Should the Sat Be Required?

First introduced in the year 1926, for many years now – the SAT, or Scholastic Assessment Test, has been a major part of our high schooler’s education. It is a requirement in order to graduate – and is a chief determining factor in whether or not a student will be accepted into certain colleges. In fact, a student could have straight D’s and C’s, yet if they were to receive a perfect or near perfect score on this particular test – they would be able to apply and be accepted into the most prestigious of schools. I think this is absolutely ludicrous.The SAT test is one tailored to be one of the trickiest you’ve ever taken, one that is actually designed to fool you into misunderstanding every question. Not to mention the stress that overcomes most students as they’re taking this timed test, second guessing every answer and worrying about every little thing until finally the time is up – and they feel like a failure. Itâ€⠄¢s silly to put a student in this atmosphere – where most are not at their best – test them on random subjects, and then allow this score to come before every other score they’ve ever received in their life.Indeed a quote from Einstein comes to mind as I think about it, â€Å"Everybody is a genius. But if you judge a  fish  by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life believing that it is stupid†. The SAT has been under scrutiny for years now, often accused of being biased in the upper class’ favor. In fact, studies have shown that students from families with an income less than $20,000 a year received an average score of 1,310, while students from families with incomes over $200,000 averaged in at about 1,715 – a difference of 405 points.There was also a large controversy over the ‘oarsman-regatta analogy question’. The purpose of the question poised was â€Å"to find the pair of terms that have the relatio nship most similar to the relationship between â€Å"runner† and â€Å"marathon†. The correct answer was â€Å"oarsman† and â€Å"regatta†. The choice of the correct answer presupposed students' familiarity with crew, a sport popular with the wealthy, and so upon their knowledge of its structure and terminology.Fifty-three percent of white students correctly answered the question, while only 22% of black students also scored correctly. However, according to Murray and Herrnstein, the black-white gap is smaller in culture-loaded questions like this one than in questions that appear to be culturally neutral. Analogy questions have since been replaced by short reading passages†. In response to the controversy, a growing number of colleges have chosen to join the ‘SAT optional movement’, a movement made popular in the late 1980s.Said colleges do not require the SAT for admission. In a 2001 speech to the  American Council on Education,   Richard C. Atkinson, the president of the  University of California, urged dropping the SAT Reasoning Test as a college admissions requirement, â€Å"Anyone involved in education should be concerned about how overemphasis on the SAT is distorting educational priorities and practices, how the test is perceived by many as unfair, and how it can have a devastating impact on the self-esteem and aspirations of young students.There is widespread agreement that overemphasis on the SAT harms American education†. I very much agree with his argument, and many are starting to see his point as well. I am very hopeful that in the growing infamy of the test, it will vanish as a requirement all together, and that the next generation will never have to deal with the problems such a test presents.

Aprasia

l Burns: Understanding Nursing Research, 5th Edition Appraisal Exercises Critical Appraisal Guidelines for Qualitative Studies Research Article: Stress and nursing care needs of women with breast cancer during primary treatment: A qualitative study QUALITATIVE CRITICAL APPRAISAL GUIDELINES|KEY CONCEPTS INAPPRAISAL| Problem Statement1. Identify the clinical problem and research problem that led to the study. 2. How did the author establish the significance of the study? In other words, why should the reader care about this study? || Purpose and Research Questions1. Identify the purpose of the study. . List research questions that the study was designed to answer. If the author does not explicitly provide the questions, attempt to infer the questions from the answers. 3. Were the purpose and research questions related to the problem? 4. Were qualitative methods appropriate to answer the research questions? || Literature Review1. Did the author cite quantitative and qualitative studies relevant to the focus of the study? What other types of literature did the author include? 2. Are the references current? 3. Identify the disciplines of the authors of studies cited in this paper.Does it appear that the author searched databases outside of CINAHL for relevant studies? 4. Did the author evaluate or indicate the weaknesses of the available studies? 5. Did the literature review include adequate information to build a logical argument? Another way to ask the question: Did the author provide enough evidence to support the verdict that the study was needed? | 4. The author mentioned limitations of the study by a bias. Some women who were mentally unstable, or if the nurses felt as if they would be over whelmed with the interview were excluded. 5.The author did go into detail about the many things that are need for a patient with breast cancer. | Frame of Reference 1. Did the author identify a specific perspective from which the study was developed? If so, what was it? 2. When a researcher uses the grounded theory method of qualitative inquiry, the researcher may develop a framework or diagram as part of the findings of the study. Was a framework developed from the study findings? |1. The author did not mention a specific form which the study was developed. In my opinion it was developed to help with the coping of breast cancer in women. 2.The framework was to include the specific strain influencing the women affected during the time, the needs and expectations they had of the nurses. | Research Tradition1. Identify the stated or implied research tradition upon which the study was based. 2. Were the methods used in the study consistent with the research tradition? |1. There was not a stated research tradition stated but the implied one was phenomological research because it was based on real life situations. 2. The method used was consistent with the research tradition. The participants were interviewed and allowed to answer questions.They touched on many aspects of the strains when dealing with breast cancer. | Sampling and Sample1. Identify how subjects were selected. 2. At what sites were subjects recruited for the study? Did the sites for recruitment fit the sampling needs of the study? 3. What were the inclusion and exclusion criteria for the sample? 4. Were the selected subjects able to provide data relevant to the study purpose and research questions? 5. How many people participated in the study? Did any potential subjects refuse to participate? Did any of the participants start but not finish the study? |1.The 42 women were chosen by the nurses ate the hospital. They had to meet the following criteria early tumors, no further metastases elsewhere, no malignant pre-existing disease or neoadjuvant therapy, and the ability to understand the German language. Pg. 122. The patients were recruited while impatient in the hospital. That was a proper site for recruitment for this study because they were determining the stress and nursing care. 3. The inclusion was aimed at women with breast cancer in the stage of surgical procedures as primary therapy. The average ages of the women were 55 and the youngest person was 33 and the oldest was 79. g12 | Data Collection1. How were data collected in this study? 2. What rationale did the author provide for using this data collection method? 3. Identify the time period for data collection of the study. 4. Describe the sequence of data collection events for a participant. || Protection of Human Participants1. Identify the benefits and risks of participation addressed by the authors. Were there benefits or risks the authors do not identify? 2. How were recruitment and consent techniques adjusted to accommodate the sensitivity of the subject matter and possible vulnerability of participants? . How were data collection and management techniques adapted in acknowledgment of participant sensitivity and vulnerability? || Data Management and Analysis1. Describe the data man agement and analysis methods used in the study. 2. Did the author discuss how the rigor of the process was assured? 3. What measures were used to minimize the effects of researcher bias? 4. Did the data management and analysis methods fit the research purposes and data? || Findings1. Did the findings address the purpose of the study? 2. Were the data sufficiently analyzed? 3.Were the interpretations of data congruent with data collected? 4. Did the researcher address variations in the findings by relevant sample characteristics? || Discussion1. Did the results offer new information about the target phenomenon? 2. Were the findings linked to findings in other studies or other relevant literatures? 3. Describe the clinical, policy, theoretical, and other significance of the findings. Does the author explore these applications? || Logic and Form of Findings1. Were readers able to hear the voice of the participants and gain an understanding of the phenomenon studied? . Were elements of the research report easily found by readers? 3. Did the overall presentation of the study fit its purpose, method, and findings? 4. Was there a coherent logic to the presentation of findings? || Evaluation Summary1. Do the findings provide a credible reflection of reality? If so, how can the findings be used in nursing practice? 2. What do the findings add to the current body of knowledge? 3. State the conclusion of the critical appraisal of the study. || References cited in this appraisal that were not cited in the article:

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

Expectations - Essay Example The California Department of Education is responsible for ensuring that schools adhere to these standards. The advantage of all schools in a state to adopt same standards is that when a student changes schools, they are still guaranteed good education due to the same standards in the state. Mathematics and Science are some of the most important subjects in the curriculum. These subjects though require students to have a higher level of concentration during the learning process, due to the nature of their concepts. Most schools therefore, put more emphasis on these so that students perform equally well in them, like in the other subjects. For this reason, the national council of teachers of mathematics (NCTM) has also set its standards and expectations of schools in their performance in Mathematics. The mathematics expectations and standard by NCTM applies to the levels of prekindergarten through grade 12. These expectations are specific to each grade basing on their curriculum. Howev er, generally, this body of mathematics teachers expects that as a student goes through all the grades up to grade 12, they should have mastered all the important concepts in mathematics. Fist, students should be good at numbers and operations. This includes number systems, relationship between numbers, meaning of operations, and computing. In algebra, students must understand patterns, relations, and functions. They should also be able to analyze situations in mathematics using algebraic symbols (â€Å"National Council of Teachers of Mathematics†). The geometry standard requires students to be able to analyze the properties of geometric shapes and their relationships. They should also be in a position to apply symmetry to different mathematical situations, and use visualizing and geometry in problem solving. In measurement, students must understand different measurements and apply them. For data analysis and probability, students must be able to develop questions that can be solved with data collection. In addition, they should be able to employ right statistical method in data analysis. Overall, NCTM expects that the mathematics learning process should impart problem-solving skills in students and help them identify reasoning and proof as an important aspect in mathematics. The mathematical process must also help students develop their communication, including mathematical thinking. Additionally, students must be able to apply mathematical principles outside of mathematics. Finally, the concept of representation should help students to create and interpret social, physical, and mathematical phenomena (â€Å"NCTM†). The National Science Teachers Association (NSTA) also has a set of standards and expectations of schools in the science subject. This expects the science program to impart problem-solving skills in students, to solve problems in today’s scientific world. Teachers must therefore, involve students in first-hand scientific experi ences and utilize mathematical and communication skills in the learning process. Teachers must use different teaching styles and allow class discussions without any form of discrimination. Use of hands-on experiments to enhance and develop skills in students, and participations in workshops and conferences for scientific knowledge gain must be practiced (â€Å"National Science Teachers Association†). The school administrators provide instructional leadership by enforcing the national standards of science,

Correcting Sickle Cell Disease using Stem Cells Essay

Correcting Sickle Cell Disease using Stem Cells - Essay Example The pattern of inheritance of sickle cell anemia is autosomal recessive. That means the symptoms will only possibly manifest if both parents are carrier of hemoglobin A. However, at present, the only available long term treatment for the disease is bone marrow transplant, which is prone to rejection and subsequent immune system reaction. The goals of other treatments, blood transfusion and pain medicines, are only for short-term relief of symptoms (Zieve and Chen, 2011). Recently, however, researchers from Johns Hopkins have found another plausible long term treatment for sickle cell anemia. By inserting the correct hemoglobin A gene to pluripotent bone marrow cells and removing the defective hemoglobin S, the patient can be able to produce RBCs that have the correct type of gene (Science Daily, 2011). Despite this new breakthrough in treatment, this does not prevent inheritance of the disease, because the gene to be transferred to an offspring is contained in sex cells, and not the bone marrow cells that are to be fixed using the new technology recently

Staff Turnover in Hong Kong's Hospitality Industry Essay

Staff Turnover in Hong Kong's Hospitality Industry - Essay Example The phenomenon of employee turnover is considered as one of the natural outcomes of conduct of business in modern organizations. Thus it is said that achieving zero percent turnover is not practical and should not even be attempted in today’s rapidly changing employment environment (Branham, 2000). It is also said that some turn over may be desirable as it would enable a shake out amongst the employees avoiding bunching up of a large number with similar pay scales, salaries and capabilities making a pyramid (Branham, 2000). To retain all such employees will be extremely expensive for the organization. New employees are also said to bring in fresh ideas, approaches, abilities, attitudes and also prevent the organization from remaining stagnant (Branham, 2000). 2.3 Brief introduction of Hong KongHong Kong is said to be a very vibrant metropolis which has a life and dynamism of its own making it one of the unique cities in the World. It has a typical Chinese culture which has rem ained unaffected by British influence over the years (Hong Kong, 2006). It offers a mix of the modern and the ancient, the Oriental and the Western and therein lies its charm. At the same time the employment environment in Hong Kong follows a very flexible tendency. Thus employees in Hong Kong are not inhibited by generally accepted norms of loyalty and life long service which is characterized by some Eastern management cultures such as the Japanese (Hong Kong, 2006).

Analyse and critically evaluate the implementation of the 'Widenening Essay

Analyse and critically evaluate the implementation of the 'Widenening Participation in Higher Education' Policy in the context of New Right Ideology - Essay Example UK) in 2000 is anything to go by, while 48% of the higher social groups opted for improving their educational backgrounds, only 18% from the lower groups participated in the same. The gap between both the social groups was around 30%, a figure on the higher side. Some reasons that have been cited for this trend include the inability to bear the overall expenses of studying for a higher university degree, the desire to earn money rather than study, and the feeling that good institutions and good jobs are closed doors for them. Furthermore, it did not help matters that the ones in control had their own views about students and higher education. It was Margaret Thatcher and her government who ushered in New Right Ideology to deal with matters concerning higher education. These were her very words, â€Å"We are going much further with education than we ever thought of doing before† (Margaret Thatcher 196). This government took control in 1987, and their agenda can be summed up to include four major changes that they brought into the system. The first one was to make all educational institutions directly responsible for their finances and budgeting. It resulted in fierce competition between schools and colleges, since those that exhibited wonderful results in external examinations would be favored with more finances. Scholarly pursuits got relegated to the background, and the focus was shifted to attracting as many students as possible to respective institutions. This had not been the old pattern of th inking. In earlier days, the bureaucracy interfered as less as possible, believing that universities and institutions were meant for intellectual development more than anything else. complete success. A number of researches and studies were then carried out and as a result, modern educational policy makers have shifted their focus to widening participation in higher education and free access. They hope for some betterment in the system now at least! Now, what is meant

A Comparison of Business Systems Between Japan and China Essay

A Comparison of Business Systems Between Japan and China - Essay Example Being a collectivist culture means that managers and employees in Japan tend to work cooperatively, with very minimal power distance tolerated. A recent empirical study of the Japanese business environment indicated that participative leadership is the most accepted form of management whereby decision-making generally occurs from the bottom-up rather than utilising strict hierarchies of executive control.4 It is through consultation between different ranking employees and managers that a negotiation-based management style thrives and prospers. It is a more balanced system within the business dynamic whereby the attitudes and opinions of workers are highly respected and considered when making important corporate decisions. China, on the other hand, maintains very high levels of power distance between different ranking members of the organisation. Geert Hofstede recognises that Chinese culture scores very highly on power distance scales, meaning that there is a culturally-driven tolera nce for power disparities that makes most business systems vertical rather than horizontal when it comes to decision-making. This is a stark contrast between the Japanese business environment. Unequal power means that employees in the organisational hierarchy are not consulted for their opinions and problem-solving ability, whereby employees are routinely sanctioned and the general belief is that employees should not maintain aspirations for improving their rank and status within the organisational dynamic.5 These disparate relationships between managers and employees are highly polarized, meaning significant division, and there are generally no defences... This paper illustrated that there are many differences and similarities between Chinese and Japanese business systems and internal corporate ideologies. It cannot be said, concretely, that one business system is superior to another, only that both countries operate and manage their business structures with varying philosophies and approaches to securing the future and performance of their respective organisations. Much contemporary literature on how to successfully manage businesses, today, shows that adaptability and flexibility are necessary to find competitive success. Under this premise, it would seem that China maintains the most probability for ensuring long-term business performance than that of Japan. Even though Japan has many strengths, such as high determination in a corporate context, Chinese business systems will be most likely to endure long-term if these systems continue to utilise their current, existing business ideology. This report makes a conclusion that Japanese workers tend to view the future as being opportunistic whereby high performance and profitability results from a business perspective can be attained through dedication and hard work. Chinese employees and managers, in opposite accord, seek to find personal fulfilment whenever possible as a primary lifestyle and cultural goal in the pursuit of finding social acceptance with like-status peers. Therefore, there is evidence that some dimensions of long-term-focused thinking will be abandoned in Chinese culture based on hedonistic consumerism that is becoming commonplace in the nation.

Hitch Movie Review Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Hitch - Movie Review Example This discussion stresses that Smith emphases the use of non-verbal cues such as how to make one’s eye look heroic, what to tell women at the first ate and what one should not say to such women. The date doctor’s advice involves many strategies, both long and short term that acts through different ways to achieve the same objective. Other strategies are much subtle and require patience. Will Smith gives an array of recommendation that eventually assist his friends in their romantic life. Such non-verbal cues remains foremost in establishing comic effects and romance within the movie.From this paper it is clear that  Hitch receives his first client, Albert (Kevin James) who has been having many troubles in initiating romantic relationships. Kevin is in love with a very affluent and powerful cute lady, Allegra, whom he is not able to get. Allegra is hesitant in dating a young, boring and shy accountant because it will be demeaning her ego. Kevin consults Hitch on the way to go about the problem.   Kevin uses non-verbal cues by resigning when Allegra gets angry in a board meeting. He is trying to win Allegra by implying that he cares about her emotional turmoil due to wrong advice that she has just received from the investors. Allegra notices how caring Kevin is and gets attracted to him.  Kevin’s non-verbal trick seems to have worked perfectly for him in winning the beautiful lady.

Employee Turnover Dissertation Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Employee Turnover - Dissertation Example The study would also highlight whether, the management has a key role in mitigating the turnover effect or not. Research Process & Strategy Identify the problem Set the objectives Develop the Research Plan Data collection Analysis of Data Finding (results) Source : Kothari , 2008 A literature review was undertaken to investigate the influences and motivational forces that increase employee turnover. Further the link was established in order to find a relationship between the established theories and people own personal opinions. According to Marchington & Wilkinson (2005) the best and most reliable information given by employees is done so by exploring their own personal views. The literature review had enabled me to gather and link a good amount of research from theorists who have researched employee retention in depth. The above mentioned steps are executed systematically to achieve the desired goals and objectives. The first step in the research process is to identify the problem and set objective carefully and agree on the research objective. In an investigative and descriptive study as the one in particular can frame the objectives by breaking them into various investigative questions as stated in the above research objective section (Goddard W & Melville S, 2004). ... It is most expensive and most prone to error. The fourth step in research process is to analyze the collected data. The last step in the research process is that the representation of findings or ultimate deduction of the analysis drawn. According to the nature of research problem, it is beneficial to emphasize more on qualitative data rather than quantitative data. It is a proven fact that human behavior can be complex, interactive and consist of indescribable and illogical aspects (Goulding, 2002) particularly when discussing personal experiences. Denzin & Lincoln (no date) found that qualitative research is a method for examination, contribution, interviewing, and ethnography. It serves as a metaphor for majestic knowledge, for strength and for the truth (Denzin & Lincoln, no date), it really depends on the size of data you need. Both quantitative and qualitative are scientific, and the results will deliver a similar result, but each method has a different approach, and the result s are presented differently to the reader. Data Collection: Collection of data is one of the important aspects of research methodology. This consists of gathering the data from various sources. Types of data & Analysis: Data is important to collect the necessary information. Data may be of two types: primary and secondary data. Secondary data is one of the parts of research methodology through which information about the project can be collected. This particular research would be based both on the secondary and primary data information, different sources such as Journals, Books, Newspaper, Magazines, Internet, Articles and all authentic published relevant material would be referred for the accomplishment of the objectives and goals of the current project related to the

An Analysis of the Cadastral Systems Essay Example for Free

An Analysis of the Cadastral Systems Essay There is no prescribed organisational structure to these states, and land administration is a state government responsibility (Dalrymple, Williamson, Wallace, 2003). The South Australia Act was passed in 1834, allowing the Crown to establish one or more colonies in the south-west of what was then New South Wales; however it wasn’t until 1836 that Australia became a political entity of Britain (Painter, 2012). Not long after, New Zealand became a British colony through the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi in 1840, which proclaimed British Sovereignty over the land. The cadastres in New Zealand and Australia serve a similar primary function of issuing and tranfering title to land, as well as the registration of any interests relating to land (Cadastral Template, 2003). Having both developed from similar roots many similarities exist between the cadastral systems of New Zealand and South Australia, but as the individual countries have matured over years, and changes have occurred within Australia, so to have differences developed between the cadastral systems. This essay seeks to analyse the differences and similarities that exist between the cadastral systems of New Zealand and South Australia. As both New Zealand and South Australia were settled by the British they both adopted a deeds registration system as their initial method of registering rights in land. The Deeds Registration System was based upon the common law rule that â€Å"No man could confer better title then he had† (Hinde, 1971). It was an expensive, time consuming, and complex system that required deeds to be registered, so that title could be derived. Due to the law that allowed only equal title to be passed on, should a previous deed be invalid for whatever reason, all subsequent dealings were also made invalid. In the mid 1850’s Robert Torrens, the Registrar-General of Deeds, introduced his system of land transfer to South Australia, which simplified the flawed system, and provided better security of title (Weir, 2007). The Torrens system was introduced into legal statute through the passing of the Real Property Act 1858 (SA). The other states followed suit, adopting this improved system, by passing of their own acts, as did New Zealand, when it passed the Land Transfer Act 1870. The most important principle of this new system was that registration provides title, and upon registration a registered owner of a fee simple title is granted an indefeasible title, providing the transfer was bona fide (Hinde, 1971). Whilst one of the purposes of the Real Property Act 1858 and the Land Transfer Act 1870 was to abolish the Deeds system, some small amounts of land owned under Deed exist in New Zealand and South Australia, these parcels are usually limited as to parcels or title, and in South Australia the refer to this as the â€Å"Old System†. A majorhisorical difference between the developments of the cadastral systems in New Zealand and South Australia are the considerations given to native or aboriginal title. When the Treaty of Waitangi was signed in1840 Maori ownership of their land and properties was recognised. As a acknowledgment of Maoris relationship with the land, customary rights were provided for in the Treaty, which was later converted into Maori Freehold title through the Maori Land Court. However when Australia was settled the land was considered terra nullis and so soverigenty was proclaimed for the Crown, with no consideration given for the aboriginies. It was not until the passing of the Indigenous Natives Act in 1993 that any legal consideration was given to and aborigninal land rights. The Cadastral Survey Act 2002 and the Survey Act 2002 are similar pieces of legislation created by New Zealand and South Australia repectively. They are both concerned with promoting and maintaining the accuracy of the cadastre through the liscencing and registration of surveyors, and the the setting of standards. Both of these Acts require a Surveyor-General to be appointed as a statutory officer to oversee the cadastre, and this position is responsible for the spatial integrity of the cadastre (ICSM, 2011). The Cadastal Survey Act also setouts the functions of Land Information New Zealand (LINZ), of which the Surveyor-General is a component, as well as detailing his other major role, to set the standards which cadstral surverys must abide by. In South Australia however, this later role is undertaken by the Minister for Infrastructure under legislation which has been administered by the Surveyor-General (ICSM, 2011). The integrity of the cadastre is checked through the auditing of lodged plans by liscenced or registered surveyors. In New Zealand this is a function of the Surveyor-General, delegated to a group within LINZ. South Australia operates a slightly different system however with the Surveyor-General responsible for field audits whilst the Register-General is responsible for office audits (ICSM, 2011). Before any plan is registered it is subject to a quality check but there is some variation to the method which this is done. In New Zealand there is both an automatic checking system, as part of LINZ’s validation process, as well as a manual check list for items to difficult to automate (ICSM, 2011). South Australia utilises a two tier system, with checks being made on items deemed critical for issuing title or retaining the integrity of the cadastre. A complete check is made on the critical items on Non Endoresed Plans (relating to the old system) and 7% of Endorsed Plans, with the remaining plans receiving a basic check (ICSM, 2011). Another way through which the reliability of the cadastre is maintained is that all practising cadastral surveyors in New Zealand and South Australia are required to be liscened. In New Zealand liscencing is the responsibility of the Cadastral Surveyors Liscencing Board, with the most common method of gaining a liscence achieved by passing the New Zealand Institute of Surveyors (NZIS) examinations associated with the cadastral component of their membership (CSLB, 2012). In South Australia this is the responsibility of the Surveyors Board of South Australia who conduct their own examinations, and this board also provides the option to become a registered surveyor for non cadastral work too (ICSM, 2011). Licenced surveyors are the only people who can legally sign a cadastral survey, although the do not have completed all the work themselves. In New Zealand there is no restriction on who can do the wor,k or the level of supervision required. In South Australia however, it is expected that graduates will receive adequate supervision from a licenced cadastral surveyor until they are competent, and those who have no relevant training should always be supervised (ICSM, 2011). Although there is no specification for supervision in New Zealand it is common practice for a similar approach to South Australia to be taken, as the liscenced surveyor is responsible for everything that they sign until they are no longer liscenced or have deceased, and so they will want to be sure everything is being done correctly. New Zealand and Australia both maintain an integrated cadastral system. In New Zealand there is a single registry known as Landonline that combines the spatial and textual components associated with the cadastre. The Digital Cadastral Database (DCDB) plays an vital role to surveyors and other land professionals in New Zealand, as it serves as a index of all lodged survey data, has a spatial view of parcels, determines the extents of electoral boundaries, and aids in the validation of lodged surveyed (ICSM, 2011). Survey data for approximately 70% of the parcels in the country have been captured from existing survey plans to improve the quality of the existing DCDB. Points that meet the accuracy requirements are given Survey-accurate Digital Cadastre (SDC) status, which is used to validate new surveys, as well as being a vital tool for surveyors as it assures them of the data accuracy, and simplifies boundary definition. (Haanen Sutherland, 2002). The cadastre in New Zealand is not a legally coordinate cadastre, but can be considered to be a geodetic cadastre. This is due to the strong connection between the cadastral network and the geodetic network. Whenever the geodetic control marks are readjusted following resurvey, deformation, or addition of new or more accurate survey data, readjustment is required to the cadastre too as it connects to this dynamic network (LINZ, 2009). The integrated cadastre in South Australia is split into two separate components, a textual component compromising of legal and fisical information, and a spatial coponent which contains the DCDB and boundaries of the land parcels. These two compnents are linked by unique identifiers associated with parcels, points, boundaries, and polygons (Toms, Williiamson, Grant, 1988). The South Australian DCDB is purely a spatial index and used for a mapping tool. The DCDB does not contain the quality of survey accurate data that New Zealands does, as only around 19% of parcels have surveyed dimensions that can be captured into the dataset (ICSM, 2011). The South Australian cadastre has been undergoing reform, as the cadastral system in Australia consisted of isolated surveys, which were not all on the same referenced to the same network, and effort is being made to coordinate these into a combined dataset. South Australia, by working from the part to the whole (the opposite of the traditional survey concept) is moving to adopt a fully coordinated cadastre that is survey accurate (Cadastral Template, 2003). One of the fundamental elements of a modern cadastre is that all information in the cadastre should be public (Toms, Williiamson, Grant, 1988). In New Zealand the DCDB is not directly accessible by the public, as users have to have a licence to access Landonline, although there is some provision of data to third parties by Land Information New Zeland. Public generally have to go through a licenced surveyor or solicitor in order to get access to data in the cadastre. South Australia has a slightly better provision for the public, enabling a ‘view only’ version of the cadastre available (ICSM, 2011). It is important to not grant full access however, to prevent any unlicenced users from tampering with the cadastre and ruining its integrity. As Australia and New Zealand are very closely related countries it is not unexpected that the cadastral systems present within each nation are quite similar, especially both cadastres serve the same purpose of recording the transfer of land ownership and registering rights in land. The roots of their cadastral systems are traceable right back to the common law inherited rom Britain which has been the foundation for all legal matters in the two countries. However being separate countries, and South Australia having its own jurisdiction over its cadaster, variations do exist as the cadastres have evolved to meet the requirements of the country or state. The major differences existing between the cadastral is the integrated digital cadastre that is present in New Zealand, whilst it is still separated in South Australia, and the levels that the DCD B’s vary between the places.

Strategic Company Overview of Wimm-Bill-Dann

Strategic Company Overview of Wimm-Bill-Dann The objectives of a business are to achieve growth, become profitable and to satisfy the customers needs. Many businesses have not optimally achieved this but Wimm-Bill-Dann has utilized their strategies in achieving a significant growth and this has been through mergers and acquisitions. Company overview Wimm-Bill-Dann is a Russian company that deals with dairy products, nectars, fruit juices and baby food. It is a market leader across the Russian territory with its bestsellers, J-7 juice and agusha baby food. Its market extends from Russia, former soviet republics and 10 other countries all with more than 280 million consumers. Wimm-Bill-Dann has 37 plants in Russia, Ukraine, Georgia and central Asia. The company mission is ensuring that families live a healthy life by enjoying the companys nutritious products each day throughout their entire lifespan. The company has several committees whose aim is to ensure that the companys objectives are achieved. These committees include audit committee, investment and strategic planning committee and personnel and compensation committee. The audit committees goals and objectives are to assist the board of directors in carrying their responsibility in matters concerning preparation of financial statements, ensuring that there is an effective internal control, ensuring liaising and working with internal auditors and keeping with the requirements of legislative and normative acts. The audit committee may meet once per quarter fiscal year. The investment and strategic planning committee assists the directors in approving and carrying out its responsibility concerning mergers and acquisitions, strategic planning and investment programs. The committee meets not less than once in each quarter of a fiscal year. The personnel and compensation committee assist in the selection of the board of directors and help in the formulation and implementing of uniform personnel policy in all of its branches, personnel appraisal, training policy, dismissal of employees, remuneration and compensation policy and corporate ethics. The company is committed to the principles of transparency and corporate governance that is excellent. The corporate governance strength include high level of shareholder arrangement transparency, commitment to the practice of good corporate governance and the statement of the corporate governance code, being open to the investors where high level of financial and operational transparency is maintained and the presence of an effective and efficient oversight mechanism for the internal and external audit process. Financial strategies The company has solid financial strategies which ensure that it maintains financial stability and growth as depicted by its results. One of the company strategies in raising finances to fund its ambitious objective of acquisitions is the placing of bonds. The recent placing of bonds by the company was on 15th march 2008 with Moscow inter-bank currency exchange and this attracted a large number of investors. This attraction of many investors shows the great trust investors have with the company. The company financial results show that it has been on the growth phase. The results are analysed quarterly from 3 months of 2007 to 3 months of 2008.This is shown in the table below. 3 Months of 2007 6months of 2007 9 months of 2007 Financial year 2007 3 months of 2008 Gross sales rose 40.1% year-on-year to US$542.8 million rose 40.5% year-on-year to US$1,142.8 million rose 40.4% year-on-year to US$1,758.3 million 38.4% growth to US$2,438.3 million rose 34.8% year-on-year to US$731.9 million Gross profit increased 53.3% with gross margins increasing to 32.0% from 29.3% increased 48.8% to US$377.8 million increased 43.4% to US$578.4 million increased 26.2% to US$219.5 million increased 26.2% to US$219.5 million Operating income income increased 73.1% to US$51.4 million rose 44.3% to US$108.4 million rose 30.2% to US$168.3 million rose 24.5% to US$214.0 million increased 23.2% to US$63.4 million net income increased 84.8% to US$32.1 million increased 40.8% to US$65.8 million rose 30.2% to US$168.3 million increased 29.0% to US$140.0 million EBTDA increased 58.8% to US$70.4 million, EBITDA margin1 increased to 13.0% from 11.4% increased 40.3% to US$147.2 million increased 30.9% to US$229.4 million increased 29.0% to US$90.7 million increased 29.0% to US$90.7 million Earning per Share grew to US$2.40 from US$1.50 grew to US$3.18 from US$2.17 increased 30.6% to US$41.9 million The company profit has been growing at a high rate and this shows that there is an increase in sales of the products of the company and hence the business has managed to achieve one of the objectives of becoming profitable. We also see that earning per share is on the increase and this proves that the capital base of the company is on an increasing trend and so the investors are reaping from their investment. Diversification and acquisition strategy of Wimm-Bill-Dann Diversification of products involves manufacture and the sale of different line of products. This is important in reducing risks in an organization as risks will be spread within different portfolios. In order to expand and get hold of its market, Wimm-Bill-Dann has effectively used the merger and acquisition strategy to expand its business. The company has different range of products from milk products, bottled water and different kind of juice which provide its customers with a wide choice of products to purchase. One of the greatest acquisitions by Wimm-Bill-Dann is the acquisition of 95% stake in Depsona ZAO which is a leading Tula based juice and concentrates plant worth 34 million USA dollars. After this acquisition, Wimm-Bill-Dann placed itself strategically as a major fruit juice and concentrate producer in central Russia. The acquisition has given Wimm-Bill-Dann a chance to access locally grown raw material hence minimizing production cost. Depsona products were under three brands which are Depsona, Fructopak and limbo. The factory is use to produce Wimm-Bill-Dann brands national brands and act as a distribution hub for them. On September 2006, Wimm-Bill-Dann Foods announced 100% acquisition of charter capital of Surgut city Dairy plant of Russia which was the largest milk processing plant in the region. The acquisition has enabled Wimm-Bill-Damm to be a leading company and to expand its market of Ural and Siberia. This acquisition has enabled the company to reduce the expenditure on logistics since there is reduced need for transporting products within different regions. Wimm-Bill-Dann now produces under its own brand at Surgut dairy. On September 2003, Will-Bill-Dann food announced the acquisition of an additional 47.7% of the equity capital of Ufamolagroprom hence increasing its total shareholding to 97%. Ufamolagroprom is the largest plant for the processing and production of dairy products in the republic of Bashkortostan. Originally the plant had a capacity of production of 240 tons of processed milk but now it has a capacity of 600 tons. The plant produce is sold under well-known Russian brands such as happy milk man, doctor Bifi and wonder. The brands distinct and attractive packaging gives it an upper hand in the market. In October 2007, Wimm-Bill-Dann acquired Georgian foods ltd which is based in Tbilisi, Georgia. This is in the companys strategy of growing its business by purchase of high performing companies with strong brand portfolio and having a large market size. Georgia food is one of the largest dairy producers in Georgia. This will enable the company to serve local demand of Georgia and supply the products to the adjacent market of Armenia and Azerbaijan. In September 2003, Wimm-Bill-Dann acquired Essentuki water production and bottling facilities. The company acquired OOOHealing spring which produces Essentuki brand mineral water and OOOGeyser, owner of Essentuki water wells. The transaction was worth 4 million US dollars. This resulted in the manufacturing facility of Wimm-Bill-Dann to be 24. Through this acquisition, the company has been able to provide its customer with highest quality goods as per its strategy in ensuring that the customer needs are satisfied. In 2006, Wimm-Bill-Dann announced the acquisition of Molka Company in Russias Irkutsk region, one of the largest companies that processes milk in eastern Siberia. The purchase of Molka allows Wimm-Bill-Dann to expand into the Siberian market. The companys presence in Irkutsk allows the company to reduce the expenditure incurred during the transportation of the products. Risk management strategy The company has several risks which it faces whilst in operation. Currency risk is one of the risks that the company faces as most of its sales are in Rubles, while bulk cost is in hard currency. Operational risks which occur when there is a disruption of raw material supply and increase in the price of raw milk. Competition risk is one of the biggest risk the company faces. The Russian economy is growing in two digit figure and due to this it has attracted the attention of both domestic and international competitors. International companies have offered the greatest challenge to the company because of their strong financial strength, they have well experienced, motivated and well learned human resource pool, strong management information system which include very modern management information system which is superior than those found in Wimm-Bill-Dann and marketing capability from these company that have a worldwide presence such as Coca-Cola company. There are several international companies which compete with WIMM-Bill-Dann, the top companies being Coca-Cola Company, Nestle and Danone. Coca cola is the largest soft drink company in the world. It owns four of the five world top brands which include Fanta, Coca-Cola, Sprite and Diet Coke. The company has worldwide recognition due to its high quality and uniformity in taste. It also has a very strong financial base and so it can easily expand to any territory in the world. Due to this, it has provided the greatest competition to soft drink segment of Wimm-Bill-Dann as most of the people have trust in its products. The company also has many franchise and high powered advertisements which are superior to wimm-bill-dann and hence offer a great competition. Nestle is the world largest food company in term of production and sales. It is also one of the largest bottled water makers, equipment for surgery and cosmetics. This company has a worldwide presence and its brands are highly respected around the world. The company has a strong financial background, good marketing strategies which provide it with a great opportunity to penetrate any market. This company has provided Wimm-Bill-Dann Company with big competition especially in the food manufacturing segment as it has penetrated Russian market Danone is one of the largest dairy food and water producers in the world. It is a world largest company producing cultured dairy products. This is the largest competitor to Wimm-Bill-Dann in the production of milk products as it has penetrated the Russian market. Human resource strategy The company has a well formulated human resources policy which ensures that the employees are highly motivated to ensure that they are productive. The company has formulated human resources strategy that is in line with those that directly deal with expanding through acquisition. The company has a policy which ensures that labour regulations are strictly followed and that all documents relating to labour law are maintained. The company ensures that the process of recruitment are fair and transparent in which there is no discrimination against sex ,age ,race or any prejudice against anyone. The company has a policy in which it ensures that employees are well compensated for their work and that they are offered good remuneration which will motivate them to perform well since people are an important entity in any organization. Staffing according to human resources strategy follows demand and supply of labour. The company has made several high level appointments recently. For example in Moscow may 12 2008,the company announced the appointment of Dmitry Ivanov as the chief financial officers who has 17 years of experience in financial field. Business strategy of Wimm-Bill-Dann The company has excellently utilized its business strategy in ensuring that it leads in the market in terms of business .Before merging, water business was run separately with its own finance and marketing departments, workforce and distribution network. Merging enabled the company to reduce the cost involved in administration, selling and distribution expenses. This will allow the company to enjoy the economies of scale in terms of transportation and distributorship. Also to reduce the overall cost, the dairy business was restructured so that all the transactions are directed from a central point where there is the overall management. In order to increase the output of milk, the company built a mega farm complex near St Petersberg. The farm has more than 1200 milking cows. Information system strategy The company has a modern information system strategy which ensures that work in the company is well organized and made easier. The company uses Oracle, a provider of enterprise software. This project covers all the key areas of the corporate activity which include marketing, finance, distribution, logistics and distribution at all of the companys enterprises in Russia. These processes assist in quick and effective management decision and ensure that they are successfully completed. New ERP system assists in the finance department especially in accounting reporting in both Russian standards and international standards. Marketing strategy The company has a well-developed market strategy which has enabled it to perform well in Russia. It has different brands and through this, it provides the consumer with a wide choice. Through vigorous advertisement, it has been able to capture the attention of many customers in Russia and other part of Russia. After acquisition of different companies, it has maintained the original brand names and packaging. This is important as it will maintain the old customer for the brands of the acquired company. Strategies that should be put to ensure that the company achieves further growth Marketing strategy Although the company has a solid marketing strategy but it has to put more effort in having access to the global market. It should put more effort in promotion of its products to other parts of the world that it has not accessed the market. It should explore potential market such as countries in Africa. The Company should borrow ideas from the strategies set by the Coca Cola Company. The company should also consider operating under franchise system in ensuring that its products are well distributed to the market. The company should increase the number and variety of products and through this, the company will provide its customer with a choice of products to choose from. The company should ensure that its branding and packaging are of high standard and should change with customers change in taste and fashion. The company should consider using marketing tools such as swot analysis in ensuring that it maintains its control of Russian market and as a mean to survive in an environment that has stiff competition. Information system strategy Although the company has an efficient management information system such as ERP accounting software, it should consider using more than one software when performing a given task. It should look for a way in which the systems are integrated. This is to ensure that efficiency is maintained and the work done is accurate. This will also ensure that fraud activities are minimized. Merger and acquisition strategy The company should maintain its strategy in merging and acquiring other companies. It should consider buying stakes in competing companies to reduce the effect of stiff competition from major multinational companies. For example it would be wise if they considered buying some stakes in the Coca Cola Company. Through this, it will borrow some ideas and skills concerning the businesses and hence improve on its performance. The company should acquire more companies in the markets in which it has not ventured. For example; it should buy companies in African countries such as those in South Africa. Human resources strategy It is people who make an organization to grow. To ensure that it has a rich pool of human resources, it should consider efficient training for workers to keep them updated on new skills so that the company can keep pace with other major multinational company in terms of human resources. The company should also increase the number of university fresh graduates who are undergoing management training. This is important in that it will gain new skills and different ideas from these graduates and this will assist the company in growth. Conclusion Will-Bill-Dann is a promising company with one of the best strategies. Its acquisition strategy has made the company to have good reputation and respect. Through its hardwork and well thought policies, the company is fast growing into one of the largest multinational companies. Through this, the company acts as a role model for other companies to emulate it.

Jilting in William Faulkners A Rose for Emily and Katherine Anne Porte

Jilting in William Faulkner's "A Rose for Emily" and Katherine Anne Porter's "The Jilting of Granny Weatherall" Webster’s dictionary defines the word â€Å"jilt† as the act of rejecting a lover. So to be deserted by another, left at the altar, or unwanted by another, is to be jilted. In William Faulkner’s â€Å"A Rose for Emily† and in â€Å"The Jilting of Granny Weatherall† by Katherine Anne Porter, Emily and Granny Weatherall throughout the course of their lives experience jilting several times. In turn, this rejection places a significant emphasis on both of their lives. After Emily’s father passes away in â€Å"A Rose for Emily,† Emily’s sweetheart rejects her. The only man that her father must have approved of ran out on her, leaving her all alone. It must have been unbearable for Emily, to loose the two most important people in her life within such a short time of each other. Emily’s father, Mr. Grierson sent away all of the young men who had come to court her. They were not â€Å"quite good enough† for his little girl. He shut her off from society by standing in the front door â€Å"clutching a horsewhip.† He did not allow Emily to go into town to see how people lived their life. Nor did he allow her to meet people and make friends. Instead, Emily’s father kept her in the house and isolated her from society. This isolation caused Emily to become resistant to change. With no one to turn to in her time of need, Emily was forced into a period of isolation. Because her father had isolated her for the first thirty years of her life, being secluded from the community was all she knew. The narrator (the town) points out, â€Å"After her father’s death she went out very little; after her sweetheart went away, people hardly saw her at all.† By iso... ...gain no bridegroom and the priest in the house. She could not remember any other sorrow because this grief wiped them all away. Oh, no there’s nothing more cruel than this ¾I’ll never forgive it. She stretched herself with a deep breath and blew out the light.† This second jilting at death makes the first jilting by George more moving and intensely powerful. The light, which she blows out, represents her life and she descends into the blackness of death, jilted again. Being rejected by a lover can have a major impact on one’s life as it did for Emily, in â€Å"A Rose for Emily† and as it did for Granny, in â€Å"The Jilting of Granny Weatherall.† One must find it in their heart to forgive and forget and move on with their life. The jilting of Emily and Granny Weatherall shows how time changes and how it must be embraced, for better or for worse, because the past is no more.

Speech on Euthanasia -- Euthanasia is Murder

Speech on Euthanasia I stand before you today in confrontation. I stand before you today equal to any man. I stand before you today with a challenge! I challenge any man who deems, their morals, their ethics, their beliefs, their conscience enough to find themselves fit to judge others. I challenge any man who deems himself fit to pass judgement upon another’s life. I challenge any man who believes they can play god. I challenge any man who believes in euthanasia. How can you believe in something you cannot justify? There is no justification in euthanasia so how can it even be considered to be preformed, how could anyone ever justify the taking of another’s life. A mercy killing is the literal definition of the word euthanasia, tell me, where is the mercy in killing. Death and murder have no variations, no catalysts or pathways leading around them, murder and death are what they are. Therefore how can anyone make that decision, the decision upon another’s life? What could ever drive a person to believe they have a power others do not, the power of life and death. That they can decide who lives and who dies, and by what aspects can they base such a decision? Whether a life is worthy or not, whether they are using life justly or just wasting it, are they just a drain on society, are they productive in society. By that analysis of life any person who has no job and so drains on society, any person who has no positive aspect on life should be killed? Is that their idea? That just because the body cannot perform a duty then the mind is not worth its life. They say that they can no longer produce commodities, they are like an old m... ...nasia can be a lazy option. Doctors may never realise they have anything to learn. Few things are more rewarding to me than visiting someone dying at home, relieving pain and other symptoms so the person can start to live again. Restoring dignity, quality of life and giving people back control over their lives is far better than fatal injections. Most people are visibly relieved when they are told euthanasia is not an option. When symptoms are properly controlled, fears dealt with, practical help is provided and people feel safe, it is very rare for people to ask again for death by euthanasia. No my companions, we will not give up, we will not frail away from the fight, we will stand firm and oppress that which is euthanasia, we will not let it be legalised, for to legalise euthanasia would be to legalise murder.

New England colonies :: essays research papers

The people who settled in the New England Colonies were the Separatist Puritans called Pilgrims and the New Englanders would come to prosper through their hard work, thrift, and the quality of their commitment to God and each other. The settlement pattern in New England Colonies during 1600 to first half of 1700 was designed in clustered housing and small agricultural fields. The king will give out land and the settlement set up will include a meeting house, a village commons, large open lots which is very large and it contains kitchens and places where animals are kept and agricultural highland. The highlands were beautiful fields divided into segments and planting and harvesting were done together as a family. Land preparation for farming and animal rearing was done using a method called girdling – tree killing. They will cut around each tree to stop nutrient from getting to the tree and the leaves will later felled down. They will now come back and cut the branches of the trees and burn the underbrush. Farmer starts plowing as the trees stumps decays and stones will be removed from the fields. Fields for farming are always small because of labor and there are boundaries between fields and the neighbors. The house or the farm was viewed as the workplace. And land given out to each family will be fenced to stop cattle from wandering off going into the farm areas. The land allocated to each family will show the family social status within the community. The towns developed individually and community involvement was given a great significant although the community was close knit. The society during the New England colonies comprises of different three social classes. The lowest in the social order is the slaves and were for the most part domestic servants, and they usually received mild and humane treatment, were instructed in religion and morals, and were not infrequently admitted to the family circle. The next class is the social ladder is the most numerous of all, comprised the traders, shop-keepers, and small farmers. Most people in this class were moderately educated, religious, comfortable and wealthy. The uppermost class comprises of the ruling class, which in New England includes the clergy, magistrates, college professors, and other professional men. The government in New England is divided into three bodies: The governor, the council and the Assembly. The Governor was appointed by the Crown - The governor represented the Crown directly.

Flannery O’Connor’s “A Good Man is Hard To Find” Essay

Throughout Flannery O’Connor’s â€Å"A Good Man is Hard To Find†, hints are given to the readers that foretell what is in store, foreshadowing the grotesque ending that is to come. These insinuations of the forthcoming become coincidences later in the story when they actually do develop into reality, creating mocking irony. The names within the story can be considered foreshadowing themselves. For example, the name of the town where the family is murdered is called â€Å"Toombsboro.† The word â€Å"Toombsboro† can be separated into two words: Tombs and Bury. These are words that signify death. The fact that the author chose this as a name for the town, implies the foul event that will insure later in the story. The first moment that foreshadowed the future was the article about the Misfit that the grandmother showed Bailey. She told him, â€Å"A Misfit is aloose from the Federal Pen and headed toward Florida†¦I wouldn’t take my children in any direction with a criminal like that aloose in it.†(368) This moment sets up a major coincidence when the family later runs into the Misfit. Plus, it was an irony because the Grandmother had attempted to persuade the family not to go in the direction the Misfit was heading. Yet, unfortunately only June Star paid any attention to the comment, and the family did run into the criminal. Additionally, a less obvious evidence of foreshadowing occurred when June Star announced, â€Å"She [The Grandmother] wouldn’t stay at home for a million bucks. She has to go everywhere we go†(368) This can be read as a direct foreshadowing of the order and occurrence of the grandmother’s death. When the family comes across the Misfit, and each family member is taken into the forest, the reader wonders why every time Bobby Lee and Hiram return without the family member. Eventually, one realizes they have all been killed. So, June Star’s comment that the grandmother goes everywhere the family goes can be read as a signal that she will meet the same end that they did. Plus, the fact that she follows the family indicated that she would die last.Furthermore, although the grandmother did not want to go to Florida, she still unpredictably dresses up. The grandmother wore, â€Å"A navy blue straw sailor hat with a bunch of white violets on the brim and a savvy blue dress with a small white dot in the print. Her collars and cuffs were white organdy trimmed with lace and at her neckline she had pinned a purple spray of cloth violets containing a sachet.† (369) O’Connor says that the reason for the grandmother’s proper dress was, â€Å"in case of an accident, anyone seeing her  dead on the highway would know at once that she was a lady.†(369) She therefore foresaw her own death, or at least foreshadowed it. It also shows how she represents the properness and rich religious beliefs of the south. Yet another foreshadowing is portrayed when the family â€Å"passed by a cotton field with five or six graves fenced in the middle of it, like a small island† (370). It is not an accident that there are five or six graves, which evidently matches the exact number of people in the car. Five people and the sixth is the baby. The baby is not precisely a full complete person, hence the ambiguity of the number of graves. Flannery O’Connor uses foreshadowing to give the readers slight hints of what is to come, foretelling the grotesque fate of the family. Insinuations are made through titles, comments, clothes, and sites, setting the scene for surprising irony later in the family’s journey.

Compare of Pizza Hut and Domino’s Pizza Essay

In the land of tandoori rotis and masala dosas, does Italian food have any place? Yes, says the statistics. The pizza industry is really sizzling with hectic activity. The 150 Cr industry growing at an annual rate of 50% is expanding at a frantic pace. Organized food service is characterized by a chain of outlets using a uniform brand identity across all outlets, centralized procurement of supplies, focus on quality, standardization and safety from supplier’s uniformity in product menus across outlets, uniform taste, existence of strong controls and the use of technology. Indian taste buds are demanding more and pizza industry – one of the most intensive industry is all gearing on. People across the country are consuming over three million pizzas a month currently, and the monthly sales figures are projected to double in the next four years. According to industry data, of the total branded quick service restaurant market of over Rs 1,200 crore, the pizza chains contribute around 50 per cent of the sales. Indian perception:- Food diversity in India is implicit characteristic of India’s diversified culture consisting of different regions & states within. Traditionally Indian like to have home cooked meals – a concept supported religiously as well as individual. However with time due to increase awareness and influence of western culture. There is a shift in food consumption patterns among urban Indian families. Social economic change attitude of middlemen. It started eating out and moved to accepting a wide variety of delicacies from world over. Consequently post 1990’s saw many international food chains entering into the country. Liberalization of Indian economy in early 1990 and subsequent entry of new players set a significant change in lifestyle and food taste of Indian. Pizza as a food item as a gained acceptance of Indian palate after multinationals fast food players†¦

Perrier Research

Perrier Synopsis Perrier, French mineral water, made apperance in a unique source with a long history. The Legend dates back to 218 B. C. , Hannibal and his army set up camp on the site now known as â€Å"Les Bouillens† (French for bubbling), while on their way to Rome after the Spanish campaign. The Romans came later and were also the first to build baths at the site of the spring. Towards the end of the 18th century, Dr. Perrier took over the estate of Les Bouillens, which the Granier family had equipped with a bottling plant for mineral water earlier that century.Perrier was a respected physician and he wrote countless articles about the benefits of this mineral water, which he also prescribed to many of his patients. Oddly enough, it was an Englishman called Harmsworth who made Perrier world famous. He was also responsible for the development of the new distinctive bottle in 1903, the design of which was inspired by the Indian exercise clubs he used to stay in shape. Becau se of his acute business sense and good connections, Harmsworth managed to become the supplier to the British army in the then colony of India. This enabled him to reach many British subjects in due course.This success was followed by similar successes in England where Perrier even became the preferred water at Buckingham Palace. The Perrier source is complicated from a geological point of view. The source is situated to the north of the small town of Vergeze on the way to Nimes and is surrounded by limestone. The carbon dioxide used in Perrier does not come from the same borehole as the Perrier water; the two are combined at a later stage of the process. Case Analysis Strengths †¢ Well-know and positive reputation. †¢ Reliability †¢ Competent Research and development †¢ Good-looking Image in consumer’s eyes. Weaknesses Higher price than other firms’ bottled water. †¢ Perrier’s bottles are not so handy to the buyers in a hurry. †¢ T oo many label for each bottled product could make consumer confused. Opportunities †¢ Constant growth of health-conscious consumers. †¢ Asian market is challenging to give a try. †¢ Advertising could play more role than ever if Perrier can be able to come up with new one. Threats †¢ Other companies with cheaper bottled water are main challenge. †¢ Local companies’ products would always be a first option for local buyers over Perrier. †¢ Loyalty of buyers could change anytime if other companies can offer better price and so on.The Five Force Framework The Threat of Potential Entrants Barriers to entry are relatively high since brand recognition is incredibly important. Additionally, larger firms experience significant benefits from economies of scope and scale, making it difficult for new entrants to match their operational efficiencies. Independent brands are able to find success in niche and local markets. Bargaining Power of Buyers Depending on their buyer, buyer power can range from low to medium. Perrier represent roughly 20% of sparkling bottled water segment. However, these relationships are contractual so few changes can be made.Beyond this, other buyers of other products have low power because they are in their own market and strong brand names grant them pricing power in most markets. Bargaining power of suppliers Supplier power for Perrier is medium. I believe that since there are several competitors in this market, suppliers can be persuaded by alluring proposition from other peer competitors. If the competitors can offer more interesting proposition than Perrier could, the situation could be changed dramatically. As a result, Perrier should has its own contract suppliers to supply products.Threat of  Substitutes The threat of substitutes is medium to high. If we consider solely on Perrier’s market , there are many competitive firms trying hard to be the market leader despite Perrier’s largest mar ket share. The competition in this market is filled with emerging companies every year, so we can conclude that if Perrier perishes, no one cares. Substitute products are all over the market as much as consumers grow. Threat of Competitive Rivals Apart from the main competitors of Perrier, Khisu has seized the market share in some cities in United States.Thus, There are many competitors powerful enough to challenge Perrier in this market. So Perrier should be aware and alert of any move from the other companies so as to be ready to take immediate action if the others start moving. Conclusion From the above analysis, Perrier has the very famed brand recognition in consumers’ eyes but nothing lasts long since there are still a lot of competitors ready to replace the number one rank in this market. With Kishu’s in effort to make a foothold in the market, it is not easy for Perrier to thrive greatly in the market.Thus, it is still a long way to go for Perrier on its way ah ead. Furthermore, its new advertisement, as we know it, would still need a lot of improvement in order to catch consumers’ eyes since it looks less unlikely to succeed. As a result, Perrier needs to be careful with everything it’s dealing with right now; advertisement, slight loss in market share and so on. Question Q. Should the advertising agency’s idea be accepted? As far as I’m concerned, the commercial idea from the agency have not impressed consumer to satisfactory degree since the tone and mood of the commercial did not match people lifestyle.The idea of beautiful sleeping woman being bitten by Dracula and the following line â€Å"†¦it’s good, but it’s not Perrier† do not convey much essence of why Perrier is better than blood. The idea is to be a metaphor that blood is as necessary for life as Perrier water, but the way people thinking about it would be a joke. Don’t forget that Perrier’s look is considered a high-end product, but the commercial give us a picture of fun thought rather than premium product. Q. How should Perrier be promoted at this stage in its life? Perrier should come up with something more incisive, majestic and premium look in terms of TV commercial.Additionally, Perrier can make use of other advertising approaches such as holding up luxurious events occasionally to remain a noble look in consumers’ eyes, but somehow tie in its story with the events. To sum up, In this life stage of Perrier, it does not need too many unimportant commercials since it does not need to get consumer out of its target, but what it needs to do is try to keep the brand as premium as possible and to keep old customer to remain loyal for long time. ———————– Potential Entrants Buyers Suppliers Substitutes Competitive Rival

Personal Study †Northern Lights By Stephen Grant Essay

I have recently enjoyed studying a novel by Philip Pullman entitled Northern Lights. The main idea of the novel is about a girl who is travelling north to find her kidnapped friend and other children. She also wanted to give her father something. The novel was a delightful account of how the girl developed and became wiser throughout the story. The main element of the novel I am going to look at is how Lyra develops throughout the course of the novel. Pullman describes the development and determination of the character through characterisation. The author uses effective skills to develop the protagonist into becoming a wiser, more mature and a more courageous person. At first I found Lyra to be naà ¯Ã‚ ¿Ã‚ ½ve and headstrong but as her character develops she learns more about how the world works. There is one thing in her I feel was with her through the novel. This was her courage. I feel that she is consistently courageous to the extent of the plot. Here is quote from the start of the novel in which her background story is told. ‘She was proud of her college’s eminence and liked to boast of it to various ragamuffins she played with by the canal or clay beds.’ Jordan College adopted Lyra when she was very young as her mother and father had died. She likes to think of it as ‘her college’ and is very proud of it. However, she is not educated at the college and there fore has a lot of spare time which she uses to play with street children. This shows her character to be of a young naà ¯Ã‚ ¿Ã‚ ½ve and mischievous nature. This next quote shows the characters childish nature. ‘In many ways Lyra was a barbarian. What she liked best was clambering over the college roofs with Roger, the kitchen boy, who was her particular friend.’ This quote proves that she can form strong friendships. Another aspect of her character covered by this quotation is her distinct courage and she crawls around the high rooftops of the college. Either this or she is just childlike and does not realise the possible consequences of her actions. Interesting vocabulary in this quotation include: ‘clambering’ which suggests to me the impression of a child’s clumsy and ungainly movement, ‘barbarian’ use of this suggests they had their own little tribe and that she was fierce, brutal or a cruel person. Further on in the text Lyra runs away from a woman who captured her and is now left on the streets. She is confronted by a drunken man who offers her some brandy and shows a few more of her qualities. ‘Where are you going all alone like this’ ‘Going to meet my father’ ‘And who is he?’ ‘He’s a murderer’ ‘Ah! You’re joking’ ‘I en’t’ ‘Good night’ he said Here she promptly lies to the man and makes up a story about her father so the man will leave her alone. This proves that the man did not fool her and her character has grown from being naà ¯Ã‚ ¿Ã‚ ½ve to being sensible and no longer childlike. It also displays her newfound talent for lying. In the quotation she is also using informal language, trying to fit into her surroundings. The next quotation confirms that Lyra is determined to achieve her goal and it also shows her stubbornness. ‘You’ve done your part Lyra.’ ‘But I en’t done nothing yet!’ Lyra protested as she followed the others. Lyra has joined with ‘The Gyptians’ she is trying to convince them to go north with her to try and find the kidnapped children. The Gyptians disagree and tell her it would be too dangerous for her to go. However, she rebels and ends up forcing her way with them. This shows stubbornness, her determination to achieve her goal and again her courage. Near the climax of the story, Lyra is in the prison camp and is trying to listen into a conversation through the air duct above the room. ‘Lyra was trembling. The blood was pounding in her ears’ She is listening in on the conversation and finds out about all the terrible thing they do to children there but she keeps listening until they leave. This demonstrates that she is fearful in some ways but she can control this fear and listen on. This reveals that she is brave and courageous. She gathers a group together so they can escape now she knows what would happen to them. This proves she has strong leadership qualities. When everyone agrees to go with her they promptly escape from the camp. The next quote establishes that she is a quick thinker. ‘A movement later she had turned on all the gas taps and flung a match at the nearest burner.’ This is a quote from a section of the book where Lyra is destroying a building as a distraction so they can escape from the camp. It shows great creativity and a benefit of her patchwork upbringing, where she has learned a few useful things. I think this was one good quality that she learned from when playing with her friends. The following quote also shows that she is a quick thinker and creative. ‘Then she dragged a bag of flour from the shelf and hurled it at the edge of the table so it burst and filled the air with white, because she heard that flour will explode if treated like that near flames.’ I feel that the use of the word ‘white’ is effective because it describes the atmosphere in the room at that time. It would have made it feel like there was a curtain of mist in front of them and may have made them feel claustrophobic and confused. The next quotes describes Lyra’s ‘patchwork’ upbringing. ‘Lyra’s Knowledge has great gaps in it, like a map of the world largely eaten by mice†¦.’ This highlights that she has had education put together by small pieces of information and learns things as she goes along. The quote is a effective example of this because you can just imagine the world with pieces of the map missing, like he education. This quote is also a simile. From my study of characterisation of Lyra, I have concluded that throughout the course of the novel she matures significantly as a person. Her initial character features were: naà ¯Ã‚ ¿Ã‚ ½vetà ¯Ã‚ ¿Ã‚ ½, being headstrong, being childlike and being courageous. These are now replaced by characteristics such as: maturity, courage and sensibility. I think that the author has employed great skill and achieved a great goal in the creation of Lyra.

Write a paragraph for each questions using your own word Essay - 5

Write a paragraph for each questions using your own word - Essay Example This implies that the existence of nature is proof enough of the existence of God. And since every human on this planet is exposed to nature it can only be the mind’s irrationality that can deny such an existence. The answer to why God does not protect us from evil lies in the concept of the purpose of this universe’s creation. Surely, evil exists. But this universe and this life as we know it is a test. If God were to use us as puppets making us do whatever He wants us to do, there would have been no reason behind the universe’s creation, again referring to the teleological argument; even human artifacts have a purpose (Palley 325). And there is no point of testing your own puppet. And we should protect our children from evil because we are not ‘perfect’. A ‘perfect’ being will do the job completely leaving no room for any evil to enter. But, we in all our imperfection can only try. We can’t turn our children into puppets even if we intend to. Not everything is black and white. And so in this question too we see shades of grey. Their views can be considered atheistic because of the insignificance with which they consider this phenomenon. But, it is the way of expression that they are talking about and not the existence of God. So it can be concluded that these thinkers are merely atheistic in their concept of expression. Palley, William. Natural Theology; or, Evidences of the Existence and Attributes of the Deity. 12th. Philadelphia: Philadelphia : Printed for John Morgan, No. 51, South Second-Street by H. Maxwell, no. 25, North Second-Street,

How Wi-Fi Works Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

How Wi-Fi Works - Essay Example Considering the significance that Wi-Fi has in technological development and advancement, it is essential that critical analysis is done on its mode of operation (Harrington 18). Based on such a perspective, this paper discusses and analyzes the operation mechanics of Wi-Fi, in easier terms, how Wi-Fi works. As already stated above, Wifi is a technological aspect that allows for the sharing of data and internet connectivity, where it emits frequencies between 2.4 to 5 ghz depending on the data amount available on the network used (Trulove 102). This is a very higher frequency compared to that used by cell phones and televisions and hence allows for the distribution of more data. It is projected that by the pace of current technological development, it will be possible to access the wireless network from any part of the world at any one particular time. One aspect of substantive significance in the study of technology and most especially the wireless technology is that despite its widespread use across the globe, very few individuals actually understand even the basics involved in the operation of these wireless technologies (Wei 61). Like other wireless connections, Wifi uses radio waves for the transmission of information over a particular network (Wei 78), with a major advantage of its high compatibility with almost all operating systems, over other many technologies. However, one critical contrast about Wifi in comparison to other wireless connections is that whereas other wireless connections require access points and routers, essential for the coordination of network traffic for many clients, Wifi operates without any access point instead it supports ad hoc mode connection type allowing devices to network in a peer-to-peer fashion (Harrington 29). In their operation, Wifi works with 802.11 standards of networking (Trulove 107).

Business Report Coursework Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Business Report - Coursework Example 50,000. ?25,000 would be borrowed capital, which would be used in refurbishing the retail premises while the other ?25,000 from my savings would be used in the purchase of the required stock as well as the initial running costs. Type of Business The type of business to be established would be a partnership business. In a partnership business, the law requires that at least two partners form the business. According to the Partnership Act 1890, a partnership business should consist of at least two partners with common business with a view of making profits (legislation.gov.uk, 2013). A partnership is typically an agreement between at least two people willing to finance and operate a given business. The minimum number of the people forming the business is two. Unlike some other forms of business such as sole proprietorship, partnership businesses are entities, which are separate from their partners. In a general partnership, losses and profits flow all through to the tax returns of the partners. In this case, the general partners have equal authorities and responsibilities in running the business. All partners need to be involved in everyday activities of the partnership business (Entrepreneur Media, Inc., 2013). All general partners are involved in making decisions. The law also gives any partner to represent the partnership business even without the other partners’ knowledge. ... These procedures are regardless of whether the partnership would be general, limited, family, or incorporated. The following steps would have to be followed: i. First, we have to determine the number of partners. In our case, the business would be formed by two partners, my friend and I. We would agree between ourselves, as the business partners on, the most important or key issues. One of the key issues to be considered is the limits of liabilities. The limits of liability could be set according to our capital investment, contribution to the business, or the use of goodwill. We would also agree on the level of authority that each of us would hold concerning the partnership business and its operations. Such agreement on authority level would mainly reflect on the issue of making binding agreements and signing contracts on the partnership’s behalf (Global Syndicated News, 2012). ii. Secondly, we would draw up a legal Partnership Agreement that would highlight the key aspects of the partnership business including the roles, liabilities, and authority with regard to each partner. Under the same agreement, we would state about the distribution of assets and profits. In the Partnership Agreement, we would consider partnership elements such as the business name, terms of the agreement, capital employed, provisions of profits and losses, salaries and withdrawals, restrictions and management duties, banking, books to be used, voluntary termination, cases of death, as well as arbitration. Each of these elements would be stated clearly in our Partnership Agreement (The Wall Street Journal, 2013). iii. We would then proceed with an application for a Tax File Number (TFN) for our business (The Wall Street Journal, 2013). iv. We would also

McDonalds Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2250 words

McDonalds - Essay Example Subsequent initiatives included a breakfast menu available nationwide, with the introduction of the Egg McMuffin in 1973. Ronald McDonald was first seen in a television appearance in 1963, and has since become the ubiquitous company representative and also ambassador of charity involvement in the form of Ronald McDonald House, which was established in 1974 as a key element of the company's philanthropic community involvement. The Happy Meal was introduced in 1979, which pioneered the promotional concept of marketing to children by giving away toys and games with meal purchases. This concept has since been adopted by all major burger chains, and has evolved into a significant promotional and tie-in tool for partnerships with major entertainment companies and events. Having created the promotional toy tool with the introduction of Happy Meals in 1976, McDonald's is the leader in toy-based promotions in both foodservice and across all industries. (www.datamonitor.com) McDonald's suffered from a series of strategic blunders and a deteriorating public image in the mid-1990s. These slips included the launch of the low-fat McLean Deluxe sandwich, which was very poorly received, and the launch of the adult-targeted Arch Deluxe sandwich, which did not win consumer acceptance, whilst operating margins were negatively impacted by heavy couponing; The Campaign 55 promotion, a US$0.55 sandwich offer subject to a variety of confusing conditions, proved too difficult and was pulled. In an attempt to find growth opportunities outside of the saturated burgers segment, McDonald's took a step towards diversification in 1998, when it purchased Latin American fast food chain Chipotle, and then in 1999 with the acquisition of Ohio-based pizza chain Donato's Pizza. In the same year, the company announced its intention to purchase the bankrupt Boston Market chain of restaurants that specialized in meal replacement and limited FSR. The sale was approved in 2000, and constituted McDonald's first major acquisition outside of its QSR stronghold. In response to continuing criticism regarding its foods' nutritional content and to broaden its appeal to health conscious consumers, McDonald's has added a variety of healthier meal options, including premium salads and fresh fruit. The company discontinued its "supersize" menu items in 2004, and in 2006, McDonald's was the first fast food restaurant to post nutritional information on the packaging of each of its food items. The new packaging will use bar charts and icons to detail five basic nutritional elements - calories, protein, fat, carbohydrates and sodium. Competitive Positioning McDonald's is by far the leading fast food burger chain in the US, with nearly a 45% market share in foodservice. The company does, however, face strong competition, like other foodservice operators, but its ever growing market penetration, new product innovation and strong advertising backing helped the company see a consecutive value share increase between 2000 and 2005. The reach of the McDonald's brand has posed growth challenges in recent years, as saturation presents limits to opportunities for unit growth in the US, the company's main market. The company initially turned to a strategy of diversification, evident in its acquisitions of Chipotle

War and the media (focusing on the First Gulf War) Essay

War and the media (focusing on the First Gulf War) - Essay Example It is believed that although the main cause of the war was a very ancient conflict of Persians and Arabs. At that time and moment there was a great social and revolutionary change that was occurring in Iran. There was a whole lot of establishment of religious leadership. The reforms that were occurring in Iran were of quite a serious nature. The reforms were both social and political. Saddam Hussein judged the fact that this conflict would put Iran in a weaker position and hence make it easier for the Iraqi soldiers to get hold of the situation and thus invade Iran. The master mind behind this war was Saddam Hussein who believed, that if they attacked the Iranian at this point and time of conflict and turmoil, they will not be able to counter attack and hence face quite a lot of issues with their own security. He considered as the best time for the Iraqis to take over and establish their own supremacy over the whole area. They believed this as the most opportune moment. There was als o a fear of loss of power that had driven Saddam Hussein to consider the attacks. He believed that the Shiite uprising in Iran can ultimately affect the people living in Iraq too. Iraq has a dominant Shiite population and hence he feared that the Shiite Iraqis might feel motivated and rise against the Sunni establishment. It was this fear and the will to become the leader in the region that Saddam Hussein leapt into war. The reason that Saddam Hussein also felt fearless and jumped into war was that they had the support of Americans as well. Iran was undergoing a complete religious transformation and they had always considered Americans as the great Satan. They had declared openly their anti US feelings. This was what fueled the US and they sided with Iraq in this war to terrorize Iran and take control of it. Also, after the First World War , there was a demarcation that was made between the countries. The continued border disputes within both the countries also fueled the incident. If we consider the role of media, media has always been in the hands of those who are in power. In this case it was America who was quite at much stake. They had freshly lost a battle in Vietnam, which despite being a prolonged war turned out to be a gift of deaths alone for the Americans. It was highly important for them that they get a good name and reputation for themselves. Therefore, in this case they favored the Iraqi. The Iranians were very openly against the Americans and therefore, to be able to have their own say and hold in the Middle East and the Arabian Gulf they sided with Iraqis. Iraqis had the worst fear in the form of their own Shiite population who might rise up against them as they attacked the Iranians, whose majority population was Shiite. This was what made the war more of name saving game for the Americans. They very publicly showed their support for the Iraqis and provided them with help and guidance so as to be able to overcome Iran. The first two years of t he war proved to be difficult for Iran as they had a very weak army , and which had been further weakened by the constant uprising that was occurring in their state. They could do little to protect themselves, with the continuous infiltrations of the Mullahs in the army. Once they had been able to regain a bit of their control over the army their attack had turn to offensive instead of a defensive one. America just to prove that they were

Strategy enter mode Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

Strategy enter mode - Essay Example However, failures in regard to these plans cannot be avoided, especially if the enter mode chosen is inappropriate for the target market involved. The entry in a foreign market can be a risky initiative, especially when the global market is not stable. However, choosing an appropriate enter mode can help to reduce the risks involved in such plans. The enter modes available to firms that aim to enter a foreign market are discussed in this paper. The literature developed in this field has been reviewed so that all aspects of this study’s subject are adequately explained. Moreover, five studies have been selected and are presented separately for highlighting important points of the issues under discussion. It is proved that a variety of entry modes is available to firms that wish to internationalize their activities. Still, not all these modes can be equally effective; indeed, the risks involved in the target market can be many. It should be also noted that the benefits from entering a foreign market may not be clear in the short term. For this reason, a firm trying to expand its operations globally should have alternative strategies available in case that the enter mode initially chosen is proved faulty. When trying to enter a foreign market, a variety of criteria is used in order to decide which enter mode is most appropriate. The resources available for supporting this project can highly influence the relevant decision (Levi 2006). On the other hand, the experience acquired through similar initiatives in the past can help a firm to choose an appropriate strategy for entering a foreign market (Levi 2006). In addition, when trying to entering a foreign market a firm is expected to face a variety of forces (Albaum and Duerr 2008). Managing these forces can be extremely difficult depending on the firm’s market position and its objectives (Albaum and Duerr 2008). For this reason, a firm

PERFORMANCE EVALUATION Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

PERFORMANCE EVALUATION - Essay Example These are not only concerning financial dealings but also about the readiness of an individual to own up actions, learn from mistakes and strive for improvement. Here again, supervisor can give a value judgment. Format devised above relies substantially upon measurable parameters on the one hand and upon the assessment of supervisor which itself has a direct relationship with the measurable parameters, thus eliminating subjectivity to a large extent. Greater emphasis is laid on behavioral aspects of an employee compared to traits since the former has a direct and greater bearing upon the success of the individual and his team in achieving the performance targets. Based on the elements of evaluation, in association with the line supervisor concerned, I will develop format for periodical recording of performance. These records are to be maintained by the supervisor for on-going review and also overall review at the time of annual assessment. For annual assessment, I will devise a separate format (again based on the same elements of evaluation) which will be filled-in by the supervisor. This format will have not only the supervisor’s assessment but also a record of his interaction with the employee on the assessment itself and the employee’s own remarks. This will commit the employee for owning up his shortfalls (if any) and spur him to greater efforts in areas of deficiency. Thus, I will work towards an open and transparent system of appraisal, which will meet the due process of assessment. Team performance appraisals are not very relevant in the sales department of an auto company unless the sales persons are grouped as teams. Assuming that Luxurion Auto has teams of salesmen (divided on some basis like a territory or a market segment) and group targets are set for such teams, I will certainly create team performance appraisal