Cell Block used as a Russian prison in Air Force One. This tour also involves extensive stair-climbing. The ass the Senses Tours ventures undersurface the scenes allowing access to areas not open to the general public.There is also a view of the West Attic and where guides share stories of inmate punishment. Guides will also take the tour through The Yard where Andy and Red would sit and talk also from the Shawshank Redemption. Admission for all tours is five dollars per person plus an additive fee of nine dollars per adult or seven dollars per child, senior, college students and military veterans. These tours are all-encompassing of history and interesting facts. You can alleviate see props left behind after filming had finished. I pass on everyone to take a tour and see for you what an amazing experience it is.