Russian Revolution

Between 1861 and 1917, Russian society had undergone many changes. It is safe to say that every aspect of that society had been some how modified. These changes led up to the Bolshevik revolution in November of 1917. Given the nature of Russian society, was the Bolshevik revolution unavoidable Among the changes Russian society had undergone, one starts off the whole chain of events. This was the emancipation of the serfs, in 1861, by Czar Alexander. The emancipation freed 44 million peasants. The Czar knew that the only way to end the discontent of the serfs and to show that Russia too was a modern society would be to let them free. The Edict of Emancipation caused many problems these uneducated peasants. The land now assigned to them was smaller then the plots they were using as serfs. This was an average of 8 acres. There was also a forty-nine year period over which installments could be paid before the peasants were given full ownership of the land. In fact many peasants were still working for their landlords after the edict. Because of his efforts Alexander was nicknamed the liberator.. Despite giving the serfs their freedom, Alexanders actions cause more problems then they solved. After the unification of Germany between 1861 and 1891, which accelerated its military and political power, Russia too felt it should industrialize. A man named Sergei Witte, who was Minister of Finance from 1892-1903, almost single-handedly pushed Russia into its industrialization. He knew that Russia needed something to start her on the road to industrialization. Wittes efforts made industrial advances from 1892 to 1910. Between 1880 and 1914, Russia had a growth rate of 3. 5%. This would have surely brought Russian higher in the rank of industrial and economical world powers. It was said that all Russia needs is 20 years of peace, without war and she will not be in risk of revolution. Unfortunately, the statement was ignored and in 1904, Russia commenced a yearlong war with Japan. The Czars ministers had assured him that the war with Japan would be an easy victory. In fact Russia suffered a devastating defeat. This leads to the revolution of 1905. Along with industrialization, Russia needed to educate the population. A large majority of the population was illiterate, and factories were looking for more skilled workers. The education of the people led to the growing popularity of several anti-Czarist groups. The Nihilists for example took very violent and destructive path towards revolution, the word nihil meaning nothing.. This group was mainly composed of young educated men from universities. There were also social democrats, such as the Bolsheviks and Mensheviks. Both groups aimed to over through the Czar and create a socialist state, they had the support of students and workers, but the main differences were in the organization of the parties. The Bolsheviks, believed in a small, secret, disciplined party of professional revolutionists who would seize power when the time was right.. They planned revolutionary cells of three or four people who would organize strikes and demonstrations in factories. Among these people was Vladimir Ulyanov, better as Lenin. He was a devoted Bolshevik who was exile to in Siberia after being arrested for his action in a Marxist group. Lenin remained outside Russia, with his wife Nadezhda Krupskaya, a fellow revolutionist, and organizing strikes until the revolution in 1917. The Mensheviks, believed the party should be a mass organization which all workers could join. This mass party would grow until it eventually took power. Among these the Mensheviks was Lev Bronstein, better known as Trotsky. Trotsky was a kulack, a rich peasant. Like Lenin he also fell in love with a fellow revolutionist. He was sent to exile for writing revolutionary pamphlets and leading strikes. Later on, he became the Menshevik chairman after coming back from exile in February of 1905. When the revolution collapsed he was once again arrested, but escaped and fled to America. In 1905, a petition of the workers and residents of St. Petersburg was submitted to Czar Nicholas II. A large group had formed in front of his palace and claimed that they would let themselves be shot if the demands of the people were not met, saying, we do not regret this sacrifice. We are glad to make it. Among the demands were: The immediate release of all who have suffered for religious, political, striking and peasant disorders. Universal education financed by the state. The guarantee of the rule of law. Equality of everyone. Separation of church and state. The abolition of indirect taxation. The abolition of redemption payments and the gradual transfer of land to the people. Abolition of the institution of factory inspectors. Immediate freedom for consumer and trade unions. Immediate introduction of a minimum wage. Immediate participation of the working classes in the drafting of a bill for state insurance of workers. The Czar responded by granting the population the freedom of speech, assembly and association, starting the Duma and the security that no law can be changed without the sanction of the state Duma. Unfortunately the set of three Dumas would not get anywhere at all, despite the efforts of Stolypin, who made great agricultural advances. On October 1916, a police report from Petrograd was released. The report states that military defeats helped the masses understand the problem of war. An unfair foodstuffs distribution, a rapid increase in living costs and a lack of supplies are factors that show the state is neglecting what is happening in Russia. Everyday life has become impossible and everywhere there are feelings of hostility. When the revolution took place in November 1917, the Czar had lost the support of his police, as they did not fire upon the crowds, as they did before. The people were just fed up and would not stand for what was happening in their country anymore. After rereading all the information I used to write this report I came to the conclusion that the revolution of 1917 indeed was unavoidable. Perhaps if Russia had gotten its 20 years of peace, as I notes before. Perhaps the Dumas would have worked out the way most people had hoped. The 20-year plan was interrupted by the war with the Japanese. This slowed down Russia development in every aspect. Then there was the First World War, which again slowed down Russian productivity and handicapped the whole country. Taking all the animosity the people felt towards the Czarist government I feel these events too were unavoidable. The Russian people had simply had enough and decided to take control of their own country.

Arguments for and Against Term Limits Essay

My research indicated there is more public support for term limits. The most common reason was voters feel dissatisfied and misrepresented by the candidate in office. It is believed that career politicians are elitists and do not have a clear understanding of what â€Å"real† people are dealing with or need. Term limits would create an even playing field for newcomers allowing new ideas and fresh thinkers into the mix. Newcomers would be less influenced by special interests and reduce corruption. Those opposed to term limits primarily support the premise that replacing seasoned experienced politicians with inexperienced members that are unfamiliar with the issues is detrimental to moving things forward. It takes years of experience to get up to speed on the issues and the rules of government. Limiting terms would be restrictive and eliminate the â€Å"good† guy politicians that are doing a good job representing the people. It is common that term limited politicians are not as committed toward the end of their term because they don’t have to worry about their record of accomplishments for re-election. When I first started to work on this assignment I was convinced that I was in favor of term limits for federally-elected officials. I was convinced that term limits were a good idea in order to reduce corruption and generate fresh ideas. After doing some initial research I realized that term limits are not the solution to government reform. The people elect government officials. It is up to the voters to vote in change, get involved, and support their candidate of choice. Voting is a civil liberty for all secured by the sacrifices of others. It is our citizen responsibility to invoke our right to vote and to be informed, educated voters. References htttp://dbp.idebate.org /en/index.php/Debate:_Term_limits_for_legislators http://suite101.com/article/term-limits-are-set-at-the-polls-a214115

As You Like It - the Play Essay Example for Free

As You Like It – the Play Essay As You Like It is considered by many to be one of Shakespeare’s greatest comedies, and the heroine, Rosalind, is praised as one of his most inspiring characters and has more lines than any of Shakespeare’s female characters. Rosalind, the daughter of a banished duke falls in love with Orlando the disinherited son of one of the duke’s friends. When she is banished from the court by her usurping uncle, Duke Frederick , Rosalind switches genders and as Ganymede travels with her loyal cousin Celia and the jester Touchstone to the Forest of Arden, where her father and his friends live in exile. Observations on life and love follow (including love, aging, the natural world, and death) friends are made, and families are reunited. By the play’s end Ganymede, once again Rosalind, marries her Orlando. Two other sets of lovers are also wed, one of them Celia and Orlando’s mean older brother Oliver . As Oliver becomes a gentler, kinder young man so the Duke conveniently changes his ways and turns to religion and so that the exiled Duke, father of Rosalind, can rule once again. â€Å"All the world ‘s a stage, and all the men and women merely players. They have their exits and their entrances; And one man in his time plays many parts† As You Like It – (Act II, Scene VII). â€Å"Can one desire too much of a good thing? â€Å". As You Like It (Act IV, Scene I). â€Å"True is it that we have seen better days†. As You Like It – Act II, Scene VII). â€Å"For ever and a day†. As You Like It – (Act IV, Scene I). â€Å"The fool doth think he is wise, but the wise man knows himself to be a fool†. (Act V, Scene I). The play is fictitious, but shakespeare is said to have taken the traits if rosalind from ‘Rosalynde’ by thomas lodge. One of Shakespeare’s early plays, As You Like It (1598-1599), is a stock romantic comedy that was familiar to Elizabethan audiences as an exemplar of â€Å"Christian† comedy. Although the play does include two offstage spiritual conversions, the â€Å"Christian† designation does not refer to religion itself. Instead, it denotes the restoration and regeneration of society through the affirmation of certain Christian values such as brotherly love, marital union, tolerance for different viewpoints, and optimism about life at large. The plot is very simple: the resolution of the dramatic problem in the warped attitudes of two evil brothers toward good brothers, and related obstacles to marriage for several couples in the play (most notably Rosalind and Orlando) are easily overcome, and a happy ending is never in doubt. On one level, the play was clearly intended by Shakespeare as a simple, diverting amusement; several scenes in As You Like It are essentially skits made up of songs and joking banter. But on a somewhat deeper level, the play provides opportunities for its main characters to discuss a host of subjects (love, aging, the natural world, and death) from their particular points of view. At its center, As You Like It presents us with the respective worldviews of Jaques, a chronically melancholy pessimist preoccupied with the negative aspects of life, and Rosalind, the play’s Christian heroine, who recognizes life’s difficulties but holds fast to a positive attitude that is kind, playful, and, above all, wise. In the end, the enjoyment that we receive from the play’s comedy is reinforced and validated by a humanistic Christian philosophy gently woven into the text by a benevolent Shakespeare. As You Like It – the Play. (2016, Sep 16). -like-it-the-play-essay We will write a custom sample essay on As You Like It – the Play specifically for you

Single Action Colt Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Single Action Colt - Essay Example When the gun first came into production in 1873 (Mings, 2010, p. 1), it was designed with an elegant simplicity. The key principles that lie behind the design are admired as a model for the whole design process, because they encapsulate what it means to match up exactly the purpose of the object with its form. The metallic sound of four clicks indicates the four step process of design: click one is a preparatory move, setting in place a safety lock; click two is a half cock position which allows the cylinder to be rotated and the gun to be quickly loaded with multiple bullets; click three engages the cylinder with the barrel and the fourth click signifies that the gun is ready to fire. Safety, flexibility, commitment and readiness are therefore the four key design principles of the gun, and the four stages in its firing. (Mings, 2010, p. 1). The main reason for the popularity of the Single Action Colt is its functionality. It is a small and relatively light weapon, which is requires two hands to set up, but can be easily fired by one hand. This is a significant advantage over a two barrelled shotgun which is unwieldy, takes much longer to load, and fires only two cartridges each time it is loaded. The elegant simplicity of its design makes it reliable, which is a major consideration in a conflict situation. For law enforcers it has the advantage of being easy to store and to use, even on horseback. Its nicknames were â€Å"Peacemaker† and â€Å"Frontiersman† because it was so adaptable to the difficult conditions of the frontier trail. Classic battles such as the ones in â€Å"Stagecoach† (1939) â€Å"Gunfight at the O.K. Corral† (1957) and more recently â€Å"The Mummy† (1999) and â€Å"Kill Bill† (2003 and 2004) feature the Colt Single Action revolver (imfdb website, 2011). The illustrious history of this firearm extends far beyond the movies, however. This little revolver, nicknamed also the sixgun,

Alternative Recruitment Methods in HR Practice Essay

Alternative Recruitment Methods in HR Practice - Essay Example References Carlson, K.D, Connerley, M.L and Mecham, RL. 2002. Recruitment evaluation: The case for assessing the quality of applicants attracted. Personnel Psychology. 55(2): 461-490. Taylor, S. 2005. People resourcing. 3rd ed. London: CIPD Publishing. 2. Why do employers persist with the selection interview when more accurate alternatives are available? Selection interviews are the most widely used methods of selection because of the clarity and simplicity as well as cost-effectiveness. Most organisations do not opt for alternative selection procedures because of their complexity in interpretation as well as costs; usage of alternative methods requires training for the managers or selectors whereas the traditional methods do not require any special training other than understanding the job requirements and matching them with the candidates’ skills. However, research indicates minimal or no correlation between future job performance and selection interview (Lunenburg, 2010). I nterviewers do not bother to test the effectiveness of selection interviews. Moreover, managers’ perception of their intuitive abilities rule over structured interview testing; managers tend to have strong belief in their judgmental abilities. Managers believe that selection interviews help to assess the candidates in a variety of situations, which also provides a comprehensive idea of the candidate and his/her fit to the job. Selection interviews do provide opportunities for manipulating the answers by the candidates. Besides these, selection interviews highlight certain skills that may or may not be relevant to the job requirements. Such skills include intangible characteristics such as candidate’s confidence, speaking abilities, positive attitude, presentation, and... Selection interviews are the most widely used methods of selection because of the clarity and simplicity as well as cost-effectiveness. Most organisations do not opt for alternative selection procedures because of their complexity in interpretation as well as costs; usage of alternative methods requires training for the managers or selectors whereas the traditional methods do not require any special training other than understanding the job requirements and matching them with the candidates’ skills. However, research indicates minimal or no correlation between future job performance and selection interview (Lunenburg, 2010). Interviewers do not bother to test the effectiveness of selection interviews. Moreover, managers’ perception of their intuitive abilities rule over structured interview testing; managers tend to have strong belief in their judgmental abilities. Managers believe that selection interviews help to assess the candidates in a variety of situations, which also provides a comprehensive idea of the candidate and his/her fit to the job. Selection interviews do provide opportunities for manipulating the answers by the candidates. Besides these, selection interviews highlight certain skills that may or may not be relevant to the job requirements. Such skills include intangible characteristics such as candidate’s confidence, speaking abilities, positive attitude, presentation, and enthusiasm. Many organisations have understood the drawbacks of selection interviews.

People who want to migrate to a country , do so because they want to Essay

People who want to migrate to a country , do so because they want to live that country's lifestyle and culture - they should assimilate and fit in or leave - Essay Example In other words migrants are to face a dilemma and either assimilate and fir in new community or just leave and get back home to the old one. In the period between 1950 and 1965 thousands of Dutch migrants came to New Zealand with poor English language skills; and around 10 per cent of them got back home because they failed to assimilate and learn new language (Crezee, 2012). On the other hand, some researchers believe that behavior patterns incidental to a certain culture are the result of individual choice (Wallendorf, & Reilly, 1983). Certainly, in case migrant fail to assimilate and respect the lifestyle of the new community that they have chosen to be their home, there is a serious possibility such migrants are not going to become successful members of such community and might as well be driven out of it. According to Dustmann, the feeling of national identity and family context influence the integration ability of migrants more than any other factors (37). If a migrant is not re ady to accept a new lifestyle and fit in different cultural context, he or she is most likely to fail in terms of assimilation. Thus, social integration is more important than economic integration. The ability to socialize in new environment and acquire new friends is also an important precondition for successful assimilation of a migrant (Facchini, Patacchini, & Steinhardt, 2014). All in all, assimilation is the most important factor within the process of successful integration of migrants. Failure to integrate into a new community is predefined by the inability to get assimilated culturally and socially. Crezee, I. (2012). Language shift and host society attitudes: Dutch migrants who arrived in New Zealand between 1950 and 1965. International Journal of Bilingualism 16.4 (2012): 528-540. The British Psychological

Planning Law & Ethics in Michigan Avenue Corridor Assignment - 1

Planning Law & Ethics in Michigan Avenue Corridor - Assignment Example The council also aspires to maintain activities that are environmentally friendly to the Red Cedar River. For the purpose of tackling and solving the urban decay in an effective way, redevelopment will assume diverse forms in order to facilitate its redesign. The redevelopment project will put into consideration factors such as the conditions of the building and conditions of living ­. The redevelopment project must, however, put into consideration the regulations of Renewal Authority Ordinance (URA) that help structure owners go through both complicated and technical processes. This process of redevelopment aims at restructuring dilapidated and old buildings whose living conditions are poor. The process will replan and rebuild the Avenue sites to accomplish clear environmental as well as social benefits (Brandon 297). In addition, redevelopment plan also targets the available open spaces and facilities of the community. The URA will, in addition, carry out assembly of larger areas of land for comprehensive planning. The comprehensive planning would create room for the restructuring of open space, transport network and local roads. Consequently, the company will achieve proper and better utilization of land resources as well as improving overall Michigan district environment. Planning efforts has a purpose of engaging the Lancing region to define a unified vision for Michigan Avenue, also known as Grand Avenue Corridor. The project aspires to extend eastwards to the town of Webberville. The Red Cedar project has an estimation of $200 million dollars slated for both residential developments and business to revitalize former Red Cedar Golf Club. The process will also create great renovation along the Lansing and East Lansing Michigan Avenue in the area around US 127. The redevelopment project set to break ground will be an establishment across the street from Frandor.  

Business Plan Master Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Business Plan Master - Assignment Example The reason for having chosen Ireland is that in Ireland many hardware and software manufacturers are located and Ireland is considered somehow the European "Silicon Valley". Profits4U's primary targets are large hardware and software corporations such as HP, IBM & Microsoft. The next target will be the medium-sized companies in multimedia and software, areas that have great development potential. Profits4U's goal is to be positioned as a trustful sales & marketing company. Profits4U's competition is mostly the sale and marketing in - house departments. An indirect competitor could be some management consulting firms such as Arthur Andersen etc. but as mentioned these companies are indirect competitors since they are generalists and they do not implement niche marketing. In addition, due to their sheer size, in many cases their projects are executed by junior consultants and not by their senior personnel. Profits4U in terms of price will be positioned as a brand name company meaning that its prices will be quite high. The high prices can be justified due to Profits4U expertise in sales & marketing and more specifically in sales & marketing of software and hardware product. Mrs. Clara Bauer and the rest of the management team are former executives of high tech companies specialized in sales and marketing. The management is consisted of 3 partners aiming to reach 5 partners. AccoAccording to the company's estimations the profits will reach the $65,000 by the third year 3 with a net profit margin of 6%. Profits4U plans to ask for bank loan of $130,000 t and ask for an additional one of $50,000 in order to invest it in long-term assets by 2010. There is no anticipation of cash flow problems. 1.1 Mission To provide hardware and software manufacturers a first class solution to business development on a national and international level. The competitive advantage of Profits4U is its expertise, confidentiality, professionalism and contacts. Profits4U can be combined with the internal sales and marketing people and at the same time be a cheaper way to develop new markets. It can be a real alternative to internal resources and it offers senior practical experience, know-how, contacts, and confidentiality. The customers should know that working with Profits4U is an efficient, economical and more professional way to develop new business rather than working solely with internal staff. The focus will be business development in the European and Latin American markets. 1.2 Keys to Success 1. Excellence in sales and marketing. 2. Generate new sales leads. 3. Provide apart from sales expertise market research and project consulting. 1.3 Objectives 1. The sales turnover should be $550,000 in 2009 and $1 million in 2011. 2. The desired gross profit margin will be higher than 70%. 3. The desired net income will be more than 5% of sales by 2011. 2.0 Start-up Summary The initial expenses (among them legal costs, logo design, stationery and related expenses are included) are estimated to reach $18,350. The short term assets (office,furniture etc.) are estimated to reach $32,000 and have as start up cash the amount of $25,000 . The details are included in the following table. Start-up 3.0 Services 3.1 Competitive Comparison The competition comes in several forms: 1. In - house sales and marketing personel. The competitive advantage of Profits4U is that the managers of the internal departments do not

Maritime technology Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Maritime technology - Essay Example Developments in shipbuilding technology; and coming up with new navigation aids have opened up the route hopefully for year-round navigation (Ragner 2000a). This essay seeks to examine the technical; navigation and operational issues in the realization of an effective Northern Sea Route in Navigation of Merchant ships. Year-round navigation on the NSR means massive economic and commercial benefits to the international community, as well as invigorates Russian goods transport; thus, availing more natural resources from the Russian Arctic on the world market (ScanEx 2010). Research efforts in the NSR have mainly focused on four themes incorporating; the natural circumstances in the Arctic and ice navigation technology; the eventual effects of opening the NSR upon the natural, biological and social environments in the Arctic regions; the potential of NSR economically and the political and legal backgrounds linked to the NSR opening (Brigham 2000). The following section will discuss the technical, navigational and operational activities undertaken by key players in the maritime industry in the realization of successful sailing in the arctic region. With the problem of ice in the arctic region, technical issues are core to the achievement of effective navigation in the sea. Invention of new vessels of high technology is crucial to counter the problem of ice in the Arctic region. Of late there has been the introduction of the first seismic vessel on the NSR; it has a design that saves time, fuel and cost (Oil & Gas Eurasia, 2011). This is a considerable achievement in the sense that, the aim of any organization is to sustainably reduce the cost of operation while at the same time, taking minimum time possible to accomplish any undertaking and achieve the intended target. According to Oil and Gas Eurasia (2011), the vessel by the name Polarcus Alima from the

The Intel Corporation Essay Example for Free

The Intel Corporation Essay Introduction The main purpose of this case analysis is to find the issue and problem that Intel Corporation faced and how they improve their performance and solve problems. First, I will summarize the history of Intel Corporation. Second, to point out the challenge that Intel Corporation has. And, third, I will use SWOT analysis to analyze the internal strengths and weakness and external opportunities and threats of Intel Corporation. Eventually, I will give some recommendation. History of Intel Corporation Intel Corporation is a leading microprocessor producer for personal computer (PC) in the world. Intel Corporation was formed by In 1968, Robert Noyce and Gordon Moore founded Intel Corporation. After Intel Corporation founded, they recruited several employees from Fairchild Semiconductor to help them. Intel Corporation was mostly influenced by Andy Grove. He was an autocratic leader and gave everyone lots of pressure. Under his rules and management style, Intel Corporation set a good culture result in the future success. Since the dawn of the Intel Corporation, it has gained the leading position in semiconductor industry such as memory chip and microprocessor. Intel invested heavily in their RD department in order to strengthen their innovative leading position to against competitors. However, in recently years, the personal computer industry appears the negative growth rate which may harm for Intel business due to the majority business comes from personal computer. Therefore, Intel Corporation should take a consideration of downward sign to seek opportunity to exploit the blue ocean market. SWOT analysis of Intel Strength 1. Product Diversification Intel has variety products such as processors, motherboards, servers, cable modems, and solid state drive. Although Intel has dominated the market, it still put a lot of efforts on their product innovation. Diversification of Products integrated not only provides customers one-stop purchasing but also attract different field customers. 2. Technology Innovative and Strong RD Competence Intel fully understands RD is the key to allow them to lead in high tech industry. Moreover, the customers will never feel satisfaction with buying the same or few types of microprocessors. In order to satisfy various demands, Intel always spend huge amount and put a lot of efforts into their RD department which makes Intel is able to introduce new products before its competitors. Consequently, Intel can provide the choices to the demand from high-end product with high price and the low-end demand with lower price. 3. Economic of Scale Intel has almost dominated the PC, laptop, and corporate computer’s CPU which allows Intel to build up highly barriers for the new entrants because of the large economies of scale. Once Intel reaches the economies scale, they have a significant cost advantage over its competitors and that this dominant ability will make its competitors are essentially price takers, with little power to set up their own prices. Weakness 1. The Struggle of Expanding Smartphone Business Many experts claim that the smart phone will be flagship product in high tech industry for next decades. However, currently, ARM (The Architecture for the Digital World) dominates the smart phone chip market and acknowledges the first mover advantaged. As a result, it is very difficult to expand smart phone chip business for Intel and lose its competitive advantage. 2. Downward Microprocessor Demand As I mentioned before, smart phone may take some market away from PC and laptop. Currently, the demand of PC and laptop’s CPU is decline but Intel cannot take any advantages on smart phone chip. Moreover, the majority of Intel’s business comes from Microprocessor which is very risky for Intel. As long as the demand drops dramatically, it will greatly harm for Intel. Opportunities 1. Keep Innovative Competitive Advantage Technology Innovation is a key to success in rapid changing and highly competitive high tech industry. Keeps it pioneering introduction new product will develop the entry barriers and gain the competitive advantages. 2. Product Improvement Recently, Intel has launched it smart phone processor chip to compete with ARM face to face. Although, their chip works better than ARM, their chip cost more power than ARM. Therefore, it is a very good opportunity to grasp market share that if Intel improve their product based on their strong RD. Threats 1. Globally Downward of Consumer Purchasing Power Economic crisis will trigger the downward pressure on consumer purchasing ability. Laptop and personal computer is consumer product when the decreased personal income will affect the demand. Consequently, the decreased of the demand will lead to negative impact on Intel’s sales and profits. 2. The Fighting Campaign from Competitor Although Intel has become the biggest company, they still need to pay attention on their competitor-AMD. The decisions made by Intel are highly dependent upon the action of their rivals. Intel needs to closely put their eye on AMD to avoid any technology fall behind to keep their leading innovation. Recommendation Intel should strengthen their PC and sever business by using technical leadership because the PC segment still estimates to have a growing market approximately 17% worldwide. Intel can launch more marketing campaigns and put more efforts on developing new technology to exploit more business. Intel can expand products into new device. The computing landscape is changing such as smart phone, smart phones, and tablets are connecting to the internet and become more intelligent. Intel should be more aggressive to pursue opportunities to expand their business in new device categories.

The Causes Of Eating Disorders Psychology Essay

The Causes Of Eating Disorders Psychology Essay An eating disorder is a psychological illness where the subject has an abnormal relationship with food, and has a distorted view himself or herself. Particularly in those who suffer from anorexia and bulimia, there is an obsession with weight loss and food intake. They are also unable to see how self-destructive their behaviour is, and view themselves as too fat even when underweight. (Tighe, 2011)This essay will examine the causes of eating disorders and the psychological explanations that go along with them. Three psychological models will be looked at the cognitive approach, the behavioural approach and finally, the psychodynamic approach. The basis of the Cognitive approach is the theory that the human brain works like a computer. Processed outside information becomes our thoughts and our output is our behaviour. Cognitive psychologists would explain that the causes of eating disorders are due to faulty cognition (thoughts) and having distorted perceptions of self. A. Beck was the pioneer of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), which can help eating disorder sufferers challenge their faulty thinking and change their perceptions. (DK, 2011)It is easy to see then, how CBT could be very useful in treating those with an eating disorder, as many symptoms of eating disorders are to do with faulty perception of the self. Fallon and Rozin (1985) also did research based on the cognitive model. They gave a chart of nine images of body types to both men and women. On the chart the silhouettes were either very slim to those of a higher weight. On the chart they placed how they perceived their own weight, how they perceived what weight was attractive to those of the opposite sex and their own, ideal weight. Women tended to place both their ideal weight and the weight they thought men would be attracted to on the lower side of the scale. Their perceived current weight placed at a significantly higher point on the scale. The men however, placed both their ideal weight and current weight close together but the weight that they perceived women to find attractive was higher on the chart*. This research is useful at seeing the difference between how male and female perception of self and ideal weight differs. However, there are some problems with it. For example, all the people asked were American and between the ages of 18-19 and all went to a private college, which suggests that they were, upper to middle class. This means that this piece of research is highly ethno- centric; it is not applicable to those who are exempt from that background and culture. The research in itself also lacks a certain amount of objective, as even though it shows peoples perceptions of their body it does not mean they are all suffering or will suffer from an eating disorder. The research also now lacks historical validity as it was carried out in 1985. Ideal body image was different to how it is now. (Adler, 1992) The cognitive approach can have positive appraisal as it backed up scientifically. Its face validity reflects in the success rate for CBT, which is often very high. The downside is that is seems to de-humanise people. It does not place any bearings on the patients emotions or their individual circumstances. A patient also seems to face large amount of blame and responsibility. In contrast with the Cognitive, approach is the psychodynamic approach; Sigmund Freud was the main trailblazer and the first person to study the mind. He believed that Mental Illness and mal -adaptive behaviour was due to repressed memories and emotions held in our unconscious mind and that, causes of emotional pain can be bought out through psychoanalysis (DK, 2011). This quote also links into another part of what Freuds theory was on how the human mind worked. He believed that the human psyche had three main parts: the id, ego and the superego. Freud believed the id is responsible, for our basic animal instincts, such as wanting food, or sex. There was also the ego was the part of the mind that was connected with the reality of the situation you are in. Finally, the superego is the moral part of the psyche. It is the voice that tells us was is good and right to do regardless of what the id wants. Freuds belief is that if the id, ego and superego are unbalanced then it is one of the pre- cursors to mental illness, such as an eating disorder. Freud also put a strong emphasis on early childhood experiences. He concluded that poor parenting or difficulty bonding with parents as a child could lead to mental illness and abnormal behaviour as an adult. A psychodynamic view of the cause of someone having an eating disorder if a younger women for example, would be that in her unconscious mind she fears becoming an adult. Due to this fear, she tries to revert to being a child by losing weight, causing her to lose her feminine figure and to stop herself menstruating. H. Bruch also believed that this aspiration of wanting to become a child might also be to do with having a poor relationship with parents who did not help her to develop any sort of identity. * There are some definite criticisms about the psychodynamic approach. One of the biggest problems with it is its very difficult to test as it is based on case studies, not scientific testing. In fact, the only way you could test it is by using identical twins by putting one through a trauma and the other one not; this of course, is greatly unethical. You also cannot duplicate the exact result on any other patient. What more, the approach has a huge bias against parenting and the role it could play in mental illness. However, numerous case studies back up the psychodynamic approach and the use of psychoanalysis; so it could work for some people. The last and final approach analysed is the Behavioural approach. The theory of it is that all behaviours learned are due to experience. In addition, those behaviours can then be unlearned. Ivan Pavlov, research the theory of classical conditioning by using dogs. He used a stimulus such as a bell ringing and giving the dog food at the same time to condition the dog to expect food whenever it heard the bell ring. The dog would even start to salivate before it saw the food but still heard the ringing of the bell. (Youtube, 2008) B.F Skinner expanded on Pavlovs research and called his theory Radical Behaviourism. He started by using mice. He would place the mice in a box; whenever the mouse pressed a lever or bar, it food was given. Skinner explained that this wasnt operant conditioning like Pavlovs as there was no preceding stimulus; the behaviour of the mouse was continued by the positive reinforcement of getting food. He continued his research by then wiring up the floor of the box t o an electric source. The mouse would then get a shock when performing certain behaviour. The mouse then learned the behaviour and shock were linked .This is negative reinforcement. (DK, 2011) The behavioural approaches explanation of the causes of an eating disorder in an individual would be due to either positive or negative reinforcement. An example of operant conditioning, that led to someone developing an eating disorder would be, that if a teenage girl kept losing weight and got continuous praise from friends, but then also receiving negative criticism from her parents for saying she was greedy whenever she ate. She would learn that if she lost weight and did not eat much her friends would complement her and her parents in turn, would accept her. Criticisms of the behavioural approach are that scientific testing is possible. It also gives quick results when it comes to treatment. Unfortunately, it does not focus on the patients emotions or their current personal circumstances. Neither, is it suitable to treat all illnesses, with eating disorders in particular a downside of it would be, that it changes the behaviour but has not influence of the cause, of that behaviour. In conclusion, it is widely acknowledged that eating disorders do not have one overruling cause but have a complex mixture of disordered thinking and negative perceptions of self. Poor interpersonal relationships and past trauma may also play a part. Eating disorders may also run in social groups and behaviours associated with eating disorders may be picked up/learned through peer pressure. (National Eating Disorders Association, 2004)It is safe to say then that all of the psychological approaches: cognitive, behavioural and psychodynamic are all perfectly valid in explaining why someone may suffer from an eating disorder and it is wise to keep an open minded approach to treating an eating disorder, as all of the approaches work in a highly interwoven and harmonious way. *Allen. C (2012) Lecture notes: Studies on eating disorders. [Access to HE, 24th October] References: Adler, L. D. (1992). Female and Male Perceptions of I deal Body Shapes. Retrieved October Wednesday 24th, 2012, from Lillianmcmaster.com: http://www.lillianmcmaster.com/resources/ideal%20body%20image%20study%20on%20caucasians.pdf DK. (2011). The Psycholgy Book. London: Dorling Kindersley. National Eating Disorders Association. (2004). What Causes Eating Disorders. Retrieved October Thursday 25th, 2012, from National Eating Disorders.org: http://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/nedaDir/files/documents/handouts/WhatCaus.pdf Tighe, J. (2011, May). Eating Disorders. Retrieved October Wednesday 24th, 2012, from BBC Health: http://www.bbc.co.uk/health/emotional_health/mental_health/mind_eatingdisorders.shtml Youtube (Director). (2008). Classical Conditioning- Ivan Pavlov [Motion Picture].

The Scaffold in The Scarlet Letter :: Scarlet Letter essays

The Scaffold in The Scarlet Letter The Scarlet Letter, by Nathaniel Hawthorne, is characterized by three major events that occur on the town scaffold. What takes place on this platform will determine the path which the three main characters, Hester Prynne, Mr. Dimmsdale, and their daughter Pearl will follow. The three scenes mark the beginning, middle, and end of their ignominy. The scaffold is a platform where criminals are punished before all the townspeople. In this case, the criminal is Hester Prynne and the crowd has gathered to witness her shame. The first scene at the ominous platform is Hester's first public appearance with the child and the scarlet letter. Hester's husband, Roger Prynne (Chillingworth) makes a sudden reappearance and is among the onlookers. The Reverend Mr. Dimmsdale is also there but he does not stand with Hester on the scaffold, instead he stands on the balcony with those who pass judgment on her. During this time, Reverend Mr. Wilson demands that Hester give the name of her lover. He gives her the chance to "take the scarlet letter off [her] breast" if she were to "speak out his name"(64). Had she relented and revealed his name she might never have had to endure the humiliation of the scarlet letter. But she refused, and so her path was set. The second time at the scaffold was a turning point for Hester. She, Pearl, and Dimmsdale are together for the first time, "...the three formed an electric chain" as if they were always meant to be together if something, or someone, had not gotten in their way (140). But it is here that Hester finally realizes the damage which hiding Chillingworth's identity has caused Dimmsdale. Chillingworth was "a secret enemy...continually at his side, under the semblance of a friend and helper..." when in truth he was tormenting Dimmsdale at every opportunity (153). When Hester sees the miserable state that he is in, weak and "on the verge of lunacy", it leads her to later seek him out in the forest to confess the true identity of Chillingworth, which in turn leads to their plan to leave Salem. Their plans were never carried through because of another visit to

Detective Fiction & Sir Arthur Conan Doyle Essay -- Literary Analysis

According to the English crime writer P.D. James (1920-) â€Å"for a book to be described as detective fiction there must be a central mystery and one that by the end of the book is solved satisfactorily and logically, not by good luck or intuition, but by intelligent deduction from clues honestly if deceptively presented.† (James. 2009: 16). This is traditionally conducted via a detective; a figure deployed within the narrative structure ‘whose occupation is to investigate crimes’ (Oxford. 2006: 202). Therefore detective fiction represents an enigma, a puzzle to be solved through an intriguing series of events and clues presented by the writer to its audience; that are taken on a journey through a process of reasoning, elimination and conclusion to solve a mystery. The narrative formula allows the audience to engage on an exploration of self-discovery as â€Å"the mystery’s solution supplies a temporary sense of self through which the reader is offer ed an apparatus for negotiating the boundaries that define identity.† (McCracken. 1998: 50). Detective fiction can be defined and situated into various different categories; â€Å"one is taxonomic†¦placing it in relation to other types of popular literature†¦Westerns, science fiction, spy tales and so on. John G. Cawelti’s (Adventure) has grouped these types into larger categories called ‘archetypes’ which are convenient for making an initial distinction between two major kinds of detective fiction, ‘Mystery’ and ‘Adventure.’ (Rzepka. 2005: 9). This raises the question of how detective fiction appeals to past and present audience’s and its position as part of a mass market publication in contemporary society. In order to answer this question it is important to briefly summarise the rise o... ...e for Policing and Crime. (2012) History of the Metropolitan Police. [On-line] Available from: http://www.met.police.uk/history/definition.htm. [Accessed 21st April 2012] Penguin Readers, (2008) A Scandal in Bohemia. [On-line] Available from: http://www.penguinreaders.com/pdf/downloads/pr/teachers-notes/9781405879347.pdf. [Accessed 21st April 2012] Project Gutenberg. (2011) Detective Fiction (Bookshelf). [On-line] Available from: http://www.gutenberg.org/wiki/Detective_Fiction_(Bookshelf). [Accessed 20th April 2012] Sir Arthur Conan Doyle Literary Estate. (2000) The Official Website of the Sir Arthur Conan Doyle Literary Estate. [On-line] Available from: http://www.sherlockholmesonline.org/. [Accessed 20th April 2012] The Sherlock Holmes Company, (2010). [On-line] Available from: http://www.sherlockholmes.com/. [Accessed 21st April 2012]

Symbols and Symbolism - Flowers as a Symbol in John Steinbecks The Chr

Flowers as a Symbol in The Chrysanthemums by John Steinbeck      Ã‚  Ã‚   In romantic or sexual context, a woman is often said to be as beautiful as a flower. In John Steinbeck's short story "The Chrysanthemums", Elisa Allen never receives this recognition. Although she is a strong woman, she is frustrated because her husband will not admire her romantically in any way. This frustration only deepens because she is childless and feels the need to be a mother. She discovers an outlet for her frustration in a flower garden where she cultivates beautiful chrysanthemums. Steinbeck uses these elegant flowers as a symbol to represent the tender, inner-self of all women, including Elisa. First, the chrysanthemums symbolize Elisa's children. She tends her garden and handles the chrysanthemums with love and care, just as she would handle her own children. Elisa is very protective of her flowers and places a wire fence around them; she makes sure "[n]o aphids, no sowbugs or snails or cutworms" are there. "Her terrier fingers [destroy] such pests before they [can] get started" (240). These pests rep... ...s and her emotional needs. The encounter with the tinker reawakens her sexuality and brings hope to Elisa for a more exciting and romantic marriage, but her realization that her life is not going to change is crystallized when she sees the flowers thrown on the road. It devastates her completely to have to settle for such an unfulfilling life. Work Cited Steinbeck, John. "The Chrysanthemums." Literature: An Introduction to Fiction, Poetry, and Drama. Ed. X. J. Kennedy and Dana Gioia. 6th ed. New York: Harper Collins, 1995. 239-47.  

Emotions & Brody Essay

Brody (2001) defines â€Å"emotions as motivational systems with physiological, behavioral, experiential, and cognitive components† (p. 15). The author adds that â€Å"emotions have a positive or negative valence and also vary in intensity or arousal levels, from mild to strong† (p. 15). Emotional expression indicates outward manifestation on an individual’s face, while emotional experience is a state of feeling that only the individual knows it (Brody, 2001). Emotional expression may either play a role as a self-communicative function or may reflect the behavioral and physiological arousal together with the emotional experience (Brody, 2001). Expression of feelings may help an individual to determine the characteristic of an emotional experience (Brody, 2001). Factors that influence facial expression rely on the individual who expresses the emotion, the individual who perceives the emotion, the message expressed in each channel, and previous experience (Ekman & Sullivan, 1991). Facial feedback pertains to patterned proprioceptive feedback coming from the muscle activity in the face or from integrated expressions in the face (Ekman & Sullivan, 1991). According to Ekman and Sullivan (1991), the facial feedback hypothesis is an important determining factor of the experience of emotion. The authors add that the facial feedback hypothesis contends that an individual can utilize information from his or her own facial behavior to figure out what he or she feels. The facial feedback hypothesis also claims that the expression of emotion causes autonomic, hormonal, and behavioral alterations that initiate the experience of the emotion (Brody, 2001). Facial expressions are being utilized by individuals as clues as to what emotions they are experiencing or in making judgments concerning their attitudes (Brody, 2001). A positive facial expression show more positive reactions such as understanding instead of anger, than those individuals who are showing angry facial expressions (Brody, 2001). Emotional experience happens when unforeseen changes in personally significant goals are realized (Stein, Hernandez, & Trabasso, 2008). The situation that surrounds an emotion starts when a precipitating event happens and warns an individual to some type of alterations in a personally significant goal (Stein, Hernandez, & Trabasso, 2008). An emotional episode is defined as a â€Å"sequence of events that includes the precipitating event; appraisals of the change in the status of a goal; the physiological and neurophysiological reactions that occur in relation to the change; the emotional reaction itself; and subsequent appraisal, planning, and behavior sequences carried out to cope with the impact of the goal change† (Stein, Hernandez, & Trabasso, 2008, p. 575). An emotional response of an individual should continue to be expressed or experienced if new meaning is realized from discovering a repeated event in order for the event to be connected to new information not previously accessed (Stein, Hernandez, & Trabasso, 2008). Appraisal theory contends that emotions rely on understanding the adaptational relevance or personal significance of a situation (Parkinson, 2001). Appraisal is influenced by several factors such as perceptual, sensory-motor, and cognitive processes (Parkinson, 2001). Furthermore, appraisal processes are believed to happen between input and output in a cognitive system of an individual (Parkinson, 2001). They are influenced by an ongoing dialogue, in which interpersonally distributed cognition was used to achieve emotional conclusions (Parkinson, 2001). When an individual describes his or her experience based on a given emotion, he or she has a tendency to manifest distinctive patterns of appraisal corresponding to the given emotion (Parkinson, 2001). This means that an individual’s everyday emotional representations are linked with relatively consistent attributes of appraisal profiles (Parkinson, 2001). References Brody, L. (2001). Gender, emotion, and the family. Cambridge, MA: Harvard University Press. Ekman, P. & O’Sullivan, M. (1991). Facial expression: Methods, means, and moues. In R. S. Feldman & B. Rime (Eds. ), Fundamentals of nonverbal behavior (pp. 163-199). Cambridge University Press. Parkinson, B. (2001). Putting appraisal in context. In K. R. Scherer, A. Schorr, & T. Johnstone (Eds. ), In Appraisal processes in emotion: Theory, methods, research (pp. 173-186). USA: Oxford University Press. Stein, N. L. , Hernandez, M. W. , & Trabasso, T. (2008). In M. Lewis, J. M. Haviland-Jones, L. F. Barrett (Eds. ), Handbook of emotions (pp. 574-586). United Kingdom: Guilford Press.

Attitude Toward Power Essay

Both Ulysses and Macbeth were able to gain power of kingship, but the way they gained the powers are different. In this essay I am going to compare how they regard power, both differently and similarly. I intend to use Heinemann, (1994), version of Macbeth by Shakespeare and the class handout of Ulysses. The main focus of Macbeth will be from Act1 Scene 7, lines 1-28 and Act 2 Scene 1, line 33-61, whilst I will also take account of other related part throughout the play. Since Lord Tennyson and William Shakespeare are from different era in the history, their perspective of the world will be different, therefore I will also mention about Shakespeare’s and Lord Tennyson’s different perspective towards power and language they used. Most great writers reflect their attitude to life on their work, so it is important to consider the social and historical background of the Jacobeans- the time when Shakespeare wrote the play, and the Victorian time, when Lord Tennyson was alive. In Victorian times, Britain was a powerful country. There were unlimited opportunities for mainly the upper class people to broaden their knowledge by going to new places and experience the foreign cultures. When Lord Tennyson wrote this poem, he was grieving over his best friend’s death. By writing this poem he was able to express his emotional feeling as well as to persuade him to let it go. He also had the opportunities to tell people that it is â€Å"never too late to seek a newer world†. For examples, Ulysses’ new world would be the after life world and Lord Tennyson’s new world would be the world without his best friend. At the end of Macbeth, the moral we get is that never to cross the line of Divine Order. During Jacobean time, they believed that the duty of the King is chosen by God: They believed that every living organism has an order and it is decided by God, this is call the Divine Order. If one decides to go against the Divine Order, like killing the King to be the monarchy himself then, he had done something that is very morbid during the Jacobeans: going against God. Shakespeare tried show that by the cost of Macbeth have to face after he had murdered the King, one example is that he lost his respects from his courtiers and at the end he was all by himself. Jacobeans were also very superstitious; they believed that witches are evil because they worship demon, so if there was a plague or a natural disaster, they blamed on the witches: they are first put to trials and then was executed, mainly hanged or burned. Because Shakespeare made Macbeth associate with the witches by talking and worse of all trusting them, that made Macbeth evil. Shakespeare did this to please his King, King James, as he was against the supernatural and was able help King James to spread the evilness of the witches through his play. The poem, â€Å"Ulysses† started by a slow rhythm. Lord Tennyson managed this by using the words with long vowels such as, â€Å"hoard, and sleep, and feed†. These words give us the sense of dullness and mundane, which was how Ulysses feels at the beginning. However, as we go further down the poem, the dullness was decrease as he started to talk about his adventurous days.

Learning approach Essay

The essay examines the comparison of surface approach and deep approach used in university students. As a fact, many first year students, regardless of majors, adopt surface approaches to learning. However, universities encourage students to accept a deep approach to learn rather than surface approach. Therefore, many first year students face a challenge to use which approach to achieve high academic grades. The essay presents the two opposite arguments about the learning approaches, and then raises opinion that deep approach is a much feasible method. The surface approach to learning mentions students just recite study content rather than acknowledge the true meaning. Many first year students nowadays, regardless of their area of study, adopt surface approaches to learning. Actually, such surface learning approach is not quite effective. This is because such approach is stemmed from students’ previous learning knowledge, while the knowledge is not related with positive absorption. The knowledge is owned by students’ tutors rather than students themselves (Masters & Donnison, 2010). Students treat the learning courses as routine  memorizing process or requirement. They tend to focus much more energy on the surface requirements like reciting words or sentences, pursuit surface meaning of the tasks or courses without their own deep thoughts. Such learning approach makes students seldom timely respond learning strategies, lack learning enthusiasm and driving forces (Entwistle & Peterson, 2004). They will often feel pressure about study task, which will impact their confidence from a long run. Furthermore, due to these features, surface approach is usually thought as lack of understanding. Facts have proved that  surface approaches to learning are often related with poor academic performance over the first semester of study (Entwistle & Peterson, 2004). However, some researchers think it is not correct to think surface approaches to learning are always inefficient or ineffective, for example, as to some courses such as foreign languages study, basic mathematics and etc. , the capability of memory is regarded as necessary, because it builds up the base for deeper learning in such courses (Masters & Donnison, 2010). It is well known that advanced study contains learning process which makes  students become competent learner who fully understand the academic knowledge and restructure knowledge systems from his own perspective of view. Actually, this explanation reflects the essence of deep approach to learning. A deep approach to learning is defined as a complicated process of individual development which generates the fundamental change of learning habits and perspectives (Rawson, 2000). It is also required students to set up meaningful tasks objectives for engagement, put efforts on understanding deep context meanings and main principles, and utilize academic knowledge  into actual practice. Some researchers argue that the deep approach to learning is a kind of innovations in university course, but however it has none business with first year students (Masters & Donnison, 2010). The reason is that first year students have limited experiences in campus living and the priority thing for them is get quick familiar with the new surroundings. And what is more, they think it is difficult for first year students to go beyond basic understanding of the learning courses as most of them just start live and study independently (Entwistle & Peterson, 2004). Students in first year fail to present the all characteristics related to deep learning such as dedication in specific tasks continuously and persistently (Entwistle & Peterson, 2004). But the essay holds on the opinion that deep learning approach is not necessarily impracticable for first year students. The reason is because some first year students have used the deep approach to learning when they are studying in high school. Good learning habits or method is not directly limited by students existing experience and incapacity to merge various kinds of  basic knowledge (Donnison & Penn-Edwards,2012). Besides the above argument, for first year students, it is important to use strategic approach and put efforts into organized study since study is a process with a specific learning intention to fulfill all kind of assessment (Burton, Taylor, Dowling, & Lawrence, 2009). The said organized study contains effective time management and learning behaviors management which mean students need to learn to monitor the effectiveness of their study outcomes. From this point of view, therefore, a deep learning is preferable. At the first year stage, it is suggested that there is a need for students to change students learning habits from surface approaches to deep learning since one of the ultimate objectives of undergraduate education is to establish and develop students’ correct lifelong learning habits and thinking skills, which can benefit their whole life (Burton, Taylor, Dowling, & Lawrence, 2009). The learning approaches are much more important and meaningful than academic grades. Many educators argue that the first year in university should be assigned to build up a mature  methodology which could consistently help students take advanced learning, and assist them to change learning behaviors to become adaptive with higher education (Entwistle & Peterson, 2004). Additionally, deep approach to learning can make many students achieve good academic assessment from a long run. Students engage in learning just because of academic assessment demands, therefore using the appropriate assessment would seem much meaningful. Nowadays, university begins to take the comprehensive assessment system to evaluate students’ achievement rather than just use course scores before. Such changes of assessment practice will also push students to move from initial surface learner to deep learner. Students are encouraged to focus on soft aspects instead of hard scores. It is argued that it is necessary for first year students to make their learning processes transparent. And what is more, it is important to come into being the understanding (Burton, Taylor, Dowling, & Lawrence, 2009). In conclusion, some researchers have different arguments or indication for first year students to use a surface approach or a deep approach to learning. Researchers argue that some surface approaches of learning is important for first year students because the skills of memorization can be used to deepen and develop understanding which students can accept and come into being an learning approach (Entwistle & Peterson, 2004). They think the deep learning is impracticable and unexpected to first year students. While other opinions think the deep approaches of learning is much more important than surface one because learning attitude and methodology can build up solid base for student lifelong study. There is a place in higher education for a deep  approach to learning. The academic scores should not be put into first place for first year students (Burton, Taylor, Dowling, & Lawrence, 2009). Certainly, a complete education is aimed to keep balance between knowledge memorization and utilization. The essay proposes that deep approach of learning rather than surface learning should be regarded as an important and necessary method in university study, particularly first year study. Therefore, how to transit from surface approach to deep approach in order to go through the courses smoothly and achieve study objectives is the most critical topic  for most of first year students. References list: Burton, L. , Taylor, J. , Dowling, D. , & Lawrence, J. (2009). Learning approaches, personality and concepts of knowledge of first-year students: Mature-age versus school leavers. Studies in Learning, Evaluation, Innovation and Development, 6(1), 65-81. Donnison, S. & Penn-Edwards, S. (2012). Focusing on first year assessment: Surface or deep approaches to learning? The International Journal of the First Year in Higher Education, 3(2),9-20 Entwistle, N. , & Peterson, E. (2004). Conceptions of learning and knowledge in  higher education: Relationships with study behaviour and influences of learning environments. International Journal of Educational Research, 41, 407-428. Masters, J. , & Donnison, S. (2010). First year transition in teacher education: The pod experience. Australian Journal of Teacher Education, 35(2), 87-98. Penn-Edwards, S. , & Donnison, S. (2011). Engaging with higher education academic support: A first year student teacher transition model. European Journal of Education, 46(4), 566-580. Rawson, M. (2000). Learning to learn: More than a skill set. Studies in Higher Education, 25(2), 225-238.

Internet security Essay

Our instructor gave us an assignment and I had to look for some information from the online library. I dashed to the public library nearby and at the entrance I was greeted by a sign with the words â€Å"Internet security enforced† So the internet services offered by the library had at last been secured! In the current world the term internet is very common. As Curtin admits in his essay on Introduction to network security â€Å"This is a word that I have heard way too often in the last few years. Movies, books, newspapers, magazines, television programs, and practically every other sort of media imaginable have dealt with the internet recently. Internet is a term used to refer to a ‘network of other networks’ (Curtin, par 21-22). Internet has a history in itself. It was created mainly to improve the interactions among different researchers sponsored by the government. The internet grew rapidly in the years of 1980s in educational institutions, business organizations, government agencies and international institutions. By the years of 1990s, internet usage had phenomenally grown and the networking had increased at a very fast rate compared to any network that had ever been used before like telephone use for networking. When a look is made into the present, millions and millions of internet users are connected with majority being those in business (NIST, par 7). The internet technology works magic in this advanced society. However, one is at risk of attacks sneaking through the front door if the internet site is insecure and the computer system is not ready to handle such cases of insecurity. It is thus important to have internet security. What then is internet security? Internet Security Concept To get a better insight of the positive and the negative side of internet security as part of technology, it is important to understand the concept ‘Internet security’. Security seems to be an ambiguous term. Everyone argues differently of what this is and furthermore the acceptable risk levels. Internet security entails the protection of the network against threats. Security is an issue for not only everyone but also everything. Even the internet needs to be secured from threats such as viruses (Curtin, par 104-105). Viruses are the source of computer system insecurity. Virus is software that clings to host software. It uses the host’s ability to replicate itself. When the host program is executed, the host also executes its duty. It also attaches itself to other programs. Viruses erase programs, steal personal information or declare their presence blocking important information. They pose great dangers to computer system. Therefore computer systems need to be secured (MacForensicsLab, par 17-28). Benefits of Internet Security The benefits that accrue from a secure internet are far reaching and wide. Furthermore, it takes less to prevent than to cure. The main purpose of internet security is to give protection against viruses. Viruses are the greatest evil doers when it comes to the information technology (NIST, par7-10). Just like any other virus that cause diseases, computer viruses are on the increase all of which have their origin from the widely used internet. They can be so dangerous to a computer system and can lead to its destruction. Such infections can lead to loss of important data. Internet security programs such as antivirus ensure that all data obtained from the internet is scanned to remove all the unwanted programs and viruses. Antivirus is a strong antibiotic that strongly fights the computer viruses. This ensures that the incoming information is clean and safe for use in a computer system (Kapsersky, par 6-9). Internet security keeps one’s information confidential. The world of technology has greatly expanded. Internet technology can however be applied wrongly. For instance, if a system is not secure, other person can get access to the system via the internet. Some unwanted programs can be launched into the computer’s memory. However, the security put as a guard warns users of such dangerous processes and prevents harmful changes that may be done on the file system. Internet security also protects the computer from spyware; confidential information such as bank account numbers, passwords and details from credit cards is secured from being viewed by intruders (Kapsersky, par 13). Internet security protects a computer system from hackers. Technology have gone too far such that it is possible to scan another computer’s ports through the network. Such hackers are malicious and are done to attack the network. What the internet security does is to block any further communication with that computer that attempting to attack (Kapsersky, par 16). Furthermore, some internet security programs allow users to only access secure intranet or internet. The firewall determines the limits of the rules. More so a computer can be prevented from visibility by other computers online. Once a certain mode such as stealth mode has been switched on, the computer becomes invisible from other networks. All other network activities ceases apart from the specified. Therefore any plans to invade the systems are altered. Internet security can therefore guard the whole system from attacks by viruses such as the Trojan horse and prevents a computers data access by any unauthorized personnel (Kapsersky, par 18-19). Most of the internet security focus on the physical infrastructures; the network itself. However, there are others that provide total solution as far as internet security is concerned. That is, the network, applications as well as platforms. Examples of these include, Microsoft NT (R) as well as UNIX (R). A protection that is over all is the best for a total security of the computer from the internet ‘evils’. Internet Security provides protection services to enable various organizations in the implementation of a secure access to data as well as assets through the World Wide Web (Business Wire, par 2-3). Damages Caused By Internet If a computer system is not protected, threats may end up ruining the overall system. Computer software and other accessories are exposed to harms from the internet and hence their functioning. There is therefore need to ensure that the system is safeguarded before accessing the internet. Security is ensured by various programs such as antivirus. They detect presence of a virus into a system and repair the situation through a command. Unsecured sites are open to any intruder (NIST, par 9-12). However ‘evil’ internet security has also emerged. ‘Evil’ technology has also continued to evolve currently. There are some stronger viruses that have been made by criminals that the antivirus is unable to detect such as the Trojan Horse. Trojan Horse make defense almost impossible. It exploits the weakness in the user to find some entry into the secured system. The malware pretends to be of importance to the user. The user will be attracted and execute the malware in disguise (MacForensicsLab par 17-28). The virus in it is hidden in the payload and when in the system performs the desired function by its author. The malware can steal information as well as property from a ‘secure’ system. Personal information is stolen to assist in theft from a person’s bank account, credit card and other important areas. The same knowledge that was used to make the internet secure has made it more insecure. Stronger virus programs have also come up through technology to counter the antivirus. Through pretence to give the system security, the viruses find their way (MacForensicsLab par 17-28). Some antivirus has as a result become weak and cannot detect the strong viruses such as the Trojan horse and Autorun viruses. Just like in the Trojan data access, data will also be ruined even in the presence of antivirus (NIST, par 9-12). Conclusion Technology is advanced day in and day out to make better man’s world. Some many discoveries on technology have been made such as the internet. It has been widely adopted in all spheres of human live. Despite the interne technology benefits, it has been misused. Through technology dangerous programs have been made and they are a great threat to internet users such as viruses. More technology has come up with programs to secure the internet. In spite of this security stronger viruses find their way into the system such as the Trojan horse. Something needs to be done to fight the stronger viruses. Work Cited Business Wire. Internet Security Advantages, Inc Offers Secure Centralized Access & Control Consulting Services for Web-Based Business Applications. BNET, 1 July 1998 Web. 5 June, 2010, . Curtin, Matt. Introduction to Network Security. Kent Information Services. nd March 1997. Web. 5 June 2010 . Kapspersky. Kaspersky Internet Security. Kapserspersky. com. nd Web. 5 June, 2010, . MacForensicsLab. Malware on mac os x-virues, Trojans, and worms. MacForensicsLab. 2010. Web. 5 June 2010 . NIST. An introduction to computer security. Web. 5 June, 2010, http://www. rxn. com/services/faq/internet/ISPTG-1. html

Job Analysis Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 2

Job Analysis - Essay Example The Parking and Transportation Office Assistant is required to have a strong inclination towards teamwork as he will be working with supervising staff and other administrative staff for technical and functional assistance. One has to be professional in appearance to keep a good image of the office he represents and to demand respect from the people he deals with. Moreover, the Office Assistant should have the passion for excellent customer service because it is his basic duty to communicate with them. Therefore, with this demand the job requires, the employee should also have the ability to think creatively and critically as well as work independently. He should have the initiative to oversee the organization of the office and its efficient functioning as needed. Attention to detail is required to keep the office run efficiently and smoothly including details to information entered for recording purposes. The Office Assistant should have a good working knowledge of computer software especially Word and Excel for the entry of data gathered during the day. He should have gained a one year experience on general clerical duties. He will be under direct supervision while learning work requirements and responsibilities will widen as one learns to perform basic duties and seem to show mastery of which. Examples of specific duties are as follows: answer phone calls and inquiries regarding parking and transportation services offered by SCHOOL NAME; personally receive customers and attend to their needs and inquiries regarding parking and transportation of the school; type information like inquiries, parking permits sold, permits ordered, parking citations issued and the like; enter data on Word and Excel processors for record keeping; proofread and process documents like general correspondence, forms, memos, and documents from drafts, notes, verbal instructions; process applications, approved parking permits and licenses; collect fees and record

Evaluation essay of movie home alone Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Evaluation of movie home alone - Essay Example The Christmas mood begins with background music that reflects Christmas songs. Viewers therefore get a belief that that is where most focus of the movie will lie. However, a great suspense develops early in the movie when Kevin’s parents leave for Paris without him. More characters appear in the film when the parents of Kevin leave for Paris. Close ups are used to introduce the characters while mid shots are employed during conversations. A selection of natural dress code shows a normal family image, for instance the appearance of the mother of Kevin in a long dress shows that she is an elderly mother. The suburb Chicago shows that Kevin is from a rich family and the lighting further emphasizes the festive season. The acting was well done. The main actors are Macaulay Culkin, who plays the role of eight-year boy called Kevin and two burglars, Daniel Stern and Joe Pesci. In addition, the actors mind their language. This has made the suitable for all family viewing. The movie commences with Kevin’s family giving an impression of them as the main characters with Kevin as the protagonist because he is an only child. Even so, the story develops quickly with Kevin as the main character and more characters appear. Culkin had many scenes to play, which he did well. His high level of confidence and self-esteem is also a contributing factor to success of the story. The woman playing the role of Kevin’s mother uses little makeup. For that reason, she appears more mature with a motherly figure. This is further emphasized by her dressing code. The story line of the movie is just amazing. There is a striking balance between religion, family life and just some stupid ideas that bring out the comic feel of the movie. The family life is clear at the beginning of the movie when Kevin and the parents chat happily. Towards the end of the movie, there is an expression of socialization. This happens when

The significance of the lady in Black and her two Lovers Essay

The significance of the lady in Black and her two Lovers - Essay Example What Walker is also suggesting is that the feminist strivings are not exclusive of broader political seeking of equality. Indeed, the two causes are intricately connected and partly explain why Vyry and her two lovers are showcased in same scenes in the novel. (Graham 96) Apart from this symbolic display of solidarity, another reason why these characters appear together is to contrast their different mindsets and attitudes. In other words, there seem to be diversity of personality and character within the larger common objective of freedom. To illustrate, in one passage Innis Brown responding to his wife Vyry states â€Å"Just like you can make candles and soap and feather beds, rag rugs, and quilts, and spin and weave and sew, and cooking was your main job, I learned to do a lot, of things sides working in the fields." (Walker as quoted in Cash 78) The message here is one of establishing the dichotomy between the masculine and the feminine. The other dichotomies that these pairings bring out are those of â€Å"black versus white, rich versus poor, empowered versus disempowered, enslaved versus free†. (Beaulieu 15) Margaret Walker, writing in the middle of the twentieth century, factors an additional pair into the list, namely, legally enslaved versus legally free. One crucial way in which the genre of slave narrative is revised in Jubilee is the attention paid to the personal (especially the romantic) facets of Vyry’s difficult life. This is accomplished by showcasing the relationship between Vyry and her two lovers at several points in the work. Vyry’s loyalties are thoroughly tested as she is made to choose between â€Å"her loyalty to her first husband and her white family and loyalty to her second husband and her children. She is guided by her Christian ethics in arriving at a practical rather than radical resolution of the conflict.† (Bell 289) Her great virtues are best illustrated as she

Abu Dhabi Police Department Research Proposal Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Abu Dhabi Police Department - Research Proposal Example The trend for standardization and integration has been reflected through the compliance to the requirements, various benefits which are normally observed through the provision of greater conformity within an organization, its effectiveness, and the overall efforts of developing separate systems of management. The management systems are usually treated as autonomous functions within organizations/ institutions. However, most of the professionals tend to think that it is possible to bring together and harmonise the three management systems: OHSAS 18001 OHSMS, ISO 14001 EMS and ISO 9001 QMS. This paper will therefore focus on the various management practices in the police department of Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. In addition, a clear strategy for the implementation of an integrated system in the organization will be developed and outlined in the paper.... Abu Dhabi Police department is envisioned to become an effectual police force in the policing field which promptly responds to the needs of the society with a high level of training and integrity (Trent 1998, pp.32). In order to achieve the stated vision, the directorate is usually guided by a number of values which include: respect for human rights, honesty and integrity. In relation to this, the study will focus on finding out the quality management and the organization management. This will play a vital role in the development of approaches which will assist in the general performance of Abu Dhabi Police. 1.2 Statement of the Problem The Emirates population is expected to massively rise in the upcoming years. This is greatly attributed to the boom in the tourism industry. Therefore, crime rate is expected to go up as the population increases. Abu Dhabi police has established organizational change and quality management to deal with the expected rise in crime rate (Trent 1998). Despite the police department's involvement in quality management and organizational management, there have been limited suggestions / ideas on how to improve the general performance of the organization. 1.3 Purpose of the Study The study will access the quality management and change management in Abu Dhabi Police department. Having accessed the quality and change management, a number of recommendations will be provided in order to improve the overall performance of Abu Dhabi Police and ensure that it functions to the benefit of the general public. 1.4 Objective of the Study To find out the Quality management involved in Abu Dhabi Police department, To determine the change management involved in Abu Dhabi Police

Patsy Cline Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Patsy Cline - Essay Example The posthumous Patsy bears only a partial resemblance to the live Patsy, who we can now know only through interviews and pictures." (Jensen, 107) An analysis of what has happened to Patsy Cline's image over time reveals how femininity is constructed in country music and popular culture, in general. This paper, therefore, focuses on the life and music career of Patsy Cline in relation to her country music, which discloses the true merit of her music and answers the question what makes her so important a musical genius. Patsy Cline has been remarkably considered to be the most influential country musician of the last century, and her posthumous influence on the development of country music is even more significant. Her performance career started in the mid 1940s and came to a startling close with her murder in a plane crash in 1963. Patsy started her recording career in Nashville by the year 1955 and soon became a member of the Opry. Her rich tone and emotionally expressive bold contralto voice earned her a great status among her contemporaries. These qualities, accompanied by her image as the sole mover in the country music industry, made Patsy an international figure, and they also inspired several vocalists of different music genres. Therefore, the image of Cline as the most celebrated of the country musicians is categorical. She was a country pop star and her fame was established by the various performing on radio and television broadcasts etc. Patsy Cline has been a country artist who consisten tly fought the pop styling, and one of the major factors ensuring her success as a renowned musician is her desire to be... Patsy Cline has been remarkably considered to be the most influential country musician of the last century, and her posthumous influence on the development of country music is even more significant. Her performance career started in the mid 1940s and came to a startling close with her murder in a plane crash in 1963. Patsy started her recording career in Nashville by the year 1955 and soon became a member of the Opry. Her rich tone and emotionally expressive bold contralto voice earned her a great status among her contemporaries. These qualities, accompanied by her image as the sole mover in the country music industry, made Patsy an international figure, and they also inspired several vocalists of different music genres. Therefore, the image of Cline as the most celebrated of the country musicians is categorical. She was a country pop star and her fame was established by the various performing on radio and television broadcasts etc. Patsy Cline has been a country artist who consisten tly fought the pop styling, and one of the major factors ensuring her success as a renowned musician is her desire to be consistent with country style as against the trends of popular pop music of the time. Though her voice had been flat, rich and ‘pop’ sounding, she always chose to be a country singer, and her resentment of being forced into recording slower, more melodic material earned her the crown of country music.

TERMINAL 5 HEATHROW AIRPORT Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

TERMINAL 5 HEATHROW AIRPORT - Case Study Example that is normally associated with systems failure, human error as well as insufficient controls and procedures during business related transactions as well as the negative effects on reputation brought about by the inability to correctly implement the processing. (Loader, 2007) This risk can also be further subdivided into technology risk, operations risk, malicious risk, regulatory risk as well as reporting risk. The number of airline passengers as increasing globally at a rate of 5%. (IATA, 2008)This means that volume of baggage is also fast increasing at roughly the same rate. This will undoubtedly pose new challenges to many airline companies as well as airports. With baggage volumes and traffic ever increasing, this leads to stiffer security regulations as well as increases in cost pressures year after year. Due to these factors, baggage has become a much more critical factor before, during as well as after flights. This means that identification of baggage has to be reliable, accurate as well as economical in the long term. Several solutions and innovations have been introduced for this purpose like the Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) that is in the UHF range that offers the advantage of contact less writing as well as reading of bags tags. The terminal makes use of a system that has been manufactures by the Vanderlande industries. The aviation industry ships around two billion bags annually and the costs that the industry has to pay due to mishandles bags currently stands at about U.S$ 3.7 billion per year. This however excludes the costs due to delayed flights, refunds of the passengers’ parking fees that were necessitated by baggage delayed flights. If these were factored in, the costs would increase to more than US$4 billion annually. In the list of customer complaints, baggage problems are ranked as the second most common complaint. (U.S Department of Transportation, 2006) This therefore means it has a very significant impact on customer

International Marketing Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words - 5

International Marketing - Essay Example I propose that the company starts operations in Dubai and later set footprints in other cities like Abu Dhabi and finally cover the other Emirates that make up UAE. My long term goal is for the company to have a strong brand presence in the Middle East and ultimately become the market leader in this potentially rewarding market. My main reason for choosing Dubai as the international market of choice is because of its strategic location in the Middle East, physical environment, income levels, population and industry conditions. According to Gilligan and Hird (1996), a strong economy is essential for the success of a company in the international market. A keen look at Dubai reveals that the city is one of the richest and it is also emerging as one of the most glamorous. Income levels are quite high and this is backed by a strong economy with plenty of oil and gas reserves. The tourism industry in Dubai is also blossoming and the real estate market is emerging as among the best in the world. The influx of foreign professionals mostly from the western countries has made the Dubai market suitable for investment. High income levels in particular present a very good opportunity for the company to increase its sales. Disposable income is quite high and taking into consideration that bottled water is a luxury, then this presents a market opportunity not to be missed. Availability of manpower is another factor that influenced my decision. Professionals around the world have made Dubai their home because of the quality of life it offers. The company will therefore have a wide pool of professional to choose from. Walsh (1993) points out that availability of qualified and affordable labour is a key ingredient for the success of a company on the international scene. The cost of labour is considerably low because of the large number of migrants who go to Dubai in search of jobs. This means that Highland Spring ltd will have access to not only qualified labour but also at an

Business Analyst vs. Financial Analyst Essay Example for Free

Business Analyst vs. Financial Analyst Essay Analyst is an essential job in our society. They make analyses to help people figure out problems, and point out a positive way to solve problems. Analysts almost apply in every different professional area, such as political analyst, military analyst, and economic analyst. They analysis all information with their professional knowledge, and then translate a certain language which everybody can understand easily. For example, social analyst can use their knowledge to analyze current social problems and provide a useful analysis to government or city hall. Then, people can understand what happen to their society. Therefore, analyst is a necessary job for our society. For business corporations and companies, there are two important analysts for them. They are business and financial analysts. Many people, including employers and employees, dont know what these two analysts are exactly, and what different between them. However, they do exist, and they do help a corporation or company become more efficient and profitable. In other words, they play important roles in business activities. In general term, business and financial analysts have different definition for their position, different working area, and different training path, but they have the same goalto help users have better business condition. According to Julia Scholz, who is a successful business analyst, she said a business analyst is like a road trip planner, helping people plan their map and route (P.1). She says, a BA will help a user determine their wants, focus on a destination or desired outcome, outline possible maps of how to get there (P.1). Simply, business analyst is a communicator or translator to translate what employer wants to their employee. They gather all information from boss, employee, and outside world, and plan an efficient way to achieve their goal. It is not easy to be a good business analyst. Scholz lists some steps that her term and she do everyday to help successful project: 1.Listen to the users: the most important task for business analyst is find  out users demand. What do users desire for? What kind of outcome do they ask for? In what way they hope to achieve their goal? And some suggestion to their employee to improve whole companys operation. These things are important for business analyst making analysis. 2.Document: when a business analyst listens to their users, they need to record and write down all they get from users. They may use computer or recorder to record users words. Then when analysts do analysis, they can use this information quickly and easily. 3.Gather information: a good analyst also needs to do some outside research to determine all possible ways to achieve goal. They need to know current business situation and economic trend because outside activities would affect their analysis and strategy. 4.Translate and analyze: it is the key part for a BA. According to Scholz, a good analyst should be able to listen to the users, analyze their requests, document the requests and then communicate these requests to the development group in a way that the development group can understand (P.3). Most employers dont have chance to speak to employees directly. So the business analyst plays a channel to communicate both employers and employees, and to coordinate both side to achieve final goal. So the job of business analysts is not only making analysis but also communicating requests to each side. In conclusion, Scholz states that, BA is like a translator, able to communication in a users language and a developers language (P.3). So a business analyst should have good communication skill in order to translate users requests to developing department. A BA also may be involved in these area: Data Warehouse, E-Commerce Development, New application Development, New Business Development, Software Package Selection, Software Package Customization, Business Process Improvement (B2Ttraining program P.1). A BA needs to have certain knowledge of these areas to be able analyze all business event and situation. Financial analysts are very similar to business analysts. Financial analysts  also need to gather information and makes analysis. They also help a corporation or company makes more benefits and profits. However, financial analysts work in different aspect and way to achieve users goal. Generally speaking, their goal is to maximize the value of the company. They are just like a doctor. They examine the whole financial condition of a corporation or company, and figure out the virus (bad strategy or financial policy). Then making a good description to improve bad things (making better financial condition). The information that a financial analyst needs to know is like: working capital, account payable turnover, and EPS. A FA needs to know the potential of a company and forecasts the financial needs of the company. In advance, FA can make a correct financial plan to the company. Compare to business analysts, financial analysts consider more about the value of company stock. So when they make financial analysis, they will put market value and stock price at the first place. Financial analysts also require communication and computer skill. They sometimes need to present their analysis in front of the chiefs of all departments, and they also need to operate some accounting software to figure out the value of the company. Totally, the job of financial analysts is to examine the financial system of the company, analyze both good and bad side, gather outside financial situation, and make a forecasting financial plan. Similar to business analysts, they try to help a company operate more efficient and profitable. In fact, business and financial analysts are very similar. They both gather information from inside and outside the company. They both make analysis form the information, and help users to improve users business condition or business competence. They both use computer to help them achieve their tasks. However, they have different aspects to make their analysis. One is emphasizes on whole system of the company and plan a good road to achieve users requests; another is emphasizes on the financial condition of the company and make forecasting financial plan. Generally, they have different ways but the same goal. Reference: 1.Scholz, Julia. What do you analyze? One Analysts View http://www.google.com/search?q=cache:JRtp_0y5V4k:www.businessanalyst.com/BusinessAnalyst.htm+business+analysthl=zh-TW 2001/10/10 2.B2T training. What is a Business Analyst? http://www.b2ttraining.com/BAwhat.htm 2001/10/10. 3.Ross, Stephen A. Fundamentals of Corporate Financial. Toronto: McGraw_hill Ryerson 1999. P. 8-10.

BreadTalk Group Limited Essay Example for Free

BreadTalk Group Limited Essay Bread is one of the most popular staple in the Asian food culture. In the years, BreadTalk has successfully expanded their influence and reputation to 16 countries with more than 500 bakeries all around the world. BreadTalk is known for their see thru kitchen concept which enables their chefs a platform to showcase the skills and capabilities. This also allows interaction between customers and employees. A comprehensive analysis of the business strategy of BreadTalk Group Limited for the Thailand market revealed that its strategic objectives are aligned to the company’s vision and mission statement: Vision Establish BreadTalk as the foremost international, trend-setting lifestyle bakery brand | Mission Leading a new lifestyle culture with new, innovative changes and creative differentiation to craft products with passion and vibrancy | Innovative improvement and design of their products increased awareness of the brand, BreadTalk, complimented with the use of locations with high human traffic are increasing the market share of its bakery arm within the Thailand market. Lessons drawn from the analysis have shown that BreadTalk is consistently seeking improvement and reviewing their strategies to stay abreast. Being in a country with cultural differences in food preferences, working attitudes and lifestyle, BreadTalk’s adaptation and globalization strategies has proven to be effective. Success is reflected in the confident future investment promise and processes in place to overcome their strategic implementation issues. Introduction BreadTalk is aggressively expanding globally and leaves footprints in China, Indonesia and Thailand. With Singapore and China markets dominating the overall revenue for the bakery arm, a review on the business strategy for the Thailand market carried out. Strategies and implementation issues are identified to increase the market share and revenue for BreadTalk Thailand using the rational / formal model. BreadTalk’s company history and background is attached in Appendix A. With a strategic analysis on the external and internal environments using models / theories like PESTEL, Porters’ 5 Forces, analysis of turbulences and internal strategic competitive advantage, useful strengths and weaknesses, opportunities and threats are identified in this report. Strategic implementation and implementation issues are discussed further. Successful implementations are useful lessons for review. Strategic Analysis External analysis: General environment PESTEL model Political/Legal Thailand has faced various political/government instabilities, such as the Thai coup dà ©tat in 2006, the elections for a new constitution in 2007, a political crisis in 2008, and crackdowns and protests which involved violence from 2009-2010. Although the ruling of the July 2011 elections belonged to the Pheu Thai Party, the political situation was still shaky. There was a conflict between the â€Å"red shirts† (supporters of current ruling Pheu Thai Party) and â€Å"yellow shirts† (oppositions of the Pheu Thai Party), resulting in continuous tensions. All the bloodshed also damaged the economy, sinking the already suffering consumer confidence even more. Besides this matter, Thailands also having issues with its neighboring country, Malaysia. Both countries relationships have soured greatly because of the Pattani separatists’ issue, which involved the struggle of independence by the ethnic Malays in Southern Thailand. These incidents have raised concerns among foreign investors and manufacturers regarding Thailands political stability. Thailand has strict regulations when it comes to working terms and conditions. A proper visa must be applied from a Royal Thai Embassy, with some countries needing to obtain an entry visa, which allows a stay of 15 days upon arrival in Thailand. However, Singapore is one of the countries that could stay for 30 days without an entry visa, but must obtain an entry stamp on their passports. The disadvantage of Thailands employment regulation is that it is time consuming, expensive and has a tedious amount of paperwork. Economic Following the constant tremors in the economy in 2008 and late 2011’s Euro crisis, Thailand has suffered duly in retrospect. With a staggering 41.06% debt of Thailand’s total GDP January this year and an additional 2 trillion baht for the beginning of next year (Good only at borrowing jibe haunts Pheu Thai Party, 2012), the country has much to recover from. The nation’s currency, Thai baht, has also taken a beating from the economic crisis in 2008 and 2011, falling from a high of 43.6 baht in 2002 to 29.44 baht per 1 USD today. However, it is to be noted that Thailand has come a long way since its third world country days back in the 90s. It has reduced its poverty by a third, from 27% in 1997 to 9.8% in 2002, and even has a health care policy which covers approximately 70% of its citizens (Data Thailand). Countries surrounding Thailand portray a mixed basket of economy statuses. With Myanmar slowly opening its doors to foreign investors, and Malaysia running a high risk of going into debt (Budget 2013 proof Malaysia falling into debt crisis as income slows, says MP, 2012), Thailand has to weigh its opportunities and costs with great consideration in order to maximize its potential in this crisis-stricken economy. Social/Cultural Buddhism is the main religion in Thailand (about 85%) and it greatly influences the Thais’ working attitude such as respect and politeness, forgiving and thoughtfulness. Respect is also reflected in the country’s monarchy system with military-dominated hierarchy present in both the society and workplace (Bi, 2012). In addition to their religious beliefs, modern Thais also display patience and hospitality at work emphasizing positive outlook. Thais prefer to work in a group, with ample time for completion in social environment; isolating them will lead to stress and discomfort. They have great respect for age and authority, preferring obedience and tolerance to conflict (Gross, 2001). Thai cooking is under the influence from the Chinese from southern China, Indians nearby and Malays from the south; the main dietary staple is rice. Due to the social nature and friendliness of Thai people, dishes are shared and enjoyed together. They love to eat in groups and eating alone is considered bad luck. Thais are known to take 7 meals a day; besides breakfast, lunch and dinner, they ‘snack’ a lot, savouring snacks along roadside or marketplaces anytime. Bread is becoming popular due its convenience. Baked products are expecting an annual growth of 5-6% (Jitpleecheep, 2012). Technology According to Internet World Stats, Thailand is ranked 9th in 2011 amongst countries in Asia, in terms of number of Internet users. Currently the population of Thailand is at 66.7 million; the country has an Internet penetration rate of approximately 31%, which amounts to 20.7 million in 2011 (Singapore Management University, 2012). There is a growing percentage of advertising spend with more large firms diverting a proportion of their advertising budgets to online advertising (Appendix B). Amongst the Asia-Pacific countries, businesses in Thailand are relatively active on social media channels (Kemp, 2012). As enterprises tap on social media for their business, they play on the personal touch factor that social media is able to achieve. Social media inspires and influence the behavior of Internet users, such as purchasing a product, by stimulating and attracting them to participate in online activities (New Media Trend Watch, 2012). This participation makes the purchasing process more personalized, hence increases sales. Thus, if BreadTalk intend to increase their sales in the FB industry in Thailand, they could make use of the developing social media platforms to aid in publicising the brand and its products (MVF GLOBAL, 2012). In this case, it would be more effective and they can reach to a wider audience too, bringing BreadTalk to greater heights. Environment The Thai Government has been focusing on the social and economic development for the past 35 years. Nevertheless, over the past decade Thailand has been increasingly threatened by the problems of industrial waste, hazardous wastes, natural resources degradation and water pollution (Thailand Info : Economy, 2008). Thailand has been suffering the threat of floods in the recent years. This has caused a dip in their production of rice-their staple and in their tourism industry. During the times of floods, there was a scarcity of food supplies. According to the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment of Thailand (MNRE), since 1992 the Government has made protecting the environment one of its top priorities. Thailand can be described as a tropical and humid country throughout the year. They claim to have only two seasons, the wet and dry. The summer extends from March to June with a temperature of 320 C to 360 C and monsoon extends from July to October with temperatures averaging around 290 C (The Global Climate Change Regime, 2012). This climate is suitable for BreadTalk. The process of fermentation and baking of various types of breads needs a tropical environment. Extreme weathers would change the uniformity of the ‘raising process’ for the bread and its fermentation process. External analysis: Industry Related Porter’s 5 forces Threat of new entrants (HIGH) The threat of new entrants is high as barriers of entry are low due to the little regulations from the government, the low capital outlay as compared to other industries, low Research and Development costs, and it is likely a highly profitable market. Also, because food has always been popular with people, and people are always looking for something new and fresh, many food joints have been opening, resulting in high amount of entry candidates. What attracts consumers is the variety of food being offered, therefore BreadTalk can consider widening their variety of breads, or by coming up with new flavors seasonally so as to stay competitive with the new entrants. Bargaining power of customers (HIGH) Customers have a generally strong bargaining power due to the high competition in the Food Beverage (FB) industry. Should customers not be satisfied with BreadTalk’s provision of goods and services, they have the power to boycott and purchase from a different provider, causing huge losses to the company. BreadTalk has to constantly update itself on customers’ tastes and preferences to better cater to their needs. It should also focus on hearing what consumers have to say, to be able to meet consumers’ expectations. Bargaining power of supplier (LOW) The overall bargaining power of suppliers for the FB industry is usually low due to the similar quality of the products. Bulk purchases lead to economies of scale, further bring down the prices of the supplies. Suppliers of these FB ingredients are in abundance; many in the market that lead to price competition. However, the bargaining power of the suppliers may escalate due to climatic influence that may cause shortages in the supplies; the supplier may then choose to work with companies who are willing to pay more. BreadTalk has its advantage over the suppliers, as the ingredients and packaging material are normal goods that are available from many suppliers. Threat of substitutes (HIGH) The Food and Beverage market has a big industry span and goes a long way back into history, therefore the risk of substitutes for food is actually very high (Aswe Travel, 2011). The food vendors must take note of mutual substitution. Congruently for bread-wise, there is no need for customers to consume them, especially in Thailand where its unique food culture provides various alternatives like rice and noodles that can fulfill the same purpose altogether (Aswe Travel, 2011). Thus, there is a certain level of risk for BreadTalk’s expansion and they need to tackle into the eating habits of the population, in order to win them over. Overall, there is a high threat of substitutes in Thailand for BreadTalk. Competitive rivalry – price war, elasticity within the bread industry (HIGH) The Food and Beverage industry normally experiences intense competition. The bakery market in Thailand is increasingly growing since bread can be favored as substitute for rice. In the meantime, competitors may want to get advantage of this growing trend. With growing urbanization in Thailand, now comprising of 33% of the total population have been observed to move away from traditional open air markets to retail stores (Exporter Guide THAILAND FOOD BEVERAGE Market Profile, 2011). The competitors in this industry for BreadTalk can be roughly categorized into Cafà ©Ã¢â‚¬â„¢s Coffee shops, in-store shops in restaurants and hotels and open-air wet/flea markets. Recently over the past 5 years, there is an emergence of regional cafà © come bakery concept (Exporter Guide THAILAND FOOD BEVERAGE Market Profile, 2011). The main competitors of BreadTalk in Thailand are Ka-nom, U-Bake, Pee Pee Bakery and The Human Bakery. An analysis of the Porters’ 5 Forces reflected that despite the overall competition for BreadTalk within the industry being strong, BreadTalk is still able to sustain and achieve above average profitability due to the following: Turbulences Complexity BreadTalk is positioned at the â€Å"Moderately Complex Environment† due to the wide range of products and competitive substitutes available but low interconnectedness among the products, markets and competitors; the bakery market in Thailand is relatively small (Appendix C). Dynamism FB industry in Thailand is generally low dynamism and is said to be in a â€Å"static environment’; the intensity and frequency of change is minimal and not drastic for this industry (Appendix D). Predictability Besides the normal business cycle, other influences such as natural disaster eg flood and drought caused the environment to be unpredictable. Despite this influence, tourism is still picking up (ranking 39 in 2009 and 42 in 2008 (Blanke Chiesa, 2009)) and growth of private investment is healthy (East Asia Pacific Economic Update Navigating Turbulence, Sustaining Growth, 2011). Internal analysis: BreadTalk Strategic Competitive Advantage Consistent with the company business strategy, BreadTalk continues to seek competitive advantages (Loh, 2011) based on their unique: BreadTalk is consistently pushing out new products and upgrading of retail space to enhance customers’ experience. Their innovative achievement is strongly supported from top management to front-liners, starting from strategic planning by the top management, support from staff and feedback from customers, high quality control baking process and release of new products frequently. SWOT Analysis With the above analysis on the external and internal environment, the following SWOT is identified and a summary attached in Appendix E: Strengths BreadTalk has the capacity of preparing the raw material (dough) for all the outlets ensuring strict quality control and a team of innovative designer taking care of new product design and customer experience. Its unique branding and concept attract customers giving them new snacking experience at convenient locations. Weaknesses There is limited sales and marketing effort in place for BreadTalk leading to low brand awareness and no loyal customer base. Allocating 20% adaptation to local food culture may not be sufficient for the Thailand. Opportunities Increase in tourism business boost the growth of FB sector and Thailand being ranked no. 13 out of 133 countries who are like foreign visitors, is adjusting to accommodate the foreign visitors’ likes and dislikes (Blanke Chiesa, 2009).