Chunnel Project

Hlstorlcal background, overall objectives, political climate, and pre- feasibility studies. 2-Development-Overall planning, feasibility studies, financing, and conceptual design, 3-1mplementation-Detail design, construction, installation, testing, and commissioning. 4-Closeout-RefIection on overall performance, settlement of claims, financial status, and post-project evaluation. 1974- Initial tunnel ideas gather but abandoned. 1978-British & French discussions resumed. 83-Frensh & British banks & contractors propose tunnel scheme. 1984 British and French agree to common safety, environmental, and security concerns. 1. Please complete your evaluation of project management during this phase, using the following grid: Project Management Area Closeout Phase Scope Management Time Management Cost Management Quality Management HR Management Communication Management Risk Management Procurement Management Integration Management 2.Please highlight the major areas of strength In the management of this phase of he project: Scope Management 2 Communication Mangement 2. Please highlight the major areas of strength in the management of this phase of tOf2 the following grid: Project Management Area Time Management 3 Quality Management 4 HR Management 2 Communication Management2 Risk Management 2 Integration Management 3 Closeout Phase the project: 1. Please complete your evaluation of project management during this phase, using the following grid: Project Management Area Closeout Phase

The Cult of Lego

Legos have come along way from when they first started and they keep growing as they makenew sets and make the things you can create even more realistic. ‘LEGO' is an abbreviation ofthe two danish words â€Å"leg godt†, meaning â€Å"play well† which is their name and their ideal. Thelego group was founded in 1932 and has been passed down from father to son and is now ownedby Kjeld Kirk Kristiansen, a grandchild of the founder. Lego has come a long way from a smallcarpenter's shop to a modern, global enterprise which is one of the biggest producers of toys inthe world. The way legos interlock makes them unique and offers loads of possibilities and allyou need is an imagination. You may be thinking â€Å"hey what's so special about lego all they do ismake blocks†. Not even close lego has came a long way to where they stand today. Lego alsodidn't start off making these legendary blocks it was just an ordinary wooden duck that was madein a carpentry shop. By 1951 plastic toys accounted for half of the company's output, althoughsome people thought that the plastic toys wouldn't be able to beat traditional wooden toys. Thelego group made a separate operation named â€Å"Duplo† and were twice the size as regular bricksand were aimed at young children. The culture of innovation is that he knows people likebuilding things and when they do it makes them feel good and accomplished and he uses thisthinking to his advantage. Lego also hired creative and diverse people so his whole company isfilled with ideas that are limitless. The lego company is a family owned business and itsheadquarters are located in Billund, Denmark but also has offices and stores all over the world. Ithink that lego went through a horizontal integration just because of the fact that they went froma small shop to now what is one of the most powerful companies in the world. In 2015 Lego waslabeled as the most powerful company in the world stolen from ferrari which held it for 2 years.The thing that really pushed lego up to the top was the â€Å"Lego Movie† which helped with a lot of1global recognition. Legos are molded in a thermoplastic polymer, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene,legos are known for their durability. Legos are more precisely made than and iphone and that'swhat it takes to make a full-scale version of the X-Wing Starfighter or a 16-inch replica of theTaj Mahal. Legos are more popular today than they have ever been which is a surprise to some atthe company, since roughly a decade ago it was nearly bankrupt. People now can use the powerof the internet to create their own designs and go to the lego store to buy all the parts they needto create it. Lots of legos today also have flashing lights or battery powered motors so they candrive around by themselves. Lego is always coming up with new ideas on how to make theiramazing creation into a better version for every generation. The first big lego factory was outsideDenmark in the swiss alps. The family that owns Lego lives in Denmark which is why most oftheir plants are set up in Europe and Asia. The Danish are known for exporting a lot of things butlegos are definitely one of their most exported. In 2016 alone, over 75 billion of the colorfulplastic bricks were sold. Ole Kirk died in 1952, just as his son was on the verge of makinginterlocking which would increase creativity and sales in kids. The lego company also suffered alot of hardships along the way of trying to build one of the greatest toys to come to stores. Thesefires didn't stop much though it just meant that it was time to change some things and this iswhen they decided to change from wood to plastic. Today that decision means big business andthe LEGO group has built itself into an industry titan. But it would have never happened withoutthose simple bricks – or the fires that nearly destroyed a family's dreams three times over. LEGOwill most likely always be a lot of fun for the workers and for the kids that get to use them. LEGOS are going to be a big part of a lot of young kids childhoods and some more grownpeople because legos can be for all ages and thats what makes them so amazing.

Hunger Games Book Report Essay

â€Å"The Hunger Games† is a the first book in a fantastic series of three books written by Suzanne Collins. It takes you into the life of a scared but quick-thinking, brave girl named Katniss Everdeen who learns how to survive on her own from a very young age when her father died in a mining accident. From that day on, she took care of her little family (mother and little sister, Prim) as well as herself by hunting in the woods of District 12 everyday with her guy friend Gale (who might have a thing for her but no one really knows). District 12 was one of the twelve districts that made up the country of Panem. Panem was once the continent of North America. When an epidemic swept through the continent of North America, Panem was formed and, the people who lived under the rules set by the capitol did not like it. They rebelled against the capitol and lost. Now, every year, children’s names, ages 12 through 18, are put into a bowl and drawn out during a ceremony known as â€Å"The Reaping. † This is a dreaded time and no one wants to be a part of it because they know that if their names are drawn, it is almost like a death sentence. When a name is called, you are then taken and thrown into what is known as â€Å"The Hunger Games. † Our narrator, main character, and hero also known as Katniss Everdeen, offered herself as a tribute in place of her younger sister Prim in an effort to save her life. When her and Peeta Mellark (the boy tribute from district 12) were taken off to the capitol, they went through some pretty intense training and in the end, well, you’ll have to read the book to find out what happened but it was sort of an unexpected ending. This book was so good because it kept you on your toes the whole time. I would rate it a solid 9. 5. I gave it that high of a rating because, the unexpected seemed to happen a lot and things popped up all the time out of no where. The book also kept a good pace and there weren’t to many dull moments; there was just enough detail that you could picture what was going on in your head while the story kept moving. The only thing that I did not like about this book was the fact that it seemed almost too futuristic. Yes, it is true that the story takes place millions of years from our present day but, it seemed almost to realistic. Crazy is a good word that describes what some of the people acted like that lived in the capitol. In all though, I really did think that this was a very good book and I would suggest it to anyone who was considering reading it.

A Six Sigma Exercise Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

A Six Sigma Exercise - Essay Example The method of reaching the rating of one out of six which is considered as the lowest ranking is based on the DPMO calculation. The percentage of defects was 99.995%. Significantly high level of defects or very low level of success percentage is clearly an indication of the low quality control by ACME for its Jamaica based customer support programme. In other words, the defects per million opportunities and the percentage of defects can help the company to identify more precisely and accurately, its quality control or six sigma rating. High level of defects per million opportunities or high percentage of defects indicates that the six sigma rating is very low. The Mexico City is the capital of Mexico. Mexico City is considered as the federal independent entity within the Mexico, which is not part of any one of 31 Mexican States. It belongs to the Federation as a whole. Mexico City is believed to be the financial hub of Mexico. The Country’s largest city is Mexico City. It is also considered to be the most important political, cultural and educational center for the country along with the financial centers. Study on the culture of Mexico revealed that Mexican make several subdivisions within the nation. Mexican City is housed with small indigenous population. The culture of Mexico or Mexican City is regarded as the frontier culture. The political structure of Mexico is based on the seat of the power of the union. It did not belong to any particular state but to all. The City’s foreign district reports the production of more than 20% of GDP. It is considered as one of the most important economic, as well as, financial hub in Latin America. Study of the local market indicates that more than 50% of the population is Mestizo, which means the indigenous along with the Europeans. There are 68 different languages, which are considered as national languages in addition to Spanish.

System of Inquiry Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

System of Inquiry - Essay Example The CEO, the Board consisting of nine members, are the guiding lights for the company of sound ethical conduct. At the pinnacle of HP’s hierarchical order is HP’s Board that comprises nine members and the CEO The watch dog for ethical behavior is the Chief Ethics and Compliance Officer. He heads the Ethics and Compliance Committee. A Compliance Council has been constituted for risk assessment and to enforce development training. It is further assisted by Global SBC team. All production, management, marketing and sales heads are supported by the SBC team to help them do their activities in conformance to Standards of Business Conduct. HP Legal, HP Global Trade, HP Government Affairs, and HP Corporate Communications are other departments that lend lateral support to the company for good governance and ethical conduct. Ever since its inception in 1939, HP faced its worst ever ethical crisis in 2006. The Chairman, Patricia Dunn had to resign in wake of charges leveled against her, and some Board members, for spying (http://money.cnn.com/2006/09/22/technology/hurd_conference/index.htm). Although, the company is fast on the track to retrieve its lost reputation, criminal charges against her persist. If such a scandal could exist at the top, definitely it must have made ripple effect flowing downwards. The Board has asked its member G. Thomson Kennedy to review HP’s compliance to legal and ethical behavior. John Hoak has been administered the charge of Chief Ethics and Compliance Officer (http://www.hp.com/hpinfo/newsroom/press/2006/061012a.html). Bart M. Schwartz, a former U.S. prosecutor is leading an independent enquiry to review company’s ethics program. Effective checks and balances have been introduced in the top order to scrutinize their work. A worldwide initiative for training i nto ethics has begun and in 2006, 95% of employees of HP participated in it

Definition of terrorism in United States Research Paper

Definition of terrorism in United States - Research Paper Example United States Security Agencies define terrorism as the predetermined use of unlawful violence or threat of unlawful violence to infiltrate fear. Such acts are intended to intimidate or threaten governments or societies to bend towards the perpetrators goals that are generally ideological, political, and religious. Inside the above definition, three key elements are evident —violence, fear, and intimidation— with each element intended to produce terror in its victims. The United State Intelligence defines "Terrorism as unlawful use of force and violence against persons or property to intimidate or coerce a government, the civilian population, or any part thereof, in advancing of political or social demands† (Hoffman 37).Terrorism has ever been evolving. Its evolution should be closely monitored so that the means of countering it should be developed and made robust. The administration of the day has come with more effective and novel means of countering the vice th at pose a monumental threat to the citizen of United State both in the country and abroad. The intelligence, policy makers and political advisers come up with a for fold strategy of dealing with the menace. The strategy includes the following that apply to all citizens of the America: adhering to United States of America core Values, building security partnership, Applying CT tools, and capability appropriately and building a culture of resilience.

Alternative Solutions to Change of Google Corporation Essay

Alternative Solutions to Change of Google Corporation - Essay Example In 2004 a company that was already millions of dollars in revenue decided to go public to spur the company long-term growth potential. The Google IPO on April 30, 2004, raised $2.7 billion dollars (Monica, 2004). Today Google is the market leader in search engine industry with a 50% market share and also controls 70% of all internet based advertising revenue. During the 3rd quarter of 2008 Google generated $5.54 billion dollars in revenues (Google, 2008). Â  Google handle half the traffic over the internet today. Its information system has access to nearly 25 billion web pages. The information technology (IT) infrastructure the company utilizes is composed of 450,000 inexpensive servers spread around 25 nations worldwide. The system is very cost effective because not only is the company achieving cost savings in hardware, the software utilized to program the servers is a customized version of the freeware Linux operating system. Google’s superior MIS design provides the company a 3 to 1 cost advantage in comparison with its competitor in order to achieve a comparable computing power. There are three key software applications that optimize the efficiency of the system. The MapReduce software system provides a programming model that simplifies processing. The WorkQueue system allows grouping of queries and schedules to perform distributed processing, while the Google File System serves the function of safe proofing the data by k eeping copies of the data in several places to prevent loss of information in case part of the system crashes. Â  Google has excelled in the online advertisement industry. Google has a technology that creates a correlation between the contents of a page and the potential advertisers. The technology creates online ad campaigns that are more relevant than the competitors can provide.

Discuss the classification of the leukaemias and how this can be used Essay

Discuss the classification of the leukaemias and how this can be used to help treat this group of disorders. Use specific types - Essay Example After they immigrate into the peripheral blood, through circulation, they infiltrate into other tissues (Wu, 2010). There are several types of leukemia and based on the lineage of cell that is involved, they can be classified as lymphocytic or myeloid. They can further classified as acute or chronic based on the natural history of the disease. Thus, there are basically, four common types of leukemia and they are (Wu, 2010): 1. Acute lymphocytic (or lymphoblastic) leukemia (ALL) 2. Acute myeloid (or myelogenous) leukemia (AML) 3. Chronic lymphocytic (or lymphoblastic) leukemia (CLL) 4. Chronic myeloid (or myelogenous) leukemia (CML) This classification of leukemias is very important from treatment point of view, because; presentation, treatment and prognosis for each group is different. Acute leukemias: ALL and AML ALL and AML share many clinical features and hence they are discussed under the same heading. The presentation of these leukemias is abrupt and within 3 months of onset of malignant changes in the bone marrow and lymphoid tissue. Clinical features of these leukemias is mainly related to malfunctioning of the malignant cells, pancytopenia and leukostasis. Leukostasis is a condition in which the microcirculation in the tissues can get occluded by leukemic blast cells. It mainly occurs when the blast cells counts exceed 100 x 109 per liter.. Decrease in red blood cell counts leads to anemia which manifests as pallor, dysnea on mild exertion and easy fatiguibility. When there is thrombocytopenia or decreased number of circulating platelets, the patient presents as easy bruisability, petechiae and excessive bleeding. More often than not, bleeding is seen from oral mucosa, especially gums and gastrointestinal bleeding. The latter manifests as hematochezia, malena or hematemesis. In girls who are menstruating severe blood loss can occur. When coagulation defects are also concomitant, bleeding is severe warranting hospitalization and blood transfusion. Sponta neous bleeding can also occur in the lungs, central nervous system and other organs. Decrease in the macrophage and granulocyte count can cause increased risk of infection,, especially of the perirectal tissues, skin, gingival tissue, gastrointestinal tract, urinary tract and lungs. Pathogens which frequently contribute to infections in these patients are gram positive cocci, gram negative bacilli and candida species (Wiernik, 2003). Infiltration of lymphnodes, liver and spleen by leukemic cells leads to lymphadenopathy, hepatomegaly and splenomegaly. Organ infiltration is seen more commonly in ALL than in AML. In advanced stages, even other organs can also get infiltrated wtih malignant cells leading to abdominal fullness, nausea, early satiety and loss of appetite. In those with T-cell variant ALL, anterior abdominal mass can be there. Testicular involvement can also occur in ALL. Soft tissue masses of leukemic cells, also known as chloromas can occur in any location in the body. More than 50 percent of patients with acute leukemia present with bone tenderness due to expanding malignant cell mass. Enlargement of the lymph nodes near ureters can cause ureteric obstruction. Other complications include pyelonephritis, nephropathy and renal hemorrhage. Infiltration of leukemic cells into the subarachnoid space may present as leukemic

Work-Life Balance Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words - 1

Work-Life Balance - Essay Example Work-Life Balance As one of the CEOs has noted, people working for him need to have phones even in the bathrooms. Traditionally, business ethics is focused on the morality of action. Therefore, overwork and work-related stress caused by the lack of opportunity to spend enough time with family is the ethical problem which needs to be addressed. Mary in the mother of two small children and is the manager of the large department of the growing company. One day she faces the following situation: her children are sick, but she has to give the major presentation to 200 people who have traveled hundreds of miles to hear it. What should be done? The one may answer that Mary should rather take care of the children. While, most of the people would agree that the job will suffer if Marry blows this off. For most working men and women this situation is the reality, even in those companies which pay enough benefits for maternity leave and have other policies of flexible employment. Over the last 20 years, the hours people spend at workplace has raised steadily. According to the statistics, more than 40 percent of American employees feel that their workload in excessive. Moreover, the average working week (40 hours) does not provide sufficient income for the families. Another factor why people overwork is downsizing and the fear to lose the job. Downsizing has created the surplus in workload as well as increased insecurity – employees feel they need to do extra job or they will lose their place in the company. Such situations are morally questionable about the ethical right of employers asking the employees to do the extra job. Despite of the causes or motivators why people spend more and more time at work, finding the work-life balance has become the major ethical dilemma not only for working mothers, but also for the working husbands and fathers. Changes and Dilemma Resolution The ethical dilemma of work-life balance has been addressed by many organizations. In particular, the federal government of United States has introduced the flexible working hours and child care in 1996 (Deckman 1996). In 1996, the number of working mothers increased and organizations were forced to find the new ways to provide them with the opportunity to balance work and non-work priorities. The following changes were introduced into employment practices: flexible work schedules, on-site child care, flexible leave policies and other benefits. These were the first significant initiatives aimed at enabling employees to meet their family responsibilities. The special attention should be devoted to the flexible work schedules which were supposed to relief working parents from work-life balance ethical strain. First, the flextime means the system of work scheduling when the working day is split into two time periods: core time and flexible time. Employees are obligated to be at work during the core time and are accountable for the total number of hours scheduled to work (Deckman 1996). Unfortunately, there are very few studies available concerning the flexible scheduling benefits and even less studies addressing the impact of flextime on employee's family life. Employers might think that flextime is the solution for all employees in helping to balance work and life; nevertheless, the research indicates that there is only insignificant difference between the stress of parents who do and do not use the flexible work

Avaition law Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

Avaition law - Essay Example eferences confirm the significance of ALIs product and lend support to our belief that the Restatement (Third) will have a significant influence in establishing a more uniform national products liability law. The Restatement (Third) already is having a notable impact on the products liability jurisprudence of many states. The states treatment of the Restatement (Third) is grouped into three categories. The first category consists of those states that expressly have incorporated various sections of the Restatement into their law. The second category consists of states that expressly have rejected various provisions or principles of the Restatement. The final category consists of states that have cited and discussed the Restatement in a significant way, but whose treatment of the Restatement falls short of an express adoption or rejection. The issue before the Supreme Court of Iowa in Lovick v. Wil-Rich,3 was whether the trial court erred in its instruction to the jury regarding the defendant-manufacturers post-sale duty to warn. In concluding that the instruction was improper, on the grounds that the court failed to inform the jury of the â€Å"special† circumstances affecting the reasonableness of the manufacturers conduct, the Iowa Supreme Court expressly adopted Section 10 of the Restatement (Third), â€Å"including the need to articulate the relevant factors to consider in determining the reasonableness of providing a warning after the sale.† Although Section 10 was consistent, in principle, with Iowa law, the Iowa Supreme Courts adoption of Section 10 in full, and its corresponding rejection of an Iowa standard jury instruction, underscores the significance of the Iowa development. The second category consist of those states that expressly have rejected various aspects of the Restatement (Third). This group consists of Connecticut, Kansas, Missouri, Montana, New Jersey, and Tennessee. Although New Jersey also was one of the states in the first

Graphics page Essay Example for Free

Graphics page Essay Whether they are interested in tennis, if they are a fan and what events or players would they like to visit if possible. (Interests) Whether or not the person is interested in purchasing such a product that I will be making, and if so why not? * Do they have any suggestions or preferences in what they would like to buy or view from this merchandise? Why is this? * Do they appreciate merchandise such as posters and banners to be colourful, jazzy, plain or dark? The persons coloured and style preferences perhaps. Do they prefer products to have lots of text information or do they not? If yes, what should the content be about? E. g. ) The product or the purpose? Â  What sort of images and logos would they prefer to view on these pages, and in what background? E. g. ) Artistic, photographic, computerized, etc what will create the best effects for people to appreciate it and be attracted to what it is aiming to the audience. Â  What sort of advertisement methods would most attract them to the product either to purchase it or to view it even? Information such as this provided in the questionnaire results will be very important for me to analyse and use when designing and making my merchandise. I will definitely need to consider it, otherwise there is no point in making these products in such ways that will not attract people, please them or catch their interest to follow the purpose of the poster. The reason for making something is for it to appeal to peoples preferences and the purpose of my tennis poster is to attract people to view it and realise the development of the state-of-the-art tennis stadium. The merchandise acts as examples of what they can purchase at this newly proposed stadium and helps to promote generally. Therefore, I will need to consider aspects such as colour, texture, size, special effects aswell as the type of imagery, content and textual styles I should use in order for it to be portrayed as worthwhile. Therefore the research is essential for this practical area of my project to be good and relevant.

American Writers Essay Example for Free

American Writers Essay

Pestle analysis of the Wood Group

Pestle analysis of the Wood Group The wood group was founded in 1912 by Wood and Davison which the company used for ship repair and marine engineering firm to services the fishing fleet. In 1970s oil gas reserves were discovered in the North Sea and presented an ideal opportunity to convert marine engineering experience into engineering and support services. During the late 1990s Wood Group Engineering (North Sea) became a market leader in the North Sea providing integrated engineering, operations and maintenance services to BP, Shell, Talisman, Amerada Hess, BG, Enterprise Oil and ChevronTexaco. The company now is a leading independent services provider for the oil gas and power generation markets. Currently the main focus of the company is on the environment by establishing the renewable energy services group and expanding their scope of operations within the alternative energy industry. Wood group also known as John wood group is an energy services provider. The company is organised into to three divisions: 1. Engineering and production facilities 2. Industrial gas turbines overhaul and repair services for oil gas and power generation services. 3. Production support The core strengths of wood group are: facility operations maintenance, field service of pumps, wellheads and valves clients, procurement construction management, deepwater topsides, rotating equipments and power solutions, and renewable energy. The wood group operates mainly in Europe and North America. It is headquartered in Aberdeen and employs about 29,000 worldwide and operating in 50 countries. In 2009 the wood group recorded revenues of $4,927.1 million, the operating income of $298.5 million and the net profit of $164.2 million. Wood Group vision is to be a leading global energy services provider. The company global reputations has been built upon decades by offering a broad range of integrated services across the asset lifecycle and successfully managing the most complex engagements for their clients. They consistently seek to provide services and products that are recognised as market-leading and attempt to exceed their customers expectations and deliver superior returns. Wood group strategy is to achieve long-term sustainable growth by adding value to their customers operations with world-leading, highly differentiated products and services. PESTLE PESTLE analysis describes the macro-environmental factors used in the environmental scanning components of strategic management. It can be use for reviewing a situation, direction of a company, a marketing proposition, or an idea. The analysis is a useful tool for taking advantage of the opportunities and reducing the threats. Without knowing what external factors affect the organisation, it is difficult to manage the business in an efficient manner. Figure 1: Macro-Economic Environment Summary of PESTLE: Political World energy product markets have been increasing because of the threat of geopolitics instability. Due to Co2 emission, government has set pressure on industry to improve and produce more sustainable form of energy There are trading polices with certain countries Restriction to import and export to certain countries Restriction doing business with certain countries. Fines for industry that pollute the environment. Government taxes and price controls Economics Alternative high -quality energy technology increases the companys revenue as customers seek for less greenhouse gas emissions Companies benefit producing certain products from developing countries due to its cheaper labour cost. Market is unstable as world economy is coming out of a world recession Global economies are expected to grow within few years and energy demand will grow again. Social/culture Lately the nation has become more concern about the environment and their view has been more encouraging for renewable energy product. Life expectancy is relevant to the companys labour force. Company benefit in countries with higher life expectancy. Health workplaces for oil and gas industry services are essential for long term success. Technological Renewable energy technologies have been increase to reduce the fossil fuels. E.g. Technologies such as wind power, tidal wave, hydroelectricity etc, Many governments are providing tax advantages and other subsidies to make alternative energy sources more competitive against oil and gas. Lots of research and development have taken place to promote further renewable energy. Legal The policy includes strong new safety standards for offshore drilling including demonstrations of ability to respond to future blowouts. Heavy penalties for safety violations. Carbon taxes i.e. penalties polluting the environment at a certain level. Legislative measures are used in order to force business into behaving in a more environmentally sound manner Environmental Due to concern over the risk of global warming, a number of countries have adopted regulatory frameworks to reduce greenhouse gas emissions High quality technology been research for better alternative energy performance Industries been using program to identify ways to reduce carbon by: managing waste more efficiently, using piloting carbon footprint measurements and exploring potential solutions for saving energy. Description and detailed information of PESTLE are found in Appendix (A). 5 forces analysis 5 forces of model analysis is commonly used tool for competitive environment and its attractiveness of a market. Figure 2- 5 forces of analysis: (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9lueEJ400MrtRHYwf1jaRH4DK0DfSW7VesQjRXYeprtMY9syAk4nshdWtT6d5_9vn3WXaonPuQU_iDCGQvVL1KUvk-vtzk07Hrh6uE5a6X2wdKx1XMmrIIewHRqbDXThPRXFl6gHoq1bW/s1600/porters-five-forces2.jpg) Barriers to Entry (High) This force describes the level of entry of other companies to enter this type of industry. If the entry of the company is high the company would lose it profitability. Barrier to entry to these type of industry are high due to: Large access to the suppliers and distributors ensuring widespread energy provision. High technology cost Dominated by major players Mature market Strict government policy and environment regulation requirements to operate in oil and gas services industry. Large economies of scale required to achieve cost leadership which is essential in energy provision. Large capital requirements to set-up operations Importance of ethical brand identity because of nature of market (loyalty as a barrier). Existing players have close customer relations .e.g. from a long-term service contacts. High proprietary learning curve due to technological focus on alternative energy industry. Competitive Rivalry (medium) This force describes the intensity of competition between existing companies. Within the oil gas and energy services provider the competition rivalry between existing players are medium because of: High exit barriers. Not many major players in this type of industry. High capital costs Companies with similar strategies High industry growth as alternative energy is vital for the long term future of the industry. Various rivals in rationale for strategies to invest and enter industry. High switching cost Threat of substitute (low) Threat of substitute exists if there are alternative products with lower prices of better performance parameters for the same purpose. This would reduce the demand for a particular product and therefore would be a threat of consumers switching to alternatives. Threat of substitute is low because lack of alternative renewable energy and only large industry can afford the renewable energy products. Threat of substitute would be high if a company provides the latest technology and specialised services. Bargaining power of buyers (low) Bargaining power of customers determines how much customers can impose pressure on margins and volumes. The buyers for energy service industry hunt for excellent quality product but with lower prices and for a better contract term. Bargaining of power for these industries is low because: The brand loyalty is high Availability of substitutes is low Buyer incentives is high, in terms of tax breaks and energy provider buy-backs Buyers volume are low Low bargaining force of buyers Depends service standards Low elasticity Switching to alternative product is difficult Bargaining power of suppliers (high) Bargaining of supplier is the input required in order to provide the goods. The bargaining power of suppliers is high because: The market is dominated by few large suppliers The switching cost are high There is not much substitute for providing field service of pumps, wellheads, rotating equipments, power solutions, renewable energy etc. The energy services are mostly dominated by major companies. For these industries large amount of capital investment required significantly to reduces the number of companies and increase the power of existing players in the industry. The suppliers in UK are threatened by large companies able to source their product abroad at cheaper deals. Appendix (A) -PESTLE Political The oil and gas services industry has to follow a string of both provincial and federal government regulations when it comes to the production of energy resources. There are potential fines and sanctions that can be set by various governmental. Wood group operating in a globalized environment with industries around the globe (now operates in 46 countries globally in continents such as Australia, Europe, Middle East and the U.S.); its performance is highly influenced by the political and legislative conditions of these countries when it comes to production of energy resources. Their operations can adversely affect by political or regulation developments which are: Access limitations A number of countries limit access to their oil and gas resources, or may place resources off-limits from development on the whole. Many countries also restrict the import or export of certain products based on point of origin. Fines There could be potential sanctions and fined by the governments if they dont follow their legal procedure. Government wants to make sure their product is environmentally friendly. Restrictions on doing business As a British company, wood group is subject to laws prohibiting British companies from doing business in certain countries, or restricting the kind of business that may be conducted. Regulatory Even in countries with well-developed legal systems where Wood group does business, they remain exposed to changes in law that could adversely affect their results, such as increases in taxes or government royalty rates (including retroactive claims); price controls; or other laws that increase their cost of compliance. Economics Economic factors are of concern to wood group, because they are likely to influence demand, costs, prices and profits. One of the most influential factors on the economy is the global oil market prices that are primarily influenced by demand and supply forces. Supply shortage causes an upward movement in the price pressure. This may perhaps be due to factors such as: Unplanned refinery shortage Unexpected demand increases Pipeline problems Companys revenue will increase if they provide good quality sources of alternative energy as government seeks environmentally free energy source. Market is unstable as world economy is coming out of a world recession and lower oil and gas prices contributed to a reduction in global E P expenditure of around 15% in 2009. However global economies are expected to grow within few years time and energy demand will grow again. Social/cultural The company involves in many countries where population age, health and attitude vary. By identifying differences and similarities in culture to gain a better understanding of the culture issues related to the industry. Lately the nation had become more concern about the environment and their view has been more encouraging for renewable energy product. Health and safety are one of the main goals of wood groups business principles. Achieving and maintaining high standards of performance in health and safety plays an integral role in the sustainability of their long-term reputation and success. As health is part of wood groups vision, their goal is to improve the quality of occupational health management by: Maintaining a healthy workplace Controlling more effectively the health risks arising from their activities Promoting the benefit of healthy lifestyles for their employees via campaigns and health fairs Life expectancy is relevant to the companys labour force. In developed countries their life expectancy are high and therefore the work force labour would be greater compare to the developing countries. Technological Renewable energy technologies have been increase to reduce the fossil fuels. Many governments are providing tax advantages and other subsidies to make alternative energy sources more competitive against oil and gas. Governments are also promoting research into new technologies to reduce the cost and increase the scalability of alternative energy sources. Wood Group delivers solutions to maximize the availability of wind turbines, wave energy systems and other renewable energy projects. Wood Group is expanding its reach into the renewable energy industry and offers a dynamic set of specialized technical consultancy services to meet the needs of their global customers. Wood Group is the worlds leading solution-independent engineering and management services provider for subsea developments and pipelines. Their reputation is built upon strong technical excellence and efficient project delivery. Wood group are technology leaders in several areas such as cryogenic pipelines, remote sensing, pipeline stabilisation and flow assurance. Legal Various government legislations and policies have a direct impact on the performance of Wood Group. National governments are concern with the environmental issues so therefore legislative measures are used in order to force business into behaving in a more environmentally sound manner. The policy includes strong new safety standards for offshore drilling including demonstrations of ability to respond to future blowouts and heavy penalties for safety violations. Environmental Due to concern over the risk of global warming, a number of countries have adopted regulatory frameworks to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. These include carbon taxes, increase efficiency standards and incentives for renewable energy. These requirements could make Wood Group products more expensive and reduce demand for hydrocarbons, as well as shifting hydrocarbon demand toward relatively lower-carbon sources such as natural gas. Wood group has attempted to minimise adverse environmental impacts for their operations. In 2009, they introduced a carbon footprint pilot programme to help a better understanding of carbon management and identify ways to reduce carbon use throughout their operations. The program includes managing waste more efficiently, piloting carbon footprint measurements and explore potential solutions for saving energy. http://www.economywatch.com/energy-economy/crude-oil-prices.html http://www.investegate.co.uk/Article.aspx?id=20100302070000P5044 APPENDIX B 5 forces Barrier to entry (high) There are many oil gas industry services companies in the world, but barriers to enter to these types are enough to prevent the serious companies. Barriers to entry are high due to the high capital cost, significant regulatory environment and existence of scale economies are required to operate within the industry. Recently an oil and gas service industry is growing at a very strong rate which is attractive to new entrants as alternative energy is essential at this time of the world. However due to present economic difficulty has contributed a large decline in attractiveness in these industries which deterrent the potential entrants. To maintain with the leading players in the industry strong research and development capability is required. http://energybusinessdaily.com/power/barriers-of-entry-into-the-energy-industry/ Competitive Rivalry (medium) Analyzing an energy company it is really important to look at the particular region in which the company operating. The customers can choose their product by companies services standard and speed of delivery of their product. Technology can change the nature and the basis of rivalry among existing competitors in several ways. It can dramatically modify the cost structure and hence affect pricing decisions. The role of technology in product differentiation and switching costs are also important in rivalry. Another potential impact of technology on rivalry is through its effect on exit barriers. Wood group rivalries are Aker Solutions, AMEC, KBR, Technip, Worley Parsons, and Baker Hughes. Wood Group is the leading oil and gas services in the North Sea. (ref). Wood Group global reputation has been built by successfully managing the most complex engagements for their customers, offering a wide range of integrated services across the asset life has noticeably increased the profitability of Wood Group business. http://www.woodgroup.com/about-us/doing-business-with-us/pages/default.aspx Threat of substitute (low) The threat of substitutes for energy services are low as they are generally gas, wind power, solar power, coal and hydroelectricity. Therefore they are not much substitute for renewable energy and only big company can have those products due to a very high capital cost. The threats of substitute of these types companies are commonly with those who offer better technology and specialised services such as directional drilling. (http://www.investopedia.com/features/industryhandbook/oil_services.asp) Bargaining power of buyers (low) The bargaining power of buyers for Wood Group has increased by developing strong relationships by providing reliable project delivery and cost-effective. Their success in these areas is established by the continuing relationships with the integrated operators, national oil companies, independent operators and power companies throughout the world. http://www.woodgroup.com/about-us/doing-business-with-us/pages/default.aspx Bargaining power of suppliers (high) The energy services are mostly dominated by major companies. For these types of industries large amount of capital investment required significantly to reduces the number of companies and increase the power of existing players in the industry. The oil and gas services suppliers in UK are threatened by large companies able to source their product abroad at cheaper deals.

Comparing Apocalypse Now and Heart of Darkness :: Compare Contrast Comparison

Comparing Apocalypse Now and Heart of Darkness Francis Coppola’s movie Apocalypse Now was inspired by the world famous Joseph Conrad novel Heart of Darkness. A comparison and contrast can be made between the two. Both have similar themes but entirely different settings. Heart of Darkness takes place on the Congo River in the Heart of Africa, while Apocalypse Now is set in Vietnam. "Heart of Darkness , which follows closely the actual events of Conrad's Congo journey, tells of the narrator's fascination by a mysterious white man, Kurtz, who, by his eloquence and hypnotic personality, dominates the brutal tribesmen around him. Full of contempt for the greedy traders who exploit the natives, the narrator cannot deny the power of this figure of evil who calls forth from him something approaching reluctant loyalty."[1] The main characters in both have the same general personalities but have different names. Of course, Kurtz is Kurtz, Willard parallels Marlow, and the American photojournalist corresponds to the Russian Harlequin. Willard is a lieutenant for the US Army and Marlow is a captain of a steamboat of an ivory company. The first images of Willard and Marlow differ to some degree. The movie begins with Willard lying in an apartment room lost from reality with the song ‘The End’ playing by The Doors. He is haunted by his earlier deeds and he is getting very drunk. Willard smashes the mirror while fighting himself and cuts his hand. Marlow is portrayed as a wanderer of the sea. The narrator described him to somewhat of a hero. Their mission is to find Kurtz and take him down at all costs. In both stories Kurtz is a psychotic rebel, worshipped as a god, who threatens the stability of his original unit, but in one it is an ivory trading company and in the other it is the US Army. Kurtz, who had begun his assignment a man of great idealism and the highest morals, had become strangely savage. Tribes of natives worship the man who lives in a hut surrounded by fence posts topped with recently acquired human skulls.

Comparing Jonathan Swifts Gullivers Travels and Terry Gilliams Adventures of Baron Munchausen :: comparison compare contrast essays

Comparing Jonathan Swift's Gulliver's Travels and Terry Gilliam's Adventures of Baron Munchausen      Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The tales of Gulliver's Travels, by Jonathan Swift, is a well known story.  Ã‚   For more then two and a half centuries, Gulliver's Travels has been read by children for pleasure.   Terry Gilliam's "The Adventures of Baron Munchausen" is much the same.   It can be compared to Gulliver's Travels in many ways.   "The Adventures of Baron Munchausen" has been given the subtitle "Gulliver Revived" for the following reasons; the adventures both Gulliver and Munchausen partake, political hierarchy, and satire.      Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The adventures Gulliver experienced were much like those of Baron Munchausen. The adventures of Munchausen, as well as the adventures of Gulliver, were very outrageous.   The stories described by both are hard for the reader to believe.   Although very entertaining, they are so farfetched that one would find it difficult to consider as true.      Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Baron started off by telling his tales as he remembered them.   He took off in his hot air balloon in search of his magical friends.   He first went to the moon to look for Berthold.   This was much like Gulliver's travels to Lilliput, however, Gulliver did not go there intentionally. Once on the moon, Munchausen set out to look for Berthold.   He discovered many things in his search.   While being locked up for trying to romance the queen, Munchausen accidentally stumbled upon Berthold.   He then moved on to search for the next of his companions.   Munchausen fell off of the moon into a vulcano where Vulcan, who was a Greek God, lived.   He then sat down to drink tea with Vulcan and discovered that Vulcan's servant was none other then Albrecht.   While in the home of Vulcan, Munchausen was introduced to his wife, and fell in the love with the sight of her.   Vulcan saw this, disliked it very much, and became jealous.   The same thing happened to Gulliver, who had many enemies in Lilliput.   Flimnap, Treasur er of the Realm, long suspected, with absolutely no grounds, that Gulliver was his wife's lover, "This Lord, in Conjunction with Flimnap the High Treasurer, whose Enmity against you is notorious on Account of his Lady" (Swift 56 ).   Gulliver's enemies plotted against him, and accused him of treason.   Gulliver then fled from Lilliput.

The Manicure - A Psycho-social Experience Essay -- Exploratory Essays

The Manicure - A Psycho-social Experience There’s nothing like Strawberry Champagne or Park Avenue Orchids to let the world know that you want to have fun. Peppermint and Funshine Pink exude youthful innocence while Chinese Red is downright sexy. Black Cherry adds a bit of serious sophistication to an already irresistible demeanor. And for those more mellow moods, Grand Canyon Sunset and Beach Blanket Mauve are sure to have a soothing impact. It’s true. Nail color can mirror the inner feelings and emotions of the person wearing it. In fact, there is an entire psychological dimension to nails—mental health being a primary reason why people get manicures. Few people will admit to getting their nails done solely for hygienic purposes. My purpose for getting my nails done is two-fold. Getting a manicure once a month keeps my nails healthy and gives my hands a softer and cleaner look, even when my nails are not polished. Besides that, though, it’s a relaxing and fun gift I give to myself. I figure that if I don’t spend $15.00 a month on myself, who will? People are constantly telling me that getting a manicure is a waste of time and money and that I could do my nails myself and donate to charity the money I â€Å"waste† each month. I’ll give twice as much money to charity, but I refuse to give up this precious monthly ritual. I am not the only one guilty of indulging in this ritual. Along with my fellow â€Å"manicurees,† I have made a personal investment in a billion-dollar business that has swept the U.S. in recent years. Each day, this growing sector of the personal service industry is responsible for making dozens of hands and people look and feel simply divine. The practice of nail co... ...o me. My nails looked fine; in fact, they looked great. But that wasn’t the point. The point was I didn’t feel relaxed, pampered, special, and great—like I usually did after a manicure. Manicures are all about looking great and feeling great. Base coat is not essential, and having your arms massaged is truly a luxury one can do without. Manicurists are paid to give their client a manicure, but in addition to the manicure the client receives an experience which provides an opportunity to relax, gossip, tell someone her problems, or do whatever she feels like doing. Red tips at the Indus Valley, polishing powder in Paris, liquid nail polish in New York, Fire and Ice across America, and nail salons in suburban towns all have one thing in common. They are all about doing something extra for yourself. Great looking nails aren’t a necessity; they’re a luxury.

Athenian Artistic Performances Were They a Form of Propaganda Essay

The â€Å"glory that was Greece† reached its height in 5th century BCE in Athens, under the leadership of Pericles. He opened Athenian democracy to the ordinary citizen, was responsible for the construction of magnificent temples and statues on the Acropolis and he, in effect created the Athenian empire. The definition of propaganda is â€Å"the planned use of any form of public or mass-produced communication designed to affect the minds of a given group for a specific purpose, whether military, economic or political† (Linearger, p. 39, 1954). This has connotations of dishonesty and while people assume it is a modern phenomenon, its roots go back much further. The question is however, was propaganda rife in 5th century BCE Athens and if so, was it the driving force whether explicitly or not behind many of the public displays? A funeral oration or epitaphios logos is an official speech delivered at a funeral. The epitaphios is regarded as a virtually unique Athenian concept, although early elements of such speeches exist in the Epic poetry of Homer and in Lyric poetry of Pindar; in addition modern parallels have been drawn between Lincoln’s Gettysburg address and Pericles. When Pericles gave the epitaphios for Athenian soldiers who had been killed in the first year of the Peloponnesian War. He took the opportunity to not only praise the deceased, but Athens itself, in an oration which has been both praised as enshrining the archetypal democratic system and condemned as barefaced propaganda. In Thucydides’ book History of the Peloponnesian War, Pericles’ Funeral Oration is a powerful rhetorical piece. In addition it is important evidence for the study of the Athenian sense of identity and the way they represented themselves and others. It eloquently discusses the ancient democratic model and the picture it portrays serves as a prototype for democratic states today (Abbott, 1970). Thucydides specified a man would be chosen to make an ‘appropriate speech’ i. e. it matched formulaic prescriptions of the epitaphios, which according to Edinger, â€Å"consisted of a number of recognised topics: praise of the dead, praise of the ancestors, praise of the city, consolation of the families of the dead.

Mahatma Gandhi Essay

One of India’s most important men in history was Mahatma Gandhi. In this interpretation I wish to discuss Mahatma Gandhi’s writing’s on India’s Independence. As discussed in â€Å"Indian Home Rule† written in 1909. Born Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi but known as Mahatma Gandhi lived from the year 1869 to the year 1948. He was the primary leader for India’s independence and one of the most successful users of civil disobedience in history. He was a spiritual and political leader in India, and he used his position and voice to make his country better. Mahatma Gandhi believed in satyagraha or † resistance through mass non-violent civil disobedience. Satyagraha remains one of the most potent philosophies in freedom struggles throughout the world today,† (bio.com) . Gandhi spent most of his life fighting for Indian Liberation from outside influences and he was assassinated trying to stop a Hindu-Muslim conflict by a Hindu fanatic on Janua ry 30, 1948. His death was unfortunate but he is remember by the world as one of the most successful spiritual leaders. Gandhi’s most fundamental criticism of British rule in India lies in the fact modernization that has been incorporated into their society by the British has caused India to turn away from their founding principles and religion. Mahatma Gandhi mentions that his people â€Å"should set limit to worldly ambition..’ and ‘make religious ambition be illimitable,† (Strayer, p. 920). This thought reflected his belief that the British concern was merely worldly ambition and that was not what his country should have set their sights upon. In his work, Gandhi defines civilization in his country’s sense and the British’s definition of civilization both of which differed dramatically. Gandhi’s concept of civilization center around a simple lifestyle not dependent on modernization and industrial characteristics. He believed civilization was their past lifestyle before railroads and British imperialism where his people lived in huts and plowed their o wn land the same way as their previous fathers did. His definition of British civilization was highly diluted and biased when he lists their idea of what it is. His definition of their civilization mentions â€Å"women who should be queens of households, wandering in the streets or slaving away in factories’, men being ‘enslaved by temptations of money and the luxuries that it buys’, and ‘that their business is not to teach religion† (Strayer,  p. 920). He goes on to say that their civilization will eventually be self destroyed whereas India’s will just keep continuing. Gandhi reconciles with the idea of India as a single nation even though the obvious religion division between Hindus and Muslims because he is speaking merely on India versus outsiders, not in any way distinguishing India as having separate divisions within itself. Gandhi seeks a future where India is that of its native culture handed down to them. Not in anyway seeking the advice of outsiders, yet instead living as they did in the past and sticking instead to elevate others moral being. With Gandhi’s ideas, he probably met cri ticisms from India’s increasing nationalist politicians who did not want to go back to the old way of life and who loved the power they gained from the British. Mahatma Gandhi said that the tendency of Western civilization is to propagate immorality. I think he says that because the history of Western Colonization is that of spreading their culture and way of life wherever they travel, and he feel that their culture is immoral and corrupted. I think it is impossible for colonialism to be moral because more times than not the outsiders were intruding upon the natives and causing a severe disruption to their lifestyles that probably resulted in their demise or downfall. The history of colonialism does not lend itself to being a moral topic. Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi. (2014). The Biography.com website. Retrieved 04:39, Jul 27, 2014, from http://www.biography.com/people/mahatma-gandhi-9305898.

Locker Room Talk Essay

Page 1 Locker Room Talk Ethical Case April 18, 2010 Page 2 The Locker Room Talk Ethical Case outlines a situation that is an ethical dilemma for CPA Albert Gable who has performed personal financial planning for Larry and Susan Wilson. The Wilson’s, in their discussions with Mr. Gable regarding their personal finances, mentioned that in the past they have had marriage problems but have worked through the problems and are not seeking a divorce. Gable and the Wilson’s became personal friends due to the relationship built during their personal financial planning. Mr. Gable also performs the annual audit for one of the largest banks in the town where they all live. The sample pulled for the audit at the bank included the Wilson’s loan information. While performing the audit, Mr. Gable discovers information on the Wilson’s loan that does not coincide with the information given to him during the personal financial planning. Mr. Gable is concerned and addresses the discrepancy with a loan officer but did not confide to the loan officer that he was also their personal financial planner. The loan officer confided in Mr. Gable that Mr. Wilson was setting up his business to divorce his wife without any compensation. This situation puts Albert Gable in a situation with a conflict of interests. His personal financial client is also a client of the bank where he performs the annual audit. The information the Wilson’s provided to him during their personal financial planning conflicts with the information provided on loan documentation at the bank. Albert Gable needs to determine the best course of action to take in this situation. The Stakeholders The stakeholders involved are: Page 3 1. Albert Gable – As the CPA, his professional business ethics are at risk and his personal reputation is on the line. He also has a large bonus weighing on his decision. 2. Mrs. Wilson – She has the understanding that her marriage is not at risk and the financial planning is for the benefit of her and her husband for their future. 3. Mr. Wilson – If he is not being honest with his wife and is planning on divorcing her, the information that Albert has uncovered during the audit could create problems for him. . The loan officer – the loan officer that shared Mr. Wilson’s personal information with Mr. Gable. 5. The bank – the relationship Mr. Gable had with the Wilson’s as personal financial planner was not disclosed to the bank and is a conflict of interest. Course of Action The best course of action that Mr. Gable should take is to meet with the Wilson’s and explain that he cannot continue w ith their personal financial planning. He should have them seek out another financial planning firm to complete their personal financial plans. He should explain to them that he completes the annual audit for the bank and during the audit he discovered discrepancies with the loan information and the bank statements provided to him to prepare their personal finances and due to the discrepancies he feels it is necessary to remove himself as their personal planner. By removing himself as the Wilson’s personal financial planner, this eliminates the conflict of interest with the bank audit. By informing the Wilson’s they need to locate another Page 4 irm and cannot use the CPA firm he is partner with for financial planning removes all conflict business and personal and maintains business and personal ethics. Furthermore, he needs to notify the bank of the conflict with the Wilson account and that he will not be able to conduct an audit of their accounts due the relationship that was initially formed with the personal finance planning. By following the above steps he protects the clients, the bank and upholds his pro fessionalism and his business ethics. Impact to Stakeholder The deontology approach was used to determine the course of action. This approach to ethics emphasizes doing what one should do in accordance with rules, obligations and/or ethical principles of the profession. The impact of the decision could cost Mr. Gable the banks account but if he would have acknowledge upfront his knowledge of the Wilsons prior to beginning the audit on their loan documents the situation could have been diverted. He is also losing a client, the Wilson’s due to the bank audit and the review he completed of their loan documents. If he would have acknowledged to the bank and had the file removed from the audit all of this could have been avoided. Mr. Gable will need to take the time and explain to his client the Wilson’s but he needs to keep it at a professional level and not discuss what was discovered only that it is conflict of interest. Conclusion Mr. Gable used poor judgment in his decision making process and has violated the ethic rules of the accounting profession. During the audit of the bank documentation he should have immediately notified the bank of the conflict with the Wilson file. He needed to be upfront with the bank and explain the Wilson’s were also a client of his for personal financial planning Page 5 nd have the file removed from the sample audit or bring in a third party to complete the audit on the Wilson documents. The loan officer should not have shared the personal information with Mr. Gable and Mr. Gable should have ended the conversation before it began. Sharing with the Wilson’s that discrepancies were noted between bank statements and loan documentation will allow the Wilsonà ¢â‚¬â„¢s to clear up the discrepancies at the bank in regards to their accounts. Page 6 References Brooks, L. J. , 2007. Business & professional ethics for directors, executives & accountants (4th ed). Mason, OH: Thomas South-Western.

Public Facilities

public facilities in india have become more than in these recent years. Our country is progressing very fast like a person climbing fast on any mountain peak. In this scenario indians are provided with many public facilities such as transport facilty, communication facility, social facility , etc, but amongst all education facility is the most pre occupied in them. As you all know education plays a very crucial roles in our day to day life and even if the peoples are not educated then these other facilties become of no use. people are well been provided with these facilities but some people may not use them properly.You can see this in many newspaper or in any media and even we see them in our daily life such as some peoples have the habit to dirt the public bus or you can see the real life example in your school. in your school some bad students untides classroom and broke or make designs on desks and tables. thus , lastly i would like to say that we must not have to destroy public facilities in our country as such india is a great fast develoing country which will soon become much economical than it is now, before it will happen, our indian government is trying the best to provide us facilties that can help us to be stable in our day to day life. o that ‘s all balwant , hope this will help you, cheers! public facilities in india have become more than in these recent years. Our country is progressing very fast like a person climbing fast on any mountain peak. In this scenario indians are provided with many public facilities such as transport facilty, communication facility, social facility , etc, but amongst all education facility is the most pre occupied in them.As you all know education plays a very crucial roles in our day to day life and even if the peoples are not educated then these other facilties become of no use. people are well been provided with these facilities but some people may not use them properly. You can see this in many newspaper or i n any media and even we see them in our daily life such as some peoples have the habit to dirt the public bus or you can see the real life example in your school. n your school some bad students untides classroom and broke or make designs on desks and tables. thus , lastly i would like to say that we must not have to destroy public facilities in our country as such india is a great fast develoing country which will soon become much economical than it is now, before it will happen, our indian government is trying the best to provide us facilties that can help us to be stable in our day to day life. so that ‘s all balwant , hope this will help you, cheers!

Current Network Characteristics and Components Essay

In reviewing the Kudler Intranet site it can be determined that all three Kudler offices are connected via a dedicated T3 line, set up as a bus topology. Each location is built around a 100base T, fast Ethernet environment. La Jolla serves as the home office location and the location for the main company server. The main server is an IBM blade server system C3000 with a UNIX operating system. As the main company server it runs all the corporate procurement and logistic software (SAP, ERP) and is responsible for all the print/file services, network services, company e-mail, storage control, and the internal and external web. Server backup is provided by a 10GB network-attached storage system. The retail stores are connected to the network via a point of sale server and point of sale terminals. Communications in and out of La Jolla is ported through two Cisco routers with firewalls. The La Jolla location currently has 19 VoIP phones and 19 employees. As previously stated, both the Del Mar and Encinitas locations are built around a 100base T network. Both locations have a local server which is also an IBM blade server system C3000 with a UNIX operating system. Both servers run the same services at the main company server with the exception of the corporate procurement and logistic software. Retail locations also run the same point of sales terminals. Each location currently has six employees and six VoIP phones. There are a total on 30 computers connected to the company network. Current Network Topology Each location is built on a bus topology. Each location employs 100 base T Ethernet with all stations connected via twisted pair cable. All the nodes (computers, servers, printers) are connected to the bus cable with interface connectors. Several problems come to mind with this type of network topology. Dependency on central cable in this topology has its disadvantages. If the main cable (bus) encounters some problem, whole network breaks down. A limited number of stations can be added to the network, these severely impacts future capacity growth. Performance degrades as additional computers are added or on heavy traffic periods. Data speeds can be severely impacted by an increase is users or if users are accessing the network at the same time. Also of concern with this type of topology is the possibility of higher maintenance costs and troubleshooting difficulty. Security is very low on this type of network architecture. Standards Several standards will be applicable to a project of this scope; these standards will depend upon the level of the OSI model that is being addressed. Frame relay will be used at the WAN level. IEEE 802.11 wireless LAN standards will be applicable with Wi-Fi certified devices. Voice over IP (VoIP) uses IP protocols and the International Telecommunication Unions ITU-T standard (H.323). References Reference Anonymous (2007) Kudler Fine Foods. Retrieved February 6, 2013, from https://ecampus.phoenix.edu/secure/aapd/CIST/VOP/Business/Kudler2/internet/index.asp Reference Anonymous (2007) Kudler Fine Foods Intranet. Retrieved February 9, 2013, from https://ecampus.phoenix.edu/secure/aapd/CIST/VOP/Business/Kudler2/intranet/index.asp

Gun control Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Gun control - Research Paper Example Some people supported the owning of fire arms by Americans while others advocated for new laws that would ban the sale of some semi-automatic firearms. These gun control calls were a measure to reduce the occurrence of a tragedy like the Sandy Hook elementary school shooting. After the incident at Sandy Hook, over 100,000 Americans signed a petition supporting renewed debate on gun control in America. Gun violence in the United States is the leading cause of calls to control guns. Gun violence is common in urban areas and more often involve young males (GIIDS, 2011). Such high profile shooting like the Sandy Hook elementary school massacre has heightened debate on gun policies in America. Statistics show that 70 percent of all homicides in the United States get perpetrated using some firearm. This includes suicides and accidental shooting incidences. Different policies at the state, federal and local levels, have made an attempt to address gun violence through a number of methods inc luding restrictions of firearm purchases by at risk population, establishment of gun buyback programs, law enforcement and policy strategies. Other measures to curb the increasing instances of gun violence include setting periods of waiting before purchasing of firearms, enactment of harsh laws of violators of gun laws, community outreach programs, and education programs for children and parents. The federal legislation aims at prohibiting the sale of firearms to criminals and insurgents. Gun policies get determined by the interpretation of the second amendment of the constitution of the United States. These amendments have been subject to several disagreements throughout the years. This second amendment protects a person’s right to own a firearm for the traditional lawful purpose of defense against trespassers in the home and within the federal enclaves. This protection extends to the states as well. There have been numerous endeavors in the United States by authorities to c ontrol the use of guns throughout the states. This has led to numerous recommendations in relation to gun laws and policies. Recommendations on the gun laws are as follows. There should be a ban to the military assault weapons that include high capacity magazines (Carter, 2006). Background checks should be expanded, and gun traffic laws should be toughened. A ban should be imposed on the sale and production of magazines with more than 10 rounds. The expanded background checks should include criminal checks to prevent an instance of criminals getting access to guns. The loophole should be closed that exempts gun buyers from any form of screening. Legislations should be passed to ban transfer or possession of armor bullets and cracking down on individuals. These people after passing the screening test hand over the guns to criminals and people forbidden from buying the guns. Top of these recommendations is the background checks issue. It is important for an individual background to be thoroughly scrutinized before getting allowed to own or even purchase a gun. There should be a ban on assault weapons. Another recommendation would be making legislation that defined gun trafficking as a federal crime. This legislation would limit the gun flow in, out and within states. There should be an addition of more legal language in the laws regarding the distribution of guns such that there are less legal hurdles in prosecution. This is because the current legal language as regards to gun laws has proved difficult

Peptidoglycan and Lipoteichoic Acidinduced Cell Activation Lab Report

Peptidoglycan and Lipoteichoic Acidinduced Cell Activation - Lab Report Example This can eventually lead to sepsis (Alberts et al 2002a). Previous work showed that in Gram negative bacteria lipopolysaccharide (LPN), a component of the outer membrane, activated a cell's immune response in this manner. It interacted with the Toll-like receptors types 2 and 4 (TLR2 and TLR4) present on host cell membranes (Kirschning et al 1998, Poltorak et al 1998, Quereshi et al 1999). The authors in this paper demonstrate how the components of Gram positive bacterial cell membranes stimulate cell activation through TLR2. The invasion of an organism's blood stream with bacteria often results in sepsis. Invasive bacteria will activate the host cell's immune system. Sepsis results from the inability of the immune system to limit bacterial spread during an infection. The inhibitory mechanisms controlling inflammation are over-ridden by the huge bacterial load on the cell. Inflammation during sepsis will then develop into a systemic syndrome with a number of clinical symptoms such as tissue injury, increased vascular permeability, dilation of blood vessels, loss of plasma volume and blood clotting, and, eventually, multi-organ failure and shock (Alberts et al 2002b, Decker 2004)). Initially bacteria bind to host cell membranes and this stimulates the systemic release of cytokines and other inflammatory signalling molecules into the blood. (Alberts et al 2002b). ... The mechanism for Gram negative bacterial mediated activation of the cell's immune response has been well documented (Alberts et al 2002). LPN within the bacterial cell wall binds to LPN binding protein present in serum and this complex in turn binds to the CD14 receptor (figure 4). The CD14 receptor is either soluble in serum or tethered to the host cell membrane through a GPI (glycophosphatidylinositol) anchor. Either way the CD14 receptor does not have an intracellular domain so it cannot transmit its signalling messages intracellularly. This observation suggested that another "co-receptor" acted in conjunction with the CD14 receptor to allow the transmission of an extracellular signal to the inside of the cell. The Toll-like receptors (TLRs) have an intracellular domain linking to the IL-1 signalling pathway. The Toll-like receptor acts to phosphorylate a cascade of kinases TRAF6, TAK-1, IKK and eventually the transcription factor NFB. NFB then translocates to the nucleus where i t activates the transcription of a number of genes involved in immune and inflammatory responses (Alberts et al 2002a, figure 5). In Gram negative bacteria the Toll-like receptors 2 and 4 has been shown to be intrinsic in cell activation (Kirschning et al 1998, Poltorak et al 1998, Quereshi et al 1999). In this paper the authors attempted to determine if components isolated from Gram positive bacteria activated cells in a TLR dependent manner. HEK293 cells were transfected with a number of Toll-like receptors alongside a luciferase reporter gene. A NFB transcription element was placed upstream of the luciferase reporter gene, such that activaiton of NFB would initiate transcription of luciferase. When luciferase

AeroMedical Education Plan Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

AeroMedical Education Plan - Essay Example As the research declares Bloom’s taxonomy of learning recognizes that there are three major domains that are fundamental in the promotion of higher forms of thinking in the learning process. According to Bloom, Engelhart, Furst, Hill and Krathwohl, the three domains of educational training are 1) cognitive domain that deals with mental skills, 2) affective domain that involves growth in feelings or emotional areas, and 3) psychomotor domain that deals with physical or manual skills. Atherton argues that each of the domains is sub-divided into various levels in a hierarchical model starting with the most basic process to the most complex one as shown below. According to the paper findings Bloom’s taxonomy helps education planners contextualize teaching programs that enable learners attain a holistic study and understanding of knowledge in terms of its foundations, scope and validity. This brings about the desired effectiveness in educational and training programs among learners. The Commission on Accreditation of Medical Transport System (CAMTS) is charged with the responsibility of developing standards for the aero-medical environment. According to CAMTS, the requirements for the orientation, training and continuing education programs for the aero-medical personnel are premised on the transport program’s the purpose of the service, mode(s) of transport provided and its constituents contained in the mission statement, scope of care and patient population.

Digital Nation Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Digital Nation - Essay Example On the other hand, the second section says the internet fosters disintegration, which is concern for â€Å"Daily Me† from a negative perspective. Third, technology harbors a global village from a positive perspective while Balkanizing and spreading worries of â€Å"mob rule† from a negative perspective (Dretzin 2010). Fourth, â€Å"Digital Nation† argues that technology is heterogeneous or endorses diversity of opinions and expression positively (Dretzin 2010). Technology can also be homogenous and result in close-mindedness from a negative standpoint. Fifth, technology positively enables self-actualization while promoting lessening personhood from a negative view (Dretzin 2010). The sixth section says the internet is an instrument of freedom and enablement from a positive view (Dretzin 2010). The internet is similarly an instrument of regular manipulation and exploitation, which is a negative perspective. Seventh, PBS’ Frontline believes the internet is a tool that can help educate, which is a positive aspect (Dretzin 2010). Alternatively, the internet can dumb down its hundreds of millions of users, which is a negative aspect. Eighth, technology endorses anonymous communication, which is a positively necessary element of whistleblowing or strong discussions (Dretzin 2010). The negative aspect of this section says technology spreads the fear of secrecy, which deteriorates responsibility in debates and tradition. Lastly, technology has introduced the abundance of data, which positively roots for new educational opportunities (Dretzin 2010). Technology also negatively imposes fear of data surplus, particularly in educational settings. PBS Frontline’s â€Å"Digital Nation† discussion of heterogeneity in technology was most captivating, challenging, and hopeful. This is because this aspect of technology teaches that humans are adjusting and learning to manage with technological change but with some

Web Development for Information Management Coursework

Web Development for Information Management - Coursework Example System†,â€Å"Boston Pizza†, â€Å"Zuppler Online Ordering Menus†, â€Å"Funny Cow Fast Food†, â€Å"Hoagies & Wings, LA†), it was observed that there is an underlying trend that is generally followed while designing food delivery websites. Usually, a food provider hosts a website with a URL that depicts the food company’s name or some memorable association to it; a name that the customers can easily remember. On the homepage of the website is displayed the logo of the company, contact details and a detailed menu of the company’s food items with pricing, the delivery time, availability and cost for all the items. The customer is given the option to select food items from the menu displayed on the homepage. Whatever item the customer selects, it is added to an item’s cart that displays the total accumulated billing of the order so far along with the items selected. Once the customer is done selecting the items, he/she selects the check-out option from menu. In case, the customer is new, he/she provides some personal information (i.e. contact detail and delivery address) to register to the site and place the order. This information is stored within a database maintained by the food providers. In case, the customer is not new, he/she can use the login details from the past orders. The personal information will be retrieved automatically based on these details and the order will be placed automatically. The payment is done either online by provide credit card details or by hand on delivery. Once the order is placed, a notification is sent to the food provider regarding the placement of an order. This could be through sms, fax or a notification on the system running at the provider’s work area. The orders can be grouped into ‘completed’, ‘active’ and ‘pending’. Once the provider accepts an order, a confirmation is sent to the customer, either through an email or sms. The staff starts preparing the ordered food. Once the food is prepared, it is

Philosphy Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Philosphy - Essay Example The difference must be made between the case of Osma Bin Laden, and a murder case occasioned by an instant passion. Death Penalty should be abandoned. However, the time for the idea to get realized would be decided by healthy social conditions. Theories of Punishment In its Hammurabi’s sense the retribution stands for letting punishment fit the crime as eye for an eye, or hand for a hand, or life for a life. There is no place in this conception for replacing the consequence of crime with any thing other than the nature of committed crime. For Utilitarians, however, punishment should look for consequences resulting through the incurring of punishment. The Utilitarians put forward Deterrent and Reformative punishment theories. Deterrent means to punish others in order to deter from committing crime. It may be expressed in a dictum of a judge, â€Å"you are not punished for stealing sheep, but in order that sheep may not be stolen (Mackenzie 374).† This theory is oppressiv e in nature and considers human being as a thing. The Reformative theory of punishment emphasizes on changing the structure and thought of human being, compulsory volunteer service and social services are the examples of this theory. Retribution as connection between Punishment and Guilt Retributive theory of punishment aims to make a return of a man’s deed upon his own head. For Mackenzie, the aim of Retribution is to make it apparent that the evil consequences of his acts are not merely evils to others, but evils in which he is himself involved. Retributive theory therefore emphasizes upon facing the similar consequences as that of the committed crime. Being different from the other two theories, and often interpreted in its literal meaning, the important meanings of this theory remain hidden. The aim of retribution is to make connection between punishment and guilt, that is, to develop a sense of guilt regarding the crime. Retribution as expression of Moral outrage There i s an aspect and meaning of retribution that becomes operative in certain situation in order to try to answer the question whether some social phenomenon should be punished because it is violating the moral order of the society? Morality works upon the defined and prevailed conception of human being and the owned world-view, this may include religious position. The retributive theory, understood in its literal sense, may operate to curb the increase of a social phenomenon endangering the social moral order, and thus may operate as a utilitarian principle. For example, the increase of the crime rate in juvenile may trigger an operation against such groups to keep control of social moral order. Popular Instinct Retribution may be seen through the upsurge of popular instinct. In this situation, the need to go deep into the reality, and placing event within discursive world, does not play a role. The popular instincts decide retributively the punishment for the crime. For example, a rape of a female in a village may invoke a popular reaction that results into a strict punishment. In this situation, no other shade of retribution will be looked upon. Purely retributive justification It is difficult to understand the concept pure, as it may mean going back directly to Hammurabi’s literal intention and may mean understanding retribution only in the sense of an eye for an eye and

Critical paper , essay on a quote Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Critical paper , on a quote - Essay Example (Adler, P. S. and Winograd, T. A, 55-67) Behrens seems to have influenced Kahn's design for th Ford Highland Park factory. In France, Auguste Choisy, Auguste Perret, and Tony Garnier revolted against th eclecticism of nineteenth-century architectural practice, proposing instead to apply classical geometry and clarity to th new building materials so as to achieve structural coherence. French architects were th world pioneers in th use of reinforced concrete made with cement--a new compound patented in 1824 and industrially produced after 1845. Othr similar ideas, trends, and suggestions to follow th new spirit of technology and engineering were also emerging elsewhere in Europe at this time. One could argue that it was not surprising that thse radical avant-garde modernists would engage in colorful rhetoric so as to liberate thmselves from th chains of tradition, bolster thir creativity, and attract attention, but thre was much more than creative thirst or rhetorical fluff in modernism. Th avant-garde modernists not only gl orified th beauty of industry and th mechanical in thir writings and architectural works but also endorsed and used th new scientific methods of labor management and organization originally developed in th United States at th turn of th century. Th similarities between th techniques used by th scientific managers and by th avant-garde modernists are stunning--and troubling. (Adler, P. S. and Winograd, T. A, 55-67) Explanation European modernism did not arrive at an entirely novel approach to architecture and design until th 1920s, with th Bauhaus in Germany, Constructivism in th Soviet Union, Rationalism in Italy, and Purism in France. It was at this point that European architects made thir revolutionary reinterpretation of scientific management in aesthtic terms. Walter Gropius, th founder of th Bauhaus school of art and architecture in Germany, was a firm believer in scientific management methods and became one of th most influential architects of th twentieth century. He wished to formulate a new thory of architecture and to develop "practical designs for present-day goods" that could be mass-produced. As director, Gropius managed to attract a dream team of artists to th school, including Mies van der Rohe, Kandinsky, and Klee, among othrs. He and his colleagues designed industrial and no industrial buildings, decorated interiors, and collaborated with many German manufacturing firms on product design. (Adler, P. S. and Winograd, T. A, 55-67) As a result of German influence, th Russian arts and crafts movement had been toying with th artistic possibilities of mass production since th turn of th century. While th Bolshevik Revolution spurred a myriad of competing avant-garde artistic movements, Constructivism quickly gained sway over its alternatives, absorbing such important artistic trends as Product ional Art, Projectionist, and Rationalism. Th First Working Group of Constructivists was created in 1921 within th Institute of Artistic Culture. Th institute's role was to study th practical aspects of artistic activity in production. Engineers lectured thre regularly. (Baber, 66-78) Th constructivists proposed th ideals of th "artist-constructor" and th

What Feminism and Women's Studies Calls for and Performs Essay

What Feminism and Women's Studies Calls for and Performs - Essay Example This paper will focus on identifying significant ideas associated with feminism and women’s studies, and some of the significant role they play in the society. One the significant role played by feminism and women’s studies is to contribute to development of feminist movements and academic studies regarding construction of gender that facilitate harmony in the society. Besides, feminism and women’s studies are applied in gathering ideas that can question various cliches regarding gender, race and religion, which are sometimes considered nature, though they are established through social interactions. In addition, feminism and women’s studies has enable recognition of the effort that her been made by women in the resent years in order to realize the stature of feminism in the present day. Feminism and women’s studies takes interdisciplinary nature, which leads to affirmations of diversity in the perceptions by people who study them. Moreover, feminis m and women’s studies offers a basis of developing strategic discussions, feminist praxis, and for making significant interrelationships across various boundaries that are conventionally conceived. Feminism and women’s studies has facilitated flexibility, and a basis of questioning various notions regarding human assumptions regarding gender and relations. Feminism and women’s studies plays a vital role in encouraging members of the society in developing skills that can enable them think critically and sensitive about issues relating to gender. On the other hand, these studies offer students a critical awareness regarding the operations of gender and the way they operate in various contexts such as institutional, cultural and social. Feminism and women’s studies offers an introduction of critical gender theories that forms a functioning in demanding intellectual environment (Levin, 12). These studies take a vital role of introducing history, feminist theo ries and criticism, which are bases on critical theoretical framework applied in developing vital perceptions and knowledge about gender inequalities. Feminism and women’s studies strengthens ability to discuss and writer about feministic criticism with a high level of coherence, logic, and analytics (Kesler and Sameh, 185). Apparently, feminism and women’s studies requires understanding of feminist critiques, which are applied in making informed judgments and strengthening the society, building public policy and reconstructing sexist institutions. There is need to understand the impact of feminist perception and criticism, and the challenges that they have pose do conventional disciplines of liberal arts. Feminism and women’s studies has led to identification of women’s contribution to knowledge that was overlooked in the past. Feminism and women’s studies serve as vital sources for substantial writing regarding issues that involve women’s race and social classes (Kesler and Sameh, 186). Therefore, this creates familiarity with literature on women’s studies and awareness of significance of vitality of the journals, which involves frequency of publishing articles in Feminist Studies. However, understanding ideas in feminism and women’s studies, it is important to collaborate with in new generations of feminist scholars, activists’ artists, and creative writers. In addition, there is need for

Life is like a box of chocolates Essay Example for Free

Life is like a box of chocolates Essay At first glance the quote life is like a box of chocolates seems rather silly. How could such a large and complicated concept such as life be compared to something as small and simple as a box of chocolates? There have been two opposing viewpoints in regards to the meaning of this quote, and each viewpoint comes about by a different analysis of what life and chocolates represent as well as what they mean in todays world. The conclusion to the question can only come about through a thorough examination of the quote itself along with its possible entailments to see what both groups of people deem important and what they choose to ignore. Both arguments seem to work well to counter the other and show the flaws in the other explanations theory. According to the World Book Encyclopedia, life is a state, existence, or principle of existence conceived as belonging to the soul. Most people, when questioned about life would not have a very clear or concise answer because life is not something that is wholly tangible. In general life is considered to be everything that happens to a person from the moment they are born to the moment they die. All of their interactions with the world and all of their thoughts and actions. There does not seem to be any plan or order to these events, just everything that happens. Everything. Life is a long process with good, bad and indifferent points. According to the World Book Encyclopedia, a box is a container, usually with four stiff sides, a bottom, and a lid to pack or put things in, and chocolate is a substance made by roasting and grinding cacao seeds. A box of chocolates would logically be a container which holds cacao products. A scientific dissection of a box of chocolates would show a box (usually rectangular or heart shaped) filled with anywhere from one to dozens of small, individually wrapped chocolates. Usually the type of chocolate and the filling of each individual varies inside a given package. In America however, a box of chocolates means much more then this simple addition of definitions and a direct visual analysis would lead one to believe. A box of chocolates, in our referent system, is a symbol. It generally symbolizes  love, and through metonymy, has been made to mean love. When a gift of a box of chocolates is given on Valentines Day, it more than symbolizes love, it actually means love. The meanings have become blurred over the years as chocolate has become a standard gift. It is not an original thought to give someone chocolate, but more a means of showing love. Not an act of love, but merely an expression of love. The first group of people generally finish the simile life is like a box of chocolates with the conclusion you never know what youre gonna get. This group views all the meanings of life and of the box of chocolates and found the best compilation to be that both in life, and in chocolates, there is randomness and a lack of order. When a person walks out of the front door of his house on a Monday morning, there is no way for him to know if he is going to find a hundred dollar bill tucked under his doormat, or a large meteor that has fallen and crushed his car. Its hard to know if a day is going to be a good day or a bad day, you just know that it will be a day. The same holds true for eating a box of chocolates. When you open a box of chocolates, there are rows of non-differentiated chocolates. They all look the same, and yet you know some are filled with cream, some with caramel and some with coconut. When you pick one up, much like when the man opens his front door, there is no way of knowing if you will get a good chocolate (cream) or a bad chocolate (coconut), you just know youll get a chocolate. For both examples it will not be easy to tell if it was good or bad until the chocolate, or the day, has been completed. You never know what will happen. The second group of people generally finish the simile life is like a box of chocolates with the conclusion a thoughtless perfunctory gift that nobody really wants. This group takes up an opposing analysis and says that the important part of chocolates is not the randomness of them within the package, but instead the symbol that people dont really think in life, but instead just perform as they are expected to. Since chocolates have come to mean love, people no longer do creative things to express their love. They simple buy chocolates. Once the chocolates are delivered, then what. People dont actually want the chocolates, they want the love. Since the chocolates  have assumed the meaning of love, the chocolates themselves go to waste. Who wants to eat their love? Instead of being eaten immediately, as chocolates are truly intended to be, they are showed to friends and relatives, and eventually put on a shelf or in a cabinet. They will get eaten if someone shows desire, but its not important. Under this interpretation, life is pointless and merely for show. People dont do things because it is what they feel that they should, people do things because they are expected to (just as the lover is expected to give chocolate). It is better to put up an lofty facade, then to be true and honest to the people around you.

Strategic Planning For British Airways Management Essay

Strategic Planning For British Airways Management Essay The purpose of this paper is to evaluate an effective and efficient strategic planning for airline industry providing British Airways strategic plan. British Airways leading UK market as a leader of the airline industries. This paper evaluate the British Airways strategic planning including the strategic model, Enternal and external environmental enalysis,management risk and strategic v operational risk. This paper is done by secondary data collection process which is totally qualitative data base paper. Most of the information I got from British Airways own website (www.britishairways.com) and some are from some Book, Journals and Articles. Mainly for their (British Airways) business strategy planning they are following some strategic models like Porters five forces model, PESTEL analysis, and SWOT analysis etc. By those analysis organization can understand like British airways can understand that what is their external and internal condition and what is the strength for them ,what is opportunity and weakness and based on those factors they are trying to compete with their competitors and getting good market share in the tourism and hospitality industry. Contents 3 1.1 Objectives 5 1.2 Company Overview 6 1.2.1 Company Structure 6 1.2.2 Corporate Level Structure 7 1.2.3 Business Level Structure 7 1.2.4 Functional Level Structure 7 1.3 Current Strategies 8 2.0 Environmental Analysis(External Analysis) 9 2.1 PESTEL Analysis 9 2.2 SWOT analyses 11 3.0 Strategic Planning Model 11 S 11 Internal Strengths 11 Brand Image 11   Partnerships HYPERLINK #__RefHeading__29263_575820157HYPERLINK #__RefHeading__29263_575820157 Alliances 11   Financial size and stability 11   Terminal 5 11 W 11 Internal Weaknesses 11 Poor employee relations history 11   Reliability and trust 11   Innovation HYPERLINK #__RefHeading__29277_575820157HYPERLINK #__RefHeading__29277_575820157 change 11 0 11 External Opportunities 11 Quality System 11   Competitors forced exit 11   Competitors failing on delivering reliability 11   Emergence of new markets 11 T 11 External Threats 11 Open Skies Agreement 11   Environmental awareness 11   Global economic crisis 11   Lower cost competition 11 3.1 Porters Five Forces 12 4.0 Customer Analysis 13 5.0 Competitor Analysis 15 5.1 Strategic Groups 15 6.0 Internal Analysis 17 6.1 Value Chain Analysis (VCA) 17 17 6.2 Key Strategic Issues 20 7.0 Implementation 22 8.0 Managing Risk 24 9.0 Ethics 24 10.0 Strategic V Operational Conflict 25 11.0 Recommendation 26 11.1 Financial 26 11.2 People 26 11.3 Legal 26 11.0 Conclusion 27 1.1 Objectives The main objective of this paper is to develop the internal external environmental analysis and strategic planning with risk management and business ethics. Specific objectives are following, Evaluate the current strategic position of British Airways. Analyse the strategic Planning Models for British Airways. Analyse British Airways internal and external environment. 1.2 Company Overview British Airways is the UKs largest international scheduled airline. At the side of scheduled services, BA is engaged in the operation of international and domestic carriage of freight and mail, and the ancillary services (Datamonitor, 2008). In association with codeshare and franchise partners, BA fly to more than 300 destinations, and carried more than 33 million passengers, earning over  £8.7 billion in revenue in 2007/08 (British Airways, 2008). Employee headcount in March 2008 stood at 42,377 people (Datamonitor, 2008). Since privatisation in 1987, BA has continued to grow as competition in the market has risen worldwide. In recent times, BA has successfully been labelled the worlds first airline to take part in a scheme to reduce greenhouse gas emissions (2002) and to allow passengers to print online boarding passes (2004) (British Airways, 2008). In 2005, the company saw Willie Walsh become Chief Executive of BA (Flight Global, 2008), who to date has driven the company through the completion of Terminal 5 at Heathrow, amongst other new initiatives. Despite reported and imminent industry hits due to the global economic downturn, BAs future looks promising. As BA announces its aim of becoming the worlds most responsible airline in the latest annual report (British Airways, 2008), great importance lies in developing guiding principles and careful strategic direction to allow the achievement of this goal. 1.2.1 Company Structure When implementing strategy, people are crucial to the success (Johnson et al., 2008), therefore the structure within BA will now be analysed to ensure successful implementation. 1.2.2 Corporate Level Structure (Adapted from British Airways, 2008). At a corporate level, BA has a good structure already in place. There is a new Acting Customer Director on an interim basis, Silla Maizey (British Airways, 2008). She has introduced a new customer service team working with Heathrow Customer Services, designed to put customers first. Using the current structure to implement our strategy, it is recommended that a permanent and not acting director to be recruited. In terms of the technological strategy, no amendments to the current structure are necessary as BA already have systems in place to implement new technology. 1.2.3 Business Level Structure At a business level each department will need to ensure all staff implements the strategies that have come top-down from a corporate level and work within the organisations brand values. Each department must also tailor the corporate level objectives specifically to its own targets. This will help to build the brand, improve its customer relationship focus and achieve the stated objectives. 1.2.4 Functional Level Structure Every function must coordinate with each other to ensure objectives are met and an updated operations manual must be developed. Specifically for the relations strategy, detailed targets must be stated for both the marketing and HR functions with constant data capture and analysis to see whether the targets are being met. Sufficient training on the new onboard technology will be necessary on an ongoing basis to ensure that employees are fully familiar with the service. 1.3 Current Strategies The paper will be designed in consideration of BAs current strategies: Upgrade customer experience via the introduction of text and mobile services for business class customers. Modernise aircraft fleet and offer new services. Manage cost base. Increase corporate responsibility through environmental performance and partnerships. 2.0 Environmental Analysis(External Analysis) For success within the airline industry, an awareness of the external environment is essential. This section aims to highlight the position of the industry, in particular looking at competitors and assessing BAs capability to meet current and future challenges. 2.1 PESTEL Analysis (Source: Johnson et al., 2008, p56) Figure 1-Pastel Analysis Factors BA Implication Political 1. Heavy regulation (AEA, 2009). BA: Compliance is essential if BA wants to continue operations 2.Increased security due to past terrorist threats (DFT, 2008). BA: Sufficient security measures should be in place to ensure consumer confidence and competitive advantage is maintained. Economic 1.Global economic crisis:World growth is projected to just over 2  percent in 2009 (IMF, 2008). Pound weakens especially against the Euro. BA: Possible reduction in the amount of business travel as companies are cutting costs and using alternative means of communication such as teleconferencing. BA is vulnerable as a UK operating airline to a poor exchange rate. 2. Oil prices: declined by >50 % since their peak retreating to 2007 levels. Decline in fuel price = strengthening of the dollar (IMF, 2008) BA: Fluctuations in oil prices and exchange rates will directly affect BAs cost base. 3. UK consumer spending saw its sharpest decline for 13 years between July and September 2008 (Channel 4, 2008). BA: More intense competition Social 1.The UK has an aging population (see appendix 3) (National Statistics Online, 2008). BA:Potential opportunities for growth as older generations havemore time to spend on leisure activities such as international travel. 2. Increasing unemployment (Kollewe and Sager, 2008). BA: Increased bargaining power as an employer. Technological 1.A recent survey revealed that 34% of online consumers plan to use price-comparison sites more in 2009 (NMA, 2009). BA: Increased consumer awareness and therefore bargaining power. 2. Online booking services and check-in is becoming increasingly used by the airline industry. BA: BA must ensure that they remain up to date with these technological advances whilst avoiding becoming overly reliant, as this may isolate certain consumer markets (i.e the elderly) who dont feel comfortable using such technology. Environmental/Ethical 1.Noise pollution controls,and energy consumption controls (DFT, 2008). BA:New legislation (e.g. Climate Change Bill) enforcing tighter environmental regulation may increase operational costs each year. 2.Limited land and for growing airports Expansion is difficult at Heathrow as it would result in a loss in the Londons Green belt area. (BBC News 2006) BA:Limited capacity=>utilisation of capacity. 3.Consumers are becoming increasingly green and more aware of the environmental impact of their actions. BA:Failure to adopt an integrated environmental strategy could lead to a detrimental effect on the BAs reputation and income. 4.Cancellations of flights and loss of baggage (Channel 4, 2008). BA: Such ethical issues could have a detrimental effect on reputation if left unresolved. Legal 1.Collusion and price fixing. BA:Restriction on mergers will have an impact on BAs proposed alliance with American Airlines. 2. Recognition of trade unions and industrial action e.g. Cabin Crew strikes. BA:Good employee relations are essential if BA wants to avoid industrial action and interrupted operations. 3.Open Skies Agreement (AEA, 2009) BA:Opportunity for BA and its competitors to freely transport aircraft between the EU and US. 2.2 SWOT analyses Figure 2-SWOT analyses S Internal Strengths Brand Image   Partnerships Alliances   Financial size and stability   Terminal 5 W Internal Weaknesses Poor employee relations history   Reliability and trust   Innovation change 0 External Opportunities Quality System   Competitors forced exit   Competitors failing on delivering reliability   Emergence of new markets T External Threats Open Skies Agreement   Environmental awareness   Global economic crisis   Lower cost competition 3.0 Strategic Planning Model 3.1 Porters Five Forces (Source: Johnson et al., 2008, p60) It is important to analyse the competitive nature of the airline industry in order to assess the position of BA. The Five Forces tool will enable BA to make strategic decisions in order to increase profitability. Force Strength Competitive Rivalry BA caters for both long haul and short haul flights. Within long haul there is little differentiation between BA and their competitors, in terms of price and service offering. The short haul market is more fragmented with many small players. Direct competitive rivalry is fierce, e.g. Virgin has a website opposing the proposed strategic alliance between BA and AA No Way BA/AA (Virgin Atlantic, 2008). Consolidation of competitors has increased competition. HIGH Power of Suppliers Two aircraft manufacturers = High bargaining power. BA restricted by sole supplier of fuel to the airport. Priority of landing slots is given to historic rights of existing users (IATA, 2008). BA employees use collective bargaining through trade unions in order to increase their bargaining power HIGH Power of Buyers Low concentration of buyers to suppliers means they have little bargaining power. Increased internet usage has amplified awareness and interaction of customers (Keynote, 2008c). MEDIUM Threat of New Entrants Significant barriers to entry: such as the competitive environment, high regularity requirements and high capital cost requirements. Barriers to exit are in place which deters new entrants. The failure of recent airlines such as XL and Zoom is likely to deter new entrants (Times Online, 2008). LOW Threat of Substitutes There are few direct substitutes: Short haul flights: the Eurostar or a ferry. Long haul flights: no notable substitutes. LOW 4.0 Customer Analysis Over the past decade there has been increasing complexity in customer needs, as the customer has become more educated and demanding. Particularly, the following changes have occurred: A shift in demographics to older passengers (Keynote, 2008c). Increased global connectivity allowing the usage of internet and search mediums (e.g. comparison and review websites). Increased requirement for convenience (e.g. new destinations, quick check-in). Price has become more of a priority Segments have become more defined within their needs. Evidence that BA is failing to respond to the changing customer landscape includes: The amount of BA customers recommending their services reduced from 61% in 2006/07 to 59% in 2007/08 (British Airways, 2008). BA have been criticised for slow innovation (Doganis, 2006, Pg 165). Poor reliability and baggage handling (AQR) Failed attempts to target the price conscious consumer through low cost airline operation (Eirma, 2008). 5.0 Competitor Analysis 5.1 Strategic Groups Figure 3 Strategic Group Analysis (Source: Johnson et al., 2008, p73-77.) Figure 3 illustrates that BAs direct competitors are those who operate similar services and lie within the same strategic group. The competition is likely to be most intense within this group as they are seeking similar strategies. Lufthansa and KLM-Air France are the 2 leading European Airlines Member carriers in terms of passenger numbers, with 15.1% and 14.1% respectively of the total number of passengers carried. BA comes in third with 9.3% of the total (Keynote, 2008c). BA face competition from a small number of serious contenders in the UK, with the main contenders being Virgin Atlantic, and United Airlines in the Star Alliance soon controlling BMI (Euromonitor, 2008). Although they do not lie within the same strategic group as BA the advent of low-cost air travel has changed the face of the airline industry. Airlines such as Ryanair and EasyJet have established themselves among the leading carriers in Europe, whilst the more established long-haul carriers such as BA have struggled to keep up with their counterparts growth rates. Moreover the economic downturn and sharp fall in oil prices has caused a price war between Emirates, BA and Virgin Atlantic on the London-Dubai route. Fares have dropped by 30% across the airlines. Thus competition still remains fierce. Based on the strategic group analysis it could be argued that there is a gap in the market for a low cost airline operating a high breadth of service however it is likely the reason no airlines have adopted this strategy is due to the fact that it would be destined to fail. This assumption could be supported by BAs failed attempt to enter this market in recent years (Telegraph, 2002). 6.0 Internal Analysis It is now essential to analyse the internal environment in order to formulate appropriate strategies. 6.1 Value Chain Analysis (VCA) BA have tried to control the system further by forward and backward mitigation. Through controlling many component supplies in-house, and through BA Holidays Plc, BA increases their reach in the value system to the supplier and channel value chains. Figure 6 Value Chain (Adapted from: Johnson et al., 2008, p110) SUPPORT ACTIVITIES FIRM INFRASTRUCTURE Structured hierarchy allows BA to make use of a multitude of specialist knowledge in order to gain competitive advantage over downsized firms. HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT Invested in the development of customer service training in 2007 attracting the best employees. Speak Up opinion survey encourages employees to provide feedback (British Airways, 2008). TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT BA has added value in this category over smaller companies due to slack resources that can be employed to innovate the service (e.g. individual LCD screens). PROCUREMENT Due to the size and historical business relationships and alliances, BA is able to leverage suppliers and through economies of scale make efficiencies where competitors may fail. PRIMARY ACTIVITIES INBOUND LOGISTICS Stock Control High quality training accredited by City Guilds (British Airways, 2008). Ongoing relationship with suppliers (e.g. Gate Gourmet. OPERATIONS Increased Baggage Security. Quick check-in services and secure online bookings with ability to pre-book additional services. OUTBOUND LOGISTICS Customer Service Large database of airport slots enable passengers to access the majority of destinations from preferred airport. MARKETING SALES Marketing communications to all stakeholders. Brand allowing for large budget to be spent in this field. POST SALE SERVICE Loyalty club card. Update communication on other services Whilst the Value Chain highlights the primary and support activities that add value to BA, there are a number of inefficiencies within these activities that arguably reduce the amount of value provided (see figure 7 and 8). Figure 7 Support Activities Value Loss SUPPORT ACTIVITIES Firm Infrastructure Large bureaucratic infrastructure decreases effective communication and increases inertia. HRM BAs employee opinion surveys attracted a mere 35% response rate in 2007 (British Airways, 2008). Due to high collective bargaining capabilities, BA has contended a number of highly publicised employee relations issues (e.g. Cabin Crew strike over pay, sickness absence, and staffing in 2007 (BBC News, 2007). Technology Development BA has failed to gain recognition for new innovation. Figure 8 Primary Activities Value Loss PRIMARY ACTIVITIES Inbound Logistics High solidarity between supplier employees and BA employees has created a history of negative industrial action. For example, in 2005, BA employees walked out for two days when Gate Gourmet employees were sacked (BBC News, 2005). Operations/Outbound Logistics TV documentary reported on Terminal Five operation difficulties, an emergency landing at LHR, poor baggage handling and flight cancellations (Channel Four, 2008). Marketing Sales A lack of innovation in their marketing communications (e.g. Virgin gaining value over BA). 6.2 Key Strategic Issues Analysis Tool Key Findings Strategic Implications PESTEL Global economic crisis. Higher regulatory requirements. Increasing environmental awareness. Decline in consumer spending. Increased use of the internet by customers. Focus on technological and environmental issues. Porters Five Forces High competitive rivalry and bargaining power of suppliers. Defensive strategies needed to protect market share. Customer Analysis Consumer trends in high convenience and high expectations of service. Ensure changing customer needs are understood and met Strategic Group Analysis Intense competition within strategic group and trend for consolidation. The biggest other threat comes from low cost airlines. Although low cost airlines are the biggest threat to BA, moving into low cost market is not deemed appropriate based on previous failed attempts. Airline Quality Review BA = poor baggage handling, poor on flight entertainment and low customer satisfaction. Service Quality needs to be improved to gain a competitive advantage GE Matrix Highest growth markets; Asia Pacific and Eastern Europe. BA has a strong opportunity for market development in Asia and Eastern Europe. The Value Chain BA adds value; financial size and stability, brand image, industry expertise, and partnerships and alliances. BA loses value to competition; employee relations and performance, marketing delivery, reliability, and slow innovation. BA needs to address the areas where value is being lost to avoid attacking competitor strategies. Resource Based View Strong resources including sole access to hub within largest UK Airport. Strong training competencies. Utilise BA core competences to gain competitive advantage. Financial Analysis Increased profits and lower operating costs. Lower gearing ratios and higher liquidity. Possibility of a loss in 2009 as a result of the economic downturn. Investment resources available. Increased scrutiny on strategic projects for risk assessment. 7.0 Implementation Based on the analysis of strategic options it is proposed that two strategies are implemented simultaneously. These strategies are a people processes focused strategy and technological advancement. Figure 12 details the objectives and performance measures of these two strategies. Figure 12 Strategy Overview Strategy Objectives Performance Measures People processes Aim: Improved stakeholder brand image profitability Utilise databases. Improve service delivery efficiency. Improve internal communication. Implement effective review monitoring. Profit margin increase of 2 3%. Increase repeat purchasing by 25%. Increase customer recommendation from 59% (2007/08) to 70%. Improve employee survey rate from 35% (2007/08) to 80% (Value Chain). Technological advancement Aim: Customer Loyalty Market Share Following succession with test internet implementation, roll out internet on-board internet access. An appropriate pricing strategy involving complimentary service for first class whilst targeting business class as the most profitable market. Continued market research to ensure that this is a valued service and seek opportunities for further development. Install equipment on remaining 244 aircraft. Increase business class market share by 10%. 80% of business class customers purchasing internet usage. Following RD implement 1 new technological service. In order for the chosen strategies to be successful effective implementation is essential to organise and enable success and to manage the changes that will impact BA. 8.0 Managing Risk Risk management helps the organization to identify and address the risks facing their business and trying to increase the probability of successfully achieving their businesses objectives. Types of risk business need to face: Strategic Compliance Financial Operational Three main risk factors affecting all airline are volatility in jet fuel price, foreign exchange and interest rate risks. Interest Rate Risk: BA utilizes swap agreements to manage its interest rate exposure. Foreign Exchange Risk: BA manages its Foreign Exchange exposure. Any surplus of foreign currency is sold at spot or forward for US dollars. 9.0 Ethics An ethics strategy should be concerned with ensuring that all corporate activities are ethical, legal, and within all regulatory guidelines.   An ethics program is more likely to be considered effective if it includes the following components: 1)  Statement of Values The creation and communication of a statement of organizational values is considered to be necessary guidance. 2)  Code of Conduct A code of conduct or an ethics policy that communicates a commitment to ethical behavior throughout the organization, and explains how these values are to be applied in representative situations. 3)  Executive Leadership and a System A plan and systems for the communication, monitoring, and enforcement of the Code of Conduct. Important consideration in this respect, include: Richard Bransons success in forcing British Airways into adopting a Code of Conduct is a warning to companies that do not have a code that they ought to consider adopting one and to those that do that they should make sure it works. Without an effective ethical policy, a company cannot be sure that ethical judgments made by employees are consistent with the strategy of the company and are made at an appropriate level within it. Ethics protects the reputation of the company. British Airways is a classic example, where large amounts of marketing investment in image were undermined by the publics perception of its actions. British Airways experience shows that management may be deluding themselves if they consider that all employees in a company will adopt their values and the strategic importance of ethicality by absorbing knowledge from superiors. 10.0 Strategic V Operational Conflict While strategic and operational planning both offer beneficial aspects, there are some key differences that should be understood. Strategic planning is the formal process of defining the requirements for delivering high payoff results, and for identifying what, and how, to get from current realities to future ones that add value to the organization. It is not rigid nor lockstep, but rather a self-correcting set of defining requirements and relationships for stating what is in terms of results, and moving ever closer to what should be the results and payoffs.   Strategic Planning is long term planning undertaken by senior management (i.e. the executives). It involves making decisions which will work toward reaching an organisations mission and vision statements. Operational planning is day to day planning undertaken by front line managers. They report to middle management and enact the leg work of the strategies developed by middle management to achieve strategic goals. 11.0 Recommendation Although strong and justified strategies have been created within the confines of the report there are a number of issues which BA should take into consideration when implementing the proposed strategies. These are considered briefly below. 11.1 Financial BA should not have much trouble in implementing these strategies. With an increasingly lower gearing ratio and better liquidity they should be able to secure some funding from financial institutions and obtain the rest from retained profits. However, with the current economic conditions, it will still be difficult to obtain funding and BA will not want to increase its gearing too much. 11.2 People The recommended strategy to improve relations will require full support from BAs workforce. As a highly unionised workforce, success in changing the employment relationship will be determined by BAs ability to work efficiently with each recognised union. In regards to implementing change, due to BAs history and size the company may experience organisational inertia or myopia. Again, improvements to customer relations may be hindered by an uncooperative workforce, highlighting the importance of ongoing training and support. Similarly, a technological stance will require BAs employees to develop service knowledge, and it is imperative for the organisation to support them in doing so on a continual basis. 11.3 Legal The use of Wi-Fi on planes is already allowed by the aviation regulators in the UK, Europe and Rest of the World. However, regulatory approval must be achieved before it can be implemented on planes flying to/from USA (Wlanbook, 2008; Row 44, 2008). The use of external legal consultants should be used when implementing both strategies to ensure that legal requirements are met, especially when performing internal and external surveys and the confidentiality of data. 11.0 Conclusion As a result of the external and internal analysis a number of strategic options were proposed. It was concluded that a combined strategy approach to improve service quality was deemed most suitable. Due to the current industry climate we have chosen a strategy to consolidate BAs position as market leader. Due to the scale and scope of BAs operations it was decided that the focus of this report would be on scheduled passenger flights. We would recommend further strategic analysis to implement SBU level strategies. Due to lack of primary research and restricted access to company information there may be limitations in our findings and recommended strategy, however we believe that if the general direction of our suggested strategic intent is followed it will lead to lead to success. Reference Johnson, G.and Scholes, K (2002) Exploring Corporate Strategy.6th Edition.London, UK Prentice Hall. Kathleen B Hass, Richard Vander Horst, Kimi Ziemski (2008).  From Analyst to Leader: Elevating the Role of the Business Analyst Management Concepts, 2008.  ISBN 1567262139. p94: As the discipline of business analysis becomes professionalized HYPERLINK http://www.theiiba.org/Content/NavigationMenu/Learning/Bodyo